Beta Fuel Gel + Electrolyte 60ml - Single Unit (Raspberry & Lemon) vs PEAK Carb Gel

  • 2 products side by side
  • From each brand's label
The short answer

Beta Fuel Gel and PEAK Carb Gel are designed for endurance athletes needing sustained energy. Beta Fuel offers a high-carb formula ideal for long, hot races with substantial sodium content but lacks potassium. PEAK Carb Gel provides a balanced dual-carb source and is caffeine-free, suitable for steady races but requires additional electrolytes for balance.

FigureBeta Fuel Gel + Electrolyte 60ml - Single Unit (Raspberry & Lemon)Beta Fuel Gel + Electrolyte 60ml - Single Unit (Raspberry & Lemon)Science In SportPEAK Carb GelPEAK Carb GelPeak Daily
FormGelGel
Serving60ml51g
Price per servingR75R19.92 (best)
Carbs per R105.3 g15.6 g (best)
Value score5.7/109.9/10 (best)
Energy160 kcal129 kcal
Carbs40 g (best)31 g
Sugar19 g13 g
Protein0 g0.1 g
Fat0 g0.1 g
Sodium530 mg77 mg
CaffeineNoneNone
Carb typeMaltodextrinDual-source carbohydrate blend
Glucose to fructose1:0.8—
Glycaemic index——
Scores out of 100, from each product's write-up
ScoreBeta Fuel Gel + Electrolyte 60ml - Single Unit (Raspberry & Lemon)PEAK Carb Gel
Energy delivery9080
Digestibility9090
Taste7070
Value5799
Convenience8595
Key differences
  1. Beta Fuel Gel offers higher sodium content, suitable for hotter conditions.
  2. PEAK Carb Gel is isotonic, aiding fluid balance and digestion.
  3. Beta Fuel Gel's 1:0.8 glucose-fructose ratio maximizes absorption for longer efforts.
  4. PEAK Carb Gel includes Palatinose™, providing a more sustained energy release.
Race day

How each one works, by distance

Head to head

For a 5k, either gel can suffice, but the PEAK Carb Gel's quick absorption may offer slight comfort for shorter, intense efforts.

Beta Fuel Gel + Electrolyte 60ml - Single Unit (Raspberry & Lemon)

For a 5k race, this gel is not necessary due to the short duration. Focus on pre-race hydration and a balanced meal instead.

PEAK Carb Gel

For a 5k race, the quick energy from PEAK Carb Gel isn't necessary, as glycogen stores should suffice. Consider using it post-race for recovery.

The verdict by situation

Gut risk

Beta Fuel Gel, with its mixed carbohydrate sources, may pose a lesser risk of gut distress due to better osmolality management compared to the PEAK's potential need for additional electrolytes.

Carb ceiling

Beta Fuel Gel sustains up to 80-120 g/h due to its multi-source carbs. PEAK Carb Gel, with a 2:1 glucose-fructose ratio, also supports high absorption rates, yet it is designed more towards efficient medium-term fueling.

For beginners

Beginners may prefer the PEAK Carb Gel for its isotonic formula and slightly lower carbohydrate load, which can help minimize gut distress during shorter races.

For experienced athletes

Experienced athletes might lean towards Beta Fuel Gel for its high carbohydrate delivery and significant sodium content, especially during intensive long-distance events.

Best value

Beta Fuel Gel offers a robust carb load for its price, but PEAK Carb Gel is a more cost-effective option if budget is a concern, despite requiring additional electrolytes.

Final verdict

For those prioritizing performance, Beta Fuel Gel is a solid choice due to its high carb and sodium content, though it lacks potassium and tends towards higher cost. PEAK Carb Gel offers good value and is ideal for those seeking efficient yet more budget-friendly energy delivery. Both require electrolyte considerations for extended events.

Questions about these products

Does Beta Fuel Gel have caffeine?

No, Beta Fuel Gel does not contain caffeine.

Is PEAK Carb Gel suitable for those with caffeine sensitivity?

Yes, PEAK Carb Gel is caffeine-free.

Can Beta Fuel Gel be used without additional electrolytes?

While it has substantial sodium, Beta Fuel Gel might still require additional electrolytes depending on race conditions.

What is the sugar content in each gel?

Beta Fuel Gel has 19g of sugar, while PEAK Carb Gel contains 13g of sugar per serving.

In the app

Picked your fuel? Put it in your plan.

Glyco places it on your race course by time, at the rate your gut can take, and tracks what you actually used.

A race plan with fuel placed on the course, in the Glyco app