The GGR Expert Panel is a network of specialized health and fitness professionals who help ensure we present the most accurate information to our readers. This includes physicians, certified trainers, elite-level coaches, and more. Learn more about our experts.
The GGR Expert Panel is a network of specialized health and fitness professionals who help ensure we present the most accurate information to our readers. This includes physicians, certified trainers, elite-level coaches, and more. Learn more about our experts.
The GGR Expert Panel is a network of specialized health and fitness professionals who help ensure we present the most accurate information to our readers. This includes physicians, certified trainers, elite-level coaches, and more. Learn more about our experts.
The GGR Expert Panel is a network of specialized health and fitness professionals who help ensure we present the most accurate information to our readers. This includes physicians, certified trainers, elite-level coaches, and more. Learn more about our experts.
We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. If you use our links to purchase something, we may earn a commission. Read our disclosures.
Creatine has long been a tried and true supplement for active people whether they want to gain more lean muscle mass or support performance. Not only does this amino acid replenish energy stores and have positive effects on muscle strength and size, other creatine benefits include potential improvements to brain function and even a reduction in fatigue.
That said, while the benefits of creatine are well known, the sheer number of types, forms, and brands on the market can make it difficult to pick out which is most effective or most worth your money.
Many of the people on our team here at Garage Gym Reviews take creatine daily, and in an effort to find the best creatine supplement, we researched more than 50 products and personally tested nearly 40 creatine powders, gummies, and pills. We also consulted with sports science and nutrition researcher, Dr. Krissy Kendall, Ph.D., to analyze the formula and ingredients of each product.
Formula: Is there the clinically-supported dosage of 5 grams of creatine?
Ingredients: Are there additional ingredients, and if so, do they support sports performance?
Solubility: Will this dissolve well in liquid?
Third-party testing: Is the label transparent and accurate?
Our in-depth testing process has resulted in the list below of the best creatine supplements on the market.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Creatine is an amino acid (derived from arginine) that’s found in both animal proteins and within our own muscle cells. It’s used by the body to replenish ATP1 (adenosine triphosphate) stores. ATP is the energy source your body uses for explosive movements, like sprinting and heavy lifting.
In the brain, creatine also acts as an energy source; nascent clinical trials3 show that creatine supplementation may slow cognitive decline in elderly patients with early memory loss.
If you stop taking creatine supplements, your body will simply go back to producing ATP the way it did before supplementation. This may lead to some strength and muscle loss, but it won’t be anything too drastic.
According to Dr. Krissy Kendall, Ph.D., to maximize the benefits of creatine, you need to saturate your body’s stores of creatine, and there are two ways to do this:
Loading protocol: The creatine loading phase involves taking 20 grams of creatine a day, typically divided into four equal doses of 5 grams, for five to seven days. This has been shown to be an effective method to fully saturate your muscle’s creatine stores in one week’s time. Following the loading phase, it’s recommended to drop down to 5 grams of creatine daily to maintain creatine stores.
Low-dose protocol: The alternative method is to simply take 5 grams of creatine every day, without a loading phase. This approach will eventually get your muscle’s creatine stores maximally saturated, it just takes a bit longer—about four weeks compared to one week with a loading protocol.
Both the loading phase and the low-dose maintenance protocol have been shown to produce significant improvements in muscle strength and size when used alongside a resistance training program. However, the low-dose protocol may help reduce potential side effects. According to nutrition expert and exercise physiologist Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD, “Creatine may cause gastrointestinal issues like bloating and belching, but starting with lower doses of 3 to 5 grams daily can help prevent those concerns.”
Our expert product testers, who include certified personal trainers and coaches, use a multi-point testing methodology to determine average ratings out of 5 stars.
Price Per Serving
$1.67
$0.33
$0.31 – $0.33
$1.00 – $1.33
$1.17
$0.82 – $0.83
$1.08
$0.44
$0.92 – $1.17
$0.56
$1.50
$0.37 – $0.50
$1.50
$0.32 – $0.96
$0.46 – $0.60
$0.33
Grams Per Serving
5 g
5 g
5 g
5 g
4 g
4.8 g
2.5 g
5 g
10 g
5 g
5 g
5 g
5 g
5 g
2.5 g
750 mg
Third-party Tested?
—
—
—
—
—
Type
Creatine monohydrate
Creatine monohydrate
Creatine monohydrate
Micronized creatine monohydrate
Creatine Monohydrate
Three types
Creatine monohydrate
Creatine monohydrate
Creatine monohydrate
Creatine monohydrate
Creatine monohydrate
Creatine monohydrate
Creatine monohydrate
Creatine monohydrate
Creatine monohydrate
Creatine HCl
Flavors
Multiple Flavors
Multiple Flavors
Unflavored
Multiple Flavors
Strawberry
Capsules
Unflavored
Unflavored
Multiple Flavors
Unflavored
Multiple Flavors
Unflavored
Lemon & Lime, Orange & Mango
Unflavored
Capsules
Unflavored, Lemon Lime, Fruit Punch
Best Creatine Overall: Transparent Labs Creatine HMB
Good for: Those looking for an all-around premium creatine supplement
Best Creatine Overall
GGR Score:
We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.
Transparent Labs’ Creatine HMB puts a unique twist on the more traditional creatine monohydrate by adding HMB to more effectively build strength, stamina and recovery. It’s available in a dozen different flavors, including an unflavored option; some reviews criticize the taste of some flavors, though, saying that they’re overly sweet.
What our tester says:
“I tried Black Cherry and I wasn’t a huge fan of the taste of this one—it tasted a bit watered down, even with the right amount of water. Some people may prefer this though!”
If you’re looking for creatine to support your strength training goals, like muscle gain—or the best creatine for bulking—Transparent Labs Creatine HMB is a good choice. Each serving contains the recommended 5 grams of creatine monohydrate, which has repeatedly been shown to increase power4, repeated sprinting ability5, maximal strength6, and muscle mass7.
It puts a twist on a traditional creatine supplement because it also contains 1.5 grams of beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) per serving.
“HMB is a metabolite of the amino acid leucine, which helps to prevent the breakdown of muscle protein and can help speed up the recovery process from strenuous exercise,” explains sports nutritionist Dr. Krissy Kendall, Ph.D.
Basically, HMB is anabolic and acts synergistically with creatine to enhance muscle growth8. With research-backed doses, it earns a 5 out of 5 for its formulation.
We gave it a 4 out of 5 for taste, with two of our testers saying they got a “weird” taste from it.
Nicole Davis, GGR head of content and a certified personal trainer, tried Black Cherry and wasn’t a huge fan of the taste. “It tasted a bit watered down, even with the right amount of water,” she says. “Some people may prefer this though! There were floaties after I finished mixing, but it didn’t interfere with the overall drinking of it.”
We also had Amanda Capritto, certified nutrition coach and former GGR senior staff writer, give another flavor a try. “I got the Peach Mango flavor, and there’s something weird about it. The flavor itself is good and strong enough, but I think the BioPerine, which is a derivative of black pepper, is altering the taste,” she explains. “When you smell it, it smells spicy in a weird way. It’s kind of off-putting. When mixed, it tastes a bit bitter unless mixed with more than the recommended amount of water.”
Both testers also scored this a 3.5 out of 5 when it came to solubility. “I got chunks and it settles if you don’t drink it all in one go,” Amanda says.
