By: The Caffeinated Gear Team
After months of intensive testing and countless shots pulled, we’re finally sharing our comprehensive review of the Sage Dual Boiler. For our readers outside Europe, you’ll know this as the Breville Dual Boiler, and trust us – this machine has been worth the wait.
We’ve put the current model through its paces – specifically the Sage Dual Boiler BES920UK – and we’re excited to share our findings from our extensive testing process.
Before we dive into our detailed analysis, let’s clear up a bit of brand confusion. Whilst these brilliant machines are manufactured by Breville Worldwide (based in Australia), you won’t find them under the Breville name in Europe. This is due to a trademark sale in the 1980s. Instead, European coffee enthusiasts will find these excellent machines branded as Sage, Sage Appliances, or Sage by Heston Blumenthal.
The Sage Dual Boiler stands as a flagship model in the world of home espresso machines, and we’ve been eager to put it through its paces for quite some time.
As coffee professionals, we test countless espresso machines each year, but sometimes certain gems require a more thorough, long-term evaluation than a typical two-week review period allows.
While we’ve extensively tested the Sage Oracle and compiled our comprehensive
the Dual Boiler demanded a different approach.
Having spent considerable time with the
and other models in the Sage lineup, we knew the Dual Boiler deserved more than just a brief testing period.
That’s why we made the decision to purchase this machine outright for our test kitchen. This investment allows us to conduct extensive testing, perform modifications, and provide you with the most thorough, real-world insights possible.
In the coming months, we’ll be documenting various modifications and improvements, sharing our findings through detailed blog posts and video tutorials. This hands-on approach ensures we can offer you genuine, long-term insights into what many consider to be one of the finest home espresso machines available.
Our comprehensive reviews at Caffeinated Gear often dive deep into the technical details, which we know some coffee enthusiasts love.
However, if you’re looking for the quick scoop on this exceptional machine, here’s what you need to know right away.
If you’re searching for a home barista espresso machine (not a bean-to-cup), this is our top recommendation.
For the features you get, the value is outstanding – particularly when you look at the grinder bundles.
Want to see the amazing bundle deals? Just click here to jump straight to our bundle analysis.
Our Professional Assessment:
After extensive testing in our coffee lab, we’ve concluded that the Sage Dual Boiler stands as possibly the most complete espresso machine we’ve ever worked with.
What makes this machine truly special is its remarkable versatility. Whether you’re just starting your home barista journey or you’re an experienced coffee craftsperson, this machine delivers exceptional results.
The genius lies in its design philosophy – wonderfully straightforward for beginners, yet packed with advanced features that experienced baristas can explore as their skills grow. Rather than starting with a basic machine and upgrading later, this could be your first and last espresso machine purchase.
The temperature stability is particularly impressive, removing one of the most common frustrations beginners face with entry-level machines. This stability creates a solid foundation for learning and experimentation.
Key Features and Benefits:
And this list barely scratches the surface of what this machine can do. The most remarkable part? It’s one of the most affordable dual boiler machines available.
Potential Drawbacks?
After weeks of rigorous testing, we’ve struggled to find any significant flaws. Our team prides itself on thorough, honest reviews, and we always highlight areas for improvement. With the Sage Dual Boiler, however, we’re genuinely impressed by its completeness.
We should mention our machine has an interesting history – it’s over 6 years old with roughly 1,100 shots pulled. We specifically chose this well-used model for our testing to explore its durability and potential modifications.
The only minor consideration worth noting isn’t specific to Sage – it’s the 15-minute auto-off feature required by this EC directive. However, with proper use of the auto-on function, this can actually be an environmental benefit.
Comparing this machine to others requires careful context. Yes, it’s larger than the Bambino Plus and takes longer to heat up than the Barista Pro. It’s also pricier than entry-level Sage machines. But these comparisons miss the point – the Dual Boiler belongs in a different class entirely.
