Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

As a self-proclaimed coffee enthusiast, finding the perfect espresso machine has been quite the journey. I’ve tried numerous models over the years, but none have matched the performance and quality of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL. In this review, I’ll walk you through my personal experience with this machine, its features, and how it has transformed my at-home coffee game.

Design and Build Quality

When I first unboxed the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, I was immediately impressed by its solid build and sleek, professional look. The machine weighs a hefty 30 pounds, which speaks to the durable materials used in its construction. The stainless steel exterior is both sturdy and easy to clean, giving the machine an elegant touch that looks great in any kitchen. The size of the BES920XL is substantial, so it’s not something you’ll want to squeeze into a cramped space, but it definitely makes a statement on the countertop.

One thing I really appreciate about the design is the user-friendly interface. It’s not intimidating for beginners but has enough features to satisfy even the most seasoned baristas. The buttons and dials are well-placed, making it easy to navigate through settings without feeling overwhelmed.

Dual Boiler System: Precision and Efficiency

The standout feature of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is, without a doubt, its dual boiler system. This technology allows the machine to simultaneously brew espresso and steam milk without any lag time. As someone who enjoys making lattes and cappuccinos, this feature alone has made my life so much easier.

The dual boilers are made of high-quality materials that ensure consistent temperature control. The espresso boiler maintains a temperature of 200°F (93°C), while the steam boiler stays at around 250°F (121°C). This means you get perfectly extracted espresso shots without sacrificing the steam pressure needed to create velvety microfoam for your milk-based drinks.

Having separate boilers for brewing and steaming also minimizes the waiting time between shots, which is ideal if you're making multiple cups of coffee or entertaining guests. The fact that I can pull a shot and steam milk at the same time makes this machine incredibly efficient.

Coffee Quality and Performance

When it comes to coffee quality, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL truly shines. The PID temperature control ensures that the water temperature remains stable throughout the brewing process. This is crucial for achieving a consistent espresso shot every time. I've noticed that my shots have a rich crema with just the right amount of sweetness and bitterness. Whether I’m using freshly ground beans or pre-ground coffee, the machine’s performance is always top-notch.

The pre-infusion function is another feature that I appreciate. It gently wets the coffee grounds before full pressure is applied, which helps to evenly extract the flavors from the coffee. This results in a more balanced shot and less channeling, which can often occur with cheaper machines.

One of the standout features of the BES920XL is the adjustable pressure. I’ve experimented with different pressure levels, and it’s great to be able to fine-tune the extraction process to suit the type of coffee I’m brewing. Whether I’m making a light roast or a dark espresso, the machine handles it all with ease.

Steaming Power and Milk Frothing

As a fan of lattes and cappuccinos, I’ve always struggled with creating the perfect microfoam. The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL has been a game-changer in this department. The steam wand is powerful and responsive, making it easy to create rich, creamy froth in just a few seconds. The milk frothing process feels effortless, and the resulting foam is always velvety and smooth.

What sets the BES920XL apart from other machines I’ve used is the automatic milk texturing feature. You can set the desired temperature and texture for your milk, and the machine will do the rest. This is particularly useful if you’re new to steaming milk or if you just want consistency without the hassle of manual control.

The steam wand is also articulating, so it swivels around to give you full control over the frothing process. Whether you’re making a small cappuccino or a large latte, it’s easy to position the wand to create the perfect foam every time.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

One of the things I love most about the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is how user-friendly it is. The machine comes with a detailed manual that helps you get started, and there’s even a helpful guide on how to calibrate the machine for optimal performance. Even as a beginner, I found it relatively easy to set up and start making coffee.

Cleaning and maintenance are also straightforward. The machine has an auto-cleaning feature that helps to keep the internals clean, and the removable drip tray and water reservoir are easy to access and maintain. I usually run a water-only cycle through the machine after each use to keep it fresh, and the process takes only a few minutes.

Another useful feature is the water filter, which helps to improve the quality of the water used for brewing. This is an important aspect for maintaining the machine and ensuring that your espresso tastes fresh and free of any unwanted mineral deposits.

Customization Options

For those who enjoy experimenting with their coffee, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL offers a range of customization options. You can adjust the temperature, pressure, pre-infusion time, and shot volume to suit your preferences. The programmable shot timer is particularly useful for fine-tuning your extraction and ensuring consistency across multiple cups of coffee.

