Buoy vs Liquid I.V.: What US Consumers Need to Know in 2025
Staying hydrated is a daily challenge, especially in the U.S. where busy lifestyles, hot summers, workouts, and even long workdays demand more than just plain water. That’s where hydration supplements like Buoy and Liquid I.V. come in. Both are popular choices in the U.S. hydration market, but they work differently and cater to different needs. In this detailed comparison of Buoy vs Liquid I.V., we’ll break down their formulas, benefits, taste, and overall value so you can make the right choice.
Table of Contents
What Is Liquid I.V.?
Liquid I.V. is one of the most recognized hydration products in the U.S. It’s a powdered electrolyte mix that you pour into water. Marketed as a Hydration Multiplier, it uses a technology called Cellular Transport Technology (CTT®) to enhance the absorption of water and electrolytes into your bloodstream.
- Format: Powder sticks (convenient single-serve packets)
- Target audience: U.S. consumers looking for quick hydration after workouts, illness, travel, or heat exposure
- Key electrolytes: Sodium, potassium, chloride
- Extra nutrients: Vitamin C, B vitamins
- Popular in: Gyms, sports fields, and even hospitals for mild dehydration support
What Is Buoy?
Buoy takes a very different approach. Instead of powder sticks, Buoy comes as a liquid electrolyte concentrate that you add to any drink. Think of it as a hydration “booster” that works with your coffee, smoothie, juice, or even plain water.
- Format: Liquid dropper bottle
- Target audience: U.S. consumers who want everyday hydration support without extra sugar or artificial flavoring
- Key electrolytes: Sodium, potassium, chloride, magnesium
- Extra nutrients: Trace minerals, no added sugars, no artificial sweeteners
- Popular in: Offices, daily routines, and among health-conscious U.S. buyers who want versatility
Buoy vs Liquid I.V.: Key Differences
| Feature | Buoy | Liquid I.V. |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Liquid drops | Powder sticks |
| Sugar Content | 0 g | ~11 g per serving |
| Calories | 0 | ~45 per stick |
| Electrolytes | Sodium, potassium, magnesium, chloride, trace minerals | Sodium, potassium, chloride, glucose |
| Vitamins | Trace minerals (natural) | Vitamin C + B vitamins |
| Flavor | Unflavored, mixes into any drink | Flavored (lemon lime, acai berry, golden cherry, etc.) |
| Use Case | Daily hydration with flexibility | Rapid hydration, especially for workouts, heat, or travel |
| Packaging | 1 bottle = ~40 servings | Box of 16 powder sticks |
| Sugar-Free? | Yes | No |
Ingredients Breakdown
Liquid I.V. Ingredients
- Cane sugar (main energy source)
- Sodium citrate & potassium citrate (electrolytes)
- Vitamin C & B complex (immune + energy support)
- Natural flavors & stevia
💡 For U.S. consumers: If you’re looking for fast absorption (like after a workout), the sugar content in Liquid I.V. helps transport electrolytes quickly.
Buoy Ingredients
- Electrolytes from natural mineral sources (sodium, potassium, chloride, magnesium)
- Trace minerals like zinc and manganese
- No added sugars, sweeteners, or calories
- No artificial flavors or preservatives
💡 For U.S. consumers: Buoy is ideal if you’re on a low-carb, keto, or diabetic-friendly lifestyle since it won’t spike your blood sugar.
Taste & Flavor Experience
- Liquid I.V.: Comes in fruity flavors like Lemon Lime, Acai Berry, and Strawberry. It tastes sweet, refreshing, and somewhat similar to a sports drink. However, some U.S. consumers find it a bit too sugary.
- Buoy: Essentially flavorless, which makes it versatile. You can add it to water, tea, smoothies, or even alcoholic drinks without changing the flavor. This makes it appealing to U.S. consumers who don’t want extra sweetness.
Nutrition & Calories
- Liquid I.V.: ~45 calories and 11 grams of sugar per stick
- Buoy: 0 calories and 0 grams of sugar
For U.S. consumers tracking calories or reducing sugar intake, Buoy offers a clear advantage. However, athletes or active individuals may prefer the extra glucose in Liquid I.V. for faster recovery.
Price Comparison
- Liquid I.V.: Around $24–$25 for a 16-pack (~$1.50 per serving) in the U.S.
- Buoy: Around $11–$12 per bottle, each bottle gives ~40 servings (~$0.30 per serving) in the U.S.
💡 If cost is a concern for U.S. households, Buoy is significantly cheaper per serving.
Who Should Choose Liquid I.V.?
Liquid I.V. is better for:
- U.S. athletes needing fast hydration after workouts
- Travelers dealing with jet lag or long flights
- People recovering from illness or heat exposure
- Those who don’t mind sugar and prefer flavored hydration
Who Should Choose Buoy?
Buoy is better for:
- U.S. consumers seeking sugar-free hydration
- Keto, low-carb, or diabetic-friendly lifestyles
- Daily hydration without extra calories
- People who want versatility (add to any drink, not just water)
- Budget-conscious buyers
Buoy vs Liquid I.V.: Which Is Best for U.S. Consumers?
When it comes to Buoy vs Liquid I.V., the right choice depends on your lifestyle. For rapid hydration with flavor, Liquid I.V. is a solid option. But for daily, sugar-free, affordable hydration, Buoy is the winner.
Many U.S. consumers even use both: Buoy for everyday hydration and Liquid I.V. for workouts or travel.
FAQs on Buoy vs Liquid I.V.
1. Is Buoy better than Liquid I.V. for daily hydration?
Yes. Since Buoy has no sugar and no calories, it’s better for everyday use.
2. Does Liquid I.V. have too much sugar for U.S. consumers?
Some might think so — with 11 g of sugar per serving, it’s not ideal for low-sugar diets.
3. Can you mix Buoy into coffee or tea?
Yes, Buoy is flavorless and works with hot or cold drinks.
4. Which is cheaper in the U.S. — Buoy or Liquid I.V.?
Buoy is significantly cheaper per serving compared to Liquid I.V.
5. Which is better for athletes in the U.S.?
Liquid I.V. is better for post-workout hydration since the sugar helps speed up electrolyte absorption.
Final Thoughts
In the U.S. hydration market, Buoy vs Liquid I.V. is a battle between sugar-free everyday hydration and fast, flavored hydration. If you’re looking for something affordable, versatile, and calorie-free, Buoy is the smarter pick. If you need quick hydration during workouts, sports, or heat waves, Liquid I.V. is worth considering.
Either way, both brands serve different purposes — and many U.S. consumers find they benefit from keeping both in their hydration routine.
