King Crab vs Snow Crab vs Dungeness: Which to Order

Quick answer: King crab is the largest and richest, with big meaty legs and the highest price. Snow crab is sweeter and more delicate, and the best value for a crab feast. Dungeness is a whole crab prized for tender, slightly nutty meat. Here is how they compare on taste, size, price, and cooking so you order the right one.

Standing in front of a case of crab legs, the choice comes down to three favorites. Here is how our Chesapeake family thinks about each.

King Crab: The Showstopper

King crab has the largest legs and the richest, sweetest meat. It is the most expensive crab, and it is the one to serve when you want a wow moment. A little goes a long way, so cook it simply and let the meat shine. See how to cook king crab legs.

Snow Crab: The Best Value

Snow crab clusters are sweeter and more delicate than king crab, at a friendlier price. The legs are thinner and easy to crack, which makes them perfect for a big, hands-on feast. This is our pick for feeding a crowd. See how to cook snow crab legs.

Dungeness: The Whole-Crab Favorite

Dungeness is a West Coast whole crab with tender, slightly nutty meat and a good yield across the body and legs. It rewards a little picking and is a favorite for crab lovers who enjoy the whole experience.

Which Should You Order?

• Want the most impressive plate? King crab.

• Feeding a hungry group on a budget? Snow crab clusters.

• Love picking a whole crab? Dungeness.

• Cannot decide? A mixed crab legs bundle [/collections/crab-legs] lets everyone compare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which crab legs have the most meat?

King crab legs have the highest meat yield and the largest, easiest-to-extract pieces.

What is the sweetest crab?

Snow crab and Dungeness both have a sweet, delicate flavor. King crab is richer and more buttery.

Which crab legs are the best value?

Snow crab clusters give you the most meat for the price, which makes them ideal for a feast.

Ready to pick your favorite? Shop our king crab legs, snow crab clusters, and Dungeness, shipped cooked and flash-frozen and backed by our satisfaction guarantee. Shop all crab legs.