Whether you are just starting on creatine or you are already a user comparing top creatine brands, this guide is for you. We will review the best cre͏atine and cover everything you need to know about creatine to get started. Think dosage, timing, prices, and so much more!
Best Cre͏atine in 2025: Quick Overview
Crazy Nutrition Creatine Ultimate CRN-5 – Best creatine monohydrate overall
Kion Creatine – Best creatine for purity
Transparent Labs Creatine HMB – Best creatine with no bloating
Xwerks Lift – Best creatine for weight gain
Natural Stacks Creatine+ – Best creatine for men and women on the go
Onnit Creatine Monohydrate – Best creatine for bulking
Mindbodygreen Creatine+ – Best creatine monohydrate for mental cognizance
Naked Creatine Monohydrate Powder – Best creatine for beginners
Sculpt Nation Creatine Fruit Punch – Best creatine supplement guarantee
What Is Creatine?
Creatine is a substance naturally produced in the human body. Most creatine goes to your skeletal muscles, where it is then blended with phosphoric acid to produce phosphocreatine.
Phosphocreatine then helps make ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which provides energy when you exercise. Approximately half of your body’s creatine supply is made by the liver, pancreas, and kidneys, while the rest comes from protein-rich foods like red meat, seafood, and animal milk.
Types of Creatine Supplements
There are many types of creatine supplements available, each with unique properties and benefits. We break down the most common types:
Creatine Monohydrate
This is the most common and dependable creatine supplement. It’s made from one water molecule and one creatine molecule and is the form most used in most research studies.
Creatine Hydrochloride
Some believe this form of creatine is more soluble in water. Theoretically, it can be taken at lower doses than the monohydrate form, resulting in fewer digestive difficulties.
Buffered Creatine
Some manufacturers add an alkaline powder as a buffering agent to reduce the potential digestive difficulties that result from taking creatine.
Micronized Creatine
This type of creatine is mechanically processed or micronized to increase water solubility and aid absorption.
Creatine Ethyl Ester
This type of creatine has a slightly better absorption rate than the monohydrate form. However, a head-to-head study proved otherwise, and it’s rarely recommended for use.
Creatine Nitrate
Because of the added nitrate, creatine monohydrate has a slightly better absorption rate (100% to 98%) than creatine monohydrate. Some feel this form of creatine gives the muscles a better pump of energy.
Best Creatine for 2025 Reviewed in Details
Creatine is produced by the body naturally to enhance energy production for quick bursts of speed and strength. If you need additional power to meet your exercise goals, you can eat a ton of creatine-supporting foods like beef or salmon or use a creatine supplement like most gym enthusiasts.
In this section, you will find detailed cre͏atine supplement reviews and all the information you need to make an informed decision about the right creatine supplement for your needs.
1. Crazy Nutrition Creatine Ultimate CRN-5 – Best Cre͏atine Monohydrate Overall
Pros
Added electrolytes
Easy to digest
No GMO ingredients
Suitable for vegans/vegetarians
Cons
Some reports of issues with delivery and customer service
Ingredients
Sodium as Tri-Sodium Citrate
Potassium as Tri-Potassium Citrate
Magnesium as Aquamin MG
Calcium as Aquamin AG
Creatine Monohydrate
Dosage
1 scoop (10 grams) in 8–12 oz. of water or a smoothie
Use it 30 minutes before your workout
Pricing
$44.99 for a one-time purchase (13.76 oz.)
Subscribers save 30%
Free delivery on orders over $60
Available in Lemon & Lime or Orange & Mango flavors
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Who Is CRN-5 Best For?
If you’re vegan or vegetarian, each serving provides 5000 mg of Creatine protein from non-animal sources. With excellent reviews online, Crazy Nutrition’s CRN-5 formula claims to be sourced from 100% clean ingredients.
Who Should Avoid CRN-5?
People with hypertension should steer clear of this supplement as it contains sodium, which could raise blood pressure levels.
