Bright green matcha powder on ceramic bowl.

Green Tea Powder vs Matcha Powder: Understanding the Key Differences

Written by: Dr James Pendleton

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Published

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Time to read 8 min

Many people wonder about the difference between green tea powder and matcha. Both come from the Camellia sinensis tea plant, but their preparation methods, nutrient content, and flavor set them apart. Matcha powder is shade grown, stone ground, and known for its vibrant green color, while green tea powder is made from regular green tea leaves and has a milder taste.


Understanding the main differences between matcha and green tea can help you choose the right option for your tea consumption and overall health benefits. This guide will compare their caffeine content, antioxidant content, and unique characteristics so you can make an informed choice.

Person holding a cup of matcha drink.

What is Green Tea Powder?

Green tea powder is made by drying and grinding tea leaves into a powder, but it is processed differently from matcha. Unlike matcha powder, it comes from tea leaves grown in full sunlight, resulting in a bitter flavor and a coarser texture. Since it is not shade-grown or stone-ground, green tea powder typically has a lighter green color and may have different antioxidant levels than matcha, depending on the tea variety and processing method.

Common Uses of Green Tea Powder

Green tea powder is versatile and is often used in cooking and baking. It adds a natural tea flavor to a variety of foods and drinks.


  • Blended into smoothies for an antioxidant boost

  • Mixed into baked goods like cookies and cakes

  • Added to oatmeal or yogurt for extra nutrients

  • Used in homemade skincare for its antioxidant content

  • Steeped in hot water to make mild brewed green teas

"Both (green tea and matcha powder ) come from the Camellia sinensis tea plant, but their preparation methods, nutrient content, and flavor set them apart.”

A bowl of finely ground green tea powder.

What is Matcha Powder?

Matcha powder is made from shade-grown tea leaves that are harvested after several weeks of limited sunlight. This shading process boosts chlorophyll and amino acid levels, giving matcha tea its bright green powder and smooth texture. The leaves are then stone-ground into a fine powder, which helps preserve nutrients, antioxidants, and caffeine, but exact levels vary based on the tea source and quality.

Common Uses of Matcha Powder

Matcha is traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies but has become a popular ingredient in modern recipes.


  • Whisked with hot water to make ceremonial grade matcha

  • Blended into matcha lattes for a creamy, slightly bitter drink

  • Used in desserts like matcha-flavored ice cream and cakes

  • Added to smoothies for a natural energy boost

  • Incorporated into loose leaf tea blends for a unique twist

A mound of bright green matcha powder in a ceramic bowl.

Green Tea Powder vs Matcha: What’s the Difference?

Green tea powder and matcha may look similar, but they have significant differences in taste, texture, processing methods, and nutrients. Understanding these main differences can help you decide which one best fits your tea consumption preferences.

Taste

Green tea powder has a stronger, more bitter flavor because it is made from regular green tea leaves that are fully exposed to sunlight. Matcha powder, on the other hand, has a smoother, slightly sweet taste due to the shading process that boosts its natural amino acid content. This makes matcha tea a more popular choice for lattes and other beverages.

Texture

The texture of matcha and green tea powder differs due to processing methods. Matcha powder is stone ground into a fine powder, making it silky and smooth. In contrast, green tea powder is coarser and grainier, which affects how it blends in hot water and other liquids.

Processing Methods

Matcha powder is produced using a specialized process that includes shade growing, careful harvesting, and stone grinding to create its fine, bright green powder. Green tea powder, however, comes from sun-grown green tea leaves that are harvested and ground without the same level of precision, resulting in a less vibrant color and fewer nutrients.

Preparation

Making matcha tea requires special preparation methods. It is traditionally whisked with hot water using a bamboo whisk to create a frothy, smooth texture. Green tea powder, in contrast, can be stirred into liquids or easily added to recipes, making it more convenient for cooking and baking.

Nutrient Profile

Matcha green tea contains more nutrients than green tea powder because the entire tea leaf is consumed. It is particularly rich in antioxidants, L-theanine, and other beneficial compounds. These unique characteristics make matcha a preferred choice for those looking for more antioxidants and caffeine content in their tea.

A mound of green tea powder with coarse texture.

Health Benefits of Green Tea Powder vs Matcha

Both green tea and matcha offer health benefits, but the difference in processing methods affects their nutrient content and impact on overall health.

Antioxidant Content

Matcha powder contains higher levels of certain antioxidants, such as EGCG, which has been studied for its potential antioxidant and health-supporting properties. The shade-grown process boosts its antioxidant content, making it one of the most potent green teas available.

Caffeine Levels

Both green tea powder and matcha contain caffeine, but matcha has more due to its concentrated form. Since the entire tea leaf is consumed, matcha tea provides a more substantial energy boost than brewed green tea made from loose tea or tea bags.

Weight Loss Benefits

Green tea and matcha are both known for their weight loss benefits. They contain caffeine and catechins, which have been studied for their potential role in metabolism and fat oxidation. Drinking matcha tea or using green tea powder in recipes can be a practical addition to a healthy diet.

Boosting Energy and Focus

Matcha powder contains L-theanine, which may help promote relaxation and focus when combined with caffeine. This amino acid works with caffeine to provide a calm yet focused state, making matcha lattes and other matcha-based drinks a great alternative to coffee.

A cup of matcha latte.

Price Comparison: Green Tea Powder vs Matcha

Matcha powder is generally more expensive than green tea powder due to its labor-intensive production process. The shading, hand-picking, and stone grinding required to create ceremonial-grade matcha add to its cost. In contrast, green tea powder is made from regular green tea leaves that are sun-grown and machine-processed, making it more affordable but with fewer nutrients and a coarser texture.

