10 Best Pre-Workouts with Creatine for 2024

Our top choice for best overall pre-workout with creatine is Nutricost Pre-C. With micronized, third-party tested Creatine Monohydrate and all the other essential of a powerful pre-workout for as little as $.83 a serving, Nutricost is our clear winner for 2024.

In the dynamic world of fitness supplements, the quest for the perfect pre-workout blend is relentless. Among the myriad of ingredients that promise to supercharge your workouts, one stands out for its time-tested efficacy and scientific backing: creatine. 
A powerhouse in its own right, creatine’s role in pre-workout supplements is pivotal. It’s not just about adding an energy kick; it’s about fundamentally enhancing muscle endurance and performance. 
While many ingredients come and go, riding the waves of fitness trends, creatine has firmly anchored itself as a staple. 
The magic number? A robust 5 grams, recognized universally as the effective dose to reap its myriad benefits. But the creatine landscape isn’t one-dimensional. 
From creatine monohydrate, celebrated for its affordability and research-backed results, to the more soluble creatine hydrochloride, each variant offers unique advantages. As we delve deeper into the best pre-workouts with creatine, we’ll unravel the nuances of these types, guiding you to make an informed choice tailored to your fitness aspirations.

Our Picks for the 10 Best Pre-Workouts with Creatine in 2024

Nutricost Pre-C

  • Servings: 30
  • Additives: 3 grams: Creatine Monohydrate
  • Flavors: 3 Flavors
  • Price Per Serving: $0.83
  • Price: $24.94

Our Review of Nutricost Pre-C

Creatine, a compound pivotal for energy production during intense activities, is essential for Nutricost Pre-C’s formulation. Nutricost’s micronized creatine ensures enhanced solubility and absorption, maximizing benefits while minimizing digestive discomfort. Alongside creatine, the inclusion of ingredients like caffeine and beta-alanine in Nutricost Pre-C creates a synergistic effect, boosting energy for prolonged workouts.

Despite its premium composition, Nutricost Pre-C is remarkably affordable at $.83 per serving, offering a blend of quality and value unmatched in the fitness supplement market. Its superior mixability and taste profile further enhance the user experience, eliminating the common issues of lumpiness and chalky aftertaste found in many other supplements.

In the crowded landscape of pre-workout supplements, Nutricost Pre-C distinguishes itself with its precise focus on high-quality, micronized creatine. This dedication to excellence, combined with its cost-effectiveness and superior taste, positions it as the top choice for both seasoned athletes and fitness beginners.

  • Pro 1: Micronized creatine enhances solubility and absorption.
  • Pro 2: Synergistic effect of ingredients boosts energy.
  • Pro 3: Remarkably affordable at $.83 per serving.
  • Pro 4: Superior mixability and taste.
  • Con 1: Could Add More Flavors
  • Con 2: 3 grams is less than desire dose of creatine

C4 Dynasty Pre Workout

  • Servings: 20
  • Additives: 5 grams: Creatine Monohydrate + Creatine Nitrate + Creatine HCL
  • Flavors: 2 Flavors
  • Price Per Serving: $3.32
  • Price: $66.49

Our Review of C4 Dynasty Pre Workout

The C4 Dynasty MMXX Pre Workout Powder is a formidable entrant in the world of fitness supplements, and its comprehensive ingredient profile is a testament to its potency.

Of note is its tri-blend of Creatine Monohydrate, Creatine Nitrate, and Creatine HCL. The inclusion of a full 5 gram dose of creatine in the C4 Dynasty formula underscores its commitment to enhancing power and performance.

However, the C4 Dynasty doesn’t stop at creatine. It also includes a tri blend of Cituline, 350mg of caffeine for fast energy, and a massive 6.4 gram dose of beta alanine for massive pumps.

With this high end blend of ingredients comes a high end sticker price. You can expect to pay well over $60 for a tub of C4 Dynasty. However, while C4 Dynasty shines in terms of ingredient potency, there are other options in the market that offer a solid pre-workouts for much less money. But if you want the most complete pre workout on the market and money is no object, C4 Dynasty MMXX could be for you.

