The best peanut butter candies balance creamy peanut flavor, satisfying sweetness, and a format that fits how you snack. My best overall pick is Reese’s Miniatures Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups because they offer the strongest mix of familiar flavor, shareable packaging, and broad crowd appeal. For buyers watching sugar, Atkins Endulge Peanut Butter Candies make more sense than classic cups, while Peanut Butter Bars Candy – 2 Pounds is the better bulk pick for parties, offices, and candy dishes. The main tradeoff is simple: richer chocolate cups taste more indulgent, while bars and coated candies can be easier to portion, share, or fit into a dietary plan. Keep reading for the full breakdown of which peanut butter candy fits each type of buyer.
Key Takeaways
- Reese’s Miniatures rank first because they deliver the most familiar peanut butter-and-chocolate profile, but they are less specialized than the sugar-free, vegan, or protein-focused picks.
- Atkins Endulge is the strongest lower-sugar choice for candy-style snacking, while Quest Nutrition Coated Candies suits buyers who want more protein with a firmer, more functional feel.
- Peanut Butter Bars Candy – 2 Pounds beats the 1-pound version on value and event-readiness, but the smaller bag is better for buyers who want variety without overbuying.
- Sugar Free Peanut Butter Bars stand out for dietary flexibility because they are sugar free, gluten free, vegan, and kosher, though that broad fit may come with a less classic candy-shop flavor.
- Golden Crunchies Molasses Peanut Candy is the most distinctive pick, with a crunchy molasses profile that works for old-fashioned candy fans but may not satisfy someone craving creamy peanut butter cups.
| Sugar Free Peanut Butter Bars – 1 Pound Individually Wrapped – Gluten Free, Vegan, Kosher |  | Best Sugar-Free Classic | Weight: 1 pound | Primary Flavor: Peanut butter | Sugar Profile: Sugar-free | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Atkins Endulge Peanut Butter Candies, 4 Packs (5 Count Each) |  | Best Low-Carb Portion Pack | Net Carbs: 2g per serving | Sugar: 2g per serving | Package Size: 4 packs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Peanut Butter Bars Candy – 2 Pounds (Approx 120 Pieces), Individually Wrapped Old Fashioned Treats |  | Best Bulk Buy | Weight: 2 pounds | Piece Count: Approximately 120 pieces | Packaging: Bulk bag, individually wrapped | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Reese’s Miniatures Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups, Candy Party Pack, 30 oz |  | Best Chocolate Peanut Butter Candy | Weight: 30 oz | Candy Type: Reese’s Miniatures | Flavor: Milk chocolate and peanut butter | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Quest Nutrition Coated Candies, Peanut Butter, 12 Count |  | Best High-Protein Pick | Sugar: 1g | Protein: 10g | Net Carbs: 4g | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Peanut Butter Bars Candy – 1 Pound |  | Best Smaller Bulk Bag | Weight: 1 pound | Piece Count: Approx. 60 pieces | Candy Style: Old-fashioned peanut butter bars | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Golden Crunchies Molasses Peanut Candy – 1 Pound |  | Best Molasses Peanut Crunch | Weight: 1 pound | Candy Style: Molasses peanut candy | Primary Ingredients: Roasted peanuts and molasses | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| peanut butter candie | Weight | Packaging | Texture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sugar Free Peanut Butter Bars | 1 pound | Individually wrapped | Creamy and crunchy |
| Atkins Endulge Peanut Butter C | — | — | — |
| Peanut Butter Bars Candy | 2 pounds | Bulk bag, individually wrapped | — |
| Reese’s Miniatures Milk Chocol | 30 oz | Individually wrapped | Creamy peanut butter with milk chocolate shell |
| Quest Nutrition Coated Candies | — | — | — |
| Peanut Butter Bars Candy | 1 pound | — | Crunchy |
| Golden Crunchies Molasses Pean | 1 pound | Resealable container | Crunchy |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Sugar Free Peanut Butter Bars – 1 Pound Individually Wrapped – Gluten Free, Vegan, Kosher
I rank Sugar Free Peanut Butter Bars highest for buyers who want an old-fashioned peanut butter candy without regular sugar. Compared with Atkins Endulge Peanut Butter Candies, this pick feels more like a bulk candy bowl option than a portioned diet snack, since the 1-pound bag and individually wrapped pieces work better for sharing, gifting, or office jars. The vegan, gluten-free, and kosher labels also make it easier to serve mixed groups than Quest, which uses dairy-based protein. The tradeoff is flavor range and texture expectation: this is a nostalgic peanut butter bar, not a chocolate-peanut butter cup like Reese’s Miniatures. It may also read sweet despite being sugar-free, especially for buyers who prefer roasted, salty peanut flavor.
