The Differences Between Light, Medium, and Dark Roast Coffee
Updated - Team Colipse
The main difference between light, medium, and dark roast coffee is in color, roasting time and temperature, which impacts their flavor profile, caffeine content, brewing, and roast characteristics. Light roasts offer a sweeter taste, bright acidity, and a citrusy aroma, with low bitterness. Dark roasts are less acidic, displaying stronger bitterness and nutty or chocolate aromas. Medium roasts balance these traits, offering a body that combines bright acidity with more complex flavors.
The most visually apparent difference between dark, medium, and light roast coffee is their color. Light roasts are light brown, medium roasts are medium brown, and dark roasts vary from deep brown to nearly black. Beyond color, light, medium, and dark roasts also have distinct chemical compositions. Variations in pH, moisture, and oil content create the unique characteristics associated with each roast level. The following table provides a detailed overview of these technical differences between light, medium, and dark roasted coffee.
| Characteristic | Light Roast | Medium Roast | Dark Roast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Roasting Temperature | 120°C - 150°C (248°F - 302°F) |
160°C - 170°C (320°F - 338°F) |
160°C - 180°C (320°F - 356°F) |
| Final Roasting Temperature | 179°C - 207°C (355°F - 405°F) |
207°C - 218°C (405°F - 425°F) |
218°C - 235°C (425°F - 455°F) |
| Total Roasting Time | 4-6 minutes | 10-15 minutes | 12-20 minutes |
| Agtron Scale | 75-95 | 65-55 | 25-45 |
| Acidity Level (pH) | 4.90 - 5.30 | 4.80 - 5.10 | 4.85 - 5.10 |
| Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) | 1.2% - 1.4% | 1.15% - 1.35% | 1.15% - 1.35% |
| Caffeine Content | 1.11 - 1.15% by weight | 1.10 - 1.24% by weight | 1.02 - 1.14% by weight |
| Moisture Loss (%) | 10% - 12% | 12% - 14% | 16% - 18% |
| Weight Loss (g per 100g beans) | Approximately 10-12g per 100g of green beans | Approximately 12-14g per 100g of green beans | Approximately 16-18g per 100g of green beans |
| Bean Color | Light brown: Browning Index 0.45 | Medium brown: Browning Index 0.86 | Almost black: Browning index 1.84 |
| Volatile and Non-Volatile Compounds | Chlorogenic acids, trigonelline, caffeine, and minor Maillard reaction products | Reduced chlorogenic acids, increased melanoidins, trigonelline, and more Maillard reaction products | High levels of pyridines, furans, 5-HMF, and decreased chlorogenic acids |
| Oil Content (%) | Low, typically less than 0.5% | Moderate, typically around 1.0% | High, up to 2.0% - 2.5% |
| Antioxidant Activity (measured by DPPH radical scavenging capacity) | 88.72 mg TE/g | 84.61 mg TE/g | 78.76 mg TE/g |
| Dominant Aromatic Compounds | Floral and fruity notes with higher levels of chlorogenic acids and less pyridines | Increased pyridines, furans, and aldehydes providing a balanced flavor | Smoky, chocolatey, and burnt notes with high levels of pyridines and furans |
What is Light Roast Coffee?
Light roast coffee refers to coffee beans roasted for the shortest time compared to medium and dark roasts. Light roast coffee is roasted to an internal temperature of 355°F to 405°F (179°C to 207°C). Roasting stops just before or at the first crack to preserve acidity and light flavor notes. This shorter roast time retains more caffeine and highlights the bean’s original characteristics.
The first crack in light roast coffee occurs between 380°F and 390°F during roasting. This stage signals when internal pressure in the beans releases steam, gases, and moisture with an audible popping sound.
Light roast coffee beans have a light brown color with a golden hue and lack oil on the bean's surface. The Agtron color range for this roast typically falls between 75 and 95 on the Agtron scale. Light roast coffee ranges from light cinnamon to New England roast. Common names include Nordic, Blonde, Half City, Light City, and Cinnamon Roast.
