Ghost vs. Alani Nu vs. C4 vs. Celsius: Which 200mg Energy Drink Is Right for You?
Ghost, Alani Nu, C4 and Celsius are four of the most popular energy drinks in the country, and they all have 200mg of caffeine. So what's the difference? It comes down to can size, the extra ingredients, and flavor style.
Side by side
| Ghost | Alani Nu | C4 | Celsius | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caffeine | 200mg | 200mg | 200mg | 200mg |
| Can size | 16 oz | 12 oz | 16 oz | 12 oz |
| Sugar | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0g |
| Key extras | L-carnitine, taurine, Alpha-GPC, NeuroFactor, AstraGin | B vitamins, L-theanine | CarnoSyn beta-alanine | Seven vitamins |
| Flavor style | Candy and soda collabs | Fruity and dessert, seasonal drops | Popsicle, Jolly Rancher, Cereal Killer | Fruit-forward, sparkling |
Pick Ghost if you want nostalgic flavors
Ghost is the go-to for licensed flavors like Warheads, Bubblicious and A&W Root Beer. The bigger 16 oz can is also good for sipping over a longer stretch.
Pick Alani Nu if you want light and smooth
Alani Nu fits 200mg into a 12 oz can with around 10 calories. L-theanine is often paired with caffeine for a smoother feel, and Alani's limited seasonal flavors tend to sell out fast.
Pick C4 if it's a gym day
C4 Energy comes from the pre-workout world. Beta-alanine supports muscular endurance and causes a harmless tingling feeling some people love and others don't.
Pick Celsius if you want a clean label
Celsius has no aspartame and no artificial colors or flavors, and it's gluten-free, kosher, non-GMO and vegan. If you want more, Celsius Essentials steps up to 270mg in a 16 oz can.
Why not all four?
With Build Your Own Pack you can mix Ghost, Alani Nu, C4 and Celsius in a single 4, 6 or 12-pack and decide for yourself. Free US shipping over $80.
Caffeine and ingredient amounts are from each brand's current labels at the time of writing. Brands do reformulate, so always check the can. Energy drinks aren't recommended for children, pregnant or nursing women, or anyone sensitive to caffeine.