According to the American College of Sports Medicine, supplementing your workouts with some of the best electrolyte supplements and carbohydrates can help support your performance more so than plain water. (1) Accordingly, the best electrolyte drinks can be a handy tool to have on-hand when Gatorades and Powerades just aren’t cutting it anymore.
Finding a worthwhile powder packet or electrolyte drink mix is more involved than seeing which formulation is on sale. Athletes should consider the amount of sodium per serving alongside other factors such as available flavors, other key ingredients, and (of course) overall value. To help you elevate your hydration with high-quality solutions, our team of experts has tested over 20 popular electrolyte drinks over the years, using our supplement testing methodology to rate and review each profile in categories such as:
- Included Electrolytes: Which key minerals are featured in the makeup? Does the drink mix contain multiple electrolytes for supporting electrolyte levels during training?
- Taste: Are the available flavors enjoyable and interesting, or will flavor fatigue set in quickly given a lack of options?
- Solubility: Does the hydration drink mix actually blend easily, or are you left with an abundance of residue at the base of your cup or shaker bottle?
- Value: Does the performance and flavor justify the cost?
- Third-Party Testing: Has the formulation undergone independent testing to check for label accuracy and banned substances? Does the brand list the certifying lab?
The BarBend team has helped connect over 1.6 million athletes with high-quality nutrition products from the best BCAA supplements and protein powders to creatine gummies, greens supplements, and (of course) electrolyte drinks. If you’re in the market for a supercharged hydration solution for various training needs, we’re confident that the following details can steer you in the right direction. Now, let’s get into our findings.
Best Electrolyte Drinks of 2025
- Best Electrolyte Drink Overall: Transparent Labs Hydrate
- Best Tasting Electrolyte Drink: LMNT Hydration
- Best All-Natural Electrolyte Drink: BUBS Naturals Hydrate or Die
- Best Sugar-Free Electrolyte Drink: Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier Sugar-Free
- Best Electrolyte Drink for Runners: Onnit HYDRATech Instant
- Best Electrolyte Drink for Hangovers: BUBS Naturals Hydrate or Die
- Best Electrolyte Drink When Sick: Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier
Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine.
Best Electrolyte Drink Overall: Transparent Labs Hydrate
Transparent Labs Hydrate contains 500mg of a coconut water powder complex that can potentially help promote satiation — thanks to the fiber content. Plus, it's combined with a dose of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and taurine for a complete electrolyte supplement.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $0.75
- Electrolyte Blend: 500mg sodium, 250mg potassium, 84mg calcium, 50mg magnesium
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Available Flavors: Peach Mango, Tropical Punch
Why We Like It
For those looking to tackle their fluid balance with a clean, tasty formulation, we highly recommend Hydrate from Transparent Labs. Like the brand’s best pre-workout supplements, this tasty supplement is certified by Informed Choice and contains no artificial sweeteners, colorings, or preservatives.
“Transparent Labs Hydrate gets a 4.25 out of 5 for its formula, with deductions stemming from the included tree nuts and proprietary blend,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, registered dietitian nutritionist and BarBend expert contributor.
Our tester, a certified personal trainer, really enjoyed the effectiveness of this electrolyte drink, saying they felt a definite sense of hydration in both pre- and post-workout scenarios with no unwanted side effects. “As a pre-workout it’s a great way to increase muscle endurance,” they added, giving the effects a 5 out of 5. “I definitely felt more hydrated.”
We liked the flavor but it’s definitely stronger than you might expect. After trying the Tropical Punch, our tester thought it tasted incredibly concentrated, giving the flavor a 3 out of 5. Even when mixed with more water, we found it difficult to dilute the taste. Luckily, we had no issues with solubility, though.
We also appreciate the more prominent 500-milligram serving of sodium in this electrolyte drink, which can be ideal for heavy sweaters or endurance athletes. Sodium is the predominant electrolyte lost in sweat, so replenishing this mineral is key when it comes to defending against fluid loss.
Sadly, those looking for an ultra-convenient method of rehydration may want to look beyond this concocted electrolyte water. Unlike other electrolyte drinks in this round-up offering single-serving packaging, Transparent Labs Hydrate is only available in a tub. This is great for keeping costs per dose to just 75 cents, but it’s less beneficial when trying to keep a dose in your back pocket or gym bag for quick replenishment.
