Best Pre-Workout Powders of 2025

Bonnie Salem Avatar
Bonnie Salem
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Pre-workout powders are a popular supplement choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who want to enhance their workout performance. These powders typically contain a blend of ingredients such as caffeine, beta-alanine, creatine, and nitric oxide boosters. They are designed to increase energy, improve focus, delay fatigue, and enhance muscle pump during exercise. Pre-workout powders can be consumed before any type of physical activity, including weightlifting, cardio, and sports. It is important to note that these supplements should be taken in moderation and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as they may have potential side effects and interactions with other medications.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Cellucor C4 Sport Pre Workout Powder Fruit Punch Cover #TOP 1
Cellucor C4 Sport Pre Workout Powder Fruit Punch
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Cellucor C4 Sport Pre Workout Powder Cover #TOP 2
Cellucor C4 Sport Pre Workout Powder
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Cellucor C4 Ripped Sport Pre Workout Powder Cover #TOP 3
Cellucor C4 Ripped Sport Pre Workout Powder
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Pre-Workout Powders

#TOP 1

Cellucor C4 Sport Pre Workout Powder Fruit Punch

104599
Fruit Punch (Sport)
Cellucor C4 Sport Pre Workout Powder Fruit Punch Cover
Cellucor C4 Sport Pre Workout Powder Fruit Punch - NSF Certified for Sport | 30 Servings, Packaging may vary.

Cellucor C4 Sport Pre Workout Powder Fruit Punch is an NSF Certified for Sport pre-workout powder designed to build lean muscle mass, maximize performance, and increase strength in all athletes. It is formulated with CarnoSyn Beta-Alanine, a premium clinically studied beta-alanine, which has been studied to support muscular endurance and fight fatigue. It comes in delicious flavors such as Blue Raspberry, Fruit Punch, and Watermelon. Take one serving (1 scoop) of C4 Sport, mixed with 6-8 fl. oz. of water 20 - 30 minutes before training.

What We Like
Great taste
Steady energy boost
No jitters
Long-lasting performance
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Moderate energy burst

Cellucor C4 Sport Pre Workout Powder

156564
Hawaiian Punch
Cellucor C4 Sport Pre Workout Powder Cover
Cellucor C4 Sport Pre Workout Powder - NSF Certified for Sport - Elite Hydration - 200mg Caffeine + Creatine + Beta-Alanine - Electrolytes and Energy Supplement - Hawaiian Punch, 20 Servings

Cellucor C4 Sport is designed to enhance your workout experience with its powerful features. With 200mg of caffeine, you can expect a significant energy boost to help you power through intense training sessions. It also includes CarnoSyn Beta-Alanine, which helps reduce muscle fatigue, allowing you to push harder and longer. The product is formulated for elite hydration, replenishing essential minerals and electrolytes that are lost during exercise. Plus, it is NSF Certified for Sport, ensuring that it meets high standards for safety and quality, making it a reliable choice for both professional and collegiate athletes.

What We Like
Extra caffeine boost
Good flavors
Effective energy for workouts
Focus and pump enhancement
Great taste in Hawaiian Punch
What We Don't Like
Mixed taste experiences

Cellucor C4 Ripped Sport Pre Workout Powder

105821
Cellucor C4 Ripped Sport Pre Workout Powder Cover
C4 Ripped Sport Pre Workout Powder Arctic Snow Cone - NSF Certified for Sport + Sugar Free Preworkout Energy Supplement for Men & Women - 135mg Caffeine + Weight Loss - 30 Servings

Cellucor C4 Ripped Sport Pre Workout Powder is a sugar-free pre-workout supplement designed to help you train harder and support your body's ability to burn fat. Formulated with fat-burning ingredients like CLA and DygloFit, it also contains CarnoSyn Beta-Alanine to support muscular endurance and fight fatigue. It comes in two delicious flavors, Arctic Snow Cone and Fruit Punch, and is NSF Certified for Sport. Customers love the taste and effectiveness of this pre-workout powder.

What We Like
Good taste options available
Effective energy boost
Great value for money
Easy to mix
Suitable for beginners
What We Don't Like
Weak tingle sensation
Strange aftertaste
#TOP 4

NITROSURGE Pre Workout Supplement

NITROSURGE Pre Workout Supplement Cover
Jacked Factory NITROSURGE Pre Workout Supplement - Endless Energy, Instant Strength Gains, Clear Focus, Intense Pumps - NO Booster & Preworkout Powder with Beta Alanine - 30 Servings, Cherry Limeade

NITROSURGE is a science-backed pre-workout powder that provides endless energy, instant strength gains, clear focus, and intense pumps, without harsh stimulants and banned ingredients. It boosts nitric oxide, energy, and strength for hours on end with clean and pure ingredients. L-citrulline and betaine anhydrous increase muscle pumps, while clinically researched ingredients optimize energy, focus, strength, and stamina. Made in a cGMP-certified facility in the USA, it is free from artificial fillers, food dyes, and banned stimulants.

