If you’ve found yourself hovering between matcha and coffee, wondering which will earn your morning loyalty, you’re not alone. Both drinks have a passionate following and bring different benefits to the table. Whether you’re looking for a calmer energy boost or a bold flavour kickstart, here’s how matcha and coffee really compare.
Energy and caffeine content
Both coffee and matcha contain caffeine, but the experience is quite different.
Coffee usually hits faster and harder. One cup of coffee can contain 80–120mg of caffeine, giving you that sharp morning jolt that many of us crave. It’s quick to act but can also come with a crash if you’re sensitive to caffeine.
Matcha offers a gentler rise. A typical serve contains around 30–70mg of caffeine, depending on how it’s made. But it also includes L-theanine, an amino acid that slows the release of caffeine and may create a calmer, longer-lasting lift in energy.
Flavour and mouthfeel
Coffee has depth, complexity, and that unmistakable roasted punch. Whether you go for something rich and chocolatey or prefer fruity, floral notes, coffee is a sensory experience.
Matcha is more vegetal, with an earthy sweetness and a slightly grassy finish. It’s smooth and creamy when whisked properly, and some people love its mellow nature.
If bold and bitter is your thing, coffee wins. If you’re into subtle and smooth, matcha might be your match.
Antioxidants and wellness claims
Both matcha and coffee have antioxidant properties.
Matcha is especially high in catechins, particularly EGCG, which have been linked to heart health and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Coffee is rich in polyphenols and chlorogenic acids, which are also known for their antioxidant effects. There’s ongoing research into coffee’s links to reduced risk of certain diseases including Parkinson’s, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.
In short: both are good in moderation. It’s not a wellness contest. It’s about what suits your needs and your taste.
Ease of preparation
Coffee is quick, especially with a good home machine or plunger. And it’s versatile – espresso, long black, flat white, iced.
Matcha needs more equipment and attention. You need a good quality matcha powder, a bamboo whisk or frother, and a careful hand to avoid clumps.
If you want speed, coffee is easier. If you enjoy ritual, matcha might be your style.
So… which one wins?
It depends on what you want from your morning.
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Need a bold wake-up call? Coffee
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Want a slower, sustained lift? Matcha
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Love strong flavours? Coffee
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Prefer a gentle, earthy sip? Matcha
There’s no wrong choice here – just the one that suits your morning mood.
If coffee is still your go-to, make it a good one. At Essenza, we’re proud to offer small batch roasted beans, crafted in NZ and loved across the country. Whether you’re a long black loyalist or an iced latte kind of drinker, we’ve got the brew to earn your loyalty.
Ready to stock up? Shop our coffee range now and taste the difference.