Light roast coffee beans have a higher density than dark roast coffee. The lighter the roast, the denser the coffee bean becomes due to minimal expansion and mass loss. Denser beans require finer grinds and lower brew ratios. Light roast coffee grinds harder because density increases grinding resistance, stressing grinders and producing uneven particles if blades are dull or weak.
The following table details the key characteristics of a light roast coffee.
| Characteristic of Light Roast Coffee | Details |
|---|---|
| Light Roast Levels | Nordic Roast, Blonde Roast, Cinnamon Roast, New England Roast, and Half City Roast |
| Initial Roasting Temperature | 120°C - 150°C (248°F - 302°F) |
| Final Roasting Temperature | 179°C - 207°C (355°F - 405°F) |
| Total Roasting Time | 4-6 minutes |
| Agtron Scale | 75-95 |
| Acidity Level (pH) | 4.90-5.30 |
| Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) | 1.2% - 1.4% |
| Caffeine Content | 1.11 - 1.15% by weight |
| Moisture Loss (%) | 10% - 12% |
| Weight Loss (g per 100g beans) | Approximately 10-12g per 100g of green beans |
| Bean Color | Light brown: Browning Index 0.45 |
| Volatile and Non Volatile Compounds | Chlorogenic acids, trigonelline, caffeine, and minor Maillard reaction products |
| Oil Content (%) | Low, typically less than 0.5% |
| Antioxidant Activity | 88.72 mg TE/g (measured by DPPH radical scavenging capacity) |
| Dominant Aromatic Compounds | Floral and fruity notes with higher levels of chlorogenic acids and less pyridines |
Is Light Roast Coffee Stronger?
Yes, light roast coffee is stronger in caffeine content by volume but not in flavor. The beans are denser, so a scoop of light roast contains slightly more caffeine than dark roast, according to a 2024 study published in Scientific Reports by Zachary R. Lindsey. The researchers tested 30 roast–variety–brew combinations and found that light- and medium-roast brews consistently had higher caffeine levels than dark roasts under identical conditions. The study attributed higher caffeine retention in lighter roasts to greater mass loss in darker roasts. Caffeine levels decreased once beans reached drop temperatures above 400–420°F. However, dark roast tastes stronger due to longer roasting, which intensifies flavor but reduces caffeine.
What Does Light Roast Coffee Taste Like?
Light roast coffee has a fruity, floral, and sweet flavor profile. The secondary flavors in light roast coffee include citrus notes like lemon and lime, berry notes like blueberry and raspberry, and fresh fruit notes like peach and pear. Tertiary flavors include jasmine, bergamot, and chamomile.
Light roast coffee tastes sweet due to minimal caramelization of sugars and preserved acids, according to a 2025 study published in ES Food and Agroforestry Journal on Yunnan Arabica. The study found that higher roast levels cut sugar content by nearly 50% and shifted aroma from fruity-floral to smoky-chocolate.
Light roasted coffee is the most popular trend in specialty coffee because it preserves the bean's origin terroir. Compared to medium roasts, light roast coffee is more acidic. Light roast coffee is a good option for people who want to avoid the strong taste and heavy feeling of darker roasts.
Is Light Roast Coffee More Bitter?
No, light roast coffee is generally less bitter than dark roast, according to a 2024 study titled Impact of Coffee Roasting and Grind Size on Acidity and Bitterness by Habara and Horiguchi. The study found that bitterness increased with deeper roast levels, and dark roasts produced the strongest bitterness signals, especially with finer grind sizes. The study confirms that darker roasts produce more bitter compounds, including phenylindanes, furans, and quinic acid derivatives.
Is Light Roast Coffee Healthier?
While no roast is inherently "healthier," light roast retains more antioxidants. A 2020 study published in Journal of Environmental Science and Health by Alica Bobková found light roast coffees have the highest polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity, while dark roast has the lowest. Light roast coffee contains slightly more caffeine than dark roast coffee. A 2022 study by Eman Alamri from the Department of Nutrition and Food Science at University of Tabuk showed caffeine content in light roast coffee to be 1.13%, while it was 1.08% in dark roast.
