We’ve conducted the most comprehensive comparison of these three hard seltzer giants ever published. We analyzed nutritional profiles, taste tested every flavor, examined ingredient lists, and calculated value propositions. This is the definitive guide to choosing between White Claw, Truly, and Vizzy.
The Three Contenders: Brand Profiles
White Claw: The Category King
White Claw launched in 2016 under Mark Anthony Brands (the same company behind Mike’s Hard Lemonade) and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The brand now commands approximately 50% of the hard seltzer market, making it larger than all other brands combined. The phrase “Ain’t no laws when you’re drinking Claws” became an unofficial slogan across social media, cementing its status as the hard seltzer of choice for millennials and Gen Z.
Key Brand Facts:
- Launched: 2016
- Parent Company: Mark Anthony Brands
- Market Share: ~50%
- Available Flavors: 15+
- Base: Fermented cane sugar
- Gluten-Free: Yes
Truly: The Flavor Innovator
Truly is owned by Boston Beer Company, the craft brewing giant behind Samuel Adams. This gives Truly access to serious brewing expertise and distribution networks. The brand has positioned itself as the more adventurous option, consistently introducing new flavor combinations and product lines like Truly Lemonade, Truly Iced Tea, and Truly Punch.
Key Brand Facts:
- Launched: 2016
- Parent Company: Boston Beer Company
- Market Share: ~25%
- Available Flavors: 25+
- Base: Fermented cane sugar
- Gluten-Free: Yes
Vizzy: The Vitamin C Challenger
Vizzy entered the market in 2020 with a unique angle: it’s the first hard seltzer made with antioxidant vitamin C from acerola superfruit. Owned by Molson Coors, Vizzy represents Big Beer’s aggressive push into the seltzer space. While newer than White Claw and Truly, Vizzy has rapidly gained market share with its wellness-focused positioning.
Key Brand Facts:
- Launched: 2020
- Parent Company: Molson Coors
- Market Share: ~5%
- Available Flavors: 12+
- Base: Fermented cane sugar with acerola superfruit
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Special Feature: Contains vitamin C
Nutritional Comparison: The Numbers
Let’s cut straight to what matters most for diet-conscious drinkers: the nutritional profiles.
Standard Product Comparison (12 oz can)
| Metric | White Claw | Truly | Vizzy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 100 | 100 | 100 |
| Carbohydrates | 2g | 1g | 2g |
| Sugar | 2g | 1g | Less than 1g |
| Protein | 0g | 0g | 0g |
| ABV | 5% | 5% | 5% |
| Vitamin C | 0% | 0% | 30% DV |
The Verdict: Truly wins the nutritional category with the lowest carbohydrate content at just 1 gram. Vizzy offers the unique benefit of vitamin C, while White Claw falls slightly behind with 2 grams of carbs and sugar.
Specialty Line Comparison
Each brand offers specialty lines that vary significantly from their standard products:
| Product Line | Calories | Carbs | ABV |
|---|---|---|---|
| White Claw Surge | 220 | 6g | 8% |
| Truly Extra | 220 | 5g | 8% |
| Truly Lemonade | 100 | 4g | 5% |
| Truly Iced Tea | 100 | 4g | 5% |
| Truly Punch | 100 | 3g | 5% |
| Vizzy Mimosa | 100 | 3g | 5% |
Important: The higher ABV options (Surge and Extra) more than double the calorie and carb content. If you’re strictly watching intake, stick to standard varieties.
Ingredient Analysis
Understanding what goes into these seltzers helps explain taste differences and may matter to those with dietary restrictions or preferences.
White Claw Ingredients
- Purified carbonated water
- Alcohol from fermented cane sugar
- Natural flavors
- Cane sugar (for residual sweetness)
- Citric acid
- Sodium citrate
Truly Ingredients
- Purified sparkling water
- Alcohol from fermented cane sugar
- Natural flavors
- Contains less than 1% of: Cane sugar, citric acid, sodium citrate
Vizzy Ingredients
- Carbonated water
- Alcohol from fermented cane sugar
- Natural flavors
- Acerola superfruit extract (vitamin C source)
- Cane sugar
- Citric acid
- Sodium citrate
Analysis: All three use essentially the same base—fermented cane sugar alcohol with natural flavors. The key differences are:
- Vizzy adds acerola superfruit for vitamin C
- Truly uses slightly less sugar, explaining the 1g carb difference
- White Claw uses a “gluten-free alcohol base” in their marketing, which all three effectively have
Flavor Comparison: Complete Lineup Review
We conducted blind taste tests of all standard flavors from each brand. Here’s our comprehensive breakdown:
White Claw Flavor Rankings
1. Mango (9/10) – White Claw’s crown jewel. The mango flavor is authentic, not artificial-tasting, with a pleasant tropical sweetness that doesn’t overwhelm. This is the gold standard for hard seltzer flavors.
