Drinks with 80mg of Caffeine: A Guide for Balanced Energy

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, up to 400mg of caffeine is a safe amount for most healthy adults to consume daily. For those seeking a moderate and controlled energy boost, it is helpful to know what drinks have 80mg of caffeine.

Quick Summary

This article explores popular beverages with approximately 80mg of caffeine, including specific energy drinks, teas, and coffee types. It provides a detailed comparison to help you choose the best option based on your preferences and health goals.

Key Points

• Red Bull is a reliable source: An 8.4-ounce can of Red Bull contains a standardized 80mg of caffeine, making it a consistent option for this specific dose.

• Alternative options are varied: You can also achieve approximately 80mg of caffeine with a moderate serving of instant coffee, a carefully brewed strong black tea, or a double shot of espresso.

• Consider the overall content: Energy drinks often contain high sugar and other additives, whereas coffee and tea provide a more natural source of caffeine, along with antioxidants.

• Brewing method matters: For coffee and tea, factors like steep time, bean type, and grind size will influence the final caffeine content, offering control over your intake.

• Matcha offers a concentrated dose: A single serving of matcha green tea powder can provide a caffeine level similar to black tea or a small coffee, and can approach the 80mg range depending on preparation.

• 80mg is a moderate level: This amount is considered balanced for most adults and is well below the recommended 400mg daily intake, helping to avoid potential side effects like jitters.

• Always read the label: Commercial beverages, especially energy drinks, can have different caffeine levels in various sizes and formulations, so checking the label is essential for accuracy.

Finding Beverages with an 80mg Caffeine Level

For many, a moderate dose of caffeine is the ideal way to boost alertness without the jitters associated with higher amounts. An 80mg caffeine serving is a common benchmark and can be found in several popular beverages. From energy drinks to home-brewed favorites, understanding your options allows for more intentional consumption.

Popular Energy Drinks with 80mg of Caffeine

While some energy drinks contain very high levels of caffeine, several brands offer standard sizes that provide approximately 80mg. This makes them a predictable option for a consistent energy lift.

Some common examples include:

• Red Bull: The classic 8.4-ounce can of Red Bull is widely known for containing 80mg of caffeine. This is a benchmark many other beverages are compared against.
• Red Bull Sugarfree: The sugar-free version of the standard Red Bull also contains 80mg of caffeine in its 8.4-ounce can, offering a no-sugar alternative.
• Rockstar Energy Drink: An 8-ounce serving of certain Rockstar varieties can also contain 80mg of caffeine. However, larger cans often have a higher caffeine content, so it is important to check the label.
• SoBe Adrenaline Rush: An 8.3-ounce can of this drink contains 79mg of caffeine, which is almost exactly the 80mg target.
• Bomb Energy Drink: Some 8.45-ounce cans of Bomb Energy are formulated to deliver 80mg of caffeine.

Coffees and Teas that Offer a Similar Boost

Energy drinks are not the only way to get a balanced caffeine boost. For those who prefer a more natural or less processed option, certain preparations of coffee and tea can also provide close to 80mg of caffeine.

• Small Brewed Coffee: An 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee can contain a wide range of caffeine, but some milder or light-roast versions can fall around 80mg. The final amount depends heavily on the bean type, grind size, and brewing method. A standard 8oz cup is often closer to 95mg, but the variability means an 80mg result is certainly possible.
• Instant Coffee: An 8-ounce cup of instant coffee typically contains between 30 and 90mg of caffeine, with a medium serving providing a dose very close to 80mg.
• Double Shot of Espresso: While espresso is potent per ounce, a standard double shot (approximately 2 ounces) can be a close match. Espresso shots can contain between 60mg and 100mg, with many falling right in the 80mg range.
• Black Tea: An 8-ounce cup of black tea can contain between 40 and 70mg of caffeine, though some stronger varieties brewed for longer periods can reach 80mg. The specific type of black tea and brewing time are key variables.
• Matcha Green Tea: While standard green tea is lower in caffeine, matcha is made from powdered tea leaves, meaning you consume the whole leaf. An average serving can contain between 35-88mg, with a carefully prepared cup falling in the 80mg range.

