For example, they new include “THE RAZOR” (cue dramatic sting music), a gold-colored metal piece you run over the loaded portafilter in order to ensure your dose isn’t too large. I’m not a fan of large applianced failing once a year, then having to go into the shop.That said, Breville says that the 920xl resolves some of these issues – a new portafilter design and a few other changes probably speak to their experience with the 900xl’s. For my next espresso machine, I will definitely do some research and see if I can find a solidly-constructed alternative that might feature fewer nifty perks, but which might last much longer. I am not sure that any of these units are going to be in operation in ten years. However, I feel like Breville has opted for cheaper internal parts and components to keep this thing in this price range. That one encountered a similar problem and they send a third, which is working fine.So here’s my dilemma – I love this machine and its features. Again Breville shipped out a replacement asap. This cracked and shed a small, 2 mm section, rendering the machine unusable. There is a black plastic/rubber piece that sits between the metal group head and portafilter. To be as specific as possible, the portafilter has the two metal notches that slide into the group head to lock it into place. Then a few months later, a plastic piece around the group head failed, chipping so that the machine could no longer maintain pressure, and sprayed hot water and grounds everywhere. No worries.When the 920 came out, I upgraded. I got a rep within two minutes, and they swapped the machines out. I called Breville, and their customer service was AWESOME. It’s not exactly cheap, but I’m not convinced that Breville builds things to last.To be more specific, my first 900xl lasted about a year and then the pump slowly lost power so that the machines maxed out at five bars. The engineering is well thought-out, but it’s not the highest quality. I don’t mind some maintenance costs once it’s out of warranty, but I don’t want a $1200 paperweight.Construction/BuildSo here’s my top complaint, and it applies to most everything Breville builds. It’s also a bit of a power hog.Why only three stars? I’d go 3 1/2, but the tendency for these machines to fail for me is a pretty big ding. And it’s a BIG machine with a high counter clearance. This is the BIGGEST DRAWBACK…read more about it in the construction section below. There are a ton more reviews there, which you may want to check out since this is basically the same machine.OverallPros: Great machine in this price range, great espresso, pretty easy to use, pretty consistent, GREAT features, good customer service.Cons: Some components a little cheap. Therefore, the reviews on the 900xl are still applicable, with the exception that you can now descale locally. Breville has added the ability to drain the boiler for shipping and at-home descaling to this version, plus a few minor other tweaks. I’ll try to cover the info that I think is pertinent to a potential buyer.So here’s the first point – this machine, the 920xl, is a slightly upgraded version of the 900xl. I used the Breville 900xl Dual Boiler for 3+ years, and moved on to the 920xl recently. This review is from the viewpoint of a home espresso and latte maker who wants a solid machine that is a decent value. I am not a Breville “fanboy,” nor do I have a grudge to settle. I write reviews solely to provide the best info possible for potential buyers. BPA free (all parts that come into contact with coffee and water).Dedicated espresso and steam boilers for simultaneous espresso extraction and milk texturing.Over pressure valve limits maximum extraction pressure for optimal espresso flavour.Gradually increases water pressure to gently expand grinds for even extraction.Power save after 1 hour and auto off after 4 hours.Removable drip tray with full indicator.Pressure gauge monitors extraction pressure.Extraction temperature 190°-205☏ (86°-96☌) for different roasts and origins.Embedded element maintains thermal stability throughout extraction.Delivers precise water temperature for optimum espresso flavour.Dual Italian dedicated espresso and steam pumps for optimal pressure.Accessories include 2.28″ Razor™, 2.28″ full stainless steel portafilter, 2.28″ single and dual wall filter baskets, milk jug, cleaning kit, water hardness test strip, water filter holder and filter.
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