If you love coffee, you’ve probably heard of both the flat white and the latte.
They sound similar, but once you dive into the details, you’ll realize they offer very different experiences in your cup.
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between flat white and latte, so you can choose the perfect drink based on your taste and brewing goals.
What Is a Flat White?
A flat white originated in Australia or New Zealand (depending on who you ask) during the 1980s.
It features a double shot of espresso topped with steamed milk that’s been carefully textured into a fine microfoam.
Key characteristics:
- Size: Typically 5–6 ounces
- Milk Texture: Smooth, velvety microfoam
- Flavor: Strong espresso flavor with just a thin layer of silky milk
- Milk to Coffee Ratio: Lower than a latte
Flat whites are known for emphasizing the flavor of the espresso while adding just enough milk to soften the sharpness without overpowering it.
What Is a Latte?
A latte—short for “caffè latte” in Italian—means “milk coffee.”
It has become one of the most popular espresso-based drinks worldwide.
Key characteristics:
- Size: Typically 8–12 ounces
- Milk Texture: Light and creamy, with a thicker layer of foam compared to a flat white
- Flavor: Milder coffee taste due to the higher milk content
- Milk to Coffee Ratio: Higher than a flat white
A latte offers a much milkier, creamier experience compared to a flat white, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer coffee profile.
Main Differences Between Flat White and Latte
| Feature | Flat White | Latte |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 5–6 oz | 8–12 oz |
| Milk Texture | Thin, velvety microfoam | Creamy, with a thicker foam layer |
| Espresso Flavor | Strong and dominant | Milder and creamier |
| Milk-to-Coffee Ratio | Lower | Higher |
| Presentation | Smaller cup, denser texture | Larger cup, more volume |
Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose a flat white if you enjoy a strong espresso flavor but still want a silky, smooth texture.
- Choose a latte if you prefer a milk-forward drink with a mellow coffee taste.
If you’re working on your home barista skills, mastering both drinks is a great way to practice milk steaming and pouring techniques.
(İç linkleme için öneri: Eğer bir yazın varsa How to Steam Milk at Home Without an Espresso Machine yazına “practice milk steaming” ifadesine link verebilirsin.)
How to Make a Flat White or Latte at Home
For a Flat White:
- Pull a double espresso shot.
- Steam milk to around 150°F (65°C), creating fine microfoam.
- Pour the milk gently over the espresso, allowing a thin layer of foam on top.
For a Latte:
- Pull a single or double espresso shot.
- Steam a larger amount of milk, with a bit more foam.
- Pour into a larger cup, layering milk and foam over the coffee.
Final Thoughts
Flat white vs latte — now you know the difference!
Both are delicious in their own right.
Experiment with making each at home, and you might discover a new favorite way to start your day.
Whether you crave the boldness of espresso or the comfort of steamed milk, mastering these two drinks will definitely level up your home coffee game.
