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Tea library: types, caffeine and brewing

The type of tea decides more than flavour: it also shapes the caffeine. Here are the seven most common types, with ranges, brewing and sources.

From less to more caffeine

Types are ordered by average caffeine per cup. Ranges overlap, so a particular cup can differ.

TypeHow it is madeCaffeine per cupWater, °C
Oolong teaPartly oxidised tea4–29 mg85–95
White teaMinimally processed tea6–31 mg75–85
Green teaUnoxidised tea11–29 mg70–82
Pu-erh teaMicrobially fermented tea13–40 mg95–100
Black teaFully oxidised tea14–48 mg95–100
MatchaShade-grown, whole-leaf powdered tea38–89 mg80–90
Yerba mateNot tea: leaves of Ilex paraguariensis54–80 mg70–80
Black teaFully oxidised teaUsually fuller in flavour and darker than green tea; it is the most common tea in teabags.Green teaUnoxidised teaUsually lighter, fresher and grassier; water that is too hot or steeping that is too long makes it more bitter.Oolong teaPartly oxidised teaA wide range, from light and floral to richer and roasted, depending on oxidation and roasting.White teaMinimally processed teaLighter than most green or black teas, with a pale yellow cup.Pu-erh teaMicrobially fermented teaYoung raw pu-erh is often strong, bitter and astringent; well-aged it turns smoother and earthy. Ripe pu-erh has a fermented, earthy taste.Yerba mateNot tea: leaves of Ilex paraguariensisLike an infusion of vegetables, herbs and grass, somewhat like some green teas; often bitter when steeped in hot water.MatchaShade-grown, whole-leaf powdered teaA strong umami flavour, which is mostly attributed to amino acids such as theanine.

Caffeine in tea and theanine

Tea also contains L-theanine. A review in Nutrition Reviews (2008) says tea taken at regular intervals may help maintain alertness and focused attention, and that theanine together with caffeine may improve attention switching. General information, not medical advice.

Tea brandsDrink comparisonsCaffeine calculatorQuiz

Sources

Brewing temperature and time are typical: manufacturers' instructions may differ. Data checked 2026-10-24. General information, not medical advice.

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