Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

After trying several espresso machines over the years, I finally decided to invest in something more advanced: the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL. This machine has been praised for its dual boiler system, precise temperature control, and ability to deliver café-quality espresso at home. For someone like me, who enjoys both the art and science of making coffee, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL seemed like the perfect fit.

In this article, I’ll walk you through my experience using the machine, highlighting its standout features, performance, and practical benefits from a personal perspective. I’ll also share insights into how it performs over time and who I think this machine is best suited for.

First Impressions: Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

When I first unboxed the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, I was struck by its professional look and feel. The machine has a polished stainless steel finish that immediately gave it a premium appearance. It’s not a small machine, and it does take up considerable counter space, but for someone who’s serious about coffee, this wasn’t an issue for me. In fact, it made me feel like I had a mini café setup right in my kitchen.

The controls on the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL are thoughtfully laid out, and I appreciated how intuitive the interface was, even for a machine of this complexity. The LCD display is particularly helpful, offering information about temperature, timing, and maintenance alerts, all in a clear and easy-to-read format. My first impression was that this was a serious machine designed for users who want more than just a quick cup of coffee in the morning.

Brewing Performance: Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

When it comes to brewing, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL truly shines. The first shot of espresso I pulled was rich, full-bodied, and had the perfect crema. I attribute this to the machine’s precision in temperature control, which is maintained by its PID system. Consistent water temperature is key to extracting the best flavors from your coffee, and the BES920XL delivers on this front.

The dual boiler system allows you to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously, which has been a game-changer for me. No more waiting for the machine to adjust between brewing and steaming. This feature not only speeds up the process but also maintains the consistency of my drinks. Whether I’m making a quick espresso or crafting a more elaborate cappuccino, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL ensures each shot is as good as the last.

Milk Frothing: Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

As a fan of milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, the milk frothing capabilities of an espresso machine are essential to me. The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL doesn’t disappoint. Its powerful steam wand produces smooth, silky microfoam that’s perfect for latte art and enhances the texture of my drinks. I found the steam wand to be responsive, allowing me to froth milk to just the right consistency.

During my time with the machine, I’ve been able to experiment with different milk textures, from dense foam for cappuccinos to a lighter froth for flat whites. The steam pressure is impressive, and it delivers café-quality results every time. For someone who enjoys the process of making coffee as much as drinking it, this was a major selling point in my Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review.

Customization and Control: Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

One of the standout features of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is the level of control it offers. This machine allows you to adjust almost every parameter of the brewing process, from pre-infusion time to brew temperature. For someone like me, who loves experimenting with different beans and brewing methods, this level of customization has been invaluable.

I especially appreciated the ability to adjust the pre-infusion settings. Pre-infusion allows water to gently saturate the coffee grounds before full pressure is applied, which can significantly enhance the flavor extraction. With the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, I was able to fine-tune this process to suit different types of coffee beans, resulting in more nuanced and flavorful espresso.

Another feature I found useful was the machine’s programmable shot volumes. This allowed me to save my preferred settings for both single and double shots, so I could quickly brew my favorite drinks without having to manually adjust each time. For someone who values precision and repeatability, this was a significant advantage.

Daily Use and Practicality: Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

Despite its advanced features, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is remarkably easy to use on a daily basis. Once I had familiarized myself with the settings, I found that making a cup of espresso became part of my routine. The machine heats up quickly, and the dual boiler system ensures that I can brew and steam simultaneously, which has saved me time in the mornings.

I also appreciated the thoughtful design elements, such as the easy-to-fill water tank and the well-placed drip tray. The machine’s display provides clear prompts for when it’s time to perform maintenance tasks, like descaling or cleaning the group head, which has made upkeep straightforward.

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL isn’t just for people who want to experiment with advanced settings—it’s also practical for those who want a reliable and efficient machine that fits seamlessly into their daily coffee-making routine.

Maintenance and Cleaning: Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

Maintaining the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL has been easier than I expected, considering its professional-grade features. The machine’s automated cleaning cycles have made upkeep relatively simple. After each brewing session, I give the steam wand a quick wipe, and the machine takes care of cleaning the internal components through its cleaning cycle.

