Arabica. Robusta. Two words you'll see everywhere when shopping for coffee beans. But what do they mean, and does one make better coffee?
What is Arabica coffee?
Arabica comes from the species Coffea arabica. It's often associated with varied, aromatic flavours, from chocolate and nuts to fruit and flowers. But '100% Arabica' doesn't tell you exactly how a coffee will taste or guarantee its quality.
What is Robusta coffee?
Robusta is the common name for coffee from Coffea canephora. It generally contains more caffeine than Arabica and is often fuller-bodied, earthier or more bitter. Well-grown and carefully processed Robusta can be excellent, particularly in espresso and blends.
Arabica vs Robusta: key differences
Caffeine: Robusta generally has more.
Flavour: Arabica often offers a broader range of delicate aromas; Robusta is frequently bolder and earthier.
Growing: Robusta often tolerates warmer, lower-elevation conditions.
Price: Arabica is often more expensive, but not always.
Use: both appear in blends; Arabica is also common in single-origin coffees.
Which tastes better?
Neither is automatically better. Quality depends on growing, processing, roasting and brewing. A poorly handled Arabica isn't necessarily preferable to carefully produced Robusta. Your taste matters more than the label.
Why blend Arabica and Robusta?
Roasters can combine Arabica's sweetness and aromas with Robusta's body and intensity. A blend is a deliberate flavour choice, not necessarily a compromise.
Which should beginners choose?
If you enjoy bold, full-bodied coffee, an Arabica-Robusta blend might suit you. If you want to explore fruitier or more delicate flavours, try a single-origin Arabica. There's no need to pick a permanent side.
Try a blend of both
The Usual combines coffees from Brazil, India and Ethiopia, using Arabica and Robusta for a bold cup with milk-chocolate and praline notes. Discover The Usual.
Frequently asked questions
Is Robusta bad coffee? No. Quality varies across both species.
Is 100% Arabica always better? No, it's a species description, not a quality guarantee.
Can you mix them? Yes, many blends do exactly that.