Matcha vs coffee
Two popular sources of caffeine, but with very different effects. Find out which one suits you and your lifestyle best.
Matcha
The whole tea leaf, finely ground
Contains L-theanine
Matcha contains the amino acid L-theanine, which gives it its characteristic umami flavour.
Rich in catechins
Catechins such as EGCG are polyphenols found in high concentrations in matcha.
Caffeine + L-theanine
Matcha contains both caffeine and L-theanine — a combination unique to tea.
The whole tea leaf
You consume the whole tea leaf, giving maximum intake of nutrients.
Coffee
Brewed from ground beans
Quick pick-me-up
Gives an immediate energy boost when you need it fast.
Easy to prepare
Readily available and simple to prepare with modern equipment.
Well studied
Coffee is one of the world's most studied drinks, with a long tradition.
More affordable
Lower cost per cup, especially when prepared at home.
Detailed comparison
| Category | Matcha | Coffee |
|---|---|---|
Caffeine content Matcha has somewhat less caffeine than coffee | ~43–60 mg per cup (2 g) | ~95 mg per cup |
Energy effect Matcha also contains the amino acid L-theanine | Contains caffeine and L-theanine | Contains caffeine |
Antioxidants The whole tea leaf is consumed, giving a higher intake of catechins | About 3× more EGCG than regular green tea | Moderate content |
Effect on sleep Both contain caffeine and should be avoided late in the day | Somewhat less caffeine | Can affect sleep quality |
Dental health Matcha stains teeth less than coffee | May stain teeth mildly | Stains teeth more |
Gentle on the stomach Matcha is close to neutral; coffee is noticeably acidic | Generally milder (pH 6.0–7.0) | Can irritate the stomach (pH 4.5–5.5) |
Calories Both are very low in calories without additions | ~5 kcal per cup, no sugar/fat | ~2 kcal (black) |
Price per cup Quality matcha costs more per cup | Approx. NOK 15–30 | Approx. NOK 5–15 |
Preparation Traditional matcha requires special equipment | Takes a little practice | Easy with a machine |
The energy curve
See how energy levels change over time with matcha compared to coffee.
Illustration — individual experience may vary
What's the difference?
Matcha contains L-theanine in addition to caffeine — a combination unique to tea. Matcha also has somewhat lower caffeine content (about 43–60 mg per cup) compared to coffee (about 95 mg per cup).
See caffeine content per quality gradeWhen should you choose what?
Different situations call for different solutions. Here are our recommendations.
Morning routine
For exercise
Focused work
Quick energy boost
Afternoon/evening
Sensitive stomach
What is L-theanine?
L-theanine is an amino acid found almost exclusively in tea (Camellia sinensis). Matcha has especially high concentrations because shading before harvest raises the levels in the leaves.
L-theanine is what gives matcha its characteristic umami flavour. Coffee contains no L-theanine, which makes its flavour profile fundamentally different.
Facts about L-theanine:
- Found almost exclusively in the tea plant
- Gives matcha its characteristic umami flavour
- Increases when the tea plants are shaded
- S grade has 2–3× more L-theanine than D grade
- About 14–45 mg per gram of matcha, depending on quality
Ready to try matcha?
Experience the difference yourself. Start with our everyday matcha or go straight to premium quality for the ultimate experience.