  • Pro 1: Tri-blend of Creatine for enhanced power.
  • Pro 2: Comprehensive ingredient profile.
  • Pro 3: 6.4 gram dose of beta alanine for pumps.
  • Con 1: High price tag over $60.

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre Workout Advanced

  • Servings: 20
  • Additives: 5 grams: Creatine Monohydrate
  • Flavors: 7 Flavors
  • Price Per Serving: $1.82
  • Price: $36.33

Our Review of Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre Workout Advanced

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout Advanced has carved a niche for itself in the competitive fitness supplement landscape. This meticulously formulated product boasts a powerful blend of ingredients: 5 grams of Creatine Monohydrate, 300mg of caffeine sharpens focus, beta-alanine amplifies endurance, and L-Citrulline Malate enhances muscle blood flow. The synergy of these components promises and delivers a transformative workout experience, elevating stamina, muscle pump, and reducing fatigue.

Beyond its potent composition, the pre-workout doesn’t compromise on the sensory experience. Users can expect a smooth, clump-free mix that’s a pleasure to drink, available in a range of impeccable flavors. This attention to taste and mixability ensures that the pre-workout ritual is as enjoyable as the workout itself.

While many supplements come with a hefty price tag, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout Advanced offers genuine value. Its competitive pricing, combined with its top-tier formulation, positions it as a must-have for fitness enthusiasts, from seasoned athletes to beginners.

  • Pro 1: Powerful blend of ingredients.
  • Pro 2: Smooth, clump-free mix with great flavors.
  • Pro 3: Competitive pricing for top-tier formulation.

Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite Pre Workout

  • Servings: 20
  • Additives: 5 grams: Creatine Monohydrate + Creatine Nitrate
  • Flavors: 5 Flavors
  • Price Per Serving: $2.16
  • Price: $43.18

Our Review of Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite Pre Workout

In the competitive realm of fitness supplements, Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite Pre Workout distinguishes itself as a paragon of excellence. This isn’t merely another pre-workout; it’s a meticulously crafted formula designed to revolutionize workout experiences. Central to its potency is the inclusion of 5 grams of creatine, including 2 grams of creatine nitrate, known for its superior solubility and absorption rates. This ensures muscles receive creatine in its most efficient form, amplifying the benefits of each training session.

Beyond creatine, Kaged’s Pre-Kaged Elite boasts a holistic blend of ingredients, from nitric oxide precursors ensuring optimal muscle blood flow to natural caffeine for sustained energy. Essential BCAAs are seamlessly integrated, accelerating recovery and minimizing post-workout muscle soreness. This comprehensive approach to fitness, combined with a commitment to scientific backing, sets the product apart in a crowded market.

In terms of value, Kaged’s Pre-Kaged Elite stands as a testament to quality over mere marketing hype. While it commands a premium, the investment is justified by its robust formula, the inclusion of high-grade creatine nitrate, and the tangible results it consistently delivers. Whether you’re an elite athlete or embarking on a fitness journey, this pre-workout promises to elevate every performance, making each session surpass the last.

  • Pro 1: Inclusion of 2 grams of creatine nitrate.
  • Pro 2: Comprehensive blend of ingredients.
  • Pro 3: Commitment to scientific backing.
  • Con 1: Premium price.

Naked Energy Stim Free Pre Workout

  • Servings: 50
  • Additives: 1 gram: Creatine Monohydrate
  • Flavors: 4 Flavors
  • Price Per Serving: $0.85
  • Price: $42.74

Our Review of Naked Energy Stim Free Pre Workout

In the saturated market of fitness supplements, Naked Energy Stim Free Pre Workout carves out a unique niche. This product, devoid of the typical stimulants found in many counterparts, offers a potent performance boost, ensuring users can push their limits without the jitters often associated with caffeine.

The secret lies in its meticulously crafted formula. A transparent blend of amino acids, vitamins, creatine monohydrate, and natural energy sources ensures that while the immediate ‘kick’ of a stimulant might be absent, the muscles are primed for action. Enhanced blood flow, reduced muscle fatigue, and a consistent energy level are the hallmarks of this product, making it a favorite among those who prioritize both efficacy and well-being.

