Brooklyn Steel Co. Talos Semi-Automatic Grind & Brew Espresso Machine - Indigo Reverie, Built-in Burr Grinder, Adjustable Brew Strength, Steam Wand, Double Boiler System, 15 Bar Pressure
$349.99
In stock
- Brooklyn Steel Co. quality and reliability
- Perfect for espresso-machines use
- Premium quality construction
- Durable and long-lasting design
- Easy to use and maintain
Our Score
Brooklyn Steel Co. Talos Review — Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine with Review
The Brooklyn Steel Co. Talos is a semi-automatic espresso machine designed for home baristas who value fresh coffee and hands-on control. It features a built-in conical burr grinder with 27 precision settings, a 20-bar Italian pump, and real-time pressure monitoring via an analog gauge. A PID temperature control system and dual thermoblock heating ensure stable temperatures for both brewing and steaming. The machine comes with a commercial 58mm portafilter, tamper, milk jug, and other accessories. While it requires some practice to master, the Talos delivers café-quality espresso and microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos. Its sleek Indigo Reverie finish adds elegance to any countertop.
Product Overview
The Talos combines a grinder and brewer in one compact unit, saving counter space without sacrificing capability. The built-in conical burr grinder offers 27 settings from fine espresso to coarse French press, allowing users to dial in their preferred extraction. The 20-bar pump, paired with a tamped 58mm portafilter, produces thick crema when the grind and dose are correct. An analog pressure gauge provides real-time feedback on extraction quality, which is helpful for beginners learning to adjust parameters. The dual thermoblock system heats water for espresso and steam independently, reducing wait time between brewing and frothing. The 360-degree steam wand is fully articulating and creates fine microfoam for latte art. The removable 2.9-quart water tank slides out for easy refilling. A hot water function is also available for tea or Americanos. The machine measures 13.4 by 13 by 15.6 inches and weighs 19.4 pounds, so it has a solid footprint. The included accessories—single- and double-shot baskets, a metal tamper, a frothing jug, and a cleaning brush—get you started immediately. Some reviewers noted that the double basket was difficult to dial in and preferred the single basket. The grinder may not go fine enough for very light roasts, as the finest setting was required to build adequate pressure. The machine is easy to clean but purges water on startup, requiring regular emptying of the drip tray. Overall, the Talos is a well-built machine that rewards patience and practice with excellent espresso.
Key Features
Integrated Conical Burr Grinder
- ✓27 precision settings from fine espresso to coarse French press.
- ✓Fresh grinding preserves aroma and flavor.
- ✓Stainless steel burrs for uniform particle size.
20-Bar Italian Pump with Pressure Gauge
- ✓Commercial-grade pump for bold espresso extraction.
- ✓Analog gauge shows real-time pressure during brewing.
- ✓Helps dial in grind size and dose for consistent shots.
PID Temperature Control & Dual Thermoblock
- ✓Stable brew temperature within 1°F for even extraction.
- ✓Separate heating for espresso and steam allows quick transitions.
- ✓Lighter roasts benefit from precise temperature management.
360° Steam Wand for Microfoam
- ✓Full-motion wand for lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites.
- ✓Creates silky milk texture suitable for latte art.
- ✓Frothing requires practice to avoid noise and splashing.
58mm Portafilter & Barista Accessories
- ✓Commercial-size 58mm portafilter with single and double baskets.
- ✓Includes metal tamper, frothing jug, and cleaning brush.
- ✓Sturdy build with some reports of handles loosening over time.
Build & Materials
The Talos is constructed with a combination of aluminum and stainless steel, giving it a solid, premium feel. The housing has a matte Indigo Reverie finish that resists fingerprints and complements modern kitchens. At 19.4 pounds, it stays planted during use. The portafilter is heavy-duty chrome-plated brass with a 58mm basket size identical to professional machines. The included tamper is metal and fits comfortably. The water tank is plastic but feels durable, and the drip tray slides out easily. The steam wand is stainless steel with a rubber tip; its full articulation allows for all angles. The grinder assembly uses a conical burr set driven by a quiet motor. One reviewer mentioned that the accessories' handle screws needed occasional tightening. Overall, the build quality is praised as far exceeding expectations for the price point.
Pros and Cons
What Works
- ✓Freshly ground beans produce superior flavor compared to pre-ground
- ✓PID control ensures stable brewing temperature
- ✓Pressure gauge provides real-time feedback for dialing in
- ✓Powerful steam wand creates excellent microfoam
- ✓Compact design with elegant aesthetic
- ✓Included accessories cover essential barista tools
- ✓Good value at under $400
What Doesn't
- ✗Steep learning curve for beginners unfamiliar with espresso
- ✗Grinder may not achieve fine enough settings for light roasts
- ✗Double shot basket is difficult to dial in correctly
- ✗No low water warning; machine stops mid-shot if tank is empty
- ✗Steam wand can be loud if technique is off
- ✗Pre-programmed buttons are not reliable; manual programming recommended
The Verdict
The Brooklyn Steel Co. Talos is a capable semi-automatic espresso machine that offers impressive value for home baristas willing to learn. Its integrated grinder, PID temperature control, and pressure gauge give you the tools to dial in quality shots. However, the learning curve is real, especially for newcomers, and some quirks like the finicky double basket and grinder limitations may frustrate. With practice, the Talos produces espresso that rivals machines costing much more. We recommend it for coffee enthusiasts ready to invest time in the craft.
Price vs Value
What You Get
- Integrated conical burr grinder with 27 settings
- 20-bar pump with real-time pressure gauge
- PID temperature control and dual thermoblock heating
- 58mm portafilter with single and double baskets
- 360° steam wand for microfoam
- Includes tamper, frothing jug, cleaning brush
What You Pay
$349.99
Frequently Asked Questions
How steep is the learning curve for beginners?
Is the grinder capable of fine enough espresso grind?
Which basket should I use: single or double?
How do I program the buttons for my preferred shot?
What should I do if the steam wand screeches?
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Product Specifications
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