Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

If there's one thing I've learned in my journey as a home barista, it's that a great espresso machine can make all the difference. Today, I'm diving deep into my experience with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, which I believe could be the key to unlocking the perfect espresso experience right in your own kitchen. In this review, I will walk you through every aspect of this machine, from setup to steaming milk, and give you an honest account of what it's like to use it on a day-to-day basis. Tips on Using a single basket with a Breville or Sage home espresso machine

Unboxing the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

When I first got my hands on the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, I was excited but slightly intimidated. The box was substantial, giving me a good sense that this machine was built to last. Right away, I noticed Breville's attention to detail in packaging. Everything was neat, and the machine had that sleek stainless steel look that I knew would fit perfectly in my kitchen. It wasn't just an appliance—it felt like I was adding a piece of craftsmanship to my home.

The first thing I did was carefully take out each accessory. The BES920XL came with a comprehensive range of tools: portafilter, different filter baskets, milk jug, water hardness test strip, and even descaling powder. For a first-time user, these accessories can feel overwhelming, but Breville does an excellent job providing everything you need for that ideal espresso shot. Learn How to steam milk on the Breville Barista Express

Setting Up the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL: A Breeze or a Challenge?

Setting up the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL was surprisingly straightforward for an espresso machine of this caliber. I’ve had experience with entry-level espresso machines before, and I have to say this was by far the easiest advanced machine to get up and running. Breville gives you a step-by-step guide for setup, which makes a big difference if you're new to dual boiler systems.

The machine has a 2.5-liter water reservoir that can be accessed from the top or back, and I loved the flexibility that offered. Whether your machine is nestled under a cabinet or sitting on a kitchen island, you can fill it with ease. It’s clear Breville has thought through every possible kitchen layout. I ran the initial setup cycle, and within about 10 minutes, the machine was primed and ready. Know How to steam milk on the Breville

Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review: Brewing Performance

When it comes to brewing, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL truly shines. The dual boiler system allows you to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously, which was a game-changer for me. No more waiting around for the temperature to shift between pulling a shot and frothing milk—everything happens quickly and efficiently.

What I loved most was the level of control I had over each shot. The PID temperature control means you can adjust the brew temperature to within a single degree. This kind of precision is what sets this machine apart from many others on the market. During my initial test runs, I experimented with different temperatures and doses, and the BES920XL was responsive each time, producing a rich crema with well-rounded flavors. I noticed that even slight tweaks made a difference in the final cup—a true testament to this machine’s capabilities. Tips on How to change the brew temperature on Breville/Sage Barista Express

Steaming Milk with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

Steaming milk is an area where many espresso machines fall short. Either they lack power or consistency, or they take ages to get up to steaming temperature. The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL, however, has a dedicated steam boiler that keeps the process quick and consistent.

The steam wand was impressive. It’s a traditional wand that produces velvety microfoam, perfect for creating latte art. Now, I’m by no means an expert in free-pour designs, but with the BES920XL, I’ve actually managed to create something that resembles a heart—a big deal for someone like me! What’s also great is the steam wand’s range of motion. You can tilt it easily to get the right angle for stretching milk, and it has the power to create the right texture for both cappuccinos and lattes.

The Convenience Features: Little Things That Add Up

One of the things I didn't expect to love so much about the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL was the convenience features it offers. The machine comes with a digital timer, which allows you to time your shots automatically. This is especially helpful if you’re trying to dial in your espresso and need to keep track of extraction times for consistency.

There’s also a pre-infusion feature that gradually increases pressure to expand the coffee grounds before full extraction. This leads to a more even extraction and, ultimately, a better cup. It's subtle, but it's one of those professional features that make this machine feel like it belongs in a cafe as much as it does in my kitchen.

Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review: Maintenance

For all its sophistication, Breville has made the BES920XL remarkably easy to maintain. I’m the type of person who forgets to descale my espresso machine until it’s way overdue, so the machine's built-in reminder system has been a blessing. It prompts you when it’s time to descale or clean, taking the guesswork out of maintenance.