There are 13 flavors of Creatine HMB available—Sour Grape, Peach Mango, Fruit Punch, Watermelon, Black Cherry, Blue Raspberry, Orange, Tropical Punch, Hawaiian Splash, Cherry Kiwi, Blueberry Pomegranate, Sour Grape, and Strawberry Lemonade—plus an unflavored option if you just want to stick to the basics. Know, too, that there are no artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives in any flavor of this supplement either.
At $0.33 per serving, this creatine will save you some serious moolah
Athletes
Third-party testing means it’s safe for those who may be subject to drug testing
Flavor Lovers
With 5 flavors currently offered and the lineup changing frequently, you’ll never get bored of the same old taste
Pros
Subscribe and save 10% and free shipping
Non-GMO and gluten-free
Third-party tested
Affordable
5 g of creatine monohydrate per serving
Cons
Flavored versions contain sucralose which may cause stomach upset
Mixed reviews on mixability not dissolving entirely
Mixed reviews on some flavors, saying sweetener was overpowering
Price per serving
$0.33 per serving, or less with a subscription
Flavors
Unflavored, Blue Raspberry, Fruit Punch, Watermelon, Pineapple Mango
Total Servings
100
Key Ingredients
Creatine monohydrate
Nutricost Creatine Powder contains 5 grams of creatine per serving and is available in both flavored and unflavored varieties. Nutricost shares that their creatine supplement can help with muscle building and strength, injury prevention, and cognitive and bone health. There are mixed reviews on the taste of certain flavors, saying that the sweetener used was too much.
What our tester says:
“Creatine is one of the more affordable sports nutrition supplements, but this is impressively affordable even with that expectation.”
Our best budget creatine supplement goes to Nutricost Micronized Creatine Monohydrate simply because it’s one of the least expensive creatine supplements on the market. Former GGR editor Frieda Johnson, CNC, notes, “Creatine is one of the more affordable sports nutrition supplements, but this is impressively affordable even with that expectation.” At about $0.33 per serving, this is one of the best deals available, earning it a 5 out of 5 for price per serving.
All you’re getting with this supplement is pure creatine monohydrate—5 grams each serving to be exact. Because of that, don’t expect any fancy flavors or sweeteners; Nutricost creatine can come simply unflavored (a couple flavors are available). Still, it scores high on taste at a 4.5 out of 5, with Frieda remarking that it really is unflavored. “I added it to water and couldn’t tell the difference,” she says.
The solubility is what you’d expect from most creatine; it swirls around in water while stirring and then settles once the stirring stops. Frieda rates the solubility a middle-of-the-road 3 out of 5.
Creatine monohydrate is the most researched form of creatine, with over 500 peer-reviewed publications devoted to the potential benefits of this supplement. Better yet, Nutricost claims to have their supplements third-party tested, although they don’t disclose who from. Just to be sure, athletes should only stick to Informed Choice or Sport and NSF-Certified for Sport certifications to be sure their supplements are free from banned substances.
$0.31 or $0.33 per serving, depending on the size of container
Key Ingredients
Micronized creatine monohydrate
Third-Party Testing
Informed Sport
Budget Shoppers
At $0.33 per serving or less, this creatine will save you some serious moolah
Athletes
Third-party testing means it’s safe for those who may be subject to drug testing
Pros
Affordable
Subscribe and save options
Non-GMO and gluten-free
Third-party tested and certified
Research-backed dose of creatine
Cons
No flavor options
Some reviews say it doesn’t mix or dissolve well
Price per serving
$0.31 or $0.33 per serving, depending on the size of container
Flavors
Unflavored
Total Servings
60 or 100
Key Ingredients
Micronized creatine monohydrate
Our testers love Sports Research Creatine Monohydrate because it’s less than 50 cents per serving, is truly tasteless, and is third party-certified so athletes can take it knowing there’s no junk inside.
What our tester says:
“I mixed this with water, and if I hadn’t poured the powder in myself I wouldn’t have been able to tell there was anything in the shaker bottle. It’s that flavorless.”
Creatine is often brought up during discussions of bulking and muscle gain, but a 2019 meta-analysis10 found its just as effective in helping people who are already doing resistance training to lose weight. We like Sports Research for people who are on a weight loss journey because it only has one ingredient and is backed by third-party organizations that have tested it for heavy metals and banned substances.
Studies11 also show that a 5-gram dose of creatine monohydrate, which is exactly what you’ll find in Sports Research creatine, can help slow down the loss of muscle mass in adults. Because it contains the clinically-recommended dose and has no additives, we’re giving it a 5 out of 5 on formulation. This is great for those who are concerned with weight loss and muscle preservation. We could call this product best creatine for bodybuilders, too, just for that reason.
It was hard to find a downside for this product, but if we had to pick one, it’s that there are no flavored options. On the bright side, the unflavored creatine powder makes it easy to mix with your electrolytes, pre-workout, and other supplements. “I mixed this with water, and if I hadn’t poured the powder in myself I wouldn’t have been able to tell there was anything in the shaker bottle,” says Anthony O’Reilly, a certified personal trainer and GGR performance editor. “It mixes so easily.”
He adds there’s no aftertaste, so we’re giving it a 5 out of 5 on taste (we know, that sounds weird for an unflavored supplement). “There’s no taste to this,” he adds. “Unflavored supplements usually have a little aftertaste, but this just tastes like water when I mix it with water.”
At under 50 cents per serving, and even cheaper if you put it on a subscription, this creatine supplement gets a 5 out of 5 on pricing.
Price
$0.31 or $0.33 per serving/$19.95 or $30.95 per container
$1.00 or $1.33 per serving, depending on the size of the container
Key Ingredients
Micronized creatine monohydrate, L-carnitine L-tartrate, corosolic acid, Stevia leaf extract, calcium silicate, citric acid, and red beet powder
Third-Party Testing
Labdoor
Natural Shoppers
This formula is naturally sweetened and flavored, with no added sugars
Athletes
Third-party testing means it’s safe for those who may be subject to drug testing
Flavor Lovers
With 6 flavors currently offered and the lineup changing frequently, you’ll never get bored of the same old taste
Pros
Money-back guarantee
Great customer service
Can view actual third-party lab results
All natural
Subscribe and save 10%
No added sugar
Cons
Stevia flavor is too sweet for some
Unflavored is actually sweetened
Price per serving
$1.00 or $1.33 per serving, depending on the size of the container
Flavors
Sour Candy, Fruit Punch, Unflavored, Strawberry Lemonade, Watermelon, Arctic Blast
Total Servings
30 or 60
Key Ingredients
Micronized creatine monohydrate, L-carnitine L-tartrate, corosolic acid, Stevia leaf extract, calcium silicate, citric acid, and red beet powder
If you’re looking for an all-natural post-workout supplement that is made of research-backed ingredients, Recharge post-workout supplement is one worth considering. Its taste and positive impact on performance is appreciated by the vast majority of users.
What our tester says:
“I tried Strawberry Lemonade, and it was pretty sweet but also had a good tart flavor; I liked it a lot, plus it dissolves well.”
We all know whey protein powders or the best protein shakes are the go-to post-workout drink, but we like Legion Recharge as a post-workout drink because you’re getting a few research-backed ingredients that will help with muscle recovery and repair. Plus, it’s one of the tastiest and most soluble creatine powders we’ve tested, receiving perfect scores in both categories.
“Pretty sweet but also pretty tart,” Nicole says of the Strawberry Lemonade flavor of Recharge, rating the taste a 5 out of 5. She noted it dissolved perfectly with absolutely no sediment at the bottom of her shaker glass, rating it another 5 out of 5 on solubility.