One of the things I appreciated most in my Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review is the descaling alert. The machine lets me know when it’s time to descale, which is essential for keeping it running smoothly and extending its lifespan. The water filter in the tank also helps reduce the need for frequent descaling, which is a plus for those who live in areas with hard water like me.

Overall, while this machine does require regular maintenance to keep it in top condition, the design makes these tasks as hassle-free as possible.

Who is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL For?

After several months of using the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, I can confidently say this machine is best suited for serious coffee enthusiasts who value precision and control. If you’re someone who enjoys experimenting with different brewing parameters and wants the ability to customize every shot of espresso, this machine is a perfect fit.

That said, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is also a great choice for anyone who wants to consistently brew high-quality espresso at home. Its user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make it accessible for users who may not have extensive experience with advanced espresso machines but are eager to learn.

For those who prioritize milk-based drinks, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is also ideal thanks to its powerful steam wand, which delivers professional-level froth every time.

Product Review Conclusion

After thoroughly using and exploring the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, I can confidently say that this machine lives up to its reputation as a high-quality, precision espresso maker. From its dual boiler system that allows simultaneous brewing and steaming to the precise temperature control and customizable settings, it offers everything a serious coffee lover could want.

The steam wand’s ability to produce café-quality microfoam and the machine’s overall build quality make it a standout option for anyone looking to upgrade their home espresso setup. While it does require some maintenance and isn’t the most compact machine out there, the results are well worth the effort.

In conclusion, whether you’re someone who wants to explore the finer details of espresso making or just want to enjoy a consistently great cup of coffee every day, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is an excellent investment that brings professional-grade coffee into your home.

 FAQ for the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL:

Q: What makes the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL different from other espresso machines?
A: The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is unique because it has a dual boiler system, which allows you to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously. This feature is typically found in professional machines, and it ensures optimal temperature control for both brewing and steaming, giving you café-quality results at home.

Q: Can I adjust the temperature settings on the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: Yes, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL allows you to adjust the brew temperature using its PID temperature control system. This precise control helps you fine-tune the extraction process to get the best flavor out of your coffee beans.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL suitable for beginners?
A: While the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is designed for serious coffee enthusiasts, it’s also user-friendly enough for beginners who are willing to learn. The machine has an intuitive interface, clear instructions, and programmable settings that can make it easier for those new to espresso machines.

Q: How long does it take for the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL to heat up?
A: The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL heats up relatively quickly, taking around 10-15 minutes to reach the optimal brewing temperature. This is because of the dual boiler system, which maintains stable temperatures for both espresso brewing and milk steaming.

Q: Does the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL have a built-in grinder?
A: No, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL does not have a built-in grinder. You will need a separate grinder to prepare freshly ground coffee for the machine. Breville does offer compatible grinders, such as the Breville Smart Grinder Pro.

Q: How often does the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL need to be descaled?
A: The machine includes a descaling alert, which will notify you when it’s time to descale. Depending on your water hardness, descaling is generally required every 2-3 months to ensure optimal performance. The machine’s water filter also helps reduce the need for frequent descaling.

Q: Can I make milk-based drinks with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: Yes, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL has a powerful steam wand that is perfect for creating silky microfoam for lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based drinks. The steam wand provides excellent control, allowing you to texture the milk to your desired consistency.

Q: What is the capacity of the water tank on the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: The water tank has a generous capacity of 2.5 liters (84 oz), which is enough for multiple drinks before needing a refill. The tank is easily removable and can be filled from the front of the machine.

Q: How easy is it to clean and maintain the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is designed to be easy to clean and maintain. It has automated cleaning cycles for the brew group and steam wand, a descaling alert, and a removable drip tray and water tank for easy cleaning. Regular maintenance is necessary to keep the machine running smoothly, but the process is straightforward.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL worth the investment?
A: Yes, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is worth the investment for serious coffee enthusiasts who want professional-grade features at home. The dual boiler system, precise temperature control, and customizable settings make it an excellent choice for those who value quality and consistency in their espresso and milk-based drinks.