Arabica vs Robusta: What Actually Matters

Arabica and Robusta are the two main coffee species. They are very different.

Arabica grows at high altitudes. It has more sugar and fat, which means more flavor. It is the specialty coffee standard.

Robusta grows lower and is hardier. It has more caffeine and more bitter compounds. It is cheaper and often used in espresso blends for crema and body.

Most cheap coffee is mostly Robusta. That is why it tastes harsh.

Specialty coffee is almost always Arabica. That is why it tastes smooth and complex.

Read the bag. If it does not say Arabica, assume Robusta.

Neither is bad. They are just different. But if you want great coffee, Arabica is where it lives.