Coffee beans whole or ground?

Kaffeebohnen ganz oder gemahlen kaufen?

Buy whole or ground coffee beans

Should you buy coffee beans whole or ground? Coffee is more than just a drink. Coffee is a way of life, tradition, and philosophy. For centuries, the strong, aromatic beverage has been part of our culture. However, unlike in the past, modern coffee connoisseurs are spoiled for choice when it comes to product variety, preparation, and quality. What are the advantages of ground coffee? How do you store coffee? Many questions arise. The following overview provides clarity.

Buying whole beans

Whole beans are a gift from nature. Roasting creates the typical coffee aroma, which is stored inside the bean. To access these aromatic and flavorful compounds, the outer shell of the coffee bean must be broken and the bean itself crushed. Only then does it release its inner values.

Those who want to buy whole coffee beans and espresso beans therefore need a coffee grinder and a tiny bit of time for grinding. Unless the beans are intended for use in an automatic coffee machine, which handles the grinding and brewing of coffee and espresso for you.

In any case, you will be rewarded with a full-bodied coffee taste from freshly ground, whole beans that cannot be achieved with stored ground coffee! So, if you buy coffee beans, it's always best to buy them whole and fresh! And what are the advantages of ground coffee? Answer: for true connoisseurs, none!


But beware: The released coffee aroma is volatile. As soon as the bean is ground, the aroma immediately and steadily diminishes. Therefore, you should never grind coffee or espresso beans in advance and always use the freshly ground coffee powder quickly. Then, with freshly ground coffee beans, you can expect a particularly intense taste experience.

Grinding yourself

No matter whether you want to buy ground coffee or whole coffee beans: In our online shop you will find a diverse assortment for both product variants.

Important to know: Our coffee is delivered in aroma packaging. This has a zipper and is re-sealable. Excess air can escape through the integrated valve. Our packaging is specially developed and optimized for coffee storage.

Coffee should be stored protected from light, air, moisture, and foreign odors. Our aroma pack provides all of this. So it is not necessary to transfer the coffee into a coffee jar or coffee tin. You would rather harm the aroma by doing so.

The same applies to storage in the refrigerator. Here the coffee would be exposed to numerous foreign odors. Also, temperature differences cause the formation of condensation, which can lead to mold growth.

Unfortunately, even optimally stored coffee eventually loses aroma. Once the aroma bag is opened, you should consume it within ten to fourteen days. Unopened, coffee beans and ground coffee are ideally stored at room temperatures below 20 degrees.

What is more expensive: whole coffee beans or ground?

First of all: If you order from our online shop, you have the option to buy your coffee beans unground or already ground for all preparation methods such as French Press, hand filter, portafilter, etc. – at the same price! So, ground coffee is not more expensive with us.

When deciding between whole coffee beans and ground coffee, various factors play a role, including cost. The question of what is more expensive – whole beans or ground coffee – cannot be answered generally, as it depends on several aspects:

  1. Brands and Quality: High-quality specialty coffees, both in whole beans and ground, are generally more expensive than standard coffees. Premium brands cost more, regardless of whether they offer whole beans or ground coffee.
  2. Packaging and Processing: Ground coffee often requires more elaborate packaging to preserve freshness. This can lead to higher costs compared to whole beans, which stay fresh longer and require less demanding packaging.
  3. Shelf Life and Freshness: Whole beans stay fresh longer and retain their aroma better than ground coffee. This can lead to long-term savings, as whole beans do not go stale as quickly as ground coffee.
  4. Additional Equipment: If you buy whole beans, you will need a coffee grinder. The initial cost of a good grinder can be considerable, but it is a one-time investment that contributes to better coffee quality in the long run.
  5. Bulk Discounts and Offers: Sometimes retailers offer discounts on larger quantities or specific brands, which can affect costs. It's worth looking out for special offers or discounts.

In general, it can be said that the price difference between whole beans and ground coffee is often not significant when comparing the same brand and quality. The more decisive factor for costs is often the quality and brand of the coffee, not necessarily its form.

In the long term, whole beans could be more cost-effective, especially if you highly value freshness and aroma and are willing to invest in a coffee grinder. On the other hand, ground coffees offer convenience, which for some justifies the potentially slightly higher price.