Where to Buy Light Roast Coffee?
Colipse Coffee is the best place to buy light roast coffee because it offers fresh, roasted-to-order beans with free U.S. shipping. At Colipse Coffee, customers can choose from single origin or blend options, customize grind size, and enjoy fruit-forward flavors that showcase origin clarity and expert roasting. Choose from origins like Ethiopia, Kenya, and Costa Rica. Bags range from 12 oz to 5 lb, roasted to order and vacuum sealed.
What is Dark Roast Coffee?
Dark roast coffee refers to coffee beans roasted for the longest time compared to light and medium roasts. Dark roast coffee is roasted to an internal temperature of 425°F and 455°F (218°C and 235°C). Roasting continues well into or past the second crack, reducing acidity and developing deep, smoky flavor notes. This extended roast time decreases caffeine content and emphasizes caramelized sugars and roast-derived flavors.
The second crack in dark roast coffee occurs between 440°F and 450°F during roasting. This roasting stage signals a distinct crack sound as cell walls fracture under high heat and oils move to the surface.
Dark roast coffee beans have a dark brown to nearly black color and a shiny, oily surface caused by released oils. The color range for this roast typically falls between 25 and 45 on the Agtron scale. Dark roast coffee ranges from Vienna to French and Italian roast. Common dark roast names include Continental, New Orleans, Espresso, Italian, and French Roast.
Dark roast coffee beans have lower density than light roast coffee. The darker the roast makes the bean less dense. The darker the roast, the less dense the bean becomes due to greater expansion and moisture loss. Less dense beans require higher brew ratios and coarser grinds. Dark roast coffee grinds more easily because lower density reduces grinding resistance and produces finer, more uniform particles.
This table, sourced from 2022 study in Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences by Eman Alamri, summarizes the key characteristics of a dark roast coffee.
| Characteristic of Dark Roast Coffee | Details |
|---|---|
| Dark Roast Levels | Full City Roast, Espresso Roast, Vienna Roast, European Roast, Continental Roast, New Orleans Roast, French Roast, and Italian Roast |
| Initial Roasting Temperature | 160°C - 180°C (320°F - 356°F) |
| Final Roasting Temperature | 218°C - 235°C (425°F - 455°F) |
| Total Roasting Time | 12-20 minutes |
| Agtron Scale | 25-45 |
| Acidity Level (pH) | 4.85-5.10 |
| Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) | 1.15% - 1.35% |
| Caffeine Content | 1.02 - 1.14% by weight |
| Moisture Loss (%) | 16% - 18% |
| Weight Loss (g per 100g beans) | Approximately 16-18g per 100g of green beans |
| Bean Color | Dark brown to almost black with an oily sheen: Browning index 1.84 |
| Volatile and Non Volatile Compounds | High levels of pyridines, furans, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), and decreased chlorogenic acids |
| Oil Content (%) | High, up to 2.0% - 2.5% |
| Antioxidant Activity | 78.76 mg TE/g (measured by DPPH radical scavenging capacity) |
| Dominant Aromatic Compounds | Smoky, chocolatey, and burnt notes with high levels of pyridines and furans |
What Does Dark Roast Coffee Mean?
Dark roast coffee means coffee beans that have reached the final stage of the roast spectrum, following light and medium roasts. The main difference between light, medium, and dark roast coffee is the roasting time and resulting flavor. Dark roast coffee prioritizes roast flavor over origin or varietal characteristics.
Dark roast coffee is not the same as espresso or black coffee. Dark roast coffee refers to the roast level of the beans, not the brewing method. Espresso is a concentrated brewing method using any roast, often medium or dark. Black coffee is a serving style without milk, cream, or sugar, regardless of roast.
Is Dark Roast Coffee Stronger?