User Reviews
Crazy Nutrition Creatine Ultimate CRN-5 has received positive feedback for its effectiveness. One user on the official site said that it delivered the best results they’d experienced with creatine. Another reviewer highlighted its great taste and easy mixability, making it enjoyable to use daily. However, another user pointed out issues with the company’s delivery and customer service [1].
2. Kion Creatine – Best Cre͏atine for Purity
Pros
Patented Creapure formula
95% absorption rate
100% plant-based
Tasteless for easy blending
Cons
May cause water retention
Ingredients
Kion Creatine contains Creapure, a trademarked formula with a 99.99% purity rating. However, it may contain other ingredients that certain groups may be allergic to, including gluten and soy.
Dosage
1 scoop (5 grams) daily in 8 oz. of water
Best used either in the morning or before or after exercise
Pricing
$17.99 for a single purchase (5.29 oz.)
Subscribers save 20%
Compare with the official website
Who Is Kion Creatine Best For?
Kion Creatine is the best cre͏atine for performance athletes, vegans, vegetarians, and even older adults. It may also help improve one’s functional memory and intelligence and also combat fatigue and muscle loss in older adults.
Who Should Avoid Kion Creatine?
Those with a history of kidney or gastrointestinal issues should consult their doctor first.
User Reviews
Kion Creatine generally receives a lot of positive feedback, with one user on the official site noting noticeable improvements in muscle retention after a month of use, praising the product’s quality, and planning to repurchase. However, another user shared that they hadn’t noticed significant changes even after using it for a couple of weeks straight [2].
3. Transparent Labs Creatine HMB – Best Cre͏atine With No Bloating
Pros
Zero artificial additives
Gluten free and non-GMO
Contains vitamin D3
3rd party tested
Cons
Subscribers only save 10%
Ingredients
Vitamin D3 (as Cholecalciferol)
Creatine Monohydrate
B-Hydroxy B-Methylbutyrate (as MyHMB)
BioPerine (Black Pepper Extract)
Dosage
1 scoop (7 grams) in 10-12 oz. of water
Take 30 minutes after your workout or in the morning on non-workout days
Pricing
$49.99 single purchase (210 grams)
Subscribers save 10%
Compare with the official website
Who Is Creatine HMB Best For?
For those wanting to perform better, build leaner muscle, and recover quickly, this supplement has a unique synergistic formula that is easily absorbable, allowing you to focus on the gym.
Who Should Avoid Creatine HMB?
If you have a nut allergy, be cautious—Transparent Labs’ facility also processes nuts, which could lead to cross-contamination.
User Reviews
Many users appreciate the combination of creatine with HMB, with one reviewer calling it the best cre͏atine for muscl͏e growth they’ve tried, noting great taste, effectiveness, and significant muscle gains after use. The HMB addition also saves on needing separate supplements. That said, another user had issues with customer support, facing unresponsive communication and an unwanted charge [3].
4. Xwerks Lift – Best Cre͏atine for Weight Gain
Pros
Mixes instantly
Research-backed
30-day guarantee
Economical 80-serving package
Cons
Has only 1 ingredient
Ingredients
Creatine Monohydrate
Dosage
1 scoop (5 grams) once a day
Pricing
Single purchase $49.00 (14.1 oz)
Subscribers save 5%
Compare with the official website
Who Is Xwerks Lift Best For?
Made from pure micronized creatine monohydrate, Lift is one of the best cre͏atine supplements for those wanting to bulk up or enhance strength. If you’re looking for workout rocket fuel for solid weight gain, Xwerks Lift is easily digested and a real money saver with 80 servings per bag.
Who Should Avoid Xwerks Lift?
If you’re after a creatine supplement with a more comprehensive ingredient profile, this one might not be for you. CN 5 Is among the best cre͏atine supplements with added electrolytes and multiple forms of creatine you can try instead.
