Overview
The Ariete Moderna takes the brand upmarket with a contemporary brushed stainless steel design and improved internals including pre-infusion and a commercial-style steam wand. The Moderna drops the retro aesthetic of the Classica line in favor of a clean, modern look that suits contemporary kitchen designs. The upgraded steam wand allows genuine microfoam production for those willing to develop the technique. A more powerful thermoblock reduces heat-up time and provides better temperature stability during extraction. The Moderna demonstrates that Ariete is capable of producing competent espresso machines when the design language doesn't prioritize form over function.
The Ariete Moderna Espresso comes equipped with pre-infusion for even extraction. It features a thermoblock boiler system made of stainless steel. The vibratory pump delivers 15.0 bars of pressure for optimal extraction.
Priced at $170, the Ariete Moderna Espresso is designed for budget-conscious beginners and casual coffee drinkers. As a semi-automatic machine, it gives you control over the brewing process while handling pressure and temperature automatically.
In terms of build quality, the Ariete Moderna Espresso is a substantial machine, weighing in at 4.5 kg, manufactured in Italy, drawing 1080W of power. With dimensions of 240 x 280 x 310 mm (W×D×H), make sure you have adequate counter space. The built-in water reservoir holds 1100 ml, making it easy to set up anywhere in your kitchen.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Pre-infusion gently saturates the coffee puck before full pressure, improving extraction evenness
- Stainless steel boiler is corrosion-resistant and easy to maintain
- Manufactured in Italy, known for quality espresso machine engineering
Cons
- No PID temperature control — requires temperature surfing for consistent results
- Thermoblock heating may not match the temperature stability of traditional boiler designs
- Vibratory pump can be noisy and may not last as long as rotary alternatives under heavy use
- Non-standard 51mm portafilter limits third-party basket and accessory options
Full Specifications
| Brand | Ariete |
|---|---|
| Model | Ariete Moderna Espresso |
| Category | Semi-Auto |
| Status | Current |
| Country of Origin | Italy |
| Year Introduced | 2020 |
| Boiler Type | Thermoblock |
| Boiler Material | Stainless Steel |
| Pump Type | Vibratory |
| Pump Pressure | 15.0 bar |
| PID Control | No |
| Pre-Infusion | Yes |
| Pressure Profiling | No |
| Flow Control | No |
| Group Head | Proprietary |
| Portafilter Diameter | 51 mm |
| Steam Wand | Commercial |
| Water Source | Reservoir |
| Reservoir Capacity | 1100 ml |
| Cup Warmer | No |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 240 x 280 x 310 mm |
| Weight | 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs) |
| Wattage | 1080 W |
| Voltage | 220V |
| MSRP | $170 |
Our Verdict
The Ariete Moderna Espresso from Ariete is a capable machine in its category. At this entry-level price point, it offers a solid introduction to home espresso. Remember that the grinder matters at least as much as the machine — budget accordingly. Consider your workflow needs (straight espresso vs. milk drinks), counter space, and grinder pairing when making your final decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ariete Moderna Espresso good for beginners?
The Ariete Moderna Espresso is a solid entry point for beginners at $170. It's affordable enough to learn on without a major financial commitment. Pair it with a capable grinder and you'll be making genuine espresso quickly.
How often does the Ariete Moderna Espresso need maintenance?
Regular maintenance includes daily backflushing (for machines with solenoid valves), weekly cleaning of the group head and portafilter, and descaling every 1-3 months depending on water hardness. Using filtered water significantly reduces scale buildup and extends machine life.
What grinder should I pair with the Ariete Moderna Espresso?
At this price point, budget at least as much for a grinder as the machine itself. Popular choices include the Eureka Mignon series ($200-$400), Baratza Sette 270 ($300-$400), or a hand grinder like the 1Zpresso JX Pro ($160) for excellent grind quality on a budget.
Recommended Grinder Pairings for the Ariete Moderna Espresso
A good grinder is essential for getting the most out of your espresso machine. Here are some grinders that pair well at this price level: