Ever stood in a shop aisle, staring at coffee bags wondering whether to go light or dark roast? You’re not alone. The roast level of your beans plays a huge role in the flavour, aroma, caffeine content, and even how you brew your coffee. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between light and dark roast coffee, help you decide which suits your taste and brewing style, and answer some of the most common questions around roast types.
What Is a Coffee Roast?
Before coffee becomes the magical drink we love, green coffee beans must be roasted. Roasting transforms them through heat, unlocking flavours and aromas. The longer the roast, the darker the bean becomes, and the more the flavours evolve.
Key Roast Categories:
- Light Roast: Light brown, no oil on surface, retains original bean flavour
- Medium Roast: Balanced flavour, aroma, and acidity
- Dark Roast: Dark brown or nearly black, oily surface, bold and smoky taste
At The Daily Bean, we’ll focus on the two extremes — light and dark.
Light Roast Coffee: Bright, Fruity, and Complex
Flavour Profile:
- Fruity, floral, citrusy
- High acidity
- More “origin character” (e.g. Ethiopian = blueberry notes)
Brew Tips:
- Works best in pour-over, Aeropress, or drip machines
- Use a medium to fine grind
- Brew at slightly lower temperatures (90–92°C)
Who It’s For:
- People who love complex flavours
- Anyone curious about the bean’s origin
For a great light roast experience, try our Aeropress Brew Guide.
Dark Roast Coffee: Bold, Smooth, and Rich
Flavour Profile:
- Deep, smoky, nutty, chocolaty
- Lower acidity
- Bitterness can be more pronounced
Brew Tips:
- Works well in French press, espresso machines, or Moka pot
- Use a coarser grind for immersion methods
- Brew at hotter temps (92–96°C)
Who It’s For:
- Fans of classic, strong coffee
- People adding milk or cream (flavours hold up well)
Internal Link: Want to get the most out of your dark roast? Check out our French Press Brew Guide.
Is There a Difference in Caffeine? Yes, but it’s not what most people expect.
- By weight: Light roasts tend to have slightly more caffeine than dark roasts
- By scoop: Dark roasts are denser, so a scoop has less caffeine than light
So depending on how you measure your coffee (weight vs volume), the caffeine difference flips.
Roast & Grind Pairings
| Roast Type | Recommended Grind Size | Best Brewing Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Light Roast | Medium-Fine | Pour-over, Aeropress |
| Dark Roast | Medium-Coarse | French Press, Moka Pot, Espresso |
Not sure what grind size to use? Check out our Coffee Grind Size Chart.
How to Choose Based on Taste
| If You Like… | Go For… |
| Bright, acidic, fruity flavours | Light Roast |
| Smooth, chocolaty, lower acidity | Dark Roast |
| Milk-based drinks | Dark Roast |
| Drinking it black, no sugar | Light Roast |
If you’re unsure, start with a medium roast to find your preference.
FAQs
Q: Is light roast more acidic?
A: Yes, light roasts typically have higher acidity and brighter flavours.
Q: Do dark roasts have more oil?
A: Yes, the longer roasting process draws oils to the surface.
Q: Which roast is more bitter?
A: Dark roasts often taste more bitter due to caramelisation and burnt notes.
Q: Can I use light roast in espresso?
A: Yes, but it requires precise grinding and temperature control.
Final Thoughts
Your roast choice really comes down to your taste. Want to taste the bean’s origin with fruity flair? Go light. Prefer bold, rich sips that cut through milk? Go dark. Or switch it up depending on the brew method and mood.
Whichever roast you love, we’re here to help you brew it right.