When you need an extra boost to power through your training session, a pre-workout supplement could help. Many formulas contain ingredients that can help increase energy levels, enhance concentration and focus, and even delay the time to muscle fatigue.
However, choosing the right pre-workout can be a daunting task. To help you make the right decision, we’ve rounded up the nine best pre-workouts of 2025 based on our in-depth, multi-point supplement testing methodology. We personally test and rate products from 1 to 5 on factors such as:
- Formulation: Does it have scientifically backed ingredients and dosages? To earn a 5-out-of-5 rating, a product must contain clinically effective doses of proven ingredients such as caffeine, citrulline, and beta-alanine.
- Third-party testing: Can we trust the accuracy of the label? We awarded our highest ratings to companies that major organizations, such as NSF or Informed Choice, have tested and approved.
- Taste: Is it drinkable, and are there multiple flavor options? An average 3-out-of-5-star product tastes fine, but not great, while a 5 out of 5 would be one of the best-tasting pre-workouts we’ve ever tried.
- Price per serving: Does it align with the market average, or are you paying too much? An average pre-workout costs roughly $1.50 per serving, which was our reference point for a 3 out of 5 rating.
- Solubility: Does it mix well with the recommended amount of liquid? Are there any floaters or clumps? These are some of the things we assessed during our testing.
Our team, which includes certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, USA Weightlifting coaches, and elite athletes, personally tested more than 100 pre-workout supplements across various types of training, including Olympic-level preparation. Drawing from their experiences, and with expert insight from dietitian Destini Moody, RD, CSSD, LD, I used my Ph.D. in exercise physiology to evaluate which formulas contain research-backed ingredients, deliver real results, and are worth your money.
We’ve already helped nearly 11,800 people find the right pre-workout to reach their health and wellness goals—and we’re here to help you, too.
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.
The 9 Best Pre-Workout Supplements of 2025
- Best Pre-Workout Overall – Transparent Labs BULK Pre-Workout
- Best Pre-Workout for Beginners – Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Pre-Workout Powder
- Best Caffeine-Free Pre-Workout – Legion Pulse Naturally Sweetened & Flavored Pre-Workout
- Best Pump Pre-Workout – Kaged Pre-Workout Sport
- Best Tasting Pre-Workout – Cellucor C4 Pre-Workout
- Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain – Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout
- Best Budget Pre-Workout – Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout
- Best Non-Stim Pre-Workout – Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre-Workout
- Best Pre-Workout for Running – 1st Phorm Endura-Formance
Best Black Friday and Cyber Monday Pre-Workout Deals (2025)
- Legion Pulse Naturally Sweetened & Flavored Pre-Workout – BOGO 75% off sitewide
- Kaged Pre-Workout Sport – Save 30% sitewide with the code BLACKOUT
- Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre-Workout – 25% off + free bundle on orders $149+
- Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Pre-Workout Powder – Save up to 43% on Jacked Factory products on Amazon
Editor’s Note
At Garage Gym Reviews, we continually test pre-workout supplements and update this page to reflect our top finds. Our team of certified personal trainers, elite athletes, and home gym experts has tested over 100 pre-workouts, including pump products, stim-free variations, high-potency options, and more. In September 2025, we updated the format of this guide to include a detailed examination of our testing results for each product, along with tables for comparing each supplement to the average pre-workout.
Best Pre-Workout Supplement Video Review
Compare Side By Side
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| Transparent Labs BULK | Jacked Factory Nitrosurge | Legion Pulse | Kaged Pre-Workout Sport | Cellucor C4 | Gold Standard Pre-Workout | Nutricost Pre-X | Transparent Labs Stim-Free | 1st Phorm Endura-Formance | |
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| Price Per Serving | $1.67 | $0.75-$1 | $2.50 | $1.25 | $1.17 | $1.10 | $0.63-$0.83 | $1.67 | $1.56 |
| Serving Size | Approximately 22.9g per scoop | 8.4 g | 23.5 g | 1 scoop (13.2 g) | 8.9 g | 10 g | 17 g | 20.8 g | 16g (1 scoop) |
| Third-party Tested? | — | — | — | ||||||
| Caffeine | 200 mg | 180 mg | 350 mg | 188 mg | 200 mg | 175 mg | 300 mg | 0 mg | 0 mg |
| Beta-Alanine | 4 g | 1.6 g | 3.6 g | 2 g | 1.5 g | 2 g | 4 g | ||
| Citrulline | 8 g citrulline malate | 3 g L-citrulline | 8 g citrulline malate | 1.2 g | 0.75 g | 4 g | 8 g citrulline malate | 0 g | |
| Flavors | 9 flavors | 11 flavors | 19 flavors | Blue Raspberry, Fruit Punch, Glacier Grape, Mango Lime, Pink Lemonade, Watermelon | 4 flavors | 4 flavors | 3 flavors | 7 flavors | 4 flavors |
Best Pre-Workout Overall: Transparent Labs BULK Pre-Workout
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
Transparent Labs’ BULK supplement is attractive to those whose primary focus is split between potential muscle gain and a pre-workout pump. While the taste is questionable, the product works well for most users.
What our tester says:
“The Blue Raspberry flavor is exactly what you’d expect from your typical Blue Razz—it’s not too sweet either, which I like.”
At a Glance
- Moderate caffeine content
- Great flavors
- May cause beta-alanine tingles
- Third-party tested
As the name suggests, BULK pre-workout is marketed to individuals looking to bulk up and gain muscle mass—but it provides a great energy boost for anyone, regardless of their fitness goals. It contains an impressive lineup of ingredients, transparent labeling, and is free from artificial preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and gluten.
