10 Best Creatine Supplements Compared & Fully Reviewed
Steph Coelho
Sarah Coryell
In a Hurry? The test winner after 11 hrs of research
Vegan-friendly
Easily digestible
Works effectively
Great value
Blends well into various liquids
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Bulk Supplements -
JYM Supplement Science
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Optimum Nutrition
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BSN N.O.-XPLODE Pre-Workout
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Growth Surge Post Workout
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MET-Rx
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NOW Sports
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Genius Creatine Powder
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BPI Sports
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CON-CRET
- Criteria Used for Evaluation
- Other Factors to Consider
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sources
Our Favorite Creatine Supplements
1. Bulk Supplements
Vegan-friendly
Easily digestible
Works effectively
Great value
Blends well into various liquids
Tends to settle and requires a shake to mix in again
This option comes in powdered form, is flavorless and is suitable for use by vegans. Reviewers tolerated it well, liked that it had no aftertaste, and blended well into whatever liquid they were using.
Read moreEffectiveness
Reviewers consistently raved about the results achieved with this monohydrate powder. Some were so impressed that they went on to purchase multiple products from the company. Reviewers felt they had more energy and were able to perform better during their workouts.
Toleration
Reviewers tolerated this product quite well. Some even pointed out that the powder did not cause bloating that others did. Digests well without causing upset an stomach.
Taste
The micronized powder blends very well into water and other liquids so the taste is barely there. The flavorless powder is easy to swallow and has no yucky aftertaste. Requires a shake every once in a while if you let it sit and some did find it tasted chalky but it was immeasurably better than similar products on the market. Some reviewers did note an unpleasant aftertaste but they were in the minority.
Cost and Value
The product offers superior value for the amount paid. Moreover, it is cheaper than similar products on the market.
2. JYM Supplement Science
Effective supplement consistently helps with strength and endurance
Tolerated well by athletes
Mixes well
Comes in a few flavours and in capsule form
Mixed reviews about the taste
JYM Supplement Science allows you to recover faster after your runs and workout sessions and improve your lean muscle mass development with every session you finish. It is easy to use and delivers a powerful dose of creatine and other nutrients so your body recovers, stays energized, and maintains overall balance and health.
Read moreEffectiveness
Only the finest of ingredients are used in the formulation of JYM Supplement Science. This supplement utilizes only premium-grade ingredients that have been shown to improve workout performance and maintain a healthy system balances day in and day out.
Potency
Designed by world-renowned exercise and nutritional scientist Dr. Jim Stoppani, JYM Supplement Science contains 13 hand-picked ingredients designed to support the highest levels of fitness.
Use
Any runners use this powder supplement great after a workout to boost recovery and to help them build muscle mass and burn fat faster. You can also use it on non-workout days to keep your body fuelled and energized. It is easy to adjust the dosage for workout versus non-workout days so you can get the potency you need each and every day.
Value
This supplement is a bit more expensive than some others but its value comes from the powerful dose of nutrients and the great benefits you can enjoy after continued use. The JYM Supplement Science blend is a great choice for runners of all skill levels.
3. Optimum Nutrition
Delivers results
Unflavored option has no bad aftertaste
Very good value
Large quantity
Rapidly absorbed by the body
No fillers
Mixes poorly
Results in a gritty texture
Doesn't come with a scoop or spoon
Difficult to get the powder out of the tub
This performance enhancing is the number one seller in its category on Amazon and there's a good reason for it. It gets consistently high ratings from reviewers. The unflavored product delivers 99.9 percent pure.
Read moreEffectiveness
Delivers on its advertised promise. It helps to increase strength, boost energy, and improve focus. The majority of reviewers agreed that the product was very effective.
Toleration
The fact that it's micronized means that it's easier to digest. Micronization ensures that it is rapidly absorbed by the body. There are no other ingredients in this mix that might cause stomach issues.
Taste
There's only one flavor option with this powder: unflavored. Some might prefer to have a wide selection of flavors to mix in with water but reviewers did like the tasteless powder. There's no gross aftertaste when mixed with water. The product doesn't mix as well as other options, though. Users noticed a lot of sediment forming at the bottom of their cups or bottles and extra shaking is necessary to mix it up. Some users also complained of a gritty texture when using this powder. If you're worried about texture and taste getting in the way, just mix it with something already flavored like a protein shake or juice.
Cost and Value
Super inexpensive compared to other product options. You won't run out of this stuff very easily because you get a lot of it. One tub will likely last up to a year.