Beyond the 5-gram dose of micronized creatine, you’re also getting 2.1 grams of L-carnitine L-tartrate, which sports nutritionist Dr. Krissy Kendall, Ph.D., says has been shown to combat muscle soreness and improve muscle repair. The formulation earns a strong 5 out of 5.
Additionally, 10.5 milligrams of corosolic acid is there to enhance post-workout nutrient absorption.
Available in an unflavored variety and six flavors—Blue Raspberry, Fruit Punch, Grape, Strawberry Kiwi, Strawberry Lemonade, and Watermelon—Recharge has zero added sugar and no artificial food dyes or fillers, plus it’s naturally sweetened with Stevia.
It’s also third-party tested so you know exactly what you’re getting. The testing is through Labdoor, which isn’t a major third-party certification, but Legion still gets a 4 out of 5 for its transparency and third-party testing. For the flavor and transparency, Nicole adds, “I liked it so much that I ordered another tub after finishing testing my first container.”
Our full Legion Recharge review has thoughts from multiple certified personal trainers and nutrition coaches who tested this post-workout supplement. (Also, check out our Legion Athletics coupon code page to see the latest ways you can save on this brand!)
Price
$1.00 or $1.33 per serving/$39.99 or $59.99 per container
Servings per container
30 or 60
Form
Powder
Dose
1 scoop (8.91 g)
Type of creatine
Creatine monohydrate
Ingredients
Micronized creatine monohydrate, L-carnitine L-tartrate, corosolic acid, Stevia leaf extract, calcium silicate, citric acid, and red beet powder
Flavors
Blue Raspberry, Fruit Punch, Grape, Strawberry Kiwi, Strawberry Lemonade, and Watermelon, Unflavored
Swoly’s creatine gummies are a delicious way to take your creatine daily, especially if you don’t care for the powdered form. You’ll need five of these to reach a serving, and a serving is only 4 grams of creatine (not the research-backed dose of 5 grams that we like to see), but they taste great nonetheless.
What our tester says:
“These are friggin’ delicious. Like, need-to-make-sure-my-child-doesn’t-find-these-or-she-will-eat-them-all kind of delicious!”
If you’d rather take your creatine in gummy form, look no further than Swoly creatine gummies. We tested a few of the best creatine gummies on the market, and Swoly in particular had our testers in shock with how great they are!
You’ll have to take five gummies to get 4 grams of creatine—slightly lower than the 5-gram dose we like to see—but Kate Meier, GGR senior director of content, said she’d happily eat 50 of these in one sitting, giving them a perfect 5 out of 5 score for taste.
“These are friggin’ delicious. Like, need-to-make-sure-my-child-doesn’t-find-these-or-she-will-eat-them-all kind of delicious! They remind me of the BEST fruit snacks ever (Annie’s Homegrown Organic).”
Although the servings size is five gummies, Kate says it doesn’t feel like a daunting task, unlike some other creatine gummies we’ve tested and tried. “Super easy to eat. I’d happily eat these every day,” she adds, rating the swallowability a 5 out of 5.
Other reviewers echo Kate’s sentiment, saying Swoly’s creatine gummy bears make taking creatine much easier for them and that there’s no weird taste or texture. Be aware, though, that there are 15 calories in a five-gummy serving as well as 2.5 grams of sugar. It still earns a solid 4 out of 5 for its formulation, providing a research-backed dosage of creatine in each serving.
At over a $1 per serving, this is more expensive than your typical creatine powder, but it’s right in line with other creatine gummies (even a little cheaper than some options). Check out our in-depth Swoly Creatine Gummies review for our full thoughts on these yummy creatine snacks.
Crazy Muscle Three-Atine is an affordable and easy to take supplement with a research-backed dose of one of the most effective muscle-building ingredients, creatine monohydrate.
What our tester says:
“These definitely help prevent any muscle or strength losses while I’m on vacation. I’m going to keep this in my travel bag at all times.”
Certified nutrition coach and personal trainer Anthony O’Reilly used Crazy Muscle Three-Atine during a two-week trip in Ireland, and he felt the creatine pills helped him maintain his muscle mass even when he wasn’t training as often as he does at home. “These definitely help prevent any muscle or strength losses while I’m on vacation,” he says. “I’m going to keep this in my travel bag at all times,” he says.
Crazy Muscle Three-Atine contains three types of creatine. We’ll get to the other two forms of creatine in a second—the main star here is the 4.8 grams of creatine monohydrate. Studies have shown this type of creatine, along with progressive overload, can help increase muscle mass7.
Now, does three types of creatine have any more impact than just one? Not necessarily, says registered dietitian Bob Iafelice. “Monohydrate is clearly the best creatine,” he says. “No need for the other unproven forms.” Plus, he adds, the other two are present in low doses that aren’t likely to have much added benefit.
Still, we’ll rate the formulation a 5 out of 5 due to the research-backed amount of creatine monohydrate and the fact that there are no artificial ingredients in it.
These are capsules, which some people may have trouble with, but Anthony says the swallowability is a 4 out of 5. Each capsule is about as long as a quarter is wide and you can easily split your daily dose into two or three parts if needed. The pills are also flavorless, so Anthony rates the taste (or lack of) a 5 out of 5.
“I like that you can take these with you wherever,” Anthony says. “It’s a lot less messy than a powdered creatine.”
Price
$0.82 or $0.83 per serving/$24.98 or $48.99 per container
Blonyx HMB+ Creatine is a creatine supplement with added calcium and HMB, which have been shown in studies to improve creatine’s effectiveness. While the single serving by itself is a bit underdosed, taking the serving twice a day as recommended will ensure you get 5 grams of creatine monohydrate and 3 grams of HMB, both research-backed and effective daily doses.
What our tester says:
“The HMB definitely gave it a tart bitterness that made me want to mix it with a sports drink or juice instead of just water. I wouldn’t notice any odd taste with a sports drink though.”
Athletes need to take special care with supplementation that no WADA-banned substances are present, as it could disqualify them from competing. That’s why we like Blonyx HMB+ Creatine—it’s tested for banned substances with transparent lab results posted on their website. Additionally, they manufacture their products in partnership with Brand Nutra, a NSF for Sport-registered facility. It earns a 5 out of 5 for third-party testing.
Team USA athlete and Olympian Caine Wilkes, CNC, USAW-L1, tested out Blonyx’s creatine and gave it high marks for taste and solubility. HMB+ Creatine is unflavored, although Caine notes there is a bitterness to the flavor. He rates the taste a 4 out of 5, saying, “It was probably the HMB that added some bitterness to the flavor with just water. I never noticed any aftertaste when I mixed it with a sports drink or juice, though.”
Solubility-wise, the creatine gets a 5 out of 5. Caine adds that it mixes almost completely after about 20 seconds in a shaker bottle, with no clumping either.
Dietitian Destini Moody, RD, CSSD, LD, likes the addition of calcium and HMB, as she notes, “Some research12 shows that calcium and creatine can work together to support bone health and produce more efficient muscle contractions.” HMB has also been shown to support hypertrophy and enhance muscle growth when taken with creatine8.
Destini’s main callout (as well as Caine’s) is that the serving size has only half of the recommended doses for both creatine and HMB. Instead Blonyx recommends taking a serving twice daily to get 5 grams of creatine and 3 grams of HMB each day.
“Breaking up your creatine dose is neither an efficient or necessary way to supplement with creatine,” adds Destini. “It also sets many people up to forget their second dose later in the day, making their first dose useless.” She rates the formulation a 2 out of 5.
