THE SHORT ANSWER
Espresso is coffee brewed by pushing hot water through a compact bed of finely ground coffee under pressure. Filter coffee uses a different route through the grounds and usually produces a larger, less concentrated drink.
A method, not a species
There is no espresso plant. An espresso blend is a roaster’s suggestion for a particular flavour and brewing style; single-origin coffee can also make espresso. The same bag can travel from a dripper to an espresso machine, provided you change the grind and recipe.
Concentration is not total caffeine
A shot feels intense because its flavours occupy a small volume. A large filter coffee may contain more total caffeine than a small espresso serving. Compare actual serving sizes and shot counts before declaring a winner.
Choose by the moment
For a slow breakfast and a mug you can hold in two hands, try filter coffee. For a small, concentrated drink or the base of a latte, try espresso. Neither method is a quality certificate: clean equipment, a suitable grind and a recipe you enjoy matter more than the name on the machine.
Change one thing, taste, and keep a short note. A recipe becomes useful when you can repeat the cup you enjoy.
Try it for yourself
Sources & further reading
Source links support the factual context. Our home recipes and tasting suggestions are identified as starting points.