4. BSN N.O.-XPLODE Pre-Workout
Provides an intense energy boost
No energy crash
Enhances endurance
Good value
Palatable flavors
Mixes well without sediment
Well-tolerated by users
Caffeinated version may not be tolerated by some users
This product is a pre-workout blend made to improve endurance and performance. There's even a caffeine free version for those who are sensitive to stimulants. If you prefer an extra energy boost, the caffeinated version contains 275mg of the stuff to wake you and your body up. The blend also comes in various flavors like Fruit punch and Watermelon.
Read moreEffectiveness
Reviewers agreed that the product delivers on its promise to increase energy levels and endurance. Users didn't experience uncomfortable jitters after taking the product. They felt ready to take on hard workouts and keep pumping iron. Reviewers who tried the caffeinated version liked how much energy it gave them, even for early morning workouts.
Toleration
Thankfully, there are caffeinated and non-caffeinated versions of this product. For those who can tolerate it, the caffeine provides an extra boost. A few reviewers found that they could not tolerate the high caffeine content and opted for the un-caffeinated version. If taking the caffeinated version, avoid taking it at or before bedtime. A few users did find they felt a bit bloated after using the powder but didn't cite this as a deal breaker. Users liked that they could get an energy boost without the crash.
Taste
The product comes in a variety of flavors that mix well with water. Reviewers liked the taste. Reviewers have their particular flavor favorites but many liked the watermelon and fruit punch versions. One reviewer suggested mixing in the flavored powder with sparkling water to mimic a soda drink. Some users complained that the formula doesn't do well in a Shaker cup as it tends to foam up so just make sure to mix well with a spoon before drinking.
Cost and Value
You get a lot for the price. Reviewers were happy with the value they received. The serving count on the tub is accurate, you get your money's worth.
5. Growth Surge Post Workout
Effective product
Doesn't cause bloating
Mixes well
Great price
Takes long to dissolve
Some complain of an aftertaste
If you are looking for a new boost for your workout routine you may need a post-workout supplement with a powerful dose of creatine. Growth Surge Post Workout is a great powder blend that helps you recover faster and helps maximize your muscle building and fat burning potential.
Read moreEffectiveness
Each ingredient in Growth Surge Post Workout is backed with scientific results and are used to create a powder blend with the best results possible. You will enjoy improved workout recovery, lean muscle mass growth, and overall workout performance boosts. This supplement utilizes only premium-grade ingredients in science-backed doses.
Potency
Growth Surge Post Workout helps improve your workout results and also makes recovery faster so you can get to the gym or hit the trails again sooner. Start your next workout feeling refreshed and ready to go with more energy than you can imagine thanks to the power dose of creatine and other element found in this mix.
Use
This is the definitive muscle building supplement, comprising three key ingredients - Creatine, Betaine, L-Carnitine L-Tartrate. Consume this powerful powder post-workout and speed up muscle recovery and optimize the anabolic window so you burn or fat and build more muscle mass.
Value
Growth Surge Post Workout is priced about normal for a workout powder blend and is a great investment for runners and athletes who want a post-workout boost to their regiment.
6. MET-Rx
Comparable performance with powder formulations
No need to mix into water
Easy to take, no mixing involved
Mess-free
Excellent value
One serving is six pills, which some reviewers didn't like
If you're not a fan of powder formulations when taking supplements then here's a capsule version. This is easy to swallow and there's no need for mixing or tolerated unpleasant flavors. It's a quick way to take your desired supplement. This product is available in a 120-capsule version and another version with double the amount.
Read moreEffectiveness
Reviewers found this supplement was comparable to other quality products on the market. The pill format makes it easy to take these along when traveling or hitting the gym. Reviewers felt that taking this supplement helped them to feel stronger. Allows users to power through workouts and increase calorie burn by giving them the energy to go longer.
Toleration
Some reviewers didn't like the large serving size of 6 capsules since it meant having to swallow that many pills. Does dehydrate so it's important to drink a lot of water.
Taste
There's no need to worry about flavor with his, since it's in capsule form. A serving size is 6 pills, though, so make sure you're comfortable swallowing that many pills a day! The pill format helps reduce overall waste since there's no need to worry about sediment or properly mixing the powder into liquid. You know exactly what you're taking each time you swallow a pill.
Cost and Value
Reviewers felt they were getting quite a bit of value with this creatine supplement. The bottles of this supplement are quite big so you get a lot for the price you pay and the capsules should last a long time. Just keep in mind that one serving is equal to six pills.
7. NOW Sports
Works like it's supposed to help with increasing muscle mass, etc.
Well tolerated by users
Is not laden with additives
No nasty aftertaste
Great price
Doesn't always mix well
Some felt it had a chalky taste
This orange-branded powder contains zero GMOs and is fine enough that it dissolves easily in liquid. Because it's so fine, it also gets absorbed by the body much easier than powders with larger granules.
Read moreEffectiveness
Does what it's supposed to do. Reviewers noticed they got tired less quickly and had more energy to get through tough workouts. Users felt that they were getting a quality product for a good price.