User Reviews
Users on the official website mostly leave positive feedback about the supplement; for example, Mark appreciated the generous quantity for the price and its ease of mixing with protein or a pre-workout. Another user, Philip, noted that while it meets his expectations, it can leave a small amount of powder if not thoroughly mixed [4].
5. Natural Stacks Creatine+ – Best Cre͏atine for Women and Men on the Go
Pros
Added Fenugreek
Himalayan Pink Salt for absorption
Easy-to-take capsules
All-natural ingredients
Cons
It may cause diarrhea and nausea for some
Ingredients
Himalayan Pink Salt
Fenugreek Extract
Creatine Monohydrate
Sodium (from Himalayan Pink Salt)
Dosage
4 capsules daily
Pricing
Single purchase (120 capsules) $23.96
Subscribers save 20% plus free shipping
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Who Is Natural Stacks Creatine+ Best For?
If you’re already fitting a workout into a busy schedule, Natural Stacks Creatine caps are the best cre͏atine supplements. This creatine brand is a highly absorbable formula and does not have the chalky residue of most creatine powders if that’s a turn-off for you.
Who Should Avoid Natural Stacks Creatine?
It contains fenugreek, which can lower blood sugar levels and might interact with diabetes medications.
User Reviews
Natural Stacks Creatine generally has positive feedback on the official site. One user, Garrett, shared that taking it before or after workouts led to noticeable energy boosts and significant strength gains [5]. On the downside, another user on TrustPilot reported delivery issues, stating that the product was never received and expressing frustration with the company’s lack of response [6].
6. Onnit Creatine Monohydrate – Best Cre͏atine for Bulking
Pros
First-time subscribers get 25% off
Aids changes in body composition
Promotes strength and power
Only pure Creatine
Cons
Subscriber deal drops from 25% to 15% with second order
Ingredients
Creatine Monohydrate
Dosage
2 scoops (5 grams) mixed with 8 oz. of water or any drink each day
Pricing
A one-time purchase is $14.99 (5.29 oz)
Subscribers save an initial 25%, then 15% after
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Who Is Onnit Creatine Best For?
Onnit Creatine is for those looking to push the boundaries from lifting to sprinting, jumping, and martial arts training. If you like to keep it simple, Onnit’s no-frills creatine will get you there and potentially make you stronger.
Who Should Avoid Onnit Creatine?
If you’re on prescription meds or have any health issues, contact your doctor first.
User Reviews
One user shared that after 2 weeks of using the supplement, they noticed a real difference, especially when mixing it with their pre-workout for an added boost and enhanced endurance and performance. Meanwhile, another user was of the opinion that the creatine doesn’t fully dissolve in water, requiring a quick spin to drink it without leftover sludge [7].
7. Mindbodygreen Creatine+ – Best Cre͏atine Monohydrate for Mental Cognizance
Pros
Gluten, dairy, soy-free
Added Taurine for extra support
Research-backed with over 60 studies
3rd party tested
Cons
A bit pricey
Ingredients
Creatine Monohydrate
Taurine
Dosage
1 scoop (7.35 g) daily
Pricing
A one-time purchase is $66.00 (15.5 oz)
Subscribers save 27% bi-monthly, 33% bi-annually, and 44% annually
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Who Is Creatine+ with Taurine Best For?
Anyone wanting to keep their energy stores high and stay mentally sharp with age may benefit from this supplement. Besides being excellent muscle-building fuel, this research-backed creatine mix also adds Taurine, an amino acid brain nutrient that can decline with age.
Who Should Avoid Creatine+ with Taurine?
People with kidney issues should steer clear or try other creatine supplements. Creatine+ contains taurine, which can be challenging for those with compromised kidney function to process effectively.
User Reviews
A reviewer on the official website shared that they noticed significant cognitive benefits, like improved focus and clarity, alongside muscle gains when they took it daily. They felt that it helped with brain fog. On the other hand, others didn’t experience any noticeable effects, with one user emphasizing that the results may vary from person to person [8].