Beyond its ingredient list, the user experience with Naked Energy is unparalleled. Superior solubility ensures a smooth drink, and the natural taste is a refreshing departure from the artificially sweetened alternatives. As the fitness community becomes increasingly discerning, Naked Energy’s commitment to clean, effective ingredients solidifies its position as a market leader.

  • Pro 1: No stimulants, avoiding jitters.
  • Pro 2: Transparent blend of amino acids and vitamins.
  • Pro 3: Superior solubility and natural taste.
  • Con 1: Absence of immediate ‘kick’ of a stimulant.
  • Con 2: Can leave a bitter after taste

NutraBio PRE Workout

  • Servings: 20
  • Additives: 3.5 grams: Creatine Monohydrate + Magnesium Creatine Chelate
  • Flavors: 7 Flavors
  • Price Per Serving: $2.37
  • Price: $47.49

Our Review of NutraBio PRE Workout

NutraBio PRE Workout stands as a testament to precision formulation in the fitness supplement industry. This product, renowned for its transparent ingredient list, offers athletes and fitness enthusiasts a potent blend to supercharge their workouts. Central to its efficacy is the inclusion of creatine monohydrate and magnesium creatine chelate, two compounds celebrated for their muscle-enhancing properties.

The synergy between creatine monohydrate and magnesium creatine chelate is where NutraBio’s PRE Workout truly shines. While creatine monohydrate is revered for its proven track record in boosting muscle energy and performance, the addition of magnesium creatine chelate ensures enhanced absorption and reduced digestive discomfort, often associated with creatine supplements. This dual creatine approach ensures users benefit from rapid energy replenishment during high-intensity activities.

In a market flooded with pre-workout options, NutraBio’s commitment to quality and its strategic use of both creatine monohydrate and magnesium creatine chelate sets it apart. Users can expect not only amplified strength and endurance but also the peace of mind that comes from consuming a product that prioritizes both performance and well-being.

  • Pro 1: Transparent ingredient list.
  • Pro 2: Dual creatine approach for rapid energy.
  • Pro 3: Prioritizes both performance and well-being.
  • Con 1: Not great tasting

PRE JYM

  • Servings: 30
  • Additives: 2 grams: Creatine HCL
  • Flavors: 8 Flavors
  • Price Per Serving: $1.77
  • Price: $52.99

Our Review of PRE JYM

PRE JYM stands as a formidable contender in the crowded pre-workout supplement arena. Its comprehensive formula is designed to optimize workouts, but what truly sets it apart is the inclusion of 2 grams of creatine HCL. This specific form of creatine is known for its superior solubility and absorption, ensuring that muscles receive an efficient dose for enhanced performance.

The benefits of creatine HCL don’t stop at muscle energy. Its presence in PRE JYM supports increased strength, greater training endurance, and faster recovery. This means users can push harder during workouts and bounce back more rapidly, maximizing the gains from each training session.

In a market saturated with generic formulations, PRE JYM’s commitment to quality and its emphasis on creatine HCL’s optimal dosage underscores its dedication to user performance and results. This product isn’t just about the hype; it’s grounded in science and proven outcomes.

  • Pro 1: Inclusion of 2 grams of creatine HCL.
  • Pro 2: Supports increased strength, endurance, and recovery.
  • Pro 3: Grounded in science and proven outcomes.
  • Con 1: Not a good taste

Ryse Godzilla Pre Workout

  • Servings: 40
  • Additives: 2.5 grams: Creatine Monohydrate
  • Flavors: 3 Flavors
  • Price Per Serving: $1.42
  • Price: $56.99

Our Review of Ryse Godzilla Pre Workout

Ryse Godzilla Pre Workout stands as a formidable contender in the fitness supplement arena. Designed for those seeking an edge in their training, this product promises to amplify workouts, ensuring users get the most out of every session. Central to its efficacy is the inclusion of 2.5 grams of creatine monohydrate, a proven ingredient renowned for enhancing muscle energy, improving performance, and accelerating recovery.

