Paper Cup Sizes: 8oz, 12oz & 16oz Explained

Compare All Three Sizes

Memo Cups produces single-wall PE-lined paper cups in three core sizes. All three accept the same 90mm lid, except the 8oz which uses an 80mm lid.

8oz Paper Cups

The 8oz cup is the standard for espresso-based drinks where the ratio of coffee to milk matters. Cortados, macchiatos, flat whites, and small cappuccinos all sit comfortably in an 8oz cup. It's also the go-to size for kids' hot chocolate and tasting flights.

Pairs with an 80mm lid.

12oz Paper Cups

The 12oz cup is the workhorse of most Canadian cafés. It fits a standard latte, cappuccino, drip coffee, or hot tea — and it's the size customers reach for most often. If you're only printing one cup size to start, this is usually the one.

Pairs with a 90mm lid.

16oz Paper Cups

The 16oz cup is built for large drinks — big lattes, drip coffee to-go, iced beverages, and soups. It's also a popular choice for event caterers serving hot drinks at conferences, weddings, and markets.

Pairs with a 90mm lid.

How to Choose the Right Size for Your Business

• Specialty café — start with 8oz and 12oz to cover espresso drinks and standard lattes
• Drip coffee shop or roaster — 12oz and 16oz cover most to-go orders
• Food truck or quick-serve — 12oz is the safest single-size choice
• Event caterer — 12oz for hot drinks, 16oz for cold drinks and soups
• Brewery taproom or restaurant — 16oz for beverages and tasting pours

Lids & Sleeves

Every Memo cup has a matching lid and optional sleeve. The 80mm lid fits the 8oz cup, and the 90mm lid fits both the 12oz and 16oz cups — so you only need to stock two lid sizes to cover all three cups. Sleeves are available plain or custom-printed with your brand.