Powerade and Gatorade differ by product, serving size, sugar and sodium. Compare the exact labels on the same volume basis before choosing a bottle. A regular drink, a zero-sugar version and a powder are different products even when they share a brand name.
This comparison uses two named US products and their published label records. It explains what the numbers establish, how to compare a package and which details to check before buying.
Compare the named drinks and package sizes
Label comparison: keep the serving sizes visible
The table retains each source’s stated serving. The columns are different sizes, so the totals are not a like-for-like volume comparison.
| Label item | Powerade Mountain Berry Blast | Gatorade Thirst Quencher Lemon-Lime |
|---|---|---|
| Stated serving | 12 fl oz | 20 fl oz (591 mL) |
| Calories | 80 | 140 |
| Carbohydrate | 21 g | 36 g |
| Total sugars | 21 g | 34 g |
| Sodium | 240 mg | 270 mg |
| Potassium | 80 mg | 80 mg |
Sources: Powerade’s Mountain Berry Blast web panel and PepsiCo SmartLabel, Gatorade UPC 052000328684. The SmartLabel record says last updated January 5, 2023; it is a documented example, not confirmation of the formula on every bottle sold today.
How to compare sodium on the same volume basis
For these examples, Gatorade’s listed 270 mg in 20 fl oz becomes 162 mg per 12 fl oz: 270 × 12 ÷ 20. That is a calculation from the source panel, not a separate package-label value. Powerade’s web panel lists 240 mg per 12 fl oz.
This arithmetic describes sodium concentration in the named examples. It does not prove that either drink produces better athletic results or is the right choice for every person.
Powerade’s page also pairs a 28 fl oz container with 2.5 servings of 12 fl oz, figures that do not multiply consistently. We use its stated per-serving panel here and do not infer a whole-bottle total. For an actual purchase, use the label on the selected package.
Sugar, flavour and formula: compare the exact version
- Regular versus zero: read the full product name and sugar line. Do not transfer the regular-drink figures above to a zero-sugar bottle.
- Ready to drink versus powder: check the mixing instructions and the amount of finished drink. A scoop and a bottle are not comparable serving units.
- One bottle versus a multipack: compare bottle size and count together. If you want a unit price, divide the displayed total by the total fluid ounces in the selected offer.
- Ingredients: inspect the exact label for sweeteners, flavourings and other ingredients that matter to your choice. Similar colours or names do not establish identical formulas.
For volume units, see our guide to fluid ounces versus weight ounces. Use fluid ounces when comparing drink volume.
Compare the named drinks before choosing a multipack
If these are the versions you want, compare their current package labels, bottle sizes and counts. Check that the selected result is the regular ready-to-drink product rather than a zero-sugar version, concentrate or powder.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Amazon links below are paid links; FoodReadme may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
- Compare Powerade Mountain Berry Blast bottles (paid link)
- Compare Gatorade Thirst Quencher Lemon-Lime bottles (paid link)
These links open Amazon search results, which can include different products and variants. Check the exact item, ingredients, package quantity, seller and current total before ordering. Search results do not confirm availability.
Common questions
Which has more sodium?
In the published examples above, Powerade has more sodium per 12 fl oz: 240 mg versus a calculated 162 mg. Check the exact current labels before applying that comparison to another size or formula.
Does the larger sugar total mean the drink is sweeter?
A total for a larger serving cannot answer that by itself. First use the same volume, then consider that sweetness also depends on the specific recipe and your taste.
Sources and method
Manufacturer label records were reviewed on November 9, 2026. This is a label and package comparison, without hands-on performance scores, medical claims or a universal brand winner. Formulations, regional products and listings can change.