Dungeness Crab vs. Snow Crab: In the Wild and on Your Plate

Dungeness crab lives in the Pacific Ocean, usually near the west coast of North America, from California to Alaska. Snow crab lives in much colder temperatures, hanging out in the northern seas of the Atlantic and Pacific, especially around Canada and the Bering Sea.

These cold temperatures are key differences in their biology and taste.

Snow crab grows in deeper depths compared to Dungeness crabs. Because snow crabs molt to grow, they shed their shells in a process that helps them gain size. Snow crabs molt regularly in early life stages but less often in their adulthood.

Dungeness crabs molt frequently, which allows them to regenerate limbs and grow rapidly. Dungeness crabs tend to be more active in warmer waters, while snow crabs lies dormant in colder habitats.

Interestingly, snow crabs outlive Dungeness crabs. That fairly significant lifespan difference — 14 to 16 years for snow crabs versus about eight to 13 for Dungeness — means Dungeness crabs tend to mature faster and reproduce sooner. Snow crabs gain size more slowly but live longer lives.

Dungeness crabs have a wide, oval body with a shell that’s typically a rusty orange or purplish-brown. They have smaller and curved legs that contrast with the snow crab's elongated limbs. Dungeness crabs tend to grow bulkier bodies, often seen as a single crab meal choice with more body meat.

Snow crabs have long, orange or reddish-brown legs legs with a thinner, lighter shell. Their legs tend to be the main attraction, and they’re a standout for those who like cracking open crab legs.

The main takeaway here is that snow crabs have a larger leg-to-body ratio than Dungeness crabs. These leg differences make eating snow crab more straightforward for those who prefer leg meat.

Dungeness crab meat has a slightly sweet and more delicate flavor. It's often described as succulent meat and is ideal for dishes like crab cakes or simple preparations with melted butter. Eating Dungeness crab is a treat for those who love a milder, sweet flavor profile. The body meat is abundant and flaky.

Snow crab meat, on the other hand, is firmer and known for its mild flavor. It's excellent for seafood platters, and its white meat is easier to extract from the legs. Leg meat, especially from snow crab legs, is a highlight for many diners.

Which Is Better, Snow Crab or Dungeness Crab?

Comparing Dungeness crab and snow crab is like comparing a rich chocolate mousse to a fruit tart — both tasty choices, just different.

Snow crab legs deliver more consistent, easy-to-access meat, while Dungeness crab offers a balanced mix of body and leg meat. Not the body meat fans? Snow crab might suit you better.

Snow crabs and Dungeness crabs have comparable weights, but snow crabs feature longer legs. Their meatier legs mean more meat per leg, while Dungeness crabs remain a top choice for body meat lovers. Dungeness crab grows larger in width, while snow crab grows longer in leg span.

Which Crab Has More Meat?

Crab meat yield varies: A Dungeness single crab can offer more meat in the shell, while snow crabs provide leg meat that's not the body meat but still satisfying. Both provide a good and tasty crab experience.

More meat doesn't always mean better—it depends on what kind of eating experience you prefer.

Eating snow crab usually means cleanly pulling out long strings of meat from the legs, while eating Dungeness crab often requires more effort cracking through the shell but rewards with rich, tender meat.

No crustacean conversation is complete without mentioning the mighty king crab. The Alaskan king crab and red king crab are kings for a reason: King crab legs are massive and packed with rich, sweet meat. They live in much colder temperatures and deeper waters — 100 fathoms (600 feet) and beyond.

Though pricier, king crab is a favorite for those seeking more meat and impressive presentation. King crab meat is known for its rich, tender texture, often compared to lobster, and is generally firmer than snow crab or Dungeness crab meat.

It’s also richer in taste, making it a premium choice among seafood lovers.

The blue crab is smaller and commonly served whole, especially in dishes like steamed crabs or crab boils. Common in crab cakes and East Coast cuisine, blue crab isn’t as meaty but offers a strong seafood flavor. These small crabs are popular for picking, not for those seeking meatier legs.

Crab season varies by species and location. Dungeness crab season typically runs from November through June on the West Coast, varying by region. Snow crab season varies by location but generally peaks in late winter to early spring.

Dungeness crab meat shines in crab cakes, soups and salads. It pairs well with melted butter and herbs. Eating Dungeness crab is a hands-on experience involving body cracking and picking. Snow crab is easier for quick meals and platters; simply steam and serve.

If you want a meal with more delicate flavor, Dungeness is your pick. Prefer slightly sweet, firmer meat with easier access? Then snow crab is your go-to. And for those seeking indulgence, king crab offers more meat and dramatic presentation.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.