Ground Coffee vs Whole Beans: Which Is Right for You?

Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just the average java drinker, this guide’s for you. The topic of discussion today is ground coffee vs whole beans. Which is better? 

Any coffee expert would probably tell you that whole beans are the better option because it will offer a fresher cup of joe. While this is true, ground coffee also has benefits worth noting. Is whole bean coffee better than ground coffee has been a debate for years, and we’re here to settle it for you.

Read on to learn the main differences between the two and which is the best option.

Whole Bean VS Ground Coffee Explained 

The main difference between the two is simple. Whole beans are sold whole. It’s the buyer’s responsibility to grind the beans after purchase. They can do this by investing in a quality grinder or taking their beans to a local cafe. Many places will grind them for free as long as it’s been purchased from their store.

Ground coffee is made from whole beans; however, it’s grounded, packed, and then sold. It eliminates the need for buyers to find a way to grind the beans themselves and provides ultimate convenience. However, there must be a downfall to this convenience, right? 

When is Ground Coffee Better? 

Are you running late for work, and grinding whole coffee beans isn’t an option? This is where ground coffee is the better choice. While you won’t receive as fresh a cup as you would with whole beans, it’s much more convenient and quicker than grinding your own beans. Simply add a filter to your machine, pour in the coffee, and press brew. It’s really that easy (the main reason individuals opt for this option).

Another thing worth considering is the price. How much are you really willing to spend on your java? Ground coffee is for you if you’re looking for a less expensive option. Think about it – ground does not require you to invest in special equipment to prepare it. There’s also little to no learning curve when it comes to making a cup of joe using ground coffee. 

To make a cup of java, all you need is a drip machine like the popular and affordable Mr. Coffee one’s and your ground coffee. 

When is Whole Bean Coffee Better?

Many would argue that whole bean is better all the time. After all, it offers a better java drinking experience, right? 

While the end result will be a fresher, more complex cup of java, we can’t ignore that making java using whole beans takes longer and does require a learning curve. For starters, you’ll need to invest in a quality grinder and learn how to grind coffee specific to the machine you’re using. It requires much more time on your end, but once you’ve nailed down the process, it’ll become second nature.

Another great reason to use whole beans is that you’ll be able to experiment and make a wide variety of java beverages. Pre-ground is only good for drip java makers. If you want to enjoy some pour-over java, french press, or homemade espresso, you’ll need whole beans. Also, not all ground coffee is compatible with brewing devices. Grind size is very important, depending on the machine you’re using. Otherwise, you’re going to get an imbalanced brew. 

Your java is also going to taste much fresher and have a better aroma. Unfortunately, when beans are ground, they lose about 60% of their natural aroma within 15 minutes. This means that by the time you purchase your ground coffee at the store, the beans will have been exposed to air, increasing the oxidation rate, leading to a loss in flavor.

The Takeaway

When it comes down to the whole bean vs ground coffee, you need to ask yourself one thing. What’s more important to me: convenience or quality? 

If you’ve answered convenience, then ground is for you since it’s very accessible and easy to make. However, if you answered quality, then you’re better off with whole beans. Whole beans are ground moments before brewing, so you’re sure to get a more complex cup of joe.

If you’re like us, you’ll benefit from having both options. On those days where you’re a bit rushed, use your drip machine. And on those days where you have time to make your coffee, grind whole beans, and create fresher cups of joe.