Comparison Table: 80mg Caffeine Drinks

Beverage Type	Serving Size	Approximate Caffeine (mg)	Notes	Potential Sugar Content
Red Bull (Original)	8.4 fl oz	80 mg	Contains sugar and other ingredients.	High
Red Bull (Sugarfree)	8.4 fl oz	80 mg	Contains artificial sweeteners.	Zero
Rockstar Energy	8.0 fl oz	80 mg	Check label, as larger sizes differ.	Varies by version
SoBe Adrenaline Rush	8.3 fl oz	79 mg	Extremely close to 80mg benchmark.	High
Standard Black Coffee	8 fl oz	~80-95 mg	Depends on bean, roast, and brew method.	Zero (unless added)
Standard Black Tea	8 fl oz	~40-80 mg	Depends on tea type and steeping time.	Zero (unless added)
Instant Coffee	8 fl oz	~60-80 mg	Varies by brand and amount used.	Zero (unless added)
Double Espresso Shot	~2 fl oz	~60-100 mg	Highly concentrated, with a variable average.	Zero
Matcha Green Tea	8 fl oz	~35-88+ mg	Consuming the whole leaf powder.	Zero (unless added)

Key Considerations for Your 80mg Choice

When selecting a beverage, it's about more than just the caffeine content. Here are some other factors to consider:

• Sugar Content: Many energy drinks are high in sugar, which can lead to a quick crash after the initial energy spike. Sugar-free or naturally caffeinated options like coffee and tea are better for sustained energy.
• Other Ingredients: Energy drinks often contain additional ingredients like taurine, B vitamins, and other stimulants. For those seeking just the caffeine effect, a simple coffee or tea might be preferable.
• Health and Sensitivity: Individual tolerance to caffeine varies. While 80mg is moderate, some people may still feel a significant effect. Monitoring your body's reaction is always recommended. For pregnant individuals, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggests a daily caffeine limit of 200mg, which would make two 80mg drinks an appropriate maximum.
• Brewing Variables: If you opt for coffee or tea, you have control over the final caffeine level. Steeping tea longer or brewing coffee stronger will increase the amount of caffeine extracted.
• Consistency: For those who need a precisely measured amount, a commercial energy drink like Red Bull is often the most reliable option due to standardized recipes. Homemade brews will always have some variability.

Conclusion: Finding the Right 80mg Source for You

Ultimately, the choice of what to drink to get 80mg of caffeine comes down to personal preference and health considerations. A standard 8.4-ounce can of Red Bull provides a reliable 80mg dose, but similar caffeine levels can be achieved with a carefully prepared cup of instant coffee, a double shot of espresso, or a strong black tea. By understanding the caffeine content of different beverages, you can make informed decisions to fuel your day with the balanced energy lift you desire. Prioritize your health and choose the option that best fits your lifestyle and nutritional needs.

Disclaimer: The caffeine contents listed here are averages and can vary. Always check product labels for the most accurate information. For medical advice, consult with a healthcare professional.

Authority Outbound Link: https://www.cspi.org/article/how-much-caffeine-coffee-tea-soda-and-other-foods - A link to the Center for Science in the Public Interest's caffeine chart, which is a relevant and reputable source for information on caffeine content in various beverages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 80mg of caffeine a lot?

80mg is a moderate amount of caffeine. It is less than a standard 8-ounce cup of regular brewed coffee, which is typically around 95mg, and significantly less than the 400mg daily limit recommended for most healthy adults.

Does an 8oz Red Bull actually have 80mg of caffeine?

Yes, the original 8.4-ounce can of Red Bull contains exactly 80mg of caffeine. This is a consistent and standardized amount that the company states on its product labeling.

How much caffeine is in a cup of black tea compared to 80mg?

The caffeine in an 8-ounce cup of black tea can range from 40 to 70mg on average, though a very strong brew could approach 80mg. This is generally less than the standard 80mg mark found in a Red Bull, but higher than green tea.

Can I get 80mg of caffeine from decaf coffee?

No, decaf coffee has had almost all of its caffeine removed. An 8-ounce cup typically contains only 2 to 15mg of caffeine, making it an unsuitable option for reaching the 80mg level.

Does steeping time affect the caffeine in tea?

Yes, steeping time is one of the main factors influencing the caffeine level in tea. The longer the tea leaves are steeped, the more caffeine is released into the water. Using hotter water also increases extraction.

Is it healthier to get 80mg from coffee or an energy drink?