Caine had the exact issue that Destini warns of, forgetting his second dose throughout the day. “Eventually, I just started taking two scoops at once, which was fine as long as it wasn’t on an empty stomach,” he recalls.
Keep in mind that a container’s 60 servings are for a 30-day supply, effectively making the cost per day over $2—one of the pricier creatine supplements on this list. Still, for the added benefit of HMB and third-party testing, this may be worth the price for athletes.
Powdered creatine monohydrate supplement available in stick packs or a tub
Price Per Serving
$0.45 per serving, or less with a subscription
Key Ingredients
Creatine monohydrate
Third-Party Testing
Yes
Quality Shoppers
Jocko creatine is third-aprty tested and free from fillers and unnecessary ingredients
Athletes
Third-party testing means it’s safe for those who may be subject to drug testing
Budget Shoppers
At $0.45 per serving, this creatine will save you some serious money
Pros
Budget-friendly at $0.45/serving
Third-party tested
Research-backed dose of creatine
Subscribe-and-save options
Cons
No flavor options
Some reviewers had issues with the scoop itself
Price per serving
$0.45 per serving, or less with a subscription
Creatine Content
5 g per serving
Total Servings
30 single-serve sticks or a 90-serving tub
Key Ingredients
Creatine monohydrate
Jocko Creatine is as simple as they come with a clinically-effective dose of 5 grams of creatine monohydrate (and that’s it.) Those who just want creatine or wish to mix their creatine with other supplements will appreciate the uncomplicated formula and 90 servings per container.
What our tester says:
“It dissolves completely with just a few shakes and after about 30 seconds.”
Jocko Fuel is the brainchild of John “Jocko” Willink, a retired Navy SEAL, podcaster, and author whose goal with this brand was to create simplified nutritional supplements using the best raw ingredients. So, when picking the best creatine monohydrate, we had to go with Jocko Creatine, as its only ingredient is 5 grams of clinically-dosed creatine monohydrate—aka the most well-studied type of creatine. It gets a solid 5 out of 5 for its simple yet effective formulation.
Kate Meier, a GGR editorial team member and a weightlifting coach, tried Jocko Creatine and gave it high marks for its simple formula and excellent value. Kate gave it a 4.5 out of 5 for flavor, marking it down half a point as this unflavored creatine powder still had a lingering taste when mixed with water. She adds, “It’s not unpleasant, just a powdery taste that you notice. I’ve had it in protein shakes and electrolytes, though, and you can’t detect it then.”
As for solubility, she gave the powder a perfect score of 5 out of 5, saying, “It dissolves completely with just a few shakes and after about 30 seconds.”
Further, customer reviews are overwhelmingly positive on both the Jocko website and Amazon, with ingredient quality, value, and mixability praised among users. Additionally, each container comes with 90 servings, making it a bargain at $0.45 per serving.
If you’re looking for a post-workout drink that tastes good and is designed to promote muscle growth and recovery, Growth Surge could be a good option.
What our tester says:
“The solubility of this one isn’t great, but I tried Cherry Limeade and liked the flavor. I thought there was an aftertaste, though—not horrible, but noticeable.”
If you’re looking for more of a post-workout cocktail, consider Jacked Factory Growth Surge. Not only is there a variety of flavor options in this line for those who don’t want to choke down unflavored powder, but according to Dr. Krissy Kendall, Ph.D., a sports nutritionist, Growth Surge contains three key ingredients to support muscle growth and recovery.
“The solubility of this one isn’t great,” says Nicole Davis, GGR head of content and our expert product tester, giving it a 3 out of 5 in that category.
Nicole does appreciate the flavor, however. “I tried Cherry Limeade and liked the flavor. I thought there was an aftertaste, though—not horrible, but super noticeable,” Nicole adds, still rating the taste a 5 out of 5.
There are 3 grams of creatine monohydrate, so it gets a 3.5 out of 5 for formulation, since the creatine is a little on the lower end—although it’s still in the recommended range. The lower dosage may not be ideal for athletes or larger gym-goers, however.
Each serving also contains 2.5 grams of betaine anhydrous. “Similar to creatine, betaine promotes cell hydration and resilience to stressors,” Dr. Kendall explains. “It may also lead to increases in workout volume and enhance endurance. In a 2021 study13, two weeks of betaine supplementation improved upper- and lower-body muscle endurance in young athletes.”
You’ll also find 2 grams of L-carnitine L-tartrate per serving of Growth Surge, which can help fight muscle soreness post-exercise. Dr. Caehla McGeady, M.D., says, “Of note, L-carnitine L- tartrate can have some unfavorable side effects, including stomach upset, diarrhea and heartburn. It is also not appropriate for people with seizure disorders, as it lowers the seizure threshold14. This means if you have ever had a seizure before, you should avoid L-carnitine L-tartrate.”
This post-workout supplement is available in 10 great-tasting flavors—Cherry Limeade, Blue Raspberry, Fruit Punch, Blueberry Lemonade, Swoleberry, Watermelon, Black Cherry, Sour Peach Rings, Strawberry Lemonade, and Unflavored—and costs $1.33 per serving. Just keep in mind, you’ll only be getting 3 grams of creatine in one serving, so you may need to consider more supplementation to follow recommendations on dosage for maximal benefits.
Creavitalis creatine is a micronized creatine monohydrate powder made for optimal absorption
Athletes
Third-party testing means it’s safe for those who may be subject to drug testing
Budget Shoppers
With a subscription, this creatine powder can cost under $0.40 per serving
Pros
Money-back guarantee
Research-based dose of creatine monohydrate
Affordable
Free of common allergens
Subscribe and save 30%
Cons
No flavor options
Testers note an aftertaste
Price per serving
$0.56 per serving, or less with a subscription
Creatine Content
5 g per serving
Total Servings
90
Key Ingredients
Creavitalis creatine monohydrate
ProHealth Longevity Creatine is an allergen-free and affordable creatine supplement that costs less than 60 cents per serving.
What our tester says:
“My wife mentioned she noticed a metallic aftertaste when she mixed it with water, but with a sports drink I didn’t notice it.”
ProHealth Longevity Creatine is free of all common allergens and animal products such as eggs, dairy, and fish. That’s because the only ingredient is creatine monohydrate, making it a perfect choice for those living a vegan lifestyle or anyone who wants minimal ingredients in their supplements.
Because it has 5 grams of creatine monohydrate and no additional ingredients, it gets a 5 out of 5 on formulation. “An excellent product,” says registered dietitian Bob Iafelice. “I would recommend.”
You don’t have to be plant-based to enjoy this creatine. Caine Wilkes, a GGR senior staff writer who placed 9th in Olympic weightlifting at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, says, “it’s a good creatine powder and does its job.”
His one major complaint was with the taste. It’s an unflavored creatine, but according to Caine there’s a slight “chemical” aftertaste. “My wife mentioned she noticed a metallic aftertaste,” he adds. “With a sports drink, I didn’t notice it though.” He gave the taste a 4 out of 5.
He adds that it mixes better than other creatines he’s used, but that it will settle if you leave it for a few minutes. “If you had this immediately after mixing, it’d be great,” Caine says, rating it a 5 out of 5 for solubility.
As an Olympian, Caine looks for products that are third-party tested to ensure they’re free of banned substances that might show up on a drug test. While ProHealth products are tested by an independent lab, it’s not done by a major organization such as NSF or Informed Sport, so we’re giving it a 3 out of 5 for that category. “Since I’m an athlete, I try to stick to those athlete-specific certifications,” Caine says. “That said, I’d probably use it again.”