In addition to having a 5-out-of-5 formulation, this is also one of the best-tasting pre-workouts we’ve tested and contains a moderate dose of caffeine that shouldn’t cause excessive jitters.
Taste: 5/5
Solubility: 5/5
Formulation: 5/5
Why We Like Transparent Labs BULK Pre-Workout
Pre-workout supplements often underdose the effective ingredients, which is not the case with BULK. Transparent Labs uses the right doses of science-backed ingredients, which is why we gave it 5 out of 5 stars for the formulation.
Nicole Davis, CPT, PN1-NC, tried the Blue Raspberry flavor of BULK. “It was tasty, and it mixed well,” she says, rating it a perfect 5-out-of-5 score for both taste and solubility.
We also appreciate that it’s third-party tested by Dyad Labs, with a Certificate of Analysis available, so you can be confident that each scoop contains exactly what’s listed on the label.
“I feel energized without jitters, and the focus it provides is like putting horse blinders on your brain, and the only thing you can see are the weights. The pump is also filthier than a pig rolling in mud.”
Anthony O’Reilly, CPT, CNC
Alternatives
One callout we have is the hefty dose of beta-alanine, which is dosed at 4 grams per serving in BULK. It’s a beneficial ingredient to include, but it can cause a tingling or itching sensation after consumption.10
Nicole Davis, CPT, PN1-NC, found this to be the case, stating, “I experienced significant tingling and only took half a serving, so there’s something to be said of that mega dose of beta-alanine.”
If you’re not a fan of beta-alanine, you may want to consider a pre-workout that doesn’t contain a full dose of it, like Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Pre-Workout Powder.
Testing Breakdown
Here’s how Transparent Labs BULK Pre-Workout stood up to our rigorous testing.
Vs. The Average
Here’s how BULK stacks up against the average pre-workout. It has more caffeine per serving and more flavor options, but it’s also more expensive.
| Transparent Labs BULK | Average Pre-Workout | |
| Price per serving | $1.67 | $1.51 |
| Serving size | 20.8 g | 14 g |
| Caffeine content | 200 mg | 170 mg |
| Number of flavors | 12 | 6 |
| Third-party tested? | Yes | Yes |
To learn more, be sure to read our full Transparent Labs BULK review.
Best Pre-Workout for Beginners: Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Pre-Workout Powder
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Pre-Workout is a generally positively reviewed pre-workout with 180 milligrams of caffeine and a large variety of flavor options.
What our tester says:
“I like that you still get 180 milligrams of caffeine with 1 scoop, so you get the energy but without all the other effects.”
At a Glance
- Delicious flavors
- Multiple serving size options
- Contains sucralose
- No third-party testing
Our expert product testers agreed that Jacked Factory Nitrosurge is the best pre-workout drink for beginners because it gives you the option to use one or two scoops with clear labeling for both dosage sizes.
The one-scoop option, which we recommend for beginners, provides enough energy to help you power through your workouts without overloading you with pre-workout ingredients that rookies sometimes struggle with, such as beta-alanine (the face itch is no joke)10. Overall, it earns 4 out of 5 stars for the formulation.
Taste: 5/5
Price Per Serving: 5/5
Solubility: 5/5
Why We Like Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Pre-Workout Powder
One of the main reasons we love Nitrosurge, especially for beginners, is that Jacked Factory clearly provides the dosing for both one- and two-scoop servings. For those new to pre-workouts or sensitive to caffeine, this allows you to easily find your perfect dosing.
“I like that you still get 180 milligrams of caffeine with this, so you get the energy but without all the other effects,” says Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, who tested Nitrosurge along with members of her weightlifting team, giving it a 4 out of 5 for its effects on energy and focus13. “If you do half a scoop of other pre-workouts to modify the serving size, you don’t get all that caffeine.”
“I’d drink this by the side of a pool over ice. I could drink it all day. It is by far my favorite pre-workout.”
Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1
Alternatives
As noted earlier, one scoop of Nitrosurge contains 180 milligrams of caffeine, but we know many users will take two scoops, and that may be a little much for some.
The 180 milligrams of caffeine is about what you’d get in two 8-ounce cups of coffee1. The 360 milligrams of caffeine in a two-scoop dose, however, may be too much for some people, especially smaller individuals and those with caffeine sensitivities. Dr. Leann Poston warns, “While the FDA says 400 milligrams per day is safe for most people, this is unlikely to be the only source of caffeine for someone in a day.”
We also wish that Jacked Factory provided third-party testing. While we rate this at 3 out of 5 given its cGMP-certified facility, we’d like to see more independent testing, especially for pre-workout novices.
If you want a different formula that has a little less caffeine in a full serving, we recommend Transparent Labs BULK, which contains 200 milligrams per scoop.
Testing Breakdown
We had several team members test Jacked Factory Nitrosurge, and here are the results.
Vs. The Average
Compared to the average pre-workout powder, Jacked Factory is cheaper and has more caffeine and flavor options, but it’s missing independent third-party testing.
| Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Pre-Workout Powder | Average Pre-Workout | |
| Price per serving | $0.45-$1.02 | $1.51 |
| Serving size | 8.6-17.2 g | 14 g |
| Caffeine content | 180-360 mg | 170 mg |
| Number of flavors | 11 | 6 |
| Third-party tested? | No | Yes |
For all the details, be sure to read our full Jacked Factory Nitrosurge review.
Best Caffeine-Free Pre-Workout: Legion Pulse Naturally Sweetened & Flavored Pre-Workout
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
Formulated with all-natural ingredients, each of which are present at a high level, Legion Pulse’s stim-free pre-workout formula is a fan favorite. If you’re trying to avoid artificial flavors and chemicals, this may be a good choice.
