Prime Energy has more caffeine than NOS Energy 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.
Prime Energy vs NOS Energy: the numbers
| Prime Energy | NOS Energy | |
|---|---|---|
| Caffeine per serving | 200mg per 12 oz can | 160mg per 16 oz can |
| Caffeine per fl oz | 16.7mg | 10.0mg |
| Servings to reach 400mg (FDA context) | 2.0 | 2.5 |
Sources: Prime Energy's figure is verified in our Prime Energy caffeine guide against Caffeine Informer (source); NOS Energy's figure is verified in our NOS Energy guide against Caffeine Informer (source).
Which one should you pick?
Pick NOS 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
- NOS Energy: the full caffeine guide
- The verified caffeine database
- Every drink compared: the comparisons index
FAQ
Does Prime Energy or NOS Energy have more caffeine? Prime Energy: 200mg per 12 oz can versus 160mg per 16 oz can for NOS Energy.
Which is stronger per ounce? Prime Energy, at about 16.7mg per fluid ounce versus 10.0mg for NOS 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.