Toleration
Reviewers pointed out that they felt the need to drink more water due to the dehydration caused by the intake. This was particularly noticeable with this powder. Does not contain tons of sugar. Some users did point out they did experience some nausea when taking the product but they were in the minority.
Taste
Some pointed out that the powder had a chalky taste when mixed with liquids. It also tends to clump up at the bottom but that's nothing a little extra mixing can't solve. Because it's flavorless it's easy to mix with your breakfast drink or smoothie.
Cost and Value
It's a low-cost powder that's effective and doesn't taste disgusting. One of the cheapest options available.
8. Genius Creatine Powder
Well-tolerated by most
No discernible taste
Does what it's meant to
Quickly digested
Chalky texture even when well mixed
Genius Creatine Powder is a great powder blend that has been designed to help you recover faster and improve your lean muscle mass development. It is easy to use and delivers a powerful dose of creatine and other nutrients that help keep your body balanced and in tip top shape.
Read moreEffectiveness
Each ingredient used in Genius Creatine Powder has been tested and is approved for muscle growth, recovery, and system balance. This supplement utilizes only premium-grade ingredients in science-backed doses. It is effective and a popular choice for runners of all experience and skill levels.
Potency
Genius Creatine Powder is great after a workout to boost your results and also makes recovery faster. You can also use it on non-workout days to maintain a healthy balance and maintain good muscle growth and metabolism day in and day out.
Use
With a specially designed advanced recovery fusion of german creapure, creatine HCL, and proven strength gainer Mangapower, this powder formula is ideal for lean mass building and workout recovery. Boosting your post-run results and body balance is never easier with this easy to use powder.
Value
Genius Creatine Powder is priced perfectly at a dollar or two per serving depending on where you buy it from. It is a great addition to any workout routine and is a supplement many runners are finding and using to improve their health and overall wellbeing.
9. BPI Sports
Provides a decent energy boost
Improves strength and endurance
Doesn't cause stomach issues
Taste yummy
Affordably priced
Some found the flavored options too sweet
This combination blend mixes six different types for maximum benefit. Helps promote muscle growth and endurance. The specific blend helps to eliminate potential bloating that comes with other products. Comes in three flavors and two tub sizes.
Read moreEffectiveness
This product doesn't contain caffeine but even without, caffeinated formula reviewers felt they got an energy boost from the powder. Overall, reviewers were impressed with the results they achieved.
Toleration
The special formula is meant to prevent nasty stomach issues but a few reviewers still said that the product caused some stomach upsets. Those with sensitive digestive systems may need to be more careful. Most reviewers liked that it was easy on the stomach and found that they experienced no ill effects.
Taste
Most reviewers liked the taste but some found it a bit too sweet. There's no chalky taste or texture with this powder and it mixes quite well into liquids. There's no sugar added which users also appreciated. This product has many positive comments regarding taste compared to other formulations. Reviewers particularly liked the Snow Cone flavor adding that it didn't taste like a supplement at all.
Cost and Value
It is priced fairly and provides enough servings that it should last a little while. Users appreciated the low price and felt it was well worth it. Many even mentioned they went back to buy more once their first tub was finished.
10. CON-CRET
Great for recovery
Helps build muscle
No unpleasant side effects
Unflavored option has a nice taste to it strangely enough
Expensive but a good investment
Con-Cret. Get it? Like concrete because this stuff is meant to help make you stronger. It's not just a clever name. This stuff works according to the rave reviews. It's easily absorbed by the body and doesn't produce unwanted symptoms like intestinal upset or bloating. That, and the packaging is pretty snazzy.
Read moreEffectiveness
Work well and is a great help for recovery. Reviewers were happy with their increased endurance. Users felt they were able to lift more and heavier weights and enjoyed the extra energy they got from taking it.
Toleration
The formulation ensures that users won't get upset tummies, bloating or any other nasty side effects. Reviewers liked that they didn't need a heaping scoop of powder to get an effective dose.
Taste
The powder comes in seven different flavors including an unflavored option. According to reviewers, the unflavored does have a bit of an aftertaste but it's rather pleasant. Most likened the unflavored option to drinking a lemon or citrus drink. Most flavors had some kind of sour aftertaste. Because one serving is smaller than with other types of powders, it's easier to mix in and down all in one go which reviewers really appreciated. Some felt the flavored options were a bit too artificial tasting. It also mixes super well into liquids.
