Low Calorie Non Alcoholic Beer Review (Updated | May 3rd)
Low-calorie non-alcoholic beer serves consumers seeking the sensory experience of traditional brewing without the physiological effects of alcohol or high caloric density. When evaluating these beverages, the primary considerations include the balance of hop bitterness, malt profile, and mouthfeel, which often diminishes when sugar and alcohol are removed. This guide analyzes various brands based on ingredient quality, carbohydrate content, and flavor authenticity. It is designed for individuals managing weight, athletes focusing on recovery, and those prioritizing wellness who require a detailed comparison of available market options.
Key Takeaways
- The Ultra-Low Calorie IPA is the best choice for keto dieters seeking zero carbs and bright citrus notes.
- Choose the Guilt-Free Variety Sampler if you want to test multiple flavor profiles before committing to a full case.
- Look for options with ten calories or fewer to ensure your drink fits strict daily caloric deficits.
- Prioritize brands using clean, natural ingredients to avoid the artificial aftertaste common in mass-produced non-alcoholic beers.
- Verify the carbohydrate count on labels as calorie counts can be low while sugar levels remain surprisingly high.

Partake Brewing Non-Alcoholic IPA, 12-Pack Cans
Ultra-Low Calorie IPA
- Extremely low calorie count at only ten per can.
- Zero grams of carbohydrates makes it perfect for keto diets.
- Bright grapefruit and citrus notes provide a refreshing flavor profile.
- BEST FOR ULTRA-LOW CALORIE IPA: Partake Brewing Non-Alcoholic IPA, 12-Pack Cans Read More ↓
- BEST FOR GUILT-FREE VARIETY SAMPLER: Partake Brewing Non-Alcoholic Variety Pack, 12-Pack Cans Read More ↓
- BEST FOR AUTHENTIC CRAFT TASTE: Athletic Brewing Run Wild Non-Alcoholic IPA, 12-Pack Read More ↓
- BEST FOR CRISP LOW-CARB LIGHT: Athletic Brewing Non-Alcoholic Low Carb Light Brew Read More ↓
- BEST FOR GLUTEN-CONSCIOUS PALE ALE: Go Brewing Freedom West Coast Pale Non-Alcoholic Beer Read More ↓
- BEST FOR FLORAL SMALL-BATCH PILSNER: Go Brewing Small Batch Non-Alcoholic Beer Read More ↓
- BEST FOR CLEAN SESSIONABLE LAGER: Athletic Brewing Athletic Lite Non-Alcoholic Beer, 6-Pack Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ROTATING FLAVOR DISCOVERY: Best Day Brewing Non-Alcoholic Variety Pack, 12-Pack Read More ↓
- BEST FOR TROPICAL LIME REFRESHMENT: Best Day Brewing Electro-Lime Mexican Style Lager, 12-Pack Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BOLD CITRUS BITTERNESS: Best Day Brewing West Coast Non-Alcoholic IPA, 12-Pack Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Low Calorie Non Alcoholic Beer
Partake Brewing Non-Alcoholic IPA, 12-Pack Cans

If you’re watching your weight but still crave that hop-heavy bite, this IPA is honestly a bit of a wizardry feat. It clocks in at a staggering 10 calories and 0g of carbs, which is practically unheard of in the craft world.
When you pour it, you get this brilliant gold color and a scent that hits you with grapefruit and floral honey notes. It’s definitely on the lighter side—think effervescent and crisp rather than heavy and syrupy.
I’d recommend this to the person who wants to stay in the social loop at a BBQ without feeling weighed down by sugar. It uses a simple four-ingredient base of water, barley, hops, and yeast, keeping things vegan and non-GMO.
The bitterness sits at a mild 26 IBUs, so it’s approachable but still has that signature citrusy finish. The real downside here is the mouthfeel; because it lacks the sugars and alcohol, it can feel a bit thin or watery compared to a traditional heavy IPA.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Extremely low calorie count at only ten per can.
- Zero grams of carbohydrates makes it perfect for keto diets.
- Bright grapefruit and citrus notes provide a refreshing flavor profile.
- Uses clean, natural ingredients without any weird fillers.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- The body feels quite thin and lacks traditional beer weight.
- The bitterness can linger a bit too long on the tongue.
Partake Brewing Non-Alcoholic Variety Pack, 12-Pack Cans

