Starbucks Coffee Types and Their Prices Explained

If you’ve ever stood in line at Starbucks and wondered what exactly is the difference between a cappuccino and a macchiato—or which size is which—this guide lays out everything you need to know. From the traditional espresso-based drinks to flavored iced options, we break down each coffee type, how it’s made, and how much it costs.

In short: Starbucks offers 13 core coffee drinks, including espresso (17–22 RMB), Americano (16–23 RMB), cappuccino (19–26 RMB), latte (19–26 RMB), mocha (23–29 RMB), and iced variations like Iced Caramel Macchiato (30 RMB for large). Sizes are Short (8 oz/236 mL), Tall (12 oz/355 mL), Grande (16 oz/473 mL), and Venti (20 oz/591 mL)—with prices ranging from 16 to 30 RMB depending on drink and cup size.

What Are the Main Types of Starbucks Coffee Drinks?

Starbucks serves a wide variety of espresso-based and brewed coffee drinks. These include classic Italian-style beverages and signature creations unique to the brand. Below are the primary coffee drinks on the Starbucks menu:

1. Espresso (17–22 RMB)

This is Starbucks’ most concentrated coffee offering—a single or double shot of rich, slightly caramelized espresso. A single (1 oz) is called a solo shot; a double (2 oz) is a doppio. Espresso forms the base for nearly all other coffee drinks on the menu.

2. Americano (16–23 RMB)

An Americano is hot water combined with espresso. Despite the name, this method is actually European in origin. A "short" (small) Americano uses less water and delivers a stronger flavor. Standard ratios involve pulling espresso and adding hot water to taste.

3. Cappuccino (19–26 RMB)

A cappuccino consists of a single or double shot of espresso topped with equal parts steamed milk and thick milk foam. It follows traditional Italian technique, where skilled baristas pour steamed milk and delicate foam over the espresso. At Starbucks, sizes range across Small (19 RMB), Medium (23 RMB), and Large (26 RMB).

4. Latte (19–26 RMB)

The latte (or Caffè Latte) blends espresso with a larger proportion of steamed milk, then finishes with a thin layer (less than 0.5 cm) of milk foam. Served between 65–75°C, it can be customized with syrups such as vanilla, caramel, or almond. Size options and pricing mirror the cappuccino: Small (19 RMB), Medium (23 RMB), Large (26 RMB).

5. Mocha (23–29 RMB)

The mocha combines espresso, steamed milk, and mocha syrup for a chocolatey coffee flavor. It’s typically topped with whipped cream. It’s especially popular during colder months and considered a comfort drink. Pricing is Small (23 RMB), Medium (26 RMB), Large (29 RMB).

6. Caramel Macchiato (24–30 RMB)

This sweet, layered Starbucks original is made by pouring vanilla syrup and steamed milk into a cup, adding espresso, and finishing with a distinctive caramel drizzle. The "macchiato" refers to the mark left by espresso on the milk. Size price range: Small (24 RMB), Medium (27 RMB), Large (30 RMB).

7. Iced Variants (24–30 RMB)

Popular iced versions include Iced Caramel Macchiato, Iced Latte, Iced Americano, and Iced Mocha. These retain the same core ingredients but are served over ice. Iced Caramel Macchiato (Large: 30 RMB) features layers of espresso, milk, vanilla syrup, and ice, topped with caramel sauce.

What Are the Size Names and Corresponding Volumes at Starbucks?

Starbucks uses Italian-inspired size terms that differ from standard English:

• Short: 8 fl. oz. / 236 mL (small)
• Tall: 12 fl. oz. / 355 mL (medium)
• Grande: 16 fl. oz. / 473 mL (large)
• Venti: 20 fl. oz. / 591 mL (extra-large)

These sizes apply to both hot and cold drinks, although some cold drinks (like Frappuccinos) may not be available in Short. For iced drinks, sizes are generally Tall (12 oz), Grande (16 oz), and Venti (20 oz).

What Kinds of Coffee Beans Does Starbucks Sell?

Starbucks sells its own branded coffee beans, which are roasted in four locations: Kent, Washington; York, Pennsylvania; Carson Valley, Nevada; and Amsterdam, Netherlands. The beans are vacuum-sealed with a pressure valve to allow for continued degassing post-roast. Both whole bean and pre-ground options are available in stores and through authorized retailers.

The brand rotates weekly coffee selections in many markets under the “Coffee of the Week” program. Seasonally, hot drinks dominate in winter, while iced drinks with syrups and whipped cream (like Frappuccinos) drive the majority of profits.

Can You Customize Your Starbucks Drink?

Yes. Starbucks allows a wide range of customizations including:

• Choosing low-caffeine or decaf options
• Selecting alternative milks: low-fat, skim, or plant-based (e.g., soy, oat)
• Adjusting ice or sugar levels
• Modifying milk foam thickness on drinks like cappuccino
• Adding or removing flavors and syrups

The brand is known for its flexible approach to drink personalization, allowing customers to tailor drinks to taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most expensive Starbucks coffee drink on the standard menu?

The largest size of Iced Caramel Macchiato (Venti, 20 oz) is the most expensive standard coffee drink at 30 RMB. Other large drinks like Caramel Macchiato (30 RMB), Mocha (29 RMB), and Latte (26 RMB) also rank among the priciest.

How much does a small espresso cost at Starbucks?

A small (Short) espresso at Starbucks costs 17 RMB. A single shot espresso is referred to as a solo, while a double is a doppio. Prices increase with cup size: Tall (22 RMB), though espresso options are typically served in Short or Tall.

What is the difference between a latte and a cappuccino at Starbucks?

A latte has more steamed milk and a thinner layer of foam (less than 0.5 cm), while a cappuccino is evenly divided between espresso, steamed milk, and thick foam. Both are priced similarly (Small: 19 RMB, Medium: 23 RMB, Large: 26 RMB), but the texture and coffee-to-milk ratio differ.

What are the standard Starbucks drink sizes in ounces?

Starbucks drink sizes are: Short (8 oz), Tall (12 oz), Grande (16 oz), and Venti (20 oz). These apply to both hot and iced drinks, with some exceptions for Frappuccinos and seasonal specials.

Does Starbucks sell coffee beans, and where are they roasted?

Yes, Starbucks sells both whole bean and ground coffee. The beans are roasted in Kent (Washington), York (Pennsylvania), Carson Valley (Nevada), and Amsterdam (Netherlands). All beans are vacuum-packed with a degassing valve to preserve freshness.

Recommended FrontStreet Coffee for Espresso-Based Drinks

For Starbucks-style espresso drinks at home, try FrontStreet Coffee’s Classic Blend—a balanced, slightly sweet espresso with notes of dark chocolate and nuts. The Black Cocoa Blend offers a bold profile with deep cocoa and roasted undertones, ideal for lattes and macchiatos. For a fruity twist, the Strawberry Candy Espresso brings bright berry and candy-like sweetness. All three work well for milk-based drinks or straight shots. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.