Sampling flexibility versus the first step into steady commercial production.
Both sizes look compact, but serve different purposes. A 1 kg roaster suits training and rare lots; a 3 kg roaster reduces cycle count and better supports regular sales.
1 KG
3 KG
COMPARE THE PROCESS
01/conclusion
Choose 1 kg if you are testing a product and producing occasional small runs. Choose 3 kg if demand already calls for regular production. Confirm the choice against your weekly schedule, not maximum batch capacity.
3 KGStarting commercial production with a varied range
ESTIMATEWorking batch loadThe actual range is taken from the model specification.
approximately 0.5–1.0 kg
approximately 2.2–3.0 kg
CALCULATIONExample: 8 cyclesGreen coffee input, before accounting for weight loss and process pauses.
6.4 kg at 0.8 kg
20.8 kg at 2.6 kg
EDITORIAL ASSESSMENTProduction-run size
very small
small commercial runs
EDITORIAL ASSESSMENTProduct range
maximum flexibility
balance of flexibility and output
ESTIMATELabor per kg
higher
lower with consistent utilization
ESTIMATERoom for growth
low
medium
03/by scenario
How the decision changes
011 KG
Laboratory and samples
You need small batches, a lot of comparisons and a low daily output.
023 KG
Subscriptions and local retail
A regular volume justifies a larger batch and fewer cycles.
03DEPENDS ON THE DATA
Demand is not yet established
Validate sales and consider contract roasting first. Buying spare capacity does not create demand.
04/market data
Models to check against your requirements
Specifications are taken from Alibaba listings and checked against the linked sources. These are candidates for further investigation, not supplier rankings.
Does a 3 kg roaster always cost less per kilogram?+
Only with sufficient utilization. If batches are consistently small, a larger drum can create excess inventory and an awkward operating pattern.
Can I use a 3 kg roaster for samples?+
Yes, if the manufacturer permits that batch load. However, a dedicated sample roaster usually uses less green coffee and is more convenient for frequent comparisons.
How should I account for weight loss?+
Use your own roast-profile data. The table compares green coffee input so that a generic weight-loss assumption is not presented as a fact.
Do not choose a roaster size by guesswork
The calculator estimates cycle count and spare capacity. The planner connects those results with the premises and downstream production stages.