What our tester says:
“While it mixes well, the Blue Raspberry does have a bitter taste and an unpleasant aftertaste.”
At a Glance
- Third-party tested formula
- Stim and non-stim versions available
- Clinically-dosed ingredients
- No artificial sweeteners
Available in both caffeinated and non-caffeinated versions, Legion Pulse Naturally Sweetened & Flavored Pre-Workout is specifically designed to boost energy levels, support increased strength and endurance, and help reduce fatigue. The reason it’s so effective is that each ingredient is backed by scientific research and dosed at research-backed levels. We rated this high in terms of effects, giving it a 4 out of 5.
When you opt for the caffeine-free variation, you’ll still receive a blend of performance-enhancing ingredients (like l-citrulline and beta-alanine), making it a great choice for evening workouts or for those sensitive to caffeine.14
Taste: 4/5
Effects: 4/5
Price Per Serving: 2/5
Why We Like Legion Pulse Naturally Sweetened & Flavored Pre-Workout
Legion is known for its high-quality supplements, which are formulated with clinical doses, no artificial sweeteners or fillers, and carry third-party testing credentials from Labdoor. Pulse is one of the few pre-workouts that’s available both with and without caffeine, so it’s a versatile choice.
Jacob Penner, USA Weightlifting L-2 coach, has used Pulse before more than two dozen workouts. He has personally tried roughly 50 pre-workouts, and says the caffeinated version is one of his favorites.
“This blend has a 1:1 ratio of l-theanine to caffeine, so you get a really balanced experience,” he says. “If you set aside all of the high-stim pre-workouts, this is probably one of my favorites because every time I use it, I feel energized but not over-stimulated.”
Even if you opt for the stim-free version that we recommend for those sensitive to caffeine, you’ll still receive a nice performance boost without any energizing ingredients. Instead, the ingredients support muscular endurance and blood flow.15
“The Peach Ring flavor is a 5 out of 5. I would drink it just for the taste.”
Jacob Penner, USA Weightlifting L-2 coach
Alternatives
We love the formulation of Pulse, which includes high-quality ingredients, no artificial sweeteners, clinical dosing, and third-party testing.
There’s only one downside: Each serving is two scoops, and there are only 20 servings in a container. If you take pre-workout every day, you’ll run through this product pretty quickly. And with the price costing over $2 a serving, the expenses can begin to add up, earning a 3 out of 5 for value.
For a more affordable alternative, we suggest trying Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout, our pick for the best budget pre-workout.
Testing Breakdown
Here’s how our testers scored Legion Pulse Naturally Sweetened & Flavored Pre-Workout, using our supplement testing methodology.
Vs. The Average
Here’s how the stim-free version of Legion Pulse Naturally Sweetened & Flavored Pre-Workout compares to the average pre-workout formula.
| Legion Pulse Naturally Sweetened & Flavored Pre-Workout | Average Pre-Workout | |
| Price per serving | $2.50 per serving | $1.51 |
| Serving size | 22 g | 14 g |
| Caffeine content | 0 mg | 170 mg |
| Number of flavors | Without caffeine: 8; with caffeine: 19 | 6 |
| Third-party tested? | Yes | Yes |
Read more in our full Legion Pulse Naturally Sweetened & Flavored Pre-Workout review.
Best Pump Pre-Workout: Kaged Pre-Workout Sport
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
Kaged Pre-Workout Sport delivers hydration and energy in a clean, moderate formula that’s ideal for everyday training. While it doesn’t pack the punch of higher-stim pre-workouts, it’s a great pick for athletes who prioritize clean ingredients and hydration support. It’s available in several flavors and is NSF Certified for Sport, meaning it’s been tested for the presence of banned substances.
At a Glance
- Supports hydration
- Moderate caffeine dosage
- Mixed reviews on the flavors
- Third-party tested
Kaged Pre-Workout Sport is designed specifically for athletes to aid their hydration levels. It contains 500 milligrams of coconut water powder, which studies3 have shown may be just as effective as traditional sports drinks at replenishing hydration levels.
In addition to enhancing your hydration, which is essential for the best muscle pumps, Kaged has added l-citrulline, an ingredient that promotes greater blood4 flow by increasing levels of nitric oxide. The combination of increasing hydration and blood flow helps you get a better pump during your strength training sessions.
Third-Party Testing: 4.5/5
Solubility: 4/5
Price Per Serving: 3.5/5
Why We Like Kaged Pre-Workout Sport
Kaged is one of the best supplements for those who value performance and hydration over a high dose of stimulants, making it a great pre-workout for those chasing a pump.
Matt Dustin, a GGR staff writer and certified strength and conditioning coach, tested Kaged Pre-Workout Sport and had a good experience overall. “I felt energized after taking it and just slightly jittery, but it wasn’t unpleasant,” he says.
This pre-workout has 188 milligrams of caffeine per serving, which likely explains the low amount of jitters Matt felt. The caffeine content can be good for beginners or those who like to drink other caffeinated beverages throughout the day.
Registered Dietitian Destini Moody approves of Kaged Pre-Workout Sport’s formula, rating it 3.5 out of 5 stars. “It has just the right amount of caffeine and standard pre-workout ingredients for casual exercisers, and the ingredients in the sports performance matrix are well-dosed. Plus, being third-party tested makes this a great recommendation for pro and college athletes, and this earns 4.5 out of 5 for third-party testing,” she says.
