There are two types of people. Cup people and mug people. Have you ever considered if there is a distinction between the two? It might not have crossed your mind until now. To be frank, our primary focus when consuming coffee from a mug or cup is the liquid within rather than the vessel in which it came.
Despite both objects having the same importance in delivering coffee, mugs and cups have distinct design structures. The form and function of them vary, and the kinds of coffee drinks in each one are usually quite distinct.
Let’s explore the differences between coffee cups and mugs.
The Shape of Brew
The primary distinction between a coffee cup and a coffee mug is their respective forms. A coffee cup is generally delicate and less substantial, while a coffee mug is strong and convenient. The designs of coffee mugs and cups offer distinct benefits.
Coffee Cups: Dainty and Delicate
Mugs are sturdier than cups when it comes to coffee vessels. This is why they are only used if you are intending to stay in one spot as you enjoy your beverage and the customary conversation with your buddies. You won’t find anyone with a mug of coffee on a train or sauntering through a city center. I can already hear porcelain smashing.
Coffee cups are typically short and wide. The width of the rim is larger than the width of the bottom. Coffee cups narrow from top to bottom. Imagine the shape of an upside-down bell. The top of a coffee mug is broader in size than its height.
Drinks served in coffee mugs are stronger and offered in smaller servings. Hence a smaller cup. The size of the cup and its wide brim lead to an even distribution of coffee around the surface. Thus, drinks that are in coffee mugs tend to become cold more rapidly.
We typically pair a cup with a saucer. The saucer has a couple of practical uses. Putting the saucer underneath the cup makes it simpler to transport, especially since it is more fragile and gets hot faster than a mug. You can use the saucer as a lid for the cup to keep your coffee warm, or alternatively pour some of the coffee into the saucer to help it cool down faster.
Coffee cups have smaller, thinner handles than coffee mugs. You can hold a coffee cup with two or three fingers, leaving your pinky off the handle.
Coffee Mugs: Portable and Practical
Mugs made for coffee are more robust, larger, and can be transported more easily than coffee cups. If you plan on carrying your coffee somewhere, make sure it’s in a cup or mug. A mug is more versatile overall.
Due to the popularity of taking caffeinated drinks to go, the invention of the “travel mug”, which can also be referred to as the “adult sippy cup”, was created. This invention has been especially useful for me as it often stops my coffee from spilling onto my lap during my daily journey. A mug will guard against both burning and spilling your coffee. A coffee cup won’t be so kind.
Mugs are taller than they are wide. Generally, these vessels are equal in size from the top and bottom, and have a shape that is more like a cylinder than a bell. They also allow more space for coffee.
The coffee mug handles are bigger. Typically, it is possible to fit a couple of fingers inside the hoop of the handle of a cup, giving an extremely secure grip while holding a drink. And to keep your hands warm.
Mugs vs Cups: What Are the Differences Between Them?
Size
The primary distinction between a coffee mug and a coffee cup is the amount of liquid they can hold. A coffee mug is capable of accommodating a greater amount of liquid than a cup.
Typically, coffee mugs are able to accommodate about 6 fluid ounces, which is less than two deciliters. These beans are exactly the right size for creating a full-bodied, delicious espresso, macchiato, or cafe latte.
An average-sized coffee cup can accommodate about 8 ounces of liquid, and a normal coffee mug is capable of holding up to 12 ounces. By contrast, a cup can only accommodate 8 ounces of liquid. If you are looking to make a large amount of coffee, choose a cup. The least amount of coffee can be found in a demitasse cup – with only 2-3 ounces of liquid, it is best used for serving strong espresso-based beverages.
This extra size can be handy if you desire to have a big mug of coffee or tea. It can be advantageous if you desire to include cream or sugar into your beverage.
Material
Mugs come in more different materials than cups do. Mugs can be constructed from glass, plastic, paper, bone china, or metal.
Mugs may be composed of ceramic, glass, or metal material. The most widespread kind of mug is constructed out of ceramic material. Alternately, certain coffee cups, for example, those for takeaway purposes, are made up of disposable elements like paper.
It is uncommon to find coffee cups made from materials other than stainless steel.
Design
Regarding design, mugs and cups share many similarities. Mugs and cups can be found in an array of distinctive hues and patterns.
You can come across mugs and cups that are single-colored, with designs, or with logos like zigzags, spots, blooms, and so on. Mugs and cups that have been especially made for holidays like Christmas and Valentine’s Day can also be found.
Handle
Some mugs and cups possess a handle, yet others do not. This handle will help mugs to be held more securely when full of a hot beverage, making it easier to avoid spilling. Previously, I had mentioned that the handles on coffee mugs tend to be wider than the handles on coffee cups. The design of a coffee mug should allow for two or three fingers to fit comfortably in its handle. Coffee cups, however, cannot.
Some cups come with covers, which are beneficial in keeping your beverage at the desired temperature for extended time periods. Lids can also prevent spills.
Ease of cleaning
After every cup and mug you use, it is advisable to clean it right away so that you will have a better feeling. It is simple to use one piece of soap and one sponge to wipe your mug spotless. Although the case has the texture of paper, it will be difficult to clean and may leave an unsightly residue on your mug if you don’t address it in a timely manner.
