Ultimate Energy Drink Guide 2024 [61 Energy Drinks Compared and Reviewed]

In this comprehensive energy drink guide, you’ll find over 60 energy drinks.

You’ll discover all the important stuff like:

• comparisons
• ingredients
• stats
• customer reviews

And more.

🥤 Did you know? According to Statista, energy drinks generated over $14 billion in 2021.

Energy drinks are enjoyed by millions of people.

People are looking for anything from a little extra kick in the ass…

All the way up to a shocking jolt that makes them think they’ll never come back to this dimension. ⚡⚡

Energy drinks appeal to:

✅ athletes

✅ students

✅ workaholics

✅ bodybuilders

✅ busy moms and dads

And many more.

This energy drink guide will answer burning questions such as:

❓Do energy drinks work?

❓ What is the best energy drink?

❓What energy drink has the most caffeine?

You’ll discover answers to all of these and more.

But first, here are a few terms you should be familiar with before diving into this energy drink guide:

Green coffee beans	Green coffee beans are unroasted beans which may contain slightly more caffeine than roasted beans. They have a milder flavor similar to tea, and contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Guarana	Guarana is an Amazonian fruit that is not only high in caffeine, but also contains antioxidant properties. Guarana is thought to have additional stimulant qualities.
Taurine	Some studies suggest that taurine combined with caffeine improves mental performance. It is also said to lower blood pressure and calm the nervous system.
Nootropics	Studies show that nootropics are cognitive enhancers that can boost brain performance.
BCAAs	Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) include valine, leucine, and isoleucine. They are said to aid in muscle protein synthesis.
Electrolytes	Electrolytes are essential minerals that help your body regulate chemical reactions and help you stay hydrated.

So let’s answer a few questions and then get into these energy drink comparisons.

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📌 Do energy drinks work?

Simply put, yes.

In our experience, energy drinks work.

They’re designed to boost your mental and physical performance.

In almost every energy drink, you’ll find caffeine.

And, depending on the energy drink, you’ll find things like B vitamins, taurine and nootropics to enhance your mind and body.

So depending on the energy drink, you’ll get different levels of stimulation.

Luckily, our energy drink guide gives you a simple breakdown.

📌 What’s the best energy drink?

It all depends on what you’re looking for:

If you’re looking for a caffeine jolt, you may want to try an energy drink with a high caffeine content like Bang (300mg) or Redcon1 FUBAR (400mg).

But if you’re looking for an energy drink that also contains nootropics or other brain boosters, you may want to try Rowdy Energy or Jocko GO.

And if you’re looking for both high caffeine and nootropics, it might be worth trying something like Bucked Up.

📌 How much caffeine is in energy drinks?

It all depends on which energy drink you choose.

For example, there are some energy drinks with 100mg of caffeine or less like Red Bull (8.4 ounce), Aspire Healthy Energy and V8 Sparkling Energy.

Then there are energy drinks with around 200mg of caffeine like C4, Ghost Energy and Rockstar.

And then there are energy drinks with a high 300mg of caffeine like Bang, Bucked Up and G Fuel.

Plus there’s everything in between.

📌 Which energy drink has the most caffeine?

Some energy drinks with the highest caffeine content include:

✅ Bang

✅ G Fuel

✅ Reign

✅ Bucked Up

✅ Raze

And more.

Each of these energy drinks have approximately 300mg of caffeine per serving.

📌 What’s better: energy drinks vs coffee?

You might be wondering why you would drink an energy drink when you can just drink coffee.

For starters, energy drinks often times have more caffeine than a cup of coffee, giving you that extra jolt.

In addition, energy drinks may contain mind and body stimulants like B vitamins, taurine and nootropics.

And some people just don’t like the bitter taste of coffee.

So if you’re looking for that extra boost, energy drinks might be the way to go.

But if you just want a little bit of a caffeine buzz?

Coffee may work for you.

This list is organized into the following categories:

🔥 Popular energy drinks

🔥 Energy shots

🔥 Sugar free energy drinks

🔥 Organic energy drinks

🔥 Vegan energy drinks

🔥 Miscellaneous energy drinks

🔥 Yerba mate energy drinks

Best popular energy drinks

In this segment, you’ll discover some of the most popular energy drinks.