The choice of creatine monohydrate in the formula is strategic. This form of creatine, backed by extensive research, is known for its rapid absorption and effectiveness. At a dose of 2.5 grams, Ryse Godzilla strikes a balance, offering the benefits of creatine without overloading the system, making it suitable for both seasoned athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.

Beyond creatine, Ryse Godzilla Pre Workout boasts a blend of ingredients that work synergistically to enhance focus, increase endurance, and boost energy levels. But it’s the thoughtful inclusion of creatine monohydrate that sets it apart, ensuring users not only feel an immediate boost but also benefit from sustained muscle performance and recovery.

  • Pro 1: 2.5 grams of creatine monohydrate for rapid absorption.
  • Pro 2: Blend enhances focus, endurance, and energy.
  • Con 1: Does not have viable creatine dosing
  • Con 2: Taste is sour

Gorilla Mode Pre Workout

  • Servings: 40
  • Additives: 2.5 grams: Creatine Monohydrate
  • Flavors: 9 Flavors
  • Price Per Serving: $1.25
  • Price: $49.99

Our Review of Gorilla Mode Pre Workout

Gorilla Mode Pre Workout has swiftly ascended the ranks in the fitness supplement domain, distinguishing itself with a potent and thoughtfully curated formula. Central to its efficacy is the inclusion of 2.5 grams of creatine monohydrate, a dosage that strikes the perfect balance between performance enhancement and digestibility, ensuring users experience the full spectrum of creatine’s muscle-boosting benefits without any gastrointestinal discomfort.

The product’s comprehensive blend goes beyond just creatine. It synergistically combines other ingredients to amplify energy, focus, and endurance, making every workout session more productive. However, it’s the creatine monohydrate that stands out, a testament to Gorilla Mode’s commitment to delivering both immediate results and long-term muscle health.

In a market flooded with pre-workouts, Gorilla Mode’s emphasis on the proven power of creatine monohydrate sets it apart. For those seeking a reliable boost without the unnecessary frills, this product emerges as a top contender, promising consistent performance and results that speak for themselves.

  • Pro 1: 2.5 grams of creatine monohydrate for muscle-boosting.
  • Pro 2: Comprehensive blend amplifies energy, focus, and endurance.
  • Con 1: Does not have viable creatine dosing

4 Gauge Explosive Pre Workout

  • Servings: 30
  • Additives: 1 gram: Creatine Monohydrate
  • Flavors: 1 Flavor
  • Price Per Serving: $1.50
  • Price: $44.95

Our Review of 4 Gauge Explosive Pre Workout

4 Gauge Explosive Pre Workout has swiftly ascended the ranks in the fitness supplement domain, renowned for its precision-engineered formula tailored for those seeking an explosive boost to their training sessions. At its core, the product’s composition is noteworthy, especially its decision to incorporate a modest 1 gram of creatine monohydrate. While many competitors flood their blends with higher creatine dosages, 4 Gauge’s restrained approach ensures users receive the muscle endurance benefits without the risk of bloating or water retention.

The inclusion of just 1 gram of creatine monohydrate is a strategic move. It provides the necessary ATP energy boost for short, high-intensity workouts while sidestepping potential side effects that higher doses might induce. This makes 4 Gauge an ideal choice for those who want the benefits of creatine but in a more controlled and balanced measure.

In conclusion, 4 Gauge Explosive Pre Workout stands out not just for what it includes, but also for its measured restraint. Its calibrated approach to creatine monohydrate dosage ensures users can push their limits in the gym, experiencing enhanced performance without the typical concerns associated with larger creatine quantities. This product is a testament to the adage that sometimes, less truly is more.