Cost and Value
A little more expensive than other products but it's definitely a quality formulation that delivers results. It also provides a good serving amount. Small scoops mean that you're not using up the stuff as fast as you would. Some found the capsule format was a better value.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Effectiveness
What does it mean to be effective? It’s a tough thing to test unless you’re conducting some kind of strict scientific experiment. How did we determine the effectiveness of the products? We sifted through hundreds, if not thousands of reviews to find out what users had to say about the formula they were taking. A good powder or capsule should help athletes gain muscle, endurance, and strength. It is not a magical formula, of course, since users should be strength training, and following a healthy lifestyle. In other words, you can’t expect this product to make you swole if it’s the only thing you’re doing for your health. If it’s all you’re doing, it’s not exactly the healthy way to go. With all the above products, reviewers mentioned noticeable changes in their bodies and/or their ability to complete workouts. Some formulations with caffeine are meant to provide users with more energy and if that’s the promise, that’s what they should deliver.
Potency
Simply put, good products shouldn’t make you feel sick. Some users will be more sensitive than others, but for the most part, you don’t want to ingest something if it’s going to make you feel bad. Results aren’t worth it if you’re going to get an upset stomach every time you consume a capsule or powder. Some folks are more prone to bloating but there are plenty of formulations that are meant to reduce the chances of this happening. Caffeinated options may deliver a big energy boost but may be less well tolerated by some with caffeine sensitivity. Careful when choosing products if you are very sensitive to stimulants and if you choose to go with a caffeinated option, don’t take it near your bedtime as it could interrupt your sleep.
Use
You want an additive to work as advertised and go down easy without causing bloating or indigestion. You also want it to taste good. It’s incredibly difficult to make a habit out of taking a product if you’re having to choke it down every time. Powders can come in both flavored and unflavored options. Unflavored powders are a great choice for those who can’t seem to find a good tasting product. If you’re picky and don’t like artificial taste going for a plain version is a good idea. You can mix this kind of powder with anything. Flavors are a good choice for those who prefer to mix additives into the water. We attempted to choose items without unpleasant aftertastes and without overly chemical tasting flavors.
You also want your powder to blend well. Powders do have a tendency to create sediment or residue at the bottom of your drinking vessel, but most of the options on this list blended well enough that they didn’t have a nasty overpowering texture when ingested. If you are not interested in dealing with taste and want an easy no-mess way to include this in your routine, choose a capsule form. You just swallow it with water, no need for it to dissolve!
Value
Price matters. You’re taking these types of products which are an additional part of your nutritional routine. That means they’re not necessary for performance but they do help. If you’re going to purchase something that not technically needed for results, it should be worth your while. It’s an extra boost and purchasing these types of powders or capsules shouldn’t break the bank. If you’re concerned about overall value, look for powders with small serving sizes. Usually, micronized options offer up smaller scoop sizes because they are finer powders. Pay attention to serving size. Does one brand require two scoops for one serving versus another brand that’s one scoop per serving? What does the container say about the servings included? Does the tub talk about scoops instead of servings? You may need to do a bit of math to figure out whether a product is really worthwhile.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Effectiveness Potency Use Value 
It is very important to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated anytime but even more so while using creatine. Creatine pulls water into your muscle cells. If you do not hydrate enough it will pull the water from your internal organs causing other health related issues.
Other Factors to Consider
Side Effects
You can get this powder or capsules from natural sources so it's not necessarily bad to take it in additive form. You should never exceed the recommended serving size per day and users with health conditions like diabetes should always ask their doctor. Otherwise, it's safe to take products of the like. But some users may experience gastrointestinal side effects like loose stools, upset stomach, or cramping.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Will take this mess with my hormones?
While some products may interact with your body’s hormones, this does not.
q: Will taking these make me gain weight?
Technically yes. The point of taking this product is to help you increase your muscle mass so it should make you gain weight but not necessarily fat, as long as you are maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It’s also important to note that this does encourage the body to retain water which may result in bloating and apparent weight gain on the scale.
q: Is creatine the same thing as a protein powder?
It works a little differently than protein powder as it’s not a macronutrient. It helps with performance but won’t make your muscles bigger on its own.
q: When is the best time to take this?
It doesn’t actually matter too much but since it tends to cause dehydration, some recommend that it be taken post-workout.
q: Can women take these powders or capsules?
Absolutely. There’s no reason why women cannot. It has no effect on hormones so it’s totally fine for women to use it.
q: What’s the best way to take this?
Although powder form can have its drawbacks (mess, potential taste issues, and problems blending), it’s the form most likely to be quickly absorbed by the body.
Sources
- , 6 Side Effects Of Creatine: Myths Debunked, Informational Article
- , Creatine: What It Is, What It Does, and Its Side Effects, Men's Health Article
- , Creatine Vs. Protein Powder, Health & Fitness Website
- , Creatine: What Are The Benefits and Health Risks?, Medical News Website
- , FOODS HIGH IN CREATINE, Nutrition Website
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