Best popular energy drinks at a glance:

	Caffeine	Calories	Sugar	Taurine	B Vitamins	Flavors	Ounces per serving	Cost per can
Bang	250-300mg	0	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	16	$1.83
C4	200mg	0	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	16	$2.75
Full Throttle	160mg	220	58g	❌	✅	Multiple	16	$2.72
G Fuel	300mg	0	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	16	$2.08
Ghost Energy	200mg	5	0g	✅	✅	Multiple	16	$2.50
Monster	160mg	0-110	0-54g	✅	✅	Multiple	8-16	$1.67
Mountain Dew Energy	180mg	25	3g	❌	✅	Multiple	16	$2.08
NOS	160mg	210	53g	✅	✅	Multiple	8	$1.58
Red Bull	80mg-136mg	0-212	0-50g	✅	✅	Multiple	8.4-16	$1.56-3.27
Reign	300mg	10	0	❌	✅	Multiple	16	$2.17
Rockstar	160-300mg	0-270	0-63g	✅	✅	Multiple	12-16	$1.25-1.67

Caffeine	250-300mg
Calories	0
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$1.83

What rocked us about this energy drink:

We love trying new things over here at Rack and Stack.

And with over 40 flavors available, Bang has the competition beat.

These flavors taste great, there’s no sugar, and there’s a buttload of caffeine.

Bang: Final Verdict

Bang is one of our favorite energy drinks because it packs a caffeine punch, is sugar free and comes in over 40 flavors.

Caffeine	200mg
Calories	0
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$2.75

What rocked us about this energy drink:

While there aren’t as many flavors as Bang, the flavor of C4 gives Bang a run for its money.

C4 is our go-to when we want a caffeine jolt but don’t want to go overboard.

200mg of caffeine seems to be that sweet spot to get us moving, but without the jitters.

C4: Final Verdict

Like BANG, C4 has some fun flavor options including Starburst and Skittles.

But there is 100mg less caffeine in C4, making it ideal for those who aren’t looking for a caffeine overload.

Caffeine	160mg
Calories	220
Sugar	58g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$2.72

What rocked us about this energy drink:

Full Throttle is delicious and crazy sweet.

And it doesn’t have that energy drink aftertaste.

Full Throttle: Final Verdict

Full Throttle has the same caffeine content as Monster, but has more sugar at 58 grams.

This is more than double the recommended added-sugar limit of 24 grams, so is probably not ideal for long term consumption.

Caffeine	300mg
Calories	0
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$2.08

G Fuel: Final Verdict

Like BANG, G Fuel contains 300mg of caffeine.

What we really like about G Fuel is their pop culture branding.

Feel like a kid and get jacked all at once!

Caffeine	200mg
Calories	5
Sugar	0g
Taurine	✅
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$2.50

What rocked us about this energy drink:

Ghost Energy is probably the best tasting energy drink we’ve ever put in our mouths.

Ghost Energy: Final Verdict

We think Ghost Energy is on par with C4, with enough caffeine to get you jazzed without giving you the jitters.

They both have healthy competition when it comes to fun flavors to try.

Caffeine	160mg
Calories	0-110
Sugar	0-54g
Taurine	Sometimes
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	8-16
Cost	$1.67

What we like about this energy drink:

We love the carbonation factor of this drink!

The bubbles are big and make it fun to drink.

Monster: Final Verdict

Original Monster has 4g less sugar than Full Throttle.

If you’re trying to be health conscious, opt for their low carb or sugar free options.

Caffeine	180mg
Calories	25
Sugar	3g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$2.08

Mountain Dew Energy: Final Verdict

Mountain Dew Energy can be a good low sugar option with a moderate amount of caffeine.

Caffeine	160mg per can
Calories	210 per can
Sugar	53g per can
Taurine	✅
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	8 (2 servings per can)
Cost	$.79 per serving ($1.58 per can)

What rocked us about this energy drink:

It’s not a total caffeine blast but still got us jacked up and ready to go.

NOS: Final Verdict

NOS has a relatively moderate amount of caffeine at 80g per serving.

