Updated September 2026. A latte and a cappuccino both start with espresso and milk, but they are not the same drink. The biggest difference is the amount and texture of the milk: a latte is more milk-forward and silky, while a cappuccino has less liquid milk and a more noticeable layer of foam.
If you are deciding what to order, this guide breaks down the difference between a latte and a cappuccino, plus where a cortado fits in.
Latte vs. Cappuccino: The Main Difference
Both drinks combine espresso with steamed milk. A latte uses more steamed milk and typically has a thin layer of microfoam, giving it a smooth, creamy texture and a milder espresso flavor. A cappuccino uses less liquid milk and more aerated foam, so the espresso tends to come through more clearly.
Traditional ratios vary by café and drink size, so it is more useful to think about texture and intensity than an exact formula: latte = milkier and smoother; cappuccino = foamier and more espresso-forward.
What Is a Cappuccino?
A cappuccino is an espresso-based drink made with espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. It is usually smaller and more concentrated than a latte. The thicker foam gives the drink a lighter, airier texture while keeping the coffee flavor prominent.
You may also hear people order a cappuccino “dry” or “wet.” A drier cappuccino has more foam and less steamed milk; a wetter cappuccino has more steamed milk and less foam.
What Is a Latte?
A latte combines espresso with a larger amount of steamed milk and a light layer of microfoam. Because there is more milk, the drink tastes softer and creamier than a cappuccino and works especially well with flavored syrups.
Lattes can be served hot or iced and can be made with dairy or non-dairy milk. If you want an espresso drink that is easy to sip and less intense than a cappuccino, a latte is usually the better place to start.
Where Does a Cortado Fit?
A cortado is another espresso-and-milk drink, but it is smaller and more concentrated than either a latte or a cappuccino. It is generally made with roughly equal parts espresso and steamed milk, with very little foam. That balance softens the espresso without covering up much of its flavor.
If a latte feels too milky but straight espresso feels too intense, a cortado is a useful middle ground.
Which One Should You Order?
- Choose a latte if you want a creamy, milk-forward drink or plan to add a flavor.
- Choose a cappuccino if you want more foam and a stronger espresso presence.
- Choose a cortado if you want a small, balanced drink with plenty of espresso character.
Try a Latte or Cappuccino at Command Coffee
Command Coffee serves lattes, cappuccinos, cortados, and other espresso drinks at both Indianapolis cafés. See the current menu, visit our Fall Creek coffee shop and drive-through, or stop by our Monument Circle coffee shop.
Brewing at home? Our coffee lineup rotates throughout the year. Shop our current freshly roasted coffees and subscriptions rather than relying on older coffee recommendations.