In this article we will break it down for you the main difference and explanation of the differences between Arabica and Robusta, the two most cultivated beans for coffee consumption.

What is Arabica and Robusta coffee

Robusta coffee bean is a species coming from the Coffea canephore plant. Its production amounts to around 30% of the world’s total production, which in fact makes it the second most popular variety.

Its typical features are a strong and harsh, yet deep flavor, given by a high caffeine content. These are the characteristics for which it is considered very suitable for instant coffee, since Robusta is mostly used for instant coffee granules and powders.

For its part, Arabica is undoubtedly the most widely produced species of bean. It was originally discovered in the high-altitude forests of Ethiopia, where – according to several legends – it was cultivated and harvested to brew hot beverages in the 12th century. This species derives from a plant known as Coffea Arabica and is certainly more appreciated and favored than Robusta by coffee connoisseurs.

The nuanced, aromatic, and sweeter mouth feels certainly play a significant part in the bean’s popularity and recognition. While having a lower caffeine content, coffee aficionados stand for Arabica beans, since they are in love with their delicious taste. Arabica beans in terms of production and trade, account for about 70% of the market and are higher in terms of quality and are more expensive to purchase.

Although there are over a hundred different species of coffee, these two are to be considered as the two most popular and appreciated all over the world.

The main differences of the two types

It is in terms of appearance that we find the first differences between these two species. Arabica coffee beans are generally ovular, flat and oilier than robusta. That’s why they taste sweeter, zesty and somewhat fruity. On the other hand, Robusta coffee beans tend to be slightly smaller and rounder. Their harsh, bitter taste is due to the fewer oils they hold, while usually having a more natural and earthy flavor.

As already mentioned, another difference is to be found in the amount of caffeine differing while comparing the two species, which is more concentrated in Robusta than in Arabica. With Robusta beans having 2.7% caffeine content, Arabica holds almost less than half of it, with a percentage of 1.5%. Furthermore, Arabica contains almost twice the concentration of sugar and about 60% more lipids than Robusta, features that probably have a noticeable influence on the reason why consumers prefer Arabica.

As the name suggests, Robusta is an extremely hardy plant. In terms of cultivation, it is much easier to tend to, growing in a variety of different environments, and generally has a higher yield. It is less likely to be affected by insects because of the higher amount of caffeine, since it works as a chemical defence for the coffee seeds as it is toxic to bugs.

Moreover, very few people are aware of a third species of coffee that is commercially farmed, despite making up for about 2-3% of the global coffee trade, which is known as Liberica. What is Liberica? Its flavour can be described as fruity, unusual and peculiarly intense, thanks to a low acidity and a less bitter aroma, granting a strong and resolute aftertaste.

So which one to choose between the two?

The right answer to this age-old question is to be primarily found in your own preferences and taste! Nevertheless, as already pointed out, most coffee enthusiasts seem to profusely agree on Arabica coffee as the most prestigious one, thanks to its sweeter and softer tones and its frequent fruity and chocolate notes. Nonetheless, while Arabica is certainly more popular, beans from Robusta plants, while being more bitter, do have their own place in the heart of coffee lovers.

Although Ethiopian Arabica are frequently considered as the best gourmet coffees worldwide, some Robusta may rival them in terms of quality. Deciding which one is unquestionably the best variety from every perspective is rather impossible. Like many other things in life, it is all a question of taste and, in this case, at times of mixtures, as you could actually go for a delightful Arabica and Robusta blend!