Unbun Bagels vs Royo Bagels: Which Low-Carb Bagel Wins for Keto and Gluten-Free Diets?

Bagel lovers who follow a keto or gluten-free diet know the struggle: finding a bagel that actually tastes like a bagel without the carbs or gluten. Two popular contenders have emerged in the low-carb bagel space: Unbun Bagels and Royo Bagels. Both brands promise to deliver the chewy, satisfying bagel experience without the blood sugar spike, but they take very different approaches to ingredients and texture.

In this head-to-head comparison, we’ll break down the key differences between Unbun Bagels and Royo Bagels across taste, texture, nutrition, ingredients, and value. Whether you’re new to low-carb eating or a seasoned keto pro, this guide will help you decide which bagel deserves a spot in your breakfast rotation.

What Are Unbun Bagels?

Unbun Bagels are a gluten-free, grain-free bagel made primarily from almond flour, tapioca starch, and psyllium husk. They are designed to be soft, pliable, and close to a traditional bagel in texture while keeping carbs low. Each Unbun Bagel typically contains around 2–3 grams of net carbs, making them a favorite among keto dieters. They come in several flavors, including Everything, Plain, and Cinnamon Raisin, and are also free from soy and dairy.

One standout feature of Unbun Bagels is their versatility. They can be toasted, eaten fresh, or used as a base for sandwiches. The brand also offers a range of other low-carb products like Unbun Naan and Unbun Tortillas, so if you enjoy their bagels, you can easily expand your low-carb pantry.

• Gluten-free, grain-free, and keto-friendly
• Made with almond flour and psyllium husk
• Net carbs: ~2–3g per bagel

What Are Royo Bagels?

Royo Bagels are another popular low-carb bagel option, but they take a different approach. Royo uses a proprietary blend of wheat protein isolate, oat fiber, and inulin to create a bagel that is low in carbs but still contains wheat-based ingredients. This means Royo Bagels are not gluten-free, but they are keto-friendly, with net carbs ranging from 2–4 grams per bagel. They are also high in protein and fiber, which helps with satiety.

Royo Bagels have a denser, chewier texture that many compare to traditional New York-style bagels. They come in flavors like Everything, Plain, Garlic, and Tomato Basil. Because they contain wheat gluten, they toast up beautifully and hold their shape well, making them a strong contender for anyone who doesn’t need a gluten-free option.

• Keto-friendly but not gluten-free (contains wheat protein isolate)
• High in protein and fiber
• Net carbs: ~2–4g per bagel

Taste and Texture: Unbun vs Royo

When it comes to taste, both bagels have their fans, but they deliver very different experiences. Unbun Bagels are lighter and slightly more crumbly due to their almond flour base. They have a mild, nutty flavor that pairs well with sweet or savory toppings. Toasting them is recommended to improve texture, as they can be a bit soft straight out of the package. Many users say Unbun Bagels are the best gluten-free bagel they’ve tried, especially the Everything flavor.

Royo Bagels, on the other hand, are denser and chewier. They mimic the classic bagel bite much more closely, especially when toasted. The Garlic and Tomato Basil varieties are particularly popular for their bold flavors. If you’re looking for a bagel that feels like the real deal and you don’t need gluten-free, Royo is often the winner in texture. The Everything flavor from Royo is also a standout, with plenty of seasoning in every bite.

• Unbun: lighter, nuttier, best toasted
• Royo: denser, chewier, closer to traditional bagel texture
• Both offer an Everything flavor that is highly rated

Nutritional Comparison: Which Is Better for Keto?

Both Unbun and Royo Bagels are designed for low-carb diets, but their nutritional profiles differ slightly. A typical Unbun Bagel contains about 140 calories, 10 grams of fat, 6 grams of protein, and 2–3 grams of net carbs. Royo Bagels have around 120 calories, 3 grams of fat, 12 grams of protein, and 2–4 grams of net carbs. Royo is significantly higher in protein, which can help keep you full longer, while Unbun is higher in fat, which aligns well with a standard keto macro split.

For those strictly tracking net carbs, both are excellent choices. However, if you are also watching your calorie or fat intake, Royo may be a better fit. On the other hand, if you prefer a higher fat content or need a gluten-free option, Unbun is the clear winner. It’s also worth noting that Unbun Bagels are free from common allergens like soy and dairy, while Royo Bagels contain wheat.

• Unbun: 140 cal, 10g fat, 6g protein, 2–3g net carbs
• Royo: 120 cal, 3g fat, 12g protein, 2–4g net carbs
• Choose Unbun for gluten-free and higher fat; choose Royo for higher protein and traditional texture

Ingredients and Dietary Restrictions

Ingredients are a major deciding factor for many buyers. Unbun Bagels are made with almond flour, tapioca starch, psyllium husk, and eggs. They are free from grains, gluten, soy, and dairy, making them suitable for paleo and gluten-free diets. The use of almond flour gives them a slightly nutty taste and a softer crumb. If you have a nut allergy, Unbun may not be the best choice.

Royo Bagels contain wheat protein isolate, oat fiber, inulin, and yeast. They are not gluten-free, but they are low in carbs and high in fiber. Royo is a good option for those who can tolerate gluten but want to avoid traditional high-carb bread. They are also free from sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners, which some keto dieters prefer. If you have celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, stick with Unbun.

• Unbun: grain-free, gluten-free, nut-based, no soy or dairy
• Royo: contains wheat, high in protein and fiber, no sugar alcohols

Price and Availability

Both brands are available online and in select health food stores. Unbun Bagels tend to be slightly more expensive due to the cost of almond flour and specialty ingredients. A 4-pack of Unbun Bagels typically retails for around $9–$10, while Royo Bagels are often sold in 6-packs for about $11–$12, making Royo slightly more affordable per bagel. However, prices vary by retailer and subscription discounts.

If you’re looking to try both, consider ordering a variety pack or single flavors to test before committing. For example, the NY Style Bagels - Everything from Royo is a popular choice, as is the Everything flavor from Unbun. Both are available on The Greater Knead, so you can easily compare them side by side.

• Unbun: ~$9–$10 for 4 bagels
• Royo: ~$11–$12 for 6 bagels
• Both available on The Greater Knead

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between Unbun Bagels and Royo Bagels ultimately comes down to your dietary needs and texture preferences. If you require a gluten-free, grain-free bagel that fits a paleo or keto diet, Unbun Bagels are the way to go. They are soft, nutty, and versatile, especially when toasted. Their Everything flavor is a fan favorite and pairs perfectly with cream cheese or avocado.

If you don’t need to avoid gluten and you prioritize a chewy, traditional bagel texture with higher protein, Royo Bagels are an excellent choice. They toast up beautifully and hold up well for sandwiches. The Garlic and Tomato Basil flavors add variety to your breakfast routine. For those who want to try the best of both worlds, you can keep both in your pantry for different occasions.

• Choose Unbun for gluten-free, nut-based, and higher fat
• Choose Royo for traditional texture, higher protein, and lower cost per bagel

Whether you lean toward the gluten-free softness of Unbun Bagels or the hearty chew of Royo Bagels, both are fantastic low-carb options that make healthy eating feel like a treat. If you’re ready to upgrade your breakfast, explore the full selection of NY Style Bagels - Everything and other low-carb bagels available at The Greater Knead. Your perfect bagel is just a click away.