Arabica vs. Robusta: What's the Difference?

Arabica vs. Robusta are the two main types of coffee beans. Arabica beans have a smoother, sweeter taste with hints of fruit and sugar. They are grown at higher altitudes and are more expensive due to their delicate nature and lower yield. Arabica beans contain less caffeine compared to Robusta.

Robusta beans have a stronger, harsher flavour, often described as bitter or earthy. They grow at lower altitudes and are more resistant to pests and diseases, making them easier and cheaper to cultivate. Robusta beans have higher caffeine content and are commonly used in instant coffee and espresso blends for added crema and intensity. Each type offers a unique flavour profile and caters to different coffee preferences.

Table of Contents

Arabica Coffee

What is Arabica coffee?

Arabica coffee comes from Ethiopia and makes up about 65 to 70 percent of all coffee produced in the world.

It is mostly grown at high elevations, between 900 and 2000 metres above sea level, in an area called the “coffee belt,” which is part of the Earth’s tropical equatorial belt.

The Arabica plant can grow here because it has the right kind of soil, normal rain, and sun. Many people think that Arabica beans taste better than other types because they are more complicated.

Arabicas have a lot more flavour profiles than robustas. They can taste sweet, like honey and sugar, fruity, herbal, and slightly acidic.

Because it is so easy for pests and diseases to get to, Arabica is very fragile and needs extra care.

Why is it called Arabica coffee?

Arabica coffee is called “Arabica” because it is believed to have been first cultivated in the Arabian Peninsula. The term “Arabica” derives from the word “Arabian,” highlighting the region where this coffee species was initially grown and popularized. Historical records indicate that Arabica coffee was first domesticated in Yemen, and from there, it spread to other parts of the Middle East and eventually to the rest of the world. The name reflects its origins and the significant role the Arabian Peninsula played in the early trade and development of coffee cultivation.

Where is Arabica coffee grown?

Arabica coffee is grown in several regions around the world, primarily in areas with high altitudes and tropical climates. Key growing regions include:

Latin America: Countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, and Guatemala are major producers of Arabica coffee, known for their diverse and rich flavours.

Africa: Nations like Ethiopia and Kenya are renowned for their distinctive, high-quality Arabica beans with unique fruity and floral notes.

Asia: Countries such as Indonesia, India, and Papua New Guinea also produce significant amounts of Arabica coffee, offering a variety of taste profiles.

These regions provide the ideal conditions—cool temperatures, ample rainfall, and rich, well-drained soils—that are essential for cultivating high-quality Arabica coffee.

Robusta Coffee

What is Robusta coffee?

The last 30% of coffee produced around the world is Robusta coffee, which comes from West Africa.

Because it has a lot of caffeine, it can handle being grown at lower elevations and higher temperatures without being affected by pests or diseases. This makes it easier to grow Robusta.

This coffee is liked because it has a bitter cocoa flavour with notes of nuts, hazelnuts, dark or sweet chocolate, and is a little astringent on the palate. The aroma is not as rich as Arabica. It tastes bitterer than Arabica because it has more caffeine in it.

One more thing that makes it unique is the body and how creamy it makes the drink. This kind of coffee has more body and sweetness than other kinds. But why is that?

Because it grows lower down, Robusta grain is not as thick, so there are spaces between the grains. During roasting, these areas fill up with carbon dioxide, which is a big part of what gives the cream its shape.

Why is it called Robusta coffee?

Robusta coffee is called “Robusta” because of its robust nature, referring to its strong and resilient characteristics. The term “robust” highlights the coffee plant’s ability to withstand harsher growing conditions compared to Arabica coffee. Robusta plants are more resistant to pests and diseases, can thrive at lower altitudes, and tolerate higher temperatures. This hardiness makes them easier to cultivate and often results in higher yields. The name aptly describes the durability and vigour of this coffee species.

Where is Robusta coffee grown?

Robusta coffee is primarily grown in regions with lower altitudes and warmer climates. Key growing areas include:

Africa: Countries like Uganda and Ivory Coast are significant producers of Robusta coffee, contributing to the continent’s overall coffee output.

Asia: Vietnam is the largest producer of Robusta coffee in the world, with significant production also occurring in Indonesia and India.

South America: Brazil grows a substantial amount of Robusta coffee, although it is more famous for its Arabica beans.

These regions provide warm temperatures and varying altitudes that are ideal for cultivating Robusta coffee, which is known for its strong, earthy flavour and high caffeine content.