Posted by
David Rosales
If your goal is to build muscle, then protein powder and creatine should be on your shortlist of supplements. The reality is, you should be taking both anyway, whether you want to build lean muscle mass or improve performance. In this article I’ll help you kill two birds with one stone and find a protein powder with creatine included.
Protein powder is an essential supplement for many athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts, as it helps repair and build muscle tissue. Creatine, on the other hand, is a naturally occurring compound found in our muscles, which helps increase muscle strength, power, and performance during high-intensity workouts. Combining these two supplements can deliver synergistic benefits, enhancing your athletic performance and overall gains.
When looking for the best protein powder with creatine, there are several critical factors to consider. The type of protein (e.g., whey, casein, or plant-based), creatine content, and additional beneficial ingredients should all be taken into account.
However, as you probably know firsthand, you’ll always want a protein that tastes good, mixes well, and is cost-effective.
Look like this guy
Ultimately, finding the best protein powder with creatine boils down to personal preferences and fitness goals. We have researched and tested various products in this category to help you make an informed decision that meets your specific needs and leads you to the best possible results. Let’s dive into the top options available.
Best Protein Powders with Creatine in 2024
Note: We do have affiliate links throughout this article, which means we receive a commission if you purchase from any of our links. This isn’t your first time on the internet, so you likely already knew this.
Here’s our list of the top protein powders with creatine to help you reach your fitness goals. Find the perfect match for your workout regimen.
1) Kaged Re-Kaged
We believe the Kaged Re-Kaged Post-Workout Protein Powder is a great option for those looking to enhance muscle recovery and strength after intense workouts.
Pros
- Contains 28g of fast-acting 100% whey protein isolate
- ProHydrolase digestive enzymes
- 1.5g of Patented Creatine HCl
- 3g of plant-based L-glutamine
- Patented BetaPower Betaine for recovery support
- Non-GMO, no soy, and natural flavors
- The Orange Cream and Iced Lemon Cake Flavors are BOMB
Cons
- May be too sweet for some tastes
- No chocolate or vanilla flavors
- Only 20 servings per container
The Kaged Re-Kaged Post-Workout Protein Powder offers an impressive 28g of fast-acting whey protein isolate per serving, ensuring delivery of a complete amino acid profile for muscle recovery and growth. In fact, it’s the only product on our list with 100% isolate protein. If you don’t know, isolate proteins are ultrafiltered to remove excess fats and fillers. While other products use some isolate, this one is the only one that only uses isolate.
Its formula includes essential amino acids (EAAs), branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and other beneficial amino acids, all necessary for optimizing post-workout gains. Additionally, Kaged Re-Kaged incorporates high-quality, patented ingredients, such as BetaPower, Creatine HCl, and fermented glutamine to further enhance post-workout results.
One unique feature of Kaged Re-Kaged is its use of ProHydrolase technology. This premium enzyme blend breaks down whey protein into smaller particles, improving digestion and absorption. This process occurs in real-time when you mix the powder with liquid, ensuring you get the most out of your supplement when you need it the most.
Kaged Re-Kaged is dedicated to providing clean and effective supplements for athletes. Their whey protein isolate is non-GMO, soy-free, and uses only natural flavors. You can enjoy the unique and delicious Orange Cream flavor, knowing it doesn’t contain any artificial flavors or colors.
It’s also Informed Sport Certified, so it’s safe for athletes competing at any level, and banned-substance free.
Lastly, I have to talk about the flavors. This product doesn’t come in chocolate or vanilla but in original and incredible flavors: Orange Cream, Iced Lemon Cake, and Strawberry Lemonade. I’ve had all three. Personally, the orange is my favorite.
However, despite its many advantages, Kaged Re-Kaged does come with a few drawbacks. Due to its high-quality ingredients and patented compounds, the protein powder is a bit more expensive than regular whey protein, but competitively-priced for all it offers. Some users also find the taste too sweet, but I would say just dilute it a bit more if that’s you.. Lastly, with only 20 servings per container, you might need to restock more frequently.
Overall, Kaged Re-Kaged Post-Workout Protein Powder offers impressive muscle recovery support, utilizing high-quality ingredients and innovative technology. Though it may be more expensive and possess limited servings per container, we believe the exceptional formula makes it a worthwhile investment for optimal post-workout results.
For all of these reasons, Re-Kaged is our #1 pick for protein powder with creatine.
2) MuscleTech Nitro-Tech Whey Protein Powder
MuscleTech Nitro-Tech is a great protein for those looking to gain lean muscle, increase strength, and enhance performance with a bonus of creatine.
Pros
- 30g of protein per scoop
- 5g of glutamine, 6.8g BCAA, and 3g creatine monohydrate included for better results
- Fast-digesting
- Pretty good flavor
Cons
- Kind of expensive
- NOT 100% isolate
- Tub size may be misleading
- Some users may find the flavor too sweet
MuscleTech Nitro-Tech is a whey protein powder that combines isolate and peptides, offering a powerful formula for anyone looking to build lean muscle and enhance their performance. With a combination of glutamine, BCAA, and HPLC-tested creatine monohydrate, this formula is designed to help users achieve better results in terms of muscle gain and strength.
Not only does Nitro-Tech include essential ingredients for muscle growth, but it also boasts fast absorption and easy digestion. This means users can experience quicker recovery times and make the most out of their training sessions.
It’s a higher initial price point, and doesn’t have as much protein as the big-looking tub will lead you to believe. It only offers 40 servings compared to some other 5-pound containers with more servings. Lastly, some reviewers complained the taste was too sweet. I thought the taste was pretty good, but nothing special.
Another advantage of this one is the higher creatine content, with 3g per scoop.
