The Caffeine Content Of 34 Popular Energy Drinks, Ranked Lowest To Highest

Energy drinks have become a staple in today's fast-paced world. They offer a quick fix to fight fatigue, fuel workouts, aid in recovery, propel us through demanding workdays, or simply serve as a tasty pick-me-up. While both coffee and regular soda can give you a caffeine boost, the appeal of energy drinks lies in the potent mix of caffeine, sugar, and other stimulating ingredients that promise an instant energy surge. However, with a plethora of options now available on the market, choosing the right energy drink can be quite a task.

The key to making an informed decision begins with determining your desired caffeine content. This is an important aspect since energy drinks can vary greatly in their caffeine levels. Once you've decided on the caffeine content, there's a wide spectrum of flavors to consider. From the mysterious allure of traditional energy drink flavors to the soothing familiarity of tea-based variants or the invigorating jolt of java-infused offerings, there's an energy drink to suit everyone.

Generally, highly caffeinated drinks are designed to provide a quick boost of energy, but Rockstar Unplugged flips the script. Marketed as a beverage to help you unwind and relax, its 80 milligrams of caffeine in a 12-ounce can places it among the options with the lowest caffeine content. Furthermore, this drink is sugar-free and calorie-free with a unique infusion of hemp. It's available in several light, fruity flavors such as Blueberry, Passionfruit, and Raspberry Cucumber. These flavors embody a sense of relaxation and tranquility.

When you think of energy drinks, there's a good chance Red Bull is one of the first that comes to mind. With an 80-milligram caffeine content, in an 8.4-ounce can, Red Bull stands among the more modestly caffeinated offerings in this category. Beyond its classic flavor, Red Bull also tempts consumers with an array of special edition offerings. These include the Coconut Edition, which blends coconut and berry; the Amber Edition, with its intriguing mix of strawberry and apricot; and the Summer Edition which captures the unique Juneberry.

For those in search of a more health-conscious energy drink, V8 delivers a blend of fruit, veggies, and tea. Each 11.5 ounce provides a modest 80 milligrams of caffeine, making it an ideal choice for individuals concerned about their health or caffeine intake. Additionally, with no added sugar, it's a fantastic option for those keeping a close eye on their sugar consumption. V8 doesn't skimp on flavor and offers delectable options in Orange Pineapple, Peach Mango, Wildberry, and Black Cherry. For a bit of fizz, there are also sparkling versions available.

With a 20-milligram jump in caffeine in the same 12-ounce can, Optimum Nutrition brings Essential Amin.o. Energy. These drinks are a mixture of energy and hydration to enjoy within your exercise routine or even in the morning to get a jump start on your day. As the name suggests, there are also aminos and electrolytes to ensure that your body keeps a solid grip as you enjoy being fueled throughout your day. Like others, you'll find this and other flavors, but we think the Blueberry Lemonade looks the most refreshing.

In the same vein as Optimum Nutrition's product, Celsius presents one of the more healthy energy drinks with 12 ounces that contain 100 milligrams of caffeine and are packed with ingredients to support hydration and post-workout recovery. This includes branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), electrolytes, tart cherry, and vitamin D3. There are three different sparkling flavor options for this drink: Blue Razz, Tropical Twist, and Blood Orange Lemonade. All three flavors contain tart cherry, an ingredient that does not influence the taste.

While most energy drinks are packaged in cans, making it challenging to consume in small doses, Uptime breaks from the norm with a resealable cap, allowing for incremental enjoyment (even if it is only 12 ounces) while preserving the flavor. Each bottle contains 142 milligrams of caffeine and is available in a variety of flavors, including those that lean toward the tart side, such as Original Citrus, Blood Orange, and Mango Pineapple. Furthermore, these drinks contain no sodium and are non-GMO, catering to health-conscious consumers.

The name Monster often conjures images of the iconic big green can with claw marks. However, Monster Hydro, while from the same brand, is bit of a departure from that image. Tailored to be enjoyed during your workout, it also comes in a resealable bottle like Uptime for a 20-ounce drink, an especially nice feature for the size. Designed to support both hydration and energy, a unique aspect of Monster Hydro is that it's non-carbonated, setting it apart from many other drinks in the Monster line-up.