When measured against other dual boiler machines, it often comes out ahead in warm-up time, size, and cost. Most impressively, its temperature stability matches that of the La Marzocco GS3, which costs around £6,000!
After extensive testing and research, we’ve found remarkably few long-term reliability concerns with this machine.
While scrolling through Amazon reviews reveals mostly positive feedback, you’ll naturally find some negative experiences – as you would with any espresso machine.
One notable issue that’s sparked discussion is the “valve error” during descaling.
We’ll explore this in detail later, but the key takeaway is simple: prevent scale buildup in the first place.
The problem typically stems from chunks of limescale breaking loose during descaling, which can jam the valves.
This reinforces why proper maintenance is crucial – replace your filter regularly based on water hardness and stay on top of descaling schedules.
Better yet, if you live in a hard water area, consider using filtered water instead of tap water.
This advice applies to all espresso machines – our technicians consistently identify scale as the primary cause of damage.
Another occasional point of discussion is the plastic group collar insert.
For new machines, this shouldn’t be a worry – it’s an inexpensive part that typically lasts several years.
If you’re considering a reconditioned unit, we recommend confirming this part has been replaced – more on buying reconditioned machines later.
For new Sage Dual Boiler purchases, we believe there’s little cause for concern.
The two-year warranty provides solid protection, and with proper care, these machines prove remarkably reliable.
Our advice? Schedule a service just before or after the warranty expires.
This maintenance check should cover replacement of standard components like O-rings, preventing minor wear issues from escalating into major problems.
We’ve noticed that many reported issues outside warranty often trace back to small, preventable problems – like a worn O-ring causing internal leaks that lead to bigger complications.
Annual servicing (or more frequent for heavy use) after the initial maintenance check should keep your machine running smoothly.
In essence, our hands-on experience and thorough research confirm that the Sage Dual Boiler offers exceptional value for its price point.
Before diving deeper into our detailed review, we want to ensure this machine truly matches your needs – because despite its excellence, it’s not for everyone.
First and foremost, understand that this is a traditional espresso machine designed for home baristas – it requires genuine skill to operate effectively.
Some coffee enthusiasts might look at the Sage Oracle and Oracle Touch, assume they represent the pinnacle of Sage’s range, and view the Dual Boiler as a mid-range compromise.
This isn’t quite right – while the Oracle machines share core components with the Dual Boiler (dual boilers, triple heating system), they serve a fundamentally different purpose.
Being a home barista involves more than just buying equipment – it’s a hobby requiring dedication to master the art of espresso making.
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If you’re seeking a simple, press-and-go solution without diving into the world of coffee crafting, you might be better suited to a bean-to-cup machine.
Sage addresses this market with their Oracle range, including their touch-screen model, the “Oracle Touch“.
These machines inherit the Dual Boiler’s core technology but incorporate automated barista skills, eliminating the learning curve.
For those interested in bean-to-cup machines but working with a tighter budget, plenty of standard options exist at lower price points.
Let’s clarify what we mean by “standard”.
Conventional bean-to-cup machines prioritise convenience over absolute quality – which suits many users perfectly well.
The Oracle machines uniquely bridge this gap, delivering traditional machine quality with bean-to-cup convenience, though at a premium price point.
For more detailed information about bean-to-cup options, check out our comprehensive guides:
Now, let’s delve deeper into our detailed review.
Remember – whichever machine you choose, exceptional coffee demands quality beans.
Our test kitchen regularly experiments with different roasts and blends to help you find your perfect match.
For newcomers to home espresso, we typically recommend starting with chocolate or nutty flavour profiles – they’re more forgiving to dial in and tend to please most palates.
We appreciate that level of dedication – it’s exactly the kind of attention to detail we pride ourselves on at Caffeinated Gear.
As our team of baristas discovered, Sage (known as Breville outside the UK) has a refreshing approach to espresso machine design.
Rather than following industry conventions, they’ve reimagined every aspect of the machine from the ground up, questioning and improving each element.