Shape
Mugs usually have a handle and have a cylindrical structure, whereas cups can be of any design. The bottom of coffee mugs is usually narrower than the rim. The rim of an ordinary coffee mug is broader, allowing for appreciation of the crema and flavor at its best. The bottom of a coffee mug typically has the same diameter as its rim. Having a bigger form gives them a tougher look and makes them better equipped for accommodating greater volumes of liquid.
Formality
Mugs are often seen as more casual than cups. Mugs may be applicable in laid-back and sophisticated situations. A coffee shop serves coffee in a cup.
Additionally, restaurants typically favor mugs as beverage holders due to its greater capacity.
Thickness
Mugs are usually thicker than cups. The design of these items is such that they can contain a greater amount of liquid and maintain its temperature for a greater duration. Mugs, on the contrary, are thinner so they can dissipate heat quicker.
Durability
Mugs are usually sturdier than cups since they are constructed of more resilient materials. Mugs that are constructed from resilient substances like bone china or glass can be just as long-lasting as any other cup.
Regarding longevity, it depends on what substance the mug or cup is composed of.
Which One Is Better?
There is no definitive answer to this question. It depends on your personal preferences. Some individuals may opt to drink coffee out of a mug while others might opt for a cup. It boils down to what makes you the most at ease. It would be a good idea to try both options and decide which you prefer.
The best coffee cups
Have a look at our compilation of the finest coffee cups to discover the ideal one for you.
- If you want a durable cup that can keep your drink hot for hours, we recommend the Bodum Pavina Glass Cup. This cup is made from high-quality borosilicate glass, which makes it durable and resistant to thermal shock. It also has a double-wall design, which keeps your drink hot without burning your hands.
- If you’re looking for a cup that’s easy to clean, we recommend the Bormioli Rocco Electra Glass Cup. This cup is made from durable tempered glass, which is dishwasher safe. It also has a smooth, non-porous surface that resists staining and odor absorption.
The best coffee mugs
- Our favorite coffee mug is the Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug. This mug is made from high-quality stainless steel, which makes it durable and easy to clean. It also has a vacuum-insulated design, which keeps your drink hot for hours.
- If you want a mug that will keep your drink hot for hours, we recommend the Contigo Autoseal West Loop Vacuum-Insulated Stainless Steel Mug. This mug has double-wall vacuum insulation, which keeps your drink hot for hours. It also has a leak-proof lid, which makes it perfect for the go.
The Coffee Vessel in Its Natural Habitat
I previously alluded to it, but coffee cups and coffee mugs are employed in distinct circumstances and scenarios. You will have a different coffee experience with each. A cup of coffee is better suited to a relaxed, social environment, while a mug of coffee is more convenient for people on the go.
Cup in a Cafe
Mugs are seen as less refined than coffee cups. Drinking coffee is an experience that goes beyond the requirement for consuming caffeine.
Generally, drinking coffee from a cup looks nicer than consuming it from a mug. Coffee makers take great care in preparing their beverages and often create beautiful designs on the froth. Coffee making can be thought of as a type of art, combining interesting mixtures of flavors, but the cups they are served in can add an even greater layer of artistry with unique visuals.
Taking a break to enjoy a cup of coffee is calming. It inspires one to pick up a book or have a conversation with a companion in a cafe regarding philosophy. Consuming coffee from a cup gives me a sense of refinement. Sometimes when I’m sprinting off to start the day with my cup of coffee, I feel like a fiend for caffeine.
Mug on the Move
Referring to the consumption of caffeine, the coffee mug is in a classification distinct from the coffee cup. It’s built for a different habitat. The steaming cup of coffee in a mug is like the fuel that gives you the strength to get through each hectic day. Pour the contents of the container quickly into a mug and dart out of the house. Consuming it in a vehicle while heading to the office. There are no coffee breaks for your mug. It could be possible to heat it up using the microwave several times during the day.
A pleasant cup of coffee is a dependable and versatile friend. A coffee cup would not be able to thrive in such an unfriendly atmosphere.
It’s What’s Inside That count
Mugs and cups are intended for different types of coffee beverages. Mugs are intended for espresso-based beverages that are made in smaller, more condensed amounts. Mugs are made for larger servings of coffee-based beverages.
Aren’t Coffee and Espresso the Same Thing?
I’m glad you asked. Technically, both coffee and espresso are coffee beverages. However, espresso is a subcategory of coffee. This means that although all espresso is a type of coffee, not all types of coffee are espresso.
The distinction is in the manufacturing process of the drinks. Espresso beans have the same origin as coffee beans; however, they are cooked to a greater extent, creating a more intense taste that is accompanied by a fuller, richer body. The extended amount of time enables the beans to become darker and more absorbent.
Espresso beans are also ground into a finer powder. This reduces the porosity of the grounds, making it more difficult for water to pass through the particles due to decreased space between them. Therefore, a greater force must be used to have the water go through the filter. Creating espresso involves a good deal of process, but the essentials are described above.