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Quick answer: A latte is larger (200-220ml), has more milk, a thinner foam layer, and a milder flavour. A cappuccino is smaller (150-180ml), has equal parts espresso, milk and thick foam, and has a stronger, more coffee-forward character. The foam thickness is the defining difference.
🔗 Also comparing to flat white? See our flat white vs latte comparison — or our complete guide to every espresso drink for all the major varieties.
Side by Side
| Feature | Latte | Cappuccino |
|---|---|---|
| Espresso base | Double (50ml) | Double (50ml) |
| Steamed milk | 150ml | 60ml |
| Foam | Thin layer (5-10ml) | Thick (50-60ml) |
| Total volume | 200-220ml | 150-180ml |
| Coffee strength | Mild | Medium |
| Texture | Smooth, silky | Airy, foamy |
| Traditional origin | Italy (caffe latte) | Italy (Capuchin friars) |
What Makes a Latte a Latte
A latte (from the Italian caffè latte — coffee with milk) is a double espresso with approximately 150ml of steamed milk topped with just a thin layer of foam. Total volume is 200-220ml. The large amount of milk makes it the mildest and most approachable espresso drink — the coffee character is present but softened significantly by the milk.
The latte’s thin foam layer distinguishes it from a cappuccino — the milk is steamed to create microfoam that integrates with the liquid rather than sitting on top as a thick separate layer. This is what allows latte art — the thin, glossy microfoam is pourable and can be shaped as it hits the espresso.
What Makes a Cappuccino a Cappuccino
A cappuccino is traditionally one third espresso, one third steamed milk, one third thick foam — approximately 50ml of each in a 150-180ml cup. The thick foam layer is what defines it. Unlike the latte’s integrated microfoam, cappuccino foam is deliberately thicker and airier, sitting as a distinct cloud on top of the drink.
This thick foam means you drink through it rather than with it — the texture changes as you go through the cup, from creamy foam to richer milk and espresso below. A properly made cappuccino should support a sprinkling of cocoa powder on the foam without it sinking through.
In Italy, a cappuccino is a breakfast drink. Ordering one after 11am is considered unusual — the heavy milk and foam is seen as too rich for after a meal.
Which Is Easier to Make at Home?
The latte is more forgiving for beginners — the thin microfoam requires less technique than cappuccino’s thick foam, and the large milk volume hides minor imperfections. The cappuccino’s thick foam requires more air introduction during steaming and more wand control to get right consistently.
Both require a steam wand. The Sage Bambino Plus at £399 has an automatic steam wand that handles temperature and texture automatically — it produces consistently good lattes and acceptable cappuccinos without the technique requirement. For full control over foam thickness, a manual wand machine like the Barista Express gives a higher ceiling once you’ve developed the skill.
Which Should You Order (or Make)?
Choose a latte if: You want something mild, smooth and easy-drinking. You’re new to espresso drinks. You want latte art. You prefer less foam.
Choose a cappuccino if: You want to taste the espresso more clearly. You like the texture contrast of thick foam. You prefer a smaller, more concentrated drink.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a latte stronger than a cappuccino?
They use the same espresso base (a double), so the caffeine content is identical. However, a cappuccino tastes stronger because it has less milk — the espresso flavour is more prominent in a smaller volume. A latte tastes milder because 150ml of milk dilutes the coffee’s intensity more significantly than a cappuccino’s 60ml.
What is a dry cappuccino?
A dry cappuccino has more foam and less steamed milk than a standard cappuccino — pushed further toward the foam end of the spectrum. A bone dry cappuccino is espresso with foam only, no liquid milk at all. A wet cappuccino has more milk and less foam — closer to a latte. These terms let you customise the foam-to-milk ratio when ordering.
Can I make a latte with a Nespresso machine?
Yes, with a separate frother. Nespresso machines don’t have built-in steam wands, but the Nespresso Aeroccino 4 froths milk automatically and produces good results for lattes. The total setup (Nespresso machine + Aeroccino) costs approximately £160-200 depending on which machine you choose.