The Dual Boiler showcases this innovative thinking through features that enhance both coffee quality and user experience.
Some innovations, like precise temperature control and adjustable pre-infusion, directly impact your coffee’s taste.
Others might seem minor but make a world of difference in daily use.
Take the built-in cable storage, for instance.
After testing dozens of machines with messy cable management, this simple solution impressed our whole team.
The clever locking wheel system is another brilliant touch.
Despite being a substantial machine (especially with a full water tank), you can effortlessly move it by simply turning a dial – a feature we wish was standard on all dual boiler machines.
The magnetic tamper holder is pure genius.
No more misplaced tampers – unless you forget to return it to its designated spot, of course!
We particularly love the dual-access water tank design.
Whether you prefer topping up from above (with its smooth-opening flap) or removing the tank from behind, you’ve got options.
The “Empty Me” indicator on the drip tray might sound basic, but you’d be surprised how many premium machines lack this simple yet essential feature.
The steam lever control is a professional touch we particularly appreciate.
While common in commercial settings, this design is rare in home machines – yet it offers superior control and responsiveness compared to traditional knobs.
The auto-on function is brilliant for morning coffee workflows.
Imagine walking into your kitchen to find the machine perfectly heated and ready to brew – it’s a game-changing feature that’s surprisingly uncommon in this category.
The hidden storage tray behind the drip tray is another thoughtful addition, keeping your spare baskets and cleaning tools neatly organised and accessible.
The LCD interface makes customisation remarkably straightforward.
Whether you’re adjusting brew temperature, fine-tuning pre-infusion settings, or programming shot volumes, everything is intuitive and accessible.
After months of testing, our team struggled to find any obvious improvements to suggest.
It’s clear that Sage’s designers have thought through every aspect of the user experience, creating a machine that consistently anticipates and meets the needs of home baristas.
While Sage’s attention to detail impressed us with the smaller features, their true innovation shines through in the groundbreaking engineering of the Sage Dual Boiler.
The development of this machine wasn’t a quick endeavour—it took the team, led by Phil McKnight at Breville, three and a half years of dedicated research and development. They approached this as a “blue sky project”, throwing out conventional limitations and starting fresh.
What caught our attention was their unconventional approach to design. Rather than following the typical path of improving upon existing domestic machines, they set their sights higher. Their ambitious goal of bringing genuine café-quality espresso into home kitchens led them to study commercial equipment instead of household machines.
The result? They created something that stands out not just in the domestic market, but even amongst commercial machines. Their innovative design delivers exceptional temperature stability at a fraction of the typical cost.
At its core, this masterpiece of engineering houses several key components: a substantial 950ml steam boiler, a precision PID-controlled 450ml brew boiler, an inventive heat exchanger, and a PID-controlled heated group.
This combination breaks the traditional mould of espresso machine design. Typically, manufacturers opt for either dual boilers or a heat exchanger system—rarely both.
For those new to espresso mechanics, a heat exchanger is essentially a pipe running through the steam boiler, using the boiler’s heat to warm the brewing water.
While dual boilers typically eliminate the need for a heat exchanger, Sage’s engineers recognised an opportunity. By incorporating a relatively inexpensive heat exchanger pipe, they could harness the steam boiler’s heat to pre-warm water entering the brew boiler, preventing thermal shock from cold water intake.
Much like their thoughtful design touches—the cable tidy and locking wheel—this solution seems remarkably straightforward once you understand it. Yet it’s precisely this kind of practical innovation that sets
Simply having a PID controller doesn’t guarantee exceptional temperature precision. While you can install a PID on machines like the Gaggia Classic or Rancilio Silvia, it won’t match the remarkable stability that comes from the sophisticated combination of technology in the Dual Boiler. Even Sage’s entry-level machines—the Bambino Plus, Duo Temp Pro, Barista Express, and Barista Pro—include PID controllers, but they can’t achieve the same level of precision.
