The Best Low-Calorie Beers That Are Actually Worth Drinking

If you’re craving a light beer with real flavor, this pick from Dogfish Head delivers. Known for its fruit-forward brews, this IPA brings notes of pineapple, coconut, and citrus for a bright, tropical twist. It’s brewed with monk fruit to help cut sugar, giving you the bold, hoppy punch of a traditional IPA—without the extra calories.

This lightened-up take on a classic wheat beer delivers bright citrus flavor with fewer calories than traditional options. Compared to the original Blue Moon Belgian White—which has about 170 calories, 13g of carbs, and 5.4% ABV—LightSky is noticeably lighter, crisper and more sessionable—translation: it’s lower in alcohol and easy to enjoy over a longer stretch without feeling weighed down.

Brewed with real tangerine peel, it has a refreshing citrusy profile that feels perfect for warm-weather sipping.

Heineken consistently ranks as one of the most popular beers in the U.S., and the Light version maintains the flavors that have made it such a perennial favorite. Heineken Light is lean, fruity and slightly sweet—with a lighter feel and fewer calories than the original. It has just the right amount of earthiness that adds a layer of sophistication without adding heaviness. Our testers loved the subtle malt flavor and slightly bitter edge.

This easy-drinking lager from Firestone Walker delivers more flavor than your average light beer without adding extra heaviness. Inspired by Mexican-style lagers, it features a crisp body with subtle malt sweetness and a hint of lime-like brightness. Reviewers say it’s “smooth and refreshing with just enough character,” making it a great option when you want something approachable but a step up from standard light lagers.

This zero-carb lager offers a lighter, more modern take on classic light beer. With a clean, crisp profile and subtle citrus notes, it’s designed to feel refreshing without the heavier body of traditional lagers. Tasters say it’s “easy-drinking and smooth,” making it a solid pick for those who want to cut carbs and calories without giving up a familiar beer experience.

Americans have been downing Michelobs for more than a century, making it as familiar as that old bar buddy. Michelob Ultra offers a light malty taste with a subtle citrus aroma, and an extended mashing process gives it an exceptionally smooth, easy-drinking finish.

Founded in Hawaii, Kona Brewing Co. describes its beers as “liquid aloha,” and this lower-calorie option lives up to the name. It pairs especially well with grilled seafood, thanks to its sweet, bright flavor that evokes a perfect island day. “It’s a great summer beer. Light, crisp and refreshing,” one of our testers said.

One of the lightest lagers on the market—and the lowest calorie alcoholic beer on this list—this Bud comes in at only 55 calories with less than 2 carbs per bottle. Many reviewers of this refreshing, crisp option rate it highly for being the “perfect summer beer” that’s “low alcohol, but enough to keep it interesting.”

One of the standout options in the low-cal beer lineup, this refreshing lager from New England–based Harpoon is known for its easygoing drinkability. Tasters praised its “crisp, summery flavor,” noting that its light profile makes it a great companion to a meal without overpowering the food. Even better, a portion of proceeds supports scholarships for families of fallen service members and first responders—so it’s a feel-good pick in more ways than one.

You might think of dark, creamy Guinness as a heavy beer, but this classic Irish stout is surprisingly low in calories. “Guinness Draught is creamy in texture but not heavy,” one of our testers said, noting its rich flavors of coffee and chocolate. The finish lingers just enough, making it a beer worth slowing down and savoring.

Born in Northern California, Lagunitas brings its signature laid-back vibe to this easygoing IPA. Designed for exactly what the name suggests, it’s a great pick for a relaxed afternoon. “Fruity flavors and a low ABV make this a great hot weather, easy-drinking pick,” one of our testers said. Expect bright notes of pineapple, melon, grape and lemongrass in every sip.

This lighter version of the popular Italian lager maintains the crisp, slightly bitter finish that fans love, but with fewer calories and a lower ABV. It has a clean, refreshing taste with subtle citrus and floral notes, giving it a slightly more refined profile than many light beers. Testers note that it feels “bright and refreshing,” making it an easy choice for pairing with food or sipping on a warm day.

For those who prefer a maltier beer, this updated Newcastle Brown Ale offers a smoother, slightly lighter option (compared to many brown ales, which often run 150+ calories and higher carbs). The flavor evokes toasted nuts, caramel and a hint of sweetness, balanced by a clean finish that keeps it from feeling too heavy. It’s rich but still drinkable, making it a good option when you want more robust flavor without going overboard.

This nonalcoholic IPA came recommended by multiple tasters for its “crisp, not too hoppy” appeal. It delivers the same satisfying carbonation as a traditional beer, helping it closely mimic the real thing. Brewed with a blend of five Northwest hops, it offers a flavor profile that’s light, complex and snappy—earning high marks from reviewers for its “real IPA taste.” With nearly 2,000 five-star reviews, it’s already a standout among alcohol-free options.