But keep in mind that there are 2 servings in a can.

In other words, the whole can has 160mg of caffeine.

Caffeine	80mg-136mg
Calories	0-212
Sugar	0-50g
Taurine	✅
B Vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	8.4-16
Cost	$1.56-3.27

What rocked us about this energy drink:

What can we say about Red Bull other than it totally rocks?

And it gave us wiiiiiiiiings.

We drink the sugar free variety and it gives us sustained energy and focus.

Red Bull: Final Verdict

Red Bull comes in various serving sizes.

So when it comes to caffeine, taurine and sugar, you have plenty of options.

Caffeine	300mg
Calories	10
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$2.17

Reign: Final Verdict

Like A Shoc, Reign has the added benefit of electrolytes and BCAAs.

But Reign has more flavors available such as Strawberry Sublime and Reignbow Sherbet.

Caffeine	160-300mg
Calories	0-270
Sugar	0-63g
Taurine	✅
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12-16
Cost	$1.25-1.67

Rockstar: Final Verdict

Rockstar contains up to a teeth-shattering 63g of sugar per serving.

But thankfully they have sugar free options as well.

That wraps it up for some of the most popular energy drinks.

Now, let’s move onto…

Best energy shots

Energy shots might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to energy drinks.

But we couldn’t leave out these small yet powerful players in the world of energy supplements.

Best energy shots at a glance

	Caffeine	Calories	Sugar	Taurine	B vitamins	Flavors	Ounces per serving	Cost
5 Hour Energy	200-230mg	4	0g	✅	✅	Multiple	1.93	$2.26
Bang Energy Shots	300mg	6	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	3	$1.75
Ethan’s Clean Energy	150mg	30	3g	❌	✅	Multiple	2	$3.25
Redcon1 Fubar Energy	400mg	0	0g	✅	✅	Multiple	3	$2.50
Woke Up!	225mg	10	0g	❌	✅	Berry	1.93	$2.92

Caffeine	200-230mg
Calories	4
Sugar	0g
Taurine	✅
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	1.93
Cost	$2.26

What rocked us about this energy drink:

5-Hour Energy gives us focus like no other.

It also gives a crazy short-term burst of energy from the B vitamins.

5 Hour Energy: Final Verdict

We love 5 Hour Energy over at Rack and Stack.

Just a half bottle of Regular Strength gets us going for hours on end.

Caffeine	300mg
Calories	6
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	3
Cost	$1.75

Bang Energy Shots: Final Verdict

Like a full size BANG energy drink, these tasty little shots are carbonated and contain 300mg of caffeine.

These are great for BANG lovers who are on the go and need a quick pick-me-up.

Caffeine	150mg
Calories	30
Sugar	3g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	2
Cost	$3.25

Ethan’s Clean Energy: Final Verdict

This has the lowest caffeine content of any energy shot on our list.

It’s also the only organic shot we could find.

Caffeine	400mg
Calories	0
Sugar	0g
Taurine	✅
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	3
Cost	$2.50

What rocked us about this energy drink:

Redcon1 FUBAR is NOT for little league players.

With 400mg of caffeine, we love this on days when we’re dragging ass and REALLY need to get going.

Redcon1 FUBAR: Final Verdict

Redcon1 FUBAR has an insane amount of caffeine that got us jacked.

⚠️ Redcon1 recommends you assess your tolerance level before slamming one of these.

Caffeine	225mg
Calories	10
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Berry
Ounces per serving	1.93
Cost	$2.92

Woke Up!: Final Verdict

Woke Up! is vegan and gluten free.

It’s the only energy shot on our list that gets its caffeine from yerba mate and guarana seed extract.

Energy shots not your thing?

Let’s check out the best sugar free energy drinks.

Best sugar free energy drinks

As you may have noticed, many energy drinks are packed with tons of useless sugar.

If you’re looking for flavor while avoiding the negative effects of sugary drinks, we’ve got you covered.

Check out this list of the best sugar free energy drinks we could find.

