The Ultimate Coffee Face Off

Photo by Laura Segura

By: Laura Segura

Starbucks, started in 1971 in Seattle, Wash.,and is famous worldwide for its cafe-style shops and drinks you can customize. Dutch Bros, started in 1992 in Grants Pass, Ore., and is known for quick drive-thru service, friendly employees, and energy drink-based drinks you can also customize. Both coffee chains are growing fast and have loyal fans, but they offer very different experiences.

Areli Lerma, sophomore, said, “I think Dutch Bros is better than Starbucks, because they have better prices and more options for customizing drinks.”

This rivalry matters because both companies are expanding rapidly and targeting similar customers, especially teens and young adults. Starbucks has over 35,000 stores worldwide, making it one of the biggest coffee chains ever. Dutch Bros is smaller, with more than 800 locations, but it is still growing fast. 

The competition is strongest in places where both chains have stores, like the West Coast and southern U.S. Customers compare price, speed, drink flavors and the overall vibe when picking where to go. Over the past month, Dutch Bros has nosedived more than 27%, and so far this year both Dutch Bros and Starbucks have fallen around 9% and 10.9%,  highlighting how the coffee chains have lagged behind the overall market.

Kaylee Ornelas, sophomore said, “I think Starbucks is a better place to get your beverage from because they have a better variety and I prefer it more than Dutch.”
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Which is “better” depends on what people like. Starbucks gives a classic coffeehouse feel where you can sit, study, or work. Dutch Bros focuses on fast service and high-energy employees who often chat with customers.

In a poll of 56 people, 35% said Dutch Bros is better, while 21% said Starbucks is better. Proving people prefer Dutch Bros' delicious coffee, and cheaper prices. 

As both companies keep opening new locations in 2026, the rivalry isn’t slowing down. In the end, the choice comes down to whether you care more about atmosphere and tradition or speed and fun in your coffee run.

Sources:
https://apnews.com/article/starbucks-coffee-menu-open-drivethru-dunkin-7f47a4e35e411a0e61c2bf2e551d1de7?utm_source

https://thetigercu.com/27877/news/dutch-bros-coffee-clemson-location-construction/?utm_sourc
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https://www.fool.com/investing/2025/10/12/better-buy-dutch-bros-vs-starbucks/