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Black vs. Green vs. Oolong Tea: What’s the Difference?

Dec 01, 2025

Black vs. Green vs. Oolong Tea: What’s the Difference?

If you’re choosing between black, green, and oolong tea, the good news is: they all come from the same plant. What makes them different is how the leaves are processed — and that changes everything, from flavor to aroma. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you pick your perfect cup.

How They’re Made

Green Tea

Lightly processed and barely oxidized. Leaves are quickly heated after harvest to keep their fresh, bright taste.

Fresh, clean, sometimes floral.

Oolong Tea

Partially oxidized. Think of it as the “middle ground” between green and black tea — balanced, smooth, and complex.

Smooth and aromatic. Can be floral, creamy, peachy, or slightly toasty depending on the style.

Black Tea

Fully oxidized, which gives it its dark color and strong, bold flavor.

Rich and full-bodied — the classic “strong tea” taste.

Health Benefits in a Nutshell

  • Green tea: Lots of antioxidants, gentle caffeine, supports focus and metabolism.

  • Oolong tea: Great for digestion, balanced energy, very smooth on the stomach.

  • Black tea: Higher caffeine, great for mornings, supports heart health.

 

How to Brew Each Tea

  • Green tea: 160–180°F (1–3 min) — don’t use boiling water.

  • Oolong tea: 185–205°F (3–5 min) — great for multiple steeps.

  • Black tea: 205–212°F (3–5 min) — perfect with lemon, honey, or milk.

 

TeaDeus shortcut: our Tea Cups To Go already have premium loose-leaf tea measured out — just add hot water and steep.

 

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