8. Naked Creatine Monohydrate Powder – Best Cre͏atine for Beginners
Pros
Only pure Creatine Monohydrate
Doesn’t have any additive
No heavy metals
Suitable for vegans
Cons
Loading phase recommended
Ingredients
Pure Micronized Creatine Monohydrate
Dosage
A 5 g scoop per day with 14-16 oz. of water
Pricing
Single purchase is $35.99 (2.2 lbs.)
Subscribers save 20%
Compare with the official website
Who Is Naked Creatine Best For?
Anyone wanting to improve strength, raise performance, and recover quickly may want to try Naked Creatine. And if you think less is more, Naked Creatine may best define that philosophy. Nothing but pure micronized creatine that’s easy to dissolve; it’s also free of additives or heavy metals.
Who Should Avoid Naked Creatine?
If you’re already taking a pre-workout, it’s best to avoid combining it with this supplement, as the mix can lead to a lower need for water intake than usual and may risk dehydration.
User Reviews
Louis, a happy customer of Naked Creatine Monohydrate, highlighted how well it mixes with water and appreciates its neutral taste, noting that it has kept him feeling great over months of use. Another user, Johnnie, echoed the quality of the creatine itself but wished for a better scooper [9].
9. Sculpt Nation Creatine Fruit Punch – Best Cre͏atine Supplement Guarantee
Pros
Maximizes ATP synthesis
100% money-back guarantee
All natural ingredients
One-time purchase discounts
Cons
No feedback on flavor
Ingredients
Creatine Monohydrate
Citric Acid
Natural Fruit Punch Flavor
Beetroot Juice
Sucralose
Dosage
1 scoop (7 grams) daily
Pricing
1 bottle $37.00 (save 24%)
3 bottles $99.00 (save 32%)
6 bottles $183.00 (save 37%)
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Who Is Sculpt Nation Creatine Fruit Punch Best For?
Any serious exercise enthusiast who wants the most out of their gym experience and overall fitness. If you want the best cre͏atine for muscl͏e growth that’ll deliver what it promises and a lifetime 100% money-back guarantee to ensure it, check out Sculpt Nation’s creatine punch.
Who Should Avoid Sculpt Nation Creatine Fruit Punch?
People with acid reflux might want to try other creatine supplements, as Sculpt Nation Creatine Fruit Punch contains citric acid, which can aggravate symptoms and lead to discomfort.
User Reviews
Sculpt Nation Creatine Fruit Punch has mixed reactions from users. Lorenda on Amazon found the product to be of high quality and effective, recommending it enthusiastically [10]. Vishal, however, had a different experience, describing the taste as unpleasant and questioning the supplement’s freshness at the time of delivery [11].
How to Choose the Best Cre͏atine Supplement for You
Choosing the best cre͏atine for muscl͏e growth depends on several factors such as your goals, preferences, budget, and more. Here are some key considerations:
Fitness Goals
Determining your fitness priorities and desired body results can help you decide on the best cre͏atine for muscl͏e growth or cutting. The best cre͏atine for cutting or bulking works best with regular physical activity.
Creatine Form
Most of the best cre͏atine supplements come in either powder or pills. Pills may be more convenient, and the doses will be more consistent.
Budget and Serving Size
Because it’s recommended to take creatine every day for the maximum effects, the cost per serving and whether it’s cheaper to make a single purchase or subscribe are important considerations. The best affordable creatine supplements on our list are from top creatine brands like Kion and Onnit.
Brand Reputation
What certifications, awards, and recommendations has a brand received so you know you’re purchasing a proven product? This is also crucial if you’re looking for where to buy the best cre͏atine supplements, as certifications and awards can indicate product quality and safety.
Quality
Ensure that you pick a brand whose ingredients have been tested by a third party for purity and consistency.
Common Myths and Misconceptions About Creatine
Creatine is often misunderstood, with several myths surrounding its use:
A common one is that it’s only for bodybuilders or athletes when, in fact, creatine benefits anyone looking to improve energy levels, muscle recovery, and overall performance.
