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.

As a coffee enthusiast, I'm always on the lookout for espresso machines that can deliver both performance and quality. After much research, I decided to take the plunge and try out the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL. This espresso machine has been making waves in the coffee world, and I wanted to see if it truly lives up to the hype. In this review, I’ll share my experience with this powerhouse machine, covering everything from design and features to performance and ease of use. 

Unboxing the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

When the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL arrived at my doorstep, I was eager to get it out of the box and start exploring. Right away, I could tell that this is a high-quality, premium machine. The exterior is sleek and modern, with a brushed stainless steel finish that gives it an elegant, professional look. It’s not overly flashy, but it certainly stands out in a good way.

The packaging was secure, and everything was well protected. Inside the box, I found the main unit, a portafilter, a steam wand, a drip tray, and several accessories, including cleaning tools and a water filter. It was clear that Breville had put thought into both the design and presentation of the BES920XL, and I was excited to dive into the setup.

Design and Build Quality

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is built to last. The machine’s body is made of durable stainless steel, which not only gives it a professional aesthetic but also ensures that it can withstand the rigors of daily use. One of the standout features of this espresso maker is its dual boiler system, which means it has separate boilers for brewing and steaming. This setup allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming, so you don’t have to wait between shots and milk frothing—a huge plus for anyone who values efficiency.

In my experience, the build quality has stood up to the test of daily use. The stainless steel is not only visually appealing but feels solid. The machine’s overall weight gives it a sturdy, high-end feel, making it clear that Breville designed this with longevity in mind. It’s a machine that looks as good as it functions.

The overall design is intuitive and user-friendly. It has an LCD screen that displays key information like the current temperature of both the brew and steam boilers, shot time, and even a countdown timer. The buttons and knobs are straightforward, making it easy to adjust settings like brew temperature, shot volume, and steam pressure. Although it’s a little on the larger side, it fits comfortably on my kitchen countertop and doesn’t take up too much space.

Key Features and Performance

Dual Boiler System

One of the standout features of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is its dual boiler system. As the name suggests, this machine has two separate boilers: one for brewing coffee and the other for steaming milk. The beauty of this system is that it allows you to brew and steam simultaneously, which cuts down on wait time between shots and steam frothing. This is especially useful when making multiple drinks in a row or preparing beverages for guests.

When I first used the dual boiler system, I was impressed with how quickly and efficiently it worked. There was no more waiting for the machine to reach the ideal steaming temperature after brewing, which made preparing lattes or cappuccinos feel seamless. Being able to pull a shot while steaming milk is a huge time-saver, especially when you’re preparing drinks for more than one person. 

PID Temperature Control

Another feature that I really appreciate is the PID temperature control. The BES920XL’s PID controller allows you to set and maintain a precise brewing temperature. This is important for ensuring that the espresso extraction is consistent and within the ideal temperature range, which typically falls between 195°F and 205°F.

When I started experimenting with different temperatures, I noticed subtle differences in the taste of my espresso. Higher temperatures brought out a bolder, richer flavor, while slightly cooler temperatures produced a smoother, more balanced cup. The ability to fine-tune the temperature in one-degree increments has allowed me to dial in the perfect shot, ensuring that I get the best possible extraction every time.

Pre-Infusion and Shot Timing

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL offers programmable pre-infusion, which gently wets the coffee grounds before the full pressure of the brew cycle is applied. This helps to create a more even extraction and enhances the flavor profile of the espresso. I’ve found that pre-infusion improves the consistency of my shots, especially when using freshly ground coffee.

The shot timing feature is another great addition. The machine allows you to adjust the shot time, which helps to control the strength and flavor of the espresso. For someone like me who loves to experiment with different beans and grind sizes, being able to adjust the shot timing is a huge benefit. By playing around with the shot time, I’ve been able to dial in a brew that works perfectly for the coffee I’m using, resulting in a richer and more flavorful shot. 

Steam Wand Performance

The steam wand on the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is a significant upgrade over other machines in the same price range. It’s powerful, versatile, and allows for precise control over milk frothing. The steam wand has a 360-degree swivel, making it easy to position and maneuver while steaming milk for lattes and cappuccinos. The steam pressure is consistent, and it heats milk quickly, which is great for preparing drinks in a hurry.

I’ve been able to create microfoam with ease, and while it took a little practice at first, I can now make silky smooth milk with the perfect texture. The steam wand’s design makes it easy to create latte art, which has been a fun addition to my morning routine. There’s a learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, the steam wand can deliver professional-level results.