Best sugar free energy drinks at a glance

	Caffeine	Calories	Sugar	Taurine	B vitamins	Flavors	Ounces per serving	Cost
3D Energy	200mg	15	0g	✅	✅	Multiple	16	$2.08
A Shoc	300mg	10	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	16	$3.21
Alani Nu	200mg	10	0g	✅	✅	Multiple	12	$2.66
Bang (reviewed above)	300mg	0	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	16	$1.83
Beyond Raw Lit	250mg	20	0g	❌	❌	2	16	$2.50
Bucked Up	300mg	0	0g	✅	✅	Multiple	16	$3.75
C4 (reviewed above)	200mg	0	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	16	$2.75
C4 Energy Non-Carbonated	200mg	0	0g	✅	✅	Multiple	12	$2.50
G Fuel (reviewed above)	300mg	0	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	16	$2.08
Ghost Energy (reviewed above)	200mg	5	0g	✅	✅	Multiple	16	$2.50
Jocko GO	95mg	5	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	12	$2.92
Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy	100mg	5	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	12	$2.50
Raze	300mg	0	0g	✅	✅	Multiple	16	$2.50
Rowdy Energy	160mg	5	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	16	$2.91
Solimo Energy Drink	152mg	10	0g	✅	✅	2	16	$1.16
UPTIME	142mg	5	0g	❌	❌	Multiple	12	$2.67
VPX Redline Xtreme	158mg	0	0g	❌	❌	Multiple	4	$2.41 per 8 oz bottle
XYIENCE Energy Drink	176mg	0	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	16	$2.04
ZOA	160mg	15	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	12-16	$2.50

Caffeine	200mg
Calories	15
Sugar	0g
Taurine	✅
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$2.08

3D Energy: Final Verdict

3D is one of the few energy drinks containing ginseng, a natural way to boost energy.

It also doesn’t blast you with too much caffeine.

Caffeine	300mg
Calories	10
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$3.21

A Shoc: Final Verdict

Like Bang, A Shoc contains 300mg of caffeine.

But A Shoc comes out ahead with electrolytes.

Caffeine	200mg
Calories	10
Sugar	0g
Taurine	✅
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.66

What rocked us about this energy drink:

The Cosmic Stardust with the biotin boost made us feel beautiful.

Alani Nu: Final Verdict

Alani Nu is not your typical energy drink.

It contains stress relievers and ingredients to make your skin glow.

It’s for the beautiful people that don’t want to be strung out on energy drinks.

Caffeine	250mg
Calories	20
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B Vitamins	❌
Flavors	2
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$2.50

What rocked us about this drink:

Unlike other energy drinks, Beyond Raw Lit is better suited as a pre-workout beverage.

I drank it before my workout and it had similar effects to Redcon1 Total War.

Beyond Raw Lit: Final Verdict

The peat and apple extract is a unique touch.

Caffeine	300mg
Calories	0
Sugar	0g
Taurine	✅
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$3.75

What rocked us about this energy drink:

Similar to Bang, Bucked Up gave me that caffeine-packed punch with hours of sustained energy.

Bucked Up: Final Verdict

Like A Shoc, Bucked Up contains 300mg of caffeine.

But here you’ll also find cognitive enhancers.

Caffeine	200mg
Calories	0
Sugar	0g
Taurine	Some varieties
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.50

C4 Energy Non-Carbonated: Final Verdict

C4 Energy Non-Carbonated is one of the few non-carbonated energy drinks on the market.

Caffeine	95mg
Calories	5
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.92

Jocko Go: Final Verdict

With only 95mg of caffeine per serving, Jocko GO has one of the lightest caffeine contents of any energy drink on our list.

Caffeine	100mg
Calories	5
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.50

Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy: Final Verdict

Like Jocko GO, Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy has a relatively light caffeine content.

While Jocko GO has 95mg per serving, Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy has slightly more at 100mg per serving.

But this also contains amino acids.

Caffeine	300mg
Calories	0
Sugar	0g
Taurine	✅
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$2.50

Raze: Final Verdict

Raze is comparable to Reign because both contain BCAAs.

But Raze does not contain any sugar.

Caffeine	160mg
Calories	5
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$2.91

What rocked us about this energy drink:

Rowdy Energy has a little less caffeine than some of the other energy drinks we’re used to.

So it’s a nice ease into a boost of energy instead of a 5-alarm caffeine jolt.

