Flat White vs. Latte – What’s the Real Difference?

It’s a classic café dilemma: staring at a menu and wondering, “What’s the difference between a flat white and a latte?”

They both combine espresso and steamed milk, yet they offer distinct experiences. If you’ve ever felt unsure about which to order, you’re not alone.

What is a Latte?

The caffè latte, as it’s known in its native Italy, has a history that dates back to the 1860s, though its modern form was popularized in America.

It was designed as a milder, creamier alternative to the intense espresso shots common in Europe.

A latte is made with a single or double shot of espresso, a significant amount of steamed milk, and a thin layer of frothed milk (foam) on top.

The result is a milky, smooth beverage where the coffee flavor is present but softened by the sweetness of the milk.

What is a Flat White?

• The flat white is a more recent invention, with its origins debated between Australia and New Zealand since the 1980s.
  
• It was created for coffee drinkers who wanted a stronger espresso flavor without sacrificing the creamy texture of steamed milk.
  
• A flat white features a double shot of espresso, often a ristretto (a shorter, more concentrated shot).
  
• The drink is topped with a thin layer of velvety microfoam.
  
  • Microfoam is steamed milk with very fine, uniform bubbles, giving the drink a smooth, “flat” surface and a creamy consistency throughout.
    
• Typically served in a smaller ceramic cup (around 6 oz).
  
• Has a much higher coffee-to-milk ratio than a latte, allowing the rich, bold espresso notes to shine through.
  

Key Differences: Flat White vs. Latte

While they share the same core ingredients, the way they are prepared creates two very different drinks. Here’s a breakdown of the main distinctions.

Espresso to Milk Ratio

The most significant difference lies in the ratio of espresso to milk.

• Latte: A standard latte has a milk-dominant ratio, often 1 part espresso to 4 or more parts milk. This dilutes the espresso, resulting in a milder coffee taste.
• Flat White: A flat white has a much more balanced ratio, typically 1 part espresso to 2 or 3 parts milk. This creates a stronger, more robust espresso flavor.

Milk Texture and Foam

The texture of the milk foam is a defining characteristic of each drink.

• Latte: A latte has a distinct layer of light, airy foam on top, usually about 1 cm thick. Below this is steamed milk, which is less integrated with the espresso.
• Flat White: A flat white uses microfoam, which is much denser and creamier. This velvety milk is fully integrated with the espresso from top to bottom, creating a uniform, smooth texture with just a very thin layer of foam on the surface.

Serving Size and Cup

The serving style also highlights their differences.

• Latte: Typically served in a large glass or mug, ranging from 8 oz to over 16 oz (240–475 ml).
• Flat White: Served in a smaller, 5-6 oz (150–180 ml) ceramic cup, which helps maintain the stronger coffee flavor and ideal temperature.

Taste and Strength

Your taste preference is the ultimate deciding factor.

• Latte: Creamy, milky, and smooth. The espresso flavor is subtle, making it an approachable and comforting drink.
• Flat White: Bold, rich, and espresso-forward. The velvety microfoam complements the coffee’s flavor without overpowering it.

Nutritional and Cost Comparison

When choosing your daily coffee, calories, caffeine, and cost are often important considerations. Here’s how the two drinks stack up.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient (per 8 oz / 240 ml serving)	Latte	Flat White
Calories	~150 kcal	~120 kcal
Protein	~9 g	~7 g
Fat	~8 g	~6 g
Carbohydrates (Sugar)	~12 g	~9 g
Caffeine	~65-130 mg (1-2 shots espresso)	~130 mg (typically 2 shots espresso)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on milk type (e.g., skim, oat, almond) and specific café preparation.

Price Comparison

Prices can vary by location and café, but generally, there isn’t a significant difference between a latte and a flat white.

Major Chains (e.g., Starbucks)

In the US, a Tall (12 oz) Latte and a Tall (12 oz) Flat White are priced similarly, ranging from $4.00 – $5.50 USD. Note that chain-style flat whites are often larger than traditional ones.

Independent Cafés

Prices for both drinks are typically in the $4.50 – $6.00 USD range. 

The flat white may sometimes be slightly less expensive due to its smaller size, but its use of a double espresso shot can also balance out the cost.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is a flat white stronger than a latte?

Yes, a flat white is stronger than a latte. It has a higher coffee-to-milk ratio and is typically made with a double shot of espresso, resulting in a more intense and robust coffee flavor.

Which has more milk, a flat white or a latte?

A latte has significantly more milk than a flat white. A latte’s large serving size is mostly composed of steamed milk, whereas a flat white is a smaller, more concentrated drink.

Which is healthier, a flat white or a latte?

A flat white is generally the healthier option because it contains less milk and, therefore, fewer calories and less sugar. 

Can you make these drinks at home?

Absolutely! To make either drink at home, you’ll need an espresso machine with a steam wand. For a latte, focus on creating a light layer of foam. 

For a flat white, the goal is to create a velvety microfoam by aerating the milk less, then pouring it to integrate fully with the espresso.

Which Coffee is Right for You?

Choosing between a flat white and a latte comes down to what you value most in a coffee experience.

Choose a latte if

• You prefer a milder, creamier coffee.
• You enjoy flavored syrups and a larger drink to sip on.
• You’re new to espresso drinks and want something smooth and approachable.

Choose a flat white if

• You love a strong, rich espresso flavor.
• You appreciate a velvety, consistent texture throughout your drink.
• You want a concentrated, high-quality coffee experience in a smaller cup.

The next time you’re at the café, you can order with confidence, knowing exactly what to expect. Better yet, try them both side-by-side to truly appreciate the artistry behind each cup.