Which Apple Has the Lowest Calories? A Comparative Guide

November 28, 2025 •

4 min read

On average, a 100g serving of apple contains just 52 calories, a notably low figure for a satiating snack. However, a common question for those counting macros is: which apple has the lowest calories among the various popular varieties?

Quick Summary

This article provides a nutritional comparison of popular apple varieties, examining their calorie content, sugar levels, and fiber to identify the lowest-calorie options. It explores how variety, size, and growing conditions influence an apple's energy density.

Key Points

Granny Smith is lowest: The tart, green Granny Smith generally has the lowest calorie count, averaging around 72-80 calories for a medium apple.
Variety matters less than size: The size of the apple is the biggest determinant of calorie content; a small apple of any type will have fewer calories than a large one.
High fiber promotes fullness: All apples are high in fiber, which helps promote satiety and reduce overall calorie intake, making them an excellent snack for weight management.
Sweet apples are also low-calorie: Varieties like Gala (70-80 calories) and Fuji (80-90 calories) are still very low in calories and satisfy sweet cravings.
Minimal nutritional differences: Despite slight calorie variations, the nutritional differences between red and green apples are minor, so you can choose based on taste preference.
Eat the skin for more fiber: The apple's skin is packed with fiber and antioxidants, and eating it boosts the health benefits with a minimal calorie increase.

Understanding Calorie Differences in Apples

While all apples are healthy, low-calorie choices, subtle differences exist between varieties due to varying sugar, water, and fiber content. Knowing these distinctions can help make an informed decision when every calorie counts. Generally, tart apples like Granny Smiths are lower in sugar and slightly lower in calories than their sweeter counterparts, but the difference is often marginal for a single serving. The primary factor affecting calorie count is actually the size of the apple, with a larger piece of any variety containing more calories than a smaller one.

Granny Smith: The Low-Calorie Frontrunner

The tart, green Granny Smith is frequently cited as one of the lowest-calorie apple varieties available. Its lower sugar content contributes to its tart flavor and slightly lower energy density compared to sweeter options like Fuji or Honeycrisp. For a medium-sized apple, a Granny Smith typically comes in around 80 calories, though sources vary slightly. This variety's higher fiber concentration also promotes a greater sense of fullness, which is beneficial for weight management.

Gala and Fuji: Sweetness with a Low-Calorie Profile

For those who prefer a sweeter taste without a major calorie spike, Gala and Fuji are excellent choices. A medium Gala apple usually contains 70-80 calories, putting it in a very similar range to the Granny Smith. Fuji apples are also relatively low-calorie, with a medium one averaging 80-90 calories. These varieties offer a pleasant sweetness that satisfies cravings while still keeping calorie intake in check. However, due to their higher sugar content, their energy density is a touch higher than the tart Granny Smith.

Beyond Calories: Fiber and Satiety

When evaluating apples for weight loss or a low-calorie diet, focusing solely on the calorie number can be misleading. The high fiber content in apples, especially in the skin, is a significant benefit. Fiber helps you feel full and satisfied for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating later. This is one reason why apples are often recommended as a great snack for weight management. For instance, while a Granny Smith might be slightly lower in calories, a medium Gala still offers good fiber, making both excellent choices. The takeaway is that all apple varieties are fantastic dietary additions.

Other Factors Influencing Calorie Count

Size: This is the single biggest determinant of an apple's calorie content. A small apple will always have fewer calories than a large one, regardless of the variety. A small apple (approx. 150g) has around 77-80 calories, while a large one (approx. 225g) can have over 115 calories.
Growing Conditions: The specific growing conditions, such as sunlight, soil, and water, can cause minor fluctuations in an apple's sugar and water content, leading to slight variations in its nutritional profile.
With or Without Skin: Eating the apple with its skin can increase the fiber content and provide additional antioxidants, though this has a minimal effect on the total calorie count.

Calorie Comparison of Popular Apple Varieties


Apple Variety	Average Calories (Medium Size)	Flavor Profile	Best For	Notes
Granny Smith	72–80 calories	Tart and crisp	Snacking, baking, weight loss	Generally has the lowest sugar content.
Gala	70–80 calories	Sweet and mild	Snacking, salads	Excellent low-calorie choice for sweet tooths.
Fuji	80–90 calories	Sweet with a hint of honey	Snacking, desserts	Sweeter than Gala, slightly higher in calories.
Red Delicious	~95 calories	Mildly sweet	Snacking	A popular choice, but slightly higher in calories.
Honeycrisp	~95 calories	Very sweet and crisp	Snacking	Higher sugar content and calories than tart varieties.

Making the Right Choice for Your Diet

When choosing an apple for a low-calorie diet, the variety's specific calorie count is less important than factors like portion size and overall dietary goals. All apples are a healthful, nutrient-dense, and low-calorie addition to any diet. If you prefer a tart flavor and want the absolute lowest number, the Granny Smith is your best bet. If sweetness is your priority, Gala and Fuji are fantastic low-calorie options that won't derail your goals. The key is to enjoy the natural benefits of the fruit and consider the overall context of your eating habits.

Ultimately, a medium apple of nearly any variety is a smart choice for a low-calorie snack. Paired with nuts or yogurt, it can provide a satisfying and nutritious boost. For more information on healthy eating and food comparisons, consult the World Health Organization.

Conclusion

To answer the question, a Granny Smith apple has the lowest calories among the most common varieties, primarily due to its lower sugar content. However, the difference between a Granny Smith and a Gala or Fuji is minimal on a per-serving basis. The most impactful factor for calorie consumption from apples is portion size. All varieties offer high fiber and essential nutrients, making any apple a healthy, low-calorie choice. So, whether you prefer tart or sweet, you can confidently enjoy an apple as a delicious part of your healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

While the difference is minimal, green apples like Granny Smith are often slightly lower in calories and sugar than red apples like Red Delicious or Fuji.

The Granny Smith apple has less sugar and a more tart flavor profile compared to the sweeter Gala apple.

A medium apple, which is approximately 182 grams, contains about 95 calories on average, though this can vary slightly by variety.

Peeling an apple slightly reduces its fiber content but has a negligible effect on the total calorie count. For the most fiber, it is best to eat the skin.

With approximately 95 calories for a medium apple, the Honeycrisp is not considered high-calorie but is on the higher end compared to tart varieties due to its sweetness.

Granny Smith is often recommended for weight loss due to its slightly lower sugar and higher fiber content, but any apple is a healthy, satiating, low-calorie choice.

Apples are versatile; you can eat them as a snack, add slices to salads, or pair them with Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a satisfying, low-calorie treat.