Arabica vs. Robusta is one of the most famous rivalries in the coffee world. Both varieties have their ardent supporters, convinced of their favorite's superiority. However, many coffee lovers struggle with the uncertainty surrounding which beans to choose. In today's article, we offer a helping hand to those undecided – explaining the differences between Arabica and Robusta and presenting the characteristics of both types of coffee.

Arabica – the gentle queen of nobility

If you want to make an informed decision about which coffee beans should go into your coffee machine – Arabica or Robusta – you need to know the characteristics of each. Arabica beans come from the plant botanically named Coffea arabica. Its origins are believed to be in southwestern Ethiopia and the mountainous regions of Yemen. Currently, approximately 70% of coffee cultivation focuses on this species , making it the global market leader. There are currently over 140 varieties of Arabica, with more being discovered or developed through laboratory crossbreeding.

Where is Arabica grown?

Arabica coffee is grown in dozens of countries, with most plantations located in Central and South America, central Africa, and the Indian subcontinent. The largest producer of Arabica is Brazil , where the prized Bourbon variety is produced.

The locations where Arabica coffee is grown are not random, as it requires very specific conditions to thrive. The best locations are mountainous areas located at an altitude of approximately 1,000 to 2,500 meters above sea level, where the average annual temperature ranges from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius.

However, this isn't the only criterion. For Arabica to grow properly, it must be grown in fertile, volcanic soil . Regular rainfall and ample sunlight are also essential to obtaining high-quality beans.

The problem with Arabica is its high susceptibility to disease and pest activity. An example of a disease affecting Arabica crops is coffee leaf rust, a fungal disease that attacks the plant's leaves and consequently causes the loss of its fruit. This low resistance to negative external factors may be due to its low caffeine and chlorogenic acid (CGA) content . The former provides natural protection against insects, while the latter exhibits antifungal and antibacterial properties. The difficulties associated with growing Arabica determine its price , which in many cases is higher than that of Robusta beans.

What makes Arabica beans unique?

When considering the differences between Arabica and Robusta, it's worth considering the beans of both types of coffee. Arabica beans are characterized by a flat, slightly elongated shape . They can also be easily recognized by the appearance of a groove, which forms the shape of the letter "S." Green-brown beans also differ in their chemical composition. They contain higher amounts of sugars and fats than Robusta. Arabica's complex flavor profile may be due to its higher number of chromosomes than its rival. However, it's worth noting that Arabica beans have a much lower caffeine content than its rival – caffeine constitutes only 0.9 to 1.7% of Arabica , making it almost twice as strong as Robusta. The lower caffeine and CGA content in Arabica compared to Robusta gives it a milder flavor and less noticeable bitterness .

Arabica coffee – a wealth of flavor and aroma in a subtle version

Arabica is renowned among coffee lovers for delivering extraordinary flavor and aroma experiences. In Arabica vs. Robusta discussions, one often hears the claim that Coffea arabica beans are simply superior to their rivals. This is a unfair oversimplification, but it is based on the undeniable benefits of Arabica. Its properties may vary depending on factors such as cultivation, processing, and roasting methods, but the following notes typically dominate the flavor and aroma of this type of coffee:

• fruit, including citrus, cherry, currant and plum,
• floral,
• cocoa,
• chocolate,
• nutty,
• spicy.

Arabica coffee is characterized by a light sweetness and a noticeable acidity . Bitterness is definitely less prominent, making it an excellent choice for various dessert coffees. It's also an excellent choice for those who :

• they drink many cups of coffee a day,
• limit caffeine intake,
• they appreciate a complex and deep bouquet,
• they want to enjoy a mild, tasty coffee and do not care about stimulating properties.

Fancy a light coffee while you relax? Arabica coffee from our roastery will help you spend your free time with a smile on your face.

Robusta – the perfect option for coffee enthusiasts

Arabica and Robusta are the coffee varieties that dominate the global market, with Robusta accounting for a smaller share, around 30%. The origins of this type of coffee trace back to western sub-Saharan Africa – it's no coincidence that Robusta is also known as Congolese coffee (Coffea canephora). Like Arabica, it is currently grown primarily in the so-called coffee belt, the areas located between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. Vietnam is the largest producer of Robusta , and other popular exporters include Brazil and Indonesia.