Pros:- Sugar-free format fits diabetic and low-sugar snack needs
- Vegan, gluten-free, and kosher labels suit mixed-diet groups
- Individually wrapped pieces are easy to share or gift
- Creamy-crunchy texture gives it a nostalgic candy-bar feel
Cons:- Limited flavor variety compared with chocolate peanut butter candies
- Sugar-free sweetness may taste too intense for some buyers
- Smaller 1-pound bag is less event-ready than the 2-pound bulk bars
Best for: Diabetic, vegan, gluten-free, or kosher shoppers who want shareable peanut butter candy without regular sugar.
Not ideal for: Chocolate-peanut butter fans who want a Reese’s-style cup or buyers who dislike sugar-free sweetness.
- Weight:1 pound
- Primary Flavor:Peanut butter
- Sugar Profile:Sugar-free
- Dietary Labels:Vegan, gluten free, kosher
- Packaging:Individually wrapped
- Texture:Creamy and crunchy
- Best Use:Gifting, events, low-sugar snacking
Our verdict“This is the best fit when dietary flexibility matters more than chocolate richness.”
Atkins Endulge Peanut Butter Candies, 4 Packs (5 Count Each)
Atkins Endulge Peanut Butter Candies make the most sense for low-carb buyers who want peanut butter candy in controlled servings. Compared with the 2-pound Peanut Butter Bars Candy, this is far less useful for filling a party bowl, but much better for a desk drawer, lunch bag, or planned dessert. The 2g net carbs and 2g sugar per serving give it a clearer nutrition angle than Reese’s Miniatures, while the 1-ounce packs reduce the guesswork that comes with loose bulk candy. The compromise is ingredient style and candy identity: this is closer to a diet-friendly sweet than a traditional confection. Buyers chasing classic peanut butter bar crunch or a broader flavor mix may find it narrow.
Pros:- Only 2g net carbs per serving for low-carb plans
- 2g sugar per serving is lower than standard peanut butter candies
- 1-ounce packs make portion control simple
- Creamy peanut butter flavor fits sweet-craving moments
Cons:- Not as economical for events as bulk peanut butter bars
- Flavor selection is narrow
- May taste more like a diet candy than a classic confection
Best for: Low-carb snackers who want pre-portioned peanut butter candy for lunches, commuting, or planned desserts.
Not ideal for: Party hosts or traditional candy buyers who want a large, classic bulk bag for sharing.
- Net Carbs:2g per serving
- Sugar:2g per serving
- Package Size:4 packs
- Servings:5 candies per pack
- Candy Size:1 oz per pack
- Flavor:Peanut butter
- Format:Convenient serving packs
Our verdict“Pick this when portion control and low carbs matter more than old-fashioned candy character.”
Peanut Butter Bars Candy – 2 Pounds (Approx 120 Pieces), Individually Wrapped Old Fashioned Treats
I would choose Peanut Butter Bars Candy – 2 Pounds when quantity, nostalgia, and easy sharing are the priority. Compared with the 1-pound Sugar Free Peanut Butter Bars, this bag doubles down on classic old-fashioned candy rather than special-diet positioning, and the approximately 120 individually wrapped pieces make it better for parties, reception bowls, baking mix-ins, and candy buffets. It also beats Reese’s Miniatures on peanut-forward crunch, though Reese’s has the stronger chocolate appeal. The downside is that this is still a sweet bulk candy, so buyers looking for low sugar should move toward Atkins or Quest. The product data lists simple, gluten-free ingredients, but anyone with strict allergy needs should still read the package before serving a crowd.
