In the world of energy drinks, there are seemingly endless options to choose from, varying in shape, size, flavor, and more. Choosing the right energy drink can feel overwhelming, especially when so many options have similar ingredients and caffeine levels.
To help you out, I’m going to compare two of the most popular zero-sugar energy drinks on the market from fitness-focused brands: Alani Nu and Celsius. Both come in a wide variety of flavors, are sold nearly everywhere, and are popular among caffeine connoisseurs.
As a certified nutrition coach who’s consumed countless energy drinks over the years (including both of the brands we’re comparing) I’ve got you covered. In this Alani Nu vs. Celsius comparison, I’ll break down the ingredients in these popular energy drinks, the key differences, and help you decide which popular fitness energy drink is the best choice for your goals.
Note: We’ve seen the recent press release announcing that Celsius Holdings recently acquired Alani Nutrition. However, this review will be based on the formulation of each beverage and our testing experience with both products, as the Alani Nu formulation remains unchanged at the time of writing.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider. GGR also recommends choosing a product that has been third-party tested for quality.
Alani Nu Energy Drink
Alani Nu Energy Drink
Product Highlights
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Vegan and gluten-free
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Subscribe-and-save options available
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30-day returns
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Wide range of flavors
- Zero sugar and low-calorie
- Contains B vitamins
- Vegan and gluten-free
Cons
- High caffeine content may not suit everyone
- Not third-party tested
- Subscription required for discounts
- Limited availability in some areas
Bottom Line
Alani Nu Energy Drink offers a flavorful energy boost without any sugar. This vegan-friendly energy drink packs 200 milligrams of caffeine and B vitamins in a low-calorie drink. It’s a great choice for those seeking variety and a healthier energy option, though its higher caffeine content may not be suitable for everyone.
Celsius Energy Drink
Celsius Energy Drink
Product Highlights
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Gluten-free and free of artificial colors
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Subscribe-and-save options available
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Not third-party tested
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Vegan-friendly and gluten-free
- No artificial colors
- Variety of flavors
- 200mg caffeine for energy
Cons
- Not third-party tested
- Higher caffeine content may not suit everyone
- Subscription required for discounts
- Availability may vary by location
Bottom Line
Celsius Energy Drink is tailored for fitness enthusiasts seeking a clean energy boost. With a GMO-free and vegan-friendly formulation in a wide variety of flavors, it’s a solid choice for active individuals and gym-goers—though its higher caffeine content of 200 milligrams per can may not be suitable for everyone.
Comparison Chart
| Alani Nu | Celsius | |
| Price per serving | $2.50 | $2.08 |
| Serving size | 12 fl oz (355mL) | 12 fl oz (355mL) |
| Flavors | 12 | 29 |
| Caffeine content | 200 mg | 200 mg |
| Sugar per serving | 0 g | 0 g |
| Sweeteners | Sucralose, acesulfame potassium | Sucralose |
| Other key ingredients | Ginseng root extract, taurine, theanine, L-carnitine tartrate, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, biotin, pantothenic acid | Green tea extract, ginger and guarana seed, taurine, theanine, L-carnitine tartrate, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, biotin, pantothenic acid, chromium |
Quick Look: Alani Nu vs. Celsius
Both energy drinks share a very similar formulation, but there are a few key differences that are worth considering when making your decision.
Who Should Buy Alani Nu
- Those who want fewer ingredients
- Anyone who doesn’t mind spending a little extra
- People who have tried and enjoy Alani Nu flavors
Who Should Buy Celsius
- Those shopping on a tighter budget
- Anyone who wants a higher dose of the added vitamins
- People who want more flavor options, including fizz-free beverages
Key Similarities Between Alani Nu and Celsius
- Both drinks contain 200mg of caffeine, as well as added vitamins and minerals for additional wellness benefits
- Both are sugar-free drinks that use artificial sweeteners to minimize calories
- For both energy drinks, you’re only consuming 10 calories per can
Important Differences Between Alani Nu and Celsius
- While retail pricing may vary, Alani Nu costs $2.49 per serving when ordering directly from the company, while Celsius only costs $2.08 per serving
- Alani Nu is available in 12 flavors, while the original Celsius formulation is available in 29 flavors, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from with either brand
- Celsius offers different variations of its original energy drink, including fizz-free and hydration beverages, while Alani Nu’s other options include traditional supplements like pre-workouts, BCAAs, protein powder, and more
Formulation
When it comes to the formulation, the main ingredients in both products are quite similar. Both energy drinks contain only 10 calories, and provide 200 mg of caffeine, which is a fairly standard dose among energy drinks. In addition to caffeine, both drinks contain ginseng root extract, taurine, theanine, and L-carnitine tartrate; however, only Celsius has added green tea extract for an extra energy boost.
