Ghost Energy appears to be the stronger contender due to its higher caffeine content, wider variety of flavors, inclusion of nootropics, and generally positive user feedback regarding energy boost and taste. Coca-Cola Energy, while offering a familiar flavor, suffers from taste criticisms, lower energy impact, and discontinuation in North America. However, the choice depends on individual preferences for flavor profiles and desired effects.
| Attribute | Coca-Cola Energy | Ghost Energy |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Coca-Cola Energy | Ghost Energy |
| Caffeine Content (mg) | 114 mg per 12 fl oz can | 200 mg per 16 fl oz can (from coffee beans) |
| Sugar Content (g) | Regular: 39 grams per 12 fl oz can; Zero Sugar: 0 grams | Zero sugar |
| Calorie Count | Regular: 140 calories per 12 fl oz can (some sources say 120 calories); Zero Sugar: 0 calories | 5 calories per can |
| Primary Flavor Profile | Coca-Cola taste with a blend of Niacin, Vitamin B6, and Guarana. Some reviews note a chemical-like flavor. | Wide variety, candy collaborations (Sour Patch Kids, Warheads), citrus, tropical mango, cherry limeade, orange cream |
| Presence of Artificial Sweeteners | Zero Sugar: Contains Acesulfame Potassium and Sucralose | Yes (sucralose, acesulfame potassium) |
| Vitamin and Mineral Additives | Niacin (B3) and Vitamin B6 | Vitamin C, B vitamins (Niacinamide, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Pyridoxine HCl, Thiamine HCl, Folic Acid, Cyanocobalamin) |
| Electrolyte Content | Sodium is present (40mg in Zero Sugar) | Some sources mention electrolytes but do not specify which ones |
| Carbonation Level | Medium. Some reviews mention strong carbonation. | Moderate |
| Available Flavors | Coca-Cola Energy, Coca-Cola Energy Zero Sugar, Coca-Cola Energy Cherry, and Coca-Cola Energy Zero Sugar Cherry | Blue Raspberry, Cherry Limeade, Citrus, Electric Limeade, Merica Pop, Orange Cream, Sour Watermelon, Swedish Fish, Welch's Grape, Tropical Mango, Sour Patch Kids Redberry, Sour Patch Kids Blue Raspberry, Sour Green Apple Warhead, Strawbango, Faze Pop, Sour Strips Rainbow, Bubblicious Strawberry Splash, Bubblicious Cotton Candy, Sour Pink Lemonade, OG |
| Package Size Options | 12 fl oz slim cans. Also available in 250ml cans. | 16 fl oz cans, 12-packs |
| Price per Can/Serving | Around $2-3. A 4-pack of 12 fl oz cans is listed at $5.58. | Around $2.50 |
| Ingredients Quality | Includes natural flavors, caffeine, guarana extract, and B vitamins. Some versions contain high fructose corn syrup and glucose. | Natural caffeine, L-Carnitine, Taurine, Alpha-GPC, NeuroFactor, no artificial colors, contains artificial sweeteners and preservatives |
| Pros | Contains B vitamins, Zero sugar option available | Smooth, sustained energy boost without jitters or a crash, Effective for workouts and focus, Unique flavors and collaborations, Zero sugar content, Contains nootropics for enhanced focus and cognitive function |
| Cons | Some reviewers found the taste disappointing and not like classic Coca-Cola, Some describe a chemical taste and bitter aftertaste, Regular version contains a high amount of sugar, Some felt it didn't provide as much energy as other energy drinks, Coca-Cola Energy contains caffeine, which can have a dehydrating effect, Coca-Cola Energy was discontinued in North America in May 2021 | Some reviewers find the drinks overly sweet, Some detect an artificial sweetener taste, Some note a lingering aftertaste or chalkiness, Concerns over the use of artificial sweeteners and preservatives |