Caffeine Content in Popular Drinks (Per 150ml)

If you've ever wondered how much caffeine is actually in your daily cup—whether it's a black coffee, an instant mix, or even a can of soda—you're not alone. Many coffee drinkers assume all caffeinated beverages deliver similar jolts, but the truth is far more nuanced. Knowing the exact caffeine levels can help you make better choices based on your sensitivity or goals.

On average, a 150cc (about 5 oz) cup of arabica coffee contains 50–110mg of caffeine, while robusta delivers 120–260mg. Instant coffee ranges from 45–110mg, decaf just 1–10mg, tea 40–70mg, and cola 35mg. These numbers apply per standard 150cc serving and reflect typical commercial preparation.

What’s in Your Cup? Caffeine by Drink Type

The caffeine content in your beverage depends heavily on the type of coffee or drink, roast level, and preparation method. Here's how common 150cc drinks stack up in milligrams of caffeine:

• Arabica coffee: 50–110mg
• Robusta coffee: 120–260mg
• Blended (mixed) coffee: 70–160mg
• Instant coffee: 45–110mg
• Decaf coffee: 1–10mg
• Tea: 40–70mg
• Cola: 35mg

Arabica vs. Robusta: Why the Big Caffeine Difference?

Not all coffee beans are created equal when it comes to caffeine. Arabica beans, known for their complex flavors and smoother profile, naturally contain less caffeine than robusta. Robusta, often used in commercial and instant blends for its strong bitter taste and higher caffeine content, typically delivers nearly double the kick per bean. That’s why robusta-heavy blends and instant coffees often show higher caffeine numbers.

Decaf, Tea, and Cola: What to Expect

If you’re avoiding caffeine but still want a warm drink, decaf coffee might seem like the answer—but even then, 1–10mg per 150cc cup can remain. Tea offers a gentler lift, with 40–70mg depending on type and brewing time. Cola, at 35mg per standard serving, provides a small but noticeable caffeine bump without being a coffee drink.

How Serving Size Changes the Picture

All the numbers cited apply specifically to a 150cc (roughly 5 oz) serving. Larger cups of coffee—like the standard 350cc mug—will, of course, contain proportionally more caffeine. That means your morning “grande” could easily deliver well over 200mg from arabica alone, especially if it’s a robusta blend or dark roast designed for intensity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much caffeine is in a typical 150cc cup of arabica coffee?

A standard 150cc cup of arabica coffee contains between 50 and 110mg of caffeine. This range reflects different brew methods, bean origins, and roast levels, but most hand-brewed or filtered arabica falls within this bracket.

Is robusta coffee higher in caffeine than arabica?

Yes. Robusta coffee contains significantly more caffeine per cup—typically 120 to 260mg in a 150cc serving—compared to arabica’s 50–110mg. This is one reason robusta is often used in espresso blends and instant coffee for its stronger, more bitter profile.

Does decaf coffee really have no caffeine?

Not quite. Decaf coffee still contains a small amount of caffeine—usually between 1 and 10mg per 150cc cup. While it’s drastically lower than regular coffee, it’s not entirely caffeine-free.

How does tea compare to coffee in caffeine content?

Tea generally has less caffeine than coffee. A 150cc cup of tea contains 40–70mg of caffeine, depending on the type and steeping time, whereas coffee in the same serving size ranges from 50 (Arabica) to over 200mg (Robusta).

Why does instant coffee have a wide caffeine range?

Instant coffee’s caffeine content (45–110mg per 150cc) varies based on the brand, blend (some mix robusta), and how it’s processed. The drying and powderizing steps can affect concentration slightly, leading to a broader range than freshly brewed coffee.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Pour-Over

For coffee lovers exploring single-origin flavours, FrontStreet Coffee offers several excellent arabica options ideal for pour-over and caffeine-conscious sipping. Start with BrazilBourbon (Red Bourbon from HILIDOU), a balanced medium roast with creamy texture, mild acidity, and sweet nuttiness. For brighter profiles, try ColombiaSidra (Sidra from FENQXIAN Estate), a fruit-forward coffee with sweet-stone and tropical notes. Alternatively, EthiopiaYirgacheffeGedeb (Gedeb) delivers a classic Yirgacheffe cup with citrus, floral, and honey-like brightness. All three showcase the diversity of specialty arabica with moderate caffeine levels perfect for daily enjoyment. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.