However, aside from the caffeine, the other ingredients are listed in a proprietary blend without precise dosing information, so both drinks only earn 3 out of 5 for the formulation.
There are also smaller differences in the dosing of the vitamins and minerals, which vary slightly between brands.
Both energy drinks contain niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, biotin, and pantothenic acid, which are all various B vitamins. These are often used to promote energy production, however, according to Destini Moody, RD, CSSD, LD, most people get enough B vitamins from their diet, so adding more isn’t necessary.
The last formulation difference is the addition of chromium to the Celsius family. Chromium is thought to improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels. However, recent research1 shows that it has no effects on body composition in healthy individuals.
In other words, while chromium certainly isn’t a bad ingredient to add, healthy individuals likely won’t benefit from consuming it, so you don’t need to choose Celsius just for the added chromium.
Flavor Options
Considering the formulations are so similar, the flavor choices will likely settle the debate for most people.
Flavor is subjective, but it’s worth noting our testers rated Alani Nu higher in the flavor category, giving it 5 out of 5, while Celsius only earned 4 out of 5.
Amanda Dvorak, ISSA-CPT, ISSA-CNC, tested Alani Nu and loves the flavors.
“I got the Cosmic Stardust flavor for testing purposes, but I’ve had several other flavors of Alani Nu in the past: Cherry Slush, Hawaiian Shaved Ice, Breezeberry, Watermelon Wave, and Juicy Peach,” Amanda explains. “There are some I’ve preferred over others, but I’ve enjoyed every one. My absolute favorite Alani flavor is Witches’ Brew, a seasonal fall flavor that’s candy-apple flavored. I was skeptical about it but it is probably my favorite flavor energy drink ever, not just from Alani Nu.”
However, while Alani Nu has 12 flavors and regularly releases seasonal flavors and new releases, Celsius has 29 different flavors, including a variety of fizz-free, non-carbonated options.
As someone who has tried most of the Alani energy drinks and probably 10+ Celsius flavors over the years, I’d agree that Alani Nu has a better taste. Certain Celsius flavors left a bit of a bitter aftertaste for me, but I’ve never had this with Alani Nu.
Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1, tried Celsius, and agreed. “I’ve tried several flavors recently, as my gym sells these cans. Peach Vibe was my favorite, although they all have a bit of an artificial tang to me. I think it’s the sucralose. It’s not my favorite taste, but it’s not bad, just not my first pick,” he says.
Overall, we think that Alani Nu has better flavors, but Celsius offers more than twice as many flavors, so you’ll have a wider range of options to choose from if you opt for Celsius.
Company Policies
With both Alani Nu and Celsius, you won’t have a problem finding them. They’re sold in most gas stations, grocery stores, and convenience stores, and both drinks are also available on Amazon.
Alani Nu also sells energy drinks directly through its website, while Celsius’ website redirects to Wal-Mart.
You will likely need to follow the return policy of the individual company or retailer, unless you order directly from Alani Nu, which states that all beverage sales are final, so returns are not accepted.
Both companies offer contact forms that you can use if you need to reach out, and Alani Nu features a live chat option on its website. Both Alani and Celsius also seem active on social media, so you may be able to reach them on Instagram, or other platforms.
Final Thoughts
Both Alani Nu and Celsius are popular, great-tasting energy drinks that are available in a variety of flavors, easy to find, and both contain a 200mg dose of caffeine, along with added vitamins, minerals, and other ingredients to enhance their effects.
The formulations are very similar for both energy drinks, with minor differences that won’t make a significant difference for most people. The primary difference is the flavors.
Celsius has more than twice as many flavors to choose from, but our testers agreed that most Alani Nu flavors are better, although taste is subjective.
Overall, you can’t go wrong with either option, so my advice is to buy a can or two of both to see which you like better before ordering a whole case.
Alani Nu vs Celsius: FAQs
Is Alani Nu better for you than Celsius?
No, both Alani Nu and Celsius are low in calories, contain the same amount of caffeine, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. Both energy drinks also use artificial sweeteners, so those who choose to avoid sweeteners will likely need to skip both products.
Is Alani owned by Kim Kardashian?
No, Alani Nu was founded by fitness entrepreneur and influencer Katy Hearn, and acquired by Celsius in 2025. Alani Nu released a special energy in collaboration with Kim Kardashian, but she does not own the brand.
What in Alani Nu is bad for you?
Most of the ingredients in Alani Nu are included in safe doses. Some users who wish to avoid artificial sweeteners may need to find an alternative beverage. Those sensitive to caffeine or any of the individual ingredients should consult a physician before consuming Alani Nu or any other energy drink.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
References
- Maret W. (2019). Chromium Supplementation in Human Health, Metabolic Syndrome, and Diabetes. Metal ions in life sciences, 19, /books/9783110527872/9783110527872-015/9783110527872-015.xml. https://doi.org/10.1515/9783110527872-015