What We Like
Natural energy boost
Enhanced focus and alertness
No crash after workout
Great taste options
Good mixability
What We Don't Like
Slight tingling sensation
Some flavors overly sweet

Cellucor C4 Original Pre Workout Powder

810390028405
Icy Blue Razz
Cellucor C4 Original Pre Workout Powder Cover
Cellucor C4 Original Pre Workout Powder ICY Blue Razz - Vitamin C for Immune Support - Sugar Free Preworkout Energy for Men & Women - 150mg Caffeine Plus Beta Alanine Plus Creatine - 30 Servings

Cellucor C4 Original Pre Workout Powder is a foundational explosive pre-workout that is beneficial for lifters of all levels. It is formulated with a super creatine compound to support strength and performance, CarnoSyn Beta-Alanine to support muscular endurance and fight fatigue, and a patented compound that may help the body prolong its caffeine tolerance buildup. With 150mg of caffeine and an array of delicious sugar-free flavors, C4 Original is a great choice for anyone looking to increase their energy, endurance, pumps, and performance.

What We Like
Energy boost
Enhanced focus
Great taste
Mixes well
Affordable
What We Don't Like
Possible jitters
Occasional clumping
#TOP 6

ALPHA LION Core Pre Workout

sample_sku_9365
ALPHA LION Core Pre Workout Cover
ALPHA LION Core Pre Workout Powder with Creatine for Performance, Beta Alanine for Muscle, L-Citrulline for Pump & Tri-Source Caffeine for Sustained Energy (30 Servings, Fruit Punch Flavor)

ALPHA LION Core Pre Workout, also known as ALPHA LION Core, is a powerful pre-workout powder designed to enhance your workout performance and provide sustained energy, focus, strength, endurance, and hydration. With ingredients like Creatine Monohydrate, it helps increase strength and endurance, while Beta-Alanine boosts exercise capacity and decreases muscle fatigue. The inclusion of L-Citrulline and Taurine supports muscle pump and function, reducing muscle damage and preventing muscle soreness. Additionally, ALPHA LION Core features a great-tasting caffeine matrix for sustained energy and focus. This pre-workout powder is perfect for both new and advanced lifters, delivering all the essentials needed to look and feel your strongest.

What We Like
Effective energy boost
Good taste with no grit
Affordable pricing
Variety of flavors
Includes creatine for muscle recovery
What We Don't Like
Powder can crumble over time
#TOP 7

RSP NUTRITION AminoLean Pre Workout Powder

FID64914
RSP NUTRITION AminoLean Pre Workout Powder Cover
RSP NUTRITION AminoLean Pre Workout Powder, Amino Energy & Weight Management with Vegan BCAA Amino Acids, Natural Caffeine, Preworkout Boost for Men & Women, 30 Serv, Pink Lemonade…

RSP NUTRITION AminoLean Pre Workout Powder is a natural amino energy supplement that can be taken any time of day. With 125mg of natural caffeine, it provides a clean, sustained boost of energy and enhanced mental focus for both men and women. It contains 5g of BCAA and EAA amino acids to enhance workout performance and promote a more complete amino profile. The optimal blend of CLA, L-Carnitine, and Green Tea helps in natural weight management, making it a guilt-free, keto diet-friendly solution with zero sugar and zero carbs.

What We Like
Effective energy boost
No jitters or crashes
Great taste options
Mixes well with water
Affordable price point
What We Don't Like
Some flavors may be sweet
Grainy texture at times
#TOP 8

BSN N.O.-XPLODE Pre Workout Powder

BSN
1068297
BSN N.O.-XPLODE Pre Workout Powder Cover
BSN N.O.-XPLODE Pre Workout Powder, Energy Supplement for Men and Women with Creatine and Beta-Alanine, Flavor: Fruit Punch, 30 Servings

The BSN N.O.-XPLODE Pre Workout Powder is a legendary pre-workout supplement designed to help athletes train harder since 2007. With advanced ingredient technology, it helps users push past their previous limits by supporting explosive energy, intense focus, and maximum performance. This pre-workout supplement comes in amazing Fruit Punch, Blue Raz, Grape, Green Apple, and Watermelon flavors and is available in 30 or 60 serving sizes.