Why is Matcha More Expensive?

The higher price of matcha comes from its specialized growing methods and careful processing. Since it is shade-grown for several weeks, it develops higher levels of chlorophyll, L-theanine, and antioxidants.


Stone grinding also takes longer, ensuring a fine powder with a smooth texture and bright green color. Green tea powder, on the other hand, is easier to produce, making it a cheaper alternative without the same premium qualities.

A woman holding a tin of matcha powder.

Which is Better for Cooking: Green Tea Powder or Matcha?

Green tea powder is often the better choice for cooking and baking due to its strong, bitter flavor. It holds up well in high-heat recipes and works well in desserts, smoothies, and savory dishes. Since it is more affordable, it can be used in larger amounts without concern for cost.


Matcha powder is better suited for beverages like matcha lattes and traditional matcha tea because of its smoother, more refined taste. Its fine texture and higher antioxidant content make it a popular choice for health-conscious drinks, but it is less commonly used in recipes that require high heat.

Matcha-flavored drinks and desserts.

Unique Uses for Green Tea Powder and Matcha

Most people know green tea powder and matcha for their use in green teas and lattes, but they also have unique characteristics that make them great for other applications. Here are some creative ways to incorporate them into your routine.

Green Tea Powder in Skincare

The antioxidant content in green tea powder makes it a popular ingredient in DIY face masks and skincare treatments. It helps reduce inflammation and redness, making it beneficial for acne-prone or sensitive skin. Mixing green tea powder with honey or yogurt creates a simple, natural mask that soothes and brightens the skin.

Matcha in Savory Dishes

While matcha powdered green tea is commonly used in desserts, it also works well in savory recipes. Its umami flavor adds depth to soups, salad dressings, and marinades. Sprinkling matcha green teas into vegetable dishes or mixing it with olive oil and vinegar creates a unique, nutrient-rich addition to meals.

Woman with a green tea powder face mask.

Fun Facts About Green Tea Powder and Matcha Green Tea

Buddhist monks originally used matcha tea to help them stay alert and focused during long meditation sessions. The combination of caffeine and L-theanine provided a steady, calming energy without jitters.


Green tea powder has been a staple in Japanese cuisine for centuries, especially in traditional sweets like mochi and wagashi. It has remained a significant part of Japanese tea culture, influencing modern and traditional recipes.

Cups of matcha tea in a traditional setting.

Green Tea Powder vs Matcha – Which One Should You Choose?

Green tea powder and matcha offer unique characteristics, but the choice depends on your taste preferences and health goals. Matcha powder is best for those looking for a smooth, nutrient-dense tea with more caffeine and antioxidants, making it ideal for matcha lattes and traditional tea ceremonies.


Green tea powder is a more affordable and versatile option for cooking, baking, and skincare. Whether you prefer a fine, vibrant green powder or a coarser, bitter tea, both provide health benefits and can be easily incorporated into your daily routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is matcha stronger than green tea powder?

Yes, matcha has more caffeine and antioxidants because the entire tea leaf is consumed, making it more potent in flavor and nutrients.

Can I use matcha and green tea powder interchangeably in recipes?

It depends on the recipe. Matcha powder is best for drinks and delicate desserts, while green tea powder works better in baking and savory dishes.

What are the health benefits of drinking matcha every day?

Drinking matcha tea provides antioxidants and L-theanine, which have been studied for their potential role in metabolism and cognitive support.

Why does matcha cost more than green tea powder?

Matcha powder is shade-grown, hand-picked, and stone-ground, making it more labor-intensive and higher in quality than regular green tea powder.

Is matcha or green tea powder better for weight management?

Both contain caffeine and catechins, which have been studied for their potential role in metabolism. However, individual results may vary.

REFERENCES

  1. Deng, W.-W., Yue, F., Wang, S., Wan, X.-C., Zhang, Z. Z., & Hu, X.-Y. (2013). Effect of shade treatment on theanine biosynthesis in Camellia sinensis seedlings. Plant Growth Regulation, 71(3), 295-299. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10725-013-9828-1

  2. Hursel, R., Viechtbauer, W., & Westerterp-Plantenga, M. S. (2009). The effects of green tea on weight loss and weight maintenance: a meta-analysis. International journal of obesity (2005), 33(9), 956–961. https://doi.org/10.1038/ijo.2009.135

  3. Katiyar, S. K., Afaq, F., Perez, A., & Mukhtar, H. (2001). Green tea polyphenol (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate treatment of human skin inhibits ultraviolet radiation-induced oxidative stress. Carcinogenesis, 22(2), 287–294. https://doi.org/10.1093/carcin/22.2.287

  4. Nobre, A. C., Rao, A., & Owen, G. N. (2008). L-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state. Asia Pacific journal of clinical nutrition, 17 Suppl 1, 167–168. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18296328/

  5. Weiss, D. J., & Anderton, C. R. (2003). Determination of catechins in matcha green tea by micellar electrokinetic chromatography. Journal of chromatography. A, 1011(1-2), 173–180. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0021-9673(03)01133-6 

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. James Pendleton

Dr. James Pendleton is a primary care physician specializing in a naturopathic approach to family medicine. He has nurtured a family practice in Seattle, directed a VIP medical center in Abu Dhabi, published several books and scientific articles, and designed innovative nutritional supplements for manufacturers worldwide.