With 6 flavors currently offered and the lineup changing frequently, you’ll never get bored of the same old taste
Caffeine Lovers
With 400 mg of caffeine in a full serving of Gorilla Mode, you’ll have plenty of energy for your upcoming workout
Pros
Research-backed ingredients
Multiple flavors
Subscribe-and-save options
Cons
Pricier pre-workout
Contain stimulants
Mixed reviews on taste, mostly that it’s overly sweet
Price per serving
$1.50 per serving, or less with a subscription
Flavors
Bombsicle, Blue Raspberry, Cherry Blackout, Volcano Burst, Watermelon, White Gummy Bear
Total Servings
40
Key Ingredients
Creatine monohydrate, caffeine, L-citrulline
While Gorilla Mode receives mixed reviews, it is formulated with all the key ingredients you want in a pre-workout drink to improve performance in the gym. However, if you are sensitive or want to avoid stimulants, this may not be the supplement for you.
What our tester says:
“I took this 15 minutes before my workout and two hours later, I still have a pump. I felt calm but energetic throughout my workout. There’s no tingling though, since there’s no beta-alanine.”
If you’re looking for a pre-workout with creatine, our favorite is Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout, simply due to the potency of ingredients. As far as creatine goes, a maximum two-scoop serving provides 5 grams of creatine—but only 2.5 grams of creatine in one scoop.
Whether you want one or two scoops is up to you, since Gorilla Mode also contains 200 milligrams of caffeine in each scoop, too. Caffeine-sensitive users may want to avoid two scoops. With 5 grams of L-citrulline in one scoop and other effective ingredients like L-tyrosine and betaine anhydrous, you’ll get plenty of benefits for your pre-workout pump. As a pre-workout, we rate its formulation a 4 out of 5.
Jacob Penner, a USA Weightlifting coach and part of the GGR expert panel, tried out Gorilla Mode and almost immediately felt the effects. “I took this 15 minutes before my workout,” he says, “and two hours later, I still have a pump. I felt calm but energetic throughout my workout. I also felt warm. There’s no tingling though, since there’s no beta-alanine.” He rates the effects a 4.5 out of 5.
“The taste isn’t the selling point here,” Jacob adds. He tried Bombsicle, and it tasted sweet, “like all three flavors of a Rocket Pop combined,” he says, rating the taste a 3.5 out of 5. If you like sweet, this might be your jam, but otherwise, know that the effects of the pre-workout are the reason to take this supplement.
As a quick note, the pre-workout isn’t third-party tested, although it is transparent in its ingredients. Glycerol is included as well, which is prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency, so athletes beware. Check out our Gorilla Mode Pre-Workout review for our full thoughts.
Price
$1.50 per serving/$59.99 per container
Servings per container
40
Form
Powder
Dose
1 scoop (20.1 g)
Type of creatine
Creatine monohydrate
Key ingredients
Creatine monohydrate, caffeine, L-citrulline
Flavors
Tigers Blood, Bombsicle, Cherry Blackout, Fruit Punch, Cotton Candy Grape, Blackberry Lemonade, Orange Rush, Jungle Juice, Strawberry Kiwi, Volcano Burst, Watermelon, and White Gummy Bear
$0.37-$0.50 per serving, depending on the size of the container
Key Ingredients
Creatine monohydrate
Third-Party Testing
Informed Choice
Athletes
Third-party testing means it’s safe for those who may be subject to drug testing
Budget Shoppers
At $0.50 per serving or less in bulk options, this creatine will save you some serious money
Pros
Affordable
Third-party tested
5 g per scoop
Subscribe-and-save options
Multiple size options
Cons
No flavor options
Some customers say it’s hard to mix
Price per serving
$0.37-$0.50 per serving, depending on the size of the container
Creatine Content
5 g per serving
Total Servings
30, 85, or 200
Key Ingredients
Creatine monohydrate
Jacked Factory Creatine Monohydrate contains a large dose of a proven muscle-building supplement at an affordable price.
What our tester says:
“I couldn’t detect the powder at all when I mixed it with water, other than a very small bit of sediment that settled at the bottom of my glass.”
Most studies show you need up to 5 grams of creatine monohydrate per day to achieve peak muscle-building effects, which is exactly what you get with Jacked Factory Creatine Monohydrate. In fact, that’s the only ingredient you’ll find in this supplement, which is why we rated its formulation a perfect 5 out of 5. We also gave this a perfect 5-out-of-5 score for its price point, as it clocks in at just 50 cents or less per serving.
While flavored creatine does have its perks, we like this unflavored powder because of its versatility—you can mix it into any drink of your choosing, and it won’t alter the taste. Score!
GGR’s senior director of content, Kate Meier, tested this creatine by drinking it with water and also by mixing it into her pre-workout. She gave the product a 5 out of 5 for taste (well, for a lack of taste).
“My water just tasted like water,” she says. “I couldn’t detect the powder at all, other than a very small bit of sediment that settled at the bottom of my glass. But that’s because I mixed it with a spoon. If you’re putting this in a blender or using a shaker bottle, like I did with my pre-workout, you can’t tell the powder is in there at all.”
As for solubility, she rates it a 4 out of 5, saying, “There’s just a little bit of sediment at the bottom of my glass over time. If you have your creatine drink quick, it shouldn’t be a problem.”
Jacked Factory typically doesn’t use third-party testing on their supplements, but athletes can rejoice for this creatine monohydrate, which is now Informed Choice certified and tested for banned substances.
Creatine monohydrate, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, juice powder blend, flavoring, sucralose, and others
Third-Party Testing
No
Fruity Flavor Lovers
With citrus flavors in their lineup, Crazy Nutrition CRN-5 will be just right for people who love a little sweet with a little tart
Serious Lifters
With a research-backed dosed of 5 g of creatine per serving, lifters will see optimal results in muscle strength and recovery
Pros
5 types of creatine present
Contains electrolytes
Comes in 2 flavors
Subscribe-and-save options
Cons
More expensive than other creatine supplements
Contains artificial ingredients
Not third-party tested
Price per serving
$1.50 per serving, or less with a subscription
Flavors
Lemon and Lime, Orange and Mango
Total Servings
30
Key Ingredients
Creatine monohydrate, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, juice powder blend, flavoring, sucralose, and others
Crazy Nutrition Ultimate CRN-5 is a decent option for people looking for a flavored creatine with added electrolytes. It provides the recommended dose of creatine.
What our tester says:
“It”s pretty good! A little tangy, but not too sweet and not too sour. I like lemon-lime things, so this is something I would drink for sure.”
Although people of all genders can take the same creatine supplement, we think Crazy Nutrition CRN-5 is the best creatine for men (and anyone else) who are focused on gaining strength because it has the clinically-recommended 5-gram dose of creatine monohydrate and is loaded with other ingredients that can help with weightlifting and recovery.
We particularly like the inclusion of HCL, because it could help reduce bloating while you bulk. According to Dr. Krissy Kendall, Ph.D., a sports nutritionist, HCL doesn’t require a loading phase, either.
Additionally, there are 56 milligrams of magnesium, 1,250 milligrams of sodium, and 300 milligrams of potassium. Electrolytes are essential for athletic performance and recovery, two important aspects of bulking. As Registered Dietitian Sydney Lappe, puts it, “Electrolytes are absolutely essential for life as we know it.” It gets a 5 out of 5 on formulation.