Yes, dark roast coffee has a stronger, bolder taste but contains slightly less caffeine than light roast. People usually call dark roast coffee "stronger" when talking about its deep flavor and bitterness. Despite what many believe, dark roast actually has a little less caffeine than medium or light roasts. The strong taste of dark roast coffee mainly comes from substances created during the roasting process. Extended roasting removes origin flavors and creates bitter, smoky, and caramelized compounds that overpower the bean’s original profile.
What Does Dark Roast Coffee Taste?
Dark roast coffee has a bold, rich taste with deep, caramelized flavors from extended roasting. A 2022 study by Thomas Dippong from the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca published in Foods explains that darker roasts develop higher levels of key volatile compounds including furans, pyrazines, ketones, and furan-methanol derivatives. These compounds produce smoky, roasted, nutty, and chocolate-like flavor notes. The long roasting process reduces origin flavor, lowers acidity, and removes floral notes. Dark roasts contain less acid than lighter roasts because longer roasting breaks down more acids in the beans.
The following table outlines the key flavor attributes commonly found in dark roast coffee, organized into primary, secondary, and tertiary categories.
| Primary Flavors | Secondary Flavors | Tertiary Flavors |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted | Cereal | Malt, Grain |
| Burnt | Brown/Roast, Smoky, Ashy | Acrid |
| Tobacco | Pipe Tobacco | Dry Leaf, Earthy Tobacco |
| Nutty / Cocoa | Nutty, Cocoa | Hazelnut, Almond, Dark Chocolate |
| Sweet | Brown Sugar, Sweet Aromatics | Molasses, Maple Syrup, Caramelized Sugar |
| Spices | Brown Spice | Clove, Cinnamon, Nutmeg |
| Other | Woody, Papery | Cardboard, Musty/Dusty |
Is Dark Roast Coffee Good for You?
Yes, dark roast coffee is good for you because it contains compounds that reduce stomach acid, aid in weight management, and support liver health. A 2022 study published in Nutrients by Astrid Nehlig from the University of Paris Descartes found that darker roasts stimulate less gastric acid than lighter roasts, making them easier on sensitive stomachs.
Dark roast coffee was more effective than light roast in reducing body weight and improving antioxidant markers such as vitamin E and glutathione in healthy volunteers, according to a 2024 clinical trial published in Current Research in Food Science and conducted by the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS). These metabolic and antioxidant improvements suggest potential benefits for overall liver and metabolic health.
What aret the Potential Health Benefits of Dark Roast Coffee?
The seven potential health benefits of dark roast coffee are listed below.
- Dark roast coffee is easier on the stomach.
- Antioxidant support comes from dark roast coffee.
- Dark roast coffee may support healthy metabolic responses.
- Anti-inflammatory activity is associated with dark roast coffee.
- Dark roast coffee provides niacin for health.
- Cognitive health benefits are associated with dark roast coffee.
- Dark roast coffee interacts with cholesterol-related compounds.
1. Dark roast coffee is easier on the stomach
Dark roast coffee generally has lower acidity than lighter roasts. A 2025 study by Gabriela M R N Alcantara and colleagues in Food Chemistry (Center for Nuclear Energy in Agriculture, University of São Paulo) showed that dark roasts experience significant breakdown of non-volatile compounds, which contribute to acidity. Many of these compounds are more prevalent in lighter roasts. This finding is advantageous for those with acid reflux, digestive issues, or sensitive to acidic foods.
2. Antioxidant support comes from dark roast coffee
Dark-roasted coffee beans show significant antioxidant activity, primarily due to compounds like caffeine and melanoidins formed during the roasting process. A 2023 study by Javier Gallardo-Ignacio and colleagues in Molecules found that while chlorogenic acid content decreases with roasting, dark-roasted coffee still maintains antioxidant properties without cytotoxic effects. This suggests that dark roast coffee can be a valuable source of antioxidants for consumers.
