Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

If you're like me, you've probably been through multiple coffee makers, from simple drip machines to complicated espresso setups. My search for the perfect balance between affordability, user-friendliness, and barista-level quality led me to the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL. Today, I'll walk you through my experience with this espresso machine and let you know if it lives up to the hype.

First Impressions of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

The very first thing that struck me about the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL was its build. Breville has a way of designing kitchen appliances that feel both premium and approachable, and this espresso machine is no exception. It has a brushed stainless steel exterior that feels durable and looks sleek on my countertop. When I unboxed it, I could tell right away that this machine was made for someone who cares deeply about making quality espresso at home.

The controls are intuitive and laid out in a way that makes the experience quite user-friendly. The machine comes with all the accessories you could ask for, including a milk jug, various filters, and even cleaning tools. I loved that they thought of these extras, as it made the whole setup feel like a premium experience.

Setting Up the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

Setting up the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL took me about 20 minutes. There are a few components to put together, such as attaching the portafilter and inserting the water tank, but nothing felt overly complex. The instruction manual was detailed and clear, making it simple to follow even for someone who hasn't worked with an espresso machine like this before.

One of my favorite features is the dual boiler setup. This means you can steam milk and extract espresso simultaneously, which is perfect for those who want to create drinks like lattes and cappuccinos without waiting for one function to finish before starting the next. The ability to make everything in sync makes my morning routine smoother.

Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review - Key Features

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL comes with some impressive features that make it stand out from the competition. The first is, of course, the dual boiler system, which gives you better temperature stability and control compared to single boiler machines. For someone who takes coffee seriously, this feature is a game-changer. It allows me to pull an espresso shot while steaming milk without any noticeable lag or loss of heat.

Another standout feature is the PID temperature control. This allows me to maintain an optimal brewing temperature, which is key for consistent, high-quality espresso shots. You can even adjust the temperature to fine-tune your espresso to your preference. I've found that a slight tweak of a couple of degrees can make a huge difference in flavor, especially if you're working with different coffee beans.

The machine also has an over-pressure valve (OPV), which helps prevent the bitterness that can come from over-extraction. This is one of those features I didn’t think I needed until I used it and realized how much smoother my espresso could taste. It’s this kind of thoughtful detail that shows Breville's commitment to quality.

Ease of Use: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Beginner-Friendly?

If you're a beginner, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL might feel intimidating at first due to all the features and options. However, the interface is easy enough to learn, and the machine includes a lot of automation that takes the guesswork out of making great espresso.

The LCD display gives you precise feedback, and the backlit buttons make it clear what to press for each function. I also appreciate the helpful prompts that pop up on the display—like when it’s time to run a cleaning cycle or when the water level is getting low. If you’ve ever used a manual espresso machine, you know how much these reminders can simplify the experience.

The pre-infusion function is also a nice touch. It introduces low-pressure water to the coffee grounds before increasing to full pressure, which results in a better extraction. For me, it’s been a game-changer, especially when using freshly ground coffee.

Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review - Steaming Milk Performance

Steaming milk with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is straightforward. The steam wand heats up quickly and produces a consistent flow of steam, which means that it’s easy to create microfoam for latte art. This machine offers an incredible level of control when it comes to frothing milk, which is crucial for creating silky-smooth lattes or frothy cappuccinos.

I’ve tried steaming milk on several espresso machines, and honestly, the performance on this one is up there with some of the best. The steam pressure is powerful, and the dual boiler system ensures that there's no wait time between brewing and steaming—a huge bonus if you're making drinks for multiple people.

Cleaning and Maintenance of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

As with any espresso machine, regular maintenance is essential to keep the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL running smoothly. Fortunately, Breville makes it pretty easy. The machine has an automatic descaling feature, which I found to be extremely helpful. It will prompt you when it’s time for a cleaning cycle, which takes the pressure off of having to remember those details yourself.

The removable drip tray and the water reservoir are easy to clean, and the machine also comes with cleaning tablets and a water filter, which help extend the life of the machine. One thing that stands out is how easy it is to disassemble and put back together when you need to clean it—it's obvious that Breville designed this machine with home baristas in mind.

Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review - Performance in Daily Use

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL delivers consistently good espresso. Whether I’m using fresh, oily beans or older, dry ones, the machine's features help me get a consistent shot. The ability to customize the shot volume and temperature has made a big difference in finding what works best for my palate.

Another thing I appreciate is the fast heat-up time. Unlike some other machines I've tried, I don't have to wait around for 20 minutes to pull a shot. It’s ready in just a few minutes, which is ideal for someone with a busy morning schedule.

Pros and Cons of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

Pros:

• Dual Boiler System: Ability to steam and extract simultaneously.
• PID Temperature Control: Provides temperature stability and fine-tuning options.
• User-Friendly LCD Display: Makes the brewing process simple and accessible.
• Great Milk Steaming: Consistent steam pressure for frothing milk.
• Customization Options: Adjust shot volume, temperature, and pre-infusion.

