Celsius is a better option for those seeking a sugar-free, higher caffeine energy drink with natural flavors, often used as a pre-workout supplement. Red Bull provides a quicker energy boost with a significant sugar content (unless opting for sugar-free versions) and is more traditionally used for improving alertness and concentration. The choice depends on individual preferences regarding sugar intake, caffeine levels, and flavor composition.
| Attribute | Celsius | Red Bull |
|---|---|---|
| Caffeine Content | Celsius and Celsius Vibe: 200 mg per 12 fl oz can; Celsius Essentials: 270 mg per 16 fl oz can; Celsius On-The-Go powders: 200 mg per packet; Celsius Heat: 300 mg per 12 fl oz can; Celsius BCAA: 100 mg per 12 fl oz can. | 80 mg per 8.4 fl oz (250 ml) can |
| Sugar Content | Zero | 27 grams per 8.4 fl oz (250 ml) can |
| Calorie Count | Around 10 calories per 12 fl oz can | Approximately 110 calories per 8.4 fl oz (250 ml) can, about 160 calories per 12 fl oz can |
| Electrolyte Content | Celsius Hydration powder sticks contain a blend of electrolytes, including 210mg of sodium, 700mg of potassium, and 65mg of magnesium. | Sodium bicarbonate and magnesium carbonate |
| Vitamin Content | Vitamin C, B vitamins (B3, B5, B6, B12), Other vitamins, including riboflavin and biotin | Niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 |
| Artificial Sweeteners | Sucralose. Some varieties may also contain Acesulfame Potassium. | Red Bull Sugarfree: acesulfame K and aspartame or sucralose; Red Bull Zero: monk fruit, erythritol, and sucralose |
| Natural vs. Artificial Flavors | No artificial flavors. Uses natural flavors. | Contains both natural and artificial flavors |
| Carbonation Level | Typically carbonated | Carbonated |
| Available Flavors | Sparkling Mango Lemonade, Sparkling Peach Vibe, Sparkling Tropical Vibe (starfruit and pineapple), Sparkling Arctic Vibe, Sparkling Strawberry Guava, Sparkling Watermelon Lemonade, Sparkling Galaxy Vibe (strawberry watermelon), Sparkling Astro Vibe (blue raspberry), Sparkling Cosmic Vibe (fruit punch), Sparkling Orange, Sparkling Lemon Lime, Sparkling Cola, Sparkling Kiwi Guava, Sparkling Wild Berry, Oasis Vibe (prickly pear and lime), Fantasy Vibe (mandarin and marshmallow), Sunset Vibe (mango, orange, and passionfruit), Fuji Apple Pear, Strawberry Lemonade, Grape Rush, Peach Mango Green Tea | Original, Sugarfree, Zero, Watermelon, Blueberry, Coconut & Berry, Apricot & Strawberry, Cherry & Wild Berries, Curuba-Elderflower, Seasonal and regional flavors |
| Price per Ounce | $0.12 - $0.14 per fl oz for 12-packs; $3.99 per can for a 6-count pack | Not available |
| Package Size Options | 12 fl oz cans, 16 fl oz cans (Celsius Heat and Celsius Essentials), On-The-Go powder packets, 4-packs, 6-packs, 12-packs, 18-count variety packs | 8.4 fl oz (250 ml), 12 fl oz (355 ml), 16 fl oz (473 ml), 20 fl oz (591 ml) |
| Ingredients List | Carbonated filtered water, Citric acid, Taurine, Guarana seed extract, Green tea extract, Caffeine, Sucralose, Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), Glucuronolactone, Ginger root extract, B vitamins, Natural flavors | Carbonated water, sucrose, glucose, citric acid, taurine, sodium bicarbonate, magnesium carbonate, caffeine, niacinamide, calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine HCl, vitamin B12, natural and artificial flavors and colors |
| Pros | Sustained energy boost without jitters or crash (attributed to natural ingredients), Variety of refreshing flavors, Enhances focus during workouts or work sessions (for some users), More affordable than some other energy drinks like Red Bull and Monster, Recommended as a pre-workout drink due to energy-boosting and metabolism-supporting properties | Provides a quick energy boost, Improves concentration and increases alertness, Enhances performance and stamina for athletes, Refreshing flavor |
| Cons | Some users report jitters, especially if sensitive to caffeine or consumed on an empty stomach, Some find certain flavors too sweet or artificial-tasting due to artificial sweeteners, Some individuals may experience gastric distress or digestive issues due to synthetic citric acid or artificial sweeteners, Can interfere with sleep if consumed close to bedtime, Primary concern is sucralose, an artificial sweetener, which some associate with potential health issues like gut bacteria disruption and blood sugar regulation problems | May induce agitation, anxiety, irritability, and insomnia with excessive consumption, Sugar content can lead to a sugar crash, Contains artificial flavors and colors, Artificial sweeteners in Sugarfree version linked to potential health risks, Can interfere with sleep if consumed later in the day |