Battle of Fatigue Fighters
Which Caffeinated Drink Reigns Supreme?
by Lea Tran
Caffeine is practically a college essential. Whether you’ve been an avid latte consumer since high school or dabble in the occasional Celsius during college exam period, it’s a go-to for long days. I’m always searching for the best drink to keep me awake, so I’ve decided to rank all the caffeinated beverages I’ve consumed over my college career–from energy drinks to tea–based on taste, price, and effectiveness.
Celsius
Celsius is probably the most iconic energy drink these days. Those cans are inescapable when in Mugar. I only started drinking Celsius during my first finals week and it’s been a love-hate relationship ever since.
I love that the 250 mg of caffeine packed into it can keep me awake for an entire day and make me want to run around Boston. Although I hate the weird film it leaves in my mouth and its alarming bright green color, for just under three dollars, it gets the job done.
Taste: 3/10 | Effectiveness: 10/10 | Cost: 8/10
Matcha
Some people think this drink tastes like dirt–I think it tastes like heaven. It’s earthy, aesthetic, and smooth when made right.
Unfortunately, matcha barely keeps me awake, and at around six dollars per cup, this is not my go-to late-night study drink.
Taste: 10/10 | Effectiveness: 2/10 | Cost: 4/10
Coffee
Like most people, coffee is my gateway into the world of caffeine. While the taste of plain black coffee might be unappealing to some, I actually really enjoy the bitterness. But I also love an iced latte. The only problem? It’s inconsistent. Some days it helps me tackle every task on my to-do list; other days, I’m falling asleep with my cup of coffee in hand.
Price varies too. Black coffee from home is basically free, but a latte can cost over five dollars. Still, it’s a classic.
Taste: 8.5/10 | Effectiveness: 6/10 | Cost: 6/10
Red Bull
I was never on the Red Bull train up until I tried those special flavored versions. And let me tell you, the strawberry apricot flavor changed me.
It doesn’t leave a weird aftertaste like Celsius, tastes like a fruit soda, and keeps me alert. The only problem is the small-sized cans which could be good for a midday pick-me-up but come to the same cost as a Celsius.
Taste: 8/10 | Effectiveness: 7/10 | Cost: 7/10
Yerba Mate
Yerba Mates are hit or miss with me, but Bluephoria? I could drink it all day.
Unlike most energy drinks, they aren’t carbonated so I’m not burping in the library. It does the trick just fine– though it can be a little too sweet.
Coming in at just over three dollars, Yerba Mates have been making a regular appearance on my busier days.
Taste: 7/10 | Effectiveness: 9/10 | Cost: 7/10
My final ranking
Yerba Mate
Red Bull
Celsius
Coffee
Matcha
I’m not an expert and I definitely did not consider the health risks– but let’s be real, most college students don’t monitor their caffeine intake. Hopefully, this guide helps next time you’re in City Convenience looking for a drink that can help you focus in Mugar.
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