Arabica vs. Robusta: the main differences between the two most popular coffee varieties

When it comes to choosing the perfect coffee, there are two names that immediately come to mind: Arabica and Robusta.

Each variety has its own distinctive characteristics that actually affect flavor and aroma. But what changes from one type to another?  

Here is an overview of the main differences. 

Origin and plantation 

Arabica coffee comes from the mountain regions of Ethiopia and Arabia and represents about 70% of world production. It is generally grown at high altitudes, between 900 and 2,000 meters above sea level, in what is called the "coffee belt," the area between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. 

Robusta coffee accounts for the remaining 30 percent and is native to West Africa. Robusta is grown at lower altitudes (600 to 1000 meters) and higher temperatures because it is more resistant to pests and possible diseases.   

Taste and Aroma 

Arabica coffee, with 44 chromosomes, is usually considered superior because it has a more complex aromatic pattern.   

The flavor notes, in fact, range from sweet to fruity, thus making it more appreciated by most palates.  

Robusta coffee, on the other hand, has only 22 chromosomes and is characterized by a stronger taste with bitter and earthy notes. 

Caffeine and sugars  

The different taste between the two coffee types is also explained by the different concentration of caffeine and sugars.   

In fact, Robusta beans have a caffeine content of about 2.7%, almost double that of Arabica's 1.5%. Moreover, the latter, in addition to its lower caffeine content, contains more sugars. This all connects to the sweeter aroma of Arabica and the more full-bodied and bitter aroma of Robusta. 

Bean   

With a careful look, it is possible to recognize the type of coffee without tasting it but simply by observing the bean. 

Arabica coffee beans are larger and oval with a more sinuous central cut. In contrast, Robusta beans are slightly smaller, with a more regular, round shape and a more linear central cut.   

Price  

Robusta coffee costs about half as much as Arabica. This price difference is a direct result of the complexity of Arabica coffee cultivation and the need for more care. In fact, as mentioned at the beginning, it is grown at much higher altitudes and lower temperatures. The Robusta plant, on the other hand, is more resistant to possible diseases and pests, allowing it to be grown at higher temperatures and lower altitudes. And that also explains the reason for the name "robusta" (robust)! 

Is it better Arabica or Robusta?  

There is no right answer to this question.   

We know that Arabica coffee is more popular and appreciated but there is no correct and single answer. As is often the case, it is a matter of taste. There are those who prefer a stronger and more bitter taste and those who prefer the sweeter and fruitier notes. We can only conclude by saying that “De gustibus non disputandum est!” Latin for “In matter of taste, there can be no disputes!” 

On our website, in the coffee section, there are 100% Arabica blends from Torrefazione Giamaica Caffè roastery, if you have not yet tried them we invite you to do so and let us know your favorite.