Pros:- Large 2-pound bag works well for events and shared candy bowls
- Approximately 120 wrapped pieces make serving easy
- Old-fashioned peanut butter flavor has broad nostalgic appeal
- Useful for snacking, baking, gifting, and party favors
Cons:- Too sweet for buyers who prefer salty or dark-roasted peanut flavor
- Less diet-focused than sugar-free, keto, or protein candy options
- No chocolate layer, so it may not satisfy Reese’s-style cravings
Best for: Party hosts, office managers, and nostalgic candy fans who need a large supply of wrapped peanut butter bars.
Not ideal for: Low-sugar snackers or chocolate-first buyers who would be happier with Atkins, Quest, or Reese’s.
- Weight:2 pounds
- Piece Count:Approximately 120 pieces
- Packaging:Bulk bag, individually wrapped
- Style:Old-fashioned peanut butter bars
- Ingredient Note:Simple ingredients listed
- Color Additives:No artificial colors listed
- Dietary Note:Gluten-free ingredients listed
- Origin:Made in the USA
Our verdict“This is the practical bulk pick for classic peanut butter candy fans feeding a group.”
Reese’s Miniatures Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups, Candy Party Pack, 30 oz
Reese’s Miniatures are the safest crowd-pleaser in this lineup because they pair familiar milk chocolate with creamy peanut butter in individually wrapped cups. Compared with the Peanut Butter Bars Candy – 2 Pounds, Reese’s gives up old-fashioned crunch but gains a much broader chocolate-peanut butter appeal for holidays, fundraisers, and mixed-age parties. It also feels more indulgent than Atkins or Quest, which are built around carb, sugar, or protein targets. The 30-ounce party pack is generous, though not as piece-count heavy as the 2-pound bar bag. The tradeoff is nutritional: this is a sugar-containing candy with the usual peanut, milk, and chocolate concerns. Buyers wanting a low-sugar or vegan pick should choose another option.
Pros:- Classic milk chocolate and peanut butter pairing has wide appeal
- 30-ounce party pack suits gatherings and candy bowls
- Individually wrapped cups help with serving and freshness
- Kosher and gluten-free labels make it easier for many groups
Cons:- Higher-sugar choice than Atkins, Quest, or sugar-free bars
- Contains common allergens tied to peanuts, milk, and chocolate
- Less peanut-forward crunch than old-fashioned peanut butter bars
Best for: Party hosts, holiday shoppers, and gift-bag makers who want the most recognizable chocolate peanut butter candy.
Not ideal for: Low-sugar, vegan, or dairy-free buyers who need a candy with stronger dietary alignment.
- Weight:30 oz
- Candy Type:Reese’s Miniatures
- Flavor:Milk chocolate and peanut butter
- Packaging:Individually wrapped
- Dietary Info:Kosher, gluten free
- Best Use:Parties, gifts, events, fundraising
- Texture:Creamy peanut butter with milk chocolate shell
Our verdict“Choose Reese’s when crowd familiarity and chocolate appeal beat low-sugar goals.”
Quest Nutrition Coated Candies, Peanut Butter, 12 Count
Quest Nutrition Coated Candies earn their spot by treating peanut butter candy like a macro-aware snack rather than a party sweet. The 10g protein and 1g sugar profile separates it from Reese’s Miniatures, which is the better classic candy but not the better post-lunch or gym-bag choice. Compared with Atkins Endulge, Quest raises the protein payoff, though it also has more net carbs at 4g and a more nutrition-bar-adjacent identity. The 12-count format is convenient for repeat snacking, not for filling a bowl at a birthday party. The biggest limitation is dietary fit: dairy-based proteins rule it out for vegan or dairy-free buyers, and anyone wanting an old-fashioned crunchy peanut butter bar should look at the bulk candy options instead.
Pros:- 10g protein per serving gives it more snack value than standard candy
- Only 1g sugar fits low-sugar eating plans
- Keto-friendly and gluten-free positioning suits macro-focused buyers
- 12-count format is easy to keep in a pantry, bag, or desk
Cons:- Contains dairy-based proteins, so it will not suit all diets
- 4g net carbs is higher than Atkins Endulge
- Less like traditional candy than Reese’s or old-fashioned peanut butter bars
Best for: Protein-focused snackers who want a sweet peanut butter candy with very low sugar.