Best Tasting Electrolyte Drink: LMNT Hydration
LMNT Recharge electrolytes come in a variety of flavors, from chocolate and caramel varieties to fruity and citrus tastes. You can even opt for a variety pack for more flavor options.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $1.50
- Electrolyte Blend: 1,000mg sodium, 200mg potassium, 60mg magnesium
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Available Flavors: Lemonade Salt, Citrus Salt, Watermelon Salt, Raspberry Salt, Grapefruit Salt, Orange Salt, Raw Unflavored, Mango Chili, Chocolate Salt, Chocolate Caramel
Why We Like It
If you don’t enjoy the flavor of a supplement you’re using, it’ll be hard to use it consistently. Thankfully, LMNT is the best-tasting electrolyte drink we’ve tested, and while flavor can be subjective, there are 10 tastes to choose from, so you’re sure to find something you like.
“I love the mix of fruity and salty flavors,” says Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC, who rates the flavor at 5 out of 5. “The lime and grapefruit flavors, in particular, are absolutely delicious on a hot summer day.”
Of course, flavor isn’t all that matters, and LMNT’s formulation is also excellent, earning 5 out of 5 stars. It’s Paleo, Keto, vegan-friendly, and free from sugar, gluten, and artificial ingredients such as sucralose—a popular artificial sweetener. The dosing is also very clear, and each packet contains 1,000 milligrams of sodium, 200 milligrams of potassium, and 60 milligrams of magnesium.
Dustin, who has been using LMNT regularly for three years, also rates LMNT at 5 out of 5 for the effects, which he says are quite noticeable. “I live in Las Vegas, where the summers are very hot, and I lose a lot of sweat during my workouts,” he explains. “LMNT makes a noticeable difference in my hydration levels, especially during cardio or jiu-jitsu sessions. When I skip it, I often get a little dizzy or nauseous during a tough, sweaty workout.”
Our one callout is the price, which isn’t cheap. LMNT costs $45 for a 30-pack, or $39 if you set up a monthly subscription. That means you’re paying between $1.30 and $1.50 per packet, which is more expensive than many other electrolyte brands. However, if you have a hot beach workout on the horizon and want to stay hydrated with appealing flavors, the extra cost could be worthwhile.
Best All-Natural Electrolyte Drink: BUBS Naturals Hydrate or Die
These convenient single-serve packs of electrolytes are great for on the go and come in a research-backed ratio to help keep you hydrated. They have high-quality, all-natural ingredients and are certified by NSF.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $1.89
- Electrolyte Blend: 670mg sodium, 1,030mg chloride, 248mg potassium, 50mg magnesium, 5mg calcium
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Available Flavors: Lemon, Orange, Organic Coconut
Best Sugar-Free Electrolyte Drink: Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier Sugar-Free
This impressive electrolyte drink relies on stevia leaf extract to create that sweet, enjoyable taste in each refreshing sip. Plus, the included doses of sodium and potassium can help with replenishing key minerals when suffering from dehydration.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $1.86
- Electrolyte Blend: 510mg sodium (530mg with Lemon Lime flavor), 380mg potassium
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Available Flavors: White Peach, Lemon Lime, Green Grape
Why We Like It
If you’re looking for a sugar-free solution to keeping your body hydrated, consider this convenient profile from Liquid I.V.. The brand is one of the most trusted in the space, and this sugar-free option can provide similar hydrating qualities to its sugar-powered brethren (more on that electrolyte drink in a bit).
“Liquid I.V. gets a 4 out of 5 for its formulation,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “It contains essential vitamins and electrolytes that can support your best workout and recovery. However, deductions stem from its high sodium content and added sugars.”
After testing this product, we liked the makeup of this Sugar-Free Hydration Multiplier and found no issues in its effectiveness. After long, sweaty workouts, we still felt energized and quenched, which can be attributed to the impressive 510-milligram dose of sodium.
“I enjoyed the flavor of Liquid I.V.,” our tester, a certified nutrition coach, said, giving the taste a 5 out of 5. “I don’t think the formula is overly sweet and it’s only a tiny touch salty. The salt really helps the flavor shine.” You do need to mix with at least 16 ounces of water, though, otherwise the flavor is too pungent.
Additionally, you can subscribe for repeat orders of Liquid I.V., which can be convenient for keeping your supplement shelf well-stocked. Plus, Liquid I.V. offers a 23% discount when you subscribe, making it a great solution for athletes on a budget.
