Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Walnuts vs Apple: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Walnuts is generally healthier

Walnuts comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (9g vs 0.3g), more fiber (6.7g vs 2.4g), less sugar (2.6g vs 10g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Apple

52 kcal

More Protein

Walnuts

9g

More Fiber

Walnuts

6.7g

Less Sugar

Walnuts

2.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Walnuts
654
Apple
52
Proteinper 100g
Walnuts
9g
Apple
0.3g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Walnuts
14g
Apple
14g
Fatper 100g
Walnuts
65g
Apple
0.2g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientWalnutsAppleDifference
Calories654kcal52kcal+602.0kcal
Protein9g0.3g+8.7g
Carbohydrates14g14g0.0g
Fat65g0.2g+64.8g
Fiber6.7g2.4g+4.3g
Sugar2.6g10g-7.4g
Sodium2mg1mg+1.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Walnuts

Per 100g:654 calories
Per cup (150g):981 calories
Per serving (85g):556 calories

Apple

Per 100g:52 calories
Per cup (150g):78 calories
Per serving (85g):44 calories

Diet Compatibility

Walnuts

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Apple

Low-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Walnuts

  • Higher in protein (9g vs 0.3g)
  • More fiber (6.7g vs 2.4g)
  • Lower in carbs (14g vs 14g)
  • Less sugar (2.6g vs 10g)

Common Uses

SnackingToppingsTrail mixBaking
View full Walnuts nutrition →

When to Choose Apple

  • Lower in calories (52 vs 654)
  • Lower sodium (1mg vs 2mg)

Common Uses

Fresh snacksSmoothiesDessertsBreakfast bowls
View full Apple nutrition →

Walnuts vs Apple: Nutritional Analysis

Walnuts is more calorie-dense at 654 calories per 100g compared to 52 for Apple, a difference of 602 calories. On the protein front, Walnuts delivers more with 9g per 100g versus 0.3g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Walnuts and Apple tell different nutritional stories. Walnuts provides 14g of carbohydrates, 65g of fat, and 6.7g of fiber per 100g, while Apple contains 14g carbs, 0.2g fat, and 2.4g fiber. The higher fiber content in Walnuts supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Walnuts contains 2.6g while Apple has 10g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Apple is the lower-calorie choice at 52 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Walnuts provides more protein (9g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Walnuts offers more fiber (6.7g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Walnuts or Apple?

Walnuts has more calories with 654 kcal per 100g, compared to Apple with 52 kcal. That's a difference of 602 calories per 100g serving.

Is Walnuts healthier than Apple?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Walnuts is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Walnuts has 654 calories, 9g protein, and 6.7g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Walnuts and Apple?

Walnuts has more protein with 9g per 100g, compared to Apple with 0.3g. Walnuts provides 8.7g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Walnuts or Apple?

For weight loss, Apple is the better choice with only 52 calories per 100g compared to 654 calories in Walnuts. Walnuts also offers 6.7g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Walnuts or Apple have fewer carbs?

Walnuts and Apple have the same carbohydrate content at 14g per 100g.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.