Before we get into the tips and toes, let's start with the basics. Both cappuccino and latte are espresso-based drinks and are mixed with milk. Simple enough, right? But the way the milk is used and how much of it - makes all the difference.

This is a classic Italian drink, traditionally served in the morning. It’s made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam. That thick layer of frothy foam on top is the signature of a cappuccino.

in Italian "Latte" literally means "milk", and this drink lives up to its name. A latte has way more milk than a cappuccino, but only a small layer of foam. It’s smooth, creamy, and great for relaxed sipping.

Now that you know what they are, let’s get into the key differences.

While both drinks use the same main ingredients - espresso and milk, it’s all about how they’re put together that separates drinks completely.

This is a big one. The amount of milk you pour into expresso is the biggest difference in cappuccino and latte preparation.

It’s all about balance. You get one-third espresso, one-third steamed milk, and one-third foam. Because of the foam, the drink feels way lighter and has a more intense coffee flavor.

On the other hand, latte is mostly milk. It’s usually about one-third espresso and two-thirds steamed milk, with just a little foam on top. The extra milk makes the latte much creamier and smoother, which also softens the espresso’s strength a bit.

The flavor of your coffee depends a lot on how much milk you decide to add.

If you love the bold taste of coffee but still want a fancy layer of foam on top of it, a cappuccino is for you. It’s more focused on a more underlined espresso flavor, but the foam adds a nice texture that softens the intensity just enough to make your cappuccino more relaxing.

If you’re more into mild coffee flavors or you just love that creamy drink, you’re probably a latte fan. The extra milk gives it a smooth, mellow, milky taste, and the espresso plays more of a secondary role.

Cappuccino and latte also differ in size and mouthfeel.

Cappuccinos are usually served in smaller cups (about 6 oz), making it a quick coffee experience. Thanks to that layer of foam, every sip feels a bit more textured.

Lattes come in larger cups, typically from 12 to 16 oz. The texture is all about smoothness - steamed milk blends right into the espresso, so it’s creamy from start to finish. It’s more of a drink to sip slowly for longer relaxation.

The way these drinks are prepared also plays a major role in how they taste. If you are a fan of both, your choice might depend on the quality of the coffee shop you are at.

Making a cappuccino requires a little more barista skills. The milk needs to be frothed to perfection – not too much, not too little. It’s what creates that signature foam layer, and it’s poured carefully over the espresso to get the balance just right.

Lattes are a bit easier to make. Steaming the milk to a creamy, smooth texture doesn’t require as much precision, and the milk is blended right into the espresso, so it’s quick and easy.

When it comes to prepping a cappuccino or latte, the level of skill required often depends on the specific variation being made. For instance, variations like flavored lattes or ones with sophisticated latte art take even more time and precision. Baristas must balance temperature, texture, and design to create a visually stunning and flavorful drink.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, you might be wondering which is better for you. The truth is that it depends on your taste and the style you like to drink it. Let’s discuss some questions that may help you to decide.

If you’re the kind of person who likes bold coffee flavors and enjoys the unique texture of milk foam, a cappuccino might be your best bet.

Do you like the taste of espresso to shine through? Cappuccinos have a more concentrated coffee flavor because there’s less milk to water it down.

Cappuccinos are served in smaller sizes, which means they’re perfect for a quick coffee break. You get that caffeine hit without having to sip on a huge cup.

If you love that frothy, airy texture on top of your coffee, it’s cappuccino’s target. The foam adds a lightness that makes each sip feel a little more luxurious.

Cappuccinos are traditionally enjoyed in the morning. If you’re someone who likes to start their day with a strong but balanced coffee, a cappuccino is a great choice to pair with your breakfast.

If you prefer a smoother, creamier coffee experience or you like to sip your coffee slowly, a latte might be a better fit for you.

Lattes are perfect if you’re not a fan of strong coffee flavors. The extra milk waters the intensity of the espresso down, making it a much milder, more approachable drink.

Because lattes are served in larger sizes, they’re great for leisure sipping. Whether you’re sitting in a café or working from home, a latte is a drink you can sip longer.

If you’re a fan of smooth, creamy coffee, the latte’s steamed milk gives it that rich, velvety texture. Every sip feels comforting, like a warm coffee hug.

Lattes are also super versatile. If you’re someone who likes to add syrups like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut, a latte is a great base for experimenting with different flavors. The milk helps balance out any added sweetness without losing the coffee vibe.

So, which is better: Honestly, there’s no right answer – both espresso drinks can do their job. It really comes down to what kind of coffee experience you’re looking after.