Top 5 Best Pre-Workout Supplements (2023) Most Effective Brands Ranked
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Over the past few years, more people are shifting their focus to improving their overall health and well-being by changing their diet, increasing physical activity, and adding supplements to their daily routine.
Most people, as long as they do not have a disability, can work out at home or in the gym. Unfortunately, most of us work 8+-hour days, so by the time we get off work, we’re too tired to do anything except go home and crash. We are so mentally and physically exhausted that we can’t do anything else. This is where a pre-workout supplement can help.
Pre-workout supplements, called pre-workouts for short, can improve workout performance and results. Research has proven that these supplements can give you the physical and mental energy needed to power through even the most intense workout session, which will help you reach your overall health and fitness goals. Also, when you want to skip the workout, a pre-workout will give you the motivation and energy you need.
Due to all of the above reasons, these supplements are in high demand. The manufacturers are seeing this demand, which is why they offer a wide variety of options. You can find many high-quality options on the market- whether online or at your local health food or grocery store. On the other hand, many manufacturers are putting supplements on the market that can’t be trusted.
Some pre-workouts are formulated specifically for men or women, and either can use others. Some are targeted, while others are created to reach several goals, including:
- Encourage muscle growth
- Provide energy
- Reduce recovery time
- Minimize fatigue following a workout
- Burning fat
As mentioned, there are lots of different options on the market. While variety can be a good thing- it can also be frustrating because it makes it hard to choose. It’s important to remember that your choice of supplement is personal. No one product will be “perfect” for everyone. Take the time to consider your situation and goals.
However, you don’t have to let yourself get frustrated with all of the options. We are here to guide you through the world of pre-workout supplements. We have reviewed dozens of supplements and chosen what we feel are the top 5 pre-workout supplements for 2023. If you are interested in using these supplements to improve your overall health and well-being, we recommend starting with one. After all, these supplements have passed our tests and can be trusted.
There are several things we looked at when creating our list:
- Ingredients/Artificial Ingredients
- Dosages
- Honesty and reputation of the manufacturer
- Transparency of manufacturer
- Price vs. value
Finally, remember that if you are not thrilled with the first one you try, you are not stuck with it. You can feel free to experiment with these supplements as much as you like. After all, there’s no reason to use something that will not help you reach your goals.
The Top 5 Pre-Workout Supplements for 2023
We took the time to review dozens of pre-workouts and narrowed down the options to what we feel are the top 5. We encourage you to start here if you want to add a pre-workout to improve your performance. If you don’t like the first one you choose, try something different. The good thing about these supplements is that you can experiment until you find one that works.
The top 5 pre-workout supplements we will review are:
- XWERKS Ignite
- PreLab Pro
- CrazyNutrition Intensive Pre-Train
- Transparent Labs
- TestoPrime
XWERKS Ignite

In the health and fitness industry, XWERKS is one of the most well-known and respected names you’ll hear. Their supplements are some of the best, and their pre-workout, Ignite, doesn’t disappoint.
Ignite is entirely different from many other options, as it is one of the most potent options on the market, and there are nearly zero side effects. Many pre-workouts will give you the energy to power through your workout, and then you’ll crash when it wears off. However, Ignite is formulated to increase nitric oxide levels in your body. It gives you the energy to get through even the most intense workout and gradually wears off, gently bringing you back down.
You don’t have to worry about crashing in the middle or right after your workout when using Ignite. You will have all of the energy you need without consuming additional caffeine.
XWERKS Ignite contains the following ingredients:
- L-tyrosine
- Rhodiola rosea
- Beta-alanine
- Vitamins B6 and B12
- Caffeine
This combination of ingredients is specifically formulated to prevent physical and mental fatigue. In addition, XWERKS promises to give you the explosive energy you need to power through an intense workout. Ignite will also improve your endurance, increase muscle mass, and encourage faster muscle repair and recovery.
XWERKS Ignite costs $49 for 30 servings. They have a “Subscribe & Save” program that allows you to choose when you want it shipped- every 15 to 90 days. This program saves you 5% on each package, bringing the cost to $46.55 each.
