Best Creatine Monohydrate Supplements on the Market [Reviewed]
Learn about creatine and read the roundup below.
If you are interested in maximizing your gains at the gym, creatine supplementation is the solution. Creatine has transformed the bodybuilding/fitness industry. At one time, it was the most talked-about secret in the fitness/sports industry- now it has become one of the most commonly used supplements.
When it comes to dietary/fitness supplements, creatine is one of the most widely studied and used in history. The name creatine comes from the Greek word for meat: kreas. It is a natural substance produced by your body by the amino acids: glycine, arginine, and methionine. It is also found in red meat, seafood, and poultry- but the amounts are low and are often lost during the cooking process.
Creatine supplementation can increase your body’s production of ATP, a high-energy molecule, and reduce fatigue during HIIT workouts. When used properly, alongside a workout regimen, creatine has been proven to improve athletic performance, boost muscle gains, and increase strength. creatine has also been associated with a variety of other health benefits.
In this article, we’re going to explain more about creatine, the benefits and side effects, dosages, and also review what we feel are the best 9 creatine supplements. If you are considering using creatine supplementation to maximize your gains, you have come to the right place.
We spent a lot of time researching and creating this list of the best creatine in 2022. After reading this, you will be equipped with the information you need to make an educated decision about which creatine supplement to try. You can be sure that the supplements on this list can be trusted. They have all been third-party tested for quality, potency, and purity.
Creatine: What You Need to Know
Before we get into the reviews, we need to first look at the basics of creatine:
- What is creatine?
- How does creatine work?
- Who should use creatine?
- Different types of creatine
What is Creatine?
In 1832, Michel Eugene Chevreul when he isolated it from skeletal muscle. However, the first time it came under the public eye was the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona– though it had been researched since the 1920s.
As mentioned, it is made up of three amino acids and is responsible for a variety of bodily functions. Your body naturally produces it and stores approximately 95% of it in your muscles. The remaining 5% is stored in your kidneys, liver, and brain. You can also find it in seafood, poultry, and red meat. However, as mentioned, the levels are low and most of it is lost in the cooking process, so you’d have to eat a lot to make a difference. It’s a lot easier to take a creatine supplement.
Creatine is available in a variety of forms: powder is the most common- but you can also find capsules and liquid as well. Liquid is not as effective because it is unstable when in solution and should be mixed up right before consumption. Most people use powder, but many do find that the capsules are convenient because you don’t have to mix anything- just grab some water and take them.
Creatine has been proven to improve athletic performance by increasing strength and power.
How Does Creatine Work?
According to the experts, creatine rapidly produces energy in your body. Research has proven it to improve strength in your upper and lower body, making you bigger and stronger.
Creatine supplementation increases phosphocreatine stores in your muscles during HIIT workouts. It combines with ADP (adenosine diphosphate) to create ATP (adenosine triphosphate). ATP is often dubbed the body’s “energy currency” because it is the primary source of energy for short, explosive moves.
You can maximize the effectiveness of creatine by also using alpha-lipoic acid, protein supplementation, and carbohydrates.
Who Should Use Creatine?
There has been a lot of study and analysis into creatine and its use by athletes. Experts say that it is helpful in activities such as rowing, jumping, and soccer. However, the effects vary in activities such as sprinting, cycling, and swimming.
That being said, there’s much more to creatine than muscles. Recent studies have indicated that creatine can improve brain and heart conditions. However, more research is required to determine how much improvement individuals with these conditions will experience with creatine supplementation.
Creatine supplementation may be required for those who have difficulty metabolizing creatine. Some research indicates that low creatine levels in the brain could be an indicator of autism, seizures, decreased mental functioning, and difficulty with movements. Creatine also helps treat sarcopenia, which is a condition found in older adults characterized by muscle loss due to the aging process.
Individuals who consume a vegan or vegetarian diet don’t produce as much creatine due to their diet. Therefore, creatine supplementation should be included as part of their nutritional plan.
Types of Creatine
As mentioned, there are several types of creatine that may be used in supplements. The most common is creatine monohydrate. This is the “gold standard” of creatine. However, there are a few more. We will look at these below:
Creatine Monohydrate
Creatine monohydrate is the most commonly used and studied form of creatine. As the name indicates, it is a creatinine molecule paired with one water molecule. This is the best and least expensive form of creatine you will find. It is often found in supplements by itself, though some manufacturers use it along with one or more other forms of creatine.
Creatine Ethyl Ester
Creatine ethyl ester, or CEE, is an advanced form of creatine. According to experts, it’s suitable for sports such as ice hockey, handball, and climbing. This form of creatine does not require a loading phase and the dosage is lower than creatine monohydrate.