Dr. Caehla McGeady notes one thing to watch for, however: “Importantly, potassium supplementation is not safe in patients with underlying heart and kidney conditions,” she says. “Too much potassium can cause abnormal and potentially dangerous heart rhythms, as well as confusion and difficulty breathing.”
Kate Meier, competitive weightlifter and senior director of content at Garage Gym Reviews, tested CRN-5. She gave the Lemon & Lime flavor a 4 out of 5 for its taste. “Pretty good! A little tangy, but not too sweet or sour,” she says. “I like lemon-lime things, so this is something I would drink for sure.”
As far as solubility, Kate notes that when she stirred it in a glass with a spoon, it didn’t fully dissolve and she could see the granules, so she gave it a 4 out of 5 on that front. However, Kate says, “I couldn’t detect any graininess while drinking it. Mixing it with a shaker cup and a metal ball broke up the chunks just fine, too.”
There are two significant callouts we have on this product. The first is that it isn’t third-party tested, from what we can tell. Also, at $1.50 per serving, it’s one of the most expensive creatine products on our list.
$0.32 or $0.96 per serving, depending on the size of the container
Key Ingredients
Micronized creatine monohydrate
Third-Party Testing
NSF-Certified for Sport
Natural Shoppers
This creatine powder contains no artificial ingredients at all, only using natural, non-GMO ingredients
Athletes
Third-party testing means it’s safe for those who may be subject to drug testing
Budget Shoppers
This creatine powder can cost under $0.40 per serving with the bulk 180-serving bag
Pros
90-day guarantee policy
Under $1 per serving
Subscribe and save 10%
Free of common allergens
Third-party tested
Cons
No flavor options
Some customers have issues sealing the bag
Price per serving
$0.32 or $0.96 per serving, depending on the size of the container
Creatine Content
5 g per serving
Total Servings
30 or 180
Key Ingredients
Micronized creatine monohydrate
Promix Micronized Creatine offers a non-GMO creatine monohydrate. It’s unflavored and can be mixed with pre-workout or protein powders. The website doesn’t show the third-party lab, but it does show up as an NSF-Certified for Sport product on the NSF website.
What our tester says:
“I took this on an empty stomach and didn’t notice any negative side effects. It’s consistent with other creatines I’ve taken, and helps me last a hair longer on my strength workouts.”
Women looking for a creatine supplement that won’t cause bloating or other digestive issues should turn to Promix Creatine Monohydrate, which is easy to digest and free of all common allergens. They accomplish this by only having one ingredient: creatine.
“I took this on an empty stomach and didn’t notice any negative side effects,” says Caine Wilkes, a member of the 2020 United States Olympic weightlifting team. “It’s consistent with other creatines I’ve taken, and helps me last a hair longer on my strength workouts.”
There are 5 grams of creatine monohydrate per serving, earning it a 5 out of 5 on formulation, and you can choose between a 30- or 180-serving bag. At $0.96 per serving, the 30-serving bag gets a 3.5 out of 5 on pricing and the 180-serving bag gets a 5 out of 5 for being $0.32 per scoop.
We gave it a 4 out of 5 on solubility because two of our testers noticed leftover residue at the bottom of their glass. “It mixes really well with a spoon,” says certified personal trainer Matt Dustin.
It’s also only available as an unflavored supplement, and it lives up to its name for the most part. “I notice a very slight bitter taste in plain water, but it disappears completely in a protein shake,” says Matt, who gave the taste a 4 out of 5.
Price
$0.32 or $0.96 per serving/$29 or $59 per container
$0.46-$0.60 per serving, depending on the size of the container
Key Ingredients
Creatine monohydrate, gelatin, magnesium stearate
Third-Party Testing
Yes
Athletes
Third-party testing means it’s safe for those who may be subject to drug testing
Pills Over Powders
If you can swallow capsules easily, the pill form of this creatine might be more convenient to take than powder form
Pros
Capsule form can be more convenient
High-quality creatine monohydrate
Multiple size options
Affordable
Free shipping on orders over $75
Cons
Must take 4 pills for 5-g dose
More expensive than some powder forms
Can’t return an open product
Price per serving
$0.46-$0.60 per serving, depending on the size of the container
Serving Size
2 capsules
Total Servings
100, 200, or 300
Key Ingredients
Creatine monohydrate, gelatin, magnesium stearate
If you prefer capsules over powder, the Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine Capsules provide the same dosage and affect on performance as seen in the traditional powder supplement.
What our tester says:
“This is rated high because it’s third-party tested, the serving size is affordable, and taste and solubility aren’t an issue.”
If mixing creatine powder in a liquid doesn’t sound appealing to you, don’t fret—there are quite a few creatine capsules available on the market. We like Optimum Nutrition creatine because the brand is widely respected and the reviews are overwhelmingly positive.
Creatine in capsule form tends to be much easier to transport, if you want to take your supps on the go with you during the day, and you don’t have to worry about mixing or measuring. Plus, you won’t have to deal with any flavors (or aftertaste) you don’t like. It earns a 5 out of 5 on taste for being flavorless, as well as a 5 out of 5 for its swallowability, which is only two capsules.
Kate Meier, GGR senior director of content and competitive weightlifter, tested out the ON capsules, giving it an overall rating of 4.2 stars out of 5. “This is rated high because it’s third-party tested, the serving size is affordable, and taste and solubility aren’t an issue,” she says.
“However, you have to take four pills to get 5 grams of creatine,” she goes on. ON defines a serving size as 2.5 grams on the bottle, which is shy of the recommended 5-gram dosage, earning it a 3 out of 5 for its formulation. So if you consider 5 grams a serving, you actually only get 25 servings per bottle, which takes the price to over $1 a serving.
This formula contains natural flavors and sweeteners
Athletes
Third-party testing means it’s safe for those who may be subject to drug testing
Pros
Only patented form of creatine HCl
Clean formula
Third-party tested
Subscribe-and-save options
Mixes well and tastes good
Helps avoid stomach issues
Cons
Underdosed serving of creatine
Expensive if you’re taking a recommended daily dose of creatine
Price per serving
$0.33 per serving, or less with a subscription
Flavors
Fruit Punch, Lemon Lime, Unflavored, or Veggie Capsules
Total Servings
75
Key Ingredients
Creatine HCl
If you’re looking for a pure creatine HCL and are willing to pay for high quality, Kaged Creatine HCl may be for you.
What our tester says:
“I tried the Lemon Lime flavor and really liked it—it was tart and not too sweet. It also completely dissolved, so for solubility it gets an A+ from me.”
According to Dr. Kendall, benefits of HCL include that it’s super soluble and easy to mix in any liquid, it doesn’t require a loading phase and can help you combat gastrointestinal disturbances, like occasional gas, cramping, and bloating, and temporary weight gain from water retention, which may occur with creatine use.
This is great for those who are concerned with weight loss and muscle preservation. We could call this product the best creatine for bodybuilders, too, just for that reason.
It’s available in powder form in unflavored, Fruit Punch, and Lemon Lime, as well as a capsule form. Nicole Davis, GGR head of content and a certified personal trainer, rates the taste a 5 out of 5, saying, “I tried the Lemon Lime flavor and really liked it—it was tart and not too sweet.”
Solubility also gets top marks with a 5 out of 5, as Nicole mentions, “It completely dissolved, so for solubility it gets an A+.”
At 750 milligrams of creatine HCl per serving, it’s severely underdosed, earning just a 1 out of 5 for its formulation. And although it only costs $0.33 per serving, the instructions recommend you take 4 servings per day—this means one container wouldn’t even last you three weeks.
