Ever found yourself stuck in the Starbucks line, wondering what the real difference is between a Latte and a Cappuccino? Or whether a Cold Brew actually has more caffeine than an Iced Coffee?
You're not alone. The menu is vast, and the "better" choice isn't always clear.
This guide provides a side-by-side comparison of the most popular Starbucks drinks. We'll compare the most important metrics for a Grande (16 oz) size: calories, sugar, caffeine, and estimated price.
This is the most common point of confusion. All three are espresso and steamed milk, but the ratio of milk-to-foam changes everything.
The milkiest. It's espresso with a lot of steamed milk and a small, light layer of foam.
The foam "king." It's an even 1/3 espresso, 1/3 steamed milk, and 1/3 deep, airy foam.
The espresso-forward choice. It's made with ristretto (shorter, more intense) shots, steamed whole milk, and a very thin, velvety layer of microfoam.
| Drink (Grande) | Milk | Calories | Sugar | Caffeine | Est. Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caffè Latte | 2% Milk | 190 | 18g | 150 mg | $4.25 |
| Cappuccino | 2% Milk | 140 | 12g | 150 mg | $4.25 |
| Flat White | Whole Milk | 220 | 13g | 195 mg | $4.95 |
Lowest Calorie:
Cappuccino
The airy foam takes up space that milk would in a latte, saving you calories and sugar.
Highest Caffeine:
Flat White
It typically uses 3 Ristretto shots, giving it a stronger coffee flavor and a bigger kick.
Best for "Coffee" Flavor:
Flat White
More espresso, less milk means stronger coffee taste.
Best for "Creamy" Taste:
Caffè Latte
More steamed milk creates the creamiest texture.
A Caramel Macchiato is not just a Caramel Latte.
A simple mix of espresso and steamed milk. By default, it has no flavoring, so you add syrups (like vanilla or caramel) separately.
This is pre-flavored with vanilla syrup, steamed milk, espresso shots on top, and a drizzle of caramel sauce across the foam.
| Drink (Grande) | Calories | Sugar | Caffeine | Est. Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caffè Latte (Plain) | 190 | 18g | 150 mg | $4.25 |
| Caramel Macchiato | 250 | 33g | 150 mg | $5.25 |
| Caramel Latte (Add Caramel Syrup) | 240 | 37g | 150 mg | $4.85 |
Cold coffee can mean a lot of things. Here's the breakdown.
Brewed hot and cooled. Poured over ice. Classic and straightforward.
Steeped in cold water for 20 hours. Smooth, less acidic, and naturally sweeter.
Cold Brew infused with nitrogen for a creamy, frothy texture (like a Guinness beer).
| Drink (Grande) | Calories | Sugar | Caffeine | Est. Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iced Coffee | 5 | 0g | 165 mg | $3.25 |
| Cold Brew | 5 | 0g | 205 mg | $4.25 |
| Nitro Cold Brew | 5 | 0g | 280 mg | $4.95 |
Highest Caffeine:
Nitro Cold Brew (280 mg)
The nitrogen infusion concentrates the caffeine.
Best Value:
Iced Coffee
Lowest price, still plenty of caffeine (165 mg).
Smoothest Taste:
Cold Brew
Less acidic and naturally sweeter than iced coffee.
Most Unique:
Nitro Cold Brew
Creamy texture without any milk or sugar.
Both are iced espresso drinks with milk, but the Shaken Espresso is lighter and frothier.
Espresso shots poured over ice, then milk is added. Simple and creamy.
Espresso is shaken with ice (creating a frothy layer), then a splash of milk is added. Less milk overall.
| Drink (Grande) | Calories | Sugar | Caffeine | Est. Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iced Caffè Latte | 140 | 11g | 150 mg | $4.45 |
| Iced Shaken Espresso | 100 | 14g | 225 mg | $5.25 |
The "-Drink" series started with the Pink Drink going viral. They're all Refreshers mixed with coconut milk.
| Drink (Grande) | Base | Calories | Sugar | Caffeine | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pink Drink | Strawberry Açaí | 140 | 25g | 45 mg | $5.45 |
| Dragon Drink | Mango Dragonfruit | 130 | 21g | 45 mg | $5.45 |
| Paradise Drink | Pineapple Passionfruit | 140 | 24g | 45 mg | $5.45 |
Nitro Cold Brew (280 mg)
Shaken Espresso (100 cal) or Iced Coffee (5 cal)
Plain Cold Brew (0g)
Caffè Latte
Flat White
Dragon Drink (lowest sugar Refresher)