If you’re here, you’re probably considering making the switch from traditional canned energy drinks to powdered ones (or already have!) —and I’ve been right where you are. A few years ago, I found myself in a bit of health trouble because of the amount of energy drinks I was drinking (even though I only had a couple of day!), and when I tried to just quit, I was a bit overwhelmed by how much I relied on energy drinks. I was sweating when I would see them, and my heart would race like an addict (embarrassing to admit, but it is true). This was a huge wake-up call for me to try and change my habits.
Like many, I was curious about powdered energy drinks but didn’t know where to start. The idea of swapping my familiar go-to brands for a mix-it-yourself powder didn’t seem appealing to me. There were so many questions: Are they any good? How do you even make them? Will they give me the same boost? Are they just as bad for you?
That’s exactly why I put together this guide—because I didn’t have something like this when I started, and it was a bit overwhelming to navigate on my own. My goal here is to share everything I’ve learned through trial and error, helping you feel more confident about making the switch, without all the guesswork. Whether you’re trying to kick a bad energy drink habit or just want to find something that works better for you, I’ve got you covered (I’ll also keep this page updated regularly when I find out new things!).
Let’s dive in!
Quick Links in this article:
- What is the difference between normal energy drinks and powdered energy drinks?
- Can I use powdered energy drinks to kick the energy drink habit?
- Are powdered energy drinks healthier than regular energy drinks?
- What is the best energy drink for gamers?
- Are powdered energy drinks cheaper?
- Are powdered energy drinks more eco-friendly?
- How do you use powdered energy drinks?
- How long do powdered energy drinks last? (Shelf-life and usability)
- How do I get started?
- How do you clean your shaker?
- What energy powder has the most caffeine?
What is the difference between normal energy drinks and powdered energy drinks?
At first glance, energy drinks in a can and powdered energy drinks might seem similar in function. They both promise a quick energy boost, focus, and that extra push you need. But when you look a little closer, there are some key differences that can really change your experience, both in terms of health, and convenience.
1. Ingredients
One of the biggest differences is the level of control you have over what you’re consuming. Canned energy drinks come pre-mixed, with set amounts of caffeine, sugar, and other ingredients. This means you don’t have much say in what goes into your body. Some canned drinks are loaded with sugars, and other additives that can lead to crashes or unwanted side effects.
With powdered energy drinks, you control the mix. You can adjust how strong or weak you want your drink by adding more or less powder. Most powdered options also come with cleaner ingredients and avoid the high sugar content found in cans. They include additional vitamins, minerals, and adaptogens (natural compounds that help your body adapt to stress), giving you a healthier alternative overall, and one of the best things I’ve found is that there isn’t that crash you get with canned energy drinks!
2. Price and Convenience
Let’s talk money. Buying canned energy drinks regularly adds up fast. Each can is typically a single serving, so you’re paying for individual cans, packaging, and shipping if you’re ordering online. Over time, this can cost quite a bit, especially if you’re drinking them daily (like me!).
Powdered energy drinks, on the other hand, usually come in larger containers or packets that give you multiple servings. They are usually the most cost-effective option, especially if you are used to drinking Red Bull or Monster! One of my favourite parts is how convenient they are! I go through a lot of energy drinks in a week, so that used to involve a mountain of cans in the house, the full recycling bins and the bother of humphing the cans home from the shop constantly! Now I can have hundreds of servings in a small tub!
5. Taste and Variety
Some people are die-hard fans of canned energy drink flavors, like Monster or Red Bull (I was for Monster!). And while those brands have nailed their signature tastes, powdered energy drinks offer a bit of a different flavour experience. You can find everything from fruity flavors to more subtle options, and everything in between. You can also adjust the strength of the flavor to your liking by adding more or less water.
While it can take some experimenting to find the right powder that matches your flavor preference, I found that the powdered drinks offered a much bigger range of choices and I could choose what kind of flavour I fancied, without the hassle of going to the shops!
Can I use powdered energy drinks to kick the energy drink habit?
If you’re trying to cut back on traditional energy drinks, switch to something better for you, or kick the habit entirely, powdered energy drinks can be a fantastic alternative. Like me, you might have found yourself relying on canned energy drinks daily, but perhaps you’ve noticed the downsides—too much sugar, energy crashes, or maybe even health concerns, like high blood pressure (that was my sad result!). Switching to powdered energy drinks can help you regain control over what you’re consuming, while still giving you the energy boost you’re after.
