Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

As a coffee enthusiast, I’ve always wanted to replicate the experience of a high-end coffee shop from the comfort of my own home. After considering various machines and weighing the pros and cons of different features, I decided to invest in the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL. This espresso machine promised precision, power, and the ability to brew and steam simultaneously — all features I was eager to explore. After months of use, I’ve gathered my thoughts and am excited to share my Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL review, including why I believe it has changed the way I make coffee at home.

First Impressions of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

From the moment I unboxed the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, I could tell that this was a serious machine. It has a solid, well-constructed feel, with its sleek stainless steel body and a clean, modern design that makes it look as though it belongs in a professional café. Weighing about 30 pounds, this is a machine that demands attention, but it’s also sturdy and solid, so there’s no concern about it tipping over or feeling cheap. The brushed metal finish and intuitive controls give it a polished, high-end look that fits perfectly into my kitchen.

When I set it up for the first time, I appreciated the machine's clear and simple instructions, making it easy to get started. The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL features a large 84-ounce water tank and a spacious drip tray, so I didn’t have to worry about constantly refilling or cleaning it.

Features of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL: A Step Above the Rest

One of the features that drew me to the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL was the dual boiler system. Unlike single boiler machines that require you to wait for the temperature to adjust between brewing and steaming, this system allows you to do both simultaneously. The dual boiler system ensures that you get a consistent espresso shot while also being able to froth milk for your lattes or cappuccinos without any delay.

The PID temperature control is another standout feature of this machine. It allows you to dial in the water temperature to an exact degree, ensuring that you get the best extraction possible for your espresso. For someone like me who is very particular about my coffee, this feature was a game-changer. I was able to adjust the temperature to suit different coffee beans and achieve a more consistent and flavorful shot each time.

Moreover, the Pre-infusion function is another reason I fell in love with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL. The pre-infusion slowly wets the coffee grounds before the full extraction, resulting in a more even extraction, which enhances the flavor and crema of the espresso.

The Brewing Experience with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL has been an absolute joy to brew with. One of the first things I noticed was the consistency in the shots. The temperature control really makes a difference in the extraction process, and the machine’s ability to maintain a stable temperature throughout the brewing cycle is impressive. This results in a much smoother, richer espresso shot than what I’ve been able to achieve with previous machines.

I also found that the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL was incredibly forgiving when it came to dialing in the grind size, which was a pleasant surprise. Even when I wasn’t perfectly precise with the grind, the machine still produced great shots. The shot timer was especially helpful in ensuring that I didn’t over-extract or under-extract my shots.

What really sets the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL apart, though, is its Auto Shot functionality, which allows you to program a preset shot time. This feature helped me achieve more consistency in the shots I pulled and eliminated some of the guesswork that typically comes with manual espresso machines.

Steaming Milk with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

As someone who loves lattes and cappuccinos, the steam wand on the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL was another feature that impressed me. The steam pressure is robust and consistent, and the steam wand’s 360-degree rotation made it easy to position it however I needed for frothing. With a bit of practice, I was able to achieve the perfect microfoam for my lattes.

The milk frothing experience on the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is smooth and efficient. I was able to froth milk in seconds, and the powerful steam pressure meant I could create silky, velvety foam without much effort. I didn’t experience any sputtering or uneven foam, which was a problem I’ve encountered with other espresso machines in the past.

Ease of Use and Customization Options on the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

When it comes to espresso machines, ease of use is a huge factor in my decision-making process. The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL really shines in this area. Even though it’s packed with advanced features, the user interface is clear and straightforward, which makes it easy to navigate. The LCD screen displays helpful information, like the temperature of both the brew and steam boilers, as well as a shot timer and the status of the water tank.

One of my favorite things about the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is how customizable it is. I can adjust the brew temperature, steam temperature, shot volume, and even pre-infusion time to suit my preferences. This allows me to experiment and perfect my shots, ensuring that I’m getting the best possible espresso every time.

For someone new to the world of espresso, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL also includes several preset options that help take the guesswork out of the process. For example, it offers volumetric shot control, meaning you can set the machine to pull a specific amount of espresso each time. This makes it easier for a beginner to get started without needing to measure everything precisely.

Cleaning and Maintenance of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

Maintaining the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is straightforward. The machine has a clean-me indicator that lets you know when it’s time for maintenance, which makes it easy to stay on top of things. The drip tray and water reservoir are both easy to remove and clean, and the auto-purge feature for the steam wand helps prevent milk residue buildup after each use.

Additionally, the descaling process is simple, with the machine prompting you when it’s time to descale, which helps maintain optimal performance. It’s not something I have to do often, but it’s good to know that the machine takes care of reminding me when necessary.

