TL;DR
Wired updated its roundup of electrolyte powders in January 2026 after tasting products and consulting experts, naming Liquid I.V. its top pick and adding new options from Buoy and Quince. The guide highlights choices for different needs—athletes, hangovers, low‑calorie or flavorless options—and stresses matching sodium, carbohydrates and sugar levels to your situation.
What happened
Wired's buyer's guide evaluated a range of electrolyte powders and formats—powders, drops, and chewable tablets—by tasting them and speaking with experts, then published an updated list in January 2026 that added new entries from Buoy and Quince. The guide singled out Liquid I.V. as the best overall option for everyday use; Skratch Labs’ Hydration Sport Drink Mix for athletes who need higher carbohydrate and calorie content; SaltStick Electrolyte FastChews for on‑the‑go dosing; and Buoy for unflavored, sugar‑free drops. Nutrition details accompany the recommendations: Liquid I.V. contains about 500 mg sodium, 13 g carbohydrates and 11 g sugars per serving, Skratch Labs is higher in calories and carbs (about 80 calories and 20 g carbs), SaltStick chews are low‑calorie with roughly 100 mg sodium per chew, and Buoy drops are marketed as flavorless and calorie‑free. The guide also flags differences in sweetness, flavor variety, and ingredient‑free claims (for example, some products avoid artificial sweeteners or colors).
Why it matters
- Electrolyte needs vary by activity and condition—sodium and carbohydrate levels that help during endurance exercise can be excessive for routine rehydration.
- Sugar and calorie content differ widely across products, so choice affects both hydration strategy and daily nutrient intake.
- Format and convenience (powder packets, chews, or drops) influence how and when people will actually use a product.
- Third‑party testing and ingredient transparency matter for consumers who want to avoid additives or contaminants.
Key facts
- Liquid I.V. is Wired’s top pick for most people and lists about 500 mg sodium, 370 mg potassium, 13 g total carbohydrates and 11 g sugars per serving.
- Skratch Labs Hydration Sport Drink Mix is positioned for athletes and contains around 80 calories, 20 g total carbohydrates and 19 g sugars per serving.
- SaltStick Electrolyte FastChews are chewable tablets with roughly 100 mg sodium, 2 g carbohydrates and 10 calories per serving, designed for frequent dosing during intense workouts.
- Buoy offers several unflavored 'drops' varieties (Hydration, Rescue, Energy, Immunity, Digestion, Brain Health) with no sugar or calories; manufacturer recommends about one squeeze per 12‑ounce glass.
- Buoy reports third‑party testing for absence of microplastics, molds and pathogens, heavy metals, and GMO ingredients, per the guide.
- Electrolit is recommended by the reviewer for hangovers; a serving has about 330 mg sodium, 370 mg potassium and 10 g sugars, but the product includes artificial coloring.
- Celsius Hydration Drink Mix is listed as a budget option; the guide notes occasional difficulty opening packets but otherwise recommends it as a lower‑cost choice.
- Wired evaluated products by taste and expert input and updated the guide in January 2026 to refresh listings and links.
What to watch next
- Match sodium and carbohydrate levels to your situation—higher sodium/carbs for prolonged or intense exercise, lower levels for routine rehydration or hangovers.
- Follow manufacturer serving instructions carefully (Buoy suggests one squeeze per 12‑oz glass), since dosing affects taste and concentration.
- not confirmed in the source: long‑term health impacts of daily electrolyte supplement use across different populations.
Quick glossary
- Electrolyte: A mineral (like sodium, potassium, chloride) that carries an electric charge and helps regulate fluid balance and muscle function.
- Sodium: An electrolyte that helps maintain blood volume and nerve and muscle function; often the main mineral lost in sweat.
- Carbohydrates: Nutrients that provide energy; some electrolyte drinks include carbs to support prolonged exercise.
- Third‑party testing: Independent laboratory verification of product attributes or contaminants, performed by an external organization.
- Hydration format: The delivery form of electrolytes—powder, chew, tablet, or liquid drops—which affects portability and dosing.
Reader FAQ
Should I just drink plain water instead of electrolyte powders?
The guide emphasizes daily water intake remains important and that powders help replace electrolytes lost through sweat or dehydration; they are not a substitute for drinking water.
Which electrolyte powder is best for athletes?
Wired recommends Skratch Labs Hydration Sport Drink Mix for athletes because of its higher carbohydrate and calorie profile, which can support sustained activity.
Are flavorless, calorie‑free options available?
Yes—Buoy offers unflavored drops that contain no sugar or calories and come in several specialized formulations.
Are electrolyte powders safe for everyone?
not confirmed in the source
LOURYN STRAMPE GEAR JAN 4, 2026 7:31 AM The Best Electrolyte Powders Get those lost minerals back with the help of our top picks. 1 SAVE THIS STORY All products…
Sources
- 15 Best Electrolyte Powders (2026): Tasty and Effective
- Best Electrolyte Powders 2026 – Forbes Vetted
- The 14 Best Electrolyte Drinks of 2026, Tested
- Best Electrolyte Powder | Hydration for your needs [2026]
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