The dose control is another feature I use frequently. I’ve found that adjusting the amount of ground coffee can have a significant impact on the flavor of my espresso. With the Breville, I can easily make adjustments to suit my taste, whether I want a stronger shot or a more mild brew.

Reliability and Consistency

What I really appreciate about the Breville Dual Boiler is its reliability. Some machines can be a bit temperamental, requiring frequent adjustments or maintenance, but the BES920XL has been rock-solid for me. I’ve been using it daily for months, and I’ve yet to experience any major issues. The machine consistently delivers great shots, and the steaming power remains strong. For anyone serious about their coffee, this kind of reliability is essential.

One of the most important things in a home espresso machine is consistency, and the BES920XL delivers on that front. It doesn’t matter if I’m making one shot or a series of lattes for friends; the quality remains high. This consistency is a huge deal for me because I’m not always in the mood to “dial in” my shots from scratch. With the Breville, I know I’ll get a quality brew every time, which makes the entire process more enjoyable.

What I Wish Was Different

No machine is perfect, and there are a couple of minor things I’d love to see improved in the Breville Dual Boiler. First, while the machine’s size is perfect for those with enough counter space, it may not be ideal for small kitchens. It’s a heavy, substantial piece of equipment, and it could be a tight fit in certain setups.

Also, the steam wand is great, but if you’re used to super quick frothing (like some commercial machines), there may be a slight learning curve. However, this is something that’s easy to get used to with a little practice.

Conclusion: Worth the Investment

After using the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL for several months, I can confidently say that it’s one of the best investments I’ve made in my coffee journey. The combination of a dual boiler system, precise temperature control, and powerful steaming capabilities makes this machine a standout choice for serious coffee lovers. Whether you're a seasoned barista or a home coffee enthusiast, the Breville Dual Boiler offers a high level of performance and customization that is hard to beat.

The quality of the espresso is exceptional, and the steaming power is perfect for creating professional-level milk textures. The ease of use, combined with the sleek design and robust features, makes this machine a worthy addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen.

If you're serious about elevating your coffee-making experience, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is definitely worth considering. It's a machine that caters to both beginners and experts alike, delivering barista-quality espresso and milk-based drinks with every use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL easy to use for beginners?
A: Yes, the Breville Dual Boiler is user-friendly and designed to accommodate both beginners and more experienced users. It has a straightforward interface, and the included manual provides step-by-step instructions to help you get started. Additionally, the machine has automatic features, like milk texturing, that make the process easier for those who are still learning the ropes.

Q: Does the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL come with a grinder?
A: No, the Breville Dual Boiler does not include a grinder. You’ll need to purchase a separate burr grinder to get the most out of this machine. A high-quality grinder is essential for achieving a consistent espresso shot, so investing in a good one will enhance your overall experience.

Q: How long does it take for the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL to heat up?
A: The machine typically takes around 10-15 minutes to fully heat up. However, once it’s warmed up, it maintains a stable temperature, which ensures consistent espresso quality throughout your brewing session.

Q: Can I make multiple cups of coffee with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL at once?
A: Yes, the dual boiler system allows you to brew espresso and steam milk at the same time, making it easier to prepare multiple cups without waiting for the machine to switch between tasks. This is especially handy when you have guests or need to make several drinks in a row.

Q: Is the steam wand easy to use for frothing milk?
A: Yes, the steam wand is powerful and responsive, making it easy to create velvety microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos. It swivels, allowing you to adjust its position for better control, and the automatic milk texturing feature ensures consistent results without much effort.

Q: Does the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL have a water filter?
A: Yes, the machine includes a water filter to improve water quality and maintain the longevity of the espresso machine. Using filtered water can also help prevent mineral buildup and ensure that your coffee tastes fresh and clean.

Q: How often do I need to clean the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: While the machine has an auto-cleaning feature, it’s still important to perform regular maintenance. I recommend cleaning the portafilter, drip tray, and water reservoir after each use. You should also run the auto-clean cycle occasionally to keep the internals in good condition. Additionally, descaling is necessary every few months, depending on your water hardness.

Q: Can I adjust the temperature and pressure of the espresso?
A: Yes, the Breville Dual Boiler allows for a high level of customization. You can adjust both the temperature and pressure of the espresso to suit your preferences. This is ideal for experimenting with different coffee beans and styles of espresso.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL worth the price?
A: If you’re serious about your coffee and want to achieve barista-level results at home, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is worth the investment. It offers excellent performance, customization options, and consistency, making it a great choice for those looking to elevate their at-home coffee experience.