You walk into a café craving something cold and caffeinated. You spot two tempting options on the menu: cold brew and iced latte. They both sound refreshing. They’re both served over ice. But what’s the real difference—and which one should you go for?
If you’ve ever been stumped at the counter, this guide will help you understand how these two chilled coffee favorites stack up. Spoiler: they’re not just iced versions of the same drink.
Brew
Let’s start with how each one is made. Cold brew is brewed cold—literally. Coarse coffee grounds are steeped in cold water for 12 to 24 hours. No heat touches it. This slow process creates a smooth, low-acid concentrate that’s then diluted with water or milk and poured over ice.
An iced latte, on the other hand, starts with a hot espresso shot. The espresso is poured over cold milk (usually around 8–12 ounces) and then topped with ice. So even though it ends up cold, it begins with heat.
| Drink | Brew Method |
|---|---|
| Cold Brew | Steeped in cold water (12–24 hrs) |
| Iced Latte | Hot espresso poured over cold milk |
Taste
Cold brew is known for its mellow, slightly sweet, chocolatey flavor. Because it’s brewed cold, it’s less acidic and lacks the bitter edge that hot-brewed coffee sometimes has.
Iced lattes are stronger in flavor upfront, thanks to the espresso shot. You’ll notice more of that roasted, bold coffee punch, especially if there’s not a lot of milk added.
If you like your coffee smooth and easygoing, cold brew is your match. If you prefer something creamy but with that classic espresso edge, go for the iced latte.
Caffeine
This one might surprise you. Cold brew usually contains more caffeine than an iced latte—but it depends on the ratio used. Since cold brew is often made as a concentrate, it packs more caffeine per ounce.
A typical 16 oz cold brew might have around 200 mg of caffeine. Meanwhile, an iced latte with a single or double espresso shot will clock in at 75–150 mg, depending on size.
If you’re chasing a serious energy boost, cold brew might give you the edge.
Milk
Here’s another big difference—milk.
An iced latte always includes milk. It’s basically coffee’s creamier cousin. You can choose dairy or go with alternatives like oat, almond, soy, or coconut milk.
Cold brew, however, is typically served black by default, though many cafés offer the option to add milk or cream. But it’s not required for the drink to be complete.
So if you want something milky and smooth? Iced latte. Prefer your coffee bold and dark? Cold brew wins.
Customization
Both drinks are customizable, but they offer different flexibility.
Iced lattes are like blank canvases. Add syrups, flavored shots, different milks—go wild. Vanilla oat milk latte? Done. Caramel almond latte? Easy.
Cold brew is a little more limited, but you can still add flavors or creamers. It’s just not designed to carry the same sweet or foamy mix-ins as lattes.
| Customization | Cold Brew | Iced Latte |
|---|---|---|
| Syrups | Optional | Common |
| Milk Options | Optional | Standard |
| Foam (cold/frothed) | Rare | Often added |
| Flavored Variants | Less frequent | Very popular |
Acidity
Cold brew is naturally low in acidity. That makes it gentler on the stomach and ideal for people who get heartburn or acid reflux from coffee.
Iced lattes are brewed with hot espresso, so they still carry the acidity of regular coffee. The milk tones it down a bit, but if your stomach is sensitive, cold brew is usually the safer choice.
Price
Generally speaking, cold brew costs a little more than an iced latte. That’s because it takes more time and coffee grounds to produce.
Still, prices vary based on café and region. But if you’re budget-watching, you might find the iced latte comes in slightly cheaper—unless you start adding extra shots or syrups.
Summary Table
| Category | Cold Brew | Iced Latte |
|---|---|---|
| Brew Method | Steeped cold, no heat | Hot espresso + cold milk |
| Flavor | Smooth, low-acid, mellow | Bold, creamy, espresso-forward |
| Caffeine | Higher (usually) | Lower to moderate |
| Milk Content | Optional | Always includes milk |
| Acidity | Low | Moderate |
| Customization | Basic | Highly customizable |
| Cost | Slightly more expensive | Usually more affordable |
Coffee Battle
Cold brew or iced latte—it really depends on your mood, your taste buds, and how much energy you need. If you want something bold, smooth, and straight-up refreshing, cold brew is your go-to. But if you’re in the mood for a creamy, chill, flavor-packed drink, iced latte delivers.
The best part? You don’t have to choose just one forever. Try both, mix it up, and see what suits your vibe.
FAQs
Which has more caffeine?
Cold brew typically has more caffeine than an iced latte.
Is cold brew stronger than iced latte?
Yes, cold brew is smoother but packs more caffeine overall.
Does an iced latte always have milk?
Yes, milk is a main ingredient in every iced latte.
Is cold brew less acidic?
Yes, it’s naturally low in acidity and easier on the stomach.
Can I customize both drinks?
Yes, but iced lattes offer more flexibility with flavors and milk.