Not ideal for: Vegan, dairy-free, or party-bulk shoppers who need either plant-based ingredients or a large sharing bag.
- Sugar:1g
- Protein:10g
- Net Carbs:4g
- Count:12
- Flavor:Peanut butter
- Dietary:Keto-friendly, gluten-free
- Format:Coated candies
- Protein Source Note:Contains dairy-based proteins
Our verdict“Quest is the right pick when peanut butter candy needs to work harder as a high-protein snack.”
Peanut Butter Bars Candy – 1 Pound
Peanut Butter Bars Candy – 1 Pound makes the most sense when I want the old-fashioned peanut butter bar style without committing to the larger 2-pound bag in the same lineup. Compared with Reese’s Miniatures Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups, this is drier, crunchier, and more nostalgic than creamy or chocolate-forward, which makes it better for candy dishes, lunchbox treats, and baking mix-ins. The individually wrapped pieces help with portioning and sharing, while the 1-pound size keeps it more manageable than the 120-piece version. The tradeoff is that it can read quite sweet, and the product data gives mixed gluten guidance, so strict gluten-free buyers should verify the package before buying.
Pros:- Manageable 1-pound bulk size with about 60 wrapped pieces
- Nostalgic peanut butter bar flavor that differs from chocolate cup candies
- Individually wrapped pieces are easy to share, portion, or pack
- Useful beyond snacking, including baking, gifting, and candy dishes
Cons:- May taste too sweet for buyers who prefer darker or saltier peanut butter candy
- Gluten information is inconsistent in the provided product data, so label checking matters
- Less rich and creamy than Reese’s Miniatures or Quest Nutrition Coated Candies
Best for: Buyers who want individually wrapped old-fashioned peanut butter candy for candy bowls, baking, or small-group sharing.
Not ideal for: Strict gluten-free shoppers or buyers who prefer creamy chocolate peanut butter candy, since the gluten details need label verification and the texture is crunchy.
- Weight:1 pound
- Piece Count:Approx. 60 pieces
- Candy Style:Old-fashioned peanut butter bars
- Texture:Crunchy
- Wrapping:Individually wrapped
- Outer Packaging:Sealed bulk bag
- Ingredient Note:Simple ingredients; no artificial colors listed
- Dietary Note:Gluten details conflict in product data; verify label
- Use Cases:Snacking, sharing, baking, gifting
Our verdict“I’d choose this for a classic wrapped peanut butter candy when a 2-pound bag feels like more than needed.”
Golden Crunchies Molasses Peanut Candy – 1 Pound
Golden Crunchies Molasses Peanut Candy earns its spot because it brings a different kind of peanut candy experience: roasted peanuts, molasses sweetness, and a firm crunch instead of the peanut butter center found in Peanut Butter Bars Candy – 1 Pound. I’d place it lower for anyone searching for classic peanut butter flavor, because the molasses leads the profile and there is no chocolate coating. Still, that makes it more appealing for buyers who want an old-fashioned brittle-like snack rather than another wrapped peanut butter bar. The resealable 1-pound container is more pantry-friendly than a plain bulk bag, especially for slower snacking, but the sticky sweetness can feel heavy if you prefer cleaner, saltier peanut candy.
Pros:- Distinct roasted peanut and molasses flavor sets it apart from peanut butter bars
- Crunchy texture works well for buyers who like brittle-style candy
- Resealable 1-pound container is practical for pantry storage
- Good fit for sharing or gifting when chocolate candy feels too expected
Cons:- Molasses flavor may overpower buyers looking for classic peanut butter candy
- No chocolate coating, so it may disappoint Reese’s-style candy fans
- Sticky sweetness can feel heavy compared with wrapped peanut butter bars
Best for: Buyers who like roasted peanut candy with deep molasses flavor and want a resealable container for slower snacking.
Not ideal for: Chocolate peanut butter fans or buyers who want a soft, creamy center, since this is crunchy, molasses-forward, and not coated.