How is Robusta grown?

Robusta plantations are located in areas at an altitude of up to 800 m above sea level. The average temperature there is between 24 and 36 degrees Celsius, which can be much higher than in the case of Arabica cultivation.

When considering the Arabica and Robusta varieties and analyzing the differences between them, one of the most noticeable differences is the difficulty of cultivation. Robusta is significantly less demanding than Arabica , thus guaranteeing a more abundant harvest. The plant from which Robusta beans are obtained is larger than Coffea arabica and more resistant to parasites and diseases. This is due to its significantly higher caffeine and chlorogenic acid content, effectively protecting it from these negative factors.

Robusta's lower growing requirements mean it's typically priced lower than Arabica . This doesn't mean, however, that Robusta is of lower quality – there are excellent Robusta beans available on the market that are just as good as Arabica.

Robusta beans – what are their characteristics?

When you see a bean and wonder whether it's Arabica or Robusta, pay attention to its shape and the appearance of the groove . In Robusta, the groove is straight, and the bean itself is smaller and rounder than Arabica. The difference can also be seen in the color of the raw coffee, which in Robusta is a mix of yellow and green.

Visual aspects, of course, don't play a major role in the topic of Arabica vs. Robusta – differences. What's hidden in Robusta beans is far more important. First and foremost, it's their high caffeine content, reaching up to 2.7% . Another important characteristic of Robusta is the presence of a significant amount of chlorogenic acid, reaching as much as 7-10%, compared to 5.5-8% in Arabica. Robusta owes its trademark bitterness to its high CGA and caffeine content. Compared to Arabica, Robusta beans have lower sugar and lipid content.

Robusta – the quintessence of expressiveness and character

Due to its smaller number of chromosomes, in the Arabica vs. Robusta coffee duel of rich flavor and aroma, the former prevails. Robusta is characterized by a less intense and varied bouquet , but is distinguished by tart and bitter notes. Fans of this type of coffee appreciate it for its noticeable accents, reminiscent of chocolate and baked bread. Robusta's aftertaste lingers longer on the tongue, allowing for longer enjoyment.

Robusta beans, due to their high caffeine content, are a popular choice for those seeking a stimulating effect from their coffee . However, this isn't the only use for this variety. Robusta also performs exceptionally well in espresso, providing an excellent, thick crema.

Arabica vs Robusta – a comparison of both types of coffee

Arabica and Robusta are the two most popular coffee varieties, but they differ in many ways. To begin with, Arabica is much more difficult to cultivate . For its harmonious growth, this plant requires, among other things, volcanic soils, frequent rainfall, and ample sunlight. Robusta is less demanding to cultivate and more resistant to pests and diseases than Arabica , due to its higher caffeine and chlorogenic acid content.

The difference between Arabica and Robusta can also be seen by examining the beans themselves. Arabica beans are flattened, large, and elongated, while Robusta beans are rounder and smaller. Another key factor in distinguishing these two coffees is the appearance of the groove on the bean. Robusta has a straight groove, while Arabica has an S-shaped indentation .

Arabica fans appreciate it for its rich flavor and aroma. It is characterized by mild notes – depending on many factors, fruity, chocolatey, spicy, or even nutty accents can be detected. Arabica also has more sweetness and acidity than its rival, Congolese coffee. Robusta, on the other hand, is significantly more pungent and intense. Its aroma is subdued, while bitterness and earthiness permeate the flavor. It falls short of its rival's subtlety – Robusta is characterized by a distinct astringency .

Summary

Many coffee lovers wonder which is better: Arabica or Robusta ? The answer depends primarily on the coffee drinker's expectations and preferences. If you're looking for a strong boost, Robusta is a good choice. However, if you're looking for a diverse, nuanced flavor and aroma, choose Arabica. Blends of both coffee varieties are also available on the market , combining the caffeine power of Robusta with the exceptional flavor and aroma of Arabica.

Remember that both Arabica and Robusta can provide you with many positive experiences, provided you source high-quality beans. Our LaCava coffee roastery offers a diverse, carefully selected selection of products from around the world – we offer coffee beans from countries such as Brazil, Ethiopia, and Kenya. Place your order and enjoy exceptional coffees every day.