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30 Best Beer With Low Alcohol Content: Ranked (2024 Edition)

best beer with low-alcohol content

Last Updated on March 14, 2024 by Lydia Martin

As a seasoned mixologist and beer enthusiast, I’ve tried brews in bustling beer festivals, quiet neighborhood pubs, and even on tranquil boat trips.

Some have packed a punch, while others, with lower alcohol content or alcohol-free, offered an equally memorable experience.

Here are the best beers with low-alcohol content that have tickled my taste buds and offered unforgettable experiences, each with a unique charm.

Table of Contents

Top 30 Low-Alcohol Beers You Need To Try

30. Sunday Beer Light & Tight Anytime Lager

Average Price: around $12.48 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 3.9%

Why We Like It: This low-alcohol beer is perfect for laid-back Sunday barbecues or craving something light yet flavorful.

It’s affordable, has a low alcohol content that makes it a good session beer, and its crisp, clean taste always leaves you wanting another.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Good session beer
  • Clean taste

Cons:

  • Low ABV
  • Might be too light for some

Drinkability Score: 8/10

29. Schofferhofer Grapefruit

Bottle of Schofferhofer Grapefruit

Average Price: around $11.69 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 2.5%

Why We Like It: This German brew offers a unique twist on your typical low-alcohol beer.

“Beer makes you feel the way you ought to feel without beer.” – Henry Lawson, Australian Writer

The blend of grapefruit flavor and hefeweizen might sound unusual, but it creates a refreshingly tangy, fruity beer that I find incredibly easy to drink.

Its low ABV means you can enjoy a few without feeling overwhelmed.

Pros:

  • Refreshingly tangy
  • Fruity
  • Easy-to-drink beer

Cons:

  • May be too sweet
  • Limited to grapefruit lovers

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

28. Cerveza Atletica, Athletic Brewing Co.

can of Cerveza Atletica, Athletic Brewing Co.

Average Price: around $11.99 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 0.5%

Why We Like It: With its 0.5 ABV, the Cerveza Atletica is for those days when you want the feel and taste of a beer without the alcohol.

It is one of the best low-alcohol beers that are well-balanced and expertly brewed to maintain the taste integrity of a great beer. It’s light, it’s flavorful, and it’s guilt-free, providing a refreshing satisfaction.

Pros:

  • Light yet flavorful
  • Guilt-free beer
  • Satisfying

Cons:

  • Might be too light
  • Low alcohol by volume may disappoint some

Drinkability Score: 8/10

Read: Craft Beer vs Draft Beer

27. O’Doul’s Amber Low-Alcohol Beer

Hand Holding Bottle of O'Doul's Amber Low-Alcohol Beer

Average Price: around $8.49 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: <0.5%

Why We Like It: O’Doul’s Amber takes non-alcoholic beer to a new level. The brewing process makes it a flavorful beer with a satisfying taste that belies its non-alcoholic nature.

For those days when you’re on driving duty but still want to enjoy a cold one, this low-alcohol beer has your back.

Pros:

  • Flavorful beer
  • Satisfying
  • Low alcohol

Cons:

  • Taste might not suit all
  • Less robust than full-strength beers

Drinkability Score: 7.5/10

26. Dry Hopped, Clausthaler

Dry Hopped, Clausthaler

Average Price: around $9.99 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: <0.5% ABV

Why We Like It: Who said non-alcoholic beers have to be bland? Not Clausthaler! Their Dry Hopped variant is a flavor-packed non-alcoholic beer perfect for hop lovers.

The balance of bitter and sweet notes makes Dry Hopped one of the best low-alcohol beers I’ve tried.

Pros:

  • Balanced bitter-sweet notes
  • Full-bodied for a low-alcohol beer

Cons:

  • Taste might not suit all
  • Bitterness might be off-putting for some

Drinkability Score: 8/10

25. Sufferfest Beer Company Repeat Kolsch

Glass and a Can of Sufferfest Beer Company Repeat Kolsch

Average Price: around $11.99 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 3.5%

Why We Like It: This low-alcohol Kolsch-style beer [1] is a hit with us due to its light body and crisp, refreshing flavor.

Brewed with bee pollen, it’s a surprisingly complex drink considering its lower alcohol content. Plus, it’s the ideal recovery low-alcohol beer for fitness enthusiasts!