If you're a fan of the classic Monster drink but have always wanted something a bit more fruity, Juice Monster is an excellent option. With 150 milligrams of caffeine, it contains less caffeine than the original green Monster, but it compensates with a delightfully fruity twist and comes in a variety of flavors. Choices range from the tropical notes of Mango Loco and the zesty tones of Aussie Lemonade to more punchy alternatives like Pacific Punch or Pipeline Punch.

For those seeking a no-sugar option and willing to moderate their caffeine intake (slightly), Monster Ultra is a tasty choice. It comes in a wide array of flavors and offers fewer calories, no sugar, and a substantial amount of caffeine at 150 milligrams in a 16-ounce can. In addition to flavors named after colors like Rosa, Violet, Red, and Blue, there are several fruity choices available, such as Peachy Keen, Watermelon, Fiesta Mango, and Strawberry Dreams.

Solimo is a brand known for offering a wide variety of products at discounted prices, exclusively through Amazon. In addition to producing items like soaps and pet products, the brand also offers a Solimo energy drink. Aside from being convenient, this beverage boasts 152 milligrams of caffeine in 16 ounces and contains zero sugar; similar to Monster's Ultra line, it is lightly carbonated. Currently, there are two flavors available in this flavor line: a Red variant and a Silver one.

If you're in search of the potent energy kick that Rockstar provides but find its typical strong, sharp flavors are not quite to your taste, consider exploring the Rockstar Boom line. Available in two flavors inspired by whipped desserts: one orange and the other strawberry. These 16-ounce cans pack 160 milligrams of caffeine, and they're designed to evoke more of a dessert feel rather than a traditional energy drink one, all while delivering the same caffeinated benefits.

Each energy drink company appears to have a unique angle to its marketing, and Full Throttle is no exception. This brand positions its product with imagery steeped in raw power and rugged individualism. Photographs of its cans are often set against backdrops of motorcycles, hunting equipment, and even the American flag. The drink comes in two varieties, each packing 160 milligrams of caffeine in the 16-ounce can. You can choose between the tart, invigorating Original Citrus or the bold, refreshing True Blue.

There's a certain pleasure in sampling the original iteration of a product, and Monster Energy is no exception. With its widespread popularity and instantly recognizable logo, it certainly warrants a taste test, even if its flavor can be a bit elusive. Containing 160 milligrams of caffeine in the typical Monster size of 16 ounces, it's a powerful beverage; yet, it doesn't outstrip the majority of caffeinated drinks we've encountered, particularly considering the escalating levels of caffeine found in some recent offerings.

Rehab Monster represents another variant of the Monster Energy drink line, but with a twist: it's not carbonated. Most of the options, including the Wild Berry Tea, contain 160 milligrams of caffeine, while the Watermelon flavor comes in slightly lower at 150 milligrams, though both are in a 16-ounce container. These cans are more than just energy boosters; they offer electrolytes, a range of vitamins, and even a botanical boost. With such an ingredient list, this energy drink feels more akin to a supercharged tea than a conventional canned energy drink, offering a unique experience to its consumers.

This original tropical citrusy drink, available in two sizes, provides a varied caffeine kick depending on your needs. The standard 16-ounce can delivers 160 milligrams of caffeine, while the larger 24-ounce version packs a more substantial punch with 240 milligrams. Adding to its appeal, the 24-ounce variant features a resealable lid, ensuring your drink stays fresh if you prefer to enjoy it in stages. NOS promises not just a boost in physical energy but also claims to supercharge mental focus, positioning it as a comprehensive performance enhancer.

The original Rockstar energy drink 16-ounce drink packs a potent mix of B vitamins, guarana, taurine, and 160 milligrams of caffeine. While this provides a substantial energy boost, it's worth noting that the original version contains a hefty 127% of the recommended daily sugar intake. For those seeking to limit their sugar consumption, Rockstar also offers a sugar-free variant. This option provides all the energy-boosting benefits without the high-sugar content, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious consumers or those who simply prefer to avoid a sugar rush in a single beverage.

