Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill Review: Is This Smart Grill Worth It?

The Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill is a premium countertop appliance designed for consistent, high-quality grilling results. Unlike traditional grills, its innovative Element IQ technology actively monitors and adjusts heat output, eliminating temperature fluctuations that often lead to uneven cooking. This smart feature ensures perfectly seared steaks, evenly toasted sandwiches, and everything in between, consistently delivering delicious results. Beyond its impressive heat control, the BGR820XL boasts remarkable versatility.With removable and fully-opening plates, adjustable height settings, and multiple cooking modes including low, panini, and sear, this grill adapts to a wide array of culinary needs. The dishwasher-safe plates simplify cleaning, and an integrated drip tray further streamlines the post-cooking process. This combination of intelligent features and practical design makes the Breville BGR820XL a compelling option for home cooks seeking both convenience and superior performance. Discover if this smart grill is worth the investment in our comprehensive review.

Pros And Cons

Breville Smart Grill
  • Better heat control and recovery with embedded elements
  • Removable plates open the grill for BBQ mode
  • Element IQ technology detects temperature drops and injects more heat for rapid recovery
  • Removable, dishwasher-safe plates
  • Opens flat to BBQ mode
  • Variable temperature control with low, panini, and sear modes
  • Six adjustable height settings
  • Integrated removable drip tray
  • Countertop grills experience a temperature drop when cold ingredients are added; most can't recover quickly from this heat loss

Read more: Cuisinart Electric Grill: Top 9 Models Reviewed

Superior Heat Control and Recovery

The Breville Smart Grill boasts impressive heat control and recovery thanks to its embedded heating elements. Unlike traditional countertop grills that experience a significant temperature drop when cold food is added, the Breville Smart Grill utilizes Element IQ technology. This smart technology detects temperature fluctuations and instantly adjusts the heat output, ensuring consistent cooking temperatures.

Close-up of the Breville Smart Grill's embedded heating elements.
Close-up of the Breville Smart Grill's embedded heating elements.

This rapid recovery prevents uneven cooking and tough meat. It maintains the desired temperature, leading to more efficient and better-quality results compared to other models. This intelligent feature enhances the overall cooking experience.

Visual representation of temperature drop in other countertop grills.
Visual representation of temperature drop in other countertop grills.

This advanced technology ensures food cooks evenly and efficiently, from perfectly seared steaks to evenly toasted sandwiches. Say goodbye to frustrating temperature fluctuations and hello to consistent, delicious results every time.

Graphical display of the Element IQ technology in action.
Graphical display of the Element IQ technology in action.

Versatile Cooking Modes and Features

The Breville Smart Grill offers unparalleled versatility. Its removable plates can be easily taken off for cleaning and open completely, transforming the grill into a full-fledged BBQ. This opens up possibilities for various cooking styles.

The grill opening to BBQ mode.
The grill opening to BBQ mode.

With six adjustable height settings, you can cook diverse foods to perfection. The grill features low, panini, and sear modes, catering to various culinary preferences. It offers exceptional flexibility in preparing diverse dishes.

The removable drip tray.
The removable drip tray.

Beyond cooking versatility, the Breville Smart Grill includes an integrated drip tray for easy cleanup, further simplifying the grilling process. It’s a combination of advanced features and smart design which makes the product stand out from others

Specifications and Ease of Use

The Breville BGR820XL operates on 110-120 volts and boasts 180 watts of power. Its temperature range is 310-450°F, offering precise control for a variety of cooking needs. The variable temperature control allows for accurate temperature adjustments based on the specific dish and desired outcome.

The grill's specifications displayed on screen.
The grill's specifications displayed on screen.

The dishwasher-safe plates are not only convenient but also contribute to maintaining hygiene and easy cleaning. The grill's design prioritizes ease of use and efficient cleaning, minimizing post-cooking hassle.

Close-up of the removable plates.
Close-up of the removable plates.

The integrated features and smart technology combine to provide a user-friendly, high-performance experience. Its easy-to-clean design and straightforward operation makes the Breville Smart Grill an excellent choice for both casual and serious cooks.

Highlighting the ease of cleaning.
Highlighting the ease of cleaning.

Final Verdict

The Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill is a premium countertop grill that excels in heat control, versatility, and ease of use. Its Element IQ technology sets it apart, ensuring consistently cooked food without temperature fluctuations. The combination of smart features and practical design makes it a worthwhile investment.

Overall shot of the Breville Smart Grill.
Overall shot of the Breville Smart Grill.

While the price point might be higher than some basic countertop grills, the improved cooking performance, convenience, and long-term value justify the cost. Its versatile cooking capabilities, from BBQ to panini, make it a versatile addition to any kitchen.

Shot emphasizing the quality and design.
Shot emphasizing the quality and design.

Overall, the Breville Smart Grill is a fantastic option for those seeking a superior grilling experience without the space requirements of a large outdoor grill. If you value consistent cooking and are willing to invest in quality, this grill won't disappoint.

Shot highlighting the speed and ease of use.
Shot highlighting the speed and ease of use.