This variety pack is the move if you’re new to the brand and don’t want to commit to just one style. It’s the ultimate ‘fridge filler’ for anyone trying to cut back on booze while keeping their calorie intake between 10 to 25 calories per can.
You get to cycle through different profiles, all while sticking to their non-GMO and gluten-friendly brewing process. What I love about this set is that it proves you don’t need a ton of sugar to make a drinkable brew; they rely on high-quality hops and barley to do the heavy lifting.
It’s a great choice for athletes or busy parents who want a ‘shower beer’ or a weeknight treat without the morning fog. However, the variety can be a double-edged sword.
Since these are all very light-bodied, you might find that some styles, like the darker ones, lack the robust richness you’d expect from their alcoholic counterparts, leaving you wishing for a bit more malt depth.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Great way to sample different styles without buying multiple cases.
- Consistently low calorie range across all included varieties.
- Perfect for social gatherings where guests have different tastes.
- Vegan-friendly ingredients ensure it fits almost any lifestyle.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Darker styles in the pack lack traditional creamy richness.
- Carbonation levels can vary slightly between the different cans.
Athletic Brewing Run Wild Non-Alcoholic IPA, 12-Pack

If you are a fan of big, piney flavors but want to skip the morning headache, the Run Wild IPA is pretty much the gold standard for craft non-alcoholic beer. I usually take these on hiking trips because they actually taste like a real West Coast IPA thanks to that five-hop blend, rather than the metallic water you might expect from older NA brands.
It is brewed with simple ingredients like malted barley and yeast, giving it a full-bodied mouthfeel that holds up even when you are pairing it with a greasy burger at a BBQ. It is the perfect choice for the ‘sober curious’ runner or parent who needs to stay sharp but still craves that bitter hop bite.
The only real catch is that while the flavor is spot on, it lacks that specific alcohol warming sensation in the throat, which can make it feel a little thin if you drink it too fast.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- The hop profile mimics a traditional West Coast IPA perfectly.
- It uses high-quality malted barley for a rich, authentic texture.
- At only 65 calories, it fits most fitness-focused lifestyles.
- The carbonation levels stay consistent from the first sip to last.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- It lacks the characteristic ‘burn’ found in high-ABV craft IPAs.
- The bitterness can feel slightly one-dimensional when served too cold.
Athletic Brewing Non-Alcoholic Low Carb Light Brew

For those days when you just want something crisp and easy-drinking without the heavy hop profile, Athletic Lite is a total game changer. It is brewed with a unique mix of rice and malt, which gives it that classic, clean ‘light beer’ finish that is incredibly refreshing after a workout or while sitting by the pool.
Because it is a low-carb brew, you don’t get that bloated feeling that usually comes with heavier craft options. It is the ultimate ‘fridge filler’ for anyone who wants to enjoy a few cold ones during a weeknight game without any impact on their productivity the next morning.
However, if you are someone who genuinely enjoys the complex, funky notes of a craft ale, you might find this one a bit too simple or mild for your palate. It definitely prioritizes being refreshing and light over being a flavor powerhouse.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- The rice and malt blend creates a very clean finish.
- Extremely low calorie count makes it a guilt-free choice.
- It is much more refreshing than heavier non-alcoholic stout alternatives.
- The light body makes it easy to pair with any meal.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- The flavor profile is very mild and lacks complexity.
- It can taste slightly watery if it sits out and warms up.
Go Brewing Freedom West Coast Pale Non-Alcoholic Beer

If you’re missing that classic hop bite but want to keep your head clear, the Freedom West Coast Pale is a surprisingly solid swap. It doesn’t feel like a watery afterthought; instead, you get a smooth malt backbone with those familiar caramel and citrus notes you’d expect from a standard pale ale.
What’s really cool is the grain bill—they use millet, buckwheat, and oats, making it a gluten-conscious choice for folks who usually have to skip the beer aisle. It’s brewed in small batches and even has a born-on-date on the can, so you know you aren’t drinking something that’s been sitting in a warehouse for a year.
It’s perfect for a post-hike reward or a weeknight dinner when you want the flavor without the fog. The only real catch is that while the Clarex treatment helps with gluten, the texture is a bit thinner than a full-leaded West Coast IPA, so don’t expect a heavy mouthfeel.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- The citrus and floral hop profile tastes remarkably authentic.
- Uses a gluten-conscious formula that is easier on the stomach.
- Small batch brewing ensures a much higher quality control level.
- The born-on-date guarantees you are drinking a fresh product.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- The body is slightly thinner than a traditional alcoholic pale ale.
- The bitterness might be too subtle for hardcore hop heads.
Go Brewing Small Batch Non-Alcoholic Beer

