Paper Smoothie Straws vs Cocktail Straws: Which to Use?
By Discount Coffee | Published: 2026-10-30
Category: Comparisons
Compare black paper smoothie straws and cocktail straws by size, strength, and best use. Find the right straw for thick drinks or elegant cocktails.
Quick answer
Choose paper smoothie straws for thick drinks like smoothies and milkshakes; choose cocktail straws for elegant sipping in bars and restaurants. The key difference is the bore width and length.
Bore width and drink thickness
The most important difference between these two straws is the bore size. The smoothie straw has a 6mm diameter, while the cocktail straw is 5mm. That extra millimeter makes a real difference when you're pulling thick smoothie or milkshake through the straw.
For a thin cocktail or a fizzy drink, the slim 5mm bore is perfectly adequate and feels more refined. For a thick fruit smoothie, the wider bore reduces the effort needed to sip and helps fruit chunks pass through more easily.
Length and presentation
Length matters too. The smoothie straw is 200mm long, which suits tall takeaway cups and deep milkshake glasses. The cocktail straw is 145mm long, a better fit for shorter cocktail glasses and coupes where a long straw would look awkward.
Both straws are black, which gives a sleek, uniform look. The cocktail straw's slim profile suits high-end bars and events, while the smoothie straw's wider presence works well in busy juice bars and cafes.
How to choose
- Thick drinks in tall cups: Choose the smoothie straw. Its 6mm bore and 200mm length are built for smoothies, milkshakes, and other thick beverages. For thick drinks, the wider bore is non-negotiable.
- Cocktails and elegant service: Choose the cocktail straw. Its 5mm bore and 145mm length suit short glasses and refined presentation. For cocktails, the slim profile looks better and is sufficient.
- Budget and volume: Both straws come in boxes of 250. The cocktail straw is slightly cheaper per box, but the smoothie straw costs more per unit. If you serve both types of drinks, stock both sizes to match the drink.
Product facts
- Paper Smoothie Straws - Black (250): The Paper Smoothie Straws - Black are 200mm x 6mm and come in a box of 250. The wider bore and longer length handle thick drinks and tall cups without getting soggy.
Paper Smoothie Straws - Black (250) - Cocktail Paper Straws - Black (250): The Cocktail Paper Straws - Black are 145mm x 5mm and come in a box of 250. The slim profile fits cocktail glasses and offers a more elegant sipping experience.
Cocktail Paper Straws - Black (250)
Who should buy which
Best for
- Smoothie bars, juice bars, and milkshake shops that serve thick drinks in tall cups
- Caterers and events that need a durable straw for high-volume thick beverages
Not for
- Cocktail lounges and bars that prioritize elegant presentation over bore width
- Anyone serving mostly thin drinks where a slim straw is sufficient and more cost-effective
