Flat White vs Latte: What’s the Real Difference?

Flat whites and lattes are often confused, and it's no wonder. Both are espresso-based, both come with steamed milk, and both are available in just about every café from Melbourne to Manchester. But they’re not the same, and if you've ever had one when you were expecting the other, you’ll know the difference matters.

Size and Strength

The biggest distinction? The ratio of coffee to milk. A flat white is typically served in a smaller cup, around 160–180ml, and uses a double espresso shot topped with just enough steamed milk to soften the edge. This means you taste more coffee and get a stronger, bolder flavour.

A latte, on the other hand, is larger, usually 240–300ml, and milkier. The espresso gets diluted with more steamed milk, making it smoother but less punchy.

Foam Finish

Both drinks use microfoam, but the finish is slightly different. A flat white has a thinner layer of foam, more integrated into the milk. It’s silky and smooth, not fluffy. A latte has a thicker foam cap, which can support some light latte art and adds a little cushion to the sip.

If you're handed something with thick froth and bubbles, you've been given a cappuccino, not a latte or a flat white.

Which One’s For You?

If you like your coffee strong, rich, and espresso-forward, the flat white is the better bet. It’s small, intense, and keeps the coffee flavour front and centre.

If you prefer something smoother and creamier to sip on slowly, the latte wins. It’s the gentler option, especially if you’re adding syrups or non-dairy milk.

Learn More

Want to know what really makes a flat white tick? Or why the latte has become such a café staple? Click through to read the full breakdowns.