Light vs. Medium vs. Dark Roast Coffee

When choosing coffee, the roast level plays a major role in determining flavor, aroma, and body. Whether you love a bright and fruity cup, a balanced and smooth brew, or a bold and smoky espresso, understanding the differences between light, medium, and dark roasts can help you find the perfect match. In this guide, we’ll break down the characteristics of each roast, how they compare, and which one might be right for you.

Use the tool below to determine which roast level might be right for you!

What is Coffee Roasting?

Roasting transforms green coffee beans into the fresh roasted coffee we know and love. During the roasting process, heat triggers chemical reactions that develop the beans' flavors, acidity, and body. The roast level—light, medium, or dark—determines how long the beans are roasted and how much of their original characteristics remain.

Light Roast

Light roast coffee is roasted for the shortest time, typically reaching lower internal temperatures than other roasts. This is typically around first crack.

Flavor Profile:

• High acidity with bright, fruity, and floral notes
• Lighter body and a clean, crisp finish
• More pronounced origin flavors

Best For:

• Coffee lovers who enjoy single origin coffee, as light roasts highlight the bean’s natural characteristics
• Those who prefer a tea-like, delicate coffee experience
• Brewing methods like pour-over, AeroPress, or drip coffee, which enhance the nuanced flavors

Is Light Roast Stronger?

While many assume darker roasts have more caffeine, light roasts actually retain slightly more caffeine per bean because they are roasted for less time. However, the difference is minimal.

Learn More About Light Roast Coffee

Medium Roast

Medium roast coffee is roasted to an internal temperature of 410°F to 428°F, allowing the beans to develop more body while maintaining their original flavors.

Flavor Profile:

• Balanced acidity and body
• Notes of chocolate, caramel, and nuts, depending on the bean’s origin
• Smooth and well-rounded taste

Best For:

• Those who enjoy a versatile, approachable coffee with a mix of fresh roasted coffee flavors and roasting depth
• Great for coffee blends, where different beans come together for a harmonious flavor
• Brewing methods like drip coffee, pour-over, or French press

Why Choose Medium Roast?

Medium roast is often the most popular choice because it provides a balanced taste that suits a wide range of preferences. It’s neither too acidic nor too bold—just right for everyday drinking.

Learn More About Medium Roast Coffee

Dark Roast

Dark roast coffee is roasted at to and sometimes beyond second crack, giving the beans a deep, rich color and smoky aroma.

Flavor Profile:

• Low acidity with bold, full-bodied flavors
• Notes of dark chocolate, toasted nuts, and smoky undertones
• Often has a heavier, syrupy mouthfeel

Best For:

• Fans of rich, intense coffee with deep caramelization
• Those who love espresso roast coffee, as dark roasts create thick, velvety crema
• Brewing methods like espresso, French press, or Moka pot

Does Dark Roast Have More Caffeine?

Contrary to popular belief, dark roast coffee does not have more caffeine than light roast. In fact, because dark roasted beans lose more mass during roasting, they may contain slightly less caffeine per scoop.

Learn More About Dark Roast Coffee

Light vs. Medium vs. Dark Roast: Which Should You Choose?

Your choice depends on personal preference. If you love bright, complex flavors, go for light roast. If you want a balanced cup, medium roast is a great choice. And if you prefer deep, bold coffee, dark roast is the way to go.

Light Roast

Acidity: High

Flavor Notes: Fruity, Floral, Tea-Like

Best For: Pour-Over, Drip Coffee, Single-Origin and Delicate Blends

Medium Roast

Acidity: Balanced

Flavor Notes: Chocolate, Caramel, Nutty

Best For: Coffee Blends, Everyday Drinking, Versatile Brewing

Dark Roast

Acidity: Low

Flavor Notes: Smoky, Dark Chocolate, Bold

Best For: Espresso, French Press, Rich Coffee Lovers