Which Type of Coffee Beans is Better, Arabica or Robusta?

Can I be Honest?

I’ve tried each type of coffee beans, Arabica and Robusta. Honestly, Robusta’s bitter punch just didn’t do it for me. Arabica, on the other hand, hit all the right notes—it’s smooth and fits my taste perfectly. How about you? Are you Team Arabica or Team Robusta?

Hey coffee lovers, let’s not be too rigid about it! Here are interesting things to figure out which type of coffee beans is good for you.

I know, that choosing the right coffee bean is a big deal for coffee lovers, especially for those, who are concerned about the caffeine content. Arabica and Robusta coffee are the two most popular types of coffee beans, but how do they differ? Which variety of coffee should you choose? Get ready to know about both coffee bean types.

From their taste, health impact, and where they’re grown, I am gonna cover it all to help you decide.

Table of Contents

What Are Coffee Beans?

Coffee beans are fruit seeds in the coffee plant. To learn more, head over to my fresh post about “What are Coffee Beans?”

In brief, these plants grow in tropical regions and need specific conditions to grow healthier. The two main coffee plants are:

Coffea arabica: Produces Arabica coffee beans.
Coffea canephora: Produces Robusta coffee beans.

While Arabica and Robusta are the most popular coffee bean types, there are two lesser-known types of coffee beans. One is excelsa beans, which are known for fruity and floral flavors, while the other one is Liberica coffee beans, which are rare and unique, with a bold taste. The former type of coffee beans is grown primarily in Southeast Asia and the latter one in limited regions and is harder to find.

Skip this little talk, get to the heart of it!

Did You Know?
Robusta is also known as Arabica’s darker Cousin

Arabica Vs. Robusta Coffee Beans: Key Differences

According to Wikipedia, almost 60% of the world’s coffee is brewed from Arabica coffee beans, and the rest of 30-40% from Robusta coffee beans. Countries like Brazil and Ethiopia are top producers of Arabica and Robusta producers are Vietnam, Indonesia, and Uganda.

Just like you, I was confused too unless I tried both types of coffee beans. Let’s uncover the interesting facts!

Appearance

So, coffee lovers, how to identify coffee beans?

Their shapes give a clear hint about them. Arabica beans are oval and Arabica plants are shorter. They grow between 2.5–4.5 and wild plants can grow 9-12 meters tall. On the other hand, Robusta beans have a round shape and Robusta plants grow 4.5–6 meters tall, and wild ones up to 10 meters. So, this size variation provides clues about their taste differences.

See the shape of a Robusta coffee bean and Arabica bean.

size difference between Arabica coffee beans and Robusta coffee beans

Growing Conditions

Arabica beans grow in high-altitude subtropical climates with steady rainfall and plenty of shade. These coffee plants are sensitive and require moisture nutrient-dense soil. Moreover, Arabica coffee plants are more sensitive to climate change. A minor temperature change can affect their growth. They can bear lower temperatures but not frost. The optimum temperature for Arabia to grow well lies between 15 and 24 °C (59 and 75 °F).

Robusta beans grow best in lower altitudes and warmer climates. Due to the higher amount of caffeine, Robusta plants offer strong resistance to pests, making them a hardy choice for growers. Also, this coffee bean type is easy to cultivate and yields highly. Robusta beans are grown in temperatures somewhere between 20–26°C (68–80°F).

Taste Profile

Arabica beans are prized for their delicate flavor. They’re the top choice for coffee enthusiasts who enjoy fruity and floral notes. Sweet, fruity, and floral. It’s smoother and less bitter, making it a favorite for specialty coffee. Mine favorite too!

Robusta is often disfavored due to its bitter and bold taste. In fact, 100% robusta is rare to get. It has earthy flavors and a heavier body. Robusta beans are perfect for strong coffee lovers looking for an instant energy boost. Their higher caffeine content adds a kick to espresso blends.

Caffeine Content

Everywhere Arabica first, but not here. LOL!

Robusta beans contain almost double the caffeine of Arabica beans. In percentage, 2.7% compared to arabica’s 1.5%. This is why they’re often used in espresso blends and instant coffee.

Arabica has a lower amount of caffeine but is richer in chlorogenic acids, which contribute to complex flavors.

Health and Nutritional Insights

Chlorogenic Acids and Antioxidants

The chlorogenic acid content is higher in green coffee beans and it decreases in roast coffee These compounds are linked to health benefits, like reducing inflammation. Arabica beans Contain lower levels, approximately 5.5–8% of their dry weight, which give them a sweeter, more nuanced flavor.

Robusta beans, while less sweet, have a longer shelf life thanks to their higher caffeine and antioxidant levels. Robusta coffee beans have a higher chlorogenic acid content of around 7–10% of their dry weight resulting in a bitter taste.

Lipids & Sugar

Robusta is less fatty and has less natural sugar than Arabica.

On the flip side, Arabica packs over twice the amount of sugars and lipids compared to Robusta, giving it a sweeter, smoother taste.

Price

Price might be your biggest concern. Isnt it? Let’s break it down!

Arabica coffee is generally more expensive than Robusta. Yes, due to growing conditions and the flavor profile of these delicious coffee beans. The high altitudes, steady rainfall, and nutrient-rich soil requirements for Arabica coffee plants make them costly.

On the other hand, Robusta coffee plants are cheaper because they are not as sensitive to cultivate as Arabica. Robusta is more affordable and commonly used in instant coffee and espresso blends.

These factors make Arabica a premium choice while Robusta is the budget-friendly option.

Arabica or Robusta: Which to Choose?

I have sketched a clear picture of both types of coffee beans. Arabica tastes sweet and fruity and Robusta coffee tastes bitter for some people. It depends upon your taste buds. Now, you better decide which one to prefer to the other one.

If not, then bear my suggestions 😀!

Here is when to choose Arabica Coffee Beans:

You like a mild, smooth, and sweet taste.
You enjoy high-quality specialty coffee.
You love to pay more. Kidding!

Opt for Robusta Coffee Beans if,

You want a stronger instant coffee in the morning.
You want to enjoy chocolate and wooden notes.
You love the bold flavor and bitter taste.

Still confused? Don’t be rigid, just try both types yourself and decide which works for you.

Who Needs a Coffee Blend?

You’re reading this portion because you might be someone who doesn’t like both bean types.

Wait wait…

We have a better option for you. Coffee blend. What do you say?

Coffee blends often mix these beans to balance taste and strength. Arabica adds sweetness and complexity, while Robusta contributes body and caffeine. Espresso blends, for instance, often rely on this combination.

Final Thoughts

Coffee enthusiasts enjoy exploring double the different types of coffee to discover unique flavors and aromas from various beans. I’m glad I could help in this regard.

Arabica and Robusta coffee beans each have their strengths. If you love smooth, sweet coffee, Arabica is the way to go. If you need a bold, high-caffeine kick, Robusta won’t disappoint. And if you’re up for something interesting, don’t hesitate to explore Excelsa and Liberica beans.

Ultimately, the best type of coffee beans is one that suits your taste. Try different types to find your favorite, and enjoy the journey through the world of coffee!