Rockstar also caters to the health-conscious and those with a penchant for superfoods with the Rockstar Recovery line. Available in flavors such as Orange, Lemonade, Pineapple Coconut, and Lemonade, these beverages offer a departure from the regular carbonated Rockstar drinks. With a more juice-like consistency and enhanced with ingredients like collagen and coconut water, the brand offers a different take on the energy drink concept. This line blends energy-boosting properties with elements of wellness and hydration all in 16 ounces.

For those who've savored a Mountain Dew and yearned for a bigger can and a bit more energy, Mountain Dew Amp is the perfect solution. The Amp is to the tune of 160 milligrams of caffeine in a 16-ounce can. This vibrant beverage is available in a Cherry Blast flavor alongside the original citrus variant. While the original flavor remains a beloved choice, the cherry version takes the experience a notch higher. It offers a delightfully juicy taste that bursts with a sweet, berry-like flavor, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your energy drink experience.

For loyal Starbucks patrons, the concept of entering a café and leaving with something other than a handcrafted beverage may seem outlandish. However, Starbucks has diversified its offerings and also provides bottled juice and energy drinks. The Starbucks Baya Energy line packs a substantial 170 milligrams of caffeine into a 12-ounce serving, delivering a robust caffeine hit. This ready-to-go energy boost is an appealing option for those who crave the convenience of a canned drink without sacrificing the Starbucks quality they know and love.

Reign offers an array of fruity and sweet flavors such as Peach, Orange, Kiwi, and Grape as part of its Reign Storm line of 12-ounce cans with 200 milligrams of caffeine. These drinks contain no sugar and are free from high-fructose corn syrup. They also said to support overall wellness with the inclusion of biotin and a variety of vitamins. The energy boost comes from natural ingredients like coffee beans and green tea extract, making these drinks not only tasty but also nutritionally conscious, offering a refreshing alternative for those who prefer natural sources of energy.

C4 energy drinks contain a potent combination of ingredients, including CarnoSyn Beta-Alanine, BetaPower Betaine, and 200 milligrams of caffeine in the 16-ounce serving, all of which are said to work together to create a powerfully energizing beverage. What sets C4 apart is its creative flavor offerings inspired by beloved candies, such as Skittles and Starburst. These sweet and nostalgic flavors are a delight for candy lovers, making this energy drink an appealing choice for those who want to combine a love of sweets with a significant energy boost.

Traditional energy drinks often adopt an ultra-masculine, high-intensity vibe, but Alani Nu provides a refreshing alternative with a softer appeal. These cans feature attractive designs, and their flavors offer a super fruity experience with options like Kiwi Guava and Breezeberry. Despite the gentler image, these drinks don't compromise on caffeine content, packing a potent 200 milligrams in a smaller size of 12 ounces, along with beneficial doses of vitamins B6 and B12. Alani Nu is a delightful choice for those who prefer their energy drinks to deliver both visual appeal and a strong caffeine kick.

Gatorade has long been a favorite for rehydrating during a workout or replenishing electrolytes on a hot day. If you've ever desired a bit more from your Gatorade, the Fast Twitch Energy drinks variant might just be what you're looking for. This resealable bottle comes packed with 200 milligrams of caffeine in a 12-ounce sports bottle, and with its non-carbonated finish, it bears a strong resemblance to a traditional Gatorade drink, albeit with an extra energy kick.

In moments when a standard cup of coffee doesn't cut it, Monster presents an alternative with Java Monster. This beverage is essentially a cold coffee, amplified with the addition of cream and sugar, delivering a strong yet delightful energy surge. Moreover, it's conveniently packaged in a can, perfect for on-the-go consumption. Java Monster comes in a variety of flavors to suit different coffee tastes. 

While most versions contain 150 milligrams of caffeine in 16 ounces, the Latte Cold Brew variant stands out with 300 milligrams, providing a substantial kick for those needing an extra energy boost. 

If you're familiar with the energy drink market and keep up with popular trends, there's a good chance you've come across Prime. This ultra-popular energy drink delivers a potent 200 milligrams of caffeine packed into a 12-ounce can, contains no sugar, and even provides a beneficial amount of electrolytes. Prime caters to a variety of taste preferences with several flavors available, including Ice Pop, Strawberry Watermelon, Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch, Orange Mango, and Lemon Lime.