- Weight:1 pound
- Candy Style:Molasses peanut candy
- Primary Ingredients:Roasted peanuts and molasses
- Texture:Crunchy
- Flavor Profile:Sweet, nutty, molasses-rich
- Chocolate Coating:None
- Packaging:Resealable container
- Use Cases:Snacking, sharing, gifting
Our verdict“I’d pick this for old-fashioned peanut crunch lovers, not for anyone chasing creamy peanut butter candy.”
How We Picked
I ranked these candies around peanut butter satisfaction, snacking practicality, diet fit, value, and crowd appeal. A candy moved higher when it made the peanut butter flavor central rather than incidental, came in packaging that made sense for sharing or portioning, and served a clear buyer better than similar options in the lineup.
The order also reflects tradeoffs. Reese’s Miniatures lead because they are the easiest recommendation for most buyers, while Atkins, Quest, and the Sugar Free Peanut Butter Bars serve narrower needs. The bulk old-fashioned bars earn their place through value and quantity, while Golden Crunchies sits lower because its molasses crunch is memorable but less aligned with the creamy peanut butter candy most shoppers expect.
| peanut butter candie | Packaging | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Sugar Free Peanut Butter Bars | Individually wrapped | Creamy and crunchy |
| Atkins Endulge Peanut Butter C | — | — |
| Peanut Butter Bars Candy | Bulk bag, individually wrapped | — |
| Reese’s Miniatures Milk Chocol | Individually wrapped | Creamy peanut butter with milk chocolate shell |
| Quest Nutrition Coated Candies | — | — |
| Peanut Butter Bars Candy | — | Crunchy |
| Golden Crunchies Molasses Pean | Resealable container | Crunchy |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Peanut Butter Candies
Choosing among peanut butter candies is less about finding one perfect bag and more about matching flavor style, diet needs, and serving situation. I would start with how the candy will be eaten: solo snacking, party bowls, lunch treats, low-sugar cravings, or protein-friendly substitutes.
Choose The Peanut Butter Format First
The biggest difference in this roundup is format: cups, bars, coated candies, and crunchy peanut candy all eat differently. Cups like Reese’s Miniatures put chocolate and creamy peanut butter at the center, so they suit buyers who want the classic sweet-salty bite. Old-fashioned peanut butter bars are better for candy dishes because they are individually wrapped and less messy, but they do not deliver the same chocolate-heavy richness. Coated candies from Atkins and Quest feel more portion-controlled and snack-like, which can help when a full candy cup feels too indulgent. Golden Crunchies changes the texture equation completely, favoring brittle-style crunch over creamy filling.
Match Sweetness To Your Diet Goals
Low-sugar and sugar-free peanut butter candies are useful, but they are not all trying to solve the same problem. Atkins Endulge is best for buyers who still want a candy-style treat with fewer sugar concerns, while Sugar Free Peanut Butter Bars make more sense when vegan, gluten-free, and kosher needs also matter. Quest Nutrition Coated Candies lean more toward a protein snack than a classic candy, so the texture and aftertaste expectations should be different. The common mistake is buying a diet-focused candy and expecting it to taste exactly like Reese’s. I would treat these as tradeoff picks: better fit for specific eating plans, less ideal for a purely nostalgic candy craving.
Think About Quantity Before Flavor Variety
Bulk candy can look like the best deal, but the right size depends on how quickly it will be eaten. The 2-pound Peanut Butter Bars Candy makes sense for parties, office bowls, classroom-style handouts, or households that already know they like old-fashioned bars. The 1-pound version is smarter for smaller homes or buyers sampling the style before committing to a larger bag. A party pack like Reese’s Miniatures offers broad familiarity, but it may disappear faster because the pieces are richer and more recognizable. If freshness and variety matter more than cost per piece, smaller bags can be the better buy.
Decide Whether You Want Candy Or A Snack Substitute
Some picks in this lineup are clearly candy, while others sit closer to a snack substitute. Reese’s Miniatures and the old-fashioned bars are built for sweetness and nostalgia, not macro balance. Quest is better suited to buyers who want peanut butter flavor with a more fitness-oriented angle, but it may feel less treat-like next to traditional candy. Atkins Endulge lands between those poles, giving a candy feel with a lower-sugar purpose. I would avoid judging every option by the same standard; the best pick depends on whether the goal is dessert, portion control, dietary fit, or a protein-friendly sweet.