Some also believe that creatine leads to excessive water retention or bloating, but most users experience increased muscle mass without these effects.
Overall, creatine is a well-researched supplement with proven benefits and minimal risks when used correctly. Many gym enthusiasts choose it as their favorite legal steroid alternative. To learn more about creatine, visit reputable medical websites like the National Institute of Health.
Potential Benefits of Creatine Supp͏lements
The best cre͏atine supplements have been shown to offer several potential benefits, particularly for CrossFit athletes and individuals looking to increase muscle mass and strength. Some of the key benefits include:
Increased Muscle Mass and Growth
Studies show creatine can alter cellular pathways, leading to muscl͏e growth by boosting proteins that increase muscle fibers. It can also raise levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 to enlarge muscle mass [12]. Creatine is often taken alongside other supplements and high-protein foods for muscle-building to achieve the best results.
Improved Performance
A direct link has been shown between creatine supplementation and increased ATP production for better high-intensity performance [13].
Enhanced Recovery
Creatine has also been shown to aid recovery after a workout by rejuvenating damaged muscles [14].
Boosted Energy
Creatine stores help to produce more ATP, which results in increased energy during exercise [15].
Supported Brain Health
Studies show that the creatine/ATP connection has a direct role in brain function and brain health overall [16].
How to Take Creatine to Get the Best Results
In theory, the best time to take creatine for results is right around your workout to aid absorption, performance, and recovery.
However, it is a common question in fitness communities like r/Supp͏lements and r/Creatine whether there is such a thing as the best timing and dosage for taking creatine. From what users have discussed, it’s best to start with a lower dosage of creatine if you’re a beginner and gradually increase if needed.
You can take it in one go or divide it into several smaller doses throughout the day, and you can mix it with water or milk. This is totally up to you.
In practice, creatine can be taken whenever you want throughout the day, but it’s best to take it on a full stomach to avoid any digestive issues. The best cre͏atine for muscle recovery is most effective when taken before or after a workout. Just make sure to drink plenty of water because creatine pulls water into muscle cells, so your body will need more of it.
FAQs on Creatine
What questions are people asking about the best cre͏atine in 2025? We’ve addressed them below.
What Is the Most Effective Creatine?
Creatine monohydrate is the most studied and best form of creatine. It consistently demonstrates effectiveness in increasing muscle creatine stores, improving exercise performance, and supporting muscl͏e growth.
Is Creatine Better Before or After a Workout?
For the best results, creatine should be taken before or after your workout. The most important factor is consistency, so choose a time that you’re most likely to stick with.
Can You Take Creatine Every Day?
For the best results, creatine should be taken daily at the recommended dosage. This consistent intake helps support muscl͏e growth, strength, and recovery.
Does Creatine Affect Testosterone?
A study in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that creatine supplements do not affect testosterone [17].
What Is the Best Cre͏atine for Beginners?
Creatine monohydrate is the most studied and reliable form of creatine for beginners. Look for micronized creatine monohydrate, which mixes easily with water and is gentler on the stomach. Trusted brands like Crazy Nutrition, Kion, and Transparent Labs offer high-quality options with minimal additives.
What Creatine Do Most Bodybuilders Use?
Most bodybuilders use creatine monohydrate because it can feed energy to muscles for needed bursts of strength. Though newer forms like creatine hydrochloride or creatine ethyl ester exist, many bodybuilders stick with the classic monohydrate for its proven results and value.
Can I Mix Creatine With Protein?
The Creatine vs. protein debate is always ongoing, and so is their mixability with protein shakes. In fact, creatine and protein are a potent pair for the best cre͏atine for strength and endurance to develop optimal muscle mass and strength.
How Long Does Creatine Take to Work?
If you take a large dose of creatine for several days and then level out your dose, you can see results quickly. Starting with a smaller dose and slowly increasing it will take longer.
Best Creatine Supplement: Final Take
Creatine monohydrate is one of the most tested supplements on the market. Evidence shows that it can significantly increase strength and muscle size when taken regularly.