Become a DIY-er!

True enthusiasts of self-grinding know: Nothing beats the coffee aroma that the whole bean emits even during grinding!

Would you like to try it yourself? An excellent idea! In our online shop, you can not only buy coffee beans online, but you will also find a large selection of high-quality coffee grinders. Whether it's a practical hand grinder at a lower price or a programmable "professional device" that grinds even larger quantities of coffee in no time: choose what best suits your coffee habits! A true cosmos of aromas will unfold for you!

Our most popular coffee beans


  • Espresso Emma Forte

    Price range: €10.50 to €41.00


    (41.00 / 1 kg)
    plus shipping
    Delivery time: immediately available
    Walnut, Chocolate, Toffee Select option This product has multiple variations. Options can be selected on the product page

  • Espresso Felix – The House Blend

    Price range: €12.50 to €49.00


    (49.00 / 1 kg)
    plus shipping
    Delivery time: immediately available
    Chocolate, Nougat, Toffee Select option This product has multiple variations. Options can be selected on the product page

  • Espresso Der Pate

    Price range: €11.00 to €43.00


    (43.00 / 1 kg)
    plus shipping
    Delivery time: immediately available
    dark chocolate, caramel, walnut Select option This product has multiple variations. Options can be selected on the product page

Single Origin Arabica coffee, made from 100% Arabica coffee beans, offers an unparalleled taste experience. Compared to Robusta beans, Arabica beans are characterized by a finer aroma. The carefully roasted coffee beans emphasize the rich flavor of the coffee, making every sip of fresh coffee a special treat.

Buying ground coffee or coffee beans online: What else you need to know

For self-grinders, it is important to know that the grind size is crucial for the coffee's flavor development.

Coffee ground too finely results in a very intense taste experience. However, with very fine coffee powder and a longer brewing time, many bitter substances also get into the drink.
Coffee ground too coarsely, on the other hand, does not release enough flavor. The coffee tastes watery and too weak.

Therefore, the brewing time is decisive for the grind size. Short brewing times allow for a finer grind. Longer brewing times result in the best taste with medium-fine coffee powder.

Conclusion – Buying coffee beans whole or ground:

Those who want to treat themselves to a special taste experience should opt for whole, self-ground beans. Ground coffee in no way compares to the taste and aroma of self-ground beans!

As experts, we clearly advise: Buy whole coffee beans and grind them yourself!

Organic coffee beans, espresso beans, coffee grinders, accessories, and more:
Everything you need for your coffee enjoyment can be found with us!

Frequent Questions and Answers (FAQ)

Are whole coffee beans cheaper than ground coffee?
Generally, whole coffee beans can be slightly more expensive than ground coffee. The price difference often reflects the higher freshness and quality of whole beans. In the long run, grinding beans at home can be more cost-effective as it maximizes aroma preservation and minimizes waste.

Which is better, coffee beans or powder?
Whole coffee beans are generally better than ground coffee because they retain their aromas longer. Grinding the beans directly before brewing releases the full spectrum of coffee aromas, leading to a more flavorful coffee experience.

Is grinding coffee yourself better?
Yes, grinding coffee yourself is better as freshly ground coffee offers more intense aromas and better flavor development. Grinding immediately before preparation minimizes aroma loss and increases the quality of the coffee.

Why does freshly ground coffee taste better?
Freshly ground coffee tastes better because grinding releases the aromas and oils responsible for the coffee's taste and aroma. As soon as coffee is ground, oxidation begins, which makes freshly ground coffee more aromatic and flavorful than pre-ground coffee.

Should you always grind coffee fresh?
Yes, it is recommended to always grind coffee fresh to achieve the best taste and maximum aroma development. Freshly ground coffee offers a richer and fuller coffee experience.

Which is better, fine or coarse coffee?
The choice between fine or coarse grind depends on the brewing method. Finely ground coffee is ideal for espresso and methods with short extraction times, while coarsely ground coffee is better suited for French press or cold brew, where the water is in contact with the coffee for longer. The optimal grind maximizes the taste and aroma of the coffee.