You may also want to check out our review of Best Maid Sour Pickle beer here.

Pros:

  • Light body
  • Refreshing taste
  • Complex for a light beer

Cons:

  • May be too light for some
  • Not as robust as full-strength beers

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

24. Boston Beer Sam Light Beer

Average Price: around $15.99 (12-pack)

Alcohol Content: 4.0%

Why We Like It: Boston Beer Sam Light delivers all the flavor of a traditional lager [2] but with fewer calories.

If you’re looking for a lighter beer that doesn’t compromise on taste, this could be the perfect low-alcohol beer for your go-to brew.

Pros:

  • Full taste of a traditional lager
  • Lower calorie content
  • Smooth, drinkable

Cons:

  • Could be too light for some
  • Flavor may not stand out

Drinkability Score: 8/10

23. So-Lo, Goose Island

Hand Holding Can of So-Lo, Goose Island

Average Price: around $15.49 (12-pack)

Alcohol Content: 3.0%

Why We Like It: As IPA lovers, we appreciate when a brew can deliver full-bodied flavor with less alcohol, and So-Lo does just that.

Beers like So-Lo boast a lovely blend of hoppy bitterness and fruity undertones, making it a delightful lighter IPA choice.

Pros:

  • Hoppy bitterness
  • Fruity undertones
  • Full-bodied flavor

Cons:

  • May be too hoppy for some
  • Fruity undertone may not appeal

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

22. Allagash Little Grove Sparkling Session Ale with Blackcurrants

Hand Holding Allagash Little Grove Sparkling Session Ale with Blackcurrants

Average Price: around $13.50 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 3.8%

Why We Like It: This sparkling session and pale ale is a delightfully different addition to the bright beers on our list.

The infusion of blackcurrants gives this pale ale a tart, fruity punch that’s as refreshing as it is unique.

Pros:

  • Tart, fruity ale
  • Unique profile
  • Sparkling and refreshing

Cons:

  • Tartness might not suit all
  • Unconventional flavor might not appeal

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

21. Erdinger Low Alcohol Lager Wheat Beer

Erdinger Low Alcohol Lager Wheat Beer

Average Price: around $11.99 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 0.5% ABV

Why We Like It: I remember the first time I tried this Erdinger variant. I was pleasantly surprised by its authentic wheat beer flavor with only 0.5 ABV.

It’s rich and smooth, and you wouldn’t even notice it’s non-alcoholic. As one of the best low-alcohol beers, it’s perfect for those abstaining nights but still wanting to feel the beer buzz!

Pros:

  • Authentic wheat beer flavor
  • Smooth
  • No discernible non-alcoholic taste

Cons:

  • Wheat flavor may not suit all
  • Taste may disappoint some

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

Read: Radler vs Shandy

20. Evil Twin Bikini Beer

Man Holding Can of Evil Twin Bikini Beer

Average Price: around $12.99 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 2.7%

Why We Like It: After a long day at work, I often reach for the Evil Twin Bikini Beer. It’s a light IPA with a surprisingly robust hoppy flavor, which is quite an achievement considering its low ABV.

Among other beers, the tropical notes make it an ideal companion for a summer evening on the patio.

Pros:

  • Robust hoppy flavor
  • Tropical notes
  • Light, yet flavorful

Cons:

  • May be too hoppy
  • Tropical notes may not appeal

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

19. Brooklyn Brewery Special Effects

Average Price: around $13.19 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: <0.5%

Why We Like It: I hosted a party once, and we had a few designated drivers among us.

That’s when the Special Effects from Brooklyn Brewery became the star of the evening. It’s an alcohol-free beer, but it doesn’t taste that way.

The zesty hoppy taste paired with the sweet caramel malt undertones was a hit.

Pros:

  • Zesty profile
  • Sweet caramel malt undertones
  • Popular among designated drivers

Cons:

  • Balance of flavors might not suit all
  • May be too light for some

Drinkability Score: 8/10

18. Anchor Little Weekend Golden Ale

Can of Brooklyn Brewery Special Effects

Average Price: around $9.99 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 3.9%

Why We Like It: I discovered Anchor Little Weekend Golden Ale on a camping trip.