Creatine Hydrochloride (HCl)
Creatine Hydrochloride came onto the scene in 2009. This form of creatine is more water soluble, so smaller doses are just as effective. It breaks down faster, so absorption is easier. This form of creatine is made by bringing together one creatine molecule with one hydrochloride molecule.
Buffered Creatine
Buffered creatine has a higher pH than other forms- which means it has a higher bioavailability and is more stable in your stomach. Also, it absorbs easily into your muscles. The two most common are Kre-Alkalyn and Crea-Trona.
Creatine Magnesium Chelate
Creatine magnesium chelate is made from attaching a creatinine molecule to a magnesium molecule. We don’t know a lot about this form of creatine, but it does show promise as an effective form of creatine.
Best Creatine In 2022 Reviews
Below, we’re going to take a closer look at the best 9 creatinine 2022. This will help you get started on your creatine journey. Again, keep in mind that these have been third-party tested, so you can be sure they are potent, pure, and high-quality.
XWERKS Lift
XWERKS Lift is the first product on our list. According to the website, this product is a micronized creatine that is pure and unflavored. There is no gluten, sugar, or dairy, so it is safe for everyone, making it one of the best options on the market.
XWERKS Lift offers 80 servings per package and each serving offers 5 grams of pure creatine monohydrate. Of course, you’ll need to be patient because it takes 2 to 4 weeks to start seeing results. You can combine it in water or your favorite workout beverage- since it’s unflavored, it won’t change the taste. According to the manufacturer, you should use XWERKS Lift along with the other products in their lineup for best results.
Each package costs $49- but XWERKS does offer a subscribe and save program that will save you 5%, bringing the cost to $46.55 per package. This is a great deal, as each package will last over one month when taken as directed (1 serving daily).
| Product Type | Powder |
| Price/Servings | $49/80 servings |
| Ingredients | Creatine monohydrate |
| Side Effects | None |
| Recommended Dosage | 1 serving daily |
Cellucor Cor-Performance Creatine Monohydrate
Cellucor has been in the industry for some time. Their Cor-Performance Creatine Monohydrate is an unflavored, water-soluble micronized creatine monohydrate. This formula contains:
- Creatine monohydrate
- Betaine anhydrous
- Disodium phosphate
Each serving provides you with 5 grams of creatine and should be combined with 240 to 300 milliliters of water for best results.
If you want to do a loading phase, the manufacturer recommends that you take 1 scoop four times per day for the first 5 to 7 days. Then, when you transition to the maintenance phase, you can drop to 1 scoop daily, taken prior to, during, or following your workout.
Bloating and/or gas is a common issue with many creatine supplements. However, according to customer reviews, this isn’t a problem with Cor-Performance. This is an ideal choice for HIIT sessions.
Customers love Cellucor for their high-quality, award-winning creatine products. Plus, they have stellar customer service, compared to other brands. They are a well-known company because they sponsor many athletes and have won awards for their work in the fitness supplement industry.
Each container offers 72 servings and costs $24.99. Cellucor offers a subscribe and save program that will save you 20% per package, bringing the cost to $17.49 per container.
| Product Type | Powder |
| Price/Servings | $24.99/72 servings |
| Ingredients | Creatine monohydrate, Disodium phosphate, Betaine anhydrous |
| Side Effects | None |
| Recommended Dosage | 1 serving daily |
Crazy Nutrition CRN-5 Creatine
CRN-5 Creatine by CrazyBulk comes highly recommended for those who engage in heavy lifting and/or intense workout sessions. It is a combination of five types of creatine and is available in a mango & orange flavor.
According to the website, CRN-5 provides you with the strength and energy you need to push past your limits. You will have a level of energy you’ve never known before. Your fatigue will be reduced, and you will have what you need to power through HIIT sessions easily.
The combination of five types of creatine along with electrolytes to keep you hydrated will give you results within 30 days. The five types of creatine are:
- Creatine monohydrate
- Creatine citrate pyruvate
- Creatine HCl
- Tri-creatine malate
- Creatine ethyl ester
As mentioned, this formula does contain electrolytes to help with hydration and replenishment:
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Magnesium
CRN-5 by CrazyBulk costs $34.99 per container and each container offers 30 servings. There is a subscribe and save option as well that brings the price to $27.99. You can choose how often you want it delivered based on how often you work out.
| Product Type | Powder |
| Price/Servings | $34.99/30 servings |
| Ingredients | Creatine monohydrate, Creatine HCl, Creatine citrate pyruvate, Tri-creatine malate, Creatine ethyl ester, sodium, potassium, magnesium |
| Side Effects | None |
| Recommended Dosage | 1 serving daily |
Beast Sports Creature Creatine
Beast Sports has been in the industry for more than 25 years. They are known for providing customers with high-quality fitness products. Their goal is to build and preserve muscle strength.
