10 Best Creatine Supplements Compared & Fully Reviewed
Steph Coelho
Gabby Gabbard
High-intensity workouts can also be enhanced with creatine. It helps build muscle mass by feeding them as you train. Our researchers spent hours accumulating some of the most effective formulas on the market. As powerful a supplement as Creatine is, we felt it deserves its own 10 best line up.
Keep scrolling and get informed on why and what you need to get to bulking and healing your muscles, need some blood sugar control, there is one for you. We also have some helpful FAQS and Criteria sections that you can use to aid you in finding which 10 Best Creatine supplement is best for you.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 11 hrs of research
Vegan-friendly
Easily digestible
Works effectively
Great value
Blends well into various liquids
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
For the most part, creatine is creatine.
It is a basic, yet powerful supplement that has been scientifically proven to double muscle mass when used while training. The effectiveness of creatine supplements usually depend on what you are using it for and how much you are taking.
However, we suggest following the label or your doctor's orders when using any supplement. When taken in high doses for long periods of time, creatine has shown to cause dehydration and muscle cramping. Because creatine uses water from other parts of the body to feed the muscles, make sure you are drinking more than you normally would, especially if you are hitting the gym extra hard.
Furthermore, as we mentioned, it depends on how you are using the creatine. Do not expect it to magically make your muscles grow while your watching reruns of Grey’s Anatomy, although it does help. This is a supplement that works best with an active you, it bulks and energizes as you lift and run and gain.
For those that use it for other medicinal reasons, you will feel a difference and it is proven to aid in Parkinson's and level out blood sugar for diabetes sufferers. While it is still offering the same benefits, it is also helping in other ways. You may not see your six pack magically appear, but you may get better control over your healthy lifestyle choices; progress is progress.
Potency
The best creatine supplements aren't all created equally.
Some offer boosts of caffeine and other vitamins and minerals. This usually will affect the potency of a Creatine supplement and activate other parts of the anatomy as the creatine does its magic.
The most common side effects of very potent creatine are digestive and bloating issues. Also, as we stated earlier, muscle cramping and dehydration. This is usually caused by taking too much too fast and not hydrating properly.
When using a potent creatine supplement, you should take into consideration your activities. There are creatine supplements that are designed to be easier on the stomach. If you are someone who suffers more from issues of the stomach, searching out one of these is probably the best ideal.
There are many great articles and blogs that can help you better understand how creatine affects the body and how potency plays a part in how a formula should be taken. Always read the label and follow guidelines, that is why they are there. AS much as well love to inform, it is always a good idea to make sure you do a little research on your own for the safety of your own health.
Use
Use as directed by your doctor or by following the directions on the label.
You never want to take more than you are supposed to. Some products, based on purity and what else is in the formula can have some side effects.
Mostly designed for bulking and muscle gain, Creatine is an amino acid and can give you some pretty gnarly diarrhea and other stomach issues. However, as we said, by following proper usage, you will be able to get the best effects from your supplements.
Some are made in powder form and others are pill form, it all depends on you. When choosing our 10 Best Creatine Supplements we looked at how easy a powder dissolved and tasted as well as how potent a pill was. Pills can be a quick and easy way to get the creatine down while powders add a little flavor to your water.
Whichever you choose, using creatine is simple and when getting the best, it cuts down on side effects and chalky textures in mixtures. We spend a lot of time making sure that we are choosing the best and easiest supplements to use, so we're confident this won't be an issue and more a preference on what is the easiest for you personally.
Value
We understand that supplements can be expensive and we really try to find the best at a reasonable price.
Although price matters, it doesn't make a creatine supplement better. Most supplements price is based off what other benefits it offers. Basic creatine is fairly cheap and can give you exactly what you need without adding all the caffeine and other vitamins.
When looking at our 10 Best Creatine Supplements, you'll notice the price ranges differ. Look at what we put together so you can see what fits in your budget and what will work best for you.
Furthermore, when purchasing look into how much you'll be using versus how much you should buy. Sometimes buying in bulk will lower cost. Also, pay attention to how serving sizes in each supplement. Are you paying for 30 pills and having to take 3 a day?
This is a good way to average out how much something is going to cost you in the long run. I good supplement should last you at least a month and you shouldn't have to take exorbitant amounts to get the effects you need.
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: What is creatine?
Creatine is an amino acid that is usually ingested from red meats or seafood. When it enters the body it is transformed into a phosphate that aids adenosine triphosphate production- commonly known as ATP. ATP is a natural energy source that makes the muscles work more by pulling energy and water from other parts of the body.
Your kidneys, pancreas, and liver all make creatine as well. Unlike protein powders that give you other amino acids that need to be consumed to aid in the repair of the muscles, Creatine is a natural amino acid produced within the body, which helps level out sugars and energize.
Adding more creatine to the body has been proven to help with endurance and muscle gain. Other benefits of creatine are muscle gain in injuries and elderly patients that have lost muscle mass. It has been used in the treatment of heart failure as well as being studied in aiding patients that suffer from neuromuscular ailments and Parkinson's disease.
q: Does Creatine affect hormones?
Some studies have shown that creatine can raise anabolic hormones as well as reorganize testosterone into being more diligent rather than increasing it. Other than this, creatine has been proven to be safe.
Creatine does not really mess with your hormones, but more so works with them. It activates and turns them into more active forms to get the most out of your workout.
q: Does Creatine make you gain weight?
More muscle means more weight. With that being said, more muscle shrinks waist likes and adds structure to the body. Creatine, when taken with an active routine, is meant to increase muscle mass. Therefore, you will experience some weight gain when using the supplement.
However, without creatine, if you are exercising and working your muscles you may also experience weight gain. Like we said, more muscle means more weight, fat is light and fluffy and when it turns into muscle will get heavier, but slimmer.
What’s more, creatine is known to retain water to feed muscles, which can cause some water weight gain and bloating. However, if you are active, you’ll balance this out with your sweat so stay hydrated.
q: What are the differences in Creatine and Protein powder?
Creatine is used for endurance and helps produce energy and improve muscle mass. Proteins are for repair, recovery, and strengthening of the muscles, usually used before and after a workout.
So, to put it simply, Creatine is for energy and enhancement while protein is more recovery and repair. Both are a great addition to any high-intensity workout and can be used together or separately. They both have their benefits and work to aid the body in balancing out any active lifestyle while aiding you in getting the most out of your body.
q: When should I take my creatine supplements?
Although taking it before and after a workout enhances endurance and helps muscle growth, creatine is a supplement that should be taken daily. However, depending on the type of creatine you have depends on its use.
For instance. A pure creatine supplement is the best for daily use, up to 5grams a day is the recommended dosage for daily consumption. Other supplements that are specific to working out may include other ingredients. Therefore may only need to be taken as such.
If you are looking for a boost daily and in between work out schedules, we would highly recommend getting a purer form without any additives or other ingredients. If you just need a boost while you lift, get what is appropriate to your workout regimen. Our 10 Best Creatine Supplements lineup offers a few different styles that you can choose from to fulfill both needs.
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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