Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts, Espresso Royale, home coffee.. there are so many options. I am a coffee lover and thought I would fill you in on what these coffee shops do well and what they lack.. I'll assess things such as caffeine content, options available, price, and accessibility.
Starbucks: Ah Starbucks everyone's favorite overpriced coffee shop. Here's some pros and cons for you.
Pros:
- Multitude of drink options such as mochas, cappuccinos, frappuccinos, espresso, and so much more!
- You can get coffee with a ton of caffeine or just a little
- They are on every corner so easily accessible!
- Chance to get free rewards (at participating locations)
- Slight issue with accessibility is the long lines(there is an option of ordering your coffee ahead of time but depending on location they may not offer this)
- One of the most expensive coffee shops ($6 coffee is ridiculous)
Ultimately if you are not afraid of the prices and occasional long lines, Starbucks has good drink options to satisfy your sweet tooth and/or caffeine cravings.
Dunkin' Donuts: If you are looking for good coffee and good food at an affordable price you've come to the right place!
Pros:
- 99 cent coffee after 3!
- Affordable (even before 3)
- Many different types of coffee and flavor options
- Great donuts and bakery items
- Stronger caffeine buzz than most other coffee shops (at least in my experience)
- Slightly harder to access than Starbucks (but still around)
- Coffee is sometimes pretty bitter (never fear that's what creamer and sugar is for!)
Don't hesitate to take a chance on their coffee, it usually is a great option!
Espresso Royale: Another option on most college campuses which has great coffee!
Pros:
- Many options from mochas, to normal coffee, to speciality drinks
- Coffee is great with good amount of caffeine
- Offer drink deals and hand out coupons!
- Easily accessible for college students
- Don't normally have as long of lines as Starbucks
- Coffee is more bitter than Starbucks or Dunkin' (flavoring and sugar are your best friends!)
- Pretty expensive if you don't have a coupon
Home Coffee: No one can forget the good ole-fashioned home coffee option!
Pros:
- Cheapest option
- The right brand (I like Starbucks, Dunkin', and McDonald's brand) is good and highly caffeinated
- You can enjoy it from the comfort of your own home (shoutout to all my fellow morning monsters!)
- Many different creamers and other flavor options
- No lines!
- More time-consuming to make(but there are no lines..)
- Harder to get specialized coffee drinks (cappuccinos, frappuccinos, etc)
Home coffee is a great everyday option. If you are like me and need caffeine to survive the morning having coffee at home is essential for you and the rest of your community's survival.
Conclusion:
It is really exciting as a coffee lover to have so many great options! I hope you can use these comparisons to find your favorite coffee option! Don't be afraid to mix and match either because there are many benefits of each option! Happy coffee drinking!! Be sure to share your thoughts on your favorite coffee places!