Their creatine formula, Creature Creatine, is formulated to increase muscle mass and improve athletic performance. This product is designed to help muscles quickly recover and grow. You can push your body harder without worrying about fatigue.
Creature Creatine is available in capsules or powder. Most of the other brands recommend that you use 1 scoop per serving- but Beast Sports recommend 2 scoops in 170 to 240 milliliters of water. For best results, you should consume one serving prior to working out and one serving following your workout. As mentioned, Beast Sports does offer capsules in their Creature Creatine. The recommended dosage is 6 capsules daily- 3 prior to working out and 3 following your workout.
For the powdered version, there are several interesting flavors:
- Pink Lemonade
- Beast Punch
- Cherry Limeade
- Citrus
- Unflavored
Like CRN-5 from CrazyBulk, Creature Creatine contains 5 types of creatine, along with a few other ingredients:
- Creatine
- Creatine gluconate
- Di-creatine malate
- Buffered creatine
- Creatine monohydrate
- Creatine anhydrous
- Biotin
- Chromium
Beast Sports Creature Creatine Capsules costs $32.99 for 60 servings (30 days, if taken as directed). The powder version is $31.99 for 60 servings.
| Product Type | Powder or Capsule |
| Price/Servings | $32.99/60 servings (capsules)
$31.99/60 servings (powder) |
| Ingredients | Creatine monohydrate, Buffered creatine, Creatine anhydrous, Di-creatine malate, Creatine gluconate, Biotin, Chromium |
| Side Effects | None |
| Recommended Dosage | 2 servings daily (before & after workout) |
Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine Powder
Optimum Nutrition has been in the industry for 30 years and has become one of the most trusted brands among professionals. All of their products are third-party tested for potency, purity, and quality. Their Micronized Creatine Powder is one of their best products.
This creatine formula contains zero calories and zero carbs and supports muscle growth and strength. Simply add 5 grams or 1 rounded tablespoon into the beverage of your choice- or even a protein shake to see your muscles grow.
It is unflavored and is available in a variety of sizes: 30 servings, 240 servings, or 400 servings. When it comes to muscle recovery, Micronized Creatine Powder by Optimum Nutrition is one of the best options.
| Product Type | Powder |
| Price/Servings | $10.99/30 servings
$44.99/240 servings $64.99/400 servings |
| Ingredients | Creatine monohydrate, Buffered creatine, Creatine anhydrous, Di-creatine malate, Creatine gluconate, Biotin, Chromium |
| Side Effects | None |
| Recommended Dosage | 1 serving daily |
Onnit Creatine Monohydrate
Onnit Creatine is dairy-free, soy-free, and vegan-friendly. There is only one ingredient in this formula: 100% micronized creatine monohydrate. The recommended dosage for this product is 2 scoops, which is equal to 5 grams. You should add Onnit Creatine Monohydrate to approximately 240 milliliters of water or the beverage of your choice.
Many bodybuilders, sprinters, wrestlers, and athletes choose Onnit Creatine Monohydrate because it promotes improved athletic performance, as well as increased strength and endurance. Onnit Creatine Monohydrate contains high levels of amino acids, which help repair damage to muscle cells and increase muscle mass growth.
Onnit Creatine Monohydrate has earned the Certified for Sport certification from NSF, which means there are no forbidden substances, and it is safe for regular use. In general, Onnit products are some of the best in the industry.
Each container costs $14.99 for 30 servings. They do offer a subscribe and save program that saves 15%, bringing the cost to $12.74 per container.
| Product Type | Powder |
| Price/Servings | $14.99/30 servings |
| Ingredients | Creatine monohydrate |
| Side Effects | None |
| Recommended Dosage | 1 serving daily |
NSP Nutrition Muscle Power Creatine
NSP Nutrition has been in the fitness industry for almost 50 years. According to the many reviews, their creatine formula, Muscle Power Creatine, surpasses the expectations of their customers- so they keep coming back. This product keeps them refreshed and full of energy during their workout.
Muscle Power Creatine by NSP Nutrition is a 100% pure creatine monohydrate with no additives or fillers. Simply combine one scoop, or 5 grams, of this zero-sugar powder with the beverage of your choice.
According to some of the reviews, customers have experienced an improvement in their overall performance when using Muscle Power Creatine.
Each container costs $27.99 for 60 servings. If you purchase more than one container, you can get a discount on each one. The best value is 6 containers for $24.79 each- that’s a 20% savings!
| Product Type | Powder |
| Price/Servings | $27.99/60 servings
Bulk discounts available |
| Ingredients | Creatine Monohydrate |
| Side Effects | None |
| Recommended Dosage | 1 serving daily |
Elm & Rye Creatine
Elm & Rye’s creatine formula is simply called “Creatine” and comes in the form of a capsule. Each bottle contains 60 capsules, and each capsule contains 1400 milligrams of creatine monohydrate.
