Vanilla Coke has more caffeine than Sprite: 34mg vs 0mg in the same 12 oz can. That is a 34mg gap, and since the cans match, the per-serving number is the whole story.
Sprite vs Vanilla Coke: the numbers
| Sprite | Vanilla Coke | |
|---|---|---|
| Caffeine per serving | 0mg per 12 oz can | 34mg per 12 oz can |
| Caffeine per fl oz | 0.0mg | 2.8mg |
| Servings to reach 400mg (FDA context) | n/a (caffeine-free) | 11.8 |
Sources: Sprite's figure is verified in our Sprite caffeine guide against Caffeine Informer (source); Vanilla Coke's figure is verified in our Vanilla Coke guide against Caffeine Informer (source).
The concentration gap is the striking part: Vanilla Coke packs roughly 283 times the caffeine per ounce. Sipping speed matters at that density; a 12 oz can finished in minutes hits differently than the same milligrams spread over a slow cup.
Which one should you pick?
Pick Sprite when you want the lighter dose or a slower ramp, and Vanilla Coke 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
- Sprite: the full caffeine guide
- Vanilla Coke: the full caffeine guide
- The verified caffeine database
FAQ
Does Sprite or Vanilla Coke have more caffeine? Vanilla Coke: 34mg per 12 oz can versus 0mg per 12 oz can for Sprite.
Which is stronger per ounce? Vanilla Coke, at about 2.8mg per fluid ounce versus 0.0mg for Sprite.
Barista Life runs on coffee people. Browse the Barista Life shop to support the site.