  • Pro 1: 1 gram of creatine monohydrate avoids bloating.
  • Pro 2: Provides ATP energy boost for short workouts.
  • Con 1: Does not have viable creatine dosing
  • Con 2: Could improve taste

A Comparison of the Best Creatine Supplements

Here’s a quick look at how our top picks compare:

 Price Per ServingFlavorsCreatine DosageType of Creatine
Nutricost Pre-C$0.833 Flavors3 gramsCreatine Monohydrate
C4 Dynasty Pre Workout$3.322 Flavors5 gramsCreatine Monohydrate + Creatine Nitrate + Creatine HCL
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre Workout Advanced$1.827 Flavors5 gramsCreatine Monohydrate
Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite Pre Workout$2.165 Flavors5 gramsCreatine Monohydrate + Creatine Nitrate
Naked Energy Stim Free Pre Workout$0.854 Flavors1 gramCreatine Monohydrate
NutraBio PRE Workout $2.377 Flavors3.5 gramsMonohydrate + Magnesium Creatine Chelate
PRE JYM$1.778 Flavors2 gramsCreatine HCL
Ryse Godzilla Pre Workout$1.423 Flavors2.5 gramsCreatine Monohydrate
Gorilla Mode Pre Workout$1.259 Flavors2.5 gramsCreatine Monohydrate
4 Gauge Explosive Pre Workout$1.501 Flavor1 gramCreatine Monohydrate

How we chose our best creatine supplements

Rest assured, our selection of top-tier creatine supplements didn’t happen by chance. We’ve meticulously curated this list based on a set of non-negotiable criteria:

Quality: Only the very best brands made the cut—those crafted from premium ingredients and devoid of unnecessary additives, fillers, or synthetic nonsense.

Transparency: We’ve zeroed in on products that not only talk the talk but walk the walk, adhering to FDA regulations and manufactured in facilities that meet the gold standard of CGMPs.

Credibility: Each product on this list comes from a brand that’s medically vetted and ethically sound, meeting the highest industry standards. 

Testing: All of these products have been third-party verified for purity and safety. Some even come with a sport-certified seal of approval. No compromises here.

Dose: Every product offers a dosage that’s backed by the latest scientific research, specifically tailored for athletic performance.

Price: Whether you’re on a tight budget or ready to splurge, we’ve got options that won’t break the bank.

Reviews: Finally, we paid close attention to posted reviews of all these products removing any that failed to average 4 Stars for their reviews. 

So go ahead, make your pick. We’ve done the heavy lifting so you can focus on doing yours.

 

The Benefits of Creatine

Creatine is more than just a regular supplement. It’s backed by strong research, showing it can boost exercise and help muscles grow.

Powering Workouts

During exercise, our body uses ATP as its main energy source. Creatine helps increase the amount of ATP, giving you more energy for your workouts. This means you can exercise harder and longer. Studies show creatine is safe and can improve performance in activities like running fast or lifting heavy weights.

Increasing Strength

Because of its effect on ATP, creatine can increase your strength by 5 to 15 percent. This helps you do more reps and harder exercises like bench presses or jumps.

Helping Muscles Grow

Creatine doesn’t just help with performance. It also helps muscles grow. The more you can exercise with creatine, the bigger your muscles can get. Studies also link creatine to more muscle mass.

Other Benefits of Creatine

Creatine does more than help with exercise. It can also help the body in other ways. It might protect against diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Some research even suggests it could help with depression and support kidney health. So, creatine is not just for the gym. It’s a powerful supplement for overall health.

 

What Is Creatine and How Does It Work?

Creatine is a powerful supplement designed to enhance muscle performance. When introduced to the body, it actively draws water into the muscles, providing them with the hydration they need to function optimally during workouts. This process not only strengthens the muscles but also ensures they have the endurance to withstand rigorous exercise routines. 

Energy Booster

Additionally, creatine serves as a significant energy booster, enhancing the body’s natural energy reserves and ensuring you can push your limits during each workout session.

It Might Not Be for You

It’s worth noting that a small percentage of individuals might not experience the typical benefits of creatine. But given its affordability, it’s a low-risk investment in potentially elevating your fitness game.

Creatine and Coffee? 

A few practical tips for those considering adding creatine to their regimen: Recent studies have debunked the myth about the adverse effects of mixing creatine with caffeine. So, if you’re inclined to have a coffee before your workout, you can safely combine it with your creatine dose. 