Powdered energy drinks offer more flexibility and often come with cleaner ingredients, which can help reduce the dependency on highly processed, sugary canned drinks. They allow you to gradually reduce your intake of stimulants by adjusting the dosage of powder you use, making them a helpful tool for weaning off traditional energy drinks.
How do powdered energy drinks taste compared to canned drinks?
One concern many people have when considering a switch to powdered drinks is how they’ll taste compared to the familiar flavours of canned energy drinks (I did too). It’s true that many of us get attached to the specific tastes of our favourite brands, like Monster or Red Bull and trying something completely different, doesn’t feel like it will curb the craving for a canned energy drink.
The good news is, powdered energy drinks have come a long way in terms of flavour. You’ll find everything from fruity options to flavours that mimic the sweetness of popular energy drinks. Some powders may have a slightly different texture or flavour intensity, but because you can control the water-to-powder ratio, you can adjust it to your liking.
I really must stress that it if the first flavour you try isn’t for you, you must not stop at that! I don’t that about 5 years ago because I thought all of the powdered energy drinks were the same as the first one that I tried (I hated it), and now I completely regret that decision. I would literally have saved deterioration in my eyes if I had tried more flavours back then (my high blood pressure caused irreversible damage to my eyes!) It might take a little experimentation, but you’ll likely find a flavour and mix that suits you.
Is there an energy drink that tastes like Monster?
There are those online that say that the flavour ‘Stealth’ by Sneak is as close to the taste of Original Monster Energy flavour, but for me, it tastes nothing like it (sorry, I’m just being honest!). There are however flavours that I found similar to Monster’s Mango Loco (that was my favourite). Most of the brands do a mango flavour, but I preferred Wraith’s Slayer Mango and Sneak’s Hair of the Dog as a gateway into the Powdered Energy world! You can view my guide that I review all of the tastes of all the brands that I find, if that helps.
Is there an energy drink that tastes like Red Bull?
Red Bull’s flavour is hard to replicate exactly, but to be honest. No is the answer. I haven’t found any that even come close!
Can you mix powdered energy drinks with fizzy drinks or sparkling water?
Yes, you can! One of the great things about powdered energy drinks is how versatile they are. If you prefer the fizzy experience of canned energy drinks, mixing your powder with sparkling water is a great option. It gives you that refreshing fizz without the extra sugar or calories often found in pre-made drinks. Some people even mix powdered energy drinks with diet drinks to add a bit of sweetness or additional flavour, but it’s worth experimenting to find the right balance that works for you. Personally, I don’t think it works that well together, but I’ve gotten used to the texture of the water-only way!
Are powdered energy drinks healthier than regular energy drinks?
When it comes to choosing between powdered energy drinks and regular canned versions, one of the biggest questions I had, was whether powdered options are actually healthier. While the answer can depend on the specific brands and ingredients you’re comparing, powdered energy drinks generally offer some key advantages that make them a healthier choice.
1. Lower in Sugar and Calories
One of the main issues with traditional canned energy drinks is the high sugar content (let’s be honest the diet and zero versions just aren’t as nice!). Many popular brands pack their drinks with added sugars to create that sweet taste we’re used to. While this might give you a quick energy spike, it’s often followed by a crash, not to mention the long-term health risks associated with too much sugar, such as weight gain and increased risk of diabetes.
Powdered energy drinks, on the other hand, are sugar-free or low-sugar, giving you more control over your intake. You can choose flavours that don’t rely on sugar for taste, which reduces your calorie intake and helps you avoid that sugar crash later on.
2. Fewer Artificial Ingredients
Many regular energy drinks contain a laundry list of artificial ingredients—preservatives, flavours, and colours that help extend shelf life or create a more intense flavour. While these ingredients aren’t always harmful in small amounts, some people prefer to avoid them, especially if they’re looking to make healthier lifestyle choices.
Powdered energy drinks often contain fewer artificial additives because they don’t need to stay shelf-stable in a can for long periods. Many brands also focus on cleaner, more natural ingredients like plant-based caffeine sources, vitamins, and amino acids. This makes powdered drinks a great choice for those wanting to cut down on processed ingredients.