3. Dark roast coffee may support healthy metabolic responses
Dark roast coffee may enhance metabolic responses following glucose intake. A 2016 study by Filippo Giorgio Di Girolamo and colleagues in Nutrition found that consuming dark roast coffee increased post-load incretin (GLP-1) and insulin secretions compared to light roast coffee. Additionally, dark roast coffee improved redox balance and increased the omega-3 index in erythrocyte membranes. These findings suggest potential metabolic benefits of dark roast coffee, though further research is needed to confirm these effects in broader populations.
4. Anti-inflammatory activity is associated with dark roast coffee.
A 2022 study by Rafaela Cunha Matosinhos and colleagues in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that aqueous extracts from Coffea arabica beans, prepared with hot water, significantly reduced inflammation and pain in a mouse model of gouty arthritis. These effects were linked to compounds like caffeic and chlorogenic acids. While dark roast coffee was among the extracts studied, further research is needed to determine its specific impact on inflammation in humans.
5. Dark roast coffee provides niacin for health.
Dark roast coffee is a notable source of niacin (vitamin B3), which supports cholesterol management, nerve function, skin health, and digestion. During roasting, trigonelline is converted into niacin. According to the USDA and scientific reviews, heavily roasted coffees—such as Italian roasts—can contain up to 40 mg of niacin per 100 g of roasted beans. Brewed coffee retains about 85% of this content, meaning a typical cup can provide a modest but meaningful amount of daily niacin intake.
6. Cognitive health benefits are associated with dark roast coffee.
Dark roast coffee may influence the aggregation of proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease. A 2018 study by Ross S. Mancini and colleagues in Frontiers in Neuroscience found that phenylindanes, compounds formed during coffee bean roasting and present in higher amounts in dark roast coffee, inhibit the aggregation of amyloid-beta and tau proteins in vitro. These findings suggest potential neuroprotective properties, but further research is needed to determine their effects in humans.
7. Dark roast coffee interacts with cholesterol-related compounds.
A 2022 in vitro study by Cristiana L. Pires and colleagues in Foods found that dark roast coffee reduced sterol permeability by 50%, suggesting a potential to influence intestinal cholesterol absorption. Additionally, a 2015 randomized controlled trial by Kerstin Kempf et al. in the European Journal of Nutrition reported that dark roast coffee increased triglyceride levels but did not significantly affect total cholesterol. These findings indicate that dark roast coffee may influence lipid metabolism in complex ways.
Is Dark Roast Coffee Bad for You?
No, dark roast coffee is not bad for you when consumed in moderation. For most healthy adults, one to three cups per day is considered safe and generally well-tolerated. However, too much caffeine from drinking dark roast coffee can cause anxiety, restlessness, trouble sleeping, a racing heart, stomach acidity, and short-term spikes in blood pressure.
A 2014 study titled "Determination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in roasted coffee" shows darker roasts contain higher levels of heat-generated compounds like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and furan-type molecules formed during longer roasting.. The study found higher PAH levels in dark-roast coffee than in light or medium roasts due to extended roasting. However, detected levels remain far below dietary safety limits, and reviews confirm that regular dark roast coffee consumption poses no health risk to the general population.
Where to Buy Dark Roast Coffee?
To buy dark roast coffee, order directly from Colipse Coffee website. At Colipse Coffee, our dark roast coffee is roasted to order, packed fresh, and designed for bold flavor with low acidity. We offer Vienna, French, and Italian roasts tailored to espresso, drip, and cold brew methods. All U.S. orders ship free, with options in size, grind, and caffeine level.
What is Medium Roast Coffee?
Medium roast coffee refers to coffee beans roasted for a moderate amount of time compared to light and dark roasts. Medium roast coffee is roasted to an internal temperature of 405°F to 425°F (207°C to 218°C) for 10–15 minutes. Roasting usually finishes after the first crack but before the start of the second crack.
Medium roast coffee beans have a medium brown color and a dry, non-oily surface because oils remain inside the bean. The color range for this roast typically falls between 50 and 65 on the Agtron scale. Medium roast coffee ranges from City to Full City roast. Common medium roast names include American, City, City+, and Breakfast Roast.
