Buying coffee: how to choose coffee that suits your taste and needs

Buying coffee online might seem straightforward, but the range is vast. Whether you're looking for coffee beans, ground coffee, coffee pads, coffee capsules or a ready-to-drink coffee, attractive flavour descriptions and well-known brand names can make it difficult to compare objectively.

Three common pitfalls to watch out for:

• A flavour name doesn't tell you everything. “Intense”, “creamy” or “rich” can mean different things from one brand to another. So also look at the roast, bean blend and brewing method.
• The packaging doesn't always suit your machine. Coffee pads for Senseo are not the same as coffee capsules for a Nespresso system. Always check compatibility before you order.
• A larger pack isn't automatically better value. Ground coffee and coffee beans gradually lose their aroma once opened. A size you can use within a few weeks can be more practical than a larger pack that stays open for a long time.

What should you look for when buying coffee?

1. First, choose the right coffee format

Your brewing method determines which coffee is suitable:

• Coffee beans: ideal for a bean-to-cup machine, espresso machine or separate coffee grinder. You grind the beans just before use.
• Ground coffee: practical for a filter machine, cafetière, moka pot or some espresso machines. Pay attention to the grind size.
• Coffee pads: convenient for a Senseo machine. Check the number of pads and the flavour intensity.
• Coffee capsules: always check the machine system, for example Nespresso. A capsule may not be universally compatible in terms of shape and size.
• Instant coffee and coffee mix: quick to prepare with hot water. A mix may contain milk powder, sugar and flavourings.
• Ready-to-drink coffee: suitable for on the go or at the office. Check the portion size, sugar content and storage instructions.

If you want to make espresso coffee, you'll usually need a fine grind or suitable beans. For filter coffee, a different grind size is standard. Turkish coffee, on the other hand, is ground very finely and traditionally prepared in a cezve or ibrik.

2. Check the beans, roast and flavour profile

The packaging often states whether the coffee is made from Arabica, Robusta or a blend. Arabica is often described as having milder, more aromatic notes. Robusta can provide a stronger profile and more crema in espresso. This isn't a guarantee of a particular flavour; the roast, origin and brewing method also play a part.

Also look out for:

• Roast level: a light roast can retain more fruity or acidic notes; a dark roast often gives a heavier, more roasted profile.
• Intensity scale: a brand-specific indication, not a universal standard.
• Flavour additions: coffee with caramel, coffee with vanilla or hazelnut may contain natural flavourings. Check the ingredients list.
• Quantity: don't just compare the number of packs, but also the total weight or volume.

With Lavazza coffee, for example, both 100% Arabica beans and blends of Arabica and Robusta are available. With Douwe Egberts coffee, you'll find filter coffee, coffee beans and coffee pads. Starbucks coffee is available as capsules and instant coffee mix. UCC coffee includes ready-to-drink black coffee in cans or bottles.

3. Look at ingredients, allergens and storage

Black coffee typically contains few ingredients: often just water and coffee for a ready-to-drink version, or only coffee for beans and ground coffee. Flavoured coffee drinks and mixes may contain sugar, milk components, fats and flavourings.

So check:

• the ingredients list;
• the stated allergens, especially milk in latte and coffee mixes;
• nutritional values per 100 ml, 100 grams or per portion;
• the best-before date on the packaging;
• storage advice after opening.

Store coffee in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. Seal an opened pack tightly. Ready-to-drink coffee often needs to be refrigerated after opening; always follow the label instructions.

Our recommendations by usage profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Douwe Egberts Aroma Red Coffee Pads

Why this suits the profile: A practical choice for everyday use with a Senseo machine, without the need for separate grinding or extra accessories.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Compatibility with Senseo is clearly stated. This means you don't have to guess which capsule system to use.

Key benefit & highlights

Medium roast, intensity 3 and flavour notes of chocolate and nuts. Suitable for several coffee styles.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking top quality

Lavazza Espresso Barista Perfetto Coffee Beans - 500 g

Why this suits the profile: For those who make espresso or lungo at home and want full control over grind and dosage.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states 100% Arabica and an intensity of 6/10. This gives you more certainty than just a general flavour claim.

Key benefit & highlights

100% Arabica, 500 grams and suitable for espresso and lungo preparation. The description mentions floral and chocolatey notes.

Suitable for: Specific use & heavy users

Kurukahveci Turk Kahvesi Coffee - 250 g

Why this suits the profile: For lovers of finely ground Turkish coffee and a traditional preparation in a cezve or ibrik.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The brewing method is specific: very finely ground coffee for a traditional method, not for a standard filter machine.

Key benefit & highlights

100% Arabica, 250 grams and a grind that suits Turkish coffee. Also usable in baking and desserts.

Suitable for: Coffee on the go

UCC MAJOR scent and rich black no sugar 185ml

Why this suits the profile: A small ready-to-drink portion for on the go, at the office or during a short break.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The contents are 185 ml and the ingredients list states water and coffee. According to the product information, there is no added sugar.

Key benefit & highlights

Ready to drink, 0 kcal and 0 grams of sugar per 100 ml according to the product information. Refrigerate after opening.

Frequently asked questions about buying coffee

Which coffee is suitable for a filter machine?

Choose ground filter coffee with a grind that is suitable for a filter holder or filter machine. Coffee beans can also be used, but they must first be ground to the correct grind size. A dark roast often gives a stronger profile, while a milder roast can taste less heavy.

What is better value: coffee beans, pads or capsules?

That depends on your consumption, machine and desired convenience. Coffee beans can be worthwhile with regular use, but require a grinder or a bean-to-cup machine. Pads and capsules are simpler per portion, but compare the number of portions and the total weight. With coffee capsules, you also need to make sure you have the right system.

How should you store coffee after opening?

Store coffee in its original, well-sealed packaging in a dry, cool place, away from sunlight and heat. Don't routinely keep coffee in the fridge, as moisture and odours can affect the quality. Use ground coffee and beans preferably within a reasonable period after opening and always follow the information on the label.