Rowdy Energy Drink: Final Verdict

Like Jocko GO, Rowdy Energy contains nootropics and doesn’t have any preservatives.

But Rowdy contains natural caffeine.

Caffeine	152mg
Calories	10
Sugars	0g
Taurine	✅
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	2
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$1.16

Solimo Energy Drink: Final Verdict

Solimo contains ginseng like 3D Energy and guarana from Woke Up!.

It also contains a similar caffeine content to Monster.

In our opinion, Solimo competes well with some of the more expensive brands on the market.

Caffeine	142mg
Calories	5
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	❌
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.67

What rocked us about this drink:

The drink was clear and crisp with no funky aftertaste.

It wasn’t bogged down with caffeine so it was a gentler energy drink.

Uptime: Final Verdict

As we mentioned, UPTIME is one of the few energy drinks aside from VPX Redline Xtreme that doesn’t contain B vitamins.

This can be ideal for those that are trying to avoid that vitamin energy rush.

Caffeine	158mg
Calories	0
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	❌
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	4
Cost	$2.41 per 8oz bottle

VPX Redline Xtreme: Final Verdict

Like UPTIME, VPX Redline Xtreme doesn’t contain B vitamins.

This can be ideal for those who want to avoid that vitamin rush.

But it is also packed with electrolytes and BCAAs.

Caffeine	176mg
Calories	0
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$2.04

XYIENCE: Final Verdict

XYIENCE has similar caffeine content to Solimo Energy Drink.

But XYIENCE has all natural flavors and colors.

Caffeine	160mg
Calories	15
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12-16
Cost	$2.50

ZOA: Final Verdict

In addition to BCAAs, ZOA energy drinks contain antioxidants and Vitamin C for immune support.

Sugar free energy drinks not quite cutting it?

Let’s turn up the heat and check out these best organic energy drinks.

Best organic energy drinks

If you like to stick close to nature and only put organic foods in your body, we’ve got you covered.

Here are a few of the best organic energy drinks we could find.

Best organic energy drinks at a glance

	Caffeine	Calories	Sugar	Taurine	B vitamins	Flavors	Ounces per serving	Cost
Dark Dog	114mg	130	30g	❌	❌	Multiple	12	$2.49
GURU	100-142mg	20-80	3-21g	❌	❌	Multiple	8.4	$1.91
NOOMA	120mg	15	2g	❌	❌	Multiple	12	$3.08
Remedy Good Energy	60mg	5	0g	❌	❌	Blackberry	8.5	$1.83
Rockstar Organic	160mg	190	46g	❌	❌	Island Fruit	15	$2.98
RUNA Clean Energy	105mg	10	1g	❌	❌	Multiple	8.4	$1.58

Caffeine	114mg
Calories	130
Sugar	30g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	❌
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.49

Dark Dog: Final Verdict

This organic energy drink is high in antioxidants and Vitamin C, both of which are linked to immune support.

Caffeine	100-142mg
Calories	20-80
Sugar	3-21g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	❌
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	8.4
Cost	$1.91

GURU: Final Verdict

Like Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy, GURU contains a relatively low amount of caffeine at 100mg per serving.

But GURU contains all organic ingredients.

Caffeine	120mg
Calories	15
Sugar	2g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	❌
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$3.08

NOOMA: Final Verdict

With only 2 grams of naturally occurring sugar and all organic ingredients, NOOMA is one of our favorite organic energy drinks.

Caffeine	60mg
Calories	5
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	❌
Flavors	Blackberry
Ounces per serving	8.5
Cost	$1.83

Remedy Good Energy: Final Verdict

Remedy Good Energy is the only energy drink on our list that is made of kombucha.

Caffeine	160mg
Calories	190
Sugar	46g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	❌
Flavors	Island Fruit
Ounces per serving	15
Cost	$2.98

What rocked us about this energy drink:

Simply put, that Island Fruit had us doing the mambo from sunup to sundown.

Rockstar Organic: Final Verdict

While Rockstar Organic does have a high sugar content, we still love the taste.

