It is true that semi-automatic coffee machines are the best choice for most coffee enthusiasts and lovers. With these models, you have much more control than with automatic models, and you don’t have to undergo detailed training like with manual machines. And the Breville Dual Boiler 900 vs 920 is one of today’s hottest topics in the market.
My own testing shows that the Breville Dual Boiler 920 is the better machine out of the two. There are several advantages to the 920 over the 900, including a steam boiler that can be adjusted. This lets you control your frothing, work with shot duration timers and descale your shots quickly and easily at home to achieve cafe-quality results.
Despite my preference for the 920, it was a very tight-knit competition. As one of the original Dual Boiler models, the Dual Boiler 900 was a ground-breaker when it was released. In addition to the dual boilers, this model still makes a great choice for home kitchens as it gives you both delicious espresso shots and steaming milk simultaneously.
Breville Dual Boiler 900 vs 920: Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Breville Dual Boiler 900 vs 920: The Differences
In light of the fact that the 920 is simply an upgraded version of the 900, what are the precise differences between the two? Despite Breville’s Dual Boiler 900’s popularity, there were some complaints about it that had been addressed when the Breville producers released the 920. That is the main reason why the 920 knocks the old 900 model out 4-0.
Adjustable steam temperature
The Winner: Breville Dual Boiler 920
Breville equipped the 920 with an adjustable steam boiler as the first upgrade. In so far as the steam output of the 900 models is concerned, the most common complaint from customers is that its performance is quite poor and even lacking. In contrast, when you use the 920, you are able to control the steam output to your specifications. This means that it will be possible for you to adjust the density of the froth generated in your milk.
In conclusion, if you are in the habit of making milk coffee drinks, the 920 is an excellent choice since it is more controllable than the 900. The 920 gets the point here because milk is popular among coffee lovers.
Shot control
The Winner: Breville Dual Boiler 920
It is essential that you have complete control over your espresso brewing process in order to create high-quality espressos. The Dual Boiler 920 is also unique in that you can choose between measuring the volume of water in your shot as well as the time it takes. In terms of controlling their shoot, everyone has different methods. That is to say, there are different preferences for every brewer. Finally, it is all about how you are going to pull the trigger, and how you would like to do it.
A 900 would satisfy your coffee needs if volumetric measurements are convenient for you. Nevertheless, because the 920 offers two shot sizes, a volumetric shot and a duration shot, it will definitely provide a greater level of flexibility for coffee drinkers.
Accessories
The Winner: Breville Dual Boiler 920
There is almost no difference between the accessories that come with the 900 and the 920. Approximately 750ml stainless steel carafes, filters, cleaning implements, and an Allen key are included with each. There is, however, an additional tool known as the Razor Trimming Tool that is included with the 920.
The purpose of a tool such as this is to shave off excess coffee from your shot. Although it’s not strictly an essential feature, selecting the Breville Dual Boiler 920 machine with this feature is a great advantage.
Warranty
The Winner: Breville Dual Boiler 920
This is yet again a case where the 920 model beats out the 900 model. It doesn’t come as a surprise to learn that the 920 can boast a better warranty, since it is supposed to be an advanced replacement for the original model. In order to safeguard against factory defects, customers were provided with a limited 1-year warranty when purchasing the Dual Boiler 900. In this case, everything worked out fine, because Breville runs an outstanding quality control department, which rarely causes any complaints from its customers.
Nevertheless, a 2-year warranty is provided with the Breville Dual Boiler 920 for an even wider safety net. Due to the complexity of espresso machines, it is impossible to predict when something may go wrong. Therefore, a better guarantee is a major plus. In these regards, the 920 easily beats the 900 if you are looking for a machine that is protected against defects for an extended period of time.
Breville Dual Boiler 900 vs 920: The Similarities
These two coffee machines share quite many features in common as you can see from the comparison table. The reason behind this is that the 920 was designed to replace the 900 with a more powerful version. It took the market by storm when the Dual Boiler 900 was first introduced but was eventually discontinued the 920 models. To better understand the differences between them, let’s look at the things they have in common.
I think we ought to start by checking out the heating system. Ultimately, the name Dual Boiler Coffee Machine derives from the triple heating system. There are two boilers pre-installed in both machines; one is designed exclusively for pulling espresso shots, the other exclusively for pulling milk. Additionally, with their active heating system and 58mm group head, these machines offer you thermal stability when shooting. An espresso shot will taste better if the temperature is stable during the extraction.
The extraction pressure is also regulated on both machines. Using an Italian pump with 15 bars, the two machines keep the pressure of water at an optimal 9 bars, which is perfect for an espresso shot.
Due to their semi-automatic nature, they provide more control than standard automatic espresso machines without requiring manual intervention. Therefore, it is possible to customize the temperature according to your preferences, as well as use the steam wand to make cappuccinos and lattes!
Quick Rundown of the Breville Dual Boiler 920
- Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide (provided below in PDF) before first use
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Quick Rundown of the Breville Dual Boiler 900
- Dual stainless steel boilers and dual Italian pumps for simultaneous espresso extraction and steaming
- Over-Pressure Valve (OPV) limits extraction pressure
- Electronic PID temperature control for precise water temperature, plus actively heated group head and heat exchanger (HX) to maintain thermal stability
- Backlit LCD displays brew temperature, shot clock or time. Assists with programming shot temperature and volume, pre-infusion duration and power, and auto-start time
- Drop-down swivel foot lowers a wheel that lifts the machine upwards for convenient access to the water tank (both rear and top-fill)
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Product Videos
References
- Breville Dual Boiler BES920XEL from Breville https://www.breville.com.ph/the-dual-boiler
I’m Floyd J. Alcock, an experienced barista with a deep love for coffee. I curate personalized coffee experiences, guiding customers through diverse flavor profiles and suggesting ideal brewing methods. My extensive knowledge of espresso machines enables me to recommend the best equipment to match specific needs and budgets. Sharing my expertise and passion with coffee enthusiasts brings immense satisfaction. I look forward to continuing my journey of coffee discovery with every customer I serve, fostering connections over a shared love for this magical beverage.