With both a Starbucks and Dunkin’ within a two-block proximity of NYCMS, students have quite the selection when choosing their daily pick-me-up. Whether it be a matcha latte with three pumps of vanilla and pumpkin cold foam or a plain old black coffee, Dunkin’ and Starbucks have you covered. The real question is, which franchise should you be giving your hard-earned money to?
Some prioritize proximity over price; Norah Buckman, a senior at NYCMS, states that because Dunkin’ and Starbucks drinks taste essentially identical, “whichever [store] is closer is more worth my money.”
Though our local Dunkin’ is slightly farther than Starbucks, Junior Maya Griffith finds that Dunkin’ outshines Starbucks due to their “constant offers and deals.” She finds that Dunkin’ tends to be more generous with their points system in that each dollar spent at Dunkin’ is equivalent to ten points, while each dollar spent at Starbucks is equal to two points. Dunkin’ is also known for releasing promo codes for rewards members every couple months for free items.
Dunkin’s affordability attracts many students, but there are drawbacks. Angel Albenio, a Starbucks patron and senior at NYCMS, finds that Starbucks drinks are worth the extra cost, since they’re “healthier and higher in quality.”
Shea Hinman, a senior, believes that “it depends on the type of drink you’re in the mood for.” She thinks that Starbucks is a better option for seasonal drinks such as peppermint mochas or pumpkin spiced lattes, while Dunkin’ is better for a cheaper pick-me-up. She also believes that Starbucks’ higher price point is due to popularity; people love to walk around with a Starbucks logo on their cups, and therefore choose to buy their drinks at Starbucks.
People also tend to love the little messages baristas write on their cups, which Shea believes is another marketing scheme. While it is nice to have a tiny smiley face or an uplifting message on the top of your cup, is it really worth the extra couple bucks?
Freshman Lee Ann Wong explains that “you should not prioritize the cost of items over healthiness and cleanliness. She continues, “One time, I entered Dunkin’ for a quick bite, and I saw flies and bugs crawling on the donuts. Even though Starbucks is more expensive, their food quality is a lot better.”
Upon survey, students agree that Starbucks offers higher quality products. According to The Testing Table, Starbucks brews coffee using beans that are almost double the price and Dunkin’s, and tends to have less sugary drinks.
So, what’s the verdict? Well, there may never be a concrete answer; whether Dunkin’ or Starbucks drinks are more worth your money depends solely on personal preferences. However, based on the general consensus, Starbucks tends to be the better option for those who value quality, cleanliness, creativity, and happen to have a little extra cash on hand. Dunkin’ on the other hand, seems to be the better option for a slightly cheaper, quick pick-me-up that’ll fill your stomach in no time.
