Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

As someone who’s been a coffee lover for years, I’ve always believed that the journey to perfect espresso requires the right equipment. For the past few months, I’ve had the pleasure of testing the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, and I can honestly say it has transformed my espresso-making experience at home. With its dual boiler system, sleek design, and impressive functionality, this machine provides an exceptional balance of performance and convenience that you’d expect from a high-end commercial espresso machine—except this one fits right into your kitchen. 

Unboxing and Setup: A Welcoming First Experience

When I first received the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, I was immediately struck by how solid it felt. The brushed stainless steel exterior not only looked great but gave it a premium feel. As a home espresso enthusiast, aesthetics matter, but functionality is paramount. Right out of the box, the machine looked like it was made to deliver top-notch espresso, and it didn’t disappoint during the setup process either.

Setting up the machine was straightforward, especially for someone who’s been using espresso machines for a while. Breville has done an excellent job making the BES920XL easy to use, even if you’ve never worked with a dual boiler machine before. After connecting the water tank and filling it with filtered water (important for longevity), I was ready to begin brewing. I turned it on, and the machine preheated within minutes. The digital display on the front immediately displayed the water temperature and shot time, making it easy to track every step of the brewing process. 

The Dual Boiler System: Efficiency and Precision

The main feature that sets the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL apart from other espresso machines is the dual boiler system. This system essentially allows you to brew espresso and steam milk at the same time, making it a huge time-saver, especially when you’re preparing multiple drinks.

As a coffee enthusiast, I’ve used several single boiler machines before, and I can tell you that the Breville Dual Boiler significantly outperforms them. In single boiler systems, you often have to wait for the machine to cool down or heat up when switching between brewing espresso and steaming milk, which can be frustrating. With the BES920XL, you never have to wait. The brew boiler is dedicated solely to brewing espresso, while the steam boiler is responsible for steaming milk, meaning both processes are independent and can operate simultaneously.

This dual setup ensures that the water temperature for brewing remains stable, which is critical for consistently pulling great shots. The PID temperature control allows you to adjust the brew temperature with precision, ensuring your espresso is always brewed at the ideal temperature. Whether you’re brewing a single shot or double, the temperature remains consistent, which helps in creating that perfect shot of espresso every time. 

Espresso Quality: Consistency and Richness

Now, let’s talk about the most important aspect of any espresso machine: the quality of the espresso it produces. With the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, I can confidently say it excels in this department. The machine’s PID temperature control and pre-infusion function give you more control over the brewing process than many other home machines in this price range. This results in a shot of espresso that is rich, balanced, and full of flavor.

One of the standout features for me has been the temperature stability. When I’ve used other espresso machines, I’ve often experienced inconsistent water temperatures, which leads to shots that are either under-extracted or over-extracted. The BES920XL, however, delivers a stable and consistent temperature throughout the shot, leading to espresso that’s flavorful and smooth, with a beautiful layer of crema on top.

I also appreciate the pre-infusion function, which gently wets the coffee grounds before the full-pressure extraction begins. This helps to ensure that the coffee grounds expand evenly, leading to better extraction and a more balanced shot. The result? A rich and well-rounded espresso that rivals any café I’ve been to.

Milk Steaming: Fast, Powerful, and Precise

If you’re someone who enjoys milk-based drinks like lattes or cappuccinos, you’ll love the BES920XL’s milk-steaming capabilities. The steam wand is incredibly powerful and fast, capable of creating silky, microfoam with minimal effort. Unlike some other home espresso machines that can take a long time to steam milk, the Breville Dual Boiler heats up quickly, allowing you to get from espresso to latte in no time at all.

The steam wand is also highly responsive and provides great control over the milk’s texture. You can adjust the milk temperature to your preference, whether you like it hot and frothy or slightly cooler with a creamy texture. The key to a good cappuccino or flat white is microfoam, and the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL delivers every time. It’s easy to get a velvety texture that’s perfect for pouring latte art, which is a huge plus for anyone who likes to show off their barista skills at home. 

Customization: Tailor Your Brewing Experience

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL allows you to customize virtually every aspect of the brewing process. From brew temperature and pre-infusion time to shot volume and steam wand pressure, you have the flexibility to adjust the settings to suit your personal taste.

For someone who loves experimenting with different beans and blends, this level of control is invaluable. The PID temperature control allows you to adjust the brew temperature to within a single degree, which is ideal if you’re working with specialty coffee or beans that require specific temperature settings. Whether you prefer your espresso slightly hotter or a little cooler, you can make those adjustments easily.

Additionally, the programmable shot times and volumetric control give you the ability to fine-tune your shots to match your preferred style. If you prefer a shorter shot with more intensity or a longer shot with a smoother finish, the Breville Dual Boiler makes it easy to dial in the perfect shot every time.

