Difference between Arabica and Robusta beans

Coffee is, as you may already know, one of the most popular beverages in the world. Millions of people are enjoying a cup of coffee every day. Many of them, made with a Moccamaster. However, taste of coffee can vary a lot and there are two main types of coffee beans causing that: Arabica and Robusta. In this blog, we will explore the differences between these two types of coffee beans and the characteristics that make them unique. Hopefully it will be easier to choose which one of the two will suit you the best to brew coffee with, with your Moccamaster.

Arabica Coffee Beans

Arabica coffee beans are considered to be of higher quality than Robusta coffee beans. They are grown at higher altitudes, between 600 and 2000 meters above sea level, and in cooler climates. Arabica coffee beans have a more delicate flavour profile, with a range of flavours from sweet and fruity to floral and nutty. The acidity of Arabica coffee is often described as bright and vibrant, with a smooth finish.

Arabica coffee beans have a lower caffeine content than Robusta coffee beans. They contain around 1.2% caffeine, making them a popular choice for those who are sensitive to caffeine or who prefer a milder coffee flavour. Arabica coffee beans are also more expensive than Robusta coffee beans, due to the higher costs associated with growing and harvesting them.

Robusta Coffee Beans

Robusta coffee beans, as the name suggests, are more robust and harder than Arabica coffee beans. They are grown at lower altitudes, between 0 and 600 meters above sea level, and in warmer climates. Robusta coffee beans have a stronger and more bitter flavour profile, with notes of chocolate and burnt wood. The acidity of Robusta coffee is often described as harsh and earthy, with a lingering aftertaste.

Robusta coffee beans have a higher caffeine content than Arabica coffee beans. They contain around 2.2% caffeine, making them a popular choice for those who need a stronger coffee flavour or who prefer a more bitter taste. Robusta coffee beans are also less expensive than Arabica coffee beans, due to the lower costs associated with growing and harvesting them.

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Which Coffee Bean is Better?

The answer to this question depends on personal preference. Some people prefer the delicate and fruity flavour profile of Arabica coffee, while others prefer the strong and bitter flavour profile of Robusta coffee. It is important to note that the quality of the coffee beans depends on many factors, including the growing conditions, harvesting methods, and roasting techniques. A high-quality Robusta coffee bean can be just as good as a high-quality Arabica coffee bean.

The choice between Arabica and Robusta coffee beans ultimately comes down to personal preference. The most important thing is that, no matter which coffee you eventually buy, you brew it well. With a Moccamaster, you have the powerful combination of perfect temperature and brewing (extraction) time, which gives you the best cup of coffee. Make it taste even better with freshly ground beans by using our KM5 Burr Grinder. Now, nothing can beat your cup of coffee.

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Want to learn more about coffee?
Also read our blog 'What kind of coffee do I need?' Here we explain the differences between filter grind, coarse grind and espresso grind.