Recharge and rehydrate with the best electrolyte powders and drinks for 2025

Hydration is more than just chugging water — it’s about balance, and that balance comes from electrolytes. Shockingly, it's estimated that up to 25% of older adults are chronically dehydrated, and here’s the kicker: When you're dehydrated, drinking more water without replenishing electrolytes can actually put you at a greater risk of electrolyte imbalance. So, if you’re sipping endlessly but still feeling fatigued, crampy or off your game, the best electrolyte powders might be the missing piece of the puzzle.

"Electrolytes help pull water into cells for hydration and facilitate muscle contraction," says Jaclyn Sklaver, CNS, LDN, a licensed dietitian specializing in functional sports nutrition. "Electrolytes are vital for energy production, heart health, pH balance and keeping your nervous system in check. Without them, all that water you’re guzzling might not even be hydrating you," she warns.

"Electrolyte powders are a simple, effective way to restore minerals and fluids lost through sweat, dehydration or illness," explains Amy Goldsmith, RD, sports dietitian and owner of Kindred Nutrition. She also adds that the right type and amount of electrolytes can help reduce cramping after a workout and support you when you're sick.

So, what makes an electrolyte powder truly great? To find out, I combined my certified functional nutrition expertise with insights from four registered dietitians. Over two months, I tested 16 different powders, evaluating taste, solubility and ingredient quality. After much sipping, stirring and studying, I’ve narrowed down the list to the seven best electrolyte powders and drinks in 2025. Ready to find your perfect hydration match? Let's go!

A note on supplements

The products included on this list are dietary supplements. Such supplements are regulated far less stringently by the FDA than medications, with little evaluation of safety or effectiveness before they go to market. Supplements may also interact with other medications and aren't appropriate for all populations or health conditions. While our health writers personally select and test products that are evidence-based, it's important to talk to your health care provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine.

Best overall electrolyte powder

More electrolyte powders and drinks we like for 2025

Types of electrolyte powders and drinks

Electrolyte drinks come in multiple forms to suit different preferences and needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:

• Sport hydration mixes: Designed for athletes and those engaging in high-intensity activities, these mixes typically contain higher amounts of sodium and carbohydrates, often in the form of sugar. They help replenish energy and electrolytes lost through intense sweat sessions or endurance sports.

• Sugar-free: These options provide electrolytes without the inclusion of added sugar. Sugar-free mixes are typically sweetened with calorie-free alternatives like stevia, monk fruit, sucralose or acesulfame potassium. Some also use sugar alcohols like allulose or erythritol.

• Daily hydration powders: Ideal for everyday hydration, these powders are mixed into water for a quick and easy electrolyte boost. They typically contain lower doses of electrolytes, making them suitable for maintaining hydration without overloading your system. Some have a touch of sugar, while others are completely sugar-free.

• Tablets: Effortless and convenient, electrolyte tablets dissolve in water within a minute or two. They’re easy to transport, mess-free and provide a consistent dose of electrolytes without requiring scooping or measuring.

• Liquid concentrates: These come in a liquid form and are often super concentrated, requiring just a few drops for a potent dose of electrolytes. They mix easily into beverages and are a great space-saving option for on-the-go hydration.

• Ready-to-drink: Perfect for grab-and-go convenience, these pre-mixed electrolyte drinks don’t require any preparation. While they’re less travel-friendly due to their bulk, they’re great when you want hydration without any fuss.

• Caffeinated options: Some electrolyte powders include caffeine, catering to those who need an energy boost along with hydration. These are typically marketed as energy-hydration hybrids. Always check the label for caffeine content, especially if you're avoiding stimulants.

• Natural and organic powders: Designed for those who prefer a more minimal approach, natural or organic electrolyte powders are free from artificial ingredients and fillers. They often feature fruit-derived flavors, coconut water powder and natural sweeteners like cane sugar, stevia or monk fruit.