Caffeine	105mg
Calories	10
Sugar	1g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	❌
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	8.4
Cost	$1.58

RUNA Clean Energy: Final Verdict

RUNA Clean Energy is unique from other energy drinks because its main source of caffeine is guayasa, making it taste more like a tea.

Now let’s take a look at vegan energy drinks.

Best vegan energy drinks

Here’s our list of some of the best vegan energy drinks we could find.

Best vegan energy drinks at a glance

	Caffeine	Calories	Sugar	Taurine	B vitamins	Flavors	Ounces per serving	Cost
Aspire Healthy Energy	80mg	0	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	12	$2.08
CELSIUS	200mg	10	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	12	$1.60
FEEL Natural Energy	120mg	0	0g	❌	❌	Multiple	12	$2.50
Ghost Energy (reviewed above)	200mg	5	0g	✅	✅	Multiple	16	$2.50
G.O.A.T. Fuel	200mg	10	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	12	$2.85
Kill Cliff Ignite	150mg	25	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	12	$2.67
LGND	Unknown	30	5g	❌	✅	2	12	$2.50
neuroSONIC	100mg	35	9g	❌	✅	Multiple	14.5	$2.17
NOCCO	180mg	12	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	12	$2.67
Oca Plant-Based Energy Drink	120mg	60	9g	❌	❌	Multiple	12	$2.50
RIOT Energy	160mg	25-35	4g	❌	✅	Multiple	16	$2.83
Sambazon Organic Amazon Energy	120-150mg	35-120	6-29g	❌	❌	Multiple	12	$2.20
Zevia Energy	120mg	0	0g	❌	❌	Multiple	12	$2.10

Caffeine	80mg
Calories	0
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.08

Aspire Healthy Energy: Final Verdict

Aspire Healthy Energy has plenty of natural ingredients.

So while it’s not organic, it can be a healthier option than many energy drinks on our list.

Caffeine	200mg
Calories	10
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$1.60

CELSIUS: Final Verdict

Like FEEL Natural Energy, CELSIUS is a sparkling energy drink.

But this has about 80mg more caffeine per serving for those looking for that extra kick.

Caffeine	120mg
Calories	0
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	❌
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.50

FEEL Natural Energy: Final Verdict

FEEL Natural Energy has a robust blend of natural ingredients that may also aid in boosting your immunity.

Caffeine	200mg
Calories	10
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.85

G.O.A.T. Fuel: Final Verdict

G.O.A.T. Fuel is the only energy drink on our list that contains the potentially inflammation fighting properties of cordyceps mushrooms.

Caffeine	150mg
Calories	25
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.67

Kill Cliff Ignite: Final Verdict

Kill Cliff Ignite is similar to Ethan’s Clean Energy in caffeine and calorie content.

But some say Kill Cliff Ignite tastes a little better.

Caffeine	Unknown
Calories	30
Sugar	5g
Taurine	✅
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Spicy Ginger, Ginger & Grapefruit
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.50

LGND: Final Verdict

Like Bucked Up, LGND contains nootropics.

But LGND is vegan-friendly.

Caffeine	100mg
Calories	35
Sugar	9g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	14.5
Cost	$2.17

neuroSONIC: Final Verdict

Like Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy, neuroSONIC contains 100mg of caffeine.

But this energy drink is vegan-friendly.

Caffeine	180mg
Calories	12
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.67

NOCCO: Final Verdict

Like Alani Nu, NOCCO contains biotin which may make your skin glow.

But NOCCO contains 20mg less caffeine than Alani Nu.

Caffeine	120mg
Calories	60
Sugar	9g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	❌
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.50

OCA: Final Verdict

Like GURU Organic Energy, Oca is both organic and vegan.

While their stats are similar, GURU has a smaller serving size at 8.4 ounces.

Caffeine	160mg
Calories	25-35
Sugar	4g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$2.83

RIOT Energy: Final Verdict

Like XYIENCE, RIOT Energy contains the nootropic L-theanine.

But XYIENCE has a little more caffeine at 176mg per serving.

Caffeine	120-150mg
Calories	35-120
Sugar	6-29g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	❌
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.20

Sambazon: Final Verdict

Like Oca Plant-Based Energy Drink, Sambazon is organic and vegan.