Ignite is available in 4 delicious flavors:
- Blue Raspberry
- Green Apple
- Orange
- Watermelon
Product Name: XWERKS Ignite
Type: Powder
Ingredients: Beta-Alanine, Vitamins B6 & B12, Caffeine, L-tyrosine, Rhodiola Rosea
Dosage: One serving daily
Side Effects: None
Cost/Servings: $49 for 30 servings
Guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee
PreLab Pro

The second pre-workout on our list is PreLab Pro, which promises to improve stamina and strength during even the most intense workouts. The company also promises that its formula will increase energy levels, reduce recovery time, and much more.
Most people notice results quickly with PreLab Pro. Many people report feeling a difference from the very first dose. They report having more energy, feeling more confident, and recovering quicker than before. Due to these benefits, they put more effort into their workout, making it much more effective.
Pre-Lab Pro is made with the following ingredients, which are backed by science:
- Natural caffeine
- L-theanine
- Setria performance blend
- Beetroot powder
Plus, the price is only $59.00 for 20 servings. The company does not offer a subscription program but does offer a bulk discount. You can purchase four packages for $177.00, which drops the price to only $44.25 each.
Product Name: PreLab Pro
Type: Powder
Ingredients: L-theanine, Natural caffeine, Beetroot powder, Setria performance blend
Dosage: One serving daily
Side Effects: None
Cost/Servings: $59.00 for 20 servings
Guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee
CrazyNutrition Intensive Pre-Train

CrazyNutrition was founded in 2013, which means they have only been around for about ten years, making them one of the youngest companies on our list. Their pre-workout, Intensive Pre-Train, contains a blend of ingredients that promise to improve workout performance, boost energy without jitters or crashes, improve blood flow, reduce muscle fatigue, and much more.
Intensive Pre-train contains the following ingredients:
- KSM-66 ashwagandha
- Piperine
- Citrulline malate
- L-tyrosine
- L-arginine
- Betaine anhydrous
- Beta-alanine
- Taurine
- EnXtra caffeine booster
- Vitamin C
- Whey protein
This blend of ingredients is 100% safe and natural. The whey protein increases muscle mass, and the amino acid profile reduces side effects.
CrazyNutrition Intensive Pre-Train is available in three flavors:
- Green Apple (caffeine free)
- Fruit Punch
- Blue Raspberry
Each package contains 20 servings for only $39.99. CrazyNutrition does offer a “Subscribe & Save” program, which drops the price to only $31.99 per package. You choose how often you want it delivered.
Product Name: CrazyNutrition Intensive Pre-Train
Type: Powder
Ingredients: Beta-alanine, KSM-66 ashwagandha, Vitamin C, EnXtra caffeine booster, Citrulline malate, Betaine anhydrous, L-arginine, L-tyrosine
Dosage: One serving daily
Side Effects: None
Cost/Servings: $39.99 for 20 servings
Guarantee: 60-day money-back guarantee
Transparent Labs Preseries

The fourth pre-workout on our list is from Transparent Labs, a company with a reputation in the health and fitness industry for producing high-quality supplements. They have not 1, but 6 different pre-workout formulas:
- Stim-Free
- Stim-Booster
- Lean
- Bulk
- Jesse James West
- HowToBeast
While these formulas are targeted to reach specific goals, they are all ideal for increasing energy and building muscle mass. The ingredients found in Transparent Labs Preseries are backed by science and include:
- Beta-alanine
- Potassium
- Vitamins B6 & B12
- Theobromine
- Vitamin D3
- L-tyrosine
- Boron
- Zinc
- Taurine
- L-theanine
- Sodium
- Caffeine
If you are looking for a high-quality supplement that is targeted to meet specific goals, Transparent Labs Preseries is worth considering. Each package offers 30 servings for only $49.99. The company does offer a “Subscribe & Save” program that allows you to save 10% on every purchase, dropping the price to $44.99 per container.
