Espresso vs Coffee: What's the Difference?

Espresso and coffee are both caffeinated beverages, but they differ. Espresso is a concentrated 1-ounce Italian drink made with an espresso machine from finely-ground coffee beans. In the U.S., 'coffee' typically refers to an 8-ounce cup of filter coffee brewed via auto-drip, pour-over, or French press methods. A 1-ounce espresso shot has about 64 mg of caffeine, compared to approximately 95 mg in an 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Espresso and coffee also differ in brewing method, time, ratio, taste, grind size, and potential health effects. Whether coffee is 'better' than espresso, or if the same beans can be used for both, is a matter of personal preference.

What is Espresso?

Espresso is a concentrated type of coffee made in an espresso machine from finely-ground, densely-packed coffee beans. The pressurized brewing method gives espresso a higher concentration of taste and aroma, and a thicker body than regular coffee.

Espresso serves as a base for drinks such as lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos. Fourteen percent of Americans prefer espresso for its flavor and strength, according to 2024 National Coffee Data Trends Market Research. Espresso drink consumption has increased by 50% since 2015.

Espresso originated in Italy in the early 20th century. The Italian Espresso National Institute (INEI) defines espresso according to strict guidelines as a 30 ml shot made by forcing hot water (91-96°C) at 9 bars of pressure through 7 grams of finely ground coffee under 25-second extraction time.

Italian espresso, as defined by INEI, is the result of this preparation process. It has a thick consistency, distinct crema, and distinctive flavor. A certified espresso shot must have a hazel-brown to dark-brown foam with tawny reflexes and a fine texture.

What Does Espresso Mean?

The term 'espresso' carries multiple meanings and interpretations. The word "espresso" comes from the Italian verb "esprimere," meaning "to express." The name espresso reflects the process of extracting coffee’s flavors under pressure. The term espresso also implies speed and quick preparation.

In practice, espresso brewing refers to high-pressure, forced-convection extraction method to produce concentrated coffee. The process uses rapid percolation of near-boiling water through a compacted bed of finely ground coffee particles. The extraction is pressure-driven, and the resulting beverage is called espresso. The correct spelling is "espresso," often misspelled as "expresso."

Is Espresso Stronger than Coffee?

Yes, espresso is stronger than regular brewed drip coffee because it has a higher caffeine concentration per ounce. Espresso contains 2.12 milligrams of caffeine per milliliter, while brewed coffee contains 0.40 milligrams of caffeine per milliliter, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Espresso is over five times stronger than brewed coffee.

Does Espresso and Coffee Taste the Same?

No, espresso and coffee differ in flavor because espresso is brewed under high pressure using finely ground beans. The main difference between regular coffee and espresso is flavor intensity. Regular coffee tastes lighter, smoother, and less concentrated due to longer brewing and higher water content. Espresso tastes bolder, thicker, and more aromatic, offering complex notes like chocolate, spice, or fruit depending on roast and bean type.

Daniele Carvalho Ricci, a 2023 World Barista Champion, defines a perfect Italian espresso as having intense aromas of flowers, fruit, toast, and chocolate. A well-made espresso have minimal astringency with no dominant sourness or bitterness. The flavors of espresso linger for seconds or minutes after drinking, very different from a regular drip coffee. Regular coffee is generally less bitter than espresso because it contains lower concentrations of bitter compounds.

What is Coffee?

Coffee is a broad term used for beverages brewed from roasted and ground coffee beans from Coffea arabica or Coffea robusta species. Coffee is a hot, dark, aromatic drink ranging in color from translucent amber to deep, opaque brown. The taste of brewed coffee varies based on bean type, roast level, and brewing method.

In the United States, the term “coffee” typically refers to an 8-ounce (237 ml) cup of filter coffee. Coffee in the U.S. is commonly brewed using drip, pour-over, or French press methods. Drip coffee makers are the most popular brewing method in the United States. The National Coffee Association reports that 27 percent of Americans prefer regular filter coffee over espresso.

Is Coffee and Espresso the Same Thing?

No, coffee and espresso are not the same thing, although both are caffeinated beverages made from roasted coffee beans. The primary difference between coffee and espresso is serving volume. Espresso is typically served in small 1–2 ounce (30–60 ml) shots, while regular coffee is served in 8–12 ounce (240–355 ml) cups.

What Are The Differences Between Espresso and Coffee?