There may also be side effects, with some individuals experiencing gastrointestinal distress and muscle cramps. There is also a risk if you are pregnant, nursing, taking prescription meds, or have a pre-existing medical condition.
The bottom line is if you talk with your doctor first and follow the recommended dosage, the best cre͏atine supplements, like Crazy Nutrition Creatine Ultimate CRN-5, can help you achieve your fitness goals.
>>Check the best prices for Creatine Ultimate CRN-5
References
“Ultimate CRN-5.” Crazy Nutrition, https://crazynutrition.com/pages/ultimate-crn-5. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.
“Creatine.” Kion, https://www.getkion.com/products/creatine. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.
“Creatine Monohydrate HMB Supplement – 30 Servings.” Transparent Labs, https://www.transparentlabs.com/products/strengthseries-creapure-hmb-creatine-supplement. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.
“XWERKS Lift.” XWERKS, https://xwerks.com/products/xwerks-lift. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.
“Creatine+.” Natural Stacks, https://www.naturalstacks.com/products/creatine. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.
“M M Gave Natural Stacks 1 Star. Check out the Full Review.” Trustpilot, https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/6097d515f9f4870a6caa4fc9. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.
“Creatine.” Onnit.Com, 13 Mar. 2018, https://www.onnit.com/creatine/.
“Creatine+ with Taurine.” Mindbodygreen.Com, https://shop.mindbodygreen.com/products/creatine?utm_source=Katalys&offer_id=260&publisher_id=6598&transaction_id=102c3de3088a86e9f82410d276c5cb. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.
“Creatine Monohydrate Powder 1KG.” Naked Nutrition, https://nakednutrition.com/products/creatine-monohydrate-powder. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.
“Check out This Amazon Review of Sculpt Nation by V Shred Creatine – Premium Creatine Monohydrate Powder to Support Muscles, Energy, and Brain Function, Fruit Punch Flavored Creatine – 30 Servings.” Amazon.Com, https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/review/B0CFB5F3J8/R2VURWQB7MOODZ?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B0CFB3ZHJV. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.
“Check out This Amazon Review of Sculpt Nation by V Shred Creatine – Premium Creatine Monohydrate Powder to Support Muscles, Energy, and Brain Function, Fruit Punch Flavored Creatine – 30 Servings.” Amazon.Com, https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/review/B0CFB5F3J8/R1GJ1A3NSGIZEC?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B0CFB3ZHJV. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.
Deldicque, Louise, et al. “Creatine Enhances Differentiation of Myogenic C2C12 Cells by Activating Both P38 and Akt/PKB Pathways.” American Journal of Physiology. Cell Physiology, vol. 293, no. 4, 2007, pp. C1263-71, doi:10.1152/ajpcell.00162.2007.
Buford, Thomas W., et al. “International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: Creatine Supplementation and Exercise.” Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, vol. 4, no. 1, 2007, doi:10.1186/1550-2783-4-6.
Cooke, Matthew B., et al. “Creatine Supplementation Enhances Muscle Force Recovery after Eccentrically-Induced Muscle Damage in Healthy Individuals.” Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, vol. 6, no. 1, 2009, doi:10.1186/1550-2783-6-13.
Bird, Stephen P. “Creatine Supplementation and Exercise Performance: A Brief Review.” Journal of Sports Science & Medicine, vol. 2, no. 4, 2003, pp. 123–132.
Rae, Caroline, et al. “Oral Creatine Monohydrate Supplementation Improves Brain Performance: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Cross-over Trial.” Proceedings. Biological Sciences, vol. 270, no. 1529, 2003, pp. 2147–2150, doi:10.1098/rspb.2003.2492.
Antonio, Jose, et al. “Common Questions and Misconceptions about Creatine Supplementation: What Does the Scientific Evidence Really Show?” Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, vol. 18, no. 1, 2021, doi:10.1186/s12970-021-00412-w.