Medium roast coffee is the most versatile because it balances acidity, body, and flavor. It preserves origin characteristics while offering a smooth taste that suits both black coffee drinkers and milk-based recipes. Medium roast coffee balances flavor and complexity without bitterness. This makes it ideal for cold brew, espresso, and drip. Medium roast is the most common roast, preferred by 49% of Americans and 62% of specialty-coffee drinkers according to a 2024 Drive Research survey.
The following table outlines the defining characteristics of medium roast coffee.
| Characteristic of Medium Roast Coffee | Details |
|---|---|
| Medium Roast Levels | American Roast, City Roast, Breakfast Roast, and Colombian Roast |
| Initial Roasting Temperature | 160°C - 170°C (320°F - 338°F) |
| Final Roasting Temperature | 207°C to 218°C (405°F - 425°F) |
| Total Roasting Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Agtron Scale | 65-55 |
| Acidity Level (pH) | 4.80 - 5.10 |
| Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) | 1.15% - 1.35% |
| Caffeine Content | 1.10 - 1.24% by weight |
| Moisture Loss (%) | 12% - 14% |
| Weight Loss (g per 100g beans) | Approximately 12-14g per 100g of green beans |
| Bean Color | Medium brown: Browning Index 0.86 |
| Volatile and Non-Volatile Compounds | Reduced chlorogenic acids, increased melanoidins, trigonelline, and more Maillard reaction products |
| Oil Content (%) | Moderate, typically around 1.0% |
| Antioxidant Activity | 84.61 mg TE/g (measured by DPPH radical scavenging capacity) |
| Dominant Aromatic Compounds | Increased pyridines, furans, and aldehydes providing a balanced flavor |
What Does Medium Roast Coffee Mean?
Medium roast coffee means a roast level, not a bean origin like “Colombian” or a marketing blend like “Breakfast Blend.” The term “medium” refers to a midpoint on the roast spectrum. However, not all medium roasts are identical. Medium-light roast coffee has a lighter brown color and keeps more original bean flavor with higher acidity. Medium-dark roast has a richer, darker color, lower acidity, and stronger roasted, chocolatey notes.
Is Medium Roast Coffee Strong?
No, medium roast coffee has a balanced flavor with moderate strength. It is stronger than light roast in flavor but less bitter and intense than dark roast. It offers a smooth, chocolatey profile with slightly more caffeine than dark roast by volume, though caffeine differences are generally small across roast levels. An 8 oz cup of medium roast coffee contains about 95 mg of caffeine brewed by drip method, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
What Does Medium Roast Coffee Taste Like?
Medium roast coffee tastes balanced, with a mix of sweetness, acidity, and body. It often features notes of chocolate, caramel, and nuts, with some floral undertones but lacks the strong citrus notes of light roasts. The acidity is smoother than in light roasts, and the body is fuller without the bitterness of dark roasts. It offers a slightly richer flavor and heavier texture than light roasts, yet avoids the harshness of dark roasts. Medium roast coffee serves as a good compromise for people unsure between light and dark roasts.
The flavor profile of medium roast coffee depends on the bean origin. Medium roast Ethiopian coffees typically have floral and citrus notes with bright acidity and a light body. In contrast, medium-roast Guatemalan and Colombian coffees offer chocolate, caramel, and nutty sweetness, with a rounded body and a clean finish. Kenyan medium roasts bring a lively acidity, berry fruit tones, and a juicy mouthfeel.
| Primary Flavors | Secondary Flavors | Tertiary Flavors |
|---|---|---|
| Fruity | Citrus, Berry, Dried Fruit | Orange, Lemon, Raspberry, Raisin |
| Nutty / Cocoa | Nutty, Cocoa | Hazelnut, Almond, Chocolate |
| Sweet | Brown Sugar, Sweet Aromatics | Caramel, Maple Syrup, Honey |
| Floral | Floral | Jasmine, Chamomile |
Is Medium Roast Coffee Good?
