Understanding the Proportions
The main difference between a flat white and a latte is the amount of milk used.
A Flat White is typically served in a 5oz to 6oz (150–180ml) cup. It uses two shots of espresso, meaning the coffee makes up a significant portion of the drink. The milk is steamed into microfoam (very fine milk foam with tiny bubbles), creating a smooth, integrated texture.
A Latte is a larger drink, usually starting at 8oz (240ml) and often going up to 12oz or more. Because it uses a much larger volume of milk for the same amount of espresso, the coffee flavor is softened. Lattes also typically have a slightly thicker layer of foam on top compared to the very thin layer found on a flat white.
Good to Know: The Ristretto Shot
In many specialty cafés, a flat white is made with ristretto (ree-STRET-oh) shots instead of standard espresso. A ristretto is a shorter espresso extraction made with less water. This creates a more concentrated shot that highlights different flavor notes of the coffee bean.
Texture and Feel
Texture is a defining characteristic of these two drinks.
In a Flat White, the microfoam is thin and fully integrated into the drink. This creates a smooth, uniform texture from the first sip to the last.
A Latte feels lighter because it contains more milk and a more noticeable layer of foam on top.
Which to Order
If you have been ordering lattes but find them a bit too mild, the Flat White is a common next option. It provides a similar milk texture with a higher concentration of coffee.
If you want a warm drink that is easy to sip and milder on the palate, the Latte remains one of the most common espresso drinks.