A kilo of coffee does not make the same number of drinks in every machine. The result depends on how much coffee each preparation uses. For a useful estimate, you need the actual dose rather than a universal cup count.
The formula: 1000 divided by the dose
One kilogram is 1000 grams. Divide that figure by the amount of coffee used for one drink:
Drinks per kg = 1000 ÷ grams of coffee per drink.
| Dose per drink — example | Complete drinks per kg, without losses |
|---|---|
| 7 g | 142 |
| 8 g | 125 |
| 10 g | 100 |
| 16 g | 62 |
These are arithmetic examples, rounded down. They are not recommended doses. A drink may use more than one extraction; if so, count all the coffee used for that drink.
Why might the actual yield be lower?
The table does not include coffee used to adjust the grinder, discarded drinks or other losses. To measure your own yield, record the amount of coffee consumed and the number of drinks served over a representative period, starting and finishing with a similar coffee level in the machine.
Do not reduce the dose simply to increase the figure in the table. Follow your equipment's instructions and assess the result in the cup.
From daily to monthly consumption
If you prepare 20 drinks a day for 22 days, that makes 440 drinks. With an actual dose of 8 g, the calculation would be 440 × 8 ÷ 1000 = 3.52 kg, before losses. Replace every figure with one that reflects your routine.
What about the cost per drink?
If a kilo costs P, the coffee cost per drink is P × dose in grams ÷ 1000. This calculation includes coffee only. Milk, energy, equipment, maintenance, delivery and waste should be considered separately.
Compare the whole-bean coffee in our catalogue. To size a solution for your team, explore our business coffee options and include your estimated consumption when requesting a proposal.
Choose the pack after doing the calculation
When buying a 1 kg bag, relate its yield to how quickly you finish it. Read our automatic-machine bean guide to choose the coffee and our cost-per-cup guide to compare beans, capsules and pods without mixing different dose sizes.