Yes, medium roast coffee is a great choice for most people. It offers a balanced flavor profile with moderate acidity, more origin character, and higher levels of antioxidants like chlorogenic acids compared to dark roasts. Medium roast coffee is good for people who want balanced flavor, moderate acidity, and steady caffeine without harsh bitterness. It suits most healthy adults. However, those with acid reflux, heartburn, or caffeine sensitivity may need to avoid or limit it due to its acidity and stimulant effects.
What are the Health Benefits of Medium Roast Coffee?
The five primary health benefits of medium roast coffee are listed below.
- Medium roast coffee supports antioxidant activity.
- Energy levels are maintained with medium roast coffee consumption.
- Medium roast coffee contributes to healthy metabolic function.
- Cardiovascular wellness is gently supported by medium roast coffee.
- A positive mood is encouraged by medium roast coffee.
1. Medium roast coffee supports antioxidant activity
Medium roast coffee preserves significant antioxidants-less than light roasts, but more than dark. A 2023 study by Pratibha V. Nerurkar and colleagues in Metabolites from University of Hawai'i at Manoa showed that roasting reduces chlorogenic acids, yet medium roasts maintain meaningful antioxidant levels. A 2023 study by Sevinc Yildirim et al. in the Journal of Food Science and Technology found that Arabica coffee’s antioxidant activity varies by roast, with medium roasts balancing preserved chlorogenic acids and melanoidins. These compounds support blood vessel health and metabolic processes.
2. Energy levels are maintained with medium roast coffee consumption
Medium roast coffee provides higher caffeine content than dark roast coffee, when measured by weight. A 2025 study by Gabriela M R N Alcantara and colleagues in Food Chemistry (Center for Nuclear Energy in Agriculture, University of São Paulo) confirmed that this higher caffeine level plays a key role in stimulating the central nervous system and enhancing alertness.
3. Medium roast coffee contributes to healthy metabolic function.
A 2025 study published in Nutrients found that Turkish coffee made with a 1:1 blend of medium and dark roasted Arabica beans significantly reduced heart rate from 78.0 to 71.5 bpm after 90 minutes and improved appetite regulation and sleep perception compared to water.
4. Cardiovascular wellness is gently supported by medium roast coffee.
A 2015 randomized controlled trial by Kerstin Kempf et al. in the European Journal of Nutrition (West-German Centre of Diabetes and Health) found overweight adults who drank 4–5 cups per day of a medium roast coffee blend experienced a significant increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels, with no change in body weight or blood pressure.
5. A positive mood is encouraged by medium roast coffee.
Medium roast coffee can positively affect mood. A 2024 study by Dr. Arthur Merigueti de Souza Costa and colleagues in Food Research International highlighted that sensory evaluations of coffee show that its volatile compounds, which are chemical substances that easily evaporate and contribute to aroma and flavor, enhance mood. The study emphasizes how different roasting levels influence the chemical makeup and sensory characteristics of coffee.
Where to Buy Medium Roast Coffee?
To buy medium roast coffee online, visit colipsecoffee.com. Colipse offers medium roast coffee in whole bean or ground options with free U.S. shipping. Choose by grind size, origin, flavor, or caffeine level. Options include Colombian, Guatemalan, and espresso blends in 12 oz, 2 lb, and 5 lb bags for all brewing methods.
How to Choose Between Light Medium and Dark Roast Coffee?
To choose between light, medium, and dark roast coffee, match roast level to flavor preference. Light roasts taste brighter and preserve origin flavor. Medium roasts offer balanced taste and acidity. Dark roasts produce bold, smoky notes. Choose light for fruitiness, medium for balance, and dark for richness. Consider the following steps to help you make the best choice.
- Determine your taste preference: Choose light roasts for bright, fruity or floral notes, or dark roasts for bold, smoky, or chocolate flavors.
- Match the roast to your brewing method: Use dark roasts for espresso and light roasts for pour-over or drip to highlight flavor nuances.
- Explore bean origin for flavor variety: Select beans from different regions to experience distinct profiles and discover your favorite combinations.
What Does Roast Mean in Coffee?