3. Customisable Caffeine Levels
Canned energy drinks come with a set amount of caffeine, which can sometimes be more than you need. Drinking too much caffeine in one go can lead to jitters, anxiety, or difficulty sleeping, and in the long run, it can contribute to health issues like high blood pressure.
With powdered energy drinks, you control the dosage. You can adjust how much powder you use, which lets you fine-tune your caffeine intake. This flexibility is a big advantage if you’re trying to cut back on caffeine or just want a mild boost without going overboard. On the other hand, if you really need a boost of caffeine, you can up the dosage too!
4. Additional Nutritional Benefits
Many powdered energy drinks go beyond just caffeine and sugar. They often include extra ingredients like B-vitamins, electrolytes, amino acids (such as taurine and L-citrulline), and adaptogens like ashwagandha or ginseng, which can help with energy, focus, and stress management. These added nutrients can support overall health, making powdered drinks not just a source of quick energy but also a way to replenish your body with important nutrients. I personally have felt the benefits of this and having introduced a lot of people in my personal life and through this website, I can testify to this being a significant difference!
5. No Bloating!
Because powdered energy drinks are mixed with water, you’re not consuming extra additives needed for the carbonation or preservation found in many canned drinks. This can mean fewer irritants for your digestive system or issues like bloating, which some people experience with fizzy energy drinks.
What is the best energy drink for gamers?
In the gaming world, maintaining focus, reaction time, and endurance is essential, especially during long gaming sessions. That’s why energy drinks have become so popular among gamers. However, not all energy drinks are created equal, and for those looking to maximise their gaming performance, powdered energy drinks have emerged as a popular choice. So, what makes a good energy drink for gamers, and which ones stand out?
1. Ingredients That Boost Focus and Endurance
When choosing an energy drink for gaming, the key ingredients to look out for are those that not only provide a caffeine boost but also support mental clarity and sustained focus. Caffeine is great for keeping you alert, but ingredients like L-theanine, taurine, and nootropics (brain-boosting compounds) can really help improve focus without the jittery feeling that high-caffeine drinks sometimes cause.
Many powdered energy drinks designed for gamers are packed with B-vitamins, which support energy production, as well as adaptogens like ashwagandha, which help manage stress during intense gameplay. These blends are specifically formulated to improve cognitive function, reaction time, and concentration, making them a great fit for competitive gaming.
2. Avoiding the Crash
One of the common complaints about traditional energy drinks is the dreaded “crash” that follows the initial energy spike. This happens when drinks are loaded with sugar, leading to a short burst of energy followed by a rapid drop. For gamers, a sudden crash in energy and focus can mean losing concentration right when you need it most.
Most powdered energy drinks for gamers are designed to minimise the crash by using either sugar-free formulas or low-glycaemic sweeteners like stevia. This helps provide sustained energy throughout your gaming session without the sudden drop-off that can hurt your performance.
3. Hydration and Endurance
Many powdered energy drinks include electrolytes to help with hydration. Staying hydrated is key for endurance, especially during long gaming marathons where dehydration can lead to headaches, fatigue, and slower reaction times. Powdered drinks that contain electrolytes help maintain hydration, keeping you feeling energised and ready to perform at your best.
4. Popular Brands Among Gamers
Some powdered energy drink brands have become particularly popular in the gaming world. For instance, G Fuel & Sneak are the most well-known brands, geared towards gamers and esports players. It contains a mix of caffeine, antioxidants, and focus-enhancing ingredients that make it a go-to for competitive gaming.
Are powdered energy drinks cheaper?
One of the key reasons people switch to powdered energy drinks is the potential for saving money. When compared to traditional canned energy drinks, powdered options tend to offer better value for several reasons.
1. Cost Per Serving
The price of a single canned energy drink can quickly add up, especially if you’re consuming them regularly. A typical can of a popular energy drink like Red Bull or Monster can cost between £1.50 and £2.50, depending on where you buy it. If you’re drinking one or more a day, that quickly becomes a significant expense.
