Surge has more caffeine than Dr Pepper on both counts: 69mg per 16 oz can against 41mg per 12 oz can, and about 4mg per fluid ounce against 3. The serving sizes differ, so the table below shows both ways of counting.
Surge vs Dr Pepper: the numbers
| Surge | Dr Pepper | |
|---|---|---|
| Caffeine per serving | 69mg per 16 oz can | 41mg per 12 oz can |
| Caffeine per fl oz | 4.3mg | 3.4mg |
| Servings to reach 400mg (FDA context) | 5.8 | 9.8 |
Sources: Surge's figure is verified in our Surge caffeine guide against Caffeine Informer (source); Dr Pepper's figure is verified in our Dr Pepper guide against KDP product facts / Caffeine Informer (source).
Which one should you pick?
Pick Dr Pepper when you want the lighter dose or a slower ramp, and Surge 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
- Surge: the full caffeine guide
- Dr Pepper: the full caffeine guide
- The verified caffeine database
- Every drink compared: the comparisons index
- Compare any two of 120+ drinks
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Gear from this guide
FAQ
Does Surge or Dr Pepper have more caffeine? Surge: 69mg per 16 oz can versus 41mg per 12 oz can for Dr Pepper.
Which is stronger per ounce? Surge, at about 4.3mg per fluid ounce versus 3.4mg for Dr Pepper.
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