Coffee Roast Degree/Color Calculator
Created by: Olivia Harper
Last updated:
Estimate roast color and roast-level band from practical roast endpoint inputs.
Roast Degree/Color Calculator
CoffeeEstimate roast color class and Agtron-style reference value
Related Calculators
What is a Roast Degree/Color Calculator?
Translating roast inputs into color intent
A roast degree calculator estimates roasted coffee color position to support repeatable roast style control. It provides a quick numeric and category reference for production planning.
Use it to align target style language with measurable roast outcomes.
A shared color framework improves communication between QA, roasting, and product teams. It also reduces ambiguity when profiles are transferred across operators.
Estimation Method
Weighted endpoint estimation
Color Estimate = f(Drop Temp, Roast Time, Development Ratio)
The calculator uses practical weighting logic to map roast conditions into an estimated Agtron-style value and roast degree label.
This method is best treated as a directional planning tool. Confirm final decisions with instrument readings and cupping data.
Example
Comparing endpoint scenarios
A lower drop temperature with moderate development ratio may estimate as light-medium, while higher endpoint temperatures trend toward medium-dark and dark ranges.
Documenting this relationship helps teams predict color movement when roast duration or post-crack pacing changes.
Applications
Quality language standardization
Useful for profile communication, QC checkpoints, and production consistency across shifts and batch sizes.
It is particularly useful in multi-product roasteries where style definitions need to stay consistent across many coffees.
Tips
Calibrate estimates regularly
Compare model output with measured color values on a fixed cadence. Regular calibration keeps estimated bands aligned with real production outcomes.
Calibrate estimated output against real roast color measurements for your roaster setup.
Track color with cupping notes, not as a standalone quality metric.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a roast degree calculator estimate?
It estimates roast color position from practical roasting inputs like drop temperature, total roast time, and development ratio. The output gives a directional roast-level label and approximate Agtron-style range.
Is this a replacement for Agtron readings?
No. It is a planning model, not an instrument reading. Use it to standardize profile intent, then validate with color measurement tools and cupping.
Why include development ratio?
Development ratio helps indicate how much end-of-roast progression occurred after first crack. This can influence perceived color and roast-style outcome.
Can two coffees with the same color taste different?
Yes. Processing method, density, and roast trajectory can produce different flavor outcomes at similar color values.
Sources and References
- SCA references on roast color language and quality control workflows.
- Rao, Scott. The Coffee Roaster’s Companion. Roast endpoint and profile design principles.