2. Black Cherry (8.5/10) – The original bestseller. Rich cherry flavor with subtle tartness. A classic for a reason.
3. Watermelon (8/10) – Refreshing and summery. Captures the essence of watermelon without being too sweet.
4. Ruby Grapefruit (7.5/10) – Tart and citrusy with good complexity. Slightly bitter finish that some love and others don’t.
5. Natural Lime (7/10) – Clean and simple. Good for mixing but a bit boring on its own.
6. Raspberry (7/10) – Pleasant berry flavor but can taste slightly artificial.
7. Tangerine (6.5/10) – Decent citrus flavor but less distinctive than grapefruit.
8. Lemon (6/10) – Too subtle. Gets lost compared to other flavors.
Truly Flavor Rankings
1. Wild Berry (9/10) – A sophisticated blend of berries that’s neither too sweet nor too tart. Truly’s best offering.
2. Pineapple (8.5/10) – Vibrant tropical flavor that tastes genuinely like pineapple. Excellent summer choice.
3. Mango (8/10) – Very good, though slightly less authentic than White Claw’s version.
4. Watermelon & Kiwi (8/10) – The kiwi adds an interesting twist that sets it apart from standard watermelon seltzers.
5. Blueberry & Acai (7.5/10) – Unique flavor combination with good depth.
6. Citrus (7/10) – Generic citrus flavor. Nothing wrong with it, but nothing special either.
7. Grapefruit (7/10) – Similar to White Claw’s version but slightly less tart.
8. Lime (6.5/10) – Basic lime flavor. Better as a mixer than straight.
Vizzy Flavor Rankings
1. Pineapple Mango (8.5/10) – The tropical combination works beautifully. The vitamin C addition doesn’t affect taste.
2. Black Cherry Lime (8/10) – Excellent balance between sweet cherry and tart lime.
3. Blueberry Pomegranate (8/10) – Deep, complex berry flavor. One of the more sophisticated seltzer flavors on the market.
4. Strawberry Kiwi (7.5/10) – Classic combination executed well.
5. Watermelon (7/10) – Solid watermelon flavor but doesn’t stand out in a crowded field.
6. Raspberry Tangerine (7/10) – Good flavor but the tangerine can overpower the raspberry.
Taste Test Winner
White Claw wins by a narrow margin, primarily due to the excellence of their Mango and Black Cherry flavors. However, Truly’s Wild Berry and Pineapple are equally impressive. Vizzy, despite being newer, holds its own with creative flavor combinations.
Price Comparison
Prices vary by location and retailer, but here’s a general comparison based on national averages:
| Product | 12-Pack Price | Per Can |
|---|---|---|
| White Claw Variety Pack | $17.99 | $1.50 |
| Truly Variety Pack | $17.99 | $1.50 |
| Vizzy Variety Pack | $18.99 | $1.58 |
The Verdict: White Claw and Truly are identically priced, while Vizzy commands a slight premium (presumably for the added vitamin C). The price difference is minimal, so it shouldn’t be a deciding factor.
The Vitamin C Question: Does It Matter?
Vizzy’s main selling point is its vitamin C content—30% of your daily value per can. But is this actually beneficial?
The Case For
- Vitamin C is an antioxidant that supports immune function
- Alcohol consumption can deplete vitamin C levels
- The added nutrition doesn’t affect taste or increase carbs
- It’s a “functional benefit” for the same basic product
The Case Against
- Most Americans already get adequate vitamin C from diet
- 30% DV is a relatively small amount
- Alcohol still has negative effects that vitamin C doesn’t counteract
- It’s largely a marketing differentiator
Our Take: The vitamin C in Vizzy isn’t harmful, but it’s not a compelling reason to choose the brand. If you prefer Vizzy’s flavors, the vitamin C is a nice bonus. But don’t select it thinking it makes the seltzer “healthier”—you’d be better off taking a vitamin and drinking whichever seltzer you actually prefer.
Availability and Distribution
Not all seltzers are equally available everywhere:
White Claw: Near-universal availability. Found in virtually every grocery store, gas station, and liquor store in America. The brand’s massive market share ensures it gets premium shelf space everywhere.
Truly: Very good availability. Boston Beer Company’s distribution network ensures Truly is in most major retailers, though selection may be more limited than White Claw in some areas.
Vizzy: Good availability but not universal. Molson Coors is pushing hard to expand distribution, but in some markets, you may need to look harder or visit larger retailers to find it.
Best For Different Situations
Best for Strict Keto: Truly
With only 1g of carbs, Truly’s standard line offers the lowest carbohydrate content. On a 20g daily limit, you could theoretically have 20 Trulys (please don’t) versus 10 White Claws.
Best Taste: White Claw
White Claw’s Mango and Black Cherry are the best-tasting mass-market hard seltzers available. If flavor is your priority, go with the Claw.