In contrast, powdered energy drinks are sold in tubs or packets that usually contain multiple servings. For example, a tub might cost around £30 but provide up to 30 or more servings, which works out to roughly £1 or less per serving. This means you can get more drinks for your money, making powdered energy drinks the more economical choice in the long run.
2. Customisable Dosages
One of the great advantages of powdered energy drinks is that you control the amount you use. If you don’t need a full-strength drink, you can simply use less powder, stretching your supply even further!
3. Subscription Discounts
Many powdered energy drink brands offer subscription services or bulk buying options, which can further reduce the cost per serving. By subscribing, you can often lock in discounts or receive free shipping, adding to the overall savings. This isn’t something you typically get with canned drinks, where you’re often paying full price every time you buy.
Are powdered energy drinks more eco-friendly?
As more of us become aware of the environmental impact of our daily choices, it’s natural to wonder if switching to powdered energy drinks could be a greener option. The good news is that, in many ways, powdered energy drinks tend to be more eco-friendly than traditional canned energy drinks. Here’s why:
1. Reduced Packaging Waste
One of the most significant environmental advantages of powdered energy drinks is the reduction in packaging. Traditional energy drinks come in single-use cans, which, although recyclable, still contribute to significant waste. The energy and resources required to produce and recycle aluminium cans can be substantial, especially when you consider the millions of cans consumed every day.
Powdered energy drinks, on the other hand, come in bulk containers or individual sachets, which means far less packaging per serving. A single tub of powder can last for 30 or more servings, which dramatically reduces the amount of waste compared to buying 30 individual cans. This reduction in packaging means fewer materials are used and less waste ends up in landfills or recycling plants.
2. Lower Carbon Footprint in Transportation
Canned drinks are heavy and bulky, requiring more fuel to transport them from manufacturing plants to stores or consumers’ homes. The weight of the liquid inside, combined with the aluminium cans, increases the overall carbon footprint of transporting traditional energy drinks.
In contrast, powdered energy drinks are lighter and more compact. Shipping a tub of powder is far more efficient than shipping a large number of cans. This means fewer emissions from transportation, which reduces the overall carbon footprint of getting the product from the manufacturer to you. For those looking to lower their environmental impact, this is a significant advantage.
3. Less Energy-Intensive Production
The production process for canned drinks involves not only creating the liquid product but also manufacturing the cans, filling them, and sealing them for transport. This multi-step process requires a considerable amount of energy and resources, from mining aluminium to cooling the drinks before shipping.
Powdered drinks simplify this process. The lack of a liquid component and fewer packaging materials mean that less energy is used in the manufacturing process. Additionally, since the product is shipped in a more concentrated form, there’s less need for energy-intensive refrigeration or cooling during transportation.
4. Longer Shelf Life and Less Waste
Canned energy drinks have a limited shelf life, and once you open a can, you need to finish it fairly quickly. This can sometimes lead to waste, especially if you don’t finish the whole can or if it goes out of date before you consume it.
Powdered energy drinks, however, generally have a longer shelf life and can be mixed as needed. This means less risk of product waste since you’re only making what you plan to drink. You can also control how much powder you use, which further reduces waste compared to opening an entire can and not finishing it.
5. Recyclability of Packaging
While the packaging for powdered energy drinks, such as tubs or sachets, may not always be as easily recyclable as aluminium cans, the overall amount of waste produced is far lower. Some brands are even moving towards more eco-friendly packaging solutions, such as biodegradable sachets or recyclable tubs, to further reduce their environmental impact.
How do you use powdered energy drinks?
Using powdered energy drinks is simple and convenient, but there are a few tips to get the best results, especially if you’re new to them. Unlike canned energy drinks that come pre-mixed, powdered energy drinks give you the flexibility to prepare your drink just the way you like it. Whether you’re after a quick boost or a sustained release of energy, the process is quick and adaptable to your preferences.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Powdered Energy Drinks:
- Get Your Tools Ready: All you need is a container, such as a shaker bottle or a standard water bottle, and your chosen powdered energy drink. Powders come with a scoop to measure out the correct serving size or are the serving size if you buy a sachet.
- Add Water First: It’s generally easier to add water to your shaker or bottle first before the powder. This prevents the powder from clumping at the bottom.
