The song features a , "gossamer" synths, and multiple vocal tracks that highlight Levine's upper range.
“Looking back into the more uptempo tracks, “Sugar” is a Michael Jackson-esque dance number, full of sharp breaths and flourishes.” Medium · Luke Goldstein · 11 years ago maroon_5_sugar_audio_full_hq
Fans and professional reviewers often debate whether the song is a classic pop hit or a corporate creation. The song features a , "gossamer" synths, and
Reviewers from AllMusic and Idolator called it a "ridiculously catchy jam" and a "highlight" of the album. The song features a
Others found the production over-processed; Entertainment Weekly labeled it "simultaneously empty and cluttered," while some reviewers noted a strong (and perhaps lazy) resemblance to Katy Perry’s "Birthday".