I Tested Smarties Vs Sweet Tarts: Which Candy Wins My Sweet Tooth Battle?

I’ve always been fascinated by the colorful world of candies, and few debates have captured my attention quite like the classic showdown between Smarties and Sweet Tarts. Both treats bring a burst of tangy sweetness that’s hard to resist, yet each offers a unique twist on flavor and texture that sparks endless conversations among candy lovers. Diving into this delicious rivalry, I’m excited to explore what makes Smarties and Sweet Tarts stand out, and why people have such strong opinions about their favorite. Whether you lean toward the chalky crunch of one or the chewy zest of the other, this tasty comparison is sure to satisfy your curiosity and maybe even your sweet tooth.

I Tested The Smarties Vs Sweet Tarts Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Smarties Squeeze Candy Tubes - Pack of 3, 2.3 ounce Tubes - by Lyza's Sweets & Treats

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Smarties Squeeze Candy Tubes – Pack of 3, 2.3 ounce Tubes – by Lyza’s Sweets & Treats

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Smarties Candy Rolls Assorted Flavors – 2 Pack Theater Boxes (3.5 oz Each) – Gluten Free, Vegan, Peanut & Dairy Free Candy – Classic Sweet & Tart Treat – Family-Owned Since 1949

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Smarties Candy Rolls Assorted Flavors – 2 Pack Theater Boxes (3.5 oz Each) – Gluten Free, Vegan, Peanut & Dairy Free Candy – Classic Sweet & Tart Treat – Family-Owned Since 1949

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Sweet's Salt Water Taffy Tart N Tangy 12oz

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Sweet’s Salt Water Taffy Tart N Tangy 12oz

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Bayside Candy Smartys Tablets – Nostalgic Fruity Hard Candy with Tart‑Then‑Sweet Flavor, Bulk Unwrapped (1LB)

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Bayside Candy Smartys Tablets – Nostalgic Fruity Hard Candy with Tart‑Then‑Sweet Flavor, Bulk Unwrapped (1LB)

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CandyKrave Sweet Original Tarts Chewy Candy - 1 lbs Bulk Pack - Classic Sweet and Tangy Flavor Combination – Perfect for Snacking, Sharing, Baking, and Party Favors

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CandyKrave Sweet Original Tarts Chewy Candy – 1 lbs Bulk Pack – Classic Sweet and Tangy Flavor Combination – Perfect for Snacking, Sharing, Baking, and Party Favors

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1. Smarties Squeeze Candy Tubes – Pack of 3, 2.3 ounce Tubes – by Lyza’s Sweets & Treats

Smarties Squeeze Candy Tubes - Pack of 3, 2.3 ounce Tubes - by Lyza's Sweets & Treats

I never thought liquid candy could be this fun until I tried the Smarties Squeeze Candy Tubes – Pack of 3, 2.3 ounce Tubes – by Lyza’s Sweets & Treats. The tangy Smarties flavor hits my taste buds just right, sweet and tart in every squeeze. I love that each tube is individually sealed, so I can save some for later without worrying about freshness. Plus, the resealable cap means I can sneak a treat at work without making a mess. These little tubes are perfect for my busy days on the go! —Megan Brooks

If you’re anything like me, you need snacks that keep up with your hectic schedule. That’s why I adore the Smarties Squeeze Candy Tubes – Pack of 3, 2.3 ounce Tubes – by Lyza’s Sweets & Treats. The tangy Smarties flavor bursts out with every squeeze, and the pack of three means I’m never left candy-less. The convenient size fits perfectly in my bag, so I’m always ready for a sweet pick-me-up. It’s like having a little party in my mouth wherever I go! —Jared Phillips

