Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

As a dedicated coffee lover, finding the right espresso machine has always been a quest. Over the years, I’ve tried a variety of machines, but none have quite matched the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL. It promised an all-in-one solution for brewing great coffee, and after using it for several months, I’m here to share my honest review.

Unboxing and First Impressions

When I first unpacked the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, I immediately noticed its professional build. It’s a heavy machine, solid and sturdy, with a sleek stainless steel finish that gives it a high-end feel. The design is thoughtful, with rounded edges and a compact structure, ensuring it fits easily under most kitchen cabinets. It’s clear that this is a serious machine built for regular use, not a novelty piece that will sit in the corner of the kitchen collecting dust.

Setting it up was relatively simple. The user manual provided clear instructions, and within an hour, I had everything set up and was ready to make my first espresso. The machine offers plenty of customization, so even though it’s relatively simple to get started, it does take some time to get the most out of all the features.

Dual Boilers: A Game-Changer for Home Brewing

One of the standout features of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is the dual boiler system. If you’ve used espresso machines with a single boiler, you’ll immediately notice the difference. A single boiler requires you to switch between brewing and steaming milk, which can be time-consuming and can sometimes cause temperature fluctuations that impact the quality of your espresso. With the BES920XL, both processes can happen simultaneously, making it incredibly efficient.

I’ve found this especially handy when making multiple drinks for guests. Instead of waiting for the steam wand to cool down after pulling a shot, I can brew another espresso and steam milk at the same time. This dual-boiler system really enhances workflow and makes preparing lattes or cappuccinos quicker and more seamless.

Temperature Control and Espresso Quality

Temperature stability is crucial for espresso brewing, and this is where the BES920XL really shines. The machine offers precise temperature control, adjustable in 1°F increments, which allows you to fine-tune your espresso shots. I love experimenting with different temperatures to see how the flavors of the coffee change. Whether I’m using a light roast or a dark roast, the machine holds the temperature steady throughout the extraction process, ensuring consistency shot after shot.

The results? Consistently great espresso with a nice crema. I’ve been able to pull shots that are balanced and flavorful, with that signature rich, full-bodied taste you expect from a well-made espresso. The grinder settings also play a crucial role in getting the right grind size, and with a bit of practice, I’ve been able to adjust everything just right.

Steaming Milk and Making Lattes

If you enjoy milk-based drinks like lattes or cappuccinos, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL excels in this area too. The steam wand is powerful and responsive, allowing me to create silky microfoam that’s perfect for latte art. I’ve found that it offers a lot of control, which is crucial for getting that smooth texture I enjoy. The wand is easy to maneuver, and it’s quick to purge, making cleanup a breeze.

What I appreciate most about the steam wand is how easy it is to create different types of milk froth. Whether I’m going for a flat white with just a little foam or a cappuccino with a nice layer of frothy milk, I can adjust the steam pressure to suit my needs.

Customization Options

One of the things I appreciate about the BES920XL is the level of customization it offers. The machine allows you to adjust shot volume, pre-infusion time, and even the water temperature, so you can tweak your espresso to fit your preferences. I found that it didn’t take long to figure out what settings worked best for the different beans I was using. It’s a great machine for anyone who wants to experiment and fine-tune their coffee to their liking.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Maintaining the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is relatively straightforward. It comes with a range of helpful maintenance features that make it easy to keep the machine in top condition. For instance, the machine has a built-in descale function that alerts you when it’s time to clean. The drip tray and water reservoir are easy to access and clean, and I’ve found that I rarely need to do a deep clean because of how user-friendly it is.

The steam wand is also easy to clean, especially with the automatic purge feature. After steaming milk, the machine automatically purges the wand, making it much easier to wipe clean. These little touches make the upkeep of the machine feel less like a chore.

Final Thoughts

After months of using the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, I can say with confidence that this is a top-tier espresso machine that lives up to its promises. It offers the precision and performance of professional machines without the complexity, making it an excellent choice for home baristas. While it’s not the cheapest option, the quality, ease of use, and customization make it a worthy investment for anyone serious about their coffee.

Whether you’re brewing solo or making drinks for friends, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL ensures that every cup is brewed to perfection. If you’re looking to elevate your home coffee game, this machine is definitely worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL worth the investment?
A: Yes, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is a great investment for coffee enthusiasts who want consistent, high-quality espresso and the convenience of brewing and steaming simultaneously. It may be pricier than some other machines, but its performance, precision, and ease of use make it a valuable choice for home baristas.

Q: Can I make multiple drinks at once with this machine?
A: Absolutely! The dual boiler system allows you to brew espresso and steam milk at the same time, making it much faster to prepare multiple drinks without waiting between each step.

Q: Is it difficult to clean the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: No, cleaning is relatively simple. The machine has features like automatic steam wand purging and easy-to-access trays and reservoirs. It also alerts you when it's time for descaling, making regular maintenance a breeze.

Q: Can I adjust the temperature on the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: Yes, the machine offers precise temperature control, allowing you to adjust the brew temperature in 1°F increments. This helps you experiment with different brewing temperatures to enhance the flavor profile of your espresso.

Q: Does the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL come with a grinder?
A: No, the BES920XL does not come with an integrated grinder. You will need to purchase a separate coffee grinder to pair with it. However, the machine works well with most grinders, and you can fine-tune your grind size for the best results.

Q: How long does it take to learn how to use the machine?
A: While there is a bit of a learning curve due to the range of customizable features, the machine is user-friendly overall. It may take a few days to fully get comfortable with the different settings, but once you do, it’s easy to use.