Ease of Use

Setting up and using the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL has been a smooth experience. The LCD screen is easy to read, and the interface is intuitive. I especially appreciate the ability to customize settings like brew temperature, shot volume, and pre-infusion time, which allows me to tailor each shot to my preferences.

One feature that I’ve found particularly useful is the ability to program the machine to automatically turn on and off at specific times. Since I tend to make my coffee first thing in the morning, it’s nice to have the machine preheated and ready to go when I wake up. The automatic power-off function also gives me peace of mind, knowing that I won’t accidentally leave the machine running all day.

The machine also features an automatic cleaning cycle, which makes maintenance relatively easy. After each use, I simply run the cleaning cycle, and the machine is ready for the next round of coffee. The water reservoir is large enough to avoid frequent refills, and the drip tray is easy to remove and clean. While I still make it a point to clean the group head and steam wand after every use, the automated cleaning helps maintain the machine’s performance with minimal effort on my part.

Durability and Longevity

After using the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL for several months, I can confidently say that this machine is built to last. The stainless steel construction feels solid and sturdy, and I haven’t experienced any issues with wear or tear. The dual boiler system operates efficiently and doesn’t show signs of strain, even after multiple uses per day.

Additionally, the machine has a self-cleaning cycle, which helps maintain its performance over time. As long as you take care of the machine by regularly cleaning the group head and steam wand, I believe this espresso machine will continue to serve me well for years to come.

Making Coffee at Home: Convenience vs. Cafés

One of the biggest advantages of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is the ability to make café-quality espresso drinks at home. In the past, I’ve spent a lot of time and money visiting local coffee shops, but the BES920XL has allowed me to recreate my favorite drinks in the comfort of my own kitchen. The machine’s consistent performance means that I can brew espresso that’s as good, if not better, than what I get at most cafés.

While it’s not a fully automated machine, the BES920XL’s intuitive interface and customization options make it easy to achieve professional-level results with a bit of practice. For someone like me, who enjoys the process of making coffee and experimenting with different settings, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL strikes the perfect balance between automation and hands-on control.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I am extremely satisfied with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL. It offers a perfect balance of performance, ease of use, and quality. The dual boiler system, PID temperature control, pre-infusion, and steam wand performance are all top-notch features that elevate this machine above other models in its price range.

Whether you’re a home barista looking to take your coffee game to the next level or just someone who loves a good espresso, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is a great choice. It offers the versatility and performance you need to create café-quality drinks in the comfort of your own home. If you’re willing to invest in a premium espresso machine, I think you’ll find this one worth the investment. It’s been a game-changer for me, and I’m sure it will be for others as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is a high-end espresso machine designed for home baristas. It features a dual boiler system, allowing simultaneous brewing and steaming, and offers precise control over brewing temperature, shot timing, and steam pressure. It is built with stainless steel for durability and delivers professional-level espresso and steamed milk.

Q: How does the dual boiler system work?
A: The dual boiler system in the BES920XL has two separate boilers—one for brewing espresso and the other for steaming milk. This design allows you to brew espresso and steam milk at the same time, significantly reducing wait times between drinks.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL easy to use?
A: Yes, the machine is designed to be user-friendly with an intuitive LCD screen, simple controls, and programmable features. While it offers a lot of customization for more experienced users, it’s still accessible for beginners looking to create high-quality espresso.

Q: Can I adjust the temperature on the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: Yes, the BES920XL features PID temperature control, allowing you to adjust the brewing temperature in one-degree increments. This level of control helps achieve the ideal extraction and flavor for your espresso.

Q: What’s special about the steam wand?
A: The steam wand on the BES920XL is powerful and versatile. It allows for precise control over milk frothing and can create microfoam, making it ideal for lattes and cappuccinos. The 360-degree swivel makes it easy to maneuver and position for optimal milk texturing.

Q: Is regular maintenance required?
A: Yes, like any espresso machine, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL requires regular maintenance. It features an automatic cleaning cycle, but it’s important to also clean the group head and steam wand after each use. Regular care will ensure the machine performs well over time.

Q: How long does the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL last?
A: With proper maintenance, the BES920XL is built to last for many years. The stainless steel construction and durable components are designed to withstand heavy use, making it a long-term investment for coffee lovers.

Q: Can I make café-quality espresso at home with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: Yes, the BES920XL is designed to help you make professional-quality espresso and steamed milk at home. With its precise controls, dual boiler system, and powerful steam wand, you can achieve café-quality drinks right in your kitchen.


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