Cappuccino vs Latte vs Espresso: The Ultimate Comparison

Picking between a cappuccino, latte, or espresso looks simple on the menu but feels confusing when you’re actually ordering. The drinks share the same base, espresso, but the ratios of milk and foam change everything. So here’s a clear, no-nonsense guide to what each drink actually is and when to choose it.

At El Bueno, our goal is to make people’s coffee knowledge easier and simpler, rather than to confuse them. Therefore, we have prepared a straightforward and nice-to-read explanation of what each drink really is, along with tips to select the one according to your mood.

What is Espresso?

Espresso is the purest form of “coffee kick”, a concentrated shot brewed by forcing hot water under pressure through finely-ground coffee. 

• Usually, it’s presented in small portions (a “shot”), overwhelming, luxurious, and vivid 
• Its strength provides a huge taste and a quick kick of caffeine
• Espresso is the core of both cappuccinos and lattes, so matted milk or silky smoothness, it all begins here

If you want to enjoy coffee flavour at its most pure, free from milk or foam, espresso is your best choice. 

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What is a Cappuccino?

Cappuccino presents a perfect union of espresso, milk, and foam. It is composed of equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam in the case of a classic cappuccino. 

What exactly makes cappuccino extraordinary:

• Balanced strength: This strength balance is achieved due to the 1:1:1 ratio; the espresso’s bold taste is very much dominating, the steamed milk is least penetrated, and the foam is lightly adding to the overall sipping experience 
• Texture & mouthfeel: The thick and airy foam gives a velvety and frothy texture at the same time. Each sip consists of layered tastes: the bitter espresso at the bottom, then warm, sweet milk, and finally, the light, sweet foam
• Cup & serving size: The cappuccino is usually served in small cups (150–180 ml) at most to maintain its equilibrium of flavours
• Taste profile: There are strong coffee notes, which are somewhat mellowed down by milk and foam. It is more dairy than a latte but less than straight espresso in terms of softness
• Classic charm: It is frequently topped with a dusting of cocoa or cinnamon, creating a warm, slightly luxurious atmosphere

If you like a drink that has the punch of espresso plus a creamy, comforting texture, cappuccino is your friend.

What is Latte?

Latte (or “caffè latte,” literally “milk coffee”) takes a different route: it’s espresso softened by a larger amount of steamed milk, topped with just a thin layer of foam.

Key points about latte:

• Milk-forward ratio: Usually about one part espresso to three parts (or more) steamed milk, with only a thin foam cap
• Serving size: Lattes usually have larger cup sizes up to 240 ml and even more in order to contain the additional milk
• Texture & taste: Soft, creamy, and silky. The espresso is there, but in a subdued way, a latte is often referred to as a “milk-softened coffee bear hug”
• Versatile base: Due to the larger milk volume and coffee taste being mild, lattes have become a popular base for flavour customisations, think vanilla, caramel, hazelnut syrups or seasonal specials
• Who should like it: If you are one of those who like the smooth, comforting and less intense things, perhaps with a flavour twist, a latte is the perfect choice for you

Cappuccino vs Latte vs Espresso: Quick Comparison

So, Which One Is Right for You?

• If you want pure, strong coffee, no fluff, no milk: go for Espresso.
• If you like balance, espresso kick, but softened by milk and topped with froth: choose Cappuccino.
• If you prefer milder, milkier, creamy coffee, maybe with flavours, a Latte is your best bet.

At El Bueno, we believe that choosing coffee is a personal choice. Sometimes, you crave bold energy (hello, espresso), sometimes you want a soft, cosy sip (latte), and sometimes you want the sweet spot between strength and softness (cappuccino).

Pro Tips for Ordering or Making at Home

• Want a stronger cappuccino? Ask for a “dry” cap, more foam, and less steamed milk. Want it milder? “Wet” cap adds more milk.
• Prefer a lighter latte? Go for skim or plant-based milk; it still gives smoothness with less heaviness.

Brewing at home? A proper espresso machine makes a difference; espresso makers bring out those rich, concentrated flavours that define all three drinks.