Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

As a dedicated coffee enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours perfecting my brewing skills and searching for that perfect cup. The journey took me through multiple machines, from entry-level espresso makers to semi-automatic wonders. But it wasn't until I got my hands on the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL that I felt I was truly able to elevate my coffee experience at home. This review is a deep dive into my personal experience with this machine, including what makes it stand out and where it could improve. 

First Impressions of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

From the moment I unboxed the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, it felt like an upgrade. The first thing I noticed was the build quality. Its sleek stainless steel casing not only looked professional but also gave off the sense of durability that I had been longing for. Setting it up was a breeze, and I was instantly impressed by how intuitive the process was. I appreciated the thoughtful touches Breville added, such as the clear user manual and the ample accessories—including the tamper, the Razor dose trimming tool, and a quality stainless steel milk jug.

The BES920XL is a visually impressive machine that is more than just eye candy. As I arranged it on my kitchen counter, I could sense that this machine was designed for someone who takes their coffee seriously, and I was eager to dive into its features.

Brewing with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

The heart of the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL review is, of course, its brewing performance. As the name suggests, the BES920XL is equipped with dual boilers, which means you can pull a shot of espresso while steaming your milk at the same time—an absolute game changer. Having previously owned a single boiler espresso machine, this was a revelation for me. No more waiting for the machine to switch between brewing and steaming! It made my morning routine faster and far more enjoyable.

The PID temperature control is another feature that I fell in love with almost immediately. The control it offers over the brewing temperature is outstanding, which is crucial for consistent espresso shots. This feature allowed me to experiment with different bean varieties and find the precise temperature that brings out the best flavors in each. For someone like me who loves to geek out over these details, the temperature precision was an absolute delight. 

The Learning Curve: Making the Most of the BES920XL

Like any serious piece of espresso equipment, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL comes with a bit of a learning curve. If you’re transitioning from an entry-level espresso machine, be prepared to spend some time experimenting and perfecting your process. I quickly discovered that while the BES920XL is extremely user-friendly, it rewards those who are willing to take the time to understand it fully.

I found that using freshly ground coffee from a good quality burr grinder is a must for this machine. Paired with my Baratza grinder, the BES920XL produced shots that were rich, flavorful, and layered with beautiful crema. The programmable shot volume and pre-infusion features allowed me to dial in my perfect shot—a level of control that I hadn't experienced before with my previous machines.

Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review: Milk Frothing Experience

One of the main aspects I wanted to cover in this Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL review is milk frothing. If you’re into milk-based espresso drinks like I am, then you’ll be happy to hear that the steam wand on the BES920XL is up to the task. Thanks to the dedicated steam boiler, the wand produces high-pressure steam that makes achieving silky microfoam surprisingly easy.

I had a lot of fun practicing my latte art, and I’ve made great progress thanks to this machine. The ball joint design on the steam wand provides the flexibility needed to achieve the perfect angle for texturing milk—something that isn't always possible with less sophisticated machines. Steaming milk was fast, consistent, and enjoyable, which made preparing cappuccinos and lattes much more rewarding. 

Using the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Day-to-Day

Now that I’ve covered the basics, it’s time to talk about how the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL fits into daily life. One of the features I loved the most was the programmable auto-start. Waking up to a machine that’s already preheated is something that really elevates the entire experience. It was a small detail, but it made a big difference, especially during busy weekday mornings.

Another feature that deserves mention is the large 84-ounce water reservoir. It’s accessible from both the front and back, which makes refilling easy regardless of your kitchen setup. I found myself refilling far less frequently compared to my older machine, and that convenience added up over time.

Maintaining the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

Any Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL review would be incomplete without mentioning maintenance. Espresso machines require regular care to perform at their best, and the BES920XL is no different. Fortunately, Breville has incorporated several features to make maintenance as straightforward as possible. The machine provides alerts for cleaning and descaling, and it even has a dedicated descaling function that makes the process much less intimidating.

I also appreciated the removable drip tray and storage compartment for accessories—everything is organized and within reach. The ‘clean me’ indicator that pops up when it’s time to empty the drip tray is a handy touch, ensuring that upkeep is effortless.