Even though the formulation only earned 3.5 out of 5, that’s due to the dosing, not the ingredients themselves. Some of the ingredients are included at sub-clinical doses, though this is intentional.
For example, the l-citrulline dose is lower than what’s been shown to be clinically effective; however, Kaged notes that the lower dose is intentional to enhance blood flow without overstimulation.
“It tastes like a blue raspberry lollipop, but it was very sweet, even mixed with the maximum amount of water Kaged recommends using.”
Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
Alternatives
While we like the formulation, our testers had mixed experiences with the taste. Matt found it to be very sweet and rated the taste at 3 out of 5. Other testers enjoyed the flavor, though they agreed that it’s pretty strong.
For those with a sweet tooth, this is a good choice. However, anyone who prefers a milder taste may want to opt for something else.
If you’re looking for a pre-workout that doesn’t have an overpowering flavor, consider our pick for the best-tasting pre-workout, Cellucor C4 Pre-Workout.
Testing Breakdown
Here’s how we calculated our final score for Kaged Pre-Workout Sport.
Vs. The Average
As you can see from the table below, Kaged Pre-Workout Sport is more affordable than the average pre-workout formula, but it contains slightly less caffeine, and there are only five flavors to choose from.
| Kaged Pre-Workout Sport | Average Pre-Workout | |
| Price per serving | $1.25 | $1.51 |
| Serving size | 13.2 g | 14 g |
| Caffeine content | 188 mg | 170 mg |
| Number of flavors | 5 | 6 |
| Third-party tested? | Yes | Yes |
To learn more, read our full Kaged Pre-Workout Sport Review.
Best Tasting Pre-Workout: Cellucor C4 Pre-Workout
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
If you’re looking for an affordable pre-workout drink from a big-name supplement company, give C4 a look.
What our tester says:
“Icy Blue Razz is my favorite; it never fails. But actually, I’ve liked every flavor of C4 I’ve tried.”
At a Glance
- Delicious flavors
- Affordable cost
- Contains artificial sweeteners
- No third-party testing
If you’re looking for a great-tasting pre-workout, look no further than Cellucor C4. At the time of writing, there are seven flavors to choose from, though Cellucor has added and removed flavors over the years, so you may see different options when ordering.
We had multiple testers try various flavors of Cellucor C4, and everyone agreed each flavor was a 5 out of 5 in the taste department, which is why we think this is the best-tasting pre-workout. “Icy Blue Razz never fails,” says Anthony O’Reilly, CPT, CNC. “And actually, I’ve liked every flavor of C4 I’ve tried.”
Taste: 5/5
Effects: 4/5
Price Per Serving: 5/5
Why We Like Cellucor C4 Pre-Workout
C4 Original was introduced in 2011 and is one of the most popular pre-workouts of all time, often considered the No. 1 pre-workout in the country. There’s a reason it’s a best-seller among fitness enthusiasts: it contains 200 milligrams of caffeine per serving—a similar dose found in about 2 cups of coffee—with no added carbs.
“I will sometimes do a caffeine detox, and this is a great powder for dipping your toes back into the stim pool,” Anthony says. “You’re not going to get Mr. Olympia-level pumps from it, but your sleeves will feel a bit tighter than they were before you started the workout.”
Anthony gave the overall effects a 4-out-of-5-star rating.
It also costs just over $1 per serving (less with a subscription), making it one of the more affordable options on the market. This easily earns 5 out of 5 stars for its value.
“I’ve been known to drink enough cold brew to take down a baby elephant, so I didn’t think the 150 milligrams of caffeine in C4 was going to have much of an impact on my energy levels. I was wrong, and I definitely felt more energized.”
Anthony O’Reilly, CPT, CNC
Alternatives
Our main callout is the formulation, as some ingredients in C4 Original are underdosed. For example, it only has 1.2 grams of l-citrulline when the clinically-recommended dose2 is closer to 3 to 6 grams.
It also contains sucralose, an artificial sweetener that some users may wish to avoid. Accordingly, the formulation earns 3 out of 5 stars, which is average, but nothing special.
If you’re looking for a formulation with better ingredients and dosing, we recommend Transparent Labs BULK Pre-Workout, our top choice for the best overall pre-workout.
Testing Breakdown
Here’s how C4 stood up to our supplement testing methodology.
Vs. The Average
To see if C4 beats the competition, here’s how it compares to the average pre-workout formula on the market.
| Cellucor C4 Pre-Workout | Average Pre-Workout | |
| Price per serving | $1.17 | $1.51 |
| Serving size | 9 g | 14 g |
| Caffeine content | 200 mg | 170 mg |
| Number of flavors | 7 | 6 |
| Third-party tested? | No | Yes |
Read more in our in-depth C4 Pre-Workout review.
Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
Made with simple yet effective ingredients, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout provides users with a good boost of energy, improved focus, and enhanced performance.
What our tester says:
“We have people on the weightlifting team who have been using Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout for years; the flavors are always absolutely delicious. Sweet, but not too sweet.”
At a Glance
- Third-party tested
- Moderate caffeine dose
- Sweet taste that’s not overpowering
- Budget-friendly
If you’re currently focused on building muscle, this is one of the best pre-workout formulas to consider adding to your supplement stack, thanks to the inclusion of creatine.
Creatine is the most-studied sports supplement on the planet, with countless researchers affirming5 that it can help with muscle gain and boost your performance in the gym. This is why many people combine it with their pre-workout of choice, but we think it’s better to use Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout since each scoop contains a research-backed 3 grams of creatine per scoop.