What We Like
Unmatched energy boost
Variety of great flavors
Quick onset of effects
Enhanced endurance and strength
Smooth dissolving powder
What We Don't Like
Limited servings per container
Some flavors may not appeal

Six Star Pre-Workout Explosion Ripped 2.0

Six Star Pre-Workout Explosion Ripped 2.0 Cover
Six Star Pre-Workout Explosion Ripped 2.0 Watermelon - Endurance Powder with Caffeine, Beta-Alanine, Lactic Acid Buffer, Electrolyte Recovery, C. canephora Robusta for Weight Loss - 30 Servings

The Six Star Pre-Workout Ripped 2.0 is a unique blend designed to enhance your workout and support weight loss. With increased beta-alanine, you can push through longer workouts, improving your endurance. The scientifically measured caffeine gives you a significant energy boost, helping you stay focused during training. Plus, the inclusion of electrolytes aids in quicker recovery, ensuring you're ready for your next session. Finally, C. canephora Robusta is included to assist with weight loss, making this product a comprehensive solution for your fitness goals.

What We Like
Great energy boost
Good taste
Mixes well
Best ingredients
Effective on an empty stomach
What We Don't Like
Occasional tingling sensation
Possible inconsistent flavor
#TOP 10

MuscleTech Vapor X5 Pre-Workout Powder

MTVPX5001
MuscleTech Vapor X5 Pre-Workout Powder Cover
Pre Workout Powder | MuscleTech Vapor X5 for Men & Women, Energy Drink Mix Sports Nutrition Pre-Workout Miami Spring Break (30 Servings)-Package Varies

MuscleTech Vapor X5 is an all-in-one pre-workout powder designed to help you build lean muscle, increase strength, and boost energy and focus. It contains creatine monohydrate, betaine, Nitrosigine, taurine, and hawthorn extract to support muscle growth, endurance, and nitric oxide levels. Customers have praised its effectiveness, taste, and value.

What We Like
Noticeable energy boost
Improved endurance
Great taste
Fast recovery
Dissolves well
What We Don't Like
Gritty texture towards end
Low stock availability
Buying Guide Image

Choose the Best Pre-Workout Powders for Your Needs

Introduction

Pre-workout powders are a popular supplement among fitness enthusiasts and bodybuilders. These powders are designed to boost energy, enhance focus, and improve performance during workouts. With so many options on the market, choosing the right pre-workout powder can be a daunting task. In this article, we will discuss some important factors to consider when selecting a pre-workout powder.

Ingredients

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a pre-workout powder is the ingredient list. Most pre-workout powders contain a blend of ingredients that are designed to boost energy, increase strength and endurance, and enhance focus. Some common ingredients include caffeine, beta-alanine, and creatine.

It's important to carefully review the ingredient list and understand what each ingredient does and how it may affect your body. Some people may have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients, so it's important to check the label carefully and avoid any ingredients that you may be allergic to.

Dosage

Another important factor to consider when choosing a pre-workout powder is the dosage. Most pre-workout powders come in scoop or tablet form, and the recommended dosage is typically listed on the label. It's important to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed the recommended amount, as taking too much of a pre-workout powder can cause unwanted side effects such as jitters, nausea, and insomnia.

If you're new to pre-workout powders, it's best to start with a small dose and gradually increase the amount as needed. This will allow your body to get used to the ingredients and minimize the risk of experiencing any unpleasant side effects.

Flavor and Mixability

Pre-workout powders come in a variety of flavors, so it's important to choose a flavor that you like. Some pre-workout powders have a bitter or chalky taste, which can make them difficult to drink. If you're not a fan of the taste of pre-workout powders, you can try mixing it with fruit juice or another flavored drink to make it more palatable.

Another factor to consider is mixability. Pre-workout powders that don't mix well can be clumpy and difficult to drink. To avoid this, look for pre-workout powders that are specifically designed to mix well with water or other beverages.

Price

Price is another important factor to consider when choosing a pre-workout powder. Pre-workout powders can vary greatly in price, from budget-friendly options to more expensive premium brands. It's important to choose a pre-workout powder that fits within your budget, but be aware that cheaper options may not always be the best choice.

In some cases, cheaper pre-workout powders may contain lower quality ingredients or lower doses of active ingredients, which can make them less effective. It's always a good idea to carefully review the ingredient list and dosage information before making a purchase.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pre-workout powder can be a challenge, but by considering factors such as ingredients, dosage, flavor and mixability, and price, you can find a product that meets your needs and helps you achieve your fitness goals. Always read the label carefully and follow the recommended dosage to avoid any unwanted side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is pre-workout powder good for you?

Pre-workout powders are primarily used to enhance physical performance and energy levels, but the research doesn't fully support all the claimed benefits. While they are generally considered safe for healthy adults, pre-workout powders are not essential for overall health or performance.

2. What does preworkout powder do?

Pre-workout powders are designed to aid in recovery and reduce fatigue after intense workouts. They often contain ingredients like caffeine to help improve focus, provide energy, and enhance overall performance during exercise.

3. What not to mix with pre-workout?

Pre-workout powders can generally be mixed with any liquid, but it is advisable to avoid mixing them with other caffeinated or stimulating drinks, such as energy drinks, to prevent excessive intake of caffeine or stimulating ingredients.

