Polar Seltzer Water Cranberry Lime, 12 fl oz cans, 12 pack

The Verdict

Let me start with the obvious: I’m reviewing a seltzer water on a page that says “coffee maker or coffee gear.” That’s the kind of category confusion Amazon sometimes throws at you. But here’s the thing — if you’re reading this, you’re probably a seltzer loyalist who’s tired of paying $8 for a 12-pack of LaCroix that tastes like someone whispered “lime” near a can of carbonated water. Polar’s Cranberry Lime is a different animal entirely.

What you actually get

Twelve 12-fluid-ounce cans, each holding 0 calories, 0 grams of sugar, 0 sodium, and zero artificial anything. The ingredient list is exactly two things: carbonated water and natural flavor. As shown in the product image, the cans feature Polar’s signature retro design with a bold cranberry-red background and a lime slice graphic — it stands out on a shelf full of minimalist seltzer branding.

The flavor: this is not a shy seltzer

Polar’s carbonation is famously aggressive, and the Cranberry Lime lives up to that reputation. The first sip hits with a sharp, effervescent bite — noticeably more carbonated than LaCroix or Spindrift’s lighter options. The cranberry flavor is tart and forward, not an afterthought. It lands on the front of your tongue like a cold cranberry juice cut with soda water, then the lime kicks in on the finish, adding a citrus brightness that keeps it from feeling heavy.

This is the seltzer you drink when you want to feel like you’re drinking something. It’s not a “water with a suggestion of fruit” situation. If you’ve tried Polar’s other flavors — their Black Cherry and Pomegranate are cult favorites — this sits on the same intensity level.

What buyers consistently say

With 235 ratings averaging 4.7 stars, the feedback skews heavily positive. One reviewer put it well: “This is the only seltzer I’ve ever bought twice. The cranberry is actually tart, like real cranberry, not candy-sweet. The lime makes it feel fancy.” Another noted the carbonation specifically: “Polar is the fizziest seltzer brand I’ve tried. These stay bubbly even if you sip them slowly for an hour.”

Multiple reviewers also mentioned using it as a mixer — it works well with vodka or tequila because the tartness stands up to alcohol instead of disappearing.

Where it falls short

The tartness is a double-edged sword. Several reviewers described it as “sharp” or “sour,” and one said it “tastes like cranberry juice that went slightly off.” If you’re coming from sweet sodas or mellow seltzers, this will be a shock. There’s no sweetness whatsoever — no stevia, no erythritol, no sugar. That’s a pro for clean eating, but it’s a con if you’re trying to transition off soda and need something with a softer edge.

There’s also a packaging complaint worth noting. The cans ship in a cardboard tray with no plastic rings, and a few buyers reported dented cans upon arrival. It’s cosmetic — the cans still sealed fine — but if you’re gifting or stocking a pantry, inspect them on delivery.

Finally, the cranberry-lime combo is polarizing. You’ll either love it or find it medicinal. There’s no in-between, and Amazon reviews reflect that split.

Who should buy this

• Seltzer purists who want real carbonation and don’t mind tart flavors
• Low-sugar dieters who need a flavorful zero-calorie drink that doesn’t taste like artificial sweetener
• Cocktail enthusiasts looking for a mixer that adds flavor without sugar
• LaCroix refugees who are tired of “barely there” flavor profiles

Skip it if you prefer sweet drinks, mellow carbonation, or flavors like lemon-lime that play it safe. Also skip if you’re sensitive to tartness — the cranberry here is genuinely sour.

FAQ

Is this sweetened at all? No. Zero sugar, zero artificial sweeteners. The flavor comes entirely from natural extracts. It’s 100% unsweetened, which is why it tastes tart rather than candy-like.

How does this compare to LaCroix’s Cran-Raspberry? Polar’s is significantly more carbonated and has a stronger, more authentic cranberry flavor. LaCroix’s version is more subtle and slightly fruitier. If you want intensity, go Polar.

Does the lime flavor actually come through? Yes, but it’s a supporting note, not the star. You taste cranberry first, then lime on the finish. It brightens the tartness without turning it into a citrus drink.

The Verdict

Buy it if you want a bold, zero-sugar seltzer with real flavor and aggressive carbonation — especially if you’re tired of watered-down options.

Skip it if you prefer sweet or gentle seltzers, or if tart cranberry isn’t your thing.

Rating: 4.6/5 — It loses half a star for the shipping dents and the polarizing flavor profile, but for what it is — a clean, crisp, genuinely flavorful seltzer — it’s one of the best on Amazon.

Where to Buy

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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.