Espresso and coffee differ in caffeine content, acidity, health impact, brewing method, time, ratio, and cost. Espresso has higher caffeine per ounce, more acidity, and requires specialized equipment and precise ratios. Regular coffee is less concentrated, brewed longer, uses more water, and is generally cheaper to make.

The seven key differences between coffee and espresso are listed below.

1. Caffeine
2. Acidity
3. Health
4. Equipment
5. Brewing Time
6. Water Ratio
7. Cost

1. Caffeine Difference between Espresso and Coffee

The main caffeine difference between espresso and coffee involves concentration versus total caffeine per serving. Espresso has a higher caffeine concentration per ounce but less total caffeine per serving. A 1-ounce shot of espresso (30 ml) contains about 64 mg of caffeine, while an 8-ounce (237 ml) cup of brewed drip coffee has approximately 95 mg, ranging from 70 to 140 mg, according to the USDA.

Espresso and coffee have different caffeine levels because of their brewing methods. Espresso uses high pressure and finely ground beans, extracting more caffeine per ounce in a short time. A 2022 study published in Molecules by Ewa Olechno showed that espresso contains a much higher caffeine concentration (up to 7.9 g/L, or about 174 mg in 22 mL) compared to filter coffee (0.4–1.4 g/L, or about 70–140 mg in 200 mL). Both beverages were brewed from the same Arabica beans.

2. Acidity Difference between Espresso and Coffee

Espresso is generally less acidic than regular coffee. The espresso brewing process uses high pressure and a short brewing time which reduces the amount of acids extracted from the beans. A 2013 study published in European Food Research and Technology by Reto Gloess showed that espresso had lower titratable acidity and a slightly higher pH than filter coffee. Similarly, a 2024 study published in Food Chemistry by Agnese Santanatoglia found that shorter, high-pressure extractions such as espresso produced lower levels of chlorogenic acids.

3. Health Difference between Espresso and Coffee

Espresso is not necessarily healthier than regular black coffee. Espresso may be easier on digestion for some, but it contains more coffee oils that can raise LDL cholesterol. A 2023 study titled "Association between espresso coffee and serum total cholesterol" found that consuming 3–5 cups of espresso daily increased mean S-TC by 0.16 mmol/L in men and 0.09 mmol/L in women compared to non-espresso drinkers. A 2001 meta-analysis from Yonsei University found that unfiltered coffee containing cafestol and kahweol significantly increased total cholesterol. The same analysis found that unfiltered coffee also significantly increased LDL cholesterol.

Coffee and espresso have different health impacts, especially on stomach and cardiovascular health. A 2019 Food Research International Journal study found that drip coffee (V60 and French Press) contained less chlorogenic acid (a major contributor to acidity) than espresso. While pH levels were similar across brewing methods (5.15-5.17), this suggests drip coffee might be gentler on sensitive stomachs.

Despite these differences, a 2017 British Medical Journal meta-analysis by Robin Poole from the University of Southampton reviewed 218 studies and found that both drip coffee and espresso provide health benefits when consumed in moderation (3-4 cups/day). These benefits include reduced risks of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease, and specific cancers, as shown in the table below.

4. Equipment Difference between Espresso and Coffee

Espresso requires specialized machines to reach 9 bars of pressure for extraction. These include automatic (De'Longhi, Jura, Philips), semi-automatic (Breville, Gaggia, Bezzera), and manual (Flair, Rok) machines. Espresso setups often include a portafilter, tamper, and grinder for precise dosing and pressure control. Filter coffee uses gravity or steeping for extraction and can be made with drip coffee makers (Mr. Coffee, Cuisinart, Technivorm Moccamaster), pour-over devices (Chemex, Hario V60, Kalita Wave), or immersion brewers like the French press and AeroPress.

Espresso and coffee require different grind sizes for proper extraction. Pre-ground coffee is often too coarse for espresso, which uses 7 grams of finely ground beans between 200–500 μm. Drip coffee uses a medium grind between 300–900 μm. Using the wrong grind causes under- or over-extraction, resulting in sour or bitter flavors.

5. Brewing Time Difference between Espresso and Coffee

Espresso and coffee brewing times vary. Espresso, made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee under high pressure, brews in 20-30 seconds. The Italian National Espresso Institute recommends a 25-second extraction for a classic Italian dark roast. A ristretto, a concentrated espresso, brews in under 20 seconds. Drip coffee filters hot water through grounds over several minutes. French press requires a four-minute steep. The AeroPress steeps and presses in 1.5 minutes. Turkish coffee boils finely ground beans quickly before serving.

