Starbucks Sizes: A Complete Guide to Ordering the Perfect Cup
When walking into Starbucks, you might be surprised that instead of the usual small, medium, and large, the menu lists Tall, Grande, Venti, and even Trenta. If you’re unfamiliar with Starbucks' size naming system, ordering the right cup can be a bit confusing.
In this guide, we’ll break down what Starbucks sizes are, how they differ for hot and cold drinks, pricing details, and how to choose the best size for your needs.
What Are the Starbucks Sizes?
Unlike most coffee shops, Starbucks uses Italian-inspired names to categorize their drink sizes. Here’s a breakdown of the Starbucks sizes in order, from smallest to largest:
Size |
Hot Drinks (oz/ml) |
Cold Drinks (oz/ml) |
Short |
8 oz (237 ml) |
N/A |
Tall |
12 oz (355 ml) |
12 oz (355 ml) |
Grande |
16 oz (473 ml) |
16 oz (473 ml) |
Venti |
20 oz (591 ml) |
24 oz (710 ml) |
Trenta |
N/A |
30 oz (887 ml) |
Each Starbucks cup size is designed for different coffee preferences, ranging from espresso-based drinks to large iced beverages that keep you refreshed throughout the day.
Starbucks Drink Sizes Explained
1. Short (8 oz / 237 ml) – The Smallest Hot Coffee Size
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Only available for hot drinks like espresso shots, brewed coffee, and hot chocolate.
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Ideal for those who prefer a strong coffee-to-milk ratio in lattes or cappuccinos.
2. Tall (12 oz / 355 ml) – The Smallest Standard Size
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The smallest size for iced drinks and one of the most common options for hot drinks.
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A good balance for those who enjoy a moderate amount of coffee without overwhelming volume.
3. Grande (16 oz / 473 ml) – The Most Popular Medium Size
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A great option for lattes, mochas, and brewed coffee, offering a balanced caffeine-to-milk ratio.
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One of the most frequently ordered Starbucks sizes.
4. Venti (20 oz Hot / 24 oz Cold) – The Large Option
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"Venti" means "twenty" in Italian, referring to its 20 oz capacity for hot drinks.
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For cold drinks, it’s 24 oz to accommodate more ice, ensuring a refreshing and long-lasting experience.
5. Trenta (30 oz / 887 ml) – The Largest Starbucks Size
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"Trenta" means "thirty", reflecting its 30 oz size.
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Only available for cold drinks, such as iced coffee, iced tea, and refreshers.
Starbucks Sizes Prices: How Much Do They Cost?
The cost of Starbucks coffee varies based on drink type, size, and customizations. Below is an estimated pricing chart:
Size |
Hot Coffee Price |
Cold Coffee Price |
Short |
$2.15 - $3.00 |
N/A |
Tall |
$2.45 - $3.95 |
$2.75 - $4.25 |
Grande |
$2.95 - $4.75 |
$3.25 - $4.95 |
Venti |
$3.45 - $5.25 |
$3.95 - $5.75 |
Trenta |
N/A |
$4.45 - $6.50 |
Prices vary by location, and custom add-ons (like extra espresso shots or syrups) can increase the cost.
Choosing the Right Starbucks Size for Your Coffee
For Espresso-Based Drinks (Lattes, Cappuccinos, Macchiatos)
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If you want stronger espresso flavor, go for Short or Tall sizes.
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If you like a balanced coffee-to-milk ratio, choose a Grande.
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For a large and creamy latte, opt for a Venti.
For Brewed Coffee and Cold Brew Lovers
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If you need a quick caffeine fix, Tall or Grande is ideal.
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If you want more caffeine for a long day, pick Venti or Trenta cold brew.
For Iced Drinks and Refreshers
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Tall and Grande sizes are great for light drinkers.
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Venti and Trenta sizes work best for refreshing, long-lasting hydration.
FAQs About Starbucks Sizes
1. Why Does Starbucks Use Italian Names for Their Sizes?
Starbucks founder Howard Schultz was inspired by Italian coffee culture. To make Starbucks feel like a European coffeehouse experience, he introduced Italian names like Grande, Venti, and Trenta.
2. Why Is "Tall" the Smallest Standard Size?
Originally, Starbucks had three sizes: Short, Tall, and Grande. When Venti was introduced, the Short size was removed from most menus, making Tall the smallest widely available size.
3. Are All Starbucks Sizes Available for Every Drink?
No. Some drinks, such as espresso shots and flat whites, are only available in smaller sizes (Short or Tall). The Trenta size is only available for select iced drinks.
4. Which Starbucks Size Has the Most Caffeine?
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For maximum caffeine, choose Venti or Trenta Cold Brew.
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For strong espresso flavor, go for a Short or Tall cappuccino.
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At Bazan Coffee, we understand that the key to enjoying authentic Vietnamese coffee starts with choosing only the finest beans. Whether you’re brewing at home or enjoying a traditional cup at your favorite café, the quality of the beans is paramount to capturing the true essence of Vietnamese coffee. With Bazan’s premium, specialty-grade beans, you'll enjoy a rich, bold, and smooth cup that embodies the true spirit of Vietnam's coffee culture.
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Why Choose Fine Robusta – Krong Nang?
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Grown at 650m in Krong Nang, Dak Lak: The volcanic soil in this region imparts a depth and complexity to the coffee, making it perfect for brewing a robust cup of Vietnamese coffee.
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72-Hour Natural Anaerobic Fermentation: This unique process enhances the flavor profile by bringing out deep caramelized sweetness, smooth textures, and a creamy body, creating a coffee that’s rich and satisfying.
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Bold & Full-Bodied: With more caffeine than many Arabica beans, Fine Robusta – Krong Nang provides a strong, energizing coffee that lovers of intense coffee flavors will appreciate.
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Why Choose Special Vietnam Blend?
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A Fusion of Arabica & Fine Robusta: The lively acidity of Arabica beans, combined with the rich body of Robusta, results in a smooth and complex cup of coffee, perfect for Vietnamese coffee.
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Tasting Notes of Pineapple & Caramel: These fruity and caramel notes provide depth and natural sweetness, enriching the overall flavor of your coffee.
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Versatile Brewing: Whether you’re preparing traditional Vietnamese coffee or experimenting with other brewing methods, Special Vietnam Blend is ideal for any coffee drink.
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Why Choose Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat?
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Grown at 1,550m in Cau Dat, Da Lat: The cool climate and mineral-rich soil create the perfect conditions for producing high-quality Arabica beans, ideal for a refined coffee.
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Fully Washed Processing: This method ensures a clean, vibrant cup with floral and caramel undertones, perfect for a sophisticated Vietnamese coffee.
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Complex Tasting Notes: Layers of bell pepper, spices, and caramel create a nuanced and delightful flavor profile, making your Vietnamese coffee experience all the more enjoyable.
If you prefer a bright, floral coffee with delicate complexity, Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat will enhance your coffee ritual.
Which Coffee Should You Choose for Your Vietnamese Coffee Ritual?
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For a bold, full-bodied espresso with deep caramelized sweetness → Fine Robusta – Krong Nang
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For a smooth, balanced espresso with fruity complexity → Special Vietnam Blend
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For a refined, bright espresso with caramel and spicy notes → Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat
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