Use our simple tool below to get an easy comparison between any two different types of coffee. We’ve also included more detailed comparisons below to address some of the more common questions.

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Cappuccino vs. Latte

Originating in Italy, both the Cappuccino and Latte have become coffee shop staples around the world.

The Cappuccino boasts a balance between espresso, steamed milk, and froth, leading to a medium-bodied drink with a velvety texture. Its strong coffee flavor contrasts with the Latte’s milder, creamy taste, which results from a higher ratio of steamed milk to espresso.

Lattes often come in larger sizes, and the minimal froth on top makes them smoother than the frothy cappuccinos. Both drinks offer variations, with baristas crafting intricate latte art or adding flavor syrups for an extra kick.

Whether you prefer the strength of a cappuccino or the creaminess of a latte, each has its unique charm to satisfy different coffee cravings.

CriteriaCappuccinoLatte
OriginItalyItaly
Base CoffeeEspressoEspresso
Flavor ProfileStrong coffee with textured milkMild coffee with creamy milk
AcidityDepends on the espressoDepends on the espresso
BodyMedium (due to froth)Creamy (due to steamed milk)
Milk Ratio1:1:1 (espresso, steamed milk, froth)1:3 (espresso to steamed milk), with a small amount of froth on top
Caffeine ContentDepends on the espressoDepends on the espresso
Cup SizeTypically 5-6 oz (150-180 ml)Typically 10-20 oz (300-590 ml)
TextureFrothy and velvetySmooth and creamy
Price Range$$ (varies by location)$$ (varies by location)
Latte vs Cappuccino comparison table

Macchiato vs. Latte

While both the Macchiato and the Latte hail from Italy and utilize espresso as their base, their preparation and resultant flavors are distinctly different. “Macchiato” in Italian means “stained” or “spotted,” which accurately describes the beverage: an espresso that’s “stained” with just a dollop of frothy milk. This method retains the robust flavor of the espresso, making it a drink for those who prefer a stronger coffee hit with just a hint of creaminess.

On the other hand, the Latte, as previously described, is a milder, milk-forward drink. It boasts a creamy texture and a coffee flavor that is noticeable but not overwhelming, courtesy of the high ratio of steamed milk to espresso. The latte is often chosen by those who appreciate a gentler, creamier coffee experience. When selecting between the two, it comes down to a matter of personal preference: the robust intensity of a macchiato or the smooth mellowness of a latte.

CriteriaMacchiatoLatte
OriginItalyItaly
Base CoffeeEspressoEspresso
Flavor ProfileStrong coffee with a dash of milkMild coffee with creamy milk
AcidityDepends on the espressoDepends on the espresso
BodyMedium to lightCreamy (due to steamed milk)
Milk RatioEspresso with a spot of milk or foam1:3 (espresso to steamed milk), with a small amount of froth on top
Caffeine ContentDepends on the espressoDepends on the espresso
Cup SizeTypically 1-2 oz (30-60 ml)Typically 10-20 oz (300-590 ml)
TextureStrong with minimal milkSmooth and creamy
Price Range$ (varies by location)$$ (varies by location)
Latte vs Macchiato comparison table

Flat White vs. Latte

The Flat White, often claimed by both Australians and New Zealanders as their own, is a coffee drink that offers a different take on the espresso-and-milk combo. What sets the Flat White apart is its velvety texture, achieved by steaming milk to produce a fine microfoam that’s consistently mixed throughout the drink. This results in a stronger coffee flavor than a latte, despite its similar appearance.

The Latte, with its Italian roots, is characterized by a larger proportion of steamed milk, which gives it a creamier texture and a milder coffee flavor. Its top layer of foam is also usually thicker than the fine microfoam of a flat white.

When choosing between the two, the Flat White is ideal for those seeking a more concentrated coffee taste with a velvety texture, while the Latte is perfect for those in the mood for a creamier, milder coffee drink. The distinction, though subtle, can significantly influence one’s coffee experience.