Use Texture To Narrow The Final Choice
Texture often decides satisfaction more than the label on the bag. Buyers who want creamy centers should start with Reese’s Miniatures, while those who prefer firmer, wrapped candy should compare the 1-pound and 2-pound Peanut Butter Bars. If crunch matters, Golden Crunchies Molasses Peanut Candy offers the sharpest contrast in the lineup, though its molasses flavor makes it more polarizing. Coated candies like Atkins and Quest are easier to portion but can feel less indulgent than cups. When torn between two options, I would pick based on mouthfeel first, then sugar level, then package size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Peanut Butter Candy Is Best For Most People?
Reese’s Miniatures Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are the safest overall choice because they match what most buyers expect from peanut butter candy: chocolate, salt, sweetness, and a soft center. They also work well for sharing because the mini size feels easy to grab without committing to a large piece. Compared with the old-fashioned bars, they taste more indulgent and familiar. Compared with Atkins or Quest, they are less diet-focused but more satisfying as candy. I would choose them when pleasing a mixed group matters most.
Are Sugar-Free Peanut Butter Candies Worth Buying?
Sugar-free peanut butter candies are worth buying when sugar control is part of the decision, but they should be judged on fit rather than imitation. Atkins Endulge is the better candy-style lower-sugar pick, while Sugar Free Peanut Butter Bars add broader dietary appeal with vegan, gluten-free, and kosher claims. The tradeoff is that sugar-free sweets may have a different finish than classic chocolate peanut butter cups. If the goal is pure nostalgia, Reese’s is still stronger. If the goal is a sweet peanut butter option with dietary limits, the sugar-free picks earn their place.
Which Pick Makes The Most Sense For Parties Or Candy Bowls?
For parties, I would choose based on how formal or casual the setting is. Peanut Butter Bars Candy – 2 Pounds is the best value-style choice because the larger bag supplies many individually wrapped pieces that work well in bowls, offices, and event tables. Reese’s Miniatures are better when crowd recognition matters more than piece count. The 1-pound peanut butter bars are easier to justify for smaller gatherings, but they lose the bulk advantage. Golden Crunchies can be a fun extra, though its molasses flavor is more selective.
Should I Choose Quest Or Atkins For A Better-For-You Peanut Butter Candy?
Atkins Endulge is the better choice if the priority is a lower-sugar candy feel, while Quest Nutrition Coated Candies are better for buyers who want a protein-oriented snack. Atkins fits closer to a sweet treat replacement, so it is easier to compare with classic candy. Quest makes more sense after workouts, in lunch bags, or when macros matter more than a candy-shop texture. Neither should be expected to match Reese’s Miniatures for classic indulgence. I would pick Atkins for dessert cravings and Quest for functional snacking.
What Is The Best Peanut Butter Candy For Someone Who Does Not Like Chocolate?
Golden Crunchies Molasses Peanut Candy and the old-fashioned Peanut Butter Bars Candy are the best places to start if chocolate is not the main draw. Golden Crunchies offer peanut flavor through a crunchy molasses candy style, so they are better for buyers who like brittle-like sweets. The peanut butter bars keep the focus closer to classic peanut butter candy without relying on a chocolate cup format. Reese’s Miniatures are still the best chocolate-peanut butter pick, but they are not ideal for chocolate avoiders. I would choose Golden Crunchies for crunch and the bars for a more familiar wrapped candy texture.
Conclusion
My best overall recommendation is Reese’s Miniatures Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups because they offer the strongest mix of classic flavor, shareability, and broad appeal. The best value pick is Peanut Butter Bars Candy – 2 Pounds, while the 1-pound version is better for smaller households or first-time buyers. For lower-sugar snacking, I would choose Atkins Endulge; for protein-focused buyers, Quest Nutrition Coated Candies is the more targeted fit. The best specialty-diet pick is Sugar Free Peanut Butter Bars, and the best old-fashioned crunch pick is Golden Crunchies Molasses Peanut Candy. If I were buying for a group, I would start with Reese’s; if I were buying for a specific diet or texture preference, I would let that need decide the winner.