The drip tray is large enough that I’m not constantly emptying it, and it even has a small “Empty Me!” indicator that pops up when it needs attention. The removable water tank and the ability to drain the boilers make deep cleaning simpler than it sounds. All in all, it’s a machine designed to keep you enjoying coffee, not just maintaining hardware.

How Does It Compare to Other Machines?

Having owned and tried other espresso machines in the past, such as the Rancilio Silvia and the Gaggia Classic, I can confidently say that the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL offers more features that appeal to home baristas. The Silvia and Classic are great in their own right but lack the dual boiler system that really sets the Breville apart.

With a machine like the Gaggia Classic, I’d often find myself waiting for it to cool down after steaming before I could pull another shot. The dual boilers in the BES920XL eliminate that wait entirely, and the PID control provides far more temperature stability than other machines I’ve tried. Yes, it’s a bit pricier, but you’re paying for features that elevate the entire espresso-making experience.

Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Worth the Investment?

The keyword here is “dual boiler,” and it’s a feature that makes a world of difference. As someone who’s serious about coffee but not quite ready to splurge on a $3,000 machine, the BES920XL hits a sweet spot. It offers professional-grade capabilities at a fraction of the cost, and while it still represents a significant investment, the value is apparent in the results.

The programmable settings, ease of use, and robust performance of this machine are difficult to beat for the price point. The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is ideal for anyone who wants to level up their home espresso game without getting lost in the weeds of manual lever machines or investing in prohibitively expensive professional gear.

Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review: Common Issues

No product is perfect, and the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is no exception. One issue I’ve encountered is the initial learning curve. If you’re coming from a pod machine or an entry-level espresso maker, it may take some time to get used to dialing in your grind size, dose, and brew time.

Another point worth mentioning is the maintenance requirement. While the reminders help, this machine does require regular descaling to keep everything functioning smoothly. If you’re someone who wants an espresso machine with minimal upkeep, this could be a downside. However, I personally feel that the results—consistently excellent espresso—are well worth the effort.

Product Review Conclusion: Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL has genuinely transformed my coffee routine. It brings the consistency and precision of a cafe setup into my home, and it does so without requiring a degree in mechanical engineering to operate. The dual boiler system, PID control, and steam wand are standout features that make a big difference in the quality of espresso you can produce.

Is it perfect? No, but it’s very close. If you’re ready to take the leap into home espresso and want a machine that provides control without being overwhelming, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is absolutely worth considering. It offers everything you need to make incredible espresso, and it makes the entire process enjoyable, from setup to sipping.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL

Q: What makes the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL different from other espresso machines?
A: The BES920XL features a dual boiler system, allowing you to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously. It also offers PID temperature control for precise temperature adjustments, making it stand out from other machines that often lack these advanced features.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL difficult to set up?
A: Not at all. Breville provides a detailed step-by-step guide for setting up the machine, and most users find it relatively straightforward. The 2.5-liter water reservoir is also conveniently designed for easy filling from either the front or back.

Q: How does the dual boiler system improve the brewing experience?
A: The dual boiler system allows you to steam milk and brew espresso at the same time, which speeds up the entire coffee-making process and ensures that both the espresso and milk are at their optimal temperatures for flavor and texture.

Q: How often do I need to clean or descale the Breville BES920XL?
A: The machine will alert you when it needs to be cleaned or descaled. Typically, descaling is required every few months, depending on your water hardness and frequency of use. The reminder system makes it easy to stay on top of maintenance.

Q: Can beginners use the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL?
A: Yes, beginners can use it, but there may be an initial learning curve when it comes to dialing in the right grind size and dose. However, the digital shot timer and pre-infusion settings help simplify the process, making it accessible to both beginners and more experienced users.

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL worth the price?
A: Absolutely, especially if you’re serious about espresso. While it is an investment, the machine's dual boiler system, temperature stability, and ease of use make it well worth the cost for those wanting to achieve a cafe-quality experience at home.

Q: Does the BES920XL come with accessories?
A: Yes, it comes with a portafilter, multiple filter baskets, a milk jug, a water hardness test strip, and descaling powder—everything you need to get started making espresso.