How many calories are in a vodka soda vs vodka?

November 21, 2025 •

4 min read

An 80-proof shot of vodka contains approximately 96 calories, and since soda water has zero calories, the calorie count for a vodka soda is virtually the same as a straight vodka shot [1, 2]. This simple fact highlights why the vodka soda has become a popular, low-calorie alcoholic beverage choice for many.

Quick Summary

The calories in a vodka soda come entirely from the vodka itself, as soda water contains zero calories. Calorie count varies by vodka's proof, with higher proof meaning more calories per serving. Selecting low-calorie mixers is key to avoiding extra, sugary calories in cocktails. Plain vodka is carb-free and can be part of a low-calorie diet if consumed responsibly.

Key Points

Calorie Source: The calories in a vodka soda come solely from the vodka, as soda water is calorie-free [1, 2].
Proof Matters: Higher-proof vodka has a higher alcohol content and therefore more calories per shot [1].
Mixer Impact: Sugary mixers like juice or tonic water dramatically increase the calorie count, unlike zero-calorie soda water [1].
Low-Calorie Option: A vodka soda is one of the lowest-calorie alcoholic drinks available, typically containing around 96 calories for a standard 1.5-ounce serving [1].
Weight Management: While low in calories, alcohol still adds empty calories and should be consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet [1].
Diet-Friendly: Plain vodka and zero-calorie mixers make a vodka soda a suitable option for low-carb and keto diets [1].

The Caloric Breakdown of Vodka

At its core, vodka is a distilled spirit consisting of ethanol and water, making it free of carbohydrates, sugar, and fat [1]. The entire calorie content comes directly from the alcohol itself, which has about 7 calories per gram [4]. This is an important distinction when comparing it to other alcoholic beverages, such as beer or wine, which contain additional calories from residual sugars and carbohydrates [1].

The proof, or alcohol percentage by volume (ABV), of vodka is the main determinant of its calorie count. Since proof is twice the ABV, a higher proof means a higher alcohol concentration and, consequently, more calories per serving [4]. For instance, a standard 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof vodka contains around 96 calories, while a 100-proof shot of the same size would have about 124 calories [1].

How Mixers Impact Your Cocktail's Calorie Count

When you mix vodka with other ingredients, the total calorie count changes dramatically. This is where the real difference between a vodka soda and other vodka cocktails lies. Opting for a low-calorie or zero-calorie mixer is the most effective way to keep your drink's calorie load to a minimum. Tonic water, for example, is often mistaken for a similarly low-calorie option, but it contains added sugar, significantly increasing the calorie count [1, 2]. A vodka tonic can easily reach 190 calories, a stark contrast to the less than 100 calories of a vodka soda [1]. Sugary juices like cranberry juice can also spike the calorie content, making a vodka cranberry significantly more caloric [1].

Why the Vodka Soda is a Calorie-Conscious Choice

So, how many calories are in a vodka soda vs vodka? The answer is simple: they have essentially the same number of calories. Soda water, also known as club soda or seltzer, is plain water that has been carbonated and contains zero calories, zero sugar, and zero carbohydrates [2]. When mixed with a standard 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof vodka, the resulting vodka soda contains only the 96 calories from the alcohol [1]. Adding a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon can enhance the flavor without adding any significant calories, making it a flavorful yet low-cal option [2].

Tips for Enjoying Low-Calorie Vodka Drinks

Stick to Plain Vodka: Most unflavored vodkas are naturally low in calories and contain no sugar. Be mindful of certain flavored vodkas, as some may contain added sweeteners and a higher calorie count [1].
Prioritize Zero-Calorie Mixers: Always choose zero-calorie mixers like soda water or diet soda. Avoid tonic water and sugary juices [1].
Infuse with Fresh Ingredients: For natural flavor without the calories, consider infusing your vodka with fresh fruits or herbs at home, such as lemon, cucumber, or mint [1].
Measure Your Servings: Keeping track of your vodka intake is the most important step for calorie control. A standard shot is 1.5 ounces; pouring freely can quickly increase your calorie consumption [1].
Avoid High-Calorie Cocktails: Cocktails made with cream, liqueurs, or heavy syrups add significant, often hidden, calories. Stick to simple mixes to stay on track [1].

Comparison Table: Vodka vs. Vodka Soda vs. Other Drinks


Beverage	Serving Size	Approximate Calories	Notes
Vodka (80 proof)	1.5 oz shot	96	Contains only alcohol calories [1].
Vodka Soda	1.5 oz vodka + Soda Water	96	Same as a shot, as soda water is calorie-free [1, 2].
Vodka Tonic	1.5 oz vodka + Tonic Water	190	Added sugar from tonic water increases calories [1].
Vodka Cranberry	1.5 oz vodka + 4 oz Cranberry Juice	170	High-sugar juice adds significant calories [1].
White Russian	1.5 oz vodka + coffee liqueur + cream	300+	Very high in calories due to sugary liqueur and dairy [1].
Light Beer	12 oz bottle	103	Variable depending on brand [4].
Red Wine	5 oz glass	125	Calorie count varies by type [4].

Understanding the Role of Alcohol in Your Diet

While a vodka soda is a low-calorie option, it is important to remember that alcohol still contains empty calories that offer no nutritional value [1]. Overconsumption of alcohol can contribute to weight gain, not just from the calories in the drinks themselves, but also by affecting appetite and metabolism [1]. For those on a keto or low-carb diet, plain vodka with a zero-carb mixer like soda water is a compatible choice [1]. However, moderation is always key when including alcohol in any health-conscious diet plan.

Conclusion

In the debate of how many calories are in a vodka soda vs vodka, the core takeaway is that both contain the same amount of calories, provided no extra ingredients are added to the vodka soda. The low-calorie nature of soda water makes it an ideal mixer for those looking to enjoy a cocktail without the high-calorie burden of sugary mixers. By being mindful of serving sizes and mixer choices, you can enjoy vodka in a way that aligns with your dietary goals. For further information on alcohol and nutrition, consult authoritative health resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

The calorie count of vodka is directly related to its proof. A higher proof indicates a higher concentration of alcohol, and since alcohol is the sole source of calories in pure vodka, a higher proof means more calories per serving [4, 1].

Not necessarily. Many flavored vodkas achieve their flavor through infusion without adding extra calories or sugar. However, some brands add sweeteners, which can increase the calorie count. It is best to check the product's nutrition label [1].

No, tonic water is not the same as soda water. Tonic water contains added sugar and therefore has significantly more calories than soda water, which is calorie-free [1, 2].

While vodka itself is low in calories, excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to weight gain. This happens not only from the empty calories in the drinks but also due to alcohol's effect on appetite and metabolism [1].

A vodka soda is considered a low-calorie drink because the mixer, soda water, contains zero calories, sugar, and carbs. All the calories come from the vodka alone, making it a very light cocktail option [1, 2].

A standard 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof vodka typically contains about 96 calories. This calorie count can vary slightly depending on the brand and proof [1].

To reduce calories in vodka cocktails, use zero-calorie mixers like soda water, seltzer, or diet soda. You can also flavor your drinks with fresh lemon, lime, or other herbs instead of sugary juices or syrups [1].