Starry vs. Sprite vs. 7UP vs. Mountain Dew: Differences and Reviews 2024

What are the most popular carbonated soft drinks?

Some of the most popular carbonated soft drinks globally include:

• Starry

• Sprite

• 7UP

• Mountain Dew

When it comes to choosing the top carbonated beverage brand, it's all about personal preference. But have you ever wondered what sets each of these brands apart?

That's exactly what my team of 10 and I delved into. We embarked on an exciting taste - testing adventure with these renowned soda drinks. We poured countless hours and heaps of effort into exploring the expansive universe of these beverages. Every single sip was meticulously analyzed and savored.

To provide you with the most profound insights, I took on the responsibility of compiling and presenting this precious information. I also incorporated the reviews of various tasters, ensuring you get a more holistic view.

The four best soda drinks

#1. What is Starry?

In 2024, within the beverage landscape, Starry is a relatively fresh face in the carbonated soft drink market. It presents a refreshing and citrusy flavor profile that, while reminiscent of classic lemon - lime sodas, has its own unique charm. 

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#2. What is Sprite?

Sprite is a well-known carbonated soft drink that is widely recognized for its lemon-lime flavor. It has a clear and sparkling appearance, and the carbonation gives it a lively and refreshing feel. The drink is often associated with quenching thirst on a hot day or as a complement to a meal.

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#3. What is 7UP?

7UP is another lemon-lime flavored carbonated soft drink. It has a smoother and less sweet taste compared to some of its competitors. The drink is known for its ability to provide a refreshing and gentle carbonated experience, making it a popular choice for those who don't like overly sweet or intense flavors.

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#4. What is Mountain Dew?

Mountain Dew is a unique carbonated soft drink that stands out for its bold flavor and high caffeine content. It has a citrusy base but also features a distinct blend of other flavors that give it a tangy and energizing taste. The drink's bright green color and strong carbonation make it visually appealing and highly recognizable.

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A quick look at the differences between 4 well-known snacks

	Sprite	7UP	Starry	Mountain Dew
	($6.98, was $7.84 FROM Walmart  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)	($5.36, was $7.36 FROM Walmart  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)	($7.48 FROM Walmart  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)	($7.48 FROM Walmart  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)
Taste and Flavor:	Bold lemon - lime flavor, consistent throughout with a nice balance of sour and sweet.	Smoother lemon - lime taste than Sprite, more mellow, with a hint of something extra for a complex flavor, less acidic.	Has a well - balanced lemon - lime flavor, with a crisp initial taste and a clean, not overly sweet aftertaste.	Intense citrus base combined with other flavors for a tangy and unique taste, with a more lingering aftertaste.
Sweetness level:	Standard sweetness for a lemon - lime soda, not cloying.	Slightly less sweet than Sprite, allowing the lemon - lime to shine.	Moderate sweetness that complements the citrus without overpowering.	The sweetest, with high sugar content contributing to its bold flavor.
Carbonation Level:	High carbonation with a characteristic "bite" that spreads the flavor.	More moderate carbonation than Sprite, enough for a lively feel without overpowering the flavor.	Good amount of carbonation, not overly fizzy, well - balanced for a nice sensation.	Similar to Sprite's high carbonation, combines with the bold flavor for an energetic experience.
Aftertaste:	Balanced aftertaste that's in line with its overall flavor.	A more refined aftertaste due to its less intense flavor.	Slight, clean, and not overly sweet aftertaste.	Lingering, with a combination of citrus and other flavor elements.
Appearance and Packaging:	Crystal - clear, fine and consistent bubbles, green bottles with dimples.	Clear, bright appearance, steady - rising bubbles.	Clear, sparkling with lively bubbles when poured.	Distinct greenish - yellow hue, visible carbonation.

Editor's review: Starry vs. Sprite vs. 7UP vs. Mountain Dew: Which one is best?

My number one choice is Sprite!

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❤️My first choice of soda is Sprite. I'd like to share my thoughts on it.

You know, there's a reason why I'm head over heels for Sprite compared to Starry, 7 - Up, and Mountain Dew.

Sprite's bold lemon - lime flavor is an absolute icon in the soft drink universe. It's a taste that's been with me since childhood, and that deep - rooted familiarity has forged an unwavering preference within me. With every single sip, the flavor remains steadfast from the first moment it touches my tongue to the last, making it an unfailingly reliable and deeply satisfying choice.

