Do you want to know the differences between your coffee mugs and tea cups? Surprisingly, only a few people know the key differences between them. The guide below will take you through them and help you make the most of your favorite hot beverage. Read on to find out more.
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Major Difference Between Tea & Coffee Mugs
One of the main differences between them is that they are made uniquely so that the flavor and temperature are maximized through the material, shape and size. Typically both tea sets are served with a cup and saucer set. A saucer is a small plate on which the cup sits.
Traditionally tea is enjoyed with some regulations and is considered an elegant drink. Partly because it was the British, who brought tea to India and sipped it in exquisitely designed tea cups with dainty handles. A coffee cup, on the other hand, was a casual affair, and the coffee mugs are designed to keep the contents hot, and there is less etiquette followed. Remember that not all coffee and tea mugs are the same, and there are many variations available. Depending on the way you enjoy serving and being served, you can choose from the many collections available.
Size And Shape
Coffee cups are larger and can range from 180ml to 360ml. They are taller, wider, and often cylindrical, with the base slightly tapered for stability. The width allows for more space to hold cream and coffee. The shape of the coffee cup is designed the way it is to keep the contents hot. Unlike tea, it is not made using boiling water, and hence, it is taller, so less surface area is exposed.
Teacups are typically smaller and hold 150 to 240 ml. They have a delicate appearance and are typically curved or rounded with a wide opening to cool the tea and release aroma. Since boiling water is used to make tea, it has flared rims to cool quickly and also has optimum flavor.
Material
There is not much difference between the materials. Coffee cups are typically made from ceramics, which are non-reactive and durable. They are typically made with thick walls to insulate and retain heat, sometimes with double-wall insulation for more heat retention.
Tea cups are made from porcelain, bone china or glass. They have thinner walls for faster cooling. The design is more delicate and elegant, with intricate details and patterns. Premium quality tea cups are brought out for fine dining and are typically made from bone china. Bone ash is added to it for a translucent finish and more durability. China tea and porcelain cups are non-reactive, non-porous and have a glaze. The material used ensures that the flavors do not get altered. Glass is also a popular material for both coffee and tea cups as they are aesthetically pleasing, sleek and modern. These are used for layered coffees or flavored teas so that the infusions and color can be seen.
Handle Differences
As mentioned earlier, the oldest major difference between coffee and tea drinking is that tea consumption involves some etiquette while coffee does not. Teacups are known to have dainty handles with only a thumb or a few fingers fitting in them. This design was specifically to make sure tea drinking was elegant. So tea cups are generally smaller than coffee mugs as holding a big cup with just a few fingers does not provide stability but enough to keep the fingers away from the hot beverage. Even now, the cup’s design is that they have delicate and small handles and are intended for a pinch grip.
Coffee cups, on the other hand, hold more liquid, and hence, they have a more stable handle where you can place three or four of your fingers into them. In some coffee mugs online, you can grip the cup with your fist. Drinking coffee does not need elegance; hence, the handles are functional and sturdy with a comfortable grip. These cups have a large handle to accommodate various sizes of fingers.
Saucer
A coffee cup may or may not have a saucer. If present, it is larger and adds more utility. A teacup, on the other hand, always has a matching saucer. A tea cup and saucer online are decorative, with the saucers smaller and complementing the cup’s design.
Tips To Buy Coffee & Tea Mugs
If you buy a coffee mug set of 4 or a tea set for fine dining, here are some tips to consider when purchasing.
- Make sure that the handle is comfortable to hold
- Many cups hold different liquid capacities, so ensure that you choose the right size for your drink. It should neither be too big nor too small and should be based on the serving you take.
- Do not be too bothered about the differences between coffee and tea mugs. If you find them good, purchase them.
- If you are creating a tea set of your own, ensure that you buy the right size cups and saucers.
- If you have the habit of drinking both coffee and tea, have a variety of cups.
Conclusion
Knowing the difference between coffee and tea cups ensures that you enjoy your beverage experience to its fullest. While tea cups prioritize the release of aroma and elegance and lower the temperature for drinking, coffee mugs are made for heat retention and are sturdier and larger. Understand the difference and purchase the perfect coffee or tea mug from Wakefit to enjoy your beverage!