- Scoop the Powder: Use the provided scoop to measure out the recommended serving size. Usually, a single serving is one scoop, but be sure to check the packaging, to make sure.
- Mix Well: If you’re using a shaker bottle, give it a good shake for about 10-15 seconds until the powder is fully dissolved. If you’re using a water bottle without a shaker, just shake it up as best you can, or stir it thoroughly if you’re mixing in a glass.
- Enjoy!: Once it’s mixed, you’re good to go. You can drink it all at once or sip it over time depending on how much of an energy boost you need.
What Is the Best Mix with Water Ratio?
With experience, I completely ignore the recommended water ratio from the manufacturer. I’m surprised that nearly every brand gets this so completely wrong, in my opinion!
Standard Ratio: A typical recommendation is to mix one scoop of powder with 300-400 ml of water. This ratio is far too strong and I think it would put a lot of people off trying anything else in the industry! My recommendation would be to mix one scoop of powder with 500-600 ml of water.
How long do powdered energy drinks last? (Shelf-life and usability)
One of the advantages of powdered energy drinks is their longer shelf life compared to ready-to-drink canned options. This makes them a convenient choice for people who want to buy in bulk or those who only need an occasional energy boost. However, understanding their shelf life and how to store them properly is key to getting the most out of your powder.
1. Unopened Shelf Life
Powdered energy drinks typically have a long unopened shelf life, often lasting between 1 to 2 years. The exact expiry date will usually be printed on the packaging, and as long as the powder remains sealed in its original container, it should retain its potency and freshness throughout this time.
This extended shelf life is due to the lack of liquid in the product, which reduces the risk of bacterial growth or spoilage. Unlike canned drinks, which can expire more quickly due to the liquid content, powders are designed to be stored for the long term without losing their effectiveness.
It’s important to note that although the expiry date on the tub is only a guide. It has been confirmed from Sneak that you can still use expired product with no problems at all, as long as it smells and looks fine!
2. Once Opened
Once you’ve opened a tub or packet of powdered energy drink, the product can still last a long time if stored correctly. Generally, an opened tub will stay fresh for 6 to 12 months, but this can vary depending on the brand and storage conditions. After this period, the powder may start to lose its potency, flavour, or consistency, but it’s unlikely to become unsafe to consume unless exposed to moisture.
To extend the life of your opened powdered energy drink:
- Keep it sealed tightly: Make sure the container is tightly closed after each use to prevent air and moisture from getting in.
- Store in a cool, dry place: Heat and humidity can cause the powder to clump or degrade faster, so it’s best to store it in a cool, dry cupboard or pantry.
- Avoid moisture: Moisture is the enemy of powdered products. If the powder gets wet, it can clump together, making it harder to mix and less effective. Always use a clean, dry scoop, and avoid storing the powder in humid areas, like near a sink or in a steamy kitchen. (the tubs typically come with silica gel packets to boost their life!)
3. Prepared Drinks
Once you’ve mixed your powder with water, the shelf life becomes much shorter. Ideally, you should drink your prepared energy drink within a few hours of mixing it. While it can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours, it’s best to consume it fresh to ensure the full effectiveness of the caffeine and other active ingredients. Over time, the flavour may degrade, and certain ingredients, like caffeine, may lose their potency.
4. Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Powder
If you’re unsure whether your powdered energy drink has gone off or lost its effectiveness, there are a few signs to look out for:
Loss of flavour: If the drink doesn’t taste as good or as strong as it once did, it could be past its prime, though still safe to drink.
Clumping: If the powder has become clumpy or sticky, it may have absorbed moisture and could be less effective.
Change in smell: A stale or off smell can indicate that the powder is no longer fresh.
How do I get started?
If you think you are ready to take the leap. Here’s how you can begin your journey into the world of powdered energy drinks:
1. Choose the Right Brand
There are many brands of powdered energy drinks on the market, each offering different benefits, flavours, and ingredients. Some are specifically tailored to gamers or athletes, while others focus on providing clean energy without artificial additives. Take some time to explore which brand aligns with your needs—whether it’s for sustained focus during long gaming sessions or a quick energy boost before a workout.
