Prime Energy has more caffeine than C4 Performance Energy on both counts: 200mg per 12 oz can against 200mg per 16 oz can, and about 17mg per fluid ounce against 12. The serving sizes differ, so the table below shows both ways of counting.
Prime Energy vs C4 Performance Energy: the numbers
| Prime Energy | C4 Performance Energy | |
|---|---|---|
| Caffeine per serving | 200mg per 12 oz can | 200mg per 16 oz can |
| Caffeine per fl oz | 16.7mg | 12.5mg |
| Servings to reach 400mg (FDA context) | 2.0 | 2.0 |
Sources: Prime Energy's figure is verified in our Prime Energy caffeine guide against Caffeine Informer (source); C4 Performance Energy's figure is verified in our C4 Performance Energy guide against Caffeine Informer (source).
Which one should you pick?
Pick C4 Performance Energy 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
- Prime Energy: the full caffeine guide
- C4 Performance Energy: the full caffeine guide
- The verified caffeine database
- Every drink compared: the comparisons index
FAQ
Does Prime Energy or C4 Performance Energy have more caffeine? Prime Energy: 200mg per 12 oz can versus 200mg per 16 oz can for C4 Performance Energy.
Which is stronger per ounce? Prime Energy, at about 16.7mg per fluid ounce versus 12.5mg for C4 Performance Energy.
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.