Its light, tropical taste and the smooth, slightly hoppy finish of this drink perfectly complement our outdoor BBQ. This ale is my go-to choice for our weekend adventures. But what’s the difference between can beer and bottle beer?

Pros:

  • Light, tropical flavored ale
  • Smooth, slightly hoppy finish
  • Good for outdoor activities

Cons:

  • Too light for some
  • Tropical taste may not appeal

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

17. Pilsner Urquell

Man Holding Bottle of Pilsner Urquell

Average Price: about $38.99 (24-pack)

Alcohol Content: 4.4%

Why We Like It: The first time I tried Pilsner Urquell beer, I was at a friend’s backyard party.

The slightly bitter, malty taste of this drink was refreshing and quite addicting. I always keep a six-pack in my fridge for casual sipping.

Pros:

  • Slightly bitter, malty taste
  • Refreshing
  • Good for casual sipping

Cons:

  • Bitterness may not suit all
  • Not ideal for those seeking sweet or fruity flavors

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

16. Thornbridge Zero Five Low Alcohol Pale Ale

Thornbridge Zero Five Low Alcohol Pale Ale

Average Price: around $2.00 for a 330 ml bottle

Alcohol Content: 0.5%

Why We Like It: I was skeptical when I first picked up Thornbridge Zero Five. I mean, how good could a low-alcohol pale ale [3] really be? Well, I was blown away.

The citrusy, hoppy notes of this low-ABV beer had a depth of flavor I hadn’t expected. It’s now a staple for me on weekday evenings when I want to enjoy a beer without the alcohol content.

Pros:

  • Can be frequently consumed
  • Balanced profile

Cons:

  • Low alcohol may disappoint some
  • Might not suit those seeking a stronger ale

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

15. Repeat, Sufferfest

Average Price: around $13.49 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 3.5%

Why We Like It: After my weekly hiking trips, I treat myself to a Repeat from Sufferfest.

It’s not just the hint of bee pollen or the smoothness that appeals to me, but the balance of taste and healthiness makes it the best low-alcohol beer for post-workout refreshment.

Pros:

  • Ideally balanced
  • Preferred post-workout drink
  • Light and refreshing

Cons:

  • Light beer may not appeal to all
  • Health focus may limit taste

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

14. Victory Cage Radler Low ABV Beers

Average Price: around $10.99 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 3.0%

Why We Like It: I was introduced to Victory Cage Radler at a summer beach party, and its light, citrusy lemon zest was a hit.

It was so easy to drink with just the right amount of sweetness, making it an ideal choice if you’re looking for low-alcohol beers.

Pros:

  • Easy to drink
  • Lemon flavor
  • Just the right amount of sweetness

Cons:

  • Citrus taste may not suit all
  • Sweetness level may not appeal to all

Drinkability Score: 9/10

13. Peach Gose, Partake Brewing

Man Holding Can of Peach Gose, Partake Brewing

Average Price: around$11.99 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: <0.3%

Why We Like It: On a recommendation from a fellow mixologist, I tried the Peach Gose from Partake Brewing.

The blend of peach, tartness, and a slight hint of salt was surprisingly refreshing. I recommend it to anyone who’s looking out for their calorie intake but wants to enjoy a guilt-free beer with a unique twist.

Pros:

  • Unique peach and tart blend
  • Refreshing and light
  • Low in alcohol

Cons:

  • May be too tart for some
  • Unconventional taste may not appeal

Drinkability Score: 7.5/10

12. Natural Light

Person Holding Natural Light

Average Price: about $14.89 for an 18-pack

Alcohol Content: 4.2%

Why We Like It: Natural Light, or Natty Light beer as we affectionately call it, is my go-to for large gatherings. It’s light, easy to drink, and, let’s not forget, budget-friendly compared to some beers.

There’s something charmingly unpretentious about cracking open a can of Natty Light beer. It’s the perfect beer while chatting with friends.

Pros:

  • Easy to drink
  • Budget-friendly
  • Great for large gatherings

Cons:

  • Simple taste
  • Not a craft beer

Drinkability Score: 8/10

11. The Purist Clear Lager

Average Price: around $8.99 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 3.8%

Why We Like It: I stumbled upon The Purist at a local craft beer festival. The delicate balance of crisp apple and subtle sweetness was a delightful surprise. I think it’s one of the best-tasting low-ABV beers around.

