Standing in a coffee bar or browsing a webshop, you might notice bags labeled filter or espresso. But what exactly is the difference? And more importantly, which one best suits your taste and brewing method? At Stooker Coffee, we’re here to explain.

Filter or Espresso Refers to the Roast, Not the Machine ☕

Let’s clear up a common misconception: filter doesn’t mean you can only brew the coffee with a filter method. You can use both filter and espresso beans in an espresso machine.

The term actually refers to the roast profile. Filter coffee beans are lightly roasted, which brings out more brightness, fruitiness, and complexity in flavor. Espresso beans are roasted a bit darker, resulting in a fuller body and lower acidity — perfect for espresso shots and milk-based drinks like cappuccinos or flat whites.

How Roasting Affects Flavor

The roast level determines how the sugars and acids in the coffee bean develop. A lighter (filter) roast highlights the bean’s natural flavors, think citrus, floral notes, or berries. A darker (espresso) roast caramelizes the sugars, leading to notes of chocolate, nuts, and caramel.

So, it’s really about flavor balance and personal preference, not about which machine you use.

Which Flavor Profile Suits You?

Love bright, vibrant flavors? Then filter coffee beans are likely your match. They showcase the bean’s origin and unique characteristics. Prefer smooth, creamy coffee? Go for espresso beans. They deliver a softer, deeper flavor and pair beautifully with milk.

Stooker’s Tip

Experiment! Try brewing a filter roast as espresso, or use an espresso roast for your pour-over. You’ll notice how the same bean behaves completely differently depending on the brewing method. That’s the fun part of coffee, discovering what you enjoy most.

🌍 At Stooker, It’s All About Flavor and Precision

At Stooker Coffee Roasters, we roast every coffee specifically for its purpose - filter or espresso - to bring out the best in each bean. Whether you love lively filter coffees or rich, creamy espressos, you’ll always find a flavor profile that suits you perfectly.