But Oca has less sugar than some of Sambazon’s flavors.

Caffeine	120mg
Calories	0
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	❌
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.10

Zevia Energy: Final Verdict

Like NOOMA, Zevia Energy contains 120mg of caffeine.

But Zevia Energy is a little easier on the wallet.

Now let’s dive into the mish mash of our energy drink guide.

Best miscellaneous energy drinks

These energy drinks don’t really fall into a particular category.

Some have sugar, some are vegan.

Others are seltzer or made from honey.

This section of energy drinks has a bit of everything.

Best miscellaneous energy drinks at a glance

	Caffeine	Calories	Sugar	Taurine	B vitamins	Flavors	Ounces per serving	Cost
BEEBAD Sparkling Energy Drink	80mg	110	28g	❌	✅	One	8.4	$1.79
FITAID Energy	200mg	15	3g	❌	✅	Multiple	12	$2.42
Hiball Energy Seltzer Water	160mg	0	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	16	$2.00
Starbucks Baya Energy	160mg	90	23g	❌	✅	Multiple	12	$2.66
Steaz Energy Drink	100mg	140	35g	❌	✅	Multiple	12	$2.79
Tru Energy Caffeinated Sparkling Water	100mg	15	0g	❌	✅	Orange Mango	12	$2.33
True North Pure Energy Seltzer	120mg	0	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	12	$2.08
V8 Sparkling Energy	80mg	50	10g	❌	✅	Multiple	11.5	$1.33
Zipfizz Healthy Energy Drink Mix	100mg	20	0g	❌	✅	Multiple	—	$.93

Caffeine	80mg
Calories	110
Sugar	28g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	One
Ounces per serving	8.4
Cost	$1.79

BEEBAD: Final Verdict

BEEBAD Sparkling Energy Drink is the only energy drink on our list that contains the potential health benefits of propolis and royal jelly.

Caffeine	200mg
Calories	15
Sugar	3g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.42

FITAID Energy: Final Verdict

FITAID is the only energy drink on our list that contains omega-3s and quercetin.

Caffeine	160mg
Calories	0
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$2.00

Hiball Energy Seltzer Water: Final Verdict

Like Solimo Energy Drink, Hiball Energy Seltzer Water contains ginseng and guarana.

But Hiball contains a little more caffeine, and has more flavors available.

Caffeine	160mg
Calories	90
Sugar	23g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.66

Starbucks Baya Energy: Final Verdict

Dark Dog Organic Energy Drink also contains Vitamin C, but only contains 114mg of caffeine.

So Starbucks Baya Energy may be better for those who want more of that caffeine kick.

Caffeine	100mg
Calories	140
Sugar	35g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.79

Steaz Energy Drink: Final Verdict

A Shoc also contains guarana, but has a much higher caffeine content at 300mg per serving.

Steaz Energy Drink may be better for those that are looking for less of a caffeine rush.

Caffeine	100mg
Calories	15
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Orange mango
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.33

Tru Energy: Final Verdict

Like Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy, Tru Energy contains 100mg of caffeine.

But this doesn’t contain amino acids or electrolytes.

Caffeine	120mg
Calories	0
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12
Cost	$2.08

What rocked us about this energy drink:

Because it was a seltzer, it reminded us of drinking a LaCroix sparkling water.

It was easy on the throat.

True North Pure Energy Seltzer: Final Verdict

Like Tru Energy Caffeinated Sparkling Water, True North Pure Energy Seltzer is non-GMO and gluten free.

But True North uses some organic ingredients.

Caffeine	80mg
Calories	50
Sugar	10g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	11.5
Cost	$1.33

V8 Sparkling Energy: Final Verdict

At 80mg, V8 Sparkling Energy contains caffeine on the lower end of the spectrum for energy drinks.

Caffeine	100mg
Calories	20
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	✅
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	—
Cost	$.93

Zipfizz: Final Verdict

Zipfizz is the only energy drink mix on our list.

While there are a few other drink mixes on the market, we think Zipfizz may be the best option.

And last but not least, our selection of yerba mate energy drinks…

Best yerba mate energy drinks

Here are some of the best yerba mate energy drinks we could find.

What is yerba mate?