The engineering brilliance doesn’t end with temperature control. Sage’s innovation in pump control sets this machine apart.
A quick note for clarity: In the UK, we know the brand as Sage Appliances, while most other countries know it as Breville. This naming difference stems from the 1980s when they sold the European brand rights, which is why we have a different Breville here.
The Dual Boiler uses the Ulka EX5, a standard 15-bar pump found in various espresso machines. However, in true Sage fashion, they went several steps further. They engineered and patented a revolutionary pump control system—think of it as a sophisticated dimmer switch for your espresso. This innovation lets you fine-tune both pre-infusion duration and pressure.
Using the LCD screen, you can adjust pre-infusion time anywhere from zero to an impressive 90 seconds (access this by holding the up and down arrows). But that’s not all—you can also modify pre-infusion power and even control it manually using the “manual” button.
This level of control transforms your brewing possibilities beyond the traditional approach of minimal pre-infusion and 25-30 second shot times. Perhaps most impressively, it allows you to create “Slayer-style” shots without any modifications. For context, a Slayer espresso machine—known for its unique pump pressure control—costs around £10,000.
With the Dual Boiler’s pressure control capabilities, you’re free to experiment beyond conventional espresso parameters. Here’s our tried-and-tested method for pulling remarkable Slayer-style shots:
For those interested in diving deeper, flow profiling is possible with a scale that provides flow data, like the Acaia Lunar. A simple, reversible modification allows pump pressure control via the hot water knob.
We’ve discovered you can achieve precise pressure control even without modifications by carefully opening the hot water valve during extraction. The only trade-off is some water wastage.
If this sounds overwhelming, don’t worry—these are advanced features waiting for when you’re ready to explore them.
Temperature precision is another standout feature. The machine incorporates a heating element in the group head, plus separate temperature sensors in both the group and brew boiler. Two PID controllers work in harmony with these sensors, ensuring your chosen brew temperature is delivered with remarkable accuracy.
This temperature stability is a game-changer. When you set the brew temperature to 96°C for your light roast beans, you can trust you’re getting exactly that—a level of precision unmatched until you venture into machines costing two or three times as much.
While pulling the perfect espresso shot involves multiple variables, nailing the brew temperature is crucial. With the Dual Boiler’s temperature management system, you’ve got this critical factor sorted.
After conducting extensive testing and daily use in our coffee lab, we’ve discovered something remarkable about the Sage Dual Boiler: it’s a hidden gem in the UK espresso machine market.
Our team of certified baristas has identified two main reasons why this exceptional machine often flies under the radar:
Let’s address the aesthetic aspect first.
The Sage Dual Boiler breaks from traditional espresso machine design conventions.
Most coffee enthusiasts shopping for a dual boiler machine expect something more traditional, like this:
Many experienced home baristas are accustomed to the classic Italian aesthetic (though interestingly, some brands like Profitec and ECM are actually German) with their iconic E61 group heads.
The Sage Dual Boiler takes a different approach, sharing design DNA with its Sage siblings.
We’ve found this modern aesthetic can be quite divisive in the coffee community.
For many households, this contemporary design is actually a significant advantage.
If you share your kitchen with someone who doesn’t share your coffee obsession (as several members of our team do), they might prefer this sleek, understated look over a machine that dominates the worktop like a chrome-plated spacecraft.
Sage has deliberately crafted their machines to complement modern kitchens.
While some coffee purists might prefer the traditional look, we’ve grown to appreciate the Sage’s clean, contemporary aesthetic.
The second factor – the seemingly too-good-to-be-true price point – has raised eyebrows in the coffee community.
Here’s a dual boiler machine with PID temperature control, a heated group head, and numerous premium features, priced similarly to entry-level heat exchanger machines.
It’s rather like finding a luxury car with all the bells and whistles at a mid-range family car price.
