What is Light Beer? Definition, Types, and FAQs

The definition of “light beer” differs slightly depending on who (or where) you ask. Here in the UK, light beer generally describes beer with a lower alcohol by volume (ABV), while in the U.S., light beer is marketed as beer with fewer calories. 

Generally, lower alcohol does equate to fewer calories (since the alcohol contains much of the calories in beer). But to complicate things further, low-alcohol beers are not always light in calories, and low-calorie beers are not always light in alcohol.

It can all get a little confusing! Luckily, we absolutely love exploring all things beer-related on our blog, and in this post, we’ll shed light on the topic of light beer, including its benefits over regular and dark beer, and the different types of light beer out there.

What is Light Beer?

From muller light yoghurts to Nintendo Switch Lite, “light” and “lite” product options are available everywhere these days. But what does “light” actually mean when it comes to a pint of beer?

While “dark beer” is referred to as such because of its colour, this isn’t the case with “light beer.” Instead, (at least here in the UK,) a light beer is a beer with a lower alcohol content – typically ranging between 2.0% and 3.5%.

In the U.S., “light” beers are marketed as having fewer calories and fewer carbohydrates than regular beers, and as such appeal to health-conscious beer lovers.

For example, a 440ml can of Bud Light has 119 calories and 6.6 grams of carbohydrates compared to what you’ll get from a regular Budweiser: 172 calories and 12.3 grams of carbohydrates. Conversely, the ABV for Bud Light in the UK is 3.5%.

On the other hand, Coors Light contains 4% ABV, which crosses the threshold for what’s considered “light” in the UK. But, if you’re looking for the American version of “light” beer, a bottle of Coors Light only contains 102 calories.

Benefits of Drinking Light Beer

Lower ABV

Less alcohol means less likelihood of getting drunk quickly. Many people who drink light beers prefer them because they can enjoy a few drinks over a longer drinking session. They’re ideal for social get-togethers, BBQs, and casual drinking. Session IPAs and light lagers are particularly popular because of their refreshing taste and their (typically) lighter ABV.

Lower Calories

If you’re looking to restrict your calorie and carb intake while still being able to enjoy a couple of drinks, you may opt for light beers. Just don’t forget to check the nutrition information to make sure it’s the right type of “light” beer for you! North American brands like Coors Light, Miller Light, and Bud Light tend to be lower in calories (120 calories per serving or less), but, while they may contain less alcohol, they still (typically) have 4% or higher alcohol by volume.

Common Misconceptions About Light Beer

• Light beers taste watered down: Not all light beers taste watered down or lack flavour! You can get super tasty beers that are low in calorie and alcohol content.
• All light beers are low in alcohol percentage. Some light beers can still have a high alcohol percentage, which is why it’s best to always check the label.
• All light beers are low in calories. While light beers tend to have fewer calories than their alcoholic counterparts, they aren’t always “low calorie.” If you’re on a restricted diet, it’s best to check the label.

Types of Light Beer

Session IPA

As the name suggests, session IPAs are brewed for extended drinking sessions. Generally, these pale ales have reduced alcohol and hoppy bitterness compared to other IPAs. They’re easy to drink, but still tasty! Even with a lower alcohol content though, most session IPAs tend to contain around 4% ABV. 

If you’re looking for a nice session pale ale, check out our very own, super tasty and very popular “Good Morning Captain” at 3.9% ABV. 

Light Lager

Light lagers are the lighter versions of premium lagers, such as Miller Light, Bud Light, Becks Light… the list goes on! Light lagers are usually lower in alcohol and calories than their regular counterparts.

Table Beer (Small Beer)

Table beer, also known as a micro, small, and super session beer, sits somewhere between low Alcohol and session beers. These brews contain between 0.5% and 2.8% ABV, and most people can drink a few before feeling drunk. 

Low/no Alcohol Beer

Low alcohol beers contain between 0.5% and 1.2% ABV. Despite their name, most “no alcohol” beers contain between 0.0% and 0.5% ABV. That said, it’s important to remember that this much alcohol (0.5%) can be found in foods, too – including breads and rolls, ripe bananas, and even some fruit juices. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What’s the difference between light beer and regular beer?

Light beer typically contains less alcohol or fewer calories, or both.

2. Is light beer healthier than regular beer?

Light beer can be considered healthier because it generally contains less alcohol and calories than regular beer, but ultimately, this depends on your individual lifestyle and the number of drinks you choose to have. One pint of regular or dark beer may be healthier than several pints of light beer, for example. On the other hand, if you want to have a few drinks, light beer may be the healthier choice. Either way, remember to drink responsibly and check labels for accurate ABV information.

3. Do light beers have lower alcohol content?

Most light beers in the UK have lower alcohol content, but this isn’t always the case. If you’re drinking a new beer, check the label to make sure it’s what you’re looking for.

4. Do light beers have less calories than other beers?

Most light beers have fewer calories than other beers, but that doesn’t mean they’re low in calories. For example, a can of Bud Light contains 119 calories, which is the equivalent of around 6 teaspoons of sugar.