Best Flavor Variety: Truly
With 25+ flavors including specialty lines like Lemonade, Iced Tea, and Punch, Truly offers the most options for those who like to experiment.
Best for Wellness-Minded Drinkers: Vizzy
If you appreciate the vitamin C addition and want a seltzer that aligns with a wellness-focused lifestyle (to the extent any alcohol can), Vizzy fits the bill.
Best for Parties: White Claw
Brand recognition matters at social events. Everyone knows White Claw, it’s universally liked, and its cultural cachet makes it a safe crowd-pleaser.
Best Higher ABV Option: Truly Extra
Both White Claw Surge and Truly Extra offer 8% ABV, but Truly Extra has 1 fewer gram of carbs (5g vs 6g). If you’re going for stronger seltzers, Truly is the slightly smarter nutritional choice.
Head-to-Head: Direct Flavor Comparisons
We compared identical flavors across brands to see which executes each flavor best:
Mango Showdown
- White Claw Mango: 9/10 – The most authentic mango flavor, well-balanced sweetness
- Truly Mango: 8/10 – Good mango flavor, slightly more artificial
- Vizzy Pineapple Mango: 8.5/10 – Different profile with pineapple, but excellent
Winner: White Claw
Black Cherry Showdown
- White Claw Black Cherry: 8.5/10 – Rich, authentic cherry flavor
- Truly Wild Berry: 9/10 – Different profile but superior overall berry taste
- Vizzy Black Cherry Lime: 8/10 – The lime adds complexity but distracts from cherry
Winner: Truly (with Wild Berry as cherry alternative)
Watermelon Showdown
- White Claw Watermelon: 8/10 – Clean, refreshing watermelon
- Truly Watermelon & Kiwi: 8/10 – The kiwi twist makes it interesting
- Vizzy Watermelon: 7/10 – Solid but unremarkable
Winner: Tie between White Claw and Truly
Citrus/Grapefruit Showdown
- White Claw Ruby Grapefruit: 7.5/10 – Nice tartness, authentic grapefruit
- Truly Grapefruit: 7/10 – Good but less distinctive
- Vizzy Raspberry Tangerine: 7/10 – Different citrus approach, works well
Winner: White Claw
Common Questions Answered
Are hard seltzers better than beer for dieting?
Yes, significantly. A standard hard seltzer has 100 calories and 1-2g carbs compared to 150+ calories and 13-15g carbs for regular beer. Even compared to light beer (95-110 calories, 3-6g carbs), hard seltzers typically have fewer carbs.
Do hard seltzers cause less bloating than beer?
Generally yes. The lower carbohydrate content and lighter body mean less material for your gut to process. However, the carbonation can still cause bloating in some people.
Are hard seltzers actually healthier?
No alcoholic beverage is “healthy,” but hard seltzers are among the least-bad options. They contain fewer calories and carbs than most alternatives while providing the same alcohol content. The vitamin C in Vizzy doesn’t significantly change this equation.
Which brand has the least hangover potential?
All three brands have similar hangover potential since hangovers are primarily caused by alcohol content (which is identical at 5%) and dehydration. The cleaner fermentation process of seltzers compared to darker alcohols may result in fewer congeners, which some studies link to hangover severity.
Can I drink hard seltzers on Whole30?
No. Whole30 eliminates all alcohol, regardless of carb or sugar content.
Our Final Verdict
After extensive testing, number-crunching, and analysis, here’s our bottom line:
Best Overall: Truly
Truly edges out the competition with its lower carbohydrate content (1g vs 2g), excellent flavor variety, and strong taste performance. For diet-conscious drinkers who want options, Truly is the smart choice.
Best Taste: White Claw
If pure taste is your priority and you’re willing to accept 1 extra gram of carbs, White Claw’s Mango and Black Cherry are unbeatable. The brand’s dominance isn’t just marketing—they genuinely make great-tasting seltzers.
Best Innovation: Vizzy
Vizzy earns points for differentiation. The vitamin C addition may be more marketing than medicine, but the creative flavor combinations and willingness to try something new make Vizzy worth trying.
The DrinkLeader Recommendation
For most diet-conscious drinkers, we recommend keeping a variety of brands on hand:
- Truly Wild Berry or Pineapple for everyday drinking (lowest carbs, great taste)
- White Claw Mango for special occasions or when you want the best taste
- Vizzy Black Cherry Lime for variety and a unique flavor profile
All three brands offer keto-friendly, diet-conscious options that let you enjoy social drinking without derailing your nutritional goals. The differences between them are smaller than the marketing would suggest—you really can’t go wrong with any of these choices.
Use our DrinkLeader database to compare specific flavors and find the perfect seltzer for your needs. Happy sipping!
Data compiled from manufacturer websites, independent testing, and blind taste panels. Prices reflect national averages as of November 2025.
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