The good news is that the coffee community has largely come around, with many respected experts now acknowledging the machine’s outstanding value proposition.
In our experience testing and maintaining espresso machines, we’ve learned that every model will eventually need some maintenance.
The Sage Dual Boiler has now been on the market for a decade, giving us plenty of real-world data about its longevity and maintenance needs.
For an extensive discussion on this topic:
Our research and hands-on experience show that most maintenance issues are standard for any espresso machine.
If you’re handy with tools, many repairs are quite manageable as DIY projects.
Alternatively, we recommend finding a local independent espresso machine technician.
The official UK repair service is Coffee Classics, Sage’s recommended provider, though their minimum service charges might be excessive for simple maintenance like O-ring replacement.
Most common maintenance items include replacing rubber seals and O-rings – standard, affordable parts that are straightforward to replace.
We recommend replacing the group head seal and boiler O-rings every couple of years as preventive maintenance.
After about five years, the solenoid valves might develop a metallic buzzing sound, but again, this is a relatively simple and affordable fix.
While any espresso machine can develop serious issues, our research and consultation with technicians suggest the Sage Dual Boiler is no more prone to major problems than other dual boiler machines.
Understanding the Valve Error
We’ve investigated reports of the notorious “Valv Error” message extensively.
Through discussions with both Sage’s technical team and independent engineers, we’ve identified the primary cause: large limescale deposits disrupting the internal valves.
This typically occurs when accumulated limescale breaks loose in chunks, either from physical movement or aggressive descaling solutions.
Our advice: maintain your water filter schedule based on your local water hardness and follow the recommended descaling intervals.
With proper maintenance, this issue is highly preventable.
If you do encounter this error, consult this guide for resolution steps.
Group Head Collar Considerations
The plastic group collar insert has generated some discussion in the coffee community.
While we’ve encountered occasional complaints about this component, our investigation suggests these issues often stem from reconditioned machines.
The part itself is quite robust and typically wouldn’t require replacement within the first few years of normal use.
We believe some of these reports come from refurbished machines where this component was overlooked during reconditioning.
If you do experience water leakage around the group head that persists after replacing the seal, the collar might need attention.
While replacing it requires removing the brew boiler – a more involved job – it’s still quite manageable for those comfortable with basic repairs.
Based on our research, this isn’t a widespread issue and shouldn’t be a major concern for prospective buyers.
The current UK version of the Sage Dual Boiler includes a 15-minute auto-shutdown feature.
Different versions of the bes920UK exist, so second-hand or reconditioned machines might not have this function.
While initially it might seem inconvenient, we’ve come to appreciate this energy-saving feature.
Without it, it’s all too easy to leave the machine running unnecessarily.
This auto-off feature stems from an EU directive based on some striking statistics: if just 25% of European coffee machine owners left their machines on for an extra hour daily, it would consume the annual output of Finland’s Loviisa nuclear power plant!
As coffee professionals who care about sustainability, we view this as a reasonable compromise.
Our team has adapted by using the auto-on feature strategically, scheduling it around our coffee routines.
Even when timing doesn’t align perfectly, the brief 6-minute warm-up time is a small price to pay for energy efficiency.
After extensive testing and hands-on experience with this impressive machine, we’re confident in sharing our professional assessment. The real question is: would this be the right investment for your coffee journey?
In our extensive experience as professional baristas and coffee experts, we’ve found the Sage Dual Boiler to be remarkably versatile. It’s a machine that brilliantly serves both newcomers and seasoned home baristas alike.
We often hear from readers who can afford the Sage Dual Boiler but wonder if they should ‘earn their stripes’ with a simpler machine first. Many assume they should start with a basic model and work their way up.
Our testing and experience tell us otherwise. We’ve discovered that beginners might actually find more success starting with the Sage Dual Boiler than with any of the Sage espresso machines in the entry-level range.
