Buying coffee beans online gives you access to fresher coffee than most shop shelves, as long as you know what to look for. These six checks will help you choose well.
1. Freshness
This matters most. Choose a seller who roasts to order or tells you when the coffee was roasted. Read why in our guide on freshly roasted coffee.
2. The bean
Check whether the coffee is Arabica, Robusta or a blend. Arabica is smoother and more aromatic; Robusta is stronger and more bitter. Our Arabica vs Robusta guide explains the difference.
3. Roast level
Light roasts are brighter and suit black coffee. Dark roasts are bolder and hold up to milk. Medium-dark sits in between and works for most brewing methods. See our roast guide.
4. Whole beans or ground
If you own a grinder, buy whole beans and grind just before brewing. If not, ask for the coffee to be ground for your brewer: fine for espresso, medium for pour-over, coarse for French press and the South Indian filter.
5. Pack size
Buy an amount you will finish within a few weeks of opening. A bigger pack is better value only if you drink it while it is fresh.
6. The roaster
Buying directly from a roaster means fewer hands between the roast and your cup. Look for clear information about where the coffee comes from, and a phone number or WhatsApp you can reach.
Sundar Coffee is a roasting unit in Chennai. We roast 100% Arabica beans to order in light, medium-dark or dark roast and ship within a day of roasting. Buy roasted coffee beans online.
