Americano vs Long Black: Same Ingredients, Different Result

The Americano and the long black both contain the same two ingredients, espresso and hot water, but the order you combine them makes a noticeable difference in flavour, texture, and even appearance. If you like your coffee black and bold, this is a comparison worth knowing.

Americano: Water First, Then Espresso

An Americano is made by adding hot water to a shot of espresso. It usually ends up around 150 to 240ml, depending on how much water is added. This method softens the espresso, stretches the drink, and produces a smoother cup. However, pouring water in last often breaks up the crema, the thin golden layer that sits on top of fresh espresso.

More info: What is an Americano?

Long Black: Espresso on Top

A long black flips the order. You start with hot water in the cup, then pour the espresso over it. This keeps the crema intact and gives the drink a slightly stronger aroma and fuller body. It’s especially popular in Australia and New Zealand, where baristas treat it with a bit more care.

Because you’re not diluting the crema, the coffee flavour tends to be more pronounced than in an Americano, even if the total volume is similar.

More here: What is a Long Black?

Which One’s Better?

It depends on what you want. An Americano is lighter, smoother, and more forgiving, a bit closer to brewed filter coffee. A long black is richer and more intense, with a stronger aroma and more crema. If you’re serious about flavour and texture, the long black has the edge.

These two black coffees aren’t the only ones worth knowing. See how they compare with 8 other popular brews:
See all 10 drinks compared