Matcha Vs Chai: Caffeine, Benefits, & Key Differences

A battle is brewing, and it’s between two of the most popular bigwigs of the tea world: matcha vs chai. This comparison goes a lot tougher and deeper than you think, as at one end lies the cozy, spicy, and fragrant chai and at the other, rich, finely-ground, and smooth Matcha. Both teas are revered for their taste, aroma, and health profiles. 

So, let’s deep dive and know about the two tea titans so that you can answer the most important question: Is chai or matcha better for you? The blog explores caffeine content to health benefits, so that it can help you choose for your teatime ritual.

Matcha vs Chai Caffeine

Can’t decide between Matcha vs Chai because you are probably wondering about their caffeine content? Without a second thought, and as clear as the day, it’s Matcha that has the higher caffeine content. As charming and beloved as Chai is in Indian households, it contains relatively less caffeine compared to Matcha. Chai, brewed from black tea leaves, has approximately 50-70 mg caffeine per cup. The aromatic spices that you typically find, like ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom, are all caffeine-free. It’s just a vibrant, comforting, and maybe slightly addictive beverage with medicinal benefits that eliminates the anxiety of caffeine overload in your body.

Matcha is a delightful, healthy beverage that contains 136mg of caffeine per cup. As the world obsesses over Matcha, pushing it almost to extinction, this drink is far better than coffee! Its unique blend of L-Theanine and caffeine avoids crash and jitters, which are commonly associated with coffee. The matcha vs chai caffeine is relatively higher in comparison; however, both of them offer supreme tea experiences.                     

Is Matcha or Chai Healthier?

Now we all know these two titans are reigning the beverage world, loved by millions of loyal followers for their unique taste profiles, aromas, and most importantly, health benefits. So it boils down to one question: Is matcha or chai healthier? Matcha has L-Theanine, which promotes relaxation and improved mental clarity and focus. A super fun fact about Matcha:

“Matcha has 13x more antioxidants than pomegranate, 137x more than present in a regular brewed green tea, 15x more than blueberries, and 125x more than spinach.”

Chai from the bustling streets of India, filled with the rich aroma of spices, isn’t far behind in wellness perks. Especially the masala Chai, which has medicinal spices like ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, and clove, offers numerous health benefits. The beverage is a powerhouse of antioxidants, may aid in digestion, and also helps reduce stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation and a calming effect.

Matcha Latte vs Chai Latte: Which One is Better?

Over the past few decades, we have seen the traditional Masala Chai cherished on the streets and in households of India booming with the rise and popularity of Chai Latte in Western countries. Now, the true chai lovers might not agree with the westernized misrepresentation of ‘Chai Latte’; however, it serves as a specialty in most coffee shops outside India. But the ultimate duel is between matcha latte vs chai latte!

Chai Latte is a perfect concoction of brewed black tea, steaming milk, aromatic spices, and sweetener of your choice. Matcha Lattes are just earthy, creamy, and vibrant, made to perfection with smooth matcha, steaming milk, and your favorite sweetener (optional), served best iced or hot. So if you're craving something warm and comforting, a Chai Latte is a good choice, and if you are a fan of subtle umami taste but also need an energy boost, a Matcha Latte is the winner.

Matcha vs Chai: Which Should You Choose?

Now it all comes down to the ultimate showdown between the two contenders, Matcha vs Chai. Let’s do a quick run-through of the popular teas so that you can ultimately decide which tea is the superior one of them all. 

In the matcha vs chai debate, we could clearly see the differences. From distinct flavor profiles to their health benefits, both teas are versatile and delicious. To pick a favorite, it completely depends on your individual preferences. 

If you are looking for high-quality Matcha, you can shop at ILEM JAPAN, which has the best Ceremonial Grade Matcha in India. So if you want an energy boost or an afternoon pick-me-up and experience the finest Japanese tea experience, then our matcha is a good choice. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Does chai or matcha have more caffeine?

Matcha has nearly double the caffeine content of chai, making it better for sustained energy without the jitters or crash.

2. Is matcha vs chai better for weight loss?

Matcha is packed with antioxidants like EGCG, which helps boost metabolism and potentially aids in appetite control.

3. Which is better for mornings: matcha vs chai?

Both Matcha and Chai have unique benefits. Matcha delivers sustained energy without a caffeine crash as well as focused mental clarity, whereas Chai offers a warm, calming, and comforting experience that aids digestion.

4. Is Chai good for digestion and gut health?

Chai is well-known for its digestive properties, largely due to the spices used in its preparation. It aids in digestion, reducing bloating, and promoting overall gut health.