Its light body and clean finish make it a refreshing choice for those who prefer a lighter body, less traditional beer.

Pros:

  • Crisp apple and sweet balance
  • Light body and clean finish
  • Ideal for lovers of craft beers

Cons:

  • Less traditional beer
  • Could be too light

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

10. Lucky Saint Unfiltered Lager

Bottle Lucky Saint Unfiltered Lager

Average Price: around $2.00 for a 330 ml bottle

Alcohol Content: <0.5%

Why We Like It: I tried Lucky Saint for the first time at a non-alcoholic tasting event. I was instantly captivated by its taste and slightly hoppy undertone.

“Low in alcohol, high in flavor; beer’s gentle buzz is a true savior.” – Liquor Laboratory

It’s become my top choice when I’m in the mood for a real beer but not the buzz. This low-calorie drink is ideal if you’re watching out for your calorie count.

Pros:

  • Slightly hoppy undertone
  • Low in alcohol
  • Low-calorie

Cons:

  • Taste may disappoint some
  • Single beer bottle relatively pricey

Drinkability Score: 9/10

9. Jack’s Abby Blood Orange Wheat

Can of Jack’s Abby Blood Orange Wheat, Glass and a Slice Orange

Average Price: around $10.70 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 4.0%

Why We Like It: During a visit to a local microbrewery, I was intrigued by Jack’s Abby Blood Orange Wheat beer.

Its refreshing blood orange flavor profile is a unique spin on traditional wheat beer that I haven’t forgotten.

Pros:

  • Refreshing flavor
  • Unique spin on wheat beer
  • Great for citrus lovers

Cons:

  • May be too fruity for some
  • Limited seasonal availability

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

8. Bell’s Oarsman Ale

Bell’s Oarsman Ale

Average Price: around $11.99 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 4.0%

Why We Like It: I found Bell’s Oarsman Ale at a friend’s BBQ party. It’s light, tart, and has a hint of citrus.

I love its crisp finish, and it’s been my choice when it comes to beers on hot summer days ever since.

Pros:

  • Light and tart
  • Crisp finish

Cons:

  • May be too tart for some
  • Citrus taste may not appeal

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

7. Free Wave Hazy IPA

Can of Free Wave Hazy IPA

Average Price: around $13.99 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 0.5%

Why We Like It: As one of the top low-ABV beers around, Free Wave’s beautiful blend of tropical, juicy hops with a slightly bitter finish won me over.

With only 0.5 ABV, it’s a hazy IPA [4] that stands out from the other beers and never fails to transport me back to that perfect night out.

Pros:

  • Tropical, juicy hops
  • Slightly bitter finish

Cons:

  • Bitterness may be off-putting

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

6. Full Sail Session Light Premium Lager

Full Sail Session Light Premium Lager

Average Price: around $6.99 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 3.6%

Why We Like It: I first tried Full Sail Session Light during a sailing trip in the Pacific Northwest. With its crisp, clean taste and subtly sweet finish, it’s one of the smoothest beers I’ve tried.

Pros:

  • Crisp taste
  • Subtly sweet finish
  • Smooth and light

Cons:

  • Could be too light for some
  • Limited flavor

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

5. Just the Haze, Samuel Adams

Just the Haze, Samuel Adams

Average Price: around $11.90 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 0.5%

Why We Like It: I was initially skeptical when I saw a non-alcoholic IPA beer with only 0.5 ABV, but Just the Haze from Samuel Adams changed my mind.

Among similar beers, it has a rich profile with tropical and citrus notes that belie its non-alcoholic nature.

Pros:

  • Rich profile
  • Tropical and citrus notes
  • Non-alcoholic

Cons:

  • Non-alcoholic may disappoint some
  • Could be too fruity

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

4. Slightly Mighty Dogfish Head

Slightly Mighty Dogfish Head

Average Price: around $18.90 (12-pack)

Alcohol Content: 4.0%

Why We Like It: The first time I tasted Slightly Mighty, I was at a craft beers tasting event in Boston. It stood out with its robust hoppy taste yet light body.

It’s an exceptional low-calorie IPA that still satisfies my craft beer cravings.

