Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

  • Dual boiler for brewing and steaming.
  • Precise temperature control.
  • Programmable features for customization.

Pros:

  • Dual boiler system: Brew and steam at the same time for quicker drinks.
  • Precision control: PID temperature control and adjustable pressure for consistent shots.
  • Steam wand: Delivers barista-quality microfoam for latte art.
  • User-friendly design: Easy to navigate with helpful reminders for maintenance.
  • Customizable settings: Great for experimenting and fine-tuning your espresso-making process.

Cons:

  • Price: The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is on the higher end of the price spectrum, which may be a consideration for some buyers.
  • Size: The machine is relatively large, which may be a drawback for those with limited counter space.
  • No Built-In Grinder: Users need to purchase a separate grinder for optimal coffee bean consistency.

When I first set out to find a high-end espresso machine for my home, I knew I wanted something that could deliver professional-level coffee without requiring a degree in barista skills. After much research, I found myself drawn to the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL—a machine that promised precision, consistency, and versatility. Having used it extensively for several months now, I can confidently say that this machine has completely transformed my at-home coffee experience.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things I noticed about the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL was its sleek, modern design. The brushed stainless steel finish gives it a premium feel that fits well into any kitchen decor. The machine feels solid and durable, with a weighty build that conveys a sense of quality. The stainless steel exterior is not only aesthetically pleasing but also designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily use.

The machine’s size is substantial, which is something to consider if you’re tight on counter space. It’s about 16 inches wide, 15 inches deep, and 16 inches high, so it takes up a good chunk of room, but I personally think the extra space is worth it for the performance it offers.

Dual Boiler System: Precision in Every Shot

The standout feature of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is its dual boiler system. As someone who loves both espresso and steamed milk, I appreciate how this setup allows me to brew and steam simultaneously without sacrificing temperature stability. The espresso boiler maintains a precise temperature of 200°F (93°C) for optimal extraction, while the steam boiler works at a higher temperature, allowing for smooth, rich milk frothing.

Having separate boilers means the BES920XL can maintain stable temperatures for both brewing and steaming, something that is essential for making high-quality espresso. The temperature stability is particularly impressive, as it ensures that each shot is brewed to perfection, whether I’m making a simple espresso or a more complex cappuccino.

Easy-to-Use Interface

When I first set up the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, I was pleasantly surprised by how user-friendly it is. The machine comes with an intuitive LCD screen that provides clear and concise information about the brewing process. The display shows the temperature of both the espresso and steam boilers, which is handy for ensuring the machine is operating at peak performance.

The BES920XL also features programmable buttons for single and double shots, allowing you to easily customize the amount of water used for each shot. This level of control makes it easier to experiment with different coffee beans and grind sizes to find the perfect balance for my personal taste.

Additionally, the machine comes with pre-programmed coffee settings, which I find helpful for making espresso when I’m in a hurry. The ability to adjust these settings further enhances the overall customization, ensuring that the machine suits a wide variety of coffee preferences.

Performance and Espresso Quality

In terms of performance, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL delivers outstanding results every time. With its precise temperature control and consistent pressure, the espresso brewed from this machine is rich, flavorful, and full-bodied. Whether I’m using a light roast or a dark roast, the machine extracts the best possible flavor from the coffee grounds.

The BES920XL also features a pre-infusion function, which gently wets the coffee grounds before the full pressure is applied. This step helps to achieve a more even extraction and results in a smoother, more balanced espresso. The shot quality is top-notch, with thick, golden crema on top that’s indicative of a well-pulled espresso.

Another aspect of performance that stands out is the BES920XL’s ability to handle different grind sizes and coffee beans. I’ve experimented with various beans and grinds, and the machine has consistently produced excellent espresso, with minimal adjustments needed. This versatility makes it a great choice for anyone who loves to experiment with different coffee styles.

Milk Frothing Capabilities

As someone who enjoys lattes and cappuccinos, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL excels in the milk frothing department. The steam wand is highly responsive and provides ample power to create creamy, silky microfoam. I find it easy to steam milk to the perfect texture for both lattes and cappuccinos, thanks to the dual boilers and the precise steam pressure control.

The BES920XL also features a manual steam wand, which I prefer as it allows me to have full control over the frothing process. Whether I want a thick, frothy foam for a cappuccino or a smoother texture for a latte, the machine delivers consistently good results.

While the steam wand requires a bit of practice to perfect, I found that with a little trial and error, I was able to produce cafe-quality milk froth that complemented my espresso shots perfectly.

Ease of Maintenance

Another important aspect of any espresso machine is how easy it is to maintain, and the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL does not disappoint in this regard. The machine has an automatic cleaning cycle that simplifies the cleaning process, but there are also manual cleaning options available if you prefer to have more control. The included cleaning tools, such as a portafilter cleaning brush, make maintenance easy, and I’ve found that regular cleaning ensures the machine continues to perform at a high level.

