Coffee Mug Sizes: Guide to Finding the Perfect Cup

There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh brewed coffee first thing in the morning. Whether you like a little caffeine boost or prefer a calm cup of tea, a mug is the first thing you’ll need.

From espresso to oversized, coffee mugs come in all shapes and sizes and are suited to the type of beverage you’re drinking.

While drinking coffee is the most obvious use for a coffee mug, there are many other ways to creatively use your mug. A custom photo mug makes the perfect gift, or you can fill an oversized latte mug with soup or your favorite snacks. To narrow down the perfect cup size, we outline coffee mug sizes in our guide, so you’ll know which is best for the beverage of your choice.

Coffee Mug Size Guide

To decide on a coffee mug size, first think about your drink of choice. Do you prefer a shot of espresso or a warm foamy latte? Are you a mom on the go or do you travel a lot? Our guide below lists the most common coffee cups and the best mug to enjoy in those sizes.

Mug Type	Mug Size (Ounces)
Espresso	2-3 oz
Cappuccino	5-6 oz
Classic	8-15 oz
Latte	11-15 oz
Oversized Mug	20-25 oz
Oversized Latte	20-25 oz
Travel Tumbler	15-20 oz
Travel Mug	15-20 oz

Standard Coffee Mugs

A coffee mug anywhere from 8 to 10 ounces is a good size for your favorite drip coffee. If you consider yourself a more serious caffeine drinker, you may want to graduate to an 11 or 15-ounce cup. We break down standard coffee cup sizes below and share the best uses for each.

Espresso Cup

Espresso is the base for most specialty coffees – meaning that fancy vanilla oat milk latte starts with a simple shot of espresso. A shot of espresso typically comes served in a 2 to 3-ounce cup (also called a demitasse) with a small handle. Espresso cups are narrow at the base and wider at the rim, designed to help concentrate the flavor of the shot.

Best for: Shot of espresso

Cappuccino Mug

A cappuccino is typically prepared with a single shot of espresso and an equal amount of steamed milk. Then, it’s topped with foam. Cappuccinos typically come in a 5 to 6-ounce cup that has a narrow base and a wider rim. Both charming and traditional, cappuccino mugs are usually paired with a matching saucer plate.

Best for: Cappuccinos, of course!

Classic Coffee Mug

Whether you work in an office or work from home, a classic coffee mug is the perfect companion. This mug holds around 8 to 11 ounces depending on the height of the cup. Regardless of your drink of choice, you can dress up your desk with a personalized mug, desk calendar, and pretty plant. If you have a lot on your plate, daydream about your upcoming trip to Venice or reminisce on your past vacation with a fun photo mug.

Best for: Your beverage of choice – filtered coffee, pour over or French press

Latte Mug

Latte mugs typically range in size from 11 to 15 oz, providing an ideal balance for coffee enthusiasts. This size allows for a generous serving of espresso and steamed milk, making it perfect for crafting a rich and creamy latte. These mugs also offer enough space for foam art, whipped cream, or flavored syrups, enhancing the overall coffee experience. Whether you’re enjoying a morning coffee or an afternoon treat, a latte mug offers the perfect capacity for a satisfying and indulgent beverage.

Best for: Latte, tea or soup

Oversized Coffee Mugs

Oversized coffee mugs serve many purposes other than coffee, believe it or not. Let’s explore some ways to get creative with your oversized drinkware.

Oversized Classic Mug

Sometimes a normal cup of coffee just doesn’t cut it – a little extra room is necessary to make it through those early mornings. An oversized classic coffee mug holds around 20 to 25 ounces.

Best for: Extra cup of coffee (and caffeine)

Oversized Latte

A 25 oz. latte mug is generously sized, ideal for those who love a substantial serving of their favorite latte. With its ample capacity, this mug can hold a large amount of steamed milk and espresso, perfect for enjoying a rich and creamy latte. It also provides plenty of room for creative toppings like foam art, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cocoa, making it a versatile choice for both home baristas and coffee enthusiasts. Additionally, this versatile mug can double as a bowl for enjoying hearty servings of soup, cereal, or snacks, adding convenience to your kitchenware collection.

Best for: Extra large latte, snacks, soup or dessert

Travel Coffee Mugs

The easiest way to get your coffee intake on the go is with a travel mug. The insulation of a travel mug not only keeps your drinks hot or cold, but prevents spills when you’re driving or running around.

Travel Tumbler

Travel mugs hold anywhere from 15 to 20 ounces of coffee and fit perfectly in your cup holder. Show off some personality with a DIY marker mug and personalized travel mug by adding your favorite travel quote or some adorable photos of the family. A travel tumbler also makes the perfect gift for a coffee lover that simply doesn’t have time to sip a beverage at home.

Best for: Drink of choice, on the go

Travel Mug

If you need a little extra stability with your travel mug, consider one with a handle. Travel mugs with a handle come in larger sizes holding anywhere from 15 to 20 ounces of coffee. Include a collage of photos with your dog, family or friends to remember when you’re traveling.

Best for: Drink of choice, on the go

Related Resources on Coffee Cup Sizes

Choosing the right coffee mug size can significantly enhance your coffee-drinking experience. Whether you prefer a small, concentrated espresso shot, a medium-sized latte, or a large, indulgent brew, understanding the different sizes helps you find the perfect fit for your needs. Explore the variety of options and discover the mug that complements your favorite coffee moments. Happy sipping!

Additional Resources: