The Breville BES920XL Dual Boiler Espresso Machine is a high-performance espresso maker designed for coffee enthusiasts who desire café-quality beverages at home. With its advanced features and user-friendly design, it has become a popular choice among both amateur and seasoned baristas.
What is the Breville BES920XL Dual Boiler Espresso Machine?
The Breville BES920XL is a semi-automatic espresso machine that boasts a dual boiler system, allowing users to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously. This capability is essential for crafting lattes, cappuccinos, and other espresso-based drinks efficiently. The machine’s design incorporates several professional-grade features, making it suitable for home use while delivering exceptional results.
Models of the Breville BES920 Series
The BES920 series primarily includes the BES920XL model. However, Breville offers variations in color and region-specific configurations:
BES920XL: The standard model available in brushed stainless steel.
BES920CBXL: A variant available in cranberry red, offering the same features as the BES920XL but with a different exterior finish.
These models share the same core specifications and performance capabilities, with differences mainly in aesthetics.
Key Features of the BES920XL
Dual Boiler System
The standout feature of the BES920XL is its dual boiler system. This setup includes a dedicated espresso boiler and a separate steam boiler, both made of stainless steel. The espresso boiler is PID temperature-controlled, ensuring precise and consistent water temperature for optimal extraction. Simultaneously, the steam boiler provides powerful steam for milk frothing, allowing for the preparation of espresso and steamed milk at the same time.
Temperature Control
Both boilers are equipped with PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controllers. This technology maintains stable temperatures, which is crucial for achieving consistent espresso shots. The PID system minimizes temperature fluctuations, ensuring that each extraction is as precise as the last.
58mm Commercial-Style Portafilter
The BES920XL comes with a 58mm stainless steel portafilter, a size commonly found in commercial espresso machines. This larger size allows for a 22g dose of coffee, promoting a fuller-bodied and more flavorful espresso.
Low-Pressure Pre-Infusion
The machine features a low-pressure pre-infusion system that gradually increases water pressure to the coffee grounds. This process ensures even saturation and extraction, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the espresso.
Programmable Shot Control
Users can program shot volumes and durations to suit their preferences. This customization allows for the replication of specific espresso profiles, catering to individual taste preferences.
Steam Wand and Hot Water Spout
The BES920XL is equipped with a commercial-style steam wand that produces powerful steam for creating microfoam, ideal for latte art. Additionally, it includes a dedicated hot water spout for preparing Americanos or teas.
User-Friendly Interface
The machine features an intuitive LCD screen that displays essential information such as shot time, temperature, and shot count. This interface simplifies the brewing process, making it accessible for users at all skill levels.
Weight: Approximately 33 lbs
Power: 1700W
Voltage: 120V
Boiler Material: Stainless Steel
Portafilter Size: 58mm
Steam Boiler Temperature Range: 265°F – 285°F
PID Temperature Control: Yes (for both boilers)
Pre-Infusion: Low-pressure
Shot Control: Programmable
Steam Wand: Commercial-style
Hot Water Spout: Yes
Price Range
The Breville BES920XL Dual Boiler Espresso Machine is priced around $1,599.95. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. For instance, Whole Latte Love offers the machine at this price point.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Dual Boiler System: Allows simultaneous brewing and steaming, enhancing efficiency.
PID Temperature Control: Ensures consistent and precise temperatures for optimal espresso extraction.
Commercial-Style Features: Includes a 58mm portafilter and powerful steam wand, providing a professional brewing experience.
User-Friendly Interface: The LCD screen simplifies operation and customization.
Build Quality: Stainless steel construction offers durability and a sleek appearance.
Cons
Size and Weight: The machine’s dimensions and weight may require ample counter space and may be challenging to move.
Price: At approximately $1,599.95, it may be considered expensive for some consumers.
Learning Curve: While user-friendly, the machine’s advanced features may require time to master for beginners.
Conclusion
The Breville BES920XL Dual Boiler Espresso Machine stands out as a top-tier choice for home baristas seeking professional-grade espresso capabilities. Its dual boiler system, precise temperature control, and commercial-style features deliver exceptional performance and versatility. While it comes at a premium price, the investment is justified for those passionate about crafting high-quality espresso beverages at home.
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