Here’s why: crafting the perfect espresso involves juggling multiple variables – from grinding to tamping to dosing. The Sage Dual Boiler’s exceptional temperature stability removes one crucial variable from the equation, making your learning curve smoother.
We’d only recommend considering a more basic machine if budget is your primary concern. If you can comfortably invest in the Sage Dual Boiler, our professional opinion is that you absolutely should.
Don’t let the advanced features put you off. Our experience shows that many owners start with the basics and gradually explore the more sophisticated functions as their skills develop.
For those currently using entry-level single boiler or thermoblock machines, we strongly recommend considering the Sage Dual Boiler for your upgrade path, particularly if you’re weighing up a heat exchanger machine as your next step.
Before making your final decision, you might find these comprehensive guides helpful:
As coffee professionals, we can’t stress enough how crucial your grinder choice is. When pairing a grinder with the Sage Dual Boiler, you’ll want to consider several options carefully.
For optimal results, we recommend pairing this machine with premium grinders like the Eureka Mignon series (Specialita, Oro, Libra, or XL), select Baratza models (Sette 270, Forte), the Niche Zero or Duo, or one of the DF grinders.
For those wanting a practical starting point, the Smart Grinder Pro offers remarkable value, especially when purchased in the Dynamic Duo bundle from Sage. This package includes both the Dual Boiler and Smart Grinder Pro for just £50 more than the machine alone – outstanding value for a £210 grinder.
While the Smart Grinder Pro isn’t the ultimate pairing for the Dual Boiler, our testing confirms it’s more than capable as a starter grinder, especially at the bundle price point.
We’ve discovered some exceptional bundle deals from Lancashire-based roaster Clumsy Goat that deserve attention:
This bundle caught our attention – it pairs the Dual Boiler with the highly capable Eureka Mignon Specialita at a price below the Dual Boiler’s RRP. While this seems almost too good to be true, we can confirm Clumsy Goat’s solid reputation in the industry. We suspect these might be limited-time offers to clear stock.
They’re currently offering similar outstanding deals with the Eureka Oro, Mignon XL and other premium grinders. See their full range here:
For more detailed grinder information, check out our comprehensive guides:
Our practical advice? If you’re investing in the Sage Dual Boiler, seriously consider the Dynamic Duo bundle. Even if you plan to upgrade the grinder later, the Smart Grinder Pro at this price point makes perfect sense.
You could start your espresso journey with the Smart Grinder Pro and upgrade when ready, or purchase the bundle and either sell the grinder (they hold their value well due to frequent stock shortages) or repurpose it for filter coffee brewing.
Based on our market analysis, a new, unused Smart Grinder Pro typically sells quickly at near RRP, especially during stock shortages. This could offset the cost of your preferred grinder upgrade.
If you enjoy both espresso and filter coffee, we’d actually recommend keeping the Smart Grinder Pro for your filter coffee needs. Our testing shows it excels at switching between grind settings, easily jumping between cafetière and moka pot grind sizes. Using separate grinders for espresso and filter coffee eliminates the hassle of constantly re-dialling your espresso settings.
As your trusted coffee experts, we’ve noticed a recurring question in the community about the future of the Sage/Breville Dual Boiler.
Here’s the definitive answer: The Dual Boiler is absolutely not being discontinued.
Through our industry connections and direct communication with Sage Appliances, we can confidently confirm that there are no plans to discontinue this exceptional espresso machine.
The confusion seems to have stemmed from temporary stock shortages, particularly in the United States, during the recent supply chain disruptions.
Our team has closely monitored availability across different markets. In the UK, while the Dual Boiler has maintained relatively stable stock levels at Sage Appliances and Amazon, other popular models like the Bambino Plus and Smart Grinder Pro have experienced more significant supply constraints.
We’re particularly pleased about the machine’s continued production, as it remains one of our most recommended prosumer espresso machines for serious home baristas.
Stay connected with the Caffeinated Gear team for more expert insights and detailed reviews of premium coffee equipment.
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