Taste: 5/5
Formulation: 4/5
Effects: 4/5
Why We Like Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout
Optimum Nutrition has created a solid product that earns 4 out of 5 stars for its formulation. We would’ve liked to see more l-citrulline (there’s less than 1 gram), and the 175 milligrams of caffeine is slightly lower than the 200 milligrams we typically like to see in pre-workouts. This is more caffeine than the average pre-workout contains, but still slightly less than what we’d prefer to see.
Still, GGR Senior Director of Content and certified personal trainer Kate Meier says her weightlifting team got consistent results when using it.
The taste is another 5 out of 5, with each member of Kate’s team raving about the four flavors available: Watermelon, Green Apple, Fruit Punch, and Blueberry Lemonade. “They’re sweet but not too sweet,” Kate says.
“I get great focus and great energy level from this. Not the strongest pump, but this is always a reliable choice for pre-workout.”
Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1
Alternatives
It’s hard to find many flaws with this pre-workout, especially at such a low price point. Still, one callout is the taste.
We gave it 5 out of 5 stars, but the included artificial flavors and sucralose can create a synthetic, chemical-like aftertaste for some. We enjoyed the taste, but those with sensitive taste buds may detect an unpleasant aftertaste.
If great taste is your biggest priority, we highly recommend Cellucor C4 Pre-Workout, which has an amazing flavor and won the title of best-tasting pre-workout.
Testing Breakdown
As with all pre-workouts, we used our testing methodology to rate Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout, and here’s how it scored.
Vs. The Average
If you’re on the fence, here’s how Optimum Nutrition compares to the average pre-workout.
| Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout | Average Pre-Workout | |
| Price per serving | $1.10 | $1.51 |
| Serving size | 10 g | 14 g |
| Caffeine content | 175 mg | 170 mg |
| Number of flavors | 4 | 6 |
| Third-party tested? | Yes | Yes |
To read more about this formula, check out our full Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout review.
Best Budget Pre-Workout: Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
Nutricost Pre-X is an affordable pre-workout at about $1 per serving. There are five flavors to choose from, each with a light and refreshing taste. Each serving contains 300 milligrams of caffeine, which is equivalent to about 3 cups of coffee.
What our tester says:
“With this one, even two hours after taking it, I didn’t have a comedown, crash, or feel tired. I could still work really hard through my sessions.”
At a Glance
- Very affordable price
- Strong formulation
- Good flavors
- May not dissolve completely
For those looking for an affordable pre-workout, this is one of the best options on the market.
Nutricost Pre-X can cost anywhere from $0.63 to $0.83 per serving, depending on the container size and flavor you order, which earns a strong 5 out of 5 for the price per serving. This is typically the part where we’d say something like, “You get what you pay for,” but in this case, you’re getting more bang for less buck.
“I think this is one of the best formulas, and I’ve tested more than 50 pre-workouts,” says Jacob Penner, a Level-2 USA Weightlifting coach. “This feels like a clean product without anything stupid in it, so it’s not causing negative side effects. I feel the way I should feel after taking a pre-workout.”
Taste: 4.5/5
Price Per Serving: 4.5/5
Formulation: 4/5
Why We Like Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout
In addition to the unbeatable price per serving, which we rate at 4.5 out of 5, this product has a good formulation and excellent flavor, according to our testers.
Each scoop contains 300 milligrams of caffeine for energy and focus, 4 grams of l-citrulline to support nitric oxide production and achieve a pump, and 1.5 grams of betaine anhydrous for enhanced strength output and muscular endurance. We’re deducting one point for formulation and giving it a 4 out of 5 because it contains extra stimulants, such as DMAE—a mild stimulant that some people may be sensitive to.
Jacob and his weightlifting partner, Micky, said the pre-workout mainly helped them with focus, and both noted there was no crash despite the high number of stimulants. “With this one, even two hours after taking it, I didn’t have a comedown or feel tired,” says Micky. “I could still work really hard through my sessions.”
“I’ve always liked the Nutricost pre-workout for the taste. They do a really good job with flavors.”
Jacob Penner, USA Weightlifting L-2 coach
Alternatives
If we had to say one negative thing about Nutricost’s pre-workout formula, it would be that it doesn’t completely dissolve when blended with water, earning a 4 out of 5 for solubility. “This dissolves almost all the way, but there are still some little bits—like little beads,” Jacob says.
This shouldn’t be a huge dealbreaker, but we know plenty of our readers don’t enjoy sipping on a gritty beverage.
Another good choice is Jacked Factory Nitrosurge Pre-Workout Powder, which earned 5 out of 5 stars for taste and solubility.
Testing Breakdown
After extensive testing, our testers used our methodology to calculate a final score. Here’s how we rated Nutricost Pre-X in each category.
Vs. The Average
Here’s a look at how Nutricost Pre-X compares to the average pre-workout formulation. It has more caffeine and a lower price tag, but fewer flavors to choose from.
| Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout | Average Pre-Workout | |
| Price per serving | $0.63-$0.83 | $1.51 |
| Serving size | 17 g | 14 g |
| Caffeine content | 300 mg | 170 mg |
| Number of flavors | 3 | 6 |
| Third-party tested? | Yes | Yes |
To learn more, be sure to read our full Nutricost Pre-X review.
Best Non-Stim Pre-Workout: Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre-Workout
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre-Workout is an uncaffeinated pre-workout powder that will not give you the jitters or tingling commonly associated with pre-workout supplements. This pre-workout contains a blend of citrulline malate, beta-alanine, L-tyrosine, taurine, and elevATP, a compound claimed to increase ATP activity in muscle cells.
What our tester says:
“I felt focused at all times and there was no energy crash at the end of my workout.”
