Difference Between Latte And Flat White

Bottom line, the main difference between a flat white and a latte comes down to their espresso-to-milk ratio, texture, and overall strength. A flat white uses less steamed milk—often just microfoam—providing a stronger espresso flavour in a smaller cup, while a latte is larger, milkier, and gentler, topped with a creamy microfoam layer. What is the difference between flat white and latte, you ask? It’s all there in the balance.

If you’re after a bold coffee experience, go for a flat white; if you prefer your coffee smooth and mild, a latte is the way to go. Both are espresso-based, but each offers a distinct coffee journey depending on your mood and taste.

Before we dig into the subtle differences—and the occasional debates—between flat white and latte, let’s clear up what each drink really is. Both start with that rich, aromatic espresso foundation, but their milk ratios, textures, and backgrounds set them apart, creating the distinct cafe latte vs flat white experience we’ve come to know and love.

Ready to become a true coffee aficionado? Let’s break it down.

When you order a latte at your local café, you’re asking for a classic espresso drink that’s all about milk harmony. The word “latte” actually means “milk” in Italian, and that’s exactly what makes it stand out: a generous serving of steamed milk poured over one or more shots of espresso, topped with a delicate layer of microfoam. The result is a smooth, creamy, and approachable drink—milder and milkier than a straight espresso—with just a whisper of foam on top.

Most lattes come in larger cups (typically 8–12 ounces or more), letting the silky milk soften the espresso flavour and making them a comforting favourite for those who like their coffee on the gentler side. Flavour syrups, stunning latte art, and even plant-based milks are common add-ons, making the latte one of the most versatile and beloved coffee drinks around.

Now, let’s shine a spotlight on the flat white. This espresso drink is celebrated for its velvety texture and strong coffee presence—qualities that have made it a hit in coffee shops from Australia and New Zealand to all corners of the globe. If you’re exploring coffee types in Australia, the flat white is an absolute must-try for its bold yet balanced profile.

Unlike the latte, a flat white packs a punch with a higher espresso-to-milk ratio, often featuring a double shot as standard. The milk here isn’t just steamed; it’s carefully textured to create a “microfoam” — silkier and denser than the microfoam on a latte, with virtually no thick foam on top. The result?

A smaller, bolder drink with a creamy, seamless mouthfeel and a more pronounced espresso flavour that stands up to—but never overwhelms—the milk. For those who crave a stronger coffee experience without giving up the comfort of milk, the flat white is your go-to.

To clearly understand how a flat white and a latte differ, it’s helpful to look at their characteristics side by side. Below is a comparison table highlighting their main distinctions, including size, espresso strength, milk texture, and foam presence.

The flat white is a hit with those who enjoy a strong coffee flavour with a smooth, velvety texture, while the latte appeals to those wanting a milkier, creamier coffee with a softer espresso presence. The difference in milk texture and ratio is key: the flat white’s delicate microfoam lets the espresso shine without being overwhelmed by milk, unlike the latte’s more generous milk volume and foam layer. The diff between flat white and latte may seem subtle, but these characteristics make all the difference.

At L’Anse French Café, you can savour the distinct milk textures that define these espresso drinks. The flat white features a silky, delicate microfoam that creates a smooth, velvety mouthfeel with minimal foam. Meanwhile, the latte offers a creamier texture with a thicker layer of steamed milk foam on top, giving it a light and frothy finish.

Whether you prefer the flat white’s fine milk microfoam or the latte’s more substantial milk volume, L’Anse French Café masters both styles with care and precision.

Another key difference enjoyed here is the coffee-to-milk balance. The flat white uses a stronger espresso-to-milk ratio, often double the espresso shots compared to a latte’s single shot, providing a more intense coffee flavour. Lattes, in contrast, have a higher proportion of steamed milk, resulting in a gentler flavour that highlights the milk’s creaminess without overpowering the coffee. Want to know how to make a magic coffee? It’s all about finding that perfect espresso-to-milk harmony, much like what these two classics offer in their unique ways.

This balance allows you to customise your experience based on whether you want a bold, robust coffee or a smooth, mellow drink.

Beyond taste and texture, presentation is a signature feature at L’Anse French Café. Both flat whites and lattes are often finished with beautiful latte art, adding an artistic touch to your coffee ritual. Whether it’s the flat white’s smooth canvas or the latte’s frothy top, skilled baristas craft every cup to not only taste great but also look inviting.

This attention to detail enhances the café experience, making each drink feel special and carefully prepared.

When it comes to taste, the flat white offers a more intense and robust espresso flavour thanks to its higher coffee-to-milk ratio. This means you get a stronger roast presence and a bolder caffeine kick, ideal for those who appreciate a pronounced coffee taste without too much dilution. By contrast, the latte delivers a softer, milk-forward sweetness with a milder espresso flavour, making it more approachable if you prefer creamy, mellow coffee drinks or like to add flavoured syrups that complement the milkiness.

Texture-wise, the flat white is characterised by its velvety, smooth microfoam that defines a silky mouthfeel with very little foam on top, creating a seamless blend of espresso and milk. This makes the flat white feel rich yet light on the palate. The latte, on the other hand, features a creamier texture with a thicker layer of frothy microfoam, which adds a luxurious froth and a slightly airy, bubbly sensation when you sip. Choosing the best coffee beans is essential to ensure both drinks bring out their distinctive espresso and milk flavours with unparalleled richness.

This difference in texture is a key factor that shapes how these popular espresso drinks are experienced.

If you prefer a coffee drink with a stronger, more pronounced espresso flavour, the flat white is likely the better choice for you. It features a higher espresso-to-milk ratio and less steamed milk, allowing the robust roast and rich coffee notes to shine through without being overwhelmed. On the other hand, if you enjoy a milder, creamier taste where the milk softens the espresso flavour, a latte offers that smooth, mellow experience.

Both drinks use the same espresso roast, so caffeine content is similar, but the balance of milk makes a significant difference in perceived strength.

Consider how you want to enjoy your coffee beyond just flavour strength. If you appreciate a silky, velvety texture with minimal foam and a smaller serving that delivers a quick, intense coffee hit, the flat white fits the bill perfectly.

Conversely, if you’re looking for a longer, leisurely drink with a creamy texture, a noticeable foam layer, and a larger cup to sip over time, the latte is ideal. Your mood and drinking style will guide this choice, as both drinks cater to different caffeine rituals and texture preferences.

To remember, the flat white offers a stronger espresso flavour with less milk and a silky microfoam, making it perfect for those who enjoy bold, concentrated coffee. The latte, with its creamier texture, larger milk volume, and frothy top, is ideal if you prefer a softer, milk-forward taste. Both drinks highlight espresso and steamed milk but cater to different preferences in strength, texture, and size. So, what’s the difference between flat white and latte? In essence, it’s all about the balance of milk, espresso, and texture.

Now that you get the key differences between a flat white and a latte, next time you visit your local café, confidently choose the drink that best suits your mood and taste buds! The latte vs flat white debate may not have a clear winner, but your choice will depend on the experience you crave.