Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

As a passionate coffee enthusiast, I've always sought to recreate that perfect café-quality espresso in the comfort of my home. The quest led me to the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, a machine renowned for its professional-grade features tailored for home use. This machine promised precision, speed, and convenience — all in one sleek package — but would it deliver? Here’s my personal experience with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL and how it has changed the way I enjoy coffee.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Upon unboxing the BES920XL, I was immediately struck by its sleek stainless steel design, which seamlessly complemented my kitchen décor. The machine’s compact footprint belied its robust capabilities, fitting comfortably under my cabinets while exuding an air of sophistication. Everything felt solid, and I could tell this wasn’t just a run-of-the-mill espresso machine. It felt like a serious piece of equipment, made to last and provide high-quality coffee consistently.

What Is a Dual Boiler, and Why Does It Matter?

The standout feature of the BES920XL is its dual boiler system, and I quickly realized why this feature is so important. The dual boilers allow the machine to simultaneously brew espresso and steam milk at the same time, making it a great option for those who enjoy lattes, cappuccinos, or any other milk-based beverages. Before I started using this machine, I had always had to wait for the boiler to switch from brewing to steaming. This delay could be frustrating, especially during busy mornings when I wanted my coffee ASAP. The dual boiler system on the BES920XL eliminated that wait, allowing me to prepare both components of my coffee simultaneously and in perfect harmony.

The Power of Precision: PID Temperature Control

Temperature is everything when it comes to brewing espresso. Too hot, and your coffee tastes burnt; too cold, and it’s weak and under-extracted. Fortunately, the Breville BES920XL comes equipped with a PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control, which allows for precise regulation of water temperature during extraction. This feature stood out to me because it ensured that every espresso shot I pulled was perfectly brewed, with the water heated to the optimal temperature for flavor extraction. No more guessing or worrying about the temperature.

Pre-Infusion: The Secret to Better Espresso

Another feature I appreciate is the pre-infusion function. This is where the machine applies low-pressure water to the coffee grounds before full pressure is used. The idea behind this is to gently saturate the grounds, allowing for a more even extraction. At first, I didn’t think much of it, but after using it for a while, I noticed a significant difference in the quality of my espresso shots. The pre-infusion helped to ensure a smoother, more balanced flavor, which I didn’t always achieve with previous machines.

Milk Frothing Like a Pro: Steam Wand Performance

For anyone who enjoys a cappuccino or a latte, a steam wand is essential. The BES920XL comes with an incredibly powerful steam wand that allows you to create microfoam. I’ll admit, when I first started using the machine, I wasn’t quite sure how to achieve the perfect microfoam. However, with a little practice, I was able to create the kind of silky, smooth foam that’s essential for latte art and a truly creamy texture in milk-based beverages. The steam wand rotates 360 degrees, giving me full control over the milk frothing process. Once I got the hang of it, I was able to easily make café-quality drinks at home.

User-Friendly Design and Interface

Although the Breville BES920XL boasts professional-level features, its user interface is surprisingly straightforward. The digital display gives real-time feedback on temperature, shot duration, and other brewing parameters. I found it easy to navigate the settings and quickly customize the machine to my preferences. Whether I was adjusting the shot volume, programming the pre-infusion time, or setting up the automatic start, everything was clearly labeled and easy to adjust. I was impressed by how much control I had over each aspect of the brewing process without feeling overwhelmed by the machine’s advanced functions.

Maintaining the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

One concern I had with purchasing a high-end espresso machine like the BES920XL was maintenance. Would it be a hassle to clean and maintain? Fortunately, I found that Breville made this process relatively simple. The machine includes built-in cleaning alerts and descaling reminders, so I never had to guess when it was time for a deep clean. The water reservoir is easy to remove and refill, and the drip tray is large enough to minimize spills. Regular cleaning and maintenance have been simple tasks, and it’s nice to know the machine is looking out for me when it comes to keeping things in working order.

A Bit of a Learning Curve

While the BES920XL is user-friendly, there was a slight learning curve when it came to fully understanding all of its features. For example, adjusting the pre-infusion time, fine-tuning the grind size for optimal extraction, and perfecting milk frothing took some trial and error. But after a few days of experimenting, I felt comfortable with the machine and had a good sense of how to get the best results. The manual is detailed, and Breville also provides online resources and guides to help new users.

Why Choose the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?

In my experience, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is ideal for serious coffee drinkers who want to elevate their at-home brewing game. Whether you’re a beginner or someone who’s already familiar with espresso machines, this machine offers a wide range of features that will improve the quality of your coffee. From its precise temperature control to the dual boiler system and powerful steam wand, the BES920XL makes it easier than ever to brew café-quality coffee at home.

While there’s a bit of a learning curve, the machine’s intuitive design and programmable features make it easier to adapt and learn. The cost of the BES920XL is higher compared to entry-level machines, but I feel it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about espresso. The quality, reliability, and precision of the Breville Dual Boiler have significantly enhanced my daily coffee routine, and I’ve enjoyed experimenting with different beans, grind sizes, and brewing techniques.

Is It Worth the Investment?

If you’re someone who loves coffee and wants to bring the café experience into your own kitchen, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is an excellent choice. It combines high-end features, professional performance, and user-friendly controls to create an espresso machine that truly delivers. Sure, it’s an investment, but for those who are passionate about coffee, it’s a machine that will pay off in the long run. I’ve enjoyed every cup I’ve brewed with it, and I’m excited to continue exploring its full potential.

Final Thoughts: A Machine That Delivers Quality and Consistency

Looking back on my time with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, I can confidently say that it has exceeded my expectations. It has provided consistent, high-quality espresso shots, silky microfoam, and a user experience that I didn’t expect from a machine at this price point. If you’re someone who enjoys the craft of brewing coffee and is willing to put in the effort to learn its features, the BES920XL is a fantastic addition to any kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How long does it take to brew an espresso with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: On average, it takes around 25-30 seconds to extract a shot of espresso once the machine is preheated. The dual boiler system allows for quick transition from brewing to steaming, so you can make both espresso and milk-based drinks in quick succession.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL easy to clean?
A: Yes, the BES920XL is relatively easy to clean. It has built-in alerts to remind you when it needs descaling or other maintenance. The removable water reservoir and drip tray make cleaning straightforward, and regular maintenance will ensure the machine stays in top working condition.

Q: Do I need an external grinder for the BES920XL?
A: Yes, the Breville Dual Boiler does not come with a built-in grinder, so you will need to purchase one separately. A burr grinder is recommended for consistent grind size and optimal extraction.

Q: Can I adjust the temperature settings on the BES920XL?
A: Absolutely! The machine is equipped with PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control, which allows you to precisely adjust the brewing temperature to suit your coffee preferences.

Q: Does the BES920XL come with a warranty?
A: Yes, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL typically comes with a 1-year limited warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, though it does not cover damages caused by misuse or improper maintenance.

Q: How difficult is it to froth milk with the BES920XL?
A: The steam wand on the BES920XL is powerful and versatile, making it relatively easy to froth milk once you get the hang of it. With practice, you’ll be able to create microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos, as well as achieve silky-smooth textures for your milk-based drinks.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler suitable for beginners?
A: While the BES920XL offers professional-grade features, it can be a bit overwhelming for beginners. However, its user-friendly interface and the ability to customize settings make it accessible with some learning. Once you get familiar with the machine, it becomes much easier to use.

Q: Can I use pre-ground coffee with the BES920XL?
A: Yes, you can use pre-ground coffee with the BES920XL, though fresh ground coffee will yield better results. For optimal performance, it’s recommended to use freshly ground beans to ensure maximum flavor and extraction quality.