As far as taste, we had no negative comments other than that the offerings aren’t as robust as other Liquid I.V. products. Some customers have noted, though, that the included stevia leaf extract can leave an unpleasant aftertaste, so be mindful of this when deciding on which flavor to add to your cabinet.
Read our full Liquid I.V. Review.
Best Electrolyte Drink for Runners: Onnit HYDRATech Instant
Onnit contains a blend of sodium, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are all hydrating electrolytes. In addition, this formula contains only 7g of sugar, which is much lower than many sports drinks on the market.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $2.00
- Electrolyte Blend: 260mg sodium, 260mg potassium, 130mg calcium, 25mg magnesium
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Available Flavors: Tangerine, Lime
Best Electrolyte Drink for Hangovers: BUBS Naturals Hydrate or Die
These convenient single-serve packs of electrolytes are great for on the go and come in a research-backed ratio to help keep you hydrated. They have high-quality, all-natural ingredients and are certified by NSF.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $1.89
- Electrolyte Blend: 670mg sodium, 1,030mg chloride, 248mg potassium, 50mg magnesium, 5mg calcium
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Available Flavors: Lemon, Orange, Organic Coconut
Best Electrolyte Drink When Sick: Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier
This hydration supplement is packed with electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals to help you replenish what is lost while sweating.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $1.56
- Electrolyte Blend: 500mg sodium (510mg with other flavors), 370mg potassium
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Available Flavors: Strawberry Lemonade, Seaberry, Tropical Punch, Piña Colada, Concord Grape, Golden Cherry, Acai Berry, Guava, Lemon Lime, Passion Fruit, Strawberry, Watermelon
Why We Like It
Like a hangover, dealing with an illness can also leave you dehydrated and with imbalances to your electrolytes, especially if your symptoms include diarrhea and vomiting. While it’s always best to consult your personal healthcare provider when dealing with a sickness, Liquid I.V.’s Hydration Multiplier can also be a worthwhile tool for getting over a bug.
“With 3 times more electrolytes than the average sports drink, this product can help you replenish lost electrolytes faster than water alone,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, who gave the formula a 4 out of 5. However, it does contain added sugars, which may not be ideal for everyone.
This trusted electrolyte drink is widely available, so picking up a box of single-serving packages is easy enough when strolling through the drug store. Plus, there are 12 flavors to choose from, which our testers liked. “I really liked the flavor of Liquid I.V.,” our tester, a certified personal trainer, says, giving the taste a 5 out of 5. “I did notice some saltiness but nothing overbearing.”
Mixing the Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier is simple enough, although you do need to use the 16 ounces, otherwise it won’t dissolve perfectly. “If you try and short it, it turns out grainy and much too pungent … don’t ask me how I know that,” they said, rating the solubility a 4.5 out of 5.
Outside of the included electrolyte blend, Hydration Multiplier also boasts five essential vitamins that can also play a part in getting your body back to a healthier state. Each serving includes vitamins B3, B5, B6, B12, and vitamin C, which can help with supporting your digestive, immune systems — a definite plus when trying to overcome a sick day.
Finally, while Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier may seem like a must-have for your next battle with a cold, we do recommend reading the ingredients list before putting a serving down the hatch. For one, the included 500 milligrams of sodium can be great for replenishing electrolytes during a workout, but it may be too potent of a dose for someone that hasn’t lost a lot of fluids.
How We Tested and Chose the Best Electrolyte Drinks
The team at BarBend is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, dedicated fitness enthusiasts, and more. Working out is both work and play for us, so staying hydrated throughout our endeavors is always top priority. In determining the best electrolyte drinks, we tested over 20 products firsthand. Based on our supplement testing methodology, here are the factors we considered and rated on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest):
- Electrolyte Blend: Significant electrolytes include sodium, potassium, chloride, magnesium, calcium, phosphate, and bicarbonates. We particularly focused on each pick’s sodium levels. Studies encourage consuming between 500 and 700 milligrams of sodium for exercise sessions lasting over one hour. (3)
- Other Ingredients: Electrolyte drinks can also feature additional ingredients intended for supporting your workouts. For example, carbohydrates like glucose and sugar can help bolster energy levels in the throes of training, making them beneficial companions to the hydrating electrolytes. (4)
- Price Per Serving: In testing we found that most electrolyte drinks are under $2 per serving. For reference, that’s slightly more than the average price of a 20-ounce bottle of water ($1.50), all with the added benefits of included key ingredients. (5)
- Taste and Flavor Variety: There’s no sense in recommending an electrolyte drink if it doesn’t taste good, right? So, we looked at each pick’s flavor profile as much as possible, highlighting our favorites wherever relevant.