2. Decide on Your Preferred Flavour and Ingredients
Once you’ve chosen a brand, the next step is selecting a flavour. Most brands offer a wide range of flavours, from fruity to sour candy. Consider your preferences and try a starter pack if the brand offers one, as this allows you to sample a few different flavours before committing to a larger tub.
Additionally, check the ingredients list. Some powders contain added vitamins, electrolytes, or nootropics to enhance focus and hydration, which can be beneficial depending on your energy needs.
3. Do you need a shaker?
While you don’t absolutely need a shaker (you can use a regular bottle), having one makes the process easier. Here’s why using a shaker can improve your experience:
1.Ease of scooping
Scooping your powder into a regular bottle will take longer and is nearly guaranteed to cause frustration (I’ve been there!). Just think about the little spillages of powder over your hands, the bottle and the worktop!
2. Better mixing
Although any brand worth their salt has a formula that will disolve with not much shaking needed (the metal mixing balls and gadets in there, are basically for show these days!). That being said, you do still need to give the drink a shake so that the powder gets a chance to dissolve properly. Doing this in a regular bottle will require you to remove water past the neck of the bottle to be able to do this properly.
3. Customising your drink
With a regular bottle, it is much more difficult to adjust your measurements if you need to make the drink stronger! If you add an extra scoop, it will likely be too strong, with no way to add more water or adjust the water level to your preferred liking!
How do you clean your shaker?
It might seem like a silly question, but almost everyone who drinks from a shaker will have this question in mind! The last thing you want is to end up with some black mould forming inside your shaker without you knowing (it’s common!). This usually goes unnoticed if you have a black shaker too!
Hand Wash
Most of the time it is fine to just wash it like you normally would any other tumbler or cup (washing up liquid in the sink). The best advice I can give you is to make sure that you get right into the shaker (I use a baby bottle brush), and also try to leave it on a drying rack, rather than upside down on a flat surface, so that it can air properly.
Is it dishwasher-safe?
The real answer here is, it depends. Some of the shakers are completely fine to use in the dishwasher, but some plastics (especially clear shakers) will completely warp. If you don’t mind the consequences, go for it. But if you are precious about a specific shaker, I wouldn’t chance it!
Milton Tabs
One of the best ways to make sure that your shaker is clean is to use Milton tablets. These ensure that you get rid of any bacteria to prevent that black mould forming!
Personally, I hand wash my tubs each day and put them in a basin with Milton tabs once a week and don’t have any issues!
What energy powder has the most caffeine?
If you’re looking for a serious caffeine kick, not all energy powders are created equal. The caffeine content in powdered energy drinks can vary significantly depending on the brand and the specific product. Whether you need a strong boost for intense gaming sessions, late-night studying, or high-energy workouts, finding the right powder with a high caffeine content can make a big difference.
Caffeine Levels in Popular Brands
Some of the most popular powdered energy drink brands cater to different levels of caffeine needs. Here’s a breakdown of some of the energy powders with the highest caffeine content per serving:
- G Fuel: One of the most popular brands among gamers in America, G Fuel contains 140 mg of caffeine per serving. It strikes a balance between providing a solid energy boost without going overboard for most people. It’s designed to keep you alert and focused during long gaming sessions without the crash associated with high-sugar energy drinks.
- Sneak Energy: Another favourite in the gaming community, Sneak Energy also offers 150 mg of caffeine per serving, making it comparable to G Fuel. It’s known for its zero-sugar formula and a variety of bold, enjoyable flavours.
- Wraith Energy: If you’re looking for something stronger, Wraith Energy offers 200 mg of caffeine per serving. It’s a popular choice for those needing a bit more kick, especially athletes and high-performance gamers.
- Glytch Energy: The strongest caffeine dose per serving that I have found is Glytch Energy, with 225 mg of caffeine per serving. This makes it one of the stronger powdered energy drinks, ideal for those who need a powerful boost to stay sharp and energised for extended periods.
If there is something that I’ve not covered, but you would like to ask me, please get in touch and I will be happy to give you my advice and add it to the page for others!
John Gorevan built GeekyGorevan.co.uk to be the UK’s go-to hub for nostalgic geek culture and no-nonsense energy drink reviews. His in-depth guides and collector deep-dives have helped over 18,000 readers uncover hidden gems, dodge marketing hype, and reconnect with the best parts of their childhood.
