Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

As a self-proclaimed coffee aficionado, I've always been on the hunt for the perfect home espresso machine. After trying various machines over the years, I finally stumbled upon the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, and let me tell you—this machine has completely changed my coffee game. In this article, I'll share my experience, break down its features, and help you decide if it’s worth the investment. 

The First Impression: Why the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Caught My Eye

At first glance, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL looks sleek, professional, and solid—exactly what you'd want in a high-quality espresso machine. I was immediately drawn to its stainless steel finish, intuitive design, and advanced functionality. Unlike entry-level machines, this one promises barista-level performance with precise control over temperature and pressure.

From the moment I unboxed it, I knew I was dealing with a serious piece of equipment. It’s not just about aesthetics—the BES920XL is built for those who are passionate about espresso. 

Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review: Key Features That Stand Out

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL boasts some seriously impressive features that make it stand out from the competition. Here are a few highlights that I fell in love with:

• Dual Boiler System: One boiler handles espresso extraction while the other takes care of steaming milk. This means you can pull your shot and steam milk simultaneously without compromising temperature stability.
• Precise Temperature Control: The BES920XL features a PID controller, allowing you to fine-tune the water temperature to extract the perfect shot.
• Programmable Settings: From pre-infusion time to shot volume, this machine gives you complete control.
• Pressure Gauge: For espresso enthusiasts, the pressure gauge is invaluable for monitoring the extraction process.
• Auto Start Feature: You can program the machine to warm up at a specific time, so it’s ready when you need it.

These features cater to both espresso newbies and seasoned baristas, making the BES920XL a versatile option.

My Brewing Experience with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

Brewing with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is a rewarding experience, but it does come with a slight learning curve. When I first started, I spent a couple of days experimenting with grind size, dose, and tamping pressure to get the perfect shot.

Once I got the hang of it, the results were phenomenal. The dual boiler system ensures that the water temperature remains consistent, which is key to pulling a rich and flavorful espresso. The PID temperature control gives you unmatched precision, allowing you to extract your coffee at the exact temperature that suits your beans.

Whether I’m using light roast beans or dark espresso blends, the BES920XL consistently delivers exceptional results. Know How to steam milk on the Breville

Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review: Steam Wand Performance

One of the standout features of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is its commercial-grade steam wand. If you love lattes, cappuccinos, or flat whites as much as I do, you’ll appreciate the steam power on this machine.

Unlike lower-end espresso machines, the BES920XL produces microfoam with ease. The steam wand is powerful, precise, and easy to maneuver, which makes frothing milk a joy. It took me a few tries to perfect my latte art, but the learning process was fun, and the results were cafe-quality.

For anyone who values creamy, silky milk froth, this machine doesn’t disappoint.

The Design: Functional and Elegant

The design of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is both functional and elegant. Every button, dial, and control panel is thoughtfully placed for easy access. The stainless steel finish not only looks great on my countertop but also adds a professional vibe to my kitchen.

The machine’s interface is user-friendly, and the LCD screen provides all the information you need at a glance—from water temperature to shot timing. It’s clear that Breville has put a lot of thought into the user experience.

Another thing I appreciate is the machine’s compact footprint. Despite its dual boilers and advanced features, it doesn’t take up an excessive amount of space. 

Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review: Maintenance and Cleaning

Maintenance is an often-overlooked aspect of owning an espresso machine, but it’s crucial for keeping your machine in top condition. Fortunately, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL makes this process straightforward.

The machine has a built-in descaling function, which is a lifesaver when it comes to maintaining the boiler. The LCD screen guides you through the process step by step, so there’s no guesswork involved.

I also love the fact that the BES920XL comes with a water filter to reduce scale buildup. Cleaning the steam wand is easy, and the drip tray can be removed and rinsed quickly. Regular backflushing and cleaning ensure that this machine stays in pristine condition.

H3: Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review: Pros and Cons

No espresso machine is perfect, so here are the pros and cons I’ve noticed during my time with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL:

Pros:

• Dual boiler system allows simultaneous brewing and steaming
• Exceptional temperature stability with PID control
• Customizable settings for a tailored brewing experience
• Powerful steam wand for silky microfoam
• Auto start feature for added convenience
• User-friendly design and interface

Cons:

• Slightly expensive compared to entry-level machines
• Requires a bit of a learning curve for beginners
• Regular maintenance is necessary to keep performance optimal

Overall, the pros far outweigh the cons, especially if you’re serious about your coffee.

Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Worth the Investment?

Now comes the big question: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL worth the price tag? In my opinion, absolutely.

If you’re someone who drinks espresso daily and enjoys the process of dialing in the perfect shot, this machine is worth every penny. The level of control, performance, and consistency it offers is unmatched at this price point.

Sure, it’s more expensive than entry-level machines, but the results speak for themselves. For me, investing in the BES920XL has saved countless trips to coffee shops, and the quality of the espresso is just as good—if not better.

Product Review Conclusion: Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

In conclusion, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is a game-changing espresso machine that delivers barista-level performance right at home. From its dual boiler system to its powerful steam wand, this machine is designed for coffee enthusiasts who demand precision and quality.

Yes, it requires an upfront investment, but if you’re passionate about coffee, it’s worth every dollar. The ability to craft cafe-quality espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos from the comfort of my kitchen has been a game-changer for me.

If you’re on the fence, I can confidently say that the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is a machine that will exceed your expectations and elevate your coffee experience to new heights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What makes the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL different from other espresso machines?
A: The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL stands out because of its dual boiler system, allowing you to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously. It also features PID temperature control for precise extraction, a pressure gauge for monitoring, and programmable settings for a customized brewing experience.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL suitable for beginners?
A: While the BES920XL has advanced features, it does come with a slight learning curve for beginners. However, the machine's user-friendly design and LCD interface make it easier to learn over time. With practice, even a novice can achieve barista-level results.

Q: How difficult is it to clean and maintain the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: The BES920XL is designed to make maintenance straightforward. It has a built-in descaling function and an LCD guide that walks you through the cleaning process. Regular tasks include cleaning the steam wand, emptying the drip tray, and backflushing to keep the machine in top condition.

Q: Can I program the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL to be ready at a specific time?
A: Yes, the BES920XL has an auto-start feature that allows you to program the machine to heat up at a specific time, ensuring it’s ready when you need it.

Q: Does the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL work well for milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos?
A: Absolutely! The commercial-grade steam wand produces powerful steam that creates silky microfoam, perfect for lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites. The quality of the milk froth rivals what you’d get at a coffee shop.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL worth the high price?
A: If you’re passionate about espresso and milk-based drinks, the BES920XL is worth the investment. Its precision, dual boiler system, and customization options deliver cafe-quality results, saving you trips to the coffee shop in the long run.

Q: How long does it take for the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL to heat up?
A: The machine takes approximately 10-15 minutes to fully heat up. However, you can use the auto-start feature to have it ready when you need it.

Q: What kind of coffee grinder works best with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: A high-quality burr grinder is recommended for the BES920XL to achieve a consistent grind size, which is essential for optimal espresso extraction. Breville’s Smart Grinder Pro is a great companion for this machine.