Milk Tea vs. Boba Tea: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve ever walked into a tea shop and seen milk tea and boba tea on the menu, you might have wondered—aren’t they the same thing? While both drinks share similarities, they have distinct differences in ingredients, preparation, and flavors.

Whether you're a fan of classic milk tea or love the chewy tapioca pearls in boba tea, this guide will break down the key differences and help you decide which one is right for you.

What is Milk Tea?

At its core, milk tea is a combination of tea, milk (or a milk alternative), and sweetener. It’s a broad term that refers to any tea-based drink made with milk, and it comes in many varieties worldwide.

✔ Classic British Milk Tea – Black tea with milk and sugar (often called English tea)
✔ Hong Kong-style Milk Tea – Strong black tea with sweetened condensed milk
✔ Matcha Latte – Japanese green tea powder with milk
✔ Thai Milk Tea – Spiced black tea with condensed milk and sugar
✔ Chai Latte – Spiced black tea with frothed milk

👉 Want a delicious milk tea blend? Try Organic Masala Chai for a spiced, creamy tea experience.

What is Boba Tea?

Boba tea, also known as bubble tea, is a type of milk tea that includes chewy tapioca pearls (also called boba). It originated in Taiwan in the 1980s and has since become a worldwide favorite.

Main Ingredients of Boba Tea:
✔ Milk Tea Base – Usually black, green, or oolong tea mixed with milk
✔ Tapioca Pearls (Boba) – Soft, chewy pearls made from tapioca starch
✔ Sweetener – Typically brown sugar, honey, or flavored syrups
✔ Ice (Optional) – Some boba teas are served iced for extra refreshment

Popular Boba Tea Flavors:
✔ Classic Milk Tea with Boba – Black tea, milk, and tapioca pearls
✔ Taro Boba Tea – A purple, nutty-flavored drink made with taro root
✔ Matcha Boba Tea – Green tea matcha latte with chewy boba pearls
✔ Honeydew or Mango Boba Tea – Fruity milk tea with tropical flavors

👉 Looking for a matcha-infused boba drink? Try Kato Matcha Green Tea Powder for a delicious matcha latte with boba.

Milk Tea vs. Boba Tea: The Key Differences

💡 Main Difference: All boba teas are milk teas, but not all milk teas have boba!

How to Make a Simple Milk Tea at Home

Ingredients:

• 1 cup brewed black or green tea
• ½ cup milk (or plant-based alternative)
• 1–2 tsp sweetener (honey, sugar, or maple syrup)

Instructions:

1. Brew a strong cup of tea and let it cool slightly.
2. Stir in sweetener and warm or frothed milk.
3. Enjoy as is or serve over ice for an iced milk tea!

💡 Pro Tip: Try it with Organic Masala Chai for a spiced twist!

How to Make Boba Tea at Home

Ingredients:

• 1 cup brewed tea (black, green, or matcha)
• ½ cup milk
• 1–2 tsp sweetener
• ¼ cup tapioca pearls (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Cook the tapioca pearls according to package instructions and let them cool in sugar syrup.
2. Brew tea and mix with milk and sweetener.
3. Add boba pearls to the bottom of a glass, pour in tea, and serve with a wide straw!

💡 Pro Tip: Use Kato Matcha Green Tea Powder for a vibrant matcha boba tea!

Which One Should You Choose?

Go for milk tea if you:
✔ Prefer a smooth, creamy tea without chewy add-ins
✔ Like traditional tea-based lattes
✔ Want a warm or iced tea option

Go for boba tea if you:
✔ Love the chewy texture of tapioca pearls
✔ Want a fun, dessert-like drink
✔ Prefer an iced, refreshing tea experience

Final Thoughts: The Best of Both Worlds

Milk tea and boba tea each have their own unique charm, and the best part is—you don’t have to choose! Whether you prefer a classic chai latte or a fun, chewy matcha boba tea, there’s something for everyone.

Want to try making your own? Get started with Organic Masala Chai for a cozy milk tea or Kato Matcha Green Tea Powder for a delicious matcha boba!