Coffee roasting is the heating process that turns green coffee beans into brown ones. This process creates light, medium, and dark roasts by changing the beans' makeup, which sets the final taste and smell. The four roasting stages—drying, browning, first crack, and development—affect the beans differently. Light roasts are defined by the early drying and browning stages, keeping more of their original flavor. Medium roasts get their character by reaching the midpoint between the first and second crack and cooking a little longer. Dark roasts cook for a much longer time, continuing past the second crack, which results in strong, smoky, and less acidic tastes.
What are the Different Types of Coffee Roasts Levels?
Different types of coffee roast levels measure how much coffee beans are roasted, from light to dark. The Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) classifies coffee roast levels using the Agtron Gourmet Coffee scale. This 8-disc system, developed in the 1970s, identifies roast levels from "very light" to "very dark" and uses an Agtron® spectrophotometer with infrared light. The longer the roast, the darker the bean and the bolder the flavor. The following table shows 8 different types of coffee roast levels categorized by light, medium, and dark roasts.
| Coffee Levels | Coffee Darkness Scale | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Very Light | Light Brown (Agtron 95) | High acidity with underdeveloped, grassy flavors. |
| Light | Light Brown (Agtron 85) | Bright acidity with mild body and floral notes. |
| Moderately Light | Medium Light Brown (Agtron 75) | Balanced acidity and sweetness with a more developed body. |
| Light Medium | Medium Brown (Agtron 65) | Complex flavors with a balance of acidity, sweetness, and body. |
| Medium | Medium-Dark Brown (Agtron 55) | Richer body, muted acidity, and enhanced caramel notes. |
| Moderately Dark | Dark Brown (Agtron 45) | Smoky, caramelized flavors with a bold body. |
| Dark | Very Dark Brown (Agtron 35) | Bittersweet chocolate notes with low acidity and smoky undertones. |
| Very Dark | Blackish-Brown (Agtron 25) | Charred, burnt flavors with minimal sweetness and acidity. |
Does Light Medium or Dark Roast Have More Caffeine?
Light roast coffee has slightly more caffeine than medium or dark roasts by weight. Roasting reduces the bean’s mass, so light roast beans retain more caffeine. However, when measured by volume (e.g., scoops), the caffeine difference between light and dark roast is minimal and often negligible.
Which Coffee Roast is Less Acidic?
Dark roast coffee is less acidic than light or medium roast. The longer roasting time breaks down chlorogenic acids, which are responsible for acidity of coffee. Cold brew made with dark roast also further reduces acid levels, making it a gentler option for sensitive stomachs.
Which Coffee Roast is Healthiest?
Light roast coffee is generally considered the healthiest because it has high levels of antioxidants like chlorogenic acid. These antioxidants support metabolic health and reduce inflammation. A 2020 study by Alica Bobková from the Department of Food Hygiene and Safety at The Slovak University of Agriculture analyzed ground coffee beans from green, light, medium, and dark roasts. The study reported that dark roast beans showed the lowest polyphenol content and lowest total antioxidant capacity, while light and light-to-medium roasts scored higher.
Medium roast offers a balance of lower acidity and antioxidant content. Dark roasted coffee beans have much higher melanoidin levels compared to medium or light roasts. A 2023 study by Javier Gallardo-Ignacio and colleagues in Molecules from Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa found that dark roasts contain 97 mg/g of melanoidins, while medium roasts have only 29 mg/g. Melanoidins are compounds that enhance antioxidant capacity and contribute to the distinct flavor of dark coffee. Dark roast coffee is also better for those with acid reflux or brewing without a paper filter. Light roasts retain the highest acrylamide levels, while medium and dark roasts contain progressively less.
Is Dark Roast Coffee Carcinogenic?
No, dark roast coffee is not carcinogenic. It contains lower levels of acrylamide, a potential carcinogen, than light roast due to longer roasting. Health agencies, including the International Agency for Research on Cancer, have found no evidence linking acrylamide in coffee to increased cancer risk. Moderate coffee consumption may even reduce cancer risk.