Carabao mangoes are around 12.5 cm (4.9 in) in length and 8.5 cm (3.3 in) in diameter. These fruits are kidney-shaped and can range from being short to elongated. When ripe, the fruit is bright yellow tinged with green. The flesh is a rich yellow in color with a tender melting consistency and very aromatic. Like other Philippine-type mangoes, it is polyembryonic (in contrast to Indian-type mangoes). Fruiting season is usually from late May to early July.

There are 14 different strains of Carabao mango. These strains include the Talaban and Fresco of Guimaras, MMSU Gold of the Ilocos Region and Lamao and Sweet Elena of Zambales. A comparative study conducted by Bureau of Agricultural Research of the Department of Agriculture in 2003 found that the Sweet Elena of Zambales is the sweetest Carabao mango strain.

The Mexican Ataulfo and Manilita mango cultivars descended from the Philippine mango through the Manila galleon trade between 1600-1800. Both of these cultivars are sometimes referred to as “Manila mangoes” in trade