Each batch is also certified by Informed Sport, meaning it’s tested for banned substances (on the WADA banned list). Read our Kaged Creatine HCl review for an in-depth look at this creatine supplement.
We’ve tested dozens of other creatines to come up with this list, and some we’ve used just in our lives, as fitness enthusiasts ourselves. However, not every creatine can make our list, so here are some honorable mentions:
Muscle Feast Creapure Creatine: This is a type of branded creatine monohydrate produced in Germany and distributed by a handful of partners including Proteinfactory and BPN. It is touted to be high-quality, but there seemingly isn’t anything special about this product versus another micronized creatine monohydrate.
Cellucor Cor-Performance Creatine Monohydrate: Another micronized creatine monohydrate powder at an affordable price point of less than 50 cents per serving. We’d call this a solid runner-up for sure. (We also love Cellucor’s C4 pre-workout, and even have a special coupon code for GGR readers.)
Ghost Creatine: Ghost Creatine contains 5 grams of a branded type of creatine monohydrate and contains other ingredients proven to increase muscle size and strength, but at $1.50 per serving there are more price-effective options on this list. Read more in our Ghost creatine review.
RedCon1 Tango Creatine: RedCon1 is one of the most well-known sports nutrition brands, and while certified personal trainer Anthony O’Reilly enjoyed the effects it is pricier than most of the options on this list. Read our RedCon1 Tango Creatine review for our unfiltered thoughts.
We narrowed down our list of the best creatine products with our GGR supplement testing methodology. We personally tested nearly 40 products to evaluate them on factors such as the ones below.
Formulation and Serving Size
Does the product contain strictly creatine, and how much? If there are other ingredients present, are they research-backed and included with a purpose?
The ideal dosage of creatine is 3 to 5 grams per day11—how many servings do you need to hit this?
We also took into account the different types of creatine that may be included:
Creatine monohydrate, which is the most researched
Creatine HCL has limited research available
Kre-Alkalyn is a patented form of creatine and may help with better absorption
Creatine plus HMB
Creatine plus nitrate
Solubility
If powdered, does the product dissolve completely in liquid?
To test this, we mixed powders into water in a clear glass and observed the results. We also tasted the mixed drink to determine if we could detect any remnants of the powder.
Efficacy
Does the creatine do what it’s supposed to—i.e. help with strength and body recomposition?
To gauge this, we had our testers use the creatine for at least 30 days (the time period most researchers use) to see if there were any changes in their strength levels.
Cost
What’s the price per serving? We found that the average creatine product falls between $0.50 and $1 per serving. We call out when products are significantly higher or lower than that, assessing if the quality is a reflection of the difference.
Third-party testing
Has the product been tested for banned substances by Informed Sport, NSF, or Banned Substance Control Group (BSCG)? This is an important factor to us, because third-party testing indicates that the product is free from contaminants and has an accurate label.
When products do not have third-party testing, we look for other trust signals, such as clear labeling and no proprietary blends.
Taste/Flavors
Is there more than an unflavored option? How do all of them taste? While taste is subjective, we did make notes of our experiences and also looked to other customer reviews for support.
Ingredients
Does it just contain creatine, or are there other ingredients included to help with bioavailability?
Safety and Side Effects
To make sure there would be no adverse side effects, we again looked for third-party testing and asked our testers to note if they felt any indigestion or other symptoms while taking the creatine.
How to Choose the Best Creatine for You
Before you whip out your credit card, decide what creatine supplement is the best fit for you.
Decide What Your Goals Are
Are you strictly concerned with getting stronger or muscle-building while staying lean? Creatine monohydrate is the most-researched type of creatine, but is known to have some minor side effects like gastrointestinal issues and water retention. Creatine HCL has fewer reported side effects. Also creatine with HMB has been shown to help prevent the breakdown of muscle protein and enhance strength gains.
Consider Dosage
If you’re in a loading protocol and need to take 20 grams of creatine per day, consider the serving size of the supplement. Some containers only come with 30 servings, and if you need to take four per day, you’ll run through it quickly.
And Also Cost Per Serving
Whether you purchase from Amazon or directly from the manufacturer, creatine can range from less than 40 cents per serving on the low end, to $3 per serving on the high end. The most affordable options are usually just creatine monohydrate, while the more expensive options tend to have other ingredients in them.
Pill or Powder?
Would you rather swallow a few pills to hit your creatine dosing, or does powder sound more appealing? Plenty of unflavored powders are available—you can mix them with almost any drink—or you can find flavored options as well.
Choose Third Party-Tested Products
This is especially important if you’re an athlete, but really anyone taking supplements should heed this advice. Look for Informed Sport, NSF, or BSCG logos on the products to ensure they’ve been batch-tested for banned substances.
“Another consideration when purchasing nutritional supplements is that they are not fully regulated by the FDA,” says Dr. Caehla McGeady. “Many supplements on the market, creatine included, have been found to have16 a wide range of contaminants, including everything from harmless unlisted fillers to poisonous heavy metals and illegal levels of BPAs. Third-party testing mitigates the risk of harmful substances in your supplements.”
You can put the best creatine for your fitness goals on a monthly subscription. There are two reasons why you should do this: one, it ensures you’ll never run out of your favorite muscle-building supplement. Secondly, you’ll also likely get a discount so you end up paying less.
Benefits of Creatine
Creatine monohydrate is one of the most widely studied nutritional supplements, which is great news for you—this means that there’s research-backed evidence around the effects of creatine on performance and strength during high-intensity exercise.
Can enhance performance in high-intensity workouts and endurance: When you participate in short bouts of intense exercise—like a 10-second sprint or a one-rep-max squat—your body uses its anaerobic system and stores of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) for energy. ATP, which is produced by phosphocreatine stores inside your muscles, is limited. So, the idea is that if your creatine stores are not full, you may be missing out on potential ATP production, or in other words—leaving some untapped strength and power on the table.
Can promote muscle growth and strength: “While your body makes around 1 to 2 grams of creatine per day, individuals who train regularly may need to consume 5 to 10 g of creatine daily to maintain creatine stores,” says Dr. Krissy Kendall, Ph.D. “Creatine supplementation appears to be most useful for short-duration, high-intensity, intermittent exercise, and has been shown to boost the effects of resistance training on muscle strength and size, as well as athletic performance overall.”
Improves muscle recovery: Supplementing with creatine orally can help increase your intramuscular stores of creatine and phosphocreatine by as much as 40%, as shown in several studies17. Studies have also analyzed creatine monohydrate supplementation’s effect on strength and performance in resistance training exercises like leg press and bench press18, as well as explosive movements like jump height19, and a great majority have found improved results from the creatine supplementation group versus the control group. In fact, a meta-analysis20 of 22 studies found that the average increase in muscle strength following creatine supplementation was 8 percent greater than with just resistance training alone. Also, the increase in weightlifting performance was 14 percent greater than with just training alone.
May help improve brain function: We often talk about creatine’s effect on muscles, but emerging research is showing it may have similar benefits on our brain. A 2022 review21 of studies on creatine supplementation found there was sufficient evidence that it may help increase cognitive function and reduce symptoms of depression, concussions, and certain traumatic brain injuries. Further evidence shows that exogenous creatine may also have protective effects in early neurodegenerative disorders22.