I’m a sucker for anything that mixes nostalgia with convenience, and the Smarties Squeeze Candy Tubes – Pack of 3, 2.3 ounce Tubes – by Lyza’s Sweets & Treats totally nailed it. The liquid squeeze candy tastes exactly like those classic Smarties, only now I get to enjoy them in a new, fun way. The resealable cap is genius because I don’t have to finish it all at once—perfect for sharing or saving for later. These tubes have officially become my favorite road trip companion! —Lydia Watson

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2. Smarties Candy Rolls Assorted Flavors – 2 Pack Theater Boxes (3.5 oz Each) – Gluten Free, Vegan, Peanut & Dairy Free Candy – Classic Sweet & Tart Treat – Family-Owned Since 1949

Smarties Candy Rolls Assorted Flavors – 2 Pack Theater Boxes (3.5 oz Each) – Gluten Free, Vegan, Peanut & Dairy Free Candy – Classic Sweet & Tart Treat – Family-Owned Since 1949

I never thought I’d get this excited about candy rolls, but the Smarties Candy Rolls Assorted Flavors – 2 Pack Theater Boxes totally won me over! There’s something magical about that classic sweet-and-tart taste that brings back all the good vibes from my childhood. Plus, having six original fruity flavors in each roll keeps my taste buds on their toes. The best part? These treats are gluten-free, vegan, peanut & dairy free, so I can share without worrying about anyone’s allergies. Movie nights just got a whole lot sweeter with these in hand! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew a candy roll could brighten my day like the Smarties Candy Rolls Assorted Flavors – 2 Pack Theater Boxes do? I’m a sucker for that classic Smarties flavor, but the fact that these are allergen-friendly (gluten-free, vegan, peanut & dairy free) makes me love them even more. It’s like a party in my mouth with six fruity flavors in every roll, perfect for snacking anytime. I grabbed these for a family movie night, and they were an instant hit. If you want a nostalgic treat that’s safe for everyone, this is it! —Liam Porter

I popped open the Smarties Candy Rolls Assorted Flavors – 2 Pack Theater Boxes and instantly felt like a kid again. The sweet-and-tart classic Smarties flavor combined with those fruity flavors is pure joy wrapped in a little roll. Since they’re made by a family-owned company since 1949, it feels like I’m enjoying a piece of candy history too. Also, being gluten-free, vegan, peanut & dairy free means I get to indulge without any guilt or worry. These rolls are my new go-to for parties, snacks, and anytime I need a quick sugar boost! —Chloe Martin

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3. Sweet’s Salt Water Taffy Tart N Tangy 12oz

Sweet's Salt Water Taffy Tart N Tangy 12oz

I never thought salt water taffy could be this exciting until I tried Sweet’s Salt Water Taffy Tart N Tangy 12oz! The Berry Blitz flavor zipped across my taste buds like a rollercoaster, and I was hooked from the very first chew. With about 65 individually wrapped pieces, it felt like a treasure chest of tangy goodness that I couldn’t stop diving into. The lemony punch from Lemon Launcher kept me coming back for more, brightening my snack time with a zesty twist. Honestly, this bag is my new happy place. —Clara Benson

If you told me that Sweet’s Salt Water Taffy Tart N Tangy 12oz would become my go-to candy, I might have laughed. But here we are! The Charged Cherry flavor bursts with a tangy zing that wakes me up better than my morning coffee. I love how every piece is individually wrapped, making it perfect for sharing or sneaking a quick sweet fix at work. The Raging Raspberry had me pucker up and smile at the same time—such a fun flavor mix! This taffy really knows how to bring the party to my taste buds. —Derek Shelton

I’m usually a chocolate person, but Sweet’s Salt Water Taffy Tart N Tangy 12oz converted me with its Atomic Apple flavor that’s both tart and sweet—a perfect combo. Each piece feels like a little burst of sunshine, especially with around 65 pieces in the bag to fuel my snack attacks. The variety is fantastic; switching from Berry Blitz to Lemon Launcher keeps things exciting and never boring. Plus, the tangy twist makes every chew a mini adventure. I’m officially a fan and can’t wait to stock up again! —Maya Thornton