At a Glance
- Supports focus and pump
- Zero stimulants
- Good flavors
- Third-party tested
While there are plenty of pre-workouts that don’t contain any caffeine, you may still find some secondary stimulants, such as yohimbine or taurine. Thankfully, Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre-Workout is more of a pump-focused product, with no stimulants of any kind.
We gave Transparent Labs Stim-Free pre-workout a near-perfect 4.5 out of 5 on its formulation. It is essentially a caffeine-free version of the brand’s standard pre-workouts for those who prefer to train at night, or simply want all their caffeine to come from coffee, tea, or other beverages.
Taste: 4.5/5
Formulation: 4.5/5
Solubility: 3.5/5
Why We Like Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre-Workout
Despite the lack of stimulants, this is a great pre-workout for those seeking a better pump and enhanced focus. The primary ingredient is citrulline malate, which can help improve blood flow to muscles, along with beta-alanine and betaine.
Overall, the formulation earns 4.5 out of 5 stars. Despite its lack of stimulants, the included ingredients are clinically dosed to boost your performance in the gym, so this is a good choice for those sensitive to caffeine.
In addition to improving blood flow, Transparent Labs added Huperzine A, taurine, and l-tyrosine to help with mental focus, especially since there’s no caffeine to help with cognitive alertness. Anthony O’Reilly, a GGR expert product tester, said he didn’t miss the caffeine jolt with this enjoyable powder, and gave it 4 out of 5 stars for the effects.
“I usually need a little pick-me-up to remain focused on my workouts,” Anthony says, “But after taking this, I might have to change my supplement stack. I felt focused at all times, and there was no energy crash at the end of my workout.”
“I got Cherry Limeade. It’s tart and not overly sweet, unlike many other flavors, which I appreciate. This is one of the only Transparent Labs supplements that I do not have to dilute purposely.”
Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC
Alternatives
We love this formulation, but the obvious issue is the lack of stimulants. This is a great thing for those who train at night, or anyone who wants to avoid stimulants. However, we know that most pre-workout users are looking for a stimulant effect, and may want to consider something else.
It’s also somewhat expensive at $1.67 per serving, earning only 3 out of 5 stars for the price per serving.
If you’re looking for a great pre-workout that contains stimulants, we recommend Transparent Labs BULK Pre-Workout, another good choice from the same reputable brand.
Testing Breakdown
Here’s how we calculated a final score for Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre-Workout.
Vs. The Average
With no caffeine, this won’t be an apples-to-apples comparison, but here’s how Transparent Labs compares to the average pre-workout.
| Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre-Workout | Average Pre-Workout | |
| Price per serving | $1.67 | $1.51 |
| Serving size | 20.8 g | 14 g |
| Caffeine content | 0 mg | 170 mg |
| Number of flavors | 7 | 6 |
| Third-party tested? | Yes | Yes |
Read more about this stim-free formula in our Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre-Workout review.
Best Pre-Workout for Running: 1st Phorm Endura-Formance
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
Endura-Formance is formulated with all the key ingredients one would look for in a pre-workout drink. While the taste is not for everyone, most users experienced improved performance at the gym.
What our tester says:
“The flavor is fantastic: Not too sweet, yet slightly tart. Plus, there’s no weird aftertaste.”
At a Glance
- Stimulant-free formulation
- Excellent flavor
- Contains electrolytes
- Average price
1st Phorm manufactures a range of dietary supplements, including protein powders and bars, BCAAs, and, of course, pre-workouts. Endura-Formance is the brand’s premium pre-workout product containing research-backed ingredients shown to enhance muscular endurance and speed up the recovery process after a tough treadmill workout.
Certified personal trainer and former competitive triathlete Amanda Capritto used Endura-Formance when training for her races and says it always gave her a boost, giving it a 5 out of 5 for effects. “I love taking this before all types of workouts, but especially endurance workouts since it has ample sodium,” Amanda says.
Effects: 5/5
Taste: 4.5/5
Price Per Serving: 3/5
Why We Like 1st Phorm Endura-Formance
While most pre-workouts contain stimulants and pump-supporting ingredients, we love that this formula is designed for endurance athletes and contains things like sodium and other key compounds.
As a reminder, sodium is an electrolyte that can help fuel those longer workouts that leave your clothes drenched in sweat. “It also contains the clinical dosage of creatine, which is awesome to see, plus beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, and l-tyrosine, all great ingredients in pre-workout,” Amanda adds, giving the formulation 3.75 out of 515.
Amanda points to two other ingredients that make this a perfect fit for runners: PeakO2 and S7. “PeakO2 is a patented compound that is said to increase oxygen utilization while decreasing lactate, a combo that results in greater work capacity,” Amanda explains. “S7 is a blend of seven nutraceuticals that has been clinically shown to increase nitric oxide production by up to 230%.”16 Much more research is needed to better understand these effects, as well as any potential risks of use.
“It’s fantastic. Not too sweet, slightly tart, no weird aftertaste.”
Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC
Alternatives
At $1.56 per serving, this is priced right around the average pre-workout cost and earns 3 out of 5 for the price per serving. This is a fair price, but there are more affordable options available, especially for those seeking a stimulant-based product.
While 1st Phorm offers a subscription option to save money, it only saves you $2.00 per tub, bringing the price down to $1.49 per serving. That’s better than nothing, but it’s not really saving you very much.
If you’re looking for a more affordable choice that contains plenty of caffeine, we suggest Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout.
Testing Breakdown
Here’s how 1st Phorm Endura-Formance scored after our extensive testing and scoring process.