For those seeking a healthier option, getting 80mg from coffee or tea is often preferred, as it avoids the high sugar content and artificial additives found in many energy drinks. These natural sources also contain beneficial antioxidants.

How much caffeine is in a typical espresso shot?

A single shot of espresso contains roughly 63mg of caffeine. A double shot, therefore, contains about 126mg, which is higher than the 80mg target. Some variations could bring a serving closer to 80mg, but a double is typically over this amount.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

Whether you opt for the convenience of a branded energy drink or the natural complexity of coffee or tea, knowing what drinks have 80mg of caffeine is the first step toward a more mindful and controlled intake. Understanding the nuances of each beverage, from sugar content to preparation methods, allows you to find the perfect solution for your daily energy needs. Consider your personal health goals and taste preferences to select the 80mg option that's best for you.

References

1. FDA (2024, August 28). Spilling the Beans: How Much Caffeine is Too Much? Retrieved October 10, 2025, from https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/spilling-beans-how-much-caffeine-too-much
2. iMOM. (n.d.). Caffeine Content of Energy Drinks and Other Beverages. Retrieved October 10, 2025, from https://www.imom.com/caffeine-content-of-energy-drinks-and-other-beverages/
3. Center for Science in the Public Interest. (2025, March 15). Caffeine Chart. Retrieved October 10, 2025, from https://www.cspi.org/caffeine-chart
4. Verywell Health. (2025, October 6). Coffee vs. Energy Drinks: Which Is the Healthier Source of Caffeine? Retrieved October 10, 2025, from https://www.verywellhealth.com/coffee-vs-energy-drinks-11824927
5. Red Bull. (n.d.). Red Bull Energy Drink with 80mg Caffeine plus Taurine & B Vitamins. Retrieved October 10, 2025, from https://www.amazon.com/Red-Bull-Energy-Drink-Pack/dp/B003PFPFIE
6. Sharetea. (2025, June 12). Does Black or Green Tea have more Caffeine? Retrieved October 10, 2025, from https://www.1992sharetea.com/news/does-black-or-green-tea-have-more-caffeine
7. About Coffee - NCA. (n.d.). Find Out How Much Caffeine is in Your Coffee Cup! Retrieved October 10, 2025, from https://prestocoffee.com/blogs/coffee/how-much-caffeine-is-in-coffee

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 80mg of caffeine a high dose?

No, 80mg of caffeine is considered a moderate dose. It is significantly less than the 400mg daily limit recommended for most healthy adults by the FDA. A standard 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee is typically closer to 95mg.

What is the caffeine content of a standard can of Red Bull?

A standard 8.4-ounce can of Red Bull contains 80mg of caffeine. This is the same amount found in the sugar-free version.

Does a double shot of espresso contain 80mg of caffeine?

No, a standard double shot of espresso typically contains more than 80mg of caffeine. The amount can vary, but many sources report it in the 120-130mg range, though some can be slightly lower or higher.

How can I get 80mg of caffeine from coffee at home?

An 8-ounce cup of instant coffee can provide a caffeine content of between 30 and 90mg, making it easy to achieve an approximately 80mg dose depending on the brand and how much you use. You can also experiment with brewing regular coffee with slightly weaker proportions.

Do all energy drinks have 80mg of caffeine?

No, energy drinks have a wide range of caffeine content, from low to very high. While brands like Red Bull and some Rockstar varieties offer a standard 80mg in a smaller serving, larger cans and other brands can contain 160mg, 200mg, or even more. Always check the label for accuracy.

Is there a type of green tea that has 80mg of caffeine?

Standard green tea usually contains less caffeine, but a serving of matcha green tea powder can contain up to 88mg or more. Since you consume the whole leaf, matcha provides a more concentrated and controllable dose of caffeine.

Does brewing time affect caffeine levels in black tea?

Yes, for black tea, the longer you steep the leaves in hot water, the more caffeine is extracted. A short steep may yield around 40mg, while a longer steep could result in a serving closer to 70-80mg.

Can I have multiple 80mg caffeine drinks in a day?

Yes, most healthy adults can have multiple 80mg drinks, as this would likely fall well within the 400mg daily recommended limit. However, individual caffeine tolerance varies, so it's best to listen to your body and spread your intake throughout the day.