There are several different flavor options available, so boredom is not a concern:
- Sour Grape
- Tropical Punch
- Orange
- Blue Raspberry
- Strawberry Lemonade
- Green Apple
Product Name: Transparent Labs Preseries
Type: Powder
Ingredients: Beta-alanine, Potassium, Vitamins B6 & B12, Theobromine, Vitamin D3, L-tyrosine, Boron, Zinc, Taurine, L-theanine, Sodium, Caffeine
Dosage: One serving daily
Side Effects: None
Cost/Servings: $44.99 for 30 servings
Guarantee: 60-day money-back guarantee
TestoPrime

The last pre-workout on our list is TestoPrime, well-known and respected in the health and fitness industry. This pre-workout is specifically formulated for men with low testosterone levels.
According to the website, TestoPrime offers several benefits:
- Increases lean muscle mass
- Improves physical and mental energy
- Stimulates protein synthesis
- Increases testosterone levels
- Burns stubborn fat
- Enhances confidence
- Boosts motivation
In addition, the company promises that its product works faster and better than other options- without stimulants. TestoPrime contains the following ingredients:
- Fenugreek
- Panax ginseng
- D-aspartic acid
- KSM-66 ashwagandha
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin B5 & B6
- Green tea extract
- Black pepper extract
- Pomegranate extract
- Garlic extract
This combination of ingredients makes it the perfect option for men with low T who enjoy working out. Of course, it is essential to note that results vary like with every supplement. Some people will achieve results quickly, while others take longer. However, one thing is sure: results are always favorable.
The amino acid profile significantly reduces the risk of side effects and supports even the most intense workout.
Each bottle contains 120 capsules, a 30-day supply, and costs $59.99. The company does not offer a subscription program, but they do offer a bulk discount. You can purchase a 3-month supply for only $119.99 ($39.99 each) or a 6-month supply for only $179.99 ($29.99 each).
Product Name: TestoPrime
Type: Capsule
Ingredients: Fenugreek, Panax ginseng, D-aspartic acid, KSM-66 ashwagandha, Vitamin D, Vitamin B5 & B6, Green tea extract, Black pepper extract, Pomegranate extract, Garlic extract
Dosage: One serving (4 capsules) daily
Side Effects: None
Cost/Servings: $59.99 for 30 servings
Guarantee: Lifetime money-back guarantee (only one bottle qualifies)
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pre-Workout
When it comes to pre-workout supplements, the market is flooded with options, primarily because the FDA does not monitor health and fitness supplements; since there are so many options, it’s critical to take the time to evaluate them so that you avoid those that may be dangerous or ineffective. After all, many companies make big promises they don’t live up to.
The good news is that there is a lot of information out there that can help you make a decision. Unfortunately, this information can be complicated and confusing for the average consumer.
Below, we will go over the factors used to determine which pre-workouts should be included on our list. These factors are a great way to assess the effectiveness of a pre-workout and whether it’s worth the price.
Does the Formula Include Scientifically Backed Ingredients?
First, it’s important to note that a long list of potential ingredients may be found in pre-workouts. Therefore, paying attention to the ingredient list and choosing a pre-workout with ingredients backed by science is essential. This allows you to ensure they will be effective and not dangerous. Some of the elements that are commonly found in pre-workouts include:
- Nitric Oxide Precursors
- Nitric oxide
Several ingredients improve nitric oxide production, including:
- L-arginine
- L-citrulline
- Beetroot juice
According to research, these nitric oxide precursors increase the nutrient and oxygen supply to your muscles, ultimately improving your athletic performance. However, while l-citrulline directly impacts performance, l-arginine only impacts nitric oxide production because it is broken down in the digestive system before reaching the bloodstream.
Caffeine
Another common ingredient found in pre-workouts is caffeine. This is due to
- research showing that it can:
- Increase mental alertness
- Improve performance
- Improve memory
- Reduce body fat
- Creatine
Your body naturally produces creatine and stores it in the muscles to give you the strength and power for explosive movements. Most people can get what they need from dietary sources, also commonly found in the supplement world. It can be included in pre-workout formulas or sold as a standalone supplement.
