Prime Energy has more caffeine than Monster on both counts: 200mg per 12 oz can against 160mg per 16 oz can, and about 17mg per fluid ounce against 10. The serving sizes differ, so the table below shows both ways of counting.
Monster vs Prime Energy: the numbers
| Monster | Prime Energy | |
|---|---|---|
| Caffeine per serving | 160mg per 16 oz can | 200mg per 12 oz can |
| Caffeine per fl oz | 10.0mg | 16.7mg |
| Servings to reach 400mg (FDA context) | 2.5 | 2.0 |
Sources: Monster's figure is verified in our Monster caffeine guide against Caffeine Informer (source); Prime Energy's figure is verified in our Prime Energy guide against Caffeine Informer (source).
Which one should you pick?
Pick Monster when you want the lighter dose or a slower ramp, and Prime Energy when you actually need the bigger hit and know your tolerance. If you are stacking either with other caffeinated drinks through the day, run the math against the 400mg reference rather than guessing.
For context, the FDA cites 400mg of caffeine a day as an amount generally not associated with negative effects in healthy adults. Tolerance and health vary, so treat these numbers as information, not advice.
Related reading
- Monster: the full caffeine guide
- Prime Energy: the full caffeine guide
- The verified caffeine database
- Every drink compared: the comparisons index
FAQ
Does Monster or Prime Energy have more caffeine? Prime Energy: 200mg per 12 oz can versus 160mg per 16 oz can for Monster.
Which is stronger per ounce? Prime Energy, at about 16.7mg per fluid ounce versus 10.0mg for Monster.
Comparing caffeine? The caffeine comparison tool puts hundreds of drinks side by side, and the caffeine curfew calculator can check your cutoff time for tonight.