While your body makes around 1 to 2 grams of creatine per day, individuals who train regularly may need to consume 5 to 10 g of creatine daily to maintain creatine stores,” says Dr. Kendall. “Creatine supplementation appears to be most useful for short-duration, high-intensity, intermittent exercise, and has been shown to boost the effects of resistance training on muscle strength and size, as well as athletic performance overall.
Dr. Krissy Kendall, PhD
Potential Side Effects of Creatine
Studies examining the effects of long-term creatine supplementation have demonstrated no negative effects on liver, kidney, blood, bone, brain, or muscle function. More so, there is no data that shows creatine causes muscle cramps or leads to dehydration. On the contrary, according to Dr. Krissy Kendall, Ph.D., creatine supplementation has been proposed to increase total body water, which can help to maintain hydration status.
Taking creatine, especially larger doses, may cause some occasional, minor gastrointestinal issues. “It’s estimated around 5 to 7% of people who take creatine may experience stomach aches; however, taking smaller doses (3-5 grams) or using a micronized form of creatine may help reduce gastrointestinal distress,” Dr. Kendall says. “Creatine loading may also lead to an initial weight gain of 1 to 2% body mass in the first few days due to water being pulled into the muscle; however, this is less likely to occur if following a low-dose protocol.”
“Generally, these side effects are more likely if you have an underlying gastrointestinal disorder such as IBS,” Dr. McGeady adds.
Although it’s widely recognized as a safe supplement, it’s always a good idea to consult your physician or a nutrition expert before taking creatine, especially if you take the following medications due to potential interactions in the kidneys:
While creatine is most often recommended to athletes, bodybuilders, or everyday gym-goers (and those people should absolutely take 3-5 grams per day), there are many other people who should take creatine on a regular basis. For example, there is some research23 that indicates it might be beneficial to those who experience chronic headaches, dizziness, or brain injuries (such as athletes who play in impact sports).
Other studies24 have shown that creatine, when paired with a resistance training regimen, could slow down signs of aging. Additionally, the supplement and regular exercise may help improve bone density to prevent injuries. Women and other pre- and post-menopausal people may also experienced increased bone density.
Although creatine doesn’t appear to affect kidney function in healthy individuals, it’s recommended that people with pre-existing kidney problems avoid taking creatine. Additionally, people with liver disease or high blood pressure should talk to their doctor first before taking creatine as there may be possible interactions with medications they are currently prescribed. Check out our Creatine Alternatives page for our top picks that offer the same benefits without the side effects.
Creatine monohydrate is the most studied and popular form of creatine used in supplements, but it’s not the only form available on the market. Three other popular variations include creatine hydrochloride (HCL); Kre-Alkalyn, which is creatine buffered with bicarbonate; and creatine nitrate (creatine bound to a nitrate molecule). Creatine monohydrate is the least expensive form of creatine and the one most commonly used in research studies—so you know it works. Additionally, creatine monohydrate is the most stable form of creatine on the market and the least likely to be contaminated by exogenous substances or breakdown byproducts11.
Creatine HCL is a creatine molecule bound to hydrochloric acid to enhance its solubility and overall absorption rates. Because of this, Dr. Kendall explains, you may be able to take a smaller dose (1 to 2 grams) and still observe the same benefits as taking 5 grams of creatine monohydrate. Consuming less product may help curb bloating and other minor gastrointestinal symptoms you may experience when taking larger doses of creatine monohydrate.
Kre-Alkalyn. “Manufacturers of Kre-Alkalyn claim that the addition of an alkaline powder (like bicarbonate) reduces the breakdown of creatine in the stomach leading to improved creatine uptake in the muscle,” says Dr. Kendall. “Improved absorption rates may mean you can skip the loading phase and still get the gains.”
And lastly, similar to the other forms of creatine, creatine nitrate is thought to have greater solubility, meaning you may receive equal benefits from a smaller dose of creatine nitrate (3 grams) compared to creatine monohydrate.
There are other creatine formulas—including creatine magnesium chelate, creatine ethyl ester, creatine citrate, and liquid creatine—but they’re not nearly as popular, and research surrounding their effects is limited.
The Best Time to Take Creatine
Creatine is the most-researched supplement in the world, and yet no study has been able to conclusively determine the best time to take creatine. We found three studies showing that there were no significant differences in people who took creatine before or after their workout, with one study25 saying it’s best to take it shortly prior to or following your training sessions rather than at a random time during the day.
The best way to take creatine is by starting with a creatine loading phase—or taking 5 grams of creatine monohydrate four to five times per day for a week, and then 5 grams per day going forward. This will ensure your creatine stores are fully loaded and that you’re reaping the most benefits from the supplement.
Best Creatine FAQS
How much creatine should I take?
If you’re taking creatine for the first time, it’s recommended to take 5 grams four to five times per day for a week (this is known as the “loading phase”, and then take 5 grams of creatine monohydrate every day after that. Some people may require closer to 3 grams per day, so it’s best to check with a nutritionist or physician.
Does creatine cause hair loss?
No, creatine does not cause hair loss. You might found some studies claiming it does, but the overwhelming amount of evidence states that there is no link between creatine supplementation and balding, according to a review of more than 500 studies.
Does creatine make you gain weight?
Creatine may increase your weight by helping you build and retain muscle mass, but if you’re wondering if it increases body fat the answer is no, according to a review of more than 500 studies on the supplement.
Is creatine safe?
For the vast majority of people, yes creatine is safe when consumed at the recommended dose (3-5 grams). A review of more than 500 creatine studies found it’s safe to use for adults, teens, and even children.
Is creatine a steroid?
No, despite the urban legends you may have heard creatine is not an anabolic steroid.
Forbes, S. C., Cordingley, D. M., Cornish, S. M., Gualano, B., Roschel, H., Ostojic, S. M., Rawson, E. S., Roy, B. D., Prokopidis, K., Giannos, P., & Candow, D. G. (2022). Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Brain Function and Health. Nutrients, 14(5), 921. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14050921
Riesberg, L. A., Weed, S. A., McDonald, T. L., Eckerson, J. M., & Drescher, K. M. (2016). Beyond muscles: The untapped potential of creatine. International Immunopharmacology, 37, 31–42. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.intimp.2015.12.034
Institute of Medicine (US) Committee on Nutrition, Trauma, and the Brain, Erdman, J., Oria, M., & Pillsbury, L. (Eds.). (2011). 10, Creatine. Nutrition and Traumatic Brain Injury: Improving Acute and Subacute Health Outcomes in Military Personnel. National Academies Press (US).
Nicole is the head of content at GGR. She's been a journalist for the last 13 years and a CPT/group fitness instructor for the last 10 years. She grew up playing tennis, became an avid runner in college, competed in a bikini competition in her mid-twenties, and even completed a triathlon. Her workout of choice nowadays is strength training, plus logging her daily steps. After her first daughter was born six years ago, she became especially passionate about prenatal and postnatal fitness, teaching stroller bootcamp classes and working with expecting moms as clients. Post-journalism school, Nicole worked in print media as a magazine editor for eight years, then went freelance for a while, writing for fitness websites and manufacturers in the industry. Now, as the the head of content at GGR, she brings her expertise in fitness to writing and editing honest reviews on everything you might need for your home gym.
Creatine has long been a tried and true supplement for active people whether they want to gain more lean muscle mass or support performance. Not only does this amino acid replenish energy stores and have positive effects on muscle strength and size, other creatine benefits include potential improvements to brain function and even a reduction in fatigue. That said, while the benefits of creatine are well known, the sheer number of types, » Read more about: The Best Creatine Supplement in 2025, According to Trainers and Dietitians » Read more