How Much? How Often?

When it comes to dosage, consistency is key. Instead of the once-popular “loading” method, a daily intake of 5 to 10 grams is recommended for sustained benefits. Ensure you’re well-hydrated when taking creatine to prevent muscle cramps. 

When Should You Take It? 

And while creatine can be taken pre-workout, some evidence suggests post-workout might be even more beneficial. Whichever you choose, regular and consistent use will help you achieve the best results.

Before You Buy: How To Choose the Best Creatine

If you’re new to creatine or have used it before, there’s always something new to learn about this strong supplement. Let’s dive deep and understand it better.

Choosing the right creatine supplement can be like finding the best stall in a busy market. 

The Price Is Right

You have to think about the price, how much to take, the kind of creatine, and its mix. When talking about price, some are cheap, like $0.21, and some are expensive, like $1.63 for each serving. The price can change based on what’s in it, how much to take, and the kind of creatine. A good tip is to look at creatine monohydrate. It’s known to work well and doesn’t cost much. 

How Big Are the Doses?

When deciding how much to take, some people like to take a lot at first and then less after. But, most brands suggest taking 5 grams every day. If you have a lot of muscles, you might want to take up to 10 grams to get the best results.

Types of Creatine

There are many kinds of creatine. Creatine monohydrate is popular because it’s affordable and well-studied. If you want a creatine that mixes well in drinks, micronized creatine is good. 

If regular creatine upsets your stomach, try buffered kinds or ones with changed pH, like kre-alkalyn. They’re easier on the stomach. If you’re looking to lose fat and get stronger, creatine HMB might be for you. Remember to pick what fits your goals and feels right. 

Forms of Creatine

When picking a form of creatine, think about if you like pills or powder. If you don’t like swallowing pills, powder might be better. Some people like to mix creatine with other things like beta-alanine. You can get creatine that has a taste or no taste. Think about what you want, like pure creatine or one mixed with other things to boost your workout.

The Bottom Line on Creatine

Venture into the world of creatine, and you’ll swiftly discern that it’s more than just another component in the supplement lineup; it’s a bona fide game-changer in athletic performance.

By supercharging your muscles with enhanced hydration, creatine equips you with the prowess to transcend your athletic thresholds.

Whether your allegiance lies with the time-tested creatine monohydrate, the easily assimilated hydrochloride, or a dynamic concoction with added benefits, the outcome remains consistent: an undeniable surge in performance.

Your Creatine FAQs

Think of creatine as your secret weapon for strength workouts. It’s like having a pre-workout boost, but with added perks.

Not only does it enhance power output, but for those who aren’t big on meat, it can sharpen your cognition.

And let’s not forget the visual appeal: creatine pulls water into your muscles, giving them that fuller, more defined look.

Most folks sail smoothly with daily creatine. But, as with any supplement, it’s wise to have a chat with your healthcare expert before diving in.

Absolutely! Blend your creatine with protein shakes or smoothies for a tastier experience.

It’s a popular choice, especially with unflavored variants.

Creatine isn’t about instant gratification. It’s about enhancing your explosive phosphocreatine system, which, over time, can lead to increased muscle mass and strength.

You might spot some water retention in your muscles early on, but the real gains? They’ll take a bit longer, so stay committed.

Creatine’s versatility reflects in its price range. Our list showcases options from a mere $0.39 to a premium $2.50 per serving. On average, you’re looking at $1.11 per serving. Remember, some of these aren’t just pure creatine, so factor in those added ingredients when budgeting.

Creatine monohydrate takes the crown. Its extensive research backing leaves other types in the dust. However, if monohydrate upsets your stomach, alternatives like hydrochloride might be gentler.

Our top pick? Nutricost Micronized Creatine Monohydrate. It’s straightforward pure Creatine, but it’s lab tested and mixes very well in just about everything. Plus, it’s dirt cheap at only $.21 a serving.

Useful supplement shopping guides

Check out these two articles to help make supplement shopping a breeze:

Last medically reviewed on July 12, 2023

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