Top Category Winners
Best Overall
Thorne Creatine
Premium, NSF Certified for Sport creatine monohydrate with unmatched purity.
Best Value
Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine
A classic, highly rated monohydrate powder that mixes well and is budget-friendly.
Best HCL
Transparent Labs Creatine HCL
A highly soluble form of creatine, great for those who experience bloating with monohydrate.
Best for Muscle Growth
MuscleTech Cell-Tech
A blend with carbs to maximize creatine absorption and muscle recovery.
Best Bulk
BulkSupplements Creatine Monohydrate
No-frills, pure creatine monohydrate in large quantities at a low price per serving.
Best Creapure
Creapure (Various Brands)
The gold standard of German-manufactured creatine monohydrate, known for its ultra-purity.
Compare All Creatines
| Brand | Type | Form | Purity | 3rd-Party Tested | Taste | Mixability | Price / Serving ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thorne | Monohydrate | Powder | High | Yes (NSF) | Unflavored | Excellent | $0.40 |
| Optimum Nutrition | Monohydrate | Powder/Capsule | High | Yes (Informed Choice) | Unflavored/Flavored | Good | $0.35 |
| Transparent Labs | HCL | Powder | High | Yes | Flavored | Excellent | $0.60 |
| MuscleTech | Blend/Monohydrate | Powder | Medium | Yes | Flavored | Good | $0.80 |
| BulkSupplements | Monohydrate | Powder | High | Third-Party | Unflavored | Average | $0.15 |
| Creapure Brands | Monohydrate | Powder | Ultra-High | Yes | Unflavored | Excellent | $0.45 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the loading protocol for creatine?
The standard loading protocol involves taking 20 grams of creatine per day (usually divided into 4 servings of 5g each) for 5-7 days. This rapidly saturates your muscle stores. However, loading is optional; you can achieve the same saturation by taking a maintenance dose, it will just take about 3-4 weeks.
What is the maintenance dose for creatine?
The typical maintenance dose is 3 to 5 grams of creatine per day. Larger athletes may benefit from up to 10 grams per day. This daily dose keeps muscle creatine stores saturated.
When is the best time to take creatine?
Timing does not matter as much as consistency. While some studies suggest a slight benefit to taking it post-workout with carbohydrates and protein, the most important factor is taking your daily dose every day, regardless of the time.
Who should take creatine?
Creatine is highly beneficial for athletes, bodybuilders, and anyone engaged in high-intensity training or resistance exercise. It is also safe and effective for older adults looking to maintain muscle mass and cognitive function.
Who shouldn't take creatine?
Individuals with pre-existing kidney disease should consult a doctor before taking creatine. Additionally, those who are pregnant or nursing, or under 18 years of age, should seek medical advice first.