Instant coffee crystals are similar to the powder in that they are dissolvable, but are in a different form. The crystals or granules are small crystalized chunks of the dehydrated brewed coffee. This is usually a result of a freeze drying process. Although it is a longer and more expensive process compared to spray drying, it doesn't use invasive high heat to dry the coffee. The concentrated coffee is frozen and then put into a vacuum and slowly dried. This process of freeze drying preserves coffee's natural flavors and aroma, which results in a better tasting coffee.