User-Friendly Interface and Display

One of the things I love about the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is how intuitive the interface is. Despite its advanced features, the machine is surprisingly easy to use. The digital display shows you all the essential information you need, from water temperature to shot time, and the buttons are clearly labeled for quick access to important functions.

I also appreciate the shot timer, which helps you keep track of your extraction time and adjust accordingly. As someone who likes to experiment with different brewing parameters, the display makes it easy to see how small adjustments to grind size, tamping pressure, or brewing time can affect the flavor of the shot.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Low Maintenance, High Performance

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that regular cleaning and maintenance are key to keeping an espresso machine in top shape. The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL makes maintenance easy. It includes an automatic clean me cycle that reminds you when it’s time to clean the machine, which is a handy feature. The machine also comes with a backflushing tool, which helps keep the group head clean and free from coffee oils.

The drip tray is large enough to handle a few days of use before it needs to be emptied, and the water tank is easy to remove and refill. I’ve found that with regular cleaning and descaling, the BES920XL continues to perform like new, even after months of use.

Price and Value: Is It Worth the Investment?

With a price tag that’s higher than many home espresso machines, you might be wondering if the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is worth the investment. After using the machine for several months, I can confidently say that it is. The dual boiler system, PID temperature control, and precise steam wand all contribute to a professional-grade espresso-making experience that you’d typically expect from much more expensive machines.

When you compare the BES920XL to other machines in its class, such as the Rancilio Silvia or the La Marzocco Linea Mini, you’re getting similar performance at a much more reasonable price point. This machine is perfect for those who want a high-end, customizable espresso maker but don’t want to break the bank.

Conclusion: A Top-Tier Espresso Machine for Home Use

In conclusion, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is an exceptional espresso machine that combines ease of use, customizable features, and professional-grade performance. Whether you’re a seasoned barista or a beginner, this machine offers everything you need to create café-quality espresso drinks at home. Its dual boiler system, precise temperature control, and fast milk steaming make it an ideal choice for anyone serious about their coffee.

If you’re looking for a machine that delivers exceptional espresso with minimal hassle, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is undoubtedly worth considering. It’s a machine that grows with you, offering plenty of room for experimentation while ensuring consistent, high-quality results every time you brew. It’s not just an espresso machine; it’s a game-changer in your coffee-making routine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What makes the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL different from other espresso machines?
A: The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL features a dual boiler system, meaning it has separate boilers for brewing espresso and steaming milk. This allows you to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously, eliminating the need to wait between processes. It also provides precise temperature control through its PID system, which ensures consistent and high-quality shots.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL easy to use for beginners?
A: Yes, despite its professional-grade features, the BES920XL is user-friendly. It has an intuitive digital display, clear buttons for adjusting settings, and a simple interface that guides you through the brewing process. If you're a beginner, the pre-programmed settings and easy-to-read display will make it easier to start brewing like a pro.

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, usually within 10-15 minutes. The machine has a preheating feature that ensures the boilers are at the ideal temperature for brewing, allowing you to get started with minimal wait time.

Q: Can I adjust the temperature and pressure on the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: Yes, the BES920XL offers a high level of customization. You can adjust the brew temperature using its PID temperature control system, allowing for precise temperature management. While you can’t adjust the pressure directly, the machine ensures consistent pressure during extraction for optimal shot quality.

Q: How is the milk-steaming capability of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: The milk-steaming capability is one of the standout features of the BES920XL. The steam wand is powerful and responsive, allowing you to create silky microfoam with ease. It’s perfect for preparing lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based drinks, and it heats up quickly to keep the process efficient.

Q: How often do I need to clean the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: Regular maintenance is essential for keeping the BES920XL in top condition. The machine includes an automatic clean me cycle, which will remind you when it’s time to clean. Additionally, it’s recommended to backflush the group head regularly and clean the drip tray, water tank, and steam wand as needed.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL worth the price?
A: Yes, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL offers excellent value for its price. It combines professional-level performance, high customization options, and ease of use at a price point that is more affordable than many commercial machines. It’s ideal for both beginners and experienced baristas looking for consistent, high-quality espresso at home.

Q: Can I make multiple drinks at once with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: Absolutely. Thanks to the dual boiler system, you can brew espresso and steam milk at the same time, making it possible to prepare multiple drinks in a short amount of time. This feature is especially useful when entertaining guests or preparing drinks for a family.

Q: Does the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL have a built-in grinder?
A: No, the BES920XL does not include a built-in grinder. However, it’s designed to work perfectly with any burr grinder that delivers a consistent grind size. Using freshly ground coffee beans is key to achieving the best espresso, so investing in a high-quality grinder is recommended.

Q: How durable is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: The BES920XL is built to last, with a robust stainless steel body and high-quality components. With proper care and regular maintenance, this machine should provide many years of reliable service. It’s designed for serious home users who want a machine that can handle daily use without compromising on quality.