Vs. The Average
Here’s how 1st Phorm’s endurance product compares to the average pre-workout. It’s a little more expensive, but still very close to the average price, making it a good choice for endurance athletes.
| 1st Phorm Endura-Formance | Average Pre-Workout | |
| Price per serving | $1.56 | $1.51 |
| Serving size | 16.2 g | 14 g |
| Caffeine content | 0 mg | 170 mg |
| Number of flavors | 4 | 6 |
| Third-party tested? | Yes | Yes |
To learn more, be sure to read our full 1st Phorm Endura-Formance review.
Other Pre-Workout Supplements We Researched
There are hundreds of pre-workout supplements on the market, but we couldn’t include them all. Here are a few we like that almost made our list, but didn’t quite make the cut.
- El Jefe Pre-Workout: This is one of the strongest formulas we’ve tested, and our tester found it left him very jittery and anxious. Those with high stimulant tolerances may love this, but it’s a bit too strong for us to recommend to the average person.
- 4 Gauge Pre-Workout: This product has a strong formulation that provides an excellent pump. However, the taste is a little bitter, and some of our testers found it hard to drink.
- Ryse Godzilla Pre-Workout: Ryse has gone semi-viral on TikTok, but is it worth the hype? “This is a stronger pre-workout than what I have used before. It’s the first time I really felt the strong tingles, and I have a strong tolerance to caffeine,” says Rose, a member of Kate Meier’s weightlifting team. Our Ryse pre-workout review has our full thoughts and ratings.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Pre-Workouts
Deciding on the nine best pre-workouts was no easy feat. We weighed the pros and cons of each product after analyzing these factors and using our GGR supplement testing methodology:
Ingredients, Formulation, and Dosages
Are important ingredients like caffeine, creatine, citrulline, citrulline malate, and beta-alanine included? Are there research-backed dosages of said ingredients to ensure you’re getting maximum potential benefits? Are there proprietary blends, where you can’t tell how much of each ingredient is used? Are there high levels of stimulants that have been shown to have detrimental effects?
To earn at least 4 out of 5 stars, all ingredients are present in research-backed dosages, and the label is transparent, with clear dosing of each ingredient and no proprietary blends.
Research-backed dosages:
- Caffeine: 200 milligrams
- Creatine: At least 3 grams (5 grams is the daily recommended dose, but not many pre-workouts contain this much)
- Citrulline: 3-6 grams
- Citrulline Malate: 6-8 grams
- Beta-Alanine: 4-6 grams
It’s important to note that while caffeine is a powerful tool, too much can be dangerous, according to Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM.
“The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers 400 milligrams (mg) of caffeine a day to be safe for most healthy adults,” says Dr. Dasgupta. “However, some people are more sensitive to the effects of caffeine than others. If you are sensitive to caffeine, you may experience side effects such as anxiety, insomnia, or headaches even at lower doses.”14
Flavors and Taste
This is subjective, but we base our ratings on the views of our testers, as well as what the general consensus is in online customer reviews. We took the individual flavor of our testing samples as well as the full range of available tastes into consideration.
We understand taste is subjective, but we asked our testers to rate products 3 out of 5 if the taste was good, but not great, and save 5 out of 5 scores for what they’d consider the most delicious pre-workout they’ve ever tasted.
In addition, also considered whether unflavored options were available.
Solubility
How well does this product dissolve in the suggested amount of liquid? Are there floaties? Is it grainy? Is it super thick or super thin? Does it separate after a few minutes?
To earn 5 out of 5 stars, a product should dissolve fully and barely separate after being left alone for a while.
Cost and Price Per Serving
The price per serving can range from $0.63 on the low end to upwards of $2.50 on the high end. The average formula we tested costs $1.51 per serving, which we used as our benchmark for an average cost.
Products that cost around $1.50 per serving earned 3 out of 5 stars, while products that cost $1 or less earned the full 5-out-of-5-star rating.
Customer Reviews
What do customers think of the product? Are reviews consistent? Does the company interact with customer reviews?
We looked at the average customer review score on the brand website, as well as retailers like Amazon, which may provide more unbiased reviews.
Value
If a pre-workout is expensive, is it at least packed with unique ingredients that you couldn’t find in cheaper pre-workouts? If not, you might as well buy a more affordable supplement.
We consider a pre-workout to have good value if it has high scores for the formulation, third-party testing, and price per serving.
Transparency and Third-Party Testing
Since dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA, having an independent third-party lab verify that what’s on the label is what’s in the pre-workout is super important, especially for athletes who have to take regular drug tests. This is particularly pivotal for pre-workouts, because overloading on stimulants can be dangerous.
Transparency also plays a part in this—does the company provide COAs, not use proprietary blends, and generally seem very upfront about what’s used in their pre-workout and why?
To achieve a 5-star rating, the company must be fully transparent, and the product must be third-party tested by NSF, Informed Choice/Sport, or the Banned Substance Control Group (BSCG).
Benefits of Pre-Workouts
“Pre-workout supplements are beneficial for various workouts, whether you’re into strength training, cardio, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), or team sports,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM.
Here are some reasons to consider trying a pre-workout before your next workout.
It Promotes Increased Energy
Pre-workouts are probably best known for their ability to support increased energy and focus during workouts. Caffeine is well-known for its ability to boost energy and endurance levels during intense workouts, and nitric oxide boosters (like citrulline and beetroot extract) can promote blood flow, which may result in more oxygen and nutrients being delivered to your muscles to maximize performance.13
It Improves Muscle Strength
Pre-workouts can enhance strength in several ways. For one, they can provide you with more energy, allowing you to hit your workouts harder and increase your training volume.