The Suspended in a Sunbeam Pils is basically sunshine in a can for anyone living a mindful lifestyle. It’s built around Hallertau Mittelfrüh hops, which gives it this lovely floral and herbal aroma that hits you as soon as you crack it open.
Unlike some NA beers that taste like unfermented bread dough, this one has a crisp, clean finish that actually quenches your thirst. It’s a low-calorie brew, so it’s a great companion if you’re watching your intake but still want a ‘real’ drink at the BBQ.
Because it’s a small batch craft brew, the flavors feel intentional rather than mass-produced. It’s the ideal pick for someone who loves a light, refreshing pilsner profile but needs to stay sharp.
Just a heads-up: because it is so light and floral, it can feel a little bit delicate, so it might get overpowered if you’re eating really spicy or heavy food.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Hallertau hops provide a beautiful, authentic floral aroma.
- Very low calorie count makes it perfect for active lifestyles.
- The finish is exceptionally clean without any weird aftertaste.
- Freshness is guaranteed via the visible born-on-date coding.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- The flavor profile is very delicate and easily overwhelmed by food.
- Lacks the heavy carbonation bite some pilsner drinkers prefer.
Athletic Brewing Athletic Lite Non-Alcoholic Beer, 6-Pack

If you are looking for that classic, easy-drinking light beer experience without the alcohol, this is the one to grab. I think of it as the ultimate ‘fridge filler’ because it feels just like a traditional domestic lager.
It uses Noble hops and a mix of rice and malt to keep things incredibly light and crisp. At only 25 calories and 5 carbs, it is basically the lightest option you can find that actually still tastes like a fermented beverage.
It is perfect for someone who wants to stay hydrated during a BBQ or after a workout without feeling weighed down. The ingredient list is impressively short with only six natural ingredients, which I really appreciate.
However, because it is so focused on being ‘lite,’ the flavor profile is very thin. If you are a fan of bold, complex craft ales, you might find this a bit too watery or one-dimensional for your palate.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Extremely low calorie count at only twenty-five per can.
- The crisp rice and malt body mimics traditional light lagers.
- Clean ingredients list with no artificial additives or preservatives.
- Highly sessionable and refreshing for hot summer days.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- The flavor is very mild and can feel slightly watery.
- Lacks the complex bitterness found in traditional craft beers.
Best Day Brewing Non-Alcoholic Variety Pack, 12-Pack

This variety pack is the perfect solution if you get bored easily or are hosting a group with different tastes. You get to cycle through a rotating mix of styles, including a crisp Kölsch, a juicy Hazy IPA, and their unique Electro-Lime.
What stands out to me is that these are full-bodied craft beers that happen to be non-alcoholic, rather than just ‘beer-flavored water.’ They use non-GMO and vegan ingredients to maintain a satisfying mouthfeel that many low-calorie options lose during the dealcoholization process. It is a great choice for the craft beer enthusiast who is cutting back but still wants those bold hop profiles and tropical notes.
The downside here is the inconsistency of the ‘rotating’ pack; you might fall in love with a specific limited-edition style only to find it replaced by something else in your next order, which can be frustrating if you have a favorite.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Offers a wide range of styles from IPAs to Kölsch.
- Maintain a full-bodied mouthfeel despite being low calorie.
- Uses high-quality non-GMO and vegan ingredients throughout.
- Perfect for social gatherings where people have varying taste preferences.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- The rotating selection means your favorite flavor might be missing.
- Higher carbonation levels can feel a bit gassy to some.
Best Day Brewing Electro-Lime Mexican Style Lager, 12-Pack

