How Much Caffeine Is in Matcha? (And How It Compares to Coffee)
Matcha is often described as a calmer alternative to coffee, but how much caffeine does it actually contain?
If you’re thinking about switching from coffee or simply want more balanced energy throughout the day, understanding matcha’s caffeine content can help you decide what works best for your routine.
It's also important to remember that not all matcha is created equal. The quality of the leaves, harvest and processing can influence both flavour and the overall drinking experience. Learn how to recognise high-quality matcha powder and what to look for when choosing a ceremonial matcha.
How Much Caffeine Is in Matcha?
On average 1 teaspoon (around 2g) of ceremonial matcha contains 60–70mg of caffeine.
For comparison:
- A standard cup of coffee contains 80–120mg of caffeine
- A single espresso contains 60–75mg
- Regular green tea contains 20–40mg
Matcha contains more caffeine than steeped green tea, but often slightly less than a full cup of coffee. However, the experience of drinking matcha feels very different.
Why Matcha Energy Feels Different to Coffee
Unlike coffee, matcha contains L-theanine, a naturally occurring amino acid found in high-quality Japanese green tea.
L-theanine works alongside caffeine to support:
- Calm focus
- Sustained energy
- Reduced jitteriness
- A smoother mental clarity
Instead of a sharp spike followed by a crash, matcha typically provides a more gradual and balanced lift. This is one of the main reasons many people replace their morning coffee with matcha.
Does Flavoured Matcha Contain the Same Caffeine?
Yes, flavoured matcha made with a ceremonial-grade base still contains caffeine.
At Maison Matcha, our:
are all crafted using ceremonial-grade matcha sourced from Uji, Japan, with no added sugar.
Because the base remains high quality, you still receive the same balanced energy and antioxidant benefits, simply with a subtle flavour twist.
Whether you prefer something fruity, creamy, or classic, flavoured matcha can offer the same caffeine profile as traditional ceremonial matcha.
Is Ceremonial Matcha Higher in Caffeine?
High-quality ceremonial matcha can naturally contain slightly higher caffeine and L-theanine levels compared to lower-grade matcha.
This is because:
- The entire leaf is consumed in powdered form
- Shade-growing increases amino acid content
- Younger leaves are more nutrient-dense
At Maison Matcha, our Ceremonial Original Matcha is made from first-harvest leaves sourced from Uji, Japan, offering smooth flavour and balanced energy without bitterness.
Choosing high-quality matcha ensures you’re getting both flavour and function. When comparing different matcha brands, factors such as origin, cultivar, harvest quality and colour can provide valuable clues about overall quality.
Matcha vs Coffee: Which Is Better?
It depends on what you’re looking for.
Choose coffee if you want a fast, intense caffeine hit.
Choose matcha if you prefer sustained energy, calm focus, a smoother daily ritual and less likelihood of an energy crash.
If you’d like a deeper comparison, read our blog on "Matcha vs Coffee: Which Is Better?"
Can You Drink Matcha Every Day?
Many people enjoy matcha daily as part of their routine.
Because of its balanced caffeine release and antioxidant content, it’s often chosen as a long-term alternative to coffee. As with any caffeinated beverage, moderation is important, but 1–2 servings per day is common for most adults.
Matcha contains a moderate amount of caffeine, enough to support focus and productivity, but often without the crash associated with coffee.
The key difference isn’t just the caffeine content, it’s how your body experiences it.
Whether you prefer the purity of Ceremonial Original Matcha or the smooth flavour of Strawberry, Vanilla, or Caramel Matcha, choosing a high-quality ceremonial base makes all the difference.
Related Matcha Guides
Want to learn more about ceremonial matcha?
Best Matcha Powder in Australia – Learn how to identify premium ceremonial matcha and what quality indicators to look for.
Best Matcha for Beginners – Discover how to choose a smooth, approachable matcha for everyday drinking.
Why Does Matcha Taste Bitter? – Understand how quality and preparation affect flavour.
Where to Buy Ceremonial Matcha Online in Australia – Tips for finding authentic Japanese matcha online.
FAQs
Does matcha have more caffeine than coffee?
Matcha typically contains slightly less caffeine than a standard cup of coffee, but more than regular green tea. However, the presence of L-theanine makes the energy feel smoother and more sustained.
Can I drink matcha in the afternoon?
Yes, but if you’re sensitive to caffeine, it’s best to avoid it late in the evening. Many people find matcha gentler than coffee.
How much matcha should I drink per day?
Most people enjoy 1–2 servings daily. As with any caffeinated drink, moderation is key.
Is flavoured matcha lower in caffeine?
Flavoured matcha made with a ceremonial-grade base contains similar caffeine levels to traditional matcha.
Explore the Maison Matcha range and find your daily ritual.