Pros:

  • Robust flavor
  • Light body
  • Low-calorie

Cons:

  • Might be too hoppy
  • Limited to IPA lovers

Drinkability Score: 8.5/10

3. Goose Island Brewing Co. So-Lo IPA

Average Price: around $10.49 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 3.0%

Why We Like It: I came across So-Lo IPA beer during a visit to Goose Island’s taproom in Chicago.

With its bright citrus and piney undertones, this IPA had a full-hop character that amazed me.

Pros:

  • Bright citrus flavor
  • Piney undertones
  • Full-hop character

Cons:

  • May be too citrusy

Drinkability Score: 9/10

2. Ballast Point Mango Even Keel

Man Holding Ballast Point Mango Even Keel

Average Price: around $10 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 3.8%

Why We Like It: The vibrant mango taste blending with the hoppy bitterness of beer is just the refreshment I need on a warm day.

We think it’s a standout in the beer industry, especially among low-alcohol beers, transporting you back to that carefree summer day on a tropical vacation.

But do you know how non-alcoholic beer is made?

Pros:

  • Vibrant mango taste
  • Hoppy bitterness
  • Refreshing

Cons:

  • Could be too fruity

Drinkability Score: 9/10

1. Lemon Quest, Dogfish Head

Box of Lemon Quest, Dogfish Head

Average Price: around $11.69 (6-pack)

Alcohol Content: 0.5%

Why We Like It: I was lucky to sample Lemon Quest at Dogfish Head’s brewery on a trip. With only 0.5 ABV, the blend of lemon juice, sea salt, and a hint of black pepper made it a standout.

It’s more than just a nice body of beer; it’s an adventure in every sip.

Pros:

  • Unique lemon juice blend
  • Full body
  • Reasonably-priced

Cons:

  • Unique taste may not appeal

Drinkability Score: 9.5/10

Note: Prices are based on Drizly, Total Wine, and the official product websites.

The Drinkability Score measures how easy it is to drink multiple servings of the beer in one sitting, again on a scale from 1 to 10, where 1 indicates “difficult to drink more than one” and 10 indicates “easy to drink several.”

FAQs Related to Best Beer with low alcohol Content

What are some examples of beers with low-alcohol content?

Examples of beers with low-alcohol content include light beers, session beers, non-alcoholic beers, and low-alcohol craft beers.

What is the alcohol by volume (ABV) range for beers with low-alcohol content?

Beers with low-alcohol content typically have an alcohol by volume (ABV) ranging from 0.5% to around 3.5%, although this can vary depending on the specific beer style and brand.

Are light beers a good option for those looking for beers with low-alcohol content?

Yes, light beers are often a good option for those seeking beers with low-alcohol content. They typically have a lower ABV compared to regular beers and are known for their crisp and refreshing qualities.

What are session beers, and why are they considered beers with low-alcohol content?

Session beers are beers with lower alcohol content designed to be consumed over an extended “session” without becoming too intoxicated. They typically have an ABV of around 3.5% or lower, allowing for longer drinking sessions.

Are low-alcohol craft beers a viable option for those seeking beers with low-alcohol content?

Yes, many craft breweries produce low-alcohol or “sessionable” beers with interesting and complex flavors while still maintaining a lower ABV. These beers can offer a unique drinking experience for those seeking beers with low-alcohol content.

Can I enjoy beers with low-alcohol content without compromising on taste?

Yes, beers with low-alcohol content can still offer great flavor profiles and enjoyable drinking experiences. Many breweries focus on crafting flavorful and balanced beers with lower ABV   s, allowing drinkers to enjoy the taste without the higher alcohol content.

In Conclusion

Based on my personal journey and experience, the Lemon Quest by Dogfish Head reigns supreme as one of the best low-alcohol beers today.

It brings together a delightful balance of refreshing lemon, a sprinkle of sea salt, and a dash of black pepper.

It’s more than just a light beer, though; it’s a tantalizing adventure in every sip.

So next time you’re in search of a light brew, I wholeheartedly recommend Lemon Quest – an unforgettable, low-alcohol beer to experience.

References:

  1. https://www.foodandwine.com/drinks/what-is-kolsch
  2. https://www.thespruceeats.com/definition-of-lager-353244
  3. https://www.thespruceeats.com/pale-ale-guide-352844
  4. https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/food-dining/2022/10/10/ipa-beer-imperial-hazy-session-explained/8138778001/
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