4. Who shouldn't take pre-workout?

Individuals with cardiovascular conditions or sensitivities to stimulants should avoid taking pre-workout supplements. The stimulants in these supplements can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which can be dangerous for those with existing heart problems.

5. Is it OK to use pre-workout everyday?

Using pre-workout supplements daily is generally fine, but it is important to choose a high-quality supplement made from clean ingredients without harmful additives. Personal medical history should also be considered, and it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if there are any concerns.

6. What happens if I take preworkout everyday?

Taking pre-workout supplements daily may lead to dehydration, especially if they cause a decrease in thirst due to their stimulant effects. Dehydration can result in symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, and decreased athletic performance.

7. How does pre-workout affect your heart?

Pre-workout supplements often contain high doses of caffeine, which can lead to increased heart rate, chest pain, and other heart-related issues. The concentrated dose of caffeine in these supplements can have an impact on heart health.

8. Does C4 give you a pump?

C4 Ultimate is known to provide a noticeable burst of energy, powerful pumps, improved muscular endurance, intense focus, and peak performance. Users can experience these effects with just one scoop of the supplement.

9. What does C4 do to your body?

C4 Original Pre-Workout contains ingredients like creatine nitrate and beta-alanine, which work together to reduce muscle fatigue. It also includes citrulline and arginine to enhance blood circulation, resulting in improved strength and performance over time.

Editor's Notes

During our pre-workout powder research, we found 24 pre-workout powder products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 671,585 customer reviews through our big data system to write the pre-workout powders list. We found that most customers choose pre-workout powders with an average price of $21.46.

The pre-workout powders are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of pre-workout powders, including Cellucor, Jacked Factory, ALPHA LION, RSP NUTRITION, BSN. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Bonnie Salem Avatar

Bonnie Salem is a stay-at-home mother with two-year-old twins and has spent almost half of her life surrounded by baby products. As a mother and a professional copywriter, she has an insightful and unique eye for researching products suitable for infants. Bonnie Salem is an expert in health and nutrition who lives with her family in New Jersey. She has over 15 years of working experience in an institute of medicine after graduating from the University of Toronto. She is highly interested in personal health and wellness.

Pre-Workout Powders Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Cellucor Cellucor Cellucor Jacked Factory Cellucor ALPHA LION RSP NUTRITION BSN Six Star MuscleTech
Flavor Fruit Punch Hawaiian Punch Arctic Snow Cone Cherry Limeade Icy Blue Razz Alpha Punch Pink Lemonade Fruit Punch Watermelon V2 Miami Spring Break
Unit Count 7.1 Ounce 8.6068 Ounce 8.7 Ounce 8.88 Ounce 6.87 Ounce 10.58 Ounce 8.68 Ounce 19.52 Ounce 9.63 Ounce 9.6 Ounce
Item Form Powder Powder Powder Powder Powder Powder Powder Powder Powder Powder
Item Weight 7.41 Ounces 244 Grams 7.5 Ounces 30 Grams 6.35 Ounces 0.79 Pounds 0.27 Kilograms 1.22 Pounds 9.63 Ounces 0.79 Pounds
Product Benefits Circulation Support, Metabolism Management, Muscle Growth, Supports Electrolyte Balance Circulation Support, Energy Management, Metabolism Management, Muscle Growth, Supports Electrolyte Balance Energy Management Energy Management Energy Management, Circulation Support, Metabolism Management, Muscle Growth, Supports Electrolyte Balance Long-Lasting, All Day Energy, Elevated Training Endurance, And Increased Strength Energy Management Energy Management - Muscle Growth, Energy Management
Item dimensions L x W x H 3.6 x 3.6 x 4 inches - 3.6 x 3.6 x 4 inches 3.15 x 2.36 x 1.57 inches 3.5 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches - 3.66 x 3.66 x 4.53 inches 3.79 x 3.79 x 5.29 inches - 4 x 4 x 5.15 inches
Diet Type Keto, Gluten Free, Vegan Keto, Kosher Keto, Gluten Free Vegan Keto, Gluten Free, Vegan - Keto Vegetarian - -
Special Ingredients L-Arginine, Taurine, Beta-Alanine, Creatine L-Arginine, Beta-Alanine, Creatine Beta-Alanine, L-Carnitine L-Citrulline, Beta Alanine, Caffeine Amino Acid, Beta-Alanine, Creatine - - Creatine - -
Age Range (Description) - Adult - Adult - Adult Adult - Adult Adult
Primary Supplement Type Magnesium, Vitamin B12, Creatine, Potassium, Vitamin B6 Calcium, Magnesium, Vitamin B12, Potassium, Vitamin B6 multivitamin - Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, Creatine, Potassium, Vitamin B6 - - Creatine - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
Where to Buy