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Caffeine in a Red Bull

A standard Red Bull has about 80 mg — roughly one coffee's worth, despite the "gives you wings" reputation.

About 80 mg per 8.4 oz can

The standard 8.4 oz (250 ml) can of Red Bull contains roughly 80 mg of caffeine — about the same as a single cup of coffee. The bigger 12 oz can has around 114 mg, and the 16 oz around 151 mg. Compare it on the caffeine chart. (Per the standard can; check the label for the size you have.)

Why it feels stronger than it is

Red Bull's kick isn't really about the caffeine — at 80 mg it's a modest dose. It's the sugar (~27 g in a standard can), the cold fizzy delivery, and the fact people drink it fast. The sugar-free version keeps the 80 mg and drops the sugar.

How it fits your day

One standard can is an easy fit inside the 400 mg adult limit — it's roughly a quarter of it. Where it adds up is in combination: a Red Bull plus two coffees is already ~270 mg. Track the total with the intake calculator.

And your sleep

80 mg is gentler than a Monster or cold brew, but it's still caffeine. An evening Red Bull — common before nights out or gaming sessions — will keep working long past when you want to sleep. Check what's left at bedtime with the half-life calculator.


Put it into practice: see how a Red Bull stacks up against your coffee on the caffeine chart.

Free sleep & caffeine calculators