Customization and Control: A Barista's Dream

As someone who likes to experiment, the level of customization offered by the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL was a major highlight. The machine allows for precise adjustments to pre-infusion pressure and duration, shot temperature, and shot volume. This means that, regardless of the type of bean I’m using, I could tweak the settings to get the most out of my coffee.

The pre-infusion feature, in particular, is something I grew to love. It introduces a low-pressure water flow at the start of the extraction, gently expanding the grounds before the full pressure kicks in. This little touch made a big difference in the consistency of my shots, leading to richer flavors and more balanced extractions. It’s those sorts of details that really elevate the BES920XL from a standard home espresso machine to a true barista-grade experience. 

Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review: Challenges and Considerations

Of course, no machine is perfect, and the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is no exception. For one, it’s a relatively large machine that takes up significant counter space. If you have a small kitchen, you might struggle to find a suitable spot for it. Additionally, while the machine is user-friendly for what it is, there is still a learning curve—especially if you’re new to espresso. It can take time to understand how to best use the different settings to achieve the perfect shot.

Another consideration is the price point. The BES920XL is definitely an investment, and it might not be the right choice for casual coffee drinkers. However, if you’re serious about espresso and looking for a machine that can deliver consistent, café-quality drinks, the cost is well worth it.

My Verdict on the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

After using the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL for several months, I can confidently say that it’s one of the best investments I’ve made in my coffee journey. The combination of dual boilers, precise temperature control, and a high-quality steam wand make it a joy to use. The learning curve is part of the experience, and I found that the more I understood about how to use the machine, the more I appreciated its capabilities.

The build quality is excellent, and the level of control it offers makes it a great choice for someone who wants to delve deeper into the craft of making espresso. I’ve enjoyed countless shots with rich crema and perfectly steamed milk for lattes, and I genuinely look forward to using it every day.

Product Review Conclusion: Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

In conclusion, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is a top-tier home espresso machine that combines convenience with professional features. Its dual boilers allow for simultaneous brewing and milk steaming, making it efficient for those busy mornings. The PID temperature control ensures every shot is consistent, and the customization options provide the flexibility to truly craft the perfect coffee experience.

While it does come with a learning curve and takes up considerable counter space, the rewards it offers for those willing to learn are undeniable. The machine is ideal for the coffee lover who wants to enjoy café-quality drinks without leaving their home. Overall, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL delivers on its promise of high-quality, barista-grade coffee, and for that, I wholeheartedly recommend it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL require a lot of maintenance? A: The BES920XL does require regular maintenance, such as cleaning and descaling, to ensure optimal performance. However, Breville has made the process easy with built-in alerts and a dedicated descaling function, so you’ll always know when it’s time to maintain your machine.

Q: Can I steam milk and brew espresso at the same time? A: Yes, the dual boiler system allows you to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously. This is a significant advantage compared to single boiler machines and helps to save time, especially during busy mornings.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL suitable for beginners? A: While the BES920XL is user-friendly, it does come with a learning curve, especially if you're new to espresso making. It’s ideal for those who are willing to learn and experiment to achieve the perfect shot. There are programmable features that can make it easier, but some practice is required.

Q: How much space does the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL take up? A: The BES920XL is relatively large and requires a good amount of counter space. If your kitchen is small, you might find it challenging to fit this machine comfortably.

Q: What kind of grinder should I use with the BES920XL? A: A good quality burr grinder is essential for achieving the best results with the BES920XL. Freshly ground coffee at the right consistency is key to extracting the perfect shot. I recommend pairing it with a grinder like the Baratza for optimal performance.

Q: Can the machine be programmed to start automatically? A: Yes, the BES920XL has a programmable auto-start feature, allowing you to set it to preheat before you wake up. This is a convenient feature that makes your morning routine smoother by having the machine ready when you are.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL worth the investment? A: If you are serious about making high-quality espresso at home, the BES920XL is definitely worth the investment. It offers a great combination of performance, customization, and convenience, making it ideal for coffee enthusiasts who want a barista-level experience at home.