This product also contains vegetable magnesium stearate, which is to keep the ingredients from sticking together and to improve the consistency. Elm & Rye Creatine has been through third-party testing and the results have been published. Their goal is to be 100% transparent regarding the quality of each and every one of their products.
As mentioned, Elm & Rye Creatine is creatine monohydrate and it is packed with essential amino acids. Experts recommend that you take 2 capsules per serving. Each bottle costs $44.99 for 60 capsules. However, like most of the other brands, they do offer a subscribe and save program, allowing you to save 20%, bringing the cost per bottle to $35.99.
| Product Type | Capsule |
| Price/Servings | $44.99/30 servings (60 capsules) |
| Ingredients | Creatine monohydrate |
| Side Effects | None |
| Recommended Dosage | 1 serving daily |
Performance Lab Maintain
While it’s true that you need to take a day off from training every now and then, it’s not necessary to take a day off from your supplement. Performance Lab’s Sport Maintain is the ideal choice for those off days. It offers support for growing muscles and replenishes them with nutrients.
Even after your workout is complete, your muscles continue to grow. Sport Maintain ensures that anabolic activity is extended for 12 hours. This creatine monohydrate formula is 100% safe and allergen-free. Their caps are made from cultured tapioca, which are easy to swallow and digest.
Each serving contains the following:
- 5 milligrams of Iron
- 3000 milligrams of Creapure
- 1600 milligrams of CarnoSyn beta-alanine
Recommended dosage is 6 to 10 capsules per day. On rest days, 6 capsules are enough- take 3 first things in the morning and then 3 in the afternoon. You can purchase this slow-releasing formula in 1, 2, or 3-month supply. It’s important to note that this is a bit more expensive than some of the other options- but, as mentioned, it is ideal for your rest days.
| Product Type | Capsules |
| Price/Servings | $44/up to 10 servings |
| Ingredients | Creatine monohydrate, Beta-alanine, Iron |
| Side Effects | None |
| Recommended Dosage | 1 serving daily |
As you can see, you have plenty of high-quality options in a variety of prices, flavors, and products (capsules or powders). Choosing the right one for you depends on your personal preference.
How We Chose the Best Creatine
Now that you know a bit more about creatine in general and our picks for the best 9 creatine products on the market, we’ll explain how we chose these supplements.
First of all, we considered the manufacturers. This is where customer reviews help because the best marketing for a product is happy customers. Safety and purity are critical, so these companies must always do everything they can to ensure this for their products through third-party testing.
In the health/fitness industry, testing for impurities and harmful substances is critical, so you must look at the labels to ensure that they have been third-party tested and certified for quality and purity. If not, you don’t want to use it. Some of these testers are USP, NSF International, and Informed Choice. If you don’t see these seals, chances are the product has not been tested.
As mentioned, creatine is affordable and easily accessible- but you want a high-quality creatine monohydrate that comes alone or combined with other types of creatine. This will ensure you get the best results. While it’s true that creatine monohydrate is generally considered to be superior, each type of creatine has benefits associated with it.
Additionally, you want to look for brands that clearly have ingredients and dosages listed on the package, along with instructions for taking it. Creatine is generally safe for everyone- but if you do have concerns, speak with your physician. That being said, if you have liver or kidney issues, you should probably avoid using creatine until you discuss it with your physician. Also, if there are any warnings related to the product, those should be listed on the label as well.
The next thing we looked at was price versus value. As you can see, there is a wide variety of price points associated with creatine supplements. Some are more budget-friendly than others. That being said, a more expensive one is not any more effective than a budget-friendly one. You can spend anywhere from $10 to $100 per month on a creatine supplement- but they are going to work about the same.
The final thing we looked at was their advertising practices. Many brands make outrageous claims that can never be substantiated. No matter what you hear, creatine is not a miracle supplement. Sure, it will do lots of great things for you- but it’s not going to happen overnight and it’s not going to happen unless you put in the effort.
Conclusion
Creatine has been studied since the 1920s and it is still one of the least expensive, safest, and most effective supplements for muscle growth. The best part is, it’s natural and also has many health benefits in addition to improving athletic performance.
As mentioned, there are additional health benefits associated with creatine, including glucose treatment and heart and brain conditions. The truth is, everyone could benefit from using creatine in their daily lives.
There is no question that creatine can improve your overall health and wellness, as well as your athletic performance. If you’re interested in trying it out, consider starting with one of the brands we’ve mentioned above. You may need to experiment to find the best one for you- but we promise that you will be thrilled with your results.