With double the caffeine content of Celsius BCAA in the same 12-ounce can, the majority of the Celsius lineup packs a powerful punch. Containing 200 milligrams of caffeine, Celsius energy drinks come in an assortment of sparkling flavors. Additionally, there are a few tea-inspired options and even a cola flavor for those who prefer more traditional beverage tastes but still want something with a substantial amount of caffeine. These drinks also feature a green tea extract, vitamins C and B, chromium, ginger root, and guarana seed.

Ghost Energy is an energy drink that prides itself on offering "feel-good energy" with a transparent approach. Each can is packed with 200 milligrams of caffeine and is available in an array of unique flavors, including ones inspired by popular candies like Sour Patch and Warheads. This provides a fun and nostalgic twist to the energy drink experience. Each 16-ounce can of Ghost Energy is sugar-free, making it a great choice for enthusiasts to limit their sugar intake and still get a caffeine fix.

5-Hour Energy is quite different in the way it delivers an energy boost. Most of the 5-Hour Energy Drinks you'll find come in a very small amount of liquid. In fact, in just shy of two ounces, 5-Hour Energy delivers 200 milligrams of caffeine in the regular strength and 230 milligrams in the extra strength. The flavors are focused on fruity options with berry, grape, orange, pomegranate, strawberry lemonade, and watermelon completing the line of regular strength drinks. For energy seekers on the go who just don't have time to enjoy a beverage, this is a solid option.

Rockstar Punched is an ideal choice for those who enjoy their caffeine fix served with a vibrant, fruity twist. These energy drinks not only deliver a rich burst of flavor but also provide an impressive 240 milligrams of caffeine per 16-ounce can, catering to those who require a potent energy kick. The flavors are largely inspired by fruity profiles, including Peach, Fruit Punch, and even the alluring Berry Sangria, among other options.

With a name as controversial as "Cocaine," this energy drink certainly grabs attention. It also stands out for its high caffeine content with each can containing a substantial 280 milligrams in the rather small 12-ounce can. But Cocaine energy drink isn't just about stirring controversy and delivering a strong caffeine hit — it also offers a variety of unique flavors. These range from Spicy Hot to Peach and Mango, and even include a Cinnamon Cola, offering a distinctive, energetic boost with a provocative name.

Celsius provides a variety of energy drink ranges, with Celsius Heat standing at the top of its offerings in terms of caffeine content. These potent beverages deliver an impressive 300 milligrams of caffeine per 16-ounce serving, making them the most powerful energy drinks that the company produces. The flavors are distinctive, too, with offerings like Jackfruit and Inferno Punch. If you like the health-conscious approach to Celsius but need something that really delivers on the caffeine, this one is it.

Bang Energy offers another line of energy drinks with a hefty 300 milligrams of caffeine in the standard size of 16 ounces. Not only does this line boast a significant caffeine punch, but it also comes in a range of over forty intriguing flavors such as Blue and Yellow Limoncello, Wyldin' Watermelon, and Purple Haze. Customers are lucky these cans are still available after Bang energy drinks nearly failed, and can enjoy their energy boost without compromise: Bang Energy has zero sugar, calories, carbohydrates, artificial flavor, gluten, or animal-based products.

Boosting to the top of the caffeine ladder, Rockstar Xdurance makes its grand appearance. Packed with an impressive caffeine content in a 16-ounce can, this energy drink is the powerhouse of the Rockstar line. Don't let the energy surge fool you though, it also ensures you stay refreshed and replenished with an added mix of electrolytes and a zero-sugar formulation. The Blue Raz flavor tastes something like cotton candy for a sugary sweet option.

G-Fuel offers energy drinks in two different milligram amounts: 140 or 300 milligrams. There is quite a variety of flavors available for each of these levels of energy. With options as different as Vanilla Blue Raspberry and Lingonberry, the brand seems to cast a wide net to capture all tastes. No matter the flavor and caffeine content, you get the same 16-ounce size can. Even though anyone can drink G-Fuel, its marketing is directed heavily toward gamers.