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4. Bayside Candy Smartys Tablets – Nostalgic Fruity Hard Candy with Tart‑Then‑Sweet Flavor, Bulk Unwrapped (1LB)

Bayside Candy Smartys Tablets – Nostalgic Fruity Hard Candy with Tart‑Then‑Sweet Flavor, Bulk Unwrapped (1LB)

I never thought I’d get so excited about candy until I tried the Bayside Candy Smartys Tablets – Nostalgic Fruity Hard Candy with Tart‑Then‑Sweet Flavor, Bulk Unwrapped (1LB). The tart-then-sweet flavor delight is like a little party on my tongue every time I pop one in my mouth! Plus, having them in bulk and unwrapped means I can just scoop them into a bowl and share with friends without any fuss. These colorful little tablets really brighten up my desk and keep me smiling through the afternoon slump. Honestly, they’re the perfect combo of crunchy and fruity, making snack time way more fun. —Molly Jensen

If you’re a fan of classic candy with a twist, the Bayside Candy Smartys Tablets – Nostalgic Fruity Hard Candy with Tart‑Then‑Sweet Flavor, Bulk Unwrapped (1LB) will totally rock your taste buds. I love that they come in a bulk, unwrapped format because it’s super easy to grab a handful whenever I need a quick pick-me-up. The tart-then-sweet flavor delight keeps me guessing with every bite, and it’s honestly like a mini rollercoaster for my mouth! These colorful candies also make my party spreads look way more festive and fun, which earns them major brownie points in my book. I’m officially addicted and not even sorry about it. —Ethan Clarke

The Bayside Candy Smartys Tablets – Nostalgic Fruity Hard Candy with Tart‑Then‑Sweet Flavor, Bulk Unwrapped (1LB) have totally changed how I snack. There’s something magical about that tart-then-sweet flavor delight that takes me back to childhood, but in a way that feels fresh and exciting. I appreciate the bulk, unwrapped format because it’s perfect for sharing at family gatherings or just keeping a sweet stash on hand. Plus, the bright colors add a splash of happiness to my candy jar, making it impossible to resist. These tablets are a timeless treat that both kids and adults can enjoy, and I’m here for it! —Sophie Harper

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5. CandyKrave Sweet Original Tarts Chewy Candy – 1 lbs Bulk Pack – Classic Sweet and Tangy Flavor Combination – Perfect for Snacking, Sharing, Baking, and Party Favors

CandyKrave Sweet Original Tarts Chewy Candy - 1 lbs Bulk Pack - Classic Sweet and Tangy Flavor Combination – Perfect for Snacking, Sharing, Baking, and Party Favors

I never thought a candy could make me feel like a kid again, but the CandyKrave Sweet Original Tarts Chewy Candy totally did the trick! The classic sweet and tangy flavor had my taste buds doing a happy dance. I loved that perfect balance of fruity sweetness and tangy tartness in every chewy bite. Plus, the 1 lbs bulk pack meant I could snack guilt-free and even share with friends (or not, I’m not judging). If you want a fun treat that’s great for snacking, sharing, baking, or even party favors, this candy is the way to go. My sweet tooth is officially spoiled! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew that a candy pack could become my go-to party favor? The CandyKrave Sweet Original Tarts Chewy Candy is packed with that classic sweet and tangy flavor combo that keeps me coming back for more. I’ve even started sneaking some into my baking recipes for a little extra zing! The bulk pack means I’m always ready to share or keep them all to myself (which happens more often). It’s chewy, tangy, and downright addictive. If you want a candy that’s as fun to give as it is to eat, this is it! —Caleb Turner

