Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

In the realm of home espresso machines, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL stands out as a beacon of high performance and precision. As an avid coffee enthusiast, I've tested numerous machines over the years, but the BES920XL has captured my interest for its commercial-grade features packaged within a machine suited for home use. Let's dive into an in-depth review of this espresso marvel.

Unboxing and First Impressions

My journey with the Breville BES920XL started with unboxing, an experience that set the tone for the quality I was about to encounter. Packaged meticulously, the machine arrived without a scratch. It exudes a robust, professional feel the moment you lay eyes on it. The stainless steel finish not only looks sleek but promises durability and easy maintenance. 

Design and Build Quality

The design of the BES920XL is both elegant and functional, with thoughtful considerations that cater to the discerning barista. It's compact enough for most kitchen countertops, yet it houses a powerful dual boiler system that is typically found in much larger or commercial machines. The quality of construction is apparent, from the solid control knobs to the heavy-duty portafilter that feels great in hand.

Key Features

Dual Boiler System

The standout feature of the BES920XL is its dual boiler system, allowing you to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously. This not only speeds up the process but also ensures that the espresso shot and milk are ready at the same time, essential for crafting the perfect latte or cappuccino. 

PID Temperature Control

Precision in temperature is crucial for pulling the perfect espresso shot. The BES920XL features a PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controller, which keeps the water temperature within a tight range. This technology is a game-changer, ensuring consistent espresso quality every time.

Over-Pressure Valve (OPV)

Another professional-grade feature is the OPV, which limits the maximum pressure during extraction, preventing bitter flavors. This is a feature usually reserved for commercial machines, and its inclusion here emphasizes Breville’s commitment to espresso quality.

Performance: Espresso and Steam Quality

The BES920XL shines when put to the test. The espresso shots I've pulled are consistently exceptional, with a rich crema and a balanced profile. The dual boilers provide a stable temperature, which is crucial for consistency. The steam wand, powered by its own dedicated boiler, produces powerful steam, perfect for creating microfoam milk that’s ideal for latte art. 

Ease of Use

Despite its advanced features, the BES920XL is surprisingly user-friendly. The LCD display provides all necessary information at a glance, including water temperature and shot time. The interface is intuitive, making it easy to adjust settings according to your taste preferences. 

Cleaning and Maintenance

Maintaining the BES920XL is straightforward. The machine alerts you when it’s time to clean or descale, and the included cleaning tools make the process simple. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the machine performs well over time, and Breville has made this as painless as possible.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Dual boiler system for simultaneous brewing and steaming.
• PID temperature control for precise heat management.
• Commercial-grade features in a home-use machine.
• Robust build and sleek design.

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to entry-level models.
• Requires space on the countertop due to its dimensions.
• Can be intimidating for beginners due to its advanced settings.

Conclusion

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is an exemplary home espresso machine that caters to both aspiring and experienced baristas. It brings professional-grade craftsmanship and control to the domestic scene, allowing for café-quality espressos at home. Whether you're refining your barista skills or simply enjoy a superior cup of coffee, the BES920XL is a worthwhile investment.

Final Thoughts

Having used the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL extensively, I am thoroughly impressed by its capabilities. It strikes a fine balance between advanced features and user-friendly operation, making it accessible for anyone serious about their home espresso setup. For those looking to elevate their coffee experience, the BES920XL is a compelling choice, promising many years of excellent coffee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL different from other espresso machines?
A: The BES920XL features a dual boiler system, allowing simultaneous brewing and steaming, which is rare in home espresso machines. It also includes professional-grade features like PID temperature control and an Over-Pressure Valve (OPV) for consistent and high-quality espresso extraction.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL suitable for beginners?
A: While it includes advanced features, the BES920XL is user-friendly with its intuitive LCD display and clear instructions. However, beginners may need to spend some time learning the machine's settings and proper espresso techniques to fully utilize its capabilities.

Q: How much counter space does the BES920XL require?
A: The machine measures approximately 16.25 inches wide and 15 inches tall. It’s compact for a dual boiler system but still requires a dedicated space on your countertop.

Q: What kind of maintenance does the Breville BES920XL require?
A: Regular cleaning and descaling are necessary to maintain the machine’s performance. The BES920XL provides alerts when cleaning or descaling is needed, and Breville includes tools to make the process straightforward.

Q: Can I use pre-ground coffee with the BES920XL?
A: Yes, you can use pre-ground coffee, but for the best results, freshly ground beans are recommended. Pairing the machine with a high-quality grinder will enhance the flavor and consistency of your espresso.

Q: Does the Breville BES920XL come with a built-in grinder?
A: No, the BES920XL does not have a built-in grinder. A separate grinder is required for optimal espresso preparation.

Q: How long does it take for the machine to heat up?
A: The BES920XL heats up in about 5-7 minutes, thanks to its efficient dual boiler system. This is relatively quick for a machine with such advanced capabilities.

Q: Is the machine noisy during operation?
A: The BES920XL produces some noise, especially during the steaming process, but it’s comparable to other high-performance espresso machines.

Q: What types of drinks can I make with the BES920XL?
A: The BES920XL is versatile and allows you to make espressos, lattes, cappuccinos, Americanos, and more. The powerful steam wand is ideal for creating microfoam for latte art.

Q: Does the Breville BES920XL come with a warranty?
A: Yes, the machine typically comes with a 2-year limited warranty, but it’s always a good idea to confirm this with the retailer or manufacturer.