Factors to weigh in purchasing electrolyte powders and drinks

Finding the right electrolyte powder for your needs can make a big difference in your hydration status and energy levels throughout the day. Here's what to consider when selecting the best electrolyte powder or drink:

Electrolyte content

One of the most important considerations is the electrolyte content and balance. According to Janeczek, key electrolytes (and amounts) to look for include:

• Sodium (300-700 mg per serving): Crucial for fluid retention and maintaining blood pressure

• Potassium (100-200 mg per serving): Balances sodium and supports muscle and nerve function

• Magnesium (10-50 mg per serving): Supports muscle function and reduces cramping

• Calcium (10-20 mg per serving): Assists in muscle contraction and nerve signaling

• Chloride (300-5700 mg per serving): Works with sodium to regulate fluid balance

Keep in mind that these are general guidelines. Goldsmith highlights that electrolyte needs vary by individual, explaining, "On average, people can lose about 500 mg of sodium per hour from sweat. When replenishing sodium, it's also important to restore potassium." Health guidelines recommend consuming less than 2,000 mg of sodium per day, while aiming for more than 3,510 mg of potassium daily.

To determine the right balance for your specific hydration and recovery needs, it's best to talk with a fitness or nutrition professional.

Flavor options

Electrolyte drinks come in a wide range of flavors, and many brands offer variety packs, allowing you to test a few flavors out before committing to a large container. Whenever possible, opt for powders made with natural flavors instead of artificial ones.

Sugar content

As a general guideline, our experts recommend avoiding sugar in electrolyte powders unless you're engaging in intense or endurance-based exercise. Sklaver explains that a small amount of carbohydrates can aid hydration by helping cells absorb electrolytes through the sodium-glucose co-transport mechanism in the gut. It can also provide an energy boost for workouts.

That said, too much sugar can be counterproductive, so aim to keep added sugar content below 7 g per serving unless your activity level demands more.

Caffeine content

Basic electrolyte powders typically don't contain caffeine, but if a product promises an energy boost, it’s worth double-checking the label. Caffeine-containing powders can be a good fit if you're looking for that extra kick and aren’t sensitive to caffeine. However, if you'd rather avoid the stimulant, opt for caffeine-free supplements instead.

Artificial ingredients

Artificial ingredients appear on the labels of many electrolyte drinks, so it’s essential to read the packaging carefully. Hulse advises, "Unfortunately, some electrolyte drinks contain excessive added sugar, artificial sweeteners, food dyes, coloring and more. As a registered dietitian, I believe that less is best!"

Ideally, choose electrolyte drinks with high-quality ingredients and steer clear of products that rely on artificial sweeteners, flavors or colors.

Intended use

Consider how you intend to use the electrolyte powder. Are you highly active, or is your lifestyle more sedentary? Will you be using it daily, or is it primarily for replenishing electrolytes after intense workout sessions? Use your answers to guide you to the right product.

For those with active lifestyles, a powder with a higher concentration of electrolytes may be best. On the other hand, if you’re simply seeking a hydration boost for everyday use, a less concentrated option might suit your needs.

Additional nutrients

While electrolytes are the main focus, many powders are fortified with nutrients like B vitamins, vitamin C and zinc, which can provide additional benefits if you're not getting enough of them in your diet. That said, products containing added nutrients could lead to excessive nutrient intake if you're already taking a multivitamin or other dietary supplement.

Third-party testing

Most electrolyte powders fall under the category of drinks rather than supplements, which means third-party testing is less common. However, I always appreciate it when a product is verified for quality, purity and potency by a third-party agency. When a brand goes the extra mile to include this testing, it’s an automatic advantage in my book.

Safe-for-sport certifications from NSF or Informed Sport are particularly important to look for if you're a competitive athlete.

Value

Naturally, your budget is an important consideration. Electrolyte supplements generally range from $0.70 to $2 per serving, but opting for the cheapest option isn’t always the best idea. Lower-priced powders often use lower-quality ingredients, such as artificial sweeteners and flavors. On the flip side, there’s no need to splurge on the priciest option either. Aim for a balance between price and quality, and choose a powder that delivers the best overall value for your needs.

How we chose electrolyte powders and drinks

Finding the best electrolyte powders started with expert advice. I consulted four registered dietitians, including two sports nutrition specialists, to determine the most effective ingredients and ideal electrolyte ratios. Combining their insights with my experience as a certified functional nutritionist, I researched more than two dozen products that met the recommended criteria for quality and performance.

From there, I selected 16 promising options to test. Each powder was mixed according to package instructions with the help of a milk frothing wand to ensure thorough blending. Over two months, I evaluated the products based on taste, solubility, ingredient quality and how they made me feel during and after use. My partner also joined the testing process, providing independent ratings for consistency.