If you are looking for a beer that tastes like a vacation in a can, this Electro-Lime Mexican Style Lager is a total winner. I was genuinely surprised by how much the fresh lime purée shines through without tasting like artificial candy.
It has that classic, crisp lager backbone, but the addition of sea salt gives it a savory finish that makes it incredibly crushable on a hot day. The Motueka hops add a nice tropical layer that keeps things interesting.
It is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to stay social at a BBQ without the heavy calories or the morning-after fog, especially since it is low carb and vegan. However, because of that salty, citrus-forward profile, it definitely feels more like a ‘summer specialty’ drink than a standard year-round beer.
If you aren’t a fan of lime-heavy drinks, the flavor might feel a bit dominant compared to a traditional plain lager.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Real lime purée provides a bright and authentic citrus punch.
- The sea salt addition creates a perfectly balanced, savory finish.
- Extremely low calorie and low carb for guilt-free drinking.
- Crisp mouthfeel that mimics a traditional Mexican lager perfectly.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- The lime flavor can be overpowering if you prefer subtle beers.
- Saltiness might be too intense for those sensitive to sodium.
Best Day Brewing West Coast Non-Alcoholic IPA, 12-Pack

For the hop-heads who are trying to cut back, this West Coast IPA really hits the mark. It captures that old-school California vibe using Cascade hops, which deliver those familiar citrus aromas and a clean, piney bitterness.
It doesn’t feel thin or watery like some other NA options; it has a full-bodied craft character that actually feels like a real beer in your hand. This is the one to grab if you miss the ‘bite’ of a traditional IPA but want to keep things low calorie and non-GMO.
It is perfect for a weeknight wind-down when you want the ritual of a cold one without the alcohol. The only real catch is the bitterness profile.
While it honors the West Coast style, it lacks the juicy sweetness found in Hazy IPAs, so it might feel a bit too sharp or ‘one-note’ for drinkers who prefer a more modern, fruity hop profile.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Classic Cascade hops deliver a nostalgic, piney citrus aroma.
- Surprisingly full-bodied texture that avoids the typical watery NA mouthfeel.
- Authentic bitterness that satisfies cravings for a real IPA.
- Clean finish makes it easy to drink multiple in one sitting.
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- The sharp bitterness might be too aggressive for casual drinkers.
- Lacks the complex fruitiness found in modern New England styles.
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Buying Guide
FAQs
Which option is best for someone on a strict keto or zero-carb diet?
Partake Brewing Craft is the standout for strict diets, as their IPA contains 0g of carbs and only 10 calories. While most non-alcoholic beers range from 50-100 calories, this is one of the few that truly mimics the ‘thin’ profile of a light lager while maintaining hop flavor.
I want a beer that tastes like a traditional craft brew; which should I choose?
Athletic Brewing Company is widely considered the gold standard for mouthfeel and body because they don’t strip the alcohol out after brewing. Their beers feel less ‘watery’ than other low-calorie options, though they do carry slightly more calories and carbs than the ultra-light brands.
Are there any low-calorie options that aren’t just IPAs or Lagers?
Best Day Brewing offers excellent variety, specifically with their Electro-Lime Mexican-style lager and Kolsch. The Electro-Lime is particularly refreshing because it uses real lime purée and sea salt, providing a complex flavor profile that doesn’t rely solely on hop bitterness.
What should I look for if I have gluten sensitivities?
You should specifically look for ‘gluten-removed’ or ‘gluten-conscious’ labels, such as those found on Go Brewing Freedom. They use enzymes like Clarex to break down gluten proteins, making them a safer choice for those with sensitivities compared to standard malt-heavy brews.
How do ‘low calorie’ non-alcoholic beers compare to ‘light’ alcoholic beers?
Most light alcoholic beers sit around 90-110 calories, whereas products like Athletic Lite or Go Brewing Non-Alcoholic often drop to 25-60 calories. You are essentially cutting the caloric intake in half while avoiding the metabolic slowdown caused by alcohol processing.
Does the brewing process affect the taste of these low-calorie beers?
Yes, look for ‘small batch’ or ‘proprietary’ brewing methods mentioned by brands like Go Brewing or Athletic Brewing. These methods typically focus on controlled fermentation to limit alcohol production naturally, which preserves the delicate esters and hop oils better than vacuum distillation.
What is the best way to store and serve these to ensure they taste fresh?
Non-alcoholic beers are more shelf-stable than they used to be, but because they lack alcohol as a preservative, you should drink them within 6 months of the pack date. Always serve them very cold, as the lack of alcohol can make ‘off’ flavors more apparent at room temperature.