- Solubility: After mixing electrolytes with water, the product can form clumps or floaties. We mixed our products with a shaker bottle, blender, and standard water bottle to see which formules dissolved best.
- Third-Party Testing: As with any supplement, getting a third-party seal of approval is a nice reassurance, especially when you remember that supplements are not regulated by the FDA. We looked closely at each product’s certifications, noting when a pick was supported by third-party testers.
The Benefits of Electrolyte Drinks
We’re not opposed to maintaining daily hydration levels through the recommended 3,000mL of water per day, but electrolyte drinks can help boost those experiences through a number of factors. (6) Below are some of the top potential perks associated with consuming electrolyte beverages as they relate to health and fitness.
- Improved Hydration: Supplementing with these mineral-rich powders can be beneficial when partaking in strenuous exercise, during bouts with illness, dealing with extreme heat, and even morning hangovers.
- Better Recovery: Electrolytes also promote blood clotting and bone health, as well as tissue growth and repair. (2) These perks can do wonders for creating a well-rounded environment for recovery.
- Overall Wellness: Studies also indicate that routinely drinking electrolytes and water can improve your mood and cognitive functions along with fewer instances of anxiety and hostility. (7)
- Convenience: Most electrolyte drinks come in single-serving packets, eliminating the need for measuring out scoops or toting large tubs with you when on the go. Plus, the powders typically dissolve quickly after a few shakes, making the mixing process simple.
Who are Electrolyte Drinks For?
Electrolyte drinks can be considered safe for most healthy individuals, but it’s always wise to consult with your personal healthcare provider before adding a supplement to your daily regimen.
That said, electrolyte drinks can be particularly helpful for athletes taking part in extended training sessions, as well as individuals suffering from sudden fluid losses through illness, diarrhea or vomiting.
The amount of electrolytes you should consume depends greatly on a number of factors, including your age, activity level, and diet habits. Below are the recommended daily doses for some of the most significant electrolytes often found in electrolyte drinks, per the Dietary Reference Intakes: (8)
Proper Electrolyte Dosages
- Sodium: 2,300 mg/day
- Potassium: 4,700 mg/day
- Chloride: 3,600 mg/day
- Magnesium: 3,500 mg/day
- Calcium: 1,000 mg/day
- Phosphorus: 700 mg/day
Again, your needs may differ depending on your diet and activity levels, but these metrics can be a good general guideline to see if you’re taking in enough vital minerals.
How to Choose the Best Electrolyte Drink for You
Maintaining your hydration levels is pivotal to keeping your body healthy and supported when working out, and electrolyte drinks can be great tools for keeping these metrics in check. Below are a few factors worth considering when deciding on a proper electrolyte drink for your routine.
Electrolyte Blend
When searching for a quality electrolyte drink, one of the main minerals to look for is sodium. Sodium is the predominant electrolyte lost in sweat, so replenishing these mineral levels during supplementation is key. Other electrolytes can be included in the formulation in various doses to help support your athletic performance and daily hydration.
Be sure to take your fitness goals and daily needs into consideration when looking through ingredients lists. If you’re wanting to support extended workouts, it can be best to look for robust blends including doses of multiple electrolytes that can work to replenish your levels during training. If you just want to boost your daily hydration, a simple makeup of just sodium can suffice.
Price Per Serving
Most electrolyte drinks are fairly affordable, with many coming in under $2 per serving. Conveniences like single-serving packaging and pre-made beverages can elevate the price, so it’s important to take this into account.
If you don’t mind measuring out your servings from a tub, you can potentially save some money. If you prefer to have your rehydration solution at the ready without much fuss, expect to pay a little more for such luxuries.
Regardless, make sure that your chosen electrolyte drink fits neatly into your budget before adding it to your cart. You don’t want to dry up your wallet for the sake of quenching your thirst.
