Espresso

Espresso

Caffeine

64 mg

1 shot: per 30 ml

3-5

MODERATE

Caffeine levels in espresso vary due to several key reasons. The coffee bean type is the first factor. Arabica beans usually have less caffeine than Robusta beans. Robusta beans can have almost twice the caffeine content.

Roast level also affects caffeine content. Light roasts keep more caffeine because they are roasted for a shorter time. Dark roasts lose some caffeine during the longer roasting process.

Grind size and extraction method play a big role in caffeine levels too. A finer grind allows more caffeine extraction. The espresso machine’s pressure and temperature also change how much caffeine dissolves into the shot.

Serving size matters as well. A double shot of espresso has almost twice the caffeine of a single shot.

Single Espresso Shot

A single espresso shot contains about 1 fl oz (30 ml) of brewed coffee. This small volume holds a strong caffeine punch. Typically, one shot has around 64 mg of caffeine. This means the caffeine concentration is about 64 mg per fl oz.

Besides caffeine, a single espresso shot has only 3-5 calories. This makes it a low-calorie way to get energized.

Double Espresso Shot

A standard double espresso shot contains 2 shots or 2 fluid ounces (about 60 ml) of espresso. The drink has roughly 6-10 calories, making it a low-calorie option for those watching their intake. The caffeine content is quite high, with about 128 mg of caffeine per serving.

The caffeine concentration in a double espresso is strong, approximately 64 mg per fluid ounce. This concentration means you get more caffeine in less liquid compared to most other coffee drinks.

Triple And Quad Shots

Triple and quad shots deliver a powerful caffeine boost. A 3-shot espresso contains about 3 fl oz (90 ml) of coffee and 192 mg of caffeine. This is perfect for those needing a solid energy lift without drinking multiple cups. A 4-shot espressohas 4 fl oz (120 ml) and 256 mg of caffeine.

Both shots keep a consistent caffeine concentration of 64 mg per fl oz. This means each extra shot adds the same caffeine amount, making strength easy to calculate.

Comparing Espresso To Regular Coffee

Espresso is a small, strong coffee shot brewed under pressure. Regular coffee is brewed by drip or pour-over methods. The caffeine content varies by serving size and brewing style. An 8 oz cup of coffee averages 95–120 mg caffeine. This is the typical amount in a standard coffee cup.

Espresso has more caffeine per ounce but comes in smaller servings. One espresso shot contains about 63 mg of caffeine. This means one cup of coffee equals about 1.5–2 shots of espresso. The strength depends on brew style and coffee type. Here are key points to consider:

  • Espresso packs more caffeine per ounce — around 63 mg in 1 oz.
  • Regular coffee has less caffeine per ounce — about 12 mg in 8 oz.
  • Espresso servings are smaller, so total caffeine per drink is less.
  • Caffeine strength changes with the brewing method and coffee beans.

To match the caffeine in a cup of coffee, you need about 1.5–2 espresso shots. Both offer caffeine, but in different ways and amounts.