“”

Home | Blog | Caffeine in Coffee vs. Tea: Which Has More?
Refreshing Thoughts
October 8, 2014

Caffeine in Coffee vs. Tea: Which Has More?

Just as you wouldn’t drink a decaffeinated cup of nighttime tea right after your morning alarm goes off, you’re not going to reach for a fresh cup of coffee as you settle into bed for the evening.

Whether you enjoy drinking coffee and tea for the taste or need a pick-me-up to get you through the day, the amount of caffeine in coffee vs. tea can vary widely depending on type of blend you choose. Even K-Cups have a different amount of caffeine than your standard cup of tea or coffee!

How much caffeine is in coffee?

A standard pot of brewed coffee sets the benchmark for understanding the amount of caffeine contained in other drinks. According to Mayo Clinic, your average pot of coffee can contain up to 200 milligrams, or as little as 95 milligrams, of caffeine per eight-ounce cup, depending on the type of roast you choose. Dark roast coffees actually have less caffeine than lighter breakfast blends.

However, instant coffee and espresso differ from your standard coffee blends. Instant coffee is not as strong as brewed coffee, ranging from 65-100 milligrams per serving. Espresso on the other hand can be as strong as an eight-ounce cup of coffee, with approximately 100-150 milligrams of caffeine per shot.

How much caffeine is in tea?

Tea contains less caffeine than coffee. A standard cup of black tea contains anywhere between 14-70 milligrams of caffeine, and green tea usually contains 24-45 milligrams of caffeine per cup. This makes tea a great (and healthy) afternoon drink when you’re looking for a small energy boost to get you through the rest of the day.

How much caffeine is in K-Cups?

A single-serve K-Cup is typically not as strong as a pot of traditionally brewed coffee, but it’s a close alternative. A standard single serving made from your Keurig contains between 75-150 milligrams per cup. Although it’s slightly weaker than traditionally brewed coffee, it has plenty enough caffeine to perk you up and keep you focused throughout the day. Plus, K-Cups allow you to brew your favorite flavor of coffee within a matter of seconds, making it the perfect grab-and-go option as you’re running out the door or heading to a meeting.

Let us know – how do you get your caffeine fix during the day?

Top