Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL Review

The Learning Curve: From Beginner to Confident Barista

As a coffee enthusiast, I've always enjoyed the art of crafting the perfect cup of espresso. My journey with the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL has been an exciting one, filled with discoveries and the satisfaction of creating café-quality drinks at home. This machine isn't just about making coffee; it's about mastering a craft.

The Learning Curve: From Beginner to Confident Barista

When I first unboxed the BES920XL, I’ll admit I was a bit overwhelmed. With its array of features and programmable settings, it felt like stepping into a professional coffee shop. But Breville has done an excellent job of making these advanced features approachable. The clear instructions and intuitive interface made it easy to understand the basics, and over time, I’ve grown more confident experimenting with different settings.

Exploring Coffee Varieties

One of the most exciting parts of owning the BES920XL has been experimenting with different coffee beans and grind sizes. The precise temperature control and pre-infusion settings allow me to extract the unique flavors of each bean. For example, lighter roasts shine with their floral and citrus notes, while darker roasts deliver deep, chocolatey richness. This machine truly brings out the best in every coffee.

The Steam Wand: A Game-Changer for Milk-Based Drinks

As someone who enjoys the occasional cappuccino or flat white, the steam wand has been a standout feature for me. It's incredibly responsive, allowing for precise control when frothing milk. With some practice, I’ve even managed to create basic latte art—a skill I never thought I’d master at home. The microfoam quality rivals what I’ve seen in high-end coffee shops, adding a touch of elegance to my morning routine.

Practical Features for Daily Use

Breville has clearly designed the BES920XL with practicality in mind. The dual boiler system is a game-changer, especially during busy mornings. Being able to pull a shot and steam milk simultaneously saves time without compromising on quality. Additionally, the alerts for maintenance, like descaling and emptying the drip tray, ensure that I stay on top of upkeep without hassle.

The Importance of Routine Maintenance

Speaking of maintenance, I’ve learned that caring for this machine is key to keeping it in top form. Regular cleaning and descaling are simple enough, thanks to the machine’s user-friendly design. The removable drip tray, easy-to-access boilers, and clear instructions make maintenance less of a chore and more of a routine.

Who Is This Machine For?

In my opinion, the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL is ideal for someone who’s serious about coffee but doesn’t want to spend thousands on a professional machine. It offers a balance of advanced features and user-friendliness, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced coffee enthusiasts. If you enjoy experimenting with your coffee and want to elevate your home setup, this machine is worth considering.

Small Improvements I’d Like to See

No product is perfect, and the BES920XL is no exception. While it’s a fantastic machine overall, the initial setup can be a bit daunting. It took me a few tries to dial in the grind size and temperature settings for my preferred beans. Additionally, the machine requires a fair amount of counter space, so if you have a smaller kitchen, you’ll need to plan accordingly. 

The Joy of Crafting Coffee at Home

Owning the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL has transformed the way I approach coffee. It’s no longer just a morning ritual; it’s an experience. I’ve found joy in the process of dialing in the perfect shot, experimenting with latte art, and sharing café-quality drinks with friends and family. It’s become a hobby that I look forward to every day.

Final Thoughts

The Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL strikes an excellent balance between professional-level performance and home-friendly design. It’s not just a coffee machine; it’s a tool for creativity and exploration. While it does require an investment of time and effort to master, the rewards are well worth it. For anyone looking to elevate their home coffee game, this machine is a worthy contender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, the machine is beginner-friendly despite its advanced features. It has an intuitive interface, clear instructions, and programmable settings that help newcomers understand and master the basics of espresso making. However, there might be a slight learning curve initially.

Q: Can the BES920XL brew and steam simultaneously?
A: Absolutely! The dual boiler system allows you to brew espresso and steam milk at the same time, making it perfect for creating lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based drinks without waiting between tasks.

Q: How often does the BES920XL need maintenance?
A: Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal performance. The machine provides alerts for tasks like descaling, emptying the drip tray, and cleaning. Depending on usage, descaling is usually required every few months, while daily cleaning of the steam wand and drip tray is recommended.

Q: Is the machine compatible with pre-ground coffee or does it require a grinder?
A: The BES920XL works with both pre-ground coffee and freshly ground coffee. However, for the best results, it’s recommended to use a quality grinder to achieve the correct grind size and consistency for espresso.

Q: How large is the water reservoir, and can it be refilled easily?
A: The water reservoir has a 2.5-liter capacity, which is sufficient for multiple drinks. It can be refilled from the front or back, offering flexibility depending on your kitchen setup.

Q: Can I adjust the brew temperature on the BES920XL?
A: Yes, the machine allows precise control of the brew temperature in 1°F increments, which is ideal for experimenting with different beans and roast levels.

Q: Does the machine come with accessories?
A: Yes, the BES920XL includes essential accessories such as a stainless steel milk jug, cleaning tools, a tamper, and a set of filter baskets for both single and double shots.

Q: How much counter space does the BES920XL require?
A: The machine has a compact footprint compared to commercial espresso machines but still requires a dedicated space. Its dimensions are approximately 14.7" x 14.8" x 14.7".

Q: Can the steam wand produce microfoam for latte art?
A: Yes, the steam wand is designed to create high-quality microfoam suitable for latte art. With practice, you can achieve café-quality results at home.

Q: What makes the BES920XL stand out compared to other espresso machines?
A: The BES920XL combines dual boilers, precise temperature control, and user-friendly features at a reasonable price point. This makes it a great choice for home baristas looking for professional-level capabilities without breaking the bank.