The balance of sour and sweet in Sprite is pure perfection. Unlike some other sodas that can be cloyingly sweet, Sprite lets the zesty lemon - lime flavor take center stage. This harmonious blend is what makes it an outstanding option, whether I'm pairing it with a delicious meal or simply reaching for it to quench my thirst on a sweltering day.

Sprite's carbonation level is relatively high, and it's a thing of beauty. The fine, uniform bubbles deliver that classic, invigorating "bite" that's like a burst of refreshment, especially when the sun is blazing. What's more, the carbonation works its magic by distributing the flavor evenly throughout my mouth, elevating the entire drinking experience to new heights.

When it comes to Packaging and Brand Image, Sprite truly shines. The green bottles and labels are not only a visual delight but also incredibly distinctive. The color green has become synonymous with the brand in my mind. The unique bottle design, with those charming dimples symbolizing the bubbles, adds an extra layer of allure. It gives me the distinct impression of a top - notch, expertly crafted product.

Sprite's status as a globally recognized brand can't be overstated. It dominates the market with a powerful presence, and years of brilliant marketing campaigns have etched it into the collective consciousness as a household name. This extensive recognition and positive brand image have subtly but surely influenced my preference for it.

The versatility of Sprite is truly remarkable. I can savor it on its own, relishing its pure, clean taste. But it also shines as an outstanding mixer in cocktails. Its clean and crisp flavor melds seamlessly with a diverse range of spirits, infusing my drinks with a revitalizing twist. This adaptability gives it a clear edge over other soft drinks in social gatherings and lively parties.

Finally, the availability of Sprite is a huge plus. It's practically ubiquitous - you'll find it in restaurants, convenience stores, vending machines, and supermarkets across the globe. This effortless accessibility means that whenever the craving strikes, I can always get my hands on a Sprite. And that, my friends, is a major reason why it reigns supreme in my book over other beverage options.

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Real Reviews and Comparisons of the Best Drinks

So, get ready to embark on this drink - filled journey with me! 

#1. Origin and history

►    Starry: 

Origin and history: 

Starry, a lemon - lime soft drink distributed by PepsiCo, made its debut in January 2023. This new entrant is strategically positioned to vie with the likes of Sprite and 7 Up in the highly competitive soft drink arena. In fact, January 2023 marked a significant shift as Starry replaced Sierra Mist as Pepsi's lemon - lime flavored offering. This decision was largely due to Sierra Mist's struggle to capture market share within the expanding category.

One notable aspect of Starry is its formulation. It contains no caffeine and, as of April 2023, comes in two varieties - Regular and Zero - Sugar. Unlike Sierra Mist, which used cane sugar as a sweetener prior to its discontinuation, Starry utilizes high - fructose corn syrup.

Social media has been abuzz with reviews of Starry. Many consumers note that it bears a resemblance in taste to its predecessor, Sierra Mist. Others, however, find its flavor comparable to Sprite, the long - reigning leader in the lemon - lime soft drink market. There's also a consensus that Starry has a more pronounced citrus flavor than Sierra Mist.

Popularity: Although it's a newcomer, Starry has been gradually building its popularity. Its fresh taste and modern branding have appealed to a younger generation of consumers who are always on the lookout for new and exciting beverage options. However, it still has a long way to go to match the widespread popularity of the more established soft drink brands.

►    Sprite: 

Origin and history: 

Sprite was originally developed in West Germany in 1959. It started as part of the Fanta line and was named "Clear Lemon Fanta". This was a time when the beverage industry was evolving, and new flavors and formulations were being explored. The creation of a clear lemon-flavored drink was a significant development in the soft drink market.

The Coca-Cola Company had acquired the rights to the "sprite" name in 1960 and used it for this new beverage as a competitor to 7 Up. In 1961, the lemon-lime drink we now know as Sprite was introduced to the US market. 

Since its introduction, the packaging and marketing of Sprite have always heavily focused on the color green, which has become strongly associated with the brand. The green bottles and labels have become an iconic part of Sprite's identity.

The bottle design has also featured dimples, which are meant to represent the bubbles in the carbonated drink. This unique bottle detail has been a part of Sprite's history for most of its existence.

Today, Sprite is available in over 190 countries around the world and has a large and loyal customer base.

Popularity: 

Sprite's popularity is widespread, especially in regions where consumers have a preference for citrus-flavored soft drinks. It is available in almost every corner of the world and is a common choice in restaurants, convenience stores, and vending machines. The brand's strong presence in the market and its ability to adapt to different consumer preferences have helped it maintain its popularity over the years.