Cons:

• Size: This machine is a bit bulky, so make sure you have the counter space.
• Learning Curve: For beginners, it might take a little while to understand all of the features.
• Price: It’s not the cheapest espresso machine on the market, but the quality justifies the cost.

Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review - How It Compares to Other Machines

In comparison to other espresso machines in the same price range, I think the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL really stands out for its dual boiler system. Many machines in this bracket only have a single boiler or use a thermoblock, which impacts both brewing and steaming consistency.

I’ve also owned the Breville Barista Express, which is a great machine, but I eventually outgrew it as I wanted more control over my shots and milk frothing. The Barista Express is more of an all-in-one beginner's machine, while the BES920XL offers much more flexibility, particularly for someone who wants to master their home espresso game.

Another machine I considered was the Rancilio Silvia, which is often recommended for serious home baristas. However, the lack of a dual boiler in that machine led me to choose the Breville. The convenience of not having to wait between brewing and steaming made a huge difference to me, especially during mornings when I’m trying to make multiple drinks.

Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review - Who Is This Machine For?

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is definitely aimed at the enthusiast home barista. If you love espresso and want the capability to brew cafe-quality drinks without a lot of compromises, this machine is for you. It's great if you’re someone who appreciates the details—like being able to adjust temperature settings and control every aspect of the brewing process.

However, it may not be the best choice if you're brand new to espresso. There are some simpler options out there that are a better fit for beginners. That said, if you’re committed to learning, the BES920XL will give you all the tools you need to grow into an expert.

Product Review Conclusion: Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

Overall, I’ve been very happy with my Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL. It strikes the perfect balance between ease of use and control, making it a fantastic choice for someone who wants to get serious about making espresso at home. The dual boiler system is a real standout feature, offering the flexibility to create cafe-quality drinks without a lot of waiting.

Yes, there’s a bit of a learning curve, and yes, it’s a bit of an investment, but in my opinion, it's worth every penny. I’ve tried cheaper machines that left me wanting more and more expensive machines that felt overly complicated, but the BES920XL hits a sweet spot that makes it perfect for the passionate home barista.

Whether you’re perfecting your morning latte or impressing friends with a cappuccino, this machine makes it easy to craft drinks that rival those from your favorite coffee shop. If you’re ready to elevate your at-home coffee game, I highly recommend giving the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL a serious look.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

Q: How easy is it to use the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL for beginners?

A: The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL might seem intimidating for beginners due to its advanced features, but it is quite user-friendly. The LCD display and prompts guide you through the process, and there are several automatic functions that make it easier to get started. While there is a learning curve, the machine offers enough automation to help beginners grow their skills over time.

Q: What makes the dual boiler system special?

A: The dual boiler system allows you to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously. This feature provides better temperature control and consistency, making it ideal for those who want to create cafe-quality drinks at home without waiting for one task to finish before starting another.

Q: How often do I need to clean the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?

A: Regular maintenance is essential to keep the machine running smoothly. The BES920XL has an automatic descaling feature and will prompt you when it’s time for a cleaning cycle. It’s recommended to clean the drip tray and water reservoir weekly, while descaling is typically required every few months, depending on your usage and water hardness.

Q: Can I adjust the temperature on the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?

A: Yes, the BES920XL features PID temperature control, allowing you to fine-tune the brewing temperature. This means you can adjust it to suit the specific beans you are using, ensuring the best possible extraction and flavor.

Q: How does the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL compare to other machines like the Rancilio Silvia?

A: The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL has a dual boiler system, whereas the Rancilio Silvia has a single boiler. This means the BES920XL can steam milk and brew espresso simultaneously, making it more convenient, especially when preparing multiple drinks. Additionally, the BES920XL offers more automation and user-friendly features, while the Silvia is more manual and requires more hands-on control.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL worth the price?

A: The BES920XL is a bit of an investment, but for serious home baristas, it’s definitely worth it. The dual boiler, PID temperature control, and customizable options provide a level of performance that is hard to find in other machines at this price point. If you’re passionate about espresso and want a machine that can deliver consistently high-quality results, this one is a great choice.

Q: Can I use pre-ground coffee with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?

A: Yes, you can use pre-ground coffee with the BES920XL. However, for the best results, it's recommended to use freshly ground coffee. The freshness of the grind has a significant impact on the flavor and crema of your espresso, and pairing this machine with a quality grinder can elevate your coffee experience.

Q: How long does it take for the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL to heat up?

A: The BES920XL has a relatively quick heat-up time. It takes about 10-15 minutes to be fully ready for optimal brewing, though you can begin pulling shots sooner if you’re in a rush. This is faster than many traditional espresso machines, which can take up to 20 minutes or longer to reach a stable temperature.