I don't do energy drinks, but sometimes I need something sweet like Coke or some chocolate, over acidic coffee. Although, I don't really do black coffee much either.
Its 2 different things, one is a sugar rush the other one is caffeine. You could argue you could use them for the same goals but the calories you get from energy drinks are way more.
If you need to run for miles, better the energy drink, if you need to drive, better the caffeine
Never in my life have I experienced sugar rush. Always thought it was a myth, until my partner told me about the kids in her class. Apparently it's real