►    7UP: 

Origin and history:

7 Up has a fascinating backstory that dates back to the early 20th century. It was first created in 1929 by Charles Leiper Grigg. Grigg was an entrepreneur in the beverage industry, and he had a vision to develop a unique and refreshing soft drink.

The original name of 7 Up was "Bib - Label Lithiated Lemon - Lime Soda." Quite a mouthful, right? This early version of the drink actually contained lithium citrate, which was believed to have mood - enhancing properties at the time. However, as medical knowledge advanced and concerns about lithium's potential side effects grew, the ingredient was removed.

In the 1930s, during the Great Depression, 7 Up managed to stand out. Its refreshing lemon - lime flavor offered consumers a moment of escape and refreshment during tough economic times. The name "7 Up" was finally adopted in 1936. 

Over the years, 7 Up continued to evolve. It became known for its smooth and less sweet taste compared to some of its competitors. The brand's marketing strategies emphasized its unique flavor profile and its ability to be a great mixer in various cocktails. In fact, 7 Up was often used in combination with alcoholic beverages, making it a staple in bars and social gatherings.

Popularity: 

Today, 7 Up remains a beloved soft drink, with its classic lemon - lime flavor still bringing a sense of nostalgia and refreshment to generations of drinkers.

7UP has a dedicated following, especially among consumers who prefer a more subdued flavor in their carbonated beverages. It is popular in both domestic and international markets.

►    Mountain Dew: 

Origin and history:

Mountain Dew's story begins in the 1940s. It was first developed by Barney and Ally Hartman in Knoxville, Tennessee. The original formula was created as a mixer, intended to be combined with whiskey. This unique concoction was initially sold in local stores in the Appalachian region.

The name "Mountain Dew" has an interesting backstory. It was inspired by the term "mountain mule," which was a slang term for moonshine during that era. The name evoked the idea of a drink with a bold and rustic charm, much like the mountain culture of the region.

In the early days, Mountain Dew had a strong connection with the local community. It was a favorite among the working class and those in rural areas. Its unique flavor, which combined citrus and other bold notes, set it apart from other beverages at the time.

In 1964, PepsiCo acquired the rights to Mountain Dew. This acquisition was a turning point in its history. Under PepsiCo's management, Mountain Dew began to expand its distribution and marketing efforts. The brand started to gain more national recognition and was no longer just a regional favorite.

Today, Mountain Dew is a global phenomenon. The drink’s bright green is a signature color, symbolizing its bold and energetic nature.

Popularity: 

Mountain Dew is extremely popular in certain regions, particularly in the United States. Its high energy and unique flavor have made it a favorite among those who need a quick pick-me-up or who enjoy bold and intense flavors. The brand's marketing campaigns, which often feature extreme sports, video games, and youthful activities, have also contributed to its popularity among the younger generation.

#2. Appearance

►    Starry: When poured into a glass, Starry has a clear, sparkling appearance with a lively stream of bubbles. The carbonation seems to be well-balanced, giving it an inviting look that makes you eager to take a sip.

►    Sprite: Known for its crystal-clear liquid, Sprite's bubbles are fine and consistent. It has a clean look that is instantly recognizable and associated with refreshment.

►    7UP: Similar to Sprite in clarity, 7UP also has a bright and clear appearance. The bubbles rise steadily, giving it a classic carbonated drink look that has remained unchanged over the years.

►    Mountain Dew: This beverage has a distinctively greenish - yellow hue. The carbonation is visible, but the color sets it apart from the others. It gives an impression of boldness and energy even before you taste it.

#3. Aroma

►    Starry: Starry has a light and citrusy aroma. The lemon - lime notes are fresh and not overpowering. It gives a sense of a clean, outdoor freshness that is really appealing.

►    Sprite: The scent of Sprite is dominated by its classic lemon - lime combination. It's a familiar and inviting aroma that immediately makes you think of refreshment on a hot day. The carbonation in the aroma gives it an extra zing.

►    7UP: 7UP has a more delicate aroma compared to Sprite. The lemon and lime are blended in a way that gives it a slightly sweeter and more refined smell. It's like a gentle breeze of citrus.

►    Mountain Dew: Mountain Dew has a unique and strong aroma. The citrus in it is combined with other flavor elements that give it a bold and almost tropical - like scent. It has a certain sweetness to it that is both enticing and distinctive.

#4. Taste

►    Starry: On the palate, Starry offers a well - balanced lemon - lime flavor. The initial taste is crisp, with a good amount of carbonation hitting the tongue first. The citrus flavors are bright and refreshing, and there's a slight aftertaste that is clean and not overly sweet. It's a great option for those who want a straightforward and refreshing drink.

