When shopping for beef, you’ve probably seen labels like Select, Choice, and Prime—but what do they actually mean? And where does Wagyu beef fit into the equation? The grading system in the U.S. determines the quality, marbling, and tenderness of the beef, directly impacting its flavor, juiciness, and price. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between Select, Choice, Prime, Wagyu Beef helping you understand what makes each unique and which one is worth your money.
What is Beef Grading?
Beef grading in the U.S. is overseen by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The grading system is primarily based on two factors:
- Marbling – The amount of intramuscular fat in the beef, which affects tenderness, juiciness, and flavor.
- Maturity – The age of the cattle at slaughter, as younger cattle produce more tender meat.
The three primary USDA beef grades—Select, Choice, and Prime—are assigned based on these factors, with Prime being the highest grade. Wagyu beef, however, follows a different grading system originating from Japan, which focuses heavily on marbling quality.
USDA Beef Grades: Select vs. Choice vs. Prime
1. Select Beef: The Leanest/Most Affordable Option
Less Marbling, Leaner Texture
Tends to be firmer and less juicy
Best for marinating or slow cooking
Select beef is the lowest grade of the three main USDA categories. It contains little marbling, making it leaner but also less tender. Because of the lower fat content, Select beef is best suited for slow cooking methods like braising or marinating to enhance tenderness. If cooked improperly, it can be dry and tough.
2. Choice Beef: The “Sort Of” Middle Ground
More marbling than Select, but less than Prime
Tender and flavorful
Great for grilling and roasting
Choice beef is a step up from Select and offers a good balance of flavor and tenderness. It has more intramuscular fat, making it juicier than Select but not as luxurious as Prime. Many supermarket steaks are Choice grade, making it a popular and affordable option for everyday cooking.
3. Prime Beef: The Highest USDA Grade
Highest marbling among USDA grades
Exceptionally tender, juicy, and flavorful
Best suited for high-heat cooking like grilling
Prime beef is the highest grade of beef recognized by the USDA. It contains abundant marbling, leading to superior tenderness, juiciness, and beefy flavor. Prime beef is often found in steakhouses and high-end butcher shops, making it ideal for grilling, pan-searing, and roasting. Because of its fat content, it remains tender even at high temperatures.
Wagyu Beef: A Category of Its Own
Wagyu beef, originating from Japan, is graded differently than USDA beef. Instead of Select, Choice, or Prime, Wagyu follows the Japanese Beef Marbling Score (BMS), which ranges from 1 to 12 (with 12 being the most marbled and luxurious).
Unparalleled marbling, often exceeding USDA Prime
Rich, buttery texture that melts in your mouth
Lower melting point due to higher monounsaturated fat content
Unlike American beef, Wagyu cattle are bred and raised with specialized feeding programs that enhance marbling and tenderness. The result is an incredibly rich, tender, and umami-packed beef experience.
Types of Wagyu
- Japanese A5 Wagyu – The highest possible grade, known for its intense marbling and buttery texture.
- American Wagyu – A crossbreed of Japanese Wagyu and American cattle (like Angus), offering more marbling than USDA Prime but with a beefier texture. Can also be Full Blood Wagyu (100% genetics tracable back to Japan) but raised in the US.
- Australian Wagyu – A blend of Japanese Wagyu genetics and Australian cattle, producing a balance of marbling and a slightly leaner bite.
How to Choose the Right Beef for You
For everyday cooking, go with Prime. While Choice beef is a decent option, Prime offers superior marbling, tenderness, and flavor, making it the go-to for those who truly appreciate high-quality steak. If you’re hosting a large gathering and need to feed a crowd, Choice can work—but for the best experience, Prime should be the standard whenever possible.
For a premium experience without breaking the bank, consider F1 Cross Wagyu or Full Blood Wagyu. While A5 Wagyu is a luxurious treat best saved for special occasions, F1 Cross Wagyu and Full Blood Wagyu can be surprisingly affordable, especially when using lesser-known cuts that still offer incredible marbling and depth of flavor.
For the ultimate indulgence, go with A5 Wagyu. This is a true once-in-a-while experience, perfect for celebrations where you want to savor something truly special.
By choosing better beef, you’re not just elevating your meals—you’re ensuring every bite is rich, tender, and full of flavor.
Select, Choice, Prime, Wagyu Beef
Whether you’re buying beef for a weekday dinner or a luxurious steak night, understanding the differences between Select, Choice, Prime, Wagyu Beef helps you make a more informed decision. USDA Prime is excellent for steak lovers, while Wagyu takes indulgence to another level. No matter which you choose, cooking it right is key to enjoying the best possible flavor and texture.
Next time you’re shopping for beef, you’ll know exactly what to look for—because when it comes to steak, quality makes all the difference.
