Testing began for each subscription by visiting each website to compare subscription options. Many sites included a preliminary quiz to evaluate a coffee drinker’s preferences, including the type of roast, frequency of shipments, and preparation method.
We consider subjective factors to understand not only how simple and efficient each delivery is to your home, but also how well the coffee tastes and whether the overall value of each bag of coffee justifies the price. To do this, I tasted each order black as a cup of pour-over coffee or as a double shot of espresso. I ordered whole beans and ground according to the preparation using a Barizza grinder.
Since taste depends on personal preference, I evaluated the beans based on whether they aligned with the roast I ordered, any provided tasting notes, acidity level, and complexity of the flavors. I also considered the price and volume of a standard bag, along with how well I enjoyed the coffee, as part of the overall value. Another major factor in testing involved the simplicity of ordering, canceling a subscription, and the frequency of email notifications for reminders ahead of an upcoming shipment, as well as the ability to track a shipment and receive updates about delivery.
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