After comparing results, I identified the seven top-performing electrolyte powders that excelled across all categories.

FAQs

What is the difference between sports drinks and electrolyte drinks?

The biggest difference is the sugar and carbohydrate content. "Sports beverages are marketed toward athletes, and as a result have a different makeup, usually including more sugar for energy during athletic performance," says Hulse. Conversely, electrolyte drinks often have less or no sugar and focus more on replenishing your mineral status, she explains.

Can electrolyte powders and drinks help with hangovers?

Yes and no. "They can help alleviate symptoms by replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes, particularly sodium and potassium, which may be depleted due to dehydration from alcohol consumption. However, they won’t directly address alcohol’s impact on liver function or fatigue," says Janeczek.

Should I choose an electrolyte drink instead of water?

Reaching for electrolytes rather than water depends on the situation. Janeczek notes that electrolyte drinks are more important during or after intense exercise, illness or heat exposure, when you need to replace electrolytes lost through sweat. But for day-to-day hydration needs, water is usually sufficient unless you have specific electrolyte deficiencies.

Can I have electrolyte drinks every day?

If you're in good health, having an electrolyte drink daily is generally fine, according to Sklaver. However, it's always a good idea to check with your doctor to ensure it’s suitable for your specific needs.

Is it better to drink electrolytes during or after a workout?

According to Sklaver, the ideal time to drink electrolytes is before a workout. "This is called pre-hydration and helps prevent dehydration," she explains. "Once you are already dehydrated, you have started the damage on a cellular level," she adds.

For optimal hydration, Sklaver suggests having an electrolyte drink about 45 minutes before exercising and continuing to sip during your workout.

Other products we tested

• Nuun: Nuun is a fan favorite, offering both tablets and powders with a solid electrolyte blend. While they dissolved and mixed seamlessly, the flavor didn't quite hit the mark for me. There's nothing objectively wrong with them — they just weren't my favorite.

• Laird Superfood Hydrate Coconut Water: I had high hopes for Laird powders because their ingredient list is the most impressive of the bunch. Unfortunately, the flavor didn't resonate with me. If you enjoy a mild, coconut-forward electrolyte powder, though, this might be a great fit for you.

• Salud Hydration: Salud Hydration powders had an excellent flavor profile and blended easily. However, the inclusion of sucralose was a deal-breaker for me. If you're OK with artificial sweeteners, these could be worth considering.

• Native Path Native Hydrate: This keto-friendly powder offers a good mix of electrolytes, but leans more toward a vitamin, mineral and amino acid powder than a dedicated electrolyte powder. The flavors were a little too sweet for my taste, but they mixed well.

• Tailwind Nutrition Rapid Hydration: Tailwind powders dissolved beautifully, but the flavor left me underwhelmed. It wasn't unpleasant, just lacking the boldness I prefer. Again, not a bad choice by any means, just not my favorite.

• Gnarly Hydrate: Gnarly's powders also fell short in the flavor department, feeling a bit bland overall. They could benefit from a touch more salt to enhance the taste. That said, they mixed well and were easy to prepare.

• Just Ingredients Electrolytes: These powders boast an impressive ingredient list with natural, often organic components and a well-balanced electrolyte blend suitable for daily hydration. However, the mix didn't dissolve well, had a slightly off-putting smell and the flavor was stronger than I'd prefer — it definitely needed watering down.

• Protekt Hydration Supplements: I love the concept of Protekt's liquid pouches, which make mixing a breeze. The fact that they're veteran-owned is also a big plus in my book. Unfortunately, the flavors weren't for me, and I noticed an aftertaste that detracted from the overall experience.

• Cure Hydration: Cure Hydration powders taste fantastic, with a wide variety of flavors and high-quality ingredients. That said, they're a little lacking in the electrolyte department, offering only potassium and sodium with no magnesium. If you're already taking a magnesium supplement, these could be a good addition.

Meet our experts

• Amy Goldsmith, RD, sports dietitian and owner of Kindred Nutrition

• Emily Hulse, RD, founder of Emily Grace Nutrition

• Katie Janeczek, RDN, LDN, registered dietitian nutritionist at Ciba Health

• Jaclyn Sklaver, CNS, LDN, licensed dietitian with a focus on functional medicine sports nutrition

Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.