Caffeine Content Guide

Updated April 2026Coffee guide

How Much Caffeine in Coffee?

Caffeine content varies widely. Here's what actually affects it.

Average Caffeine Content

  • Drip Coffee (8oz): 95mg
  • Espresso Shot (1oz): 63mg
  • Americano (8oz): 126mg (2 shots + water)
  • Latte/Cappuccino: 63-126mg (1-2 shots)
  • Cold Brew (8oz): 150-200mg (stronger)
  • Instant Coffee (8oz): 60-80mg
  • Decaf Coffee (8oz): 2-5mg

What Affects Caffeine?

Brewing Method: Longer contact time = more caffeine. Cold brew and French press extract more than espresso per ounce.

Roast Level: Light roasts have slightly MORE caffeine than dark roasts (about 7%). Dark roasting reduces bean mass slightly.

Coffee Type: Robusta has 2x the caffeine of Arabica (2.2% vs 1.2%).

Serving Size: 12oz coffee has more total caffeine than 1oz espresso, even though espresso is more concentrated.

Safe Limits

FDA says 400mg/day is safe for most adults (about 4 cups drip coffee).

Keep Going

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