Flavor Variety
Studies show that drinking flavored water can help influence your fluid intake. (9) After all, you’re likely to favor a drink that tastes good over a beverage lacking any flavor, right? So, it’s important to look for electrolyte drinks offering flavors that appeal to your palette. Look through the offerings to ensure your pick has an option you’d likely enjoy.
It’s also wise to look for electrolyte drinks offering some sense of variety in the flavor department. This can help defend against flavor fatigue after extended supplementation while still delivering the same sense of replenishment. The available flavors don’t need to be extensive, but having a little room for mixing things up can be a nice touch.
Third-Party Testing
Like other supplements, electrolyte drinks are not regulated by the FDA, which can allow room for malpractice when it comes to the dosages and makeup of each formulation. So, to reassure yourself that your chosen pick actually delivers its listed minerals, it can be helpful to look for products that have been approved for consumption by a separate third party.
This can be especially helpful for athletes governed by certain organizations like the World Anti-Doping Agency and NCAA. Popular third-party testing companies include Informed Choice, Informed Sport, and NSF.
Best Electrolyte Drinks FAQs
Is it okay to drink electrolytes every day?
Electrolyte drinks are generally safe for most healthy individuals, but supplementing with them day in and day out isn’t particularly necessary, especially when you’re not partaking in activities that further fluid and electrolyte loss. Plus, you’re plenty capable of consuming the recommended daily doses of electrolytes through your balanced diet.
If you are looking to have an electrolyte drink daily, be sure to take your activity levels and diet into consideration. It can also be smart to talk to your healthcare professional to truly determine if you’re insufficient in these minerals, and whether daily supplementation could be beneficial.
Is there a downside to drinking electrolytes?
In general, electrolyte drinks hold more benefits than negatives, allowing you to replenish hydration and mineral levels with ease when you feel dehydrated. That said, consuming electrolyte drinks in excess can lead to some less-than-desirable sensations including nausea and diarrhea. Be sure to listen to your body and consume these supplements when necessary.
What is the best electrolyte drink?
While the best electrolyte drink can be subjective, we’re big fans of Transparent Labs Hydrate given its third-party testing credentials and high sodium content — a potential benefit for heavy sweaters and endurance athletes.
Can drinking electrolytes help with losing weight?
Electrolyte powders are not weight-loss products. While staying hydrated can be part of a healthy weight-loss plan, they won’t actually help you burn calories or promote weight loss.
References
- Shephard, R. J. (2007). American College of Sports Medicine Position Stand: Exercise and Fluid Replacement. Yearbook of Sports Medicine, 2007, 254–255.
- Shrimanker, I., & Bhatttarai, S. (2023, July 24). Electrolytes – statpearls – NCBI bookshelf. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541123/
- American College of Sports Medicine Position Stand: Exercise and fluid … Kentucky High School Athletic Association. (n.d.). https://www.khsaa.org/sportsmedicine/heat/exerciseandfluidreplacement.pdf?goal=0_84979a60af-d2531f5c20-&mc_cid=d2531f5c20&mc_eid=[UNIQID]
- Holesh, J. E., Aslam, S., & Martin, A. (2023, January). Physiology, carbohydrates. National Center for Biotechnology Information. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29083823/
- The True Cost of Bottled Water. Optimum Water Solutions. (2022, June 10). https://drinkoptimum.com/the-true-cost-of-bottled-water/
- Meinders, A.-J., & Meinders, A. E. (2010). [how much water do we really need to drink?]. Nederlands tijdschrift voor geneeskunde. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20356431/
- Cousins, A. L., Young, H. A., Thomas, A. G., & Benton, D. (2019). The effect of hypo-hydration on mood and cognition is influenced by electrolyte in a drink and its colour: A randomised trial. Nutrients, 11(9), 2002. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6769552/
- Dietary reference intakes: Electrolytes and water – mt. san antonio college. Mt. San Antonio College. (n.d.). https://www.mtsac.edu/kinesiology/sportsnutrition/documents/DRI_Electrolytes_Water.pdf
- Szlyk, P. C., Sils, I. V., Francesconi, R. P., Hubbard, R. W., & Armstrong, L. E. (1989). Effects of water temperature and flavoring on voluntary dehydration in men. Physiology & Behavior, 45(3), 639–647. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2756057/
- Swift, R., & Davidson, D. (1998). Alcohol hangover: Mechanisms and mediators. Alcohol health and research world. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6761819/