The drip tray and water tank are also easy to remove and clean, and the large 84-ounce water tank means I don’t have to refill it constantly, which is a huge convenience. Additionally, the BES920XL features a descale alert, which is a useful reminder to keep the machine in top working condition over time.

Value for Money

While the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is certainly an investment, I believe it offers excellent value for money. For the price, it provides commercial-grade performance in a home machine, something that is rare at this price point. It’s not the most affordable option on the market, but for those serious about their coffee and looking for consistent, high-quality espresso and milk frothing, the BES920XL is worth every penny.

The combination of dual boilers, programmable settings, easy-to-use interface, and high-quality espresso makes this machine a standout choice for anyone looking to take their home brewing to the next level.

Perfect for Home Baristas and Coffee Enthusiasts

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is not just for professional baristas; it's also a fantastic machine for anyone passionate about coffee and eager to learn. Over time, I’ve been able to improve my coffee-making skills significantly. With its precision and user-friendly features, this machine offers a great balance between automation and control.

If you're someone who enjoys experimenting with different coffee beans, grinds, and brew methods, the BES920XL will let you do just that. It's a fantastic tool for developing your barista skills while still offering the convenience of pre-programmed settings for those days when you just want a quick cup.

Customization and Versatility

Another thing I love about the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is how customizable it is. It’s not a machine that forces you to stick to a specific set of parameters—if you want to tweak the grind size, shot volume, or even adjust the temperature, it gives you the flexibility to do so. This level of versatility is perfect for someone like me who enjoys experimenting with different beans and brewing techniques.

The PID temperature control allows for precise adjustments, which is crucial when trying to get the most out of different coffee beans. I’ve found that by fine-tuning the temperature and grind size, I can unlock subtle flavors in my coffee that I wouldn’t be able to extract with a less capable machine.

Ideal for Daily Use

I’ve been using the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL daily, and it has proven to be a reliable companion. Whether I’m making a quick espresso in the morning before work or crafting an elaborate cappuccino on the weekend, the machine performs admirably. It doesn’t take long to warm up, and the shot consistency is excellent. Over the months, I’ve never had a shot turn out poorly unless it was due to user error, not the machine.

The dual boilers, combined with the high-quality components and intuitive interface, make it perfect for daily use, even for a home barista who is still perfecting their craft.

Conclusion

After months of using the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, I can confidently say that it has exceeded my expectations in every way. From the sleek design to the exceptional espresso quality and milk frothing capabilities, this machine has proven to be a game-changer for my at-home coffee routine. The BES920XL offers everything a home barista could want—precision, performance, and ease of use—all wrapped up in a beautiful package.

If you’re serious about making great coffee at home and don’t mind investing in a high-quality machine, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is an excellent choice. It has certainly taken my coffee game to new heights, and I have no doubt it will do the same for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does it take for the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL to warm up?
A: The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes to fully warm up and reach the ideal brewing temperature. This warm-up time ensures optimal temperature stability for both espresso brewing and milk frothing.

Q: Can I brew and steam milk at the same time with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: Yes, one of the main advantages of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is its dual boiler system, which allows you to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously without compromising on temperature stability.

Q: What is the difference between the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL and other Breville espresso machines?
A: The main difference lies in the dual boiler system, which allows for independent control of both brewing and steaming temperatures. This results in more consistent espresso shots and froth quality compared to single-boiler machines. Additionally, the BES920XL has advanced features like PID temperature control, a more precise steam wand, and a larger water tank.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL easy to clean?
A: Yes, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is relatively easy to clean. It has an automatic cleaning cycle, and components like the drip tray and water tank are easy to remove and clean. The machine also features a descale alert to help maintain its performance over time.

Q: Can I adjust the temperature and pressure on the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: Yes, the BES920XL offers adjustable temperature control via its PID system, allowing you to fine-tune the brewing and steaming temperatures. However, the pressure is not directly adjustable, but the machine is designed to maintain optimal brewing pressure for consistent espresso shots.

Q: How much maintenance does the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL require?
A: The machine requires regular maintenance, such as backflushing, cleaning the portafilter, and descaling periodically. The cleaning cycle is automated to make the process easier, but it’s important to stay on top of these tasks to ensure the machine performs at its best over time.

Q: Does the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL come with a warranty?
A: Yes, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL comes with a 2-year warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship. Always check with the manufacturer or retailer for specific warranty details and terms.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL suitable for beginners?
A: While the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL has advanced features, it is still accessible for beginners who are willing to learn. The user-friendly interface, programmable settings, and helpful display make it relatively easy to get started, though some trial and error may be involved in perfecting your shots and frothing techniques.


You may also like

Get in touch

Name*
Email*
Message
0 of 350