Hydration drinks have exploded in popularity, but not all of them are created for the same purpose. Some focus on premium hydration and vitamins, while others emphasize performance and electrolytes. Two big names in this space are Body-Armor and Prime.
Although both drinks replace fluids and minerals, they differ in formulation, calorie content, electrolyte composition, and ideal use cases. This blog breaks down how they stack up so you can choose the right one for your goals.
What Is Body-Armor?
Body-Armor is a sports drink designed for hydration, electrolytes, and added nutrients like vitamin B-complex and antioxidants. It uses a coconut water base (in many versions) to help balance electrolyte levels and promote hydration with a smoother, less salty taste than traditional sports drinks.
Body-Armor comes in a variety of versions:
- Body-Armor Sports Drink (original)
- Body-Armor Lyte (low-calorie, reduced sugar)
- Body-Armor Edge (added caffeine for energy)
It’s marketed toward athletes, everyday active people, and anyone who wants a hydration drink with extra vitamins.
Best for:
- Athletic hydration
- Everyday beverage
- Recovery after workouts
- People who want vitamins with hydration
What Is Prime?
Prime Hydration (created by Logan Paul & KSI) is a rapidly popular sports drink that combines electrolytes, amino acids, and antioxidants with a clean label approach. Prime emphasizes zero sugar, zero artificial colors, and moderate electrolyte levels, making it a go-to for people who want hydration without the calories or sugar spike.
Prime is often used:
- During workouts
- On hot days
- For casual hydration
- By people looking for low-sugar alternatives
Best for:
- Low-calorie hydration
- Everyday use
- Workout support without sugar
Body-Armor vs Prime: Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Body-Armor | Prime Hydration |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Hydration + vitamins & nutrients | Hydration + zero sugar |
| Electrolytes (approx per 16 oz) | Sodium 270–350 mg, Potassium >700 mg (varies by line) | Sodium 370 mg, Potassium 280 mg |
| Sugar | ~21–32 g (original) / ~10 g (Lyte) | 0 g |
| Calories | ~120–140 (original) / ~25 (Lyte) / ~90 (Edge) | ~20 |
| Carb Source | Sugars (original) / minimal carbs (Lyte) | None |
| Vitamins | Vitamin B3, B5, B6, B12, antioxidants | Some B-Vitamins & antioxidants varies by flavor |
| Artificial Colors | ❌ None (some versions) | ❌ None |
| Flavors | Fruit Punch, Blue Raspberry, Orange Mango, Strawberry Watermelon, etc. | Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch, Lemon Lime, Grape, etc. |
| Price | ~$2.00–$2.50 per bottle | ~$1.80–$2.20 per bottle |
| Best For | Athletes, nutrient+ hydration | Sugar-free hydration, everyday use |
Taste & Drinkability
- Body-Armor: Fruitier and sweeter in the original version, with a thicker mouthfeel from the coconut water base and added nutrients. Lyte versions are lighter and less sweet.
- Prime: Smooth, light, and refreshing with bold fruit flavors but zero sugar sweetness, making it easy to sip.
Taste preference is a major factor in choosing between them.
Performance & Effectiveness
Body-Armor
Body-Armor delivers higher potassium — which can help with muscle function — and added vitamins that may benefit recovery and overall nutrition. The original formula has sugar and calories, which can be useful during prolonged activity.
The Lyte version reduces sugar and calories while still providing balanced electrolytes.
Prime
Prime’s strength is its zero sugar and low calories profile while still delivering a solid electrolyte mix. It delivers hydration without the energy spike from sugar, making it ideal for daily use and workouts where you want hydration without calories.
Health & Dietary Considerations
Body-Armor
- Original versions contain sugar and calories
- Lyte versions are lower in sugar and calories
- Provides added vitamins and antioxidants
Prime
- Zero sugar and low calorie
- Better for keto or low-sugar diets
- Still provides electrolytes
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Body-Armor if:
- You want added vitamins and nutrients with hydration
- You don’t mind sugar (or choose the lighter Lyte versions)
- You want a more nutrient-rich hydration aid
Choose Prime if:
- You want zero sugar hydration
- You prefer low-calorie drinks
- You want hydration support during workouts or daily use without extra carbs
Bottom Line
- Body-Armor = nutrient-rich hydration
- Prime = zero-sugar, everyday hydration