One of the most common questions we get about matcha is: how much caffeine does it have? Whether you're trying to cut back on coffee, looking for a steady energy boost, or just curious about what’s in your cup, we’ve got the answers.
How Much Caffeine Is in Matcha?
On average, matcha contains about 20–35 mg of caffeine per gram of powder. Since a typical serving uses 1 to 2 grams (about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon), that means a cup of matcha has around 40–70 mg of caffeine.
For comparison, here’s how matcha stacks up:
- Matcha vs. Brewed Coffee – A standard 8-ounce cup of coffee has about 95 mg of caffeine (ranging from 70 to 140 mg, depending on the brew). A typical matcha serving lands lower, but if you use a generous amount of powder, the difference isn’t huge (FDA)
- Matcha vs. Espresso – A 1-ounce shot of espresso has roughly 63 mg of caffeine (Mayo Clinic), which is about the same as a strong cup of matcha.
- Matcha vs. Green Tea Bags – Regular green tea has 25–30 mg of caffeine per cup, much less than matcha. That’s because matcha uses the whole leaf, not just a water infusion (Journal of Food Science).
- Matcha vs. Black Tea – Black tea typically has 47 mg of caffeine per cup, placing it between matcha and coffee.
- Matcha vs. Energy Drinks – A small Red Bull (8.4 oz) has 80 mg of caffeine, similar to a high-end matcha serving, but without the added benefits of L-theanine.
Why Does Matcha Contain Caffeine?
Matcha comes from the Camellia sinensis plant, the same as all tea. Caffeine is a natural defense mechanism for tea leaves, and matcha is even stronger because of how it’s grown. Shading the plants before harvest increases both caffeine and L-theanine, a unique amino acid that helps smooth caffeine’s effects.
How Matcha’s Caffeine Feels Different
Caffeine is caffeine—chemically, it works the same whether it comes from coffee or tea. But matcha’s L-theanine content changes the experience. Research shows that L-theanine promotes alpha brain waves, associated with a calm, focused state, reducing jitters and crashes (Nutrients Journal). Many people describe matcha’s energy as smoother and longer-lasting than coffee’s quick spike.
Caffeine Guidelines & Matcha Timing
Health authorities like the FDA and Mayo Clinic suggest 400 mg of caffeine per day is safe for most adults. That’s about 5-6 teaspoons of matcha, more than most people drink. Pregnant individuals should limit caffeine to 200 mg daily, or about 3 teaspoons of matcha (ACOG).
As for timing? If coffee keeps you up late, matcha will too. While L-theanine may ease caffeine’s impact, it’s still smart to cut off caffeine by mid-afternoon.
Matcha Lattes & Caffeine Levels
Drinking matcha in a latte? The caffeine amount depends on how much matcha is used. Some cafes use 2 teaspoons per large latte, others just 1 teaspoon. If you make matcha at home, you’re in control!
The Takeaway
Matcha provides a moderate caffeine boost, somewhere between green tea and coffee. But thanks to L-theanine, matcha’s caffeine feels smoother and more sustained—giving you focus without the jitters. Whether you’re switching from coffee or just exploring new ways to get your morning lift, matcha is a worthy contender.
What if your go-to drink enhanced productivity, reduced stress, and supported overall well-being? Matcha isn’t just a pick-me-up—it’s a smarter, science-backed way to fuel your day. Enjoy energy that keeps you going without the crash. Ready to make the switch? Shop now and fuel your focus.