Drawbacks of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

While I’ve generally been impressed with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, no machine is without its drawbacks. One issue I encountered was the size. At 30 pounds and with a large footprint, the machine takes up quite a bit of counter space, which might not be ideal for people with smaller kitchens. Additionally, because of the dual boiler system, the machine does require a bit of a learning curve to fully understand the nuances of temperature control and shot timing. But once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature.

Another potential drawback is the price. The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is on the higher end of the spectrum when it comes to espresso machines, and while I believe it’s worth the investment, it might not be the best choice for those who are just starting out with espresso or those on a tight budget.

Product Review Conclusion: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Worth It?

After months of use, I can confidently say that the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL has far exceeded my expectations. It combines precision, ease of use, and powerful features into one fantastic espresso machine. The ability to brew and steam simultaneously, coupled with precise temperature control, allows me to make café-quality drinks at home every day.

Despite a few minor drawbacks, such as its size and cost, I believe the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL offers exceptional value for anyone serious about espresso. If you’re looking for a machine that will elevate your home coffee-making experience and deliver consistently great results, this machine is absolutely worth considering. Whether you’re an experienced barista or a beginner, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL provides the tools and flexibility you need to create perfect espresso and milk-based drinks with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

1. What makes the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL different from other espresso machines?

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL stands out because of its dual boiler system, which allows you to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously. This feature eliminates the need to wait for the temperature to adjust between brewing and steaming, resulting in a more efficient and consistent coffee-making process. Additionally, its PID temperature control ensures precise brewing temperatures, allowing for better consistency and flavor.

2. How easy is it to use the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL for beginners?

While the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL offers advanced features like customizable temperature control and shot volume, it’s still relatively easy to use for beginners. The machine comes with preset options for brew times and shot volumes, so newcomers can start making espresso right away. Additionally, the clear LCD screen, intuitive controls, and programmable settings help simplify the process as you learn more about espresso making.

3. How do I clean the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?

Cleaning the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is straightforward. The machine has a clean-me indicator that reminds you when it’s time to clean or descale. The drip tray, water reservoir, and other removable parts are easy to clean, and the steam wand has an auto-purge function that helps prevent milk residue buildup after every use. Regular descaling and proper cleaning will help keep the machine in optimal condition.

4. What is the difference between the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL and the BES870XL?

The primary difference between the BES920XL and the BES870XL is that the BES920XL has a dual boiler system, which allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming. The BES870XL, on the other hand, has a single boiler, which means you have to wait for the temperature to adjust between brewing and steaming. The BES920XL also features more advanced customization options, such as PID temperature control, pre-infusion, and a shot clock, making it more suited for advanced users or those who want to fine-tune their espresso-making process.

5. Does the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL come with a built-in grinder?

No, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL does not come with a built-in grinder. However, it is compatible with separate coffee grinders, and it's recommended to use a high-quality burr grinder for the best espresso results. A good grinder is essential for achieving the right consistency in your coffee grounds, which impacts the overall quality of your espresso.

6. What type of coffee beans work best with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL works well with a variety of coffee beans, as long as they are freshly ground. For optimal results, use high-quality, freshly roasted beans and grind them right before brewing. The machine's adjustable temperature settings and pre-infusion function allow you to experiment with different types of beans, from light to dark roasts, and fine-tune the brewing process to get the best flavor.

7. Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL suitable for making lattes and cappuccinos?

Yes, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is ideal for making lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based espresso drinks. The machine features a powerful steam wand with 360-degree rotation, allowing you to easily froth milk and create microfoam. With the right technique, you can achieve velvety, smooth foam for your drinks.

8. How long does it take for the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL to heat up?

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL heats up relatively quickly. The dual boilers reach the desired temperatures for both brewing and steaming in about 10 minutes. The time may vary slightly depending on the temperature of the water and your room environment, but overall, it’s faster than single-boiler machines that require more time to adjust between brewing and steaming.

9. Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL easy to maintain?

Yes, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is easy to maintain. It has a clean-me indicator that lets you know when it’s time to clean or descale the machine. The removable drip tray, water tank, and other parts are easy to wash, and the auto-purge feature helps keep the steam wand clean after each use. Regular maintenance, like descaling every few months, will help extend the lifespan of the machine.

10. How much does the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL cost?

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is priced at the higher end of the market for home espresso machines. While the exact cost can vary based on location and retailers, it generally falls in the $1,000-$1,300 range. Though it is an investment, the machine’s advanced features, consistent performance, and durability make it worth the price for coffee enthusiasts who want a café-quality experience at home.