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Head-to-head evidence comparison — which supplement is right for you?
Caffeine wins 2 of 3 categories. Both are solid choices — the best pick depends on your specific goals.
Verdict
Likely helps
29 of 35 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Verdict
Mostly mechanism / observational
Top outcomes
Shared outcomes (2)
Outcomes where both Caffeine and Theacrine have evidence — compare verdict strength side-by-side.
100-200mg
Morning, 30-60 minutes before exercise
Pill/capsule for precise dosing
100-200mg daily
Morning or early afternoon, 30-60 minutes before focus work, Pre-workout
TeaCrine (branded theacrine)
15-45 minutes
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes, lasts 4-6 hours
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
Effect of Acute Caffeine Intake on the Fat Oxidation Rate during Exercise: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Nutrients (2020) · Meta analysis · n=2020
A subsequent meta-analysis was performed using the random effects model to calculate the standardized mean difference (SMD).
The effects of caffeine intake on weight loss: a systematic review and dos-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Critical reviews in food science and nutrition (2019) · Meta analysis · n=606
Thirteen RCTs with 606 participants were included in the meta-analyses.
Effect of Caffeine and Nitrates Combination on Exercise Performance, Heart Rate and Oxygen Uptake: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Nutrients (2024) · Meta analysis · n=95
The meta-analysis revealed that caffeine and nitrates supplementation (CAF+nitrates) did not enhance performance in time trials (TTs) over the CAF alone (g = -0.06; 95% CI = -0.46 to 0.35; p = 0.78) or nitrates alone (g = 0.29; 95% CI = -0.12 to 0.70; p = 0.17).
A caffeine and theacrine combination improves cognitive performance in tactical personnel under physically fatiguing conditions
Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (2025) · Rct · n=20
In the Object Hit & Avoid task, CAF and CTC significantly improved task accuracy (p < 0.01) while reducing omission (p < 0.01) and commission errors (p < 0.01) compared to PLA.
Theacrine as a novel ergogenic aid: impact on canoe sprint performance
Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (2025) · Rct · n=20
Caffeine significantly improved the 500-meter time trial (-1.872 s vs.
Uncovering the effects and mechanisms of tea and its components on depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders: A comprehensive review
Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.) (2024) · Systematic review
The underlying molecular mechanisms involve the regulation of neurotransmitters, including monoamines, GABA, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), as well as the suppression of oxidative stress and inflammation.
Based on multiple meta-analyses showing 3-6mg/kg optimal dosing. Performance benefits plateau around 200-300mg with increased jitteriness at higher doses.
Effects are modest and inconsistent across studies. Several RCTs showed no significant cognitive improvements. Benefits appear primarily in subjective energy/focus rather than objective cognitive tasks. Studies show mixed results with some finding no statistical significance.
AI-estimated from published studies. Interpret as directional guidance.
Caffeine has a higher evidence score (9.5/10 vs 5.5/10) and wins in 2 of 3 categories.
For boost daily energy, Caffeine has a higher relevance score (98 vs 80).
No known interactions between Caffeine and Theacrine have been documented in our database. However, always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements.