Does Matcha Have Caffeine? How Much, Effects & Comparison to Coffee
Yes—matcha does contain caffeine. In fact, matcha contains more caffeine than most other green teas, but typically less than coffee. What makes matcha unique is how that caffeine affects your body.
Unlike coffee, matcha delivers caffeine more gradually, resulting in sustained energy without the sharp spikes and crashes many people experience from coffee.
How Much Caffeine Is in Matcha?
On average:
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) of matcha powder: ~60–70 mg of caffeine
- 1 cup of brewed coffee: ~90–120 mg of caffeine
- 1 cup of regular green tea: ~25–40 mg of caffeine
Because matcha is made from finely ground whole tea leaves, you consume the entire leaf—not just an infusion—leading to higher caffeine than steeped green tea.
Quick answer: Matcha contains caffeine—about 60–70 mg per teaspoon—less than coffee but more than regular green tea.
Why Matcha’s Caffeine Feels Different Than Coffee
Many people report that matcha provides calm, focused energy rather than jittery stimulation. This is due to its natural compounds and the way the body processes matcha.
L-Theanine (the key difference)
Matcha is rich in L-theanine, an amino acid that can:
- Promote calm alertness
- Slow caffeine absorption
- Reduce jitters for some people
This creates a smoother, longer-lasting energy curve—often lasting 4–6 hours, depending on the person and the serving size.
Slower Caffeine Release
Because matcha is digested gradually, caffeine may enter the bloodstream more slowly than coffee, which can feel steadier and less abrupt.
Balanced Stimulation
Matcha can support mental clarity and focus while feeling less overstimulating than stronger caffeinated drinks for many people.
Matcha vs Coffee: Caffeine Comparison
| Beverage | Average Caffeine | Typical Energy Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Matcha (1 tsp) | 60–70 mg | Calm, focused, sustained |
| Coffee (1 cup) | 90–120 mg | Fast, intense, may crash |
| Green tea | 25–40 mg | Mild, short-lived |
If you’re sensitive to caffeine or want energy without jitters, matcha is often a better fit than coffee.
Does Matcha Keep You Awake?
Yes—matcha can keep you awake, especially if consumed later in the day. While gentler than coffee, matcha’s caffeine can still affect sleep.
Best time to drink matcha:
- Morning
- Early afternoon (often before 2–3 PM)
If you’re caffeine-sensitive, consider using ½ teaspoon per serving to reduce caffeine while still enjoying matcha.
Does Matcha Have More Caffeine Than Green Tea?
Yes. Matcha often contains 2–3× more caffeine than regular green tea because:
- You ingest the entire tea leaf
- Matcha is made from shade-grown leaves, which can naturally increase caffeine
Does Matcha Have Less Caffeine Than Coffee?
In most cases, yes. Matcha generally contains less caffeine than coffee, but its effects can feel longer-lasting due to steady release.
This is one reason matcha is popular among people switching away from coffee.
Does the Quality of Matcha Affect Caffeine?
Yes. Matcha can vary by cultivar, shading, harvest, and grade. In general, higher-quality matcha may contain:
- More caffeine
- More L-theanine
- Smoother flavour and brighter colour
Premium Japanese matcha is often shade-grown and carefully processed, which can contribute to a more balanced taste and energy experience.
If you want a reliable option to try, you can see our Shizuoka Premium Matcha.
Who Should Be Careful With Matcha Caffeine?
You may want to moderate matcha intake if you:
- Are sensitive to caffeine
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding (ask your healthcare provider about safe caffeine limits)
- Experience anxiety with stimulants
- Have sleep issues
Smaller servings can still provide flavour and benefits without as much caffeine.
Final Answer: Does Matcha Have Caffeine?
Yes—matcha contains caffeine, typically around 60–70 mg per teaspoon. Thanks to L-theanine, many people find matcha provides steady, calm energy rather than the sharp highs and crashes associated with coffee.