Matcha vs Coffee?

Written by Jekaterina Rupota

When it comes to your daily energy boost, there’s a new battle brewing - Matcha vs Coffee! Both are go-to drinks for millions, but which one really gives you that perfect energy kick without making you crash? Let’s dive into this fun, friendly competition and see who comes out on top.

But wait, there's a twist! Scientists actually put matcha and coffee to the test in a real experiment to see which drink performs better. Keep reading to find out who the winner is!

Coffee is famous for that wake-up-now jolt of energy. You take a sip, and BAM—you feel more awake. That’s thanks to caffeine, which is super strong in coffee. But here’s the thing: once that high wears off, many people feel a crash. You know, that "I-need-a-nap" feeling around 3 p.m.

Matcha, on the other hand, has caffeine too, but it works a little differently. Matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that slows down the release of caffeine. So, instead of one big spike of energy, matcha gives you a steady, calm boost that lasts longer, with no crash later.

Science Experiment: In one study, researchers compared people drinking matcha and coffee. Those who had matcha reported feeling alert and calm for a longer time, while the coffee group got a quick burst but then felt tired afterward. Advantage? Matcha.

We all want to be sharp and focused, whether we’re in school, working, or gaming. Coffee does help you concentrate, but that focus can sometimes feel intense - like you’re too wired and jittery.

Matcha is different. Thanks again to that L-theanine, it keeps you focused, but also chill at the same time. It’s like having a superpower: you’re alert, but in a relaxed, clear-headed way.

Science says: Another study looked at brain function after drinking matcha or coffee. The matcha drinkers performed better on tasks that required attention and focus, without the jittery side effects that coffee drinkers experienced. Focus + chill? Matcha takes this round.

Health Benefits

We know coffee has some health perks, like antioxidants that are good for your heart. But matcha takes things up a notch. With matcha, you’re consuming the whole tea leaf (not just steeping it like regular tea), which means you get even more antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

Matcha is especially rich in a type of antioxidant called catechins, which help protect your cells from damage and can even support your immune system. Plus, it’s known to boost your metabolism, making it great for fitness enthusiasts.

Health win: While both drinks are healthy in their own way, matcha’s extra nutrients make it the healthier choice. Another point for matcha!

Taste and Versatility

Let’s be real—taste matters. Coffee is bold, bitter, and for some people, it’s an acquired taste (hello, sugar and cream!). But matcha has a lighter, more earthy flavour. Some describe it as slightly sweet, and it can be mixed with milk to create matcha lattes that are delicious and Instagram-worthy.

Plus, matcha is super versatile. You can add it to smoothies, bake it into cookies, or even use it in savoury dishes. Coffee? Not so much (coffee-flavoured cookies don’t sound as fun!).

Winner on taste: It depends on what you like, but if you're into trying new flavors and creative recipes, matcha is more versatile and fun.

And the Winner Is... Matcha!