Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

When it comes to making the perfect espresso at home, having a machine that offers precision and consistency is key. As someone who has explored numerous espresso machines, I was particularly drawn to the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL. It’s a machine that promises café-quality results, and after using it for an extended period, I can confidently share my experience and thoughts.

My Experience of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

From the moment I unboxed the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, the machine exuded quality. The stainless steel finish gives it a professional feel, and it’s immediately clear that this isn’t just any home espresso machine. What stood out to me first was the dual boiler setup, which promises faster performance and better control over the espresso extraction and milk steaming process.

Having the ability to extract espresso and steam milk simultaneously made a noticeable difference in how quickly I could prepare drinks. This feature alone sets the BES920XL apart from other machines in a similar price range.

Setting Up the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

Setting up the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL was straightforward, though I took my time to ensure everything was calibrated properly. The instructions were clear, and I appreciated how Breville included a water hardness test strip to help set the machine to the correct water hardness. This small feature adds to the longevity of the machine, which is an aspect I always consider when purchasing an espresso maker.

The dual boiler also required me to make sure that both boilers were filled correctly before I started. However, the machine's display guides you through this, making the process easy even for those who are not as experienced with espresso machines.

Using the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

Using the machine is where the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL truly shines. The temperature control is precise, and having the ability to adjust the brew temperature was incredibly helpful for different types of coffee beans. I found that the pre-infusion function, which gradually increases water pressure, contributed to an even extraction and richer flavors in my espresso.

One feature I found particularly helpful was the volumetric control. The machine allows you to adjust the volume of your shot, making it easy to perfect your espresso. Whether you prefer a single shot, double shot, or something in between, this feature allows for full customization.

Milk Frothing with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

Steaming milk with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is an absolute pleasure. The dedicated steam boiler means there is no waiting time between brewing espresso and steaming milk. The steam wand produces consistent microfoam, which is essential for making silky lattes and cappuccinos. After a few tries, I was able to create milk froth comparable to what you’d get in a coffee shop.

I also appreciated the professional-quality steam wand, which rotates in all directions, giving me full control over the milk frothing process. This machine allows for barista-level control over the texture and temperature of the milk, which is something that makes a big difference in the final result.

Cleaning and Maintenance of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

Cleaning the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is not as intimidating as it might seem given its complex setup. The machine has a built-in descaling function, which is vital for maintaining the longevity of the boilers. Additionally, the machine reminds you when it’s time to descale or change the water filter.

The drip tray is spacious and easy to remove and clean, and I found that the design minimizes mess, especially when compared to other machines I’ve used. The water reservoir is also accessible from the front, which makes refilling it less of a hassle.

Customizing Your Experience with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

The ability to customize settings on the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is one of its standout features. From adjusting the brew temperature to programming the shot volume, it’s clear that this machine was designed with serious coffee enthusiasts in mind. I found myself experimenting with different settings to get the best flavor out of various coffee beans, and each adjustment made a noticeable difference.

For anyone who loves to tweak their espresso to get that perfect shot, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL offers endless possibilities. Whether you’re adjusting for the type of roast, grind size, or temperature, the machine makes it easy to find your sweet spot.

Comparing the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL to Other Machines

In comparison to other espresso machines I’ve used, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL stands out for its precision and professional-grade features. The dual boiler system puts it on par with much more expensive commercial machines, but without the hefty price tag. Compared to single-boiler or thermoblock machines, the Breville offers much faster heat-up times and better temperature stability, which is crucial for consistently good espresso.

I’ve used other machines in the Breville lineup, and while those offer excellent performance for their price, the BES920XL takes it a step further for those who want more control and precision.

Who Should Buy the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is ideal for serious coffee enthusiasts who want the power and flexibility of a commercial-grade espresso machine in their home. If you love making espresso drinks and experimenting with different settings to extract the best flavors from your beans, this machine will not disappoint.

However, if you’re a more casual coffee drinker who simply wants a quick espresso in the morning, the complexity and customization options of this machine might be overkill. For those people, Breville’s simpler models like the Barista Express or Barista Pro might be more suitable.

Product Review Conclusion

In conclusion, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is a top-tier machine that offers incredible control over every aspect of espresso making. From the dual boilers to the precise temperature control and steam wand, it’s a machine that delivers professional results at home.

For those who are passionate about espresso and want to replicate café-quality drinks, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is an investment that will not disappoint. After using it consistently, I’ve been thoroughly impressed with the quality of espresso and milk-based drinks it produces, and I can confidently say it’s one of the best machines available for home use.

FAQs for Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

Q: What is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, and what makes it unique?
A: The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is a high-end espresso machine designed for home baristas who want professional-level control over their espresso making. Its unique feature is the dual boiler system, which allows users to extract espresso and steam milk simultaneously without losing temperature consistency, resulting in faster and more precise preparation.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL difficult to use for beginners?
A: While the machine offers advanced features, it is user-friendly, thanks to its intuitive LCD interface and clear instructions. However, it may have a learning curve for complete beginners, particularly when it comes to fine-tuning settings like brew temperature and shot volume. With practice, even beginners can achieve excellent results.

Q: Can I adjust the temperature of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: Yes, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL allows users to adjust the temperature of the water for brewing, which is essential for achieving the best extraction depending on the type of coffee beans being used. This feature gives coffee enthusiasts greater control over the flavor profile of their espresso.

Q: How often do I need to descale the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: The frequency of descaling depends on the hardness of the water in your area and how often you use the machine. The machine has a descaling reminder feature that will notify you when it’s time to descale. Regular maintenance, including descaling, helps ensure the longevity and performance of the machine.

Q: Does the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL have a built-in grinder?
A: No, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL does not come with a built-in grinder. However, many users pair it with a separate grinder, such as the Breville Smart Grinder Pro, to achieve precise grind size control for the perfect espresso shot.

Q: Can I use pre-ground coffee with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: Yes, you can use pre-ground coffee with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL. However, for the best results, it’s recommended to use freshly ground coffee beans and adjust the grind size to match your desired flavor profile.

Q: What kind of drinks can I make with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: With its ability to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously, you can make a wide range of espresso-based drinks such as lattes, cappuccinos, macchiatos, and flat whites. The dual boiler system ensures that both the espresso extraction and milk frothing processes are done to perfection.

Q: How long does it take for the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL to heat up?
A: The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL takes approximately 10 minutes to heat up and be ready for use. However, once heated, it maintains a consistent temperature, allowing you to brew multiple shots of espresso back-to-back without delay.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL suitable for large households or entertaining guests?
A: Yes, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is perfect for making multiple drinks in quick succession, thanks to its dual boiler system. Whether you're preparing drinks for a household or entertaining guests, the machine’s ability to brew and steam simultaneously makes it an excellent choice for high-volume use.

Q: What maintenance is required for the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: Regular maintenance includes descaling, cleaning the group head, emptying the drip tray, and changing the water filter when needed. The machine will notify you when it’s time to perform tasks like descaling, making maintenance straightforward and easy to follow.