►    Sprite: Sprite's taste is characterized by its bold lemon - lime profile. It has a slightly more intense carbonation feel than Starry, which some people love. The flavor is consistent throughout, with a nice balance of sour and sweet. It's a classic for a reason and has a taste that many grew up with.

►    7UP: 7UP has a smoother taste compared to Sprite. The lemon and lime flavors are more mellow, and there's a hint of something extra - perhaps a touch of vanilla or a unique blend of spices - that gives it a more complex flavor profile. It's less acidic than Sprite and has a more refined taste.

►    Mountain Dew: Mountain Dew is a flavor powerhouse. The citrus is intense, but it's also combined with a significant amount of sweetness. There's a tangy element to it that gives it an edge. The unique flavor blend of Mountain Dew makes it stand out, and it has a more lingering aftertaste compared to the other three.

#5. Sweetness Level

►    Starry: Starry has a moderate level of sweetness. It's not overly sugary, which makes it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter option. The sweetness complements the citrus flavors well without overpowering them.

►    Sprite: Sprite has a relatively standard level of sweetness for a lemon - lime soda. It's sweet enough to be enjoyable but not so much that it becomes cloying. The balance between the sweet and the sour elements is what makes it so popular.

►    7UP: 7UP is slightly less sweet than Sprite. The lower sweetness level allows the more delicate lemon and lime flavors to shine through. It gives it a more sophisticated taste in terms of the sweet - sour balance.

►    Mountain Dew: Mountain Dew is the sweetest of the four. The high sugar content is part of what gives it its bold and distinctive flavor. However, for some consumers, this level of sweetness might be a bit much, especially if they prefer a more subdued taste.

#6. Carbonation Level

►    Starry: Starry has a good amount of carbonation that provides a nice fizzy sensation. It's not overly carbonated, which means it doesn't make your mouth feel too tingly. The carbonation enhances the overall drinking experience.

►    Sprite: Sprite has a relatively high carbonation level. The bubbles are what give it that classic Sprite "bite" and make it so refreshing. The carbonation also helps to spread the flavor throughout the mouth.

►    7UP: 7UP has a more moderate carbonation compared to Sprite. It's enough to give it a lively feel but not so much that it overpowers the more delicate flavor notes.

►    Mountain Dew: Mountain Dew has a carbonation level that is similar to Sprite. The strong carbonation combined with the bold flavor makes for an exciting and energetic drinking experience.

#7. Real User Reviews

►    Starry: 

"I just tried Starry, and I have to say it's really good! The lemon - lime flavor is really refreshing, and the carbonation level is perfect. It's not too sweet either, which I appreciate. It's quickly becoming one of my go - to drinks."

"Starry is okay. The taste is kind of similar to other lemon - lime sodas out there. I like the fact that it's new and different, but the flavor could be more unique. The bubbles are nice, though, and it does quench my thirst."

"I'm not a huge fan of Starry. The aftertaste from the high - fructose corn syrup is a bit off - putting. The flavor is fine while you're drinking it, but that lingering aftertaste just ruins it for me. The carbonation is also a bit much at times."

"Starry has a great look in the bottle, very clear and inviting. The taste is a nice balance of citrus. I like that it's available in zero - sugar, which is a plus for me as I'm watching my sugar intake. Overall, a solid new addition to the soda world."

►    Sprite: 

"Sprite is an all - time favorite! The crisp lemon - lime flavor is always on point. It's the perfect drink to have with a meal or just when you're thirsty. The carbonation gives it that extra zing that makes it so refreshing."

"I love Sprite because it's so versatile. You can drink it on its own, or use it as a mixer in cocktails. The flavor is always consistent, and the green bottle just makes it look so cool. It's a classic for a reason."

"Sprite is a bit too sweet for my taste. I wish the lemon - lime flavor was a bit more dominant and that the sweetness was toned down. But it's still a good option when you want something fizzy and refreshing."

"I've been drinking Sprite for years, and it never disappoints. The availability everywhere is a huge plus. Whether you're at a gas station, a restaurant, or a vending machine, you can always count on finding a Sprite. The taste is just so nostalgic and refreshing."

►    7UP: 

"7UP has a unique charm. The flavor is lighter and smoother than other lemon - lime sodas. It's great for those times when you don't want something too strong. I also love using it as a mixer in mocktails for a bit of fizz and flavor."

