Whole beans or ground coffee: which do you choose? The answer depends on what you consider important, taste or convenience, and whether you have a grinder. Below we explain the difference and help you choose.
What happens when coffee is ground?
As soon as you grind coffee beans, much more coffee comes into contact with air. As a result, aromas dissipate more quickly and the taste changes more quickly. A whole bean retains its aroma longer. Read more in why grinding fresh is essential.
Whole beans and ground coffee side by side
| Whole beans | Ground coffee | |
|---|---|---|
| Aroma | Retained longer | Dissipates more quickly |
| Convenience | You need a grinder | Ready to use immediately |
| Grind | Can be adjusted yourself per brewing method | Fixed |
Choose whole beans if you…
- want to get the most flavor out of your coffee;
- can grind yourself, even with a hand grinder;
- use different brewing methods and want to adjust the grind.
Unsure about a grinder? Read which hand grinder is right for you? or which coffee grinder is right for you?
Choose ground coffee if you…
- don't have a grinder;
- consider convenience more important than that last bit of aroma;
- know the right grind for your brewing method (see best grind size per brewing method).
Keep ground coffee delicious longer
- Buy a small bag and use it up quickly.
- Seal the bag tightly or store the coffee airtight.
- Store it cool and dark. More tips are in storing coffee: this is how your beans stay fresh longer.
Coffee beans at Koffie Kenner
At our store you buy coffee beans. Choose by origin, taste and roast level and grind them just before brewing. Not sure yet which coffee suits you? Read which coffee suits me?
Ready to taste?
- Check out our specialty coffees.
- Keep your beans fresh with an Airscape storage jar.