CriteriaFlat WhiteLatte
OriginAustralia/New ZealandItaly
Base CoffeeEspressoEspresso
Flavor ProfileRich coffee with velvety milkMild coffee with creamy milk
AcidityDepends on the espressoDepends on the espresso
BodyVelvetyCreamy (due to steamed milk)
Milk Ratio1:2 (espresso to microfoam)1:3 (espresso to steamed milk), with a small amount of froth on top
Caffeine ContentDepends on the espressoDepends on the espresso
Cup SizeTypically 5-6 oz (150-180 ml)Typically 10-20 oz (300-590 ml)
TextureSmooth with fine microfoamSmooth and creamy
Price Range$$ (varies by location)$$ (varies by location)
Latte vs Flat White comparison table

Mocha vs. Latte

The luxurious Mocha is a treat for both coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts. The Mocha differentiates itself from the latte primarily through the addition of chocolate syrup or cocoa powder, combined seamlessly with the espresso before adding milk.

This inclusion imparts a rich and sweet profile to the drink, making it reminiscent of hot cocoa with a caffeine kick. In contrast, the Latte focuses solely on the harmonious blend of espresso and milk, offering a purer coffee experience without the chocolatey influence.

When you opt for a Mocha, you’re essentially craving that delightful merge of coffee and chocolate. The Latte, on the other hand, keeps things simpler, allowing the natural flavors of the coffee to shine through. It’s a choice between indulgence and tradition, between a dessert-like drink and a classic coffee preparation.


CriteriaMochaLatte
OriginYemen (historically), with modern variations inspired by ItalyItaly
Base CoffeeEspressoEspresso
Flavor ProfileCoffee with a rich chocolate undertoneMild coffee with creamy milk
AcidityDepends on the espresso and chocolate usedDepends on the espresso
BodyCreamy with chocolate richnessCreamy (due to steamed milk)
Milk Ratio1:1:1 (espresso, chocolate, steamed milk), with whipped cream on top often1:3 (espresso to steamed milk), with a small amount of froth on top
Caffeine ContentDepends on the espressoDepends on the espresso
Cup SizeTypically 6-8 oz (180-240 ml)Typically 10-20 oz (300-590 ml)
TextureSmooth, chocolatey, often topped with whipped creamSmooth and creamy
Price Range$$$ (due to added ingredients)$$ (varies by location)
Latte vs Mocha comparison table

Cortado vs Latte

The Cortado, with its roots in Spain, is a delightful drink that offers a balanced blend of coffee and milk without veering too much in either direction. The word “Cortado” originates from the Spanish verb “cortar,” which means “to cut.” The essence of this drink is to “cut” the espresso with a small amount of steamed milk, reducing its acidity and creating a more harmonized flavor profile. The Cortado showcases the strength and profile of the espresso more prominently, with just enough milk to soften its edges without overpowering it.

In comparison, the Latte leans heavily towards the milkier side of the spectrum, providing a creamier mouthfeel and more subdued coffee flavor. While the Cortado is typically served in smaller glasses, emphasizing its no-nonsense approach to coffee enjoyment, the Latte’s larger size showcases its focus on the richness and comfort of steamed milk.

Choosing between the two might come down to how you’re feeling on a particular day. If you desire a straightforward, balanced coffee drink where the espresso’s taste is at the forefront but softened slightly, the Cortado is your pick. However, if you’re in the mood for something creamier, with a more subdued coffee note, then the comforting embrace of a Latte awaits.


CriteriaCortadoLatte
OriginSpainItaly
Base CoffeeEspressoEspresso
Flavor ProfileBalanced coffee with a touch of milkMild coffee with creamy milk
AciditySoftened by the milkDepends on the espresso
BodyMedium, with a hint of milkinessCreamy (due to steamed milk)
Milk Ratio1:1 (espresso to steamed milk)1:3 (espresso to steamed milk), with a small amount of froth on top
Caffeine ContentDepends on the espressoDepends on the espresso
Cup SizeTypically 3-4 oz (90-120 ml)Typically 10-20 oz (300-590 ml)
TextureSmooth and harmoniousSmooth and creamy
Price Range$$ (varies by location)$$ (varies by location)
Latte vs Cortado comparison table
Written By Roger Stanley

Behind AFullMug is Roger Stanley, a coffee enthusiast whose journey into the world of coffee began behind the counter of a local coffee shop – several years later and here we are!

We want to remind our readers that the articles or content found on afullmug.com do not constitute nor replace professional health or dietary advice. The information provided on our website is purely educational and informational, and should not be used as a substitute for advice from a licensed dietician, medical practitioner, or nutritionist.