6. Coffee-to-Water Ratio Difference between Espresso and Coffee

Espresso has a higher coffee-to-water ratio than coffee. It uses a 1:2 ratio, while regular coffee ranges from 1:15 to 1:18. A single shot requires 7-9 grams of coffee for 1-1.5 ounces (25-45 ml), while a double shot uses 14-18 grams for 2-2.5 ounces. Drip coffee and French press follow similar ratios but vary based on strength preference.

7. Cost difference between espresso and coffee

The main cost difference between espresso and coffee comes from preparation and concentration. Espresso machines range from $100–$300 for entry-level models like Breville or De'Longhi to $2,000+ for premium brands like La Marzocco, while coffee makers typically cost $20–$150 from brands like Mr. Coffee, Cuisinart, or Ninja. A single espresso shot costs about $2–$4 due to specialized equipment and higher bean use per ounce. Regular coffee costs around $1–$2 per cup, making it cheaper per serving.

How to Make Espresso?

To make espresso, start by selecting high-quality, freshly roasted coffee beans. Consider the roast level, bean type, and origin, as these characteristics will affect the taste. Grind finely, under 300 microns, for proper extraction. Warm up the espresso machine for temperature stability. Adjust the dose: 7-9 grams for a single shot, 14-18 grams for a double. Evenly distribute grounds in the portafilter and tamp with 20-30 pounds of pressure. Purge the group head for consistency. Use filtered water to enhance flavor and prevent mineral buildup in your machine. Insert the portafilter carefully and pull the shot. Aim for 20-30 seconds of extraction to produce 1.5 ounces.

What are the Best Coffee Beans to Make Espresso?

The best coffee beans to make espresso include high-quality Brazilian Arabicas for body and crema, Central American beans like Guatemalan or Costa Rican for balance and sweetness, and dry-processed Ethiopians or Tanzanian Peaberry for fruitiness and sharp complexity.

Where to Buy the Best Coffee Beans to Make Espresso?

You can buy the best coffee beans for espresso from specialty coffee shops, online stores, or high-quality local coffee roasters. Many online specialty coffee stores, such as Colipse, offer freshly roasted espresso beans for sale. For best flavor, choose "espresso blend" beans with a medium-to-dark roast. Check the roast date and buy beans roasted within two weeks.

How to Make Regular Coffee?

To make regular coffee, you can use different methods, each with unique processes. The drip method pours hot water over medium-ground coffee grounds in a filter, allowing brewed coffee to drip below. A French press steeps coarsely-ground coffee grounds in hot water before pressing the filter down. A Moka pot forces steam pressure through finely-ground coffee grounds for a concentrated brew. Turkish coffee boils very finely ground coffee in water, creating a strong coffee with sediment. The correct coffee-to-water ratio, water temperature, and steep time determine flavor.

What are the Best Coffee Beans for Drip Coffee?

The best coffee beans for drip or filter brewing include high-altitude Central American beans like Guatemalan and Costa Rican for balance and sweetness, Ethiopian beans for floral complexity, Colombian beans for a smooth profile, and Sumatran beans for deep body and low acidity.

Where to Buy the Best Coffee Beans?

You can buy the best coffee beans from specialty coffee brands, online stores, or local roasters. Many online stores, like Colipse, sell freshly roasted coffee beans. For best flavor, choose between medium to dark Arabica blends roasted within two weeks.

Can you Buy the Same Coffee Beans for Espresso and Coffee?

Yes, you can buy the same coffee beans for both espresso and brewed coffee. The main difference between espresso beans and coffee beans is the roast level. Espresso beans are roasted longer, creating a darker, shiny bean due to oils. Dark roast coffee enhances espresso with a strong, rich flavor and easier extraction. Espresso blends balance flavors, while single-origin beans highlight distinct characteristics. Coffee beans are roasted to various levels, light to dark. Roasting level and blend suit many brewing methods, not just espresso. Colipse Coffee roasts high-quality beans to order, ensuring peak flavor and aroma. Available options include light, medium, and dark roasts.

What is the Difference Between Espresso and Black Coffee?

The main difference between espresso and black coffee is the brewing method and concentration. Espresso is made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee under pressure, resulting in a strong, concentrated shot with crema. Black coffee is brewed using drip, pour-over, or French press methods, producing a milder, larger serving.

What is the Difference Between Espresso and Turkish Coffee?

Espresso and Turkish coffee differ in brewing and texture. Espresso is pressure-brewed into a concentrated shot with crema. Turkish coffee is boiled, creating a thick, unfiltered, gritty drink.