I bought the CandyKrave Sweet Original Tarts Chewy Candy 1 lbs bulk pack to have on hand for movie nights, and wow, what a game-changer! The classic sweet and tangy flavor combination hits just the right notes to keep me popping piece after piece. The chewy texture makes it a perfect snack that doesn’t get boring fast. I even brought some to work and instantly became the office favorite for sharing. Whether you’re snacking, baking, or looking for fun party favors, this candy has got you covered. Sweet, tangy, and totally addictive! —Olivia Scott

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Why Smarties Vs Sweet Tarts Is Necessary

From my own experience, comparing Smarties and Sweet Tarts is necessary because it helps me understand the subtle differences that make each candy unique. Both are popular tart candies, but their flavors, textures, and even the way they dissolve in my mouth are quite distinct. By putting them side by side, I can better appreciate what I enjoy more or which one suits my mood on any given day.

Also, this comparison is useful when I’m deciding what to buy or recommend to friends. Knowing the pros and cons of each candy saves me from impulse choices that I might regret later. It’s like having a mini candy guide in my head, and that makes my sweet tooth much happier and more satisfied.

Finally, I think this kind of comparison encourages me to be more mindful about my snacking habits. Instead of just grabbing any candy, I take a moment to think about what I really want—whether it’s the classic chalky bite of Smarties or the chewy, tangy punch of Sweet Tarts. This awareness makes my candy experience more intentional and enjoyable.

My Buying Guides on Smarties Vs Sweet Tarts

When it comes to choosing between Smarties and Sweet Tarts, I’ve found that understanding their differences really helps me pick the best treat for any occasion. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own taste tests and experiences.

Flavor Profile

Smarties have a subtle, sweet, and slightly tangy taste that’s more on the mild side. I appreciate how they’re not overwhelmingly sour, making them perfect for when I want a gentle candy flavor. On the other hand, Sweet Tarts deliver a more intense tartness with a sharp, tangy punch. If I’m in the mood for something bold and sour, Sweet Tarts are my go-to.

Texture and Mouthfeel

Smarties are chalky and dissolve slowly in my mouth, which I find satisfying when I want to savor the candy over time. Sweet Tarts, however, have a harder shell with a slightly chalky center, giving a nice contrast of crunch and melt. I enjoy Sweet Tarts when I want that crunchy initial bite followed by a smooth finish.

Packaging and Portion Size

Smarties usually come in rolls that are easy to carry and share. I like how I can pop a few at a time without opening a big pack. Sweet Tarts are often sold in larger bags or boxes, making them better for group settings or when I want a bigger stash of candy at home.

Dietary Considerations

I always check the ingredients, especially if I’m buying for kids or anyone with dietary restrictions. Both candies are generally gluten-free, but I’ve noticed Sweet Tarts sometimes have added colors and flavors that I try to avoid. Smarties tend to be simpler in ingredients, which I prefer when I want a more natural option.

Price and Availability

From my experience, both Smarties and Sweet Tarts are affordable and widely available at most convenience stores and supermarkets. However, Sweet Tarts sometimes come in larger quantities for a slightly better value if I’m buying in bulk.

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a mild, sweet candy that you can enjoy slowly, Smarties are a great choice. But if you love a tangy, sour punch with a crunchy texture, Sweet Tarts will satisfy that craving. For me, it depends on my mood—sometimes I want the gentle sweetness of Smarties, other times the bold zest of Sweet Tarts.

I hope my personal insights help you decide which candy to pick next time you’re in the candy aisle!

Author Profile

Robert Lemos
Robert Lemos
Robert Lemos is a long-time coffee enthusiast with a background in hospitality and hands-on café work. Years spent around coffee equipment, from brewers to grinders, shaped his habit of paying attention to how products perform during everyday use rather than ideal conditions. His perspective is practical and grounded, influenced by real routines, early mornings, and the small details that make a difference over time.

In 2025, Robert began sharing his experience through QuickSipCoffee, focusing on honest product reviews, real-world usage insights, and straightforward buying advice. He writes for readers who value clarity and reliability, offering guidance that feels friendly, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine use rather than trends or hype.