Wagyu vs. Angus. What’s the Difference?

What makes Wagyu vs Angus beef different? We put marbling, flavors, costs, and availability head to head so you can get the best beef for you.

Not all beef is created equal. Choosing between Wagyu and Angus beef can be as challenging as deciding between your favorite pizza toppings. Both are premium beef options, but they come with distinct characteristics. Here are the beefy details!

Key Differences between Wagyu and Angus beef

FeatureWagyuAngus
OriginJapanScotland
MarblingHigh (fine, intricate)Moderate (coarser)
FlavorRich, butteryRobust, beefy
TextureTender, melts in your mouthFirm, juicy
CostPremiumAffordable (relative to Wagyu)
RarityRare (especially A5 grade)More common

What kind of marbling does Wagyu vs Angus have?

An image of the marbling on a wagyu steak
Wagyu beef has intense marbling

Wagyu beef has a higher degree of fine, uniform marbling and softer, lower-melting-point fat, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Angus beef, while well-marbled, has less intense marbling and firmer fat, offering a tender yet less silky texture.

When you throw a Wagyu steak on the grill, there’s a good chance it will burst into flames from the fat-rich beef.

Wagyu: Known for its high marbling, which means more intramuscular fat. This results in a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Angus: Has good marbling but not as extensive as Wagyu. Expect a beefy, robust flavor that’s a bit less fatty.

👑Winner: Wagyu

What does Wagyu vs Angus taste like?

The flavor and texture of beef depend largely on its feed, genetic development, and how it’s raised. At Bella Cattle, the Wagyu cow genetics we primarily breed for are things like a calm temperament and most importantly, the ability to develop highly marbled meat.

Despite its incredible tenderness, Angus beef offers a strong, robust flavor that differentiates it from Wagyu’s rich, buttery flavor.

Wagyu: Rich and luxurious, often described as having a delicate sweetness. The texture is so tender it practically melts.

Angus: Bold and hearty. Angus beef is firmer and juicier, offering a classic steak experience.

👑 Winner: Tie. Both Wagyu beef and Angus beef are most different in their flavor and texture, so make sure to try them both yourself to see which you prefer.

How much does Wagyu beef cost?

Angus beef enjoys wider global availability, whereas Wagyu is more of a novelty; its limited supply coupled with high demand result in a higher price point. Hence, it’s seen as rarer and more unique. This economically inclined shift positions Wagyu as a luxury product, with many viewing it as a superior dining experience worth its premium.

Wagyu: American wagyu typically costs upwards of $15 to $40 per pound.

Angus: Black Angus like ours typically costs $6 to $7 per pound.

👑Winner: If you’re after luxury, Wagyu wins by a mile. If you’re after a value meal, your winner is Angus.

How available is Wagyu beef?

An image of wagyu black angus cows
Wagyu cows like ours are bred through surrogate Black Angus mothers

Wagyu beef is difficult to get your hands on. Even through us. Producing quality Wagyu is a difficult and time-consuming process. Couple with high-demand, Wagyu’s supply is almost always limited.

From birth, we raise our Wagyu cows until they are at least 30 months old. This gets you some of the best marbling and tasting beef your money can buy

Make sure you sign up for our newsletter and email list to never miss when we have a Wagyu cow available.

Which type of beef should you buy? Wagyu or Angus?

We will make this the easiest choice you ever make.

Wagyu.

If you’ve never had Wagyu, it’s our clear choice. It’s one of the most unique meats and tastes in the world. And we take great pride in breeding only the best cows to deliver a perfect bite every time. 

  • For a special occasion: Wagyu is your go-to for an unforgettable, indulgent meal.
  • But for everyday grilling: Angus offers a delicious, high-quality and easily accessible steak.

For Cooking Wagyu: Keep it simple. The rich flavor doesn’t need much seasoning. A pinch of salt and a quick sear will do the trick.

Whether you go for Wagyu’s luxurious taste or Angus’s classic beefiness, you can’t go wrong. Just remember, no one ever said no to a good steak dinner!

About Bella Cattle

Founded in 2021 in Hartsville, Tennessee, Bella Cattle is a family-run operation specializing in premium Wagyu beef. Our commitment to sustainable farming and quality ensures that every product reflects our passion and care. Experience the difference the Bella Cattle difference and reserve your Wagyu Beef today.