Coffee Ratio Lab

Drinks Explained

What's actually in the drinks on a café menu.

What's the real difference between a flat white and a latte, a ristretto and a lungo, or Arabica and Robusta? These comparison guides explain each one with sizes, ratios and taste. For individual drinks from around the world, explore our Coffee Drinks section.

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All drinks explained (7)

Latte vs Cappuccino vs Flat White: Milk Ratios and Sizes Compared illustration
No. 09 · Drinks Explained

Latte vs Cappuccino vs Flat White: Milk Ratios and Sizes Compared

The real differences between a latte, cappuccino and flat white: espresso-to-milk ratios, foam thickness, cup sizes, strength and how to make each at home.

7 min read
Cold Brew vs Iced Coffee: Taste, Acidity, Caffeine and Which to Make illustration
No. 10 · Drinks Explained

Cold Brew vs Iced Coffee: Taste, Acidity, Caffeine and Which to Make

Cold brew and iced coffee compared: how each is made, taste, acidity, caffeine, time, cost per glass and which beans suit each — with a quick decision guide.

7 min read
Arabica vs Robusta: Taste, Caffeine and What's Really in Your Coffee Bag illustration
No. 15 · Drinks Explained

Arabica vs Robusta: Taste, Caffeine and What's Really in Your Coffee Bag

Arabica vs Robusta compared: flavor, caffeine, price, crema and where they grow, plus how to read a coffee bag label so you know what you buy.

7 min read
How Is Coffee Decaffeinated? The 4 Main Methods Explained Simply illustration
No. 16 · Drinks Explained

How Is Coffee Decaffeinated? The 4 Main Methods Explained Simply

How decaf coffee is made: Swiss Water, CO2, ethyl acetate ("sugarcane") and methylene chloride methods explained, how much caffeine is left and how to choose.

7 min read
Light vs Medium vs Dark Roast: Taste, Caffeine and the Best Way to Brew Each illustration
No. 22 · Drinks Explained

Light vs Medium vs Dark Roast: Taste, Caffeine and the Best Way to Brew Each

How light, medium and dark roast coffee differ in taste, acidity, body and caffeine — and the best brew method, grind and water temperature for each roast.

8 min read
Ristretto vs Lungo vs Espresso: Shot Sizes, Ratios and Taste Explained illustration
No. 24 · Drinks Explained

Ristretto vs Lungo vs Espresso: Shot Sizes, Ratios and Taste Explained

Ristretto, espresso and lungo use the same coffee but different amounts of water. Compare ratios, volumes, taste, caffeine and when to choose each shot.

6 min read
Cortado vs Gibraltar vs Piccolo Latte: What's the Actual Difference? illustration
No. 33 · Drinks Explained

Cortado vs Gibraltar vs Piccolo Latte: What's the Actual Difference?

Cortado, Gibraltar and piccolo latte look alike but differ in size, milk texture and origin. Compare ratios, cup sizes and how to make each at home.

6 min read
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