Arabica vs Robusta Coffee: Similarities and Differences

When you walk down to your favourite Happy Goat or browse our selection of coffee beans, you’ve probably noticed the terms Arabica and Robusta. These aren’t just fancy names — they represent the two most widely consumed coffee species in the world. But how do they differ, and which one is the right choice for your taste buds?

In this chapter of The Goat's Notes, we’ll dive into the similarities and differences between Arabica and Robusta coffee beans, exploring everything from taste and aroma to cultivation and price. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to choose your perfect brew.

What are Arabica Coffee Beans?

Arabica Coffee (Coffea Arabica)

Arabica is the most popular coffee species, accounting for about 70% of the world’s coffee production. It was first discovered in the high-altitude regions of Ethiopia (read more about How Coffee was Discovered) and is now grown in regions with higher elevations, such as Central and South America, East Africa, and select parts of Asia.

Arabica is cherished for its smooth, sweet flavour profile, often with notes of chocolate, fruit, and floral undertones. The beans are flat, elongated, and have a distinctive curved crease down the middle. Arabica plants are more delicate, requiring specific growing conditions such as higher altitudes, cooler temperatures, and shade. This makes them more challenging to cultivate, which is why Arabica coffee tends to be more expensive.

If you’re looking for a premium Arabica coffee experience, look no further than our Brazilian Mogiana Espresso. This specialty-grade espresso roast highlights the best of Arabica with its chocolate, bittersweet, and nutty flavor notes. It’s the perfect choice for those seeking a rich, smooth espresso with just the right balance of sweetness and depth.

What are Robusta Coffee Beans?

Robusta Coffee (Coffea Canephora)

Robusta makes up 30% of global coffee production. It’s known for its strong, bold, and sometimes bitter flavour, with earthy and nutty notes. The beans are smaller, rounder, and have a straighter crease compared to Arabica beans.

Robusta is grown at lower altitudes and is much more resistant to pests, diseases, and extreme weather. This is due to its higher caffeine content (almost double that of Arabica beans), which acts as a natural insect repellent. The plant is hardier, requires less care, and produces higher yields, making it cheaper to grow and, subsequently, more affordable for consumers. This is one reason why Robusta is often found in instant coffee and espresso blends.

For a coffee experience that blends the best of both worlds, try our Forza Espresso. This unique blend of Arabica and Robusta beans delivers the strength and boldness of Robusta with the smooth sweetness of Arabica. The result? A cup with a thick crema, full body, and bittersweet flavor — perfect for espresso lovers who crave richness and depth in every sip.

What Do Arabica and Robusta Taste Like?

The most noticeable difference between Arabica and Robusta is their flavour profiles.

Arabica: Expect a smooth, sweet, and nuanced taste. It often has hints of chocolate, fruit, and berries, and depending on where it’s grown, it might carry floral notes or a subtle acidity. This is why Arabica is the bean of choice for specialty coffee.

Robusta: Robusta packs a punch. Its flavour is strong, bold, and distinctly bitter. Some describe it as having notes of earth, wood, or rubber, especially in lower-quality Robusta. However, high-grade Robusta can have a nutty, chocolatey taste and is used in premium espresso blends for its ability to produce a rich crema.

How Arabica and Robusta are Grown

Arabica grows at higher elevations (2,000-6,000 feet above sea level) in regions with cool climates, often shaded by trees to avoid too much sun exposure. The plant takes several years to mature and is more delicate, requiring protection from pests and disease.

Robusta, on the other hand, thrives at lower elevations and warmer temperatures. It grows in areas where Arabica would struggle, such as Southeast Asia, parts of Africa, and Brazil. The Robusta plant is more resilient, producing higher yields with less effort from farmers.

One interesting fact: Because of its genetic makeup, Arabica can self-pollinate, while Robusta requires cross-pollination. This genetic difference also makes Arabica beans more genetically stable, while Robusta is more likely to produce variations.

Caffeine Content: Does Robusta Really Have More Caffeine?

Yes, Robusta has nearly double the caffeine of Arabica. While Arabica contains 1.2% to 1.5% caffeine, Robusta packs 2.0% to 2.7%. This difference in caffeine content not only impacts flavour, but also serves a practical purpose. The higher caffeine in Robusta acts as a natural insecticide, protecting the plant from pests.

For coffee lovers, this means Robusta will deliver a stronger, more energizing boost. But it also explains why Robusta’s flavour is more bitter — caffeine is naturally bitter. If you’re looking for a smooth, mellow cup of coffee, Arabica is the better option.

Why is Arabica More Expensive?

1. Higher Cost of Production: Arabica requires more care, higher altitudes, cooler temperatures, and pest control.
2. Longer Growing Time: Arabica takes longer to mature, meaning fewer harvests.
3. Lower Yields: Arabica produces fewer beans per plant compared to Robusta.

Robusta, on the other hand, is cheaper to grow, yields more beans, and is naturally pest-resistant, which is why it is often used in commercial coffee blends and instant coffee.

Which Should You Choose? Arabica, Robusta, or a Blend?

If you prioritize taste, quality, and aroma, go for Arabica. It’s ideal for black coffee, pour-overs, and drip coffee where the flavour can shine. However, if you prefer strong, bold flavours (like in espressos or robust blends), Robusta can be a great option — especially when used in a blend.

Blends like our Forza Espresso are where the magic happens. Many coffee roasters like us combine Arabica and Robusta to get the best of both worlds: the smooth, sweet notes of Arabica with the bold strength and rich crema of Robusta. This is common in Italian-style espresso blends. 

Final Sip: Arabica vs Robusta

Arabica is the superstar of specialty coffee, loved for its complexity, smoothness, and sweet flavour. Robusta is the powerhouse bean, known for its strength, boldness, and energy-packed caffeine content. Both beans have their place in the coffee world, and many roasters like ourselves sometimes blend them to craft the perfect cup.

The next time you’re choosing coffee, consider what you’re craving — a light, fruity sipper or a bold, hearty brew. Regardless of your choice, remember that each coffee tells a story of where it was grown, how it was processed, and the passion of the farmers who brought it to life.

So, which side are you on? Arabica, Robusta, or a Blend? Let us know in the comments below!