Simply put, yerba mate is an herbal tea.

The leaves and twigs of the yerba mate plant contain caffeine.

Yerba mate is meant to be consumed in moderation.

Best yerba mate energy drinks at a glance

	Caffeine	Calories	Sugar	Taurine	B vitamins	Flavors	Ounces per serving	Cost
Clean Sparkling Yerba Mate	160mg	60	16g	❌	❌	Multiple	16	$2.75
Guayaki Organic Yerba Mate	150mg	120	28g	❌	❌	Multiple	15.5	$2.79
Yakchak Organic Yerba Mate	165mg	150	34g	❌	❌	Multiple	16	$2.50
Yerbae	100-160mg	0	0g	❌	❌	Multiple	12-16	$1.92-2.50

Caffeine	160mg
Calories	60
Sugar	16g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	❌
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$2.75

Clean Sparkling Yerba Mate: Final Verdict

Clean is an organic yerbe mate alternative to typical energy drinks.

Caffeine	150mg
Calories	120
Sugar	28g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	❌
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	15.5
Cost	$2.79

What rocked us about this energy drink:

Guayaki Organic Yerba Mate is our go-to yerba mate energy drink.

It’s got a unique, earthy taste.

And it’s got a hearty dose of organic caffeine to get us up and moving.

Guayaki Organic Yerba Mate: Final Verdict

Guayaki Organic Yerba Mate is one of two energy drinks on our list that boasts of using fair trade practices.

The other is Yakchak Organic Yerba Mate.

But Guayaki has 15mg less of caffeine per serving.

Caffeine	165mg
Calories	150
Sugar	34g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	❌
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	16
Cost	$2.50

Yakchak: Final Verdict

Like Guayaki Organic Yerba Mate, Yakchak is certified fair trade.

But Yachak contains about 15mg more caffeine per serving.

Caffeine	100-160mg
Calories	0
Sugar	0g
Taurine	❌
B vitamins	❌
Flavors	Multiple
Ounces per serving	12-16
Cost	$1.92-2.50

What rocked us about this drink:

It has just enough caffeine to get us going without giving us the jitters.

Plus, the ingredients are non-GMO.

Yerbae: Final Verdict

Yerbae is the only sugar free option on our yerba mate energy drinks list.

Finally, let’s take a look at the last batch of energy drink frequently asked questions.

Energy Drink FAQs

📌 What is taurine?

Taurine is an amino acid found in the brain and heart as well as in meat and seafood.

It’s a nervous system suppressant.

But it does have a stimulating effect on the brain.

Taurine also aids in protein synthesis which supports the growth of muscle mass.

📌 What is gaurana?

Guarana is a plant that is native to the Amazon.

The seeds of the fruit are about the size of a coffee bean.

Guarana is used to reduce mental and physical fatigue.

Often used in energy drinks, guarana contains the stimulant caffeine.

Studies show that it may promote weight loss.

📌 What are the benefits of B vitamins in energy drinks?

B vitamins are often found in energy drinks because they have been linked to boosting energy levels.

In particular, Vitamin B12:

✅ helps form red blood cells

✅ converts fat and protein into energy

📌 Is natural caffeine better than synthetic caffeine?

Studies show that synthetic caffeine is more quickly absorbed into the body than natural caffeine.

As a result of the caffeine spike, that dreaded “crash” associated with “coming down” from caffeine can occur more quickly with synthetic caffeine.

In addition, synthetic caffeine can be exposed to chemicals during production.

In contrast, natural caffeine is derived from plants found in nature. 🌱

So while synthetic caffeine isn’t necessarily harmful in small doses, many opt for the caffeine from natural sources.

📌 Do energy drinks make you poop?

Yes, some energy drinks can make you poop. 💩

That’s because caffeine and sugar, two popular ingredients in many energy drinks, can have a laxative effect on our digestive system.

So if you want to avoid this phenomenon, you may want to choose an energy drink that has lower a caffeine and sugar content.

Energy Drink Guide: Conclusion

In today’s energy drink guide, we looked at some of the industry leaders in the energy drink world.

With our energy drink comparisons, you’ll now be able to make informed decisions as to which energy drink is right for you.

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