Arabica Coffee vs. Robusta Coffee

Arabica and Robusta coffee beans differ in taste, caffeine content, appearance, and how they grow: 

• Taste

  Arabica beans can be sweet, fruity, nutty, or cereal-like, with a higher acidity than Robusta beans. Robusta beans have a more distinct, woody, and nutty taste, and are more bitter. 

• Caffeine content

  Robusta beans have more caffeine than Arabica beans, with an average of 2.2–2.7% caffeine compared to 1.2–1.5% for Arabica. 

• Appearance

  Arabica beans are typically ovular, flat, and oilier than Robusta beans, which are usually slightly smaller and rounder. 

• Growing conditions

  Arabica trees grow at higher altitudes than Robusta trees, typically between 3,000 and 6,000 feet. Robusta trees are more resistant to disease, drought, and pests, and can grow at lower altitudes. 

• Plant height

  Arabica plants usually grow between 2.5–4.5 meters, while Robusta plants grow between 4.5–6 meters. 

Robusta beans are often added to blends to balance the coffee's intensity and body.