Beta-Alanine
According to health and fitness experts, beta-alanine prevents the buildup of lactic acid in the muscles- which is the chemical that causes muscle soreness and fatigue during workouts. By avoiding this soreness and fatigue, you can put more effort into your training, making it more effective. It’s important to note that some people report a tingling sensation when taking beta-alanine, but this side effect is completely harmless and typically mild. If you cannot deal with it, reduce your dosage or find a pre-workout that does not contain this ingredient.
BCAAs
BCAAs, or branched-chain amino acids, have been proven to reduce soreness and increase muscle growth. Since these amino acids are found in protein sources, you probably get what you need- but supplementation won’t hurt.
Artificial Ingredients
In addition to ensuring the ingredients are backed by scientific research, you need to check the product for artificial ingredients, sweeteners, and other additives. In recent years, many people have become more health-conscious and are avoiding these things. The good news is you can trust that the products on our list are 100% free of these things.
Clinically-Proven Dosages
Many supplements on the market look good because they contain all the right ingredients. Unfortunately, in some cases, the dosages of these ingredients are so low that they have little to no impact on your workout.
Also, it’s important to note that some manufacturers use fancy words like “proprietary blend” on their labels. This allows them to keep ingredients and dosages a secret. If you encounter these products, it’s best to avoid them since it’s unclear what is in them. You don’t want to risk taking something dangerous, and you don’t want to waste your money on something ineffective.
Honest Claims
While you would hope that these companies would be honest since the health and well-being of their customers are at stake, the truth is they are not always. Many manufacturers exaggerate the benefits of their products, including making promises for instant results. When you hear claims that are too good to be true, they probably are, and you should avoid that product.
Manufacturer Reputation
Many health and fitness supplement manufacturers have been in the industry for some time and have built a reputation. Then again, some want to cash in on the popularity of supplements like this. These newer companies don’t necessarily take the time to do their research before releasing products.
While it’s true that new does not always equal bad, it’s probably best to stick with companies that have built a solid reputation in the industry.
Manufacturer Transparency
Another thing you’ll want to consider when it comes to the manufacturer is their transparency. Since the FDA does not monitor the supplement industry, many products undergo third-party testing. If a product is put through third-party testing and deemed safe, it will receive a seal. If there is no seal from a testing company, it may not be a trustworthy, safe supplement.
Also, if a company claims its products are third-party tested, it should be willing to release the testing results. If not, chances are the results were terrible- or there may not be any results because the company lied about the testing.
Price vs. Value
Due to the variety of products, you’ll also encounter a wide range of price points. This is probably the most challenging part of finding a good pre-workout. It’s important to remember that price isn’t always an indicator of quality when it comes to health and fitness supplements. The most expensive one on the market may not always be the one that will meet your needs. On the other hand, just because it’s “cheap” doesn’t mean it will be ineffective. Finding the right supplement for the right price can be challenging. You may have to try several different ones before you settle on one.
The Top 5 Pre-Workout Supplements for 2023 Conclusion
In recent years, there has been a shift in our focus. More people are focusing on their overall health and wellness. They are making changes to their lifestyle habits and working out more. One way to get the most from workouts is to use a pre-workout.
Unfortunately, there are so many options and insufficient information that it can be hard to decide which is the best. The good news is, you don’t have to worry about it. We did the work for you. We researched and tried dozens of supplements and narrowed down the options to what we feel are the five best ones.
If you want to start using a pre-workout, we recommend starting with one from this list. These have passed all the tests and proven safe and effective. If you try one and you don’t get the results you are looking for, try something else. You can feel free to experiment with supplements all you want- but make sure you give them time to work; none of them will work overnight.
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Disclaimer:
Please understand that any advice or guidelines revealed here are not even remotely substitutes for sound medical or financial advice from a licensed healthcare provider or certified financial advisor. Make sure to consult with a professional physician or financial consultant before making any purchasing decision if you use medications or have concerns following the review details shared above. Individual results may vary and are not guaranteed as the statements regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration or Health Canada. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA, or Health Canada approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease and do not provide any kind of get-rich money scheme. Reviewer is not responsible for pricing inaccuracies. Check product sales page for final prices.
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