"I'm really into 7UP. It has a delicate balance of flavors, and the lemon - lime combination is just right. It's not overly carbonated, which makes it easy to drink. I often choose it over other sodas because it's less harsh on my stomach."

"7UP is okay, but I feel like the flavor could be more intense. It's a bit too mild for my liking. However, I do like that it's not as sweet as some other carbonated drinks. It's a good option if you prefer a more subtle taste."

"I've always liked 7UP for its simplicity. The taste is clean and refreshing, and it's a great alternative to the more popular sodas. It's especially good when you're looking for something that won't overpower your taste buds. The fact that it's been around for so long shows its quality."

►    Mountain Dew: 

"Mountain Dew is my life! The energy boost it gives me is amazing. The flavor is so unique, a great combination of citrus and something else that makes it addictive. I always reach for it when I need to stay awake during long study sessions or gaming marathons."

"I love the bold flavor of Mountain Dew. It's like a party in your mouth. The carbonation and the tangy taste make it really stand out. I also enjoy trying the different limited - edition flavors they come out with from time to time."

"Mountain Dew is a bit too intense for me. The flavor is very strong, and the caffeine content sometimes makes me jittery. I can see why people like it, but it's not for me. I prefer something milder."

"I'm a big fan of Mountain Dew because of its association with extreme sports and the whole energetic image. The drink lives up to that. It gives you that extra kick you need, and the flavor is always exciting. It's a great choice for those who love a bold soda experience."

#8. Ingredient Lists and Nutritional Facts

►    Starry: 

Ingredients: Carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, citric acid, natural flavor, potassium benzoate (preserves freshness), potassium citrate, calcium disodium edta (to protect flavor).

Nutritional Facts: A 12 oz bottle of Starry contains around 150 calories, 39 grams of carbs, and 39 grams of sugar. The sodium content is 35 mg which is 2% of the daily value. It contains no fat or protein. Starry is a caffeine-free beverage, which makes it a suitable option for those who are sensitive to caffeine or looking to avoid it.

►    Sprite: 

Ingredients: Carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, natural flavors, citric acid, sodium citrate, sodium benzoate (to protect taste).

Nutritional Facts: A 12 oz can of Sprite has 120 calories, 33 grams of total carbohydrates, and 33 grams of added sugars. It contains no fat or protein, and the sodium content is 65 mg which is 3% of the daily value. Similar to Starry, Sprite is also caffeine-free. This makes it a popular choice for those who want a refreshing, non-caffeinated carbonated drink. However, the high sugar content means it should be consumed in moderation.

►    7UP: 

Ingredients: Filtered carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, citric acid, potassium citrate, natural flavors, calcium disodium edta (to protect flavor) for the original version. For the zero sugar version, the ingredients include filtered carbonated water, citric acid, potassium citrate, potassium benzoate (preservative), aspartame, acesulfame potassium, natural flavors, calcium disodium edta (to protect flavor).

Nutritional Facts: The original 12 oz 7UP has 140 calories, 39 grams of carbohydrates, and 38 grams of sugar. The zero sugar version, as expected, has 0 calories, 0 grams of carbohydrates, and 0 grams of sugar. The sodium content in both versions is 45 mg which is 2% of the daily value. 7UP is known for its lemon-lime flavor and is a non-caffeinated soft drink, making it a good alternative for those who don't want the stimulating effects of caffeine.

►    Mountain Dew: 

Ingredients: Carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup (or in some diet versions, other sweeteners), citric acid, malic acid, caffeine, flavorings, and coloring.

Nutritional Facts: A 12 oz can of regular Mountain Dew contains around 170 calories, 46 grams of carbohydrates, and 46 grams of sugar. It also has a relatively high caffeine content compared to the other three beverages, which provides an energy boost but may also cause jitters or disrupted sleep for some people. The sodium content is around 55 mg which is 2% of the daily value. The diet version of Mountain Dew has fewer calories and less sugar but still contains artificial sweeteners and other additives.

Conclusion

In 2024, each of these beverages - Starry, Sprite, 7UP, and Mountain Dew - has its own unique qualities. Starry brings a new and refreshing option to the table with its balanced flavor and moderate sweetness. Sprite remains a classic with its bold lemon - lime and high carbonation. 7UP offers a more refined and less sweet alternative with a delicate flavor profile. Mountain Dew is for those who crave a bold, sweet, and highly carbonated experience with a unique flavor blend. Depending on your personal taste preferences, whether you like it sweet, tart, or somewhere in between, there's a drink among these four that will surely satisfy your thirst.

My number one choice is Sprite!

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❤️My first choice of soda is Sprite.

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