Perhaps the most essential ingredient for increasing strength is creatine. Creatine, which is present in some pre-workouts, aids in energy production during short, intense efforts and has been shown to increase strength when combined with resistance training in numerous research studies6.
RELATED: Does Pre-workout Help Build Muscle?
It Supports Enhanced Cognition
Ingredients like l-theanine, rhodiola rosea, and l-tyrosine can help you stay focused and motivated throughout your workout. Nootropics like these are typically used to enhance memory, attention, and concentration.17
It Can Combat Fatigue
One way to boost stamina during your workouts is to combat feelings of fatigue. Caffeine has been shown to stimulate the release of endorphins, which, in turn, can lower one’s perception of effort and muscle pain associated with exercise.13 Supplementation with beta-alanine has also been shown to increase intramuscular stores of carnosine. Carnosine works as an intracellular buffer to reduce the accumulation of hydrogen ions–ultimately delaying fatigue7.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Pre-Workouts
When you’re ready to purchase a pre-workout, keep these factors in mind.
Key Ingredients
When you’re on the search for a good pre-workout formula, make sure it contains a majority—if not all—of the common pre-workout ingredients below.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant that targets the central nervous system, helping to support increased mental alertness, while also reducing the perception of fatigue. Additionally, it can increase fat oxidation and spare muscle glycogen levels.8, 13
Creatine
Creatine is a naturally occurring substrate that aids in energy production. When taken as a dietary supplement, creatine has been shown to promote increased muscle strength, muscle size, athletic performance, and high-intensity exercise capacity4.
Creatine monohydrate is the simplest, effective form, though you may see other types of creatine, such as creatine hydrochloride or buffered creatine.18
Citrulline
L-citrulline is an amino acid that helps increase the body’s production of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide supports improved blood flow via vasodilation9 (widening of blood vessels).
Citrulline Malate
Citrulline malate is a compound that combines citrulline with malate—a substrate essential for the production of energy needed for muscle contractions. Citrulline malate has been shown to help delay muscle fatigue and increase oxygen delivery to muscles10.
Beta-Alanine
Beta-alanine is a non-essential amino acid that binds with histidine to form carnosine. In your muscles, carnosine acts as a hydrogen ion buffer to help delay fatigue and improve high-intensity exercise performance10.
Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)
Although the jury is still out on their effectiveness, most pre-workouts contain branched-chain amino acids, or BCAAs, to help delay muscle fatigue and promote muscle recovery.19
Research-Backed Dosages
Make sure key ingredients are present in research-backed dosages. There are countless research studies that pinpoint the minimal dose needed to experience energy- or strength-boosting effects from ingredients like beta-alanine and creatine, but here are a few you should know before you start shopping:
Research-backed doses of pre-workout ingredients:
- Caffeine: 200 milligrams
- Creatine: At least 3 grams (5 grams is the daily recommended dose, but not many pre-workouts contain this much)
- Citrulline: 3-6 grams
- Citrulline Malate: 6-8 grams
- Beta-Alanine: 4-6 grams
Lack of Proprietary Blends
These blends will make it difficult to know the exact dosages used. A detailed ingredient list that clearly states the dose of each ingredient will ensure you know exactly what you are consuming.
Third-Party Testing
This means that a company not affiliated with the supplement manufacturer evaluates the dietary supplement to ensure that what is printed on the label is actually inside the product.
If you’re an athlete, it’s critical that your pre-workout is free from any banned substances. Look for the Informed Sport, NSF, or Banned Substance Control Group (BSCG) logos on the product’s packaging to ensure the product has been batch-tested.
Some companies, such as Transparent Labs, may also provide regular Certificates of Analysis for their products. This allows you to see the exact testing date and results for each pre-workout.
FAQs About the Best Pre-Workouts
What is the best brand of pre-workout?
The best pre-workout brand depends on your training needs, physiology, and preferences. That said, a couple of top brands include Transparent Labs (which has several options, including a stim-free pre-workout) and Legion Athletics. Both provide solid formulations without filler ingredients.
Does pre-workout really help?
If a pre-workout has research-backed doses of ingredients proven to increase strength, focus, or energy, then yes, it can add a boost to your pre-workouts. It won’t be the be-all-end-all solution for all your training needs, but it absolutely helps.
What is the best thing to drink pre-workout?
The best thing to drink before a pre-workout is a supplement that has an effective dose of caffeine (around 200 mg), l-citrulline (3-6 g), beta-alanine (4-6 g), and other ingredients tied to increased strength, energy, and cognition. If you’re working out at night or don’t like caffeine, there are plenty of stim-free options available.
Is a pre-workout better than an energy drink?
Energy drinks and pre-workouts are slightly different. While energy drinks are typically designed to provide caffeine and mental focus, pre-workouts often have added ingredients specifically meant to enhance workouts and promote muscle growth. This can result in delayed muscular fatigue, improved blood flow, and more.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
References
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- Jagim, A. R., Harty, P. S., & Camic, C. L. (2019). Common Ingredient Profiles of Multi-Ingredient Pre-Workout Supplements. Nutrients, 11(2), 254. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11020254
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- Kreider, R. B., Kalman, D. S., Antonio, J., Ziegenfuss, T. N., Wildman, R., Collins, R., … Lopez, H. L. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-017-0173-z
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- Loureiro, L. M. R., Dos Santos Neto, E., Molina, G. E., Amato, A. A., Arruda, S. F., Reis, C. E. G., & da Costa, T. H. M. (2021). Coffee Increases Post-Exercise Muscle Glycogen Recovery in Endurance Athletes: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Nutrients, 13(10), 3335. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13103335
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