3) Cellucor Whey Sport Protein Powder
Pros
- Rich in whey protein, creatine, and glutamine
- NSF-certified so it’s safer for athletes
- Great taste and available in chocolate and vanilla flavors
Cons
- Only 15g of protein per scoop
- Some users reported occasional packaging inconsistencies
- Contains artificial flavors
Cellucor Whey Sport Protein Powder Vanilla is developed to enhance muscle recovery after intense workouts by providing a generous 30g of whey protein, 2.5g of creatine, and 2g of glutamine per two scoops. This well-balanced formula is designed to be consumed within 30 minutes of exercising to promote lean muscle gains and optimal recovery.
Being NSF-certified, you can trust its quality and reliability. The certification is recognized by organizations such as the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), Major League Baseball, the National Hockey League, and more. This ensures that the product is up to standards, and that what’s on the label is in the bottle.
However, if you’re looking to avoid artificial sweeteners, the inclusion of sucralose in this product might be a concern. They also use artificial flavors, which definitely aren’t good for you. Some customers have also reported occasional inconsistencies in the packaging, affecting the overall product quality.
In conclusion, Cellucor Whey Sport Protein Powder Vanilla is an excellent choice for post-workout muscle recovery, particularly if you prioritize taste and quality. The drawbacks are the small serving and the artificial ingredients. While there are a few minor drawbacks, its delicious flavor, reliable certification, and balance of vital ingredients make it a noteworthy product for those who wish to maximize their workout results.
4) Dymatize Super Mass Gainer Protein Powder
If you’re looking to put on mass, then Dymatize has you covered. This is not a traditional protein powder, but a mass gainer.
It’s NOT for you if you’re just looking for protein. It’s high-calorie, high-carb, and high-protein.
Pros
- High calories (1310) and protein (52g) per serving for effective mass gain
- Blend of fast, medium, and slow-digesting proteins for continuous support
- Contains 10.7g BCAAs, creatine, 17 vitamins and minerals, and glutamine for overall muscle health
Cons
- Mass gainers may lead to some fat gain
- Lots of carbs, so it’s not suitable for everyone
Dymatize Super Mass Gainer Protein Powder is specifically designed to cater to those who struggle with gaining weight due to fast metabolism or busy lifestyles. The product includes a comprehensive formula featuring whey and casein proteins, providing immediate and long-lasting nourishment to your muscles.
The combination of various proteins, BCAAs, creatine, vitamins, minerals, and glutamine work together to ensure that you’re able to build muscle efficiently, maintain a balanced diet, and recover after intense workouts. With a whopping 245g of carbohydrates per serving, it delivers sufficient energy for burning and importantly, preserves muscle mass by preventing it from being used as fuel.
However, the serving size may be a deterrent for some, as consuming the recommended 2 and a half cups can be a tough task.
In conclusion, Dymatize Super Mass Gainer Protein Powder is an excellent option for those who face challenges in putting on mass. This well-rounded product offers a comprehensive nutritional solution to help you gain weight and build strength effectively, as long as you can overcome the serving size and taste preferences.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best protein powder with creatine, there are several factors we need to consider. This buying guide will help us navigate through those factors and make an informed decision.
Ingredients
First, let’s look at the ingredients. We want to find a protein powder that offers a blend of high-quality protein sources, such as whey, casein, or plant-based proteins. Additionally, the creatine content should be sufficient – usually around 3-5 grams per serving is ideal.
Protein source: Choose a product with a high-quality protein source. This may include:
- Whey protein
- Casein protein
- A blend
We gave a nod to products that use isolate forms of protein over concentrate forms. That’s because isolate forms are ultrafiltered and have less sugar, fat, and lactose.
Creatine: Look for a product 1.5-3g of creatine per serving. Both creatine monohydrate and creatine HCl are common and effective forms.
Taste and Mixability
The taste and mixability of the protein powder is also an important factor. We want a product that tastes good and is easy to mix with water or milk.
All of these products mix really well, since they use whey as a base, however the taste and flavors very. If you like fruity flavors, Re-Kaged is for you. If you prefer a classic chocolate, then Muscle Tech or Cellucor might have what you’re looking for.
Cost
Price is another factor to consider, as we want to find a high-quality product at a reasonable price. Compare the price per serving across different products to find one that meets our budget without sacrificing quality.
Reviews
Finally, consider reading reviews from other users who have tried the product. This can provide valuable insights into any potential issues or positive experiences with the product.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of whey protein and creatine combined?
Creatine has been shown to help increase strength, muscle mass, and recovery in between sets. It’s a staple for athletes and bodybuilders, and one of the most well-researched supplements in existence (1). Protein helps you reach similar goals, as it’s vital for muscle building and recovery. However, they work through completely different mechanisms.
Whey protein is known for its rapid absorption and rich amino acid profile, which helps promote muscle growth and repair. Creatine, on the other hand, increases our body’s ability to produce energy, especially during high-intensity workouts.
Together, these supplements can lead to enhanced muscle strength, improved endurance, and faster recovery times. In short, this powerful duo helps us get the most out of our workouts and achieve our fitness goals more effectively.
What’s the best form of creatine?
There are several forms of creatine available on the market, but creatine monohydrate is widely considered the best option for most people. It boasts a higher rate of absorption than other alternatives, making it more effective in delivering its benefits to our muscles.
Additionally, creatine monohydrate is well-researched and has been proven safe and effective in numerous studies. It is also more affordable than other forms of creatine, making it a popular choice for fitness enthusiasts of all levels.
With that said, Creatine HCl is also a safe, well-researched, effective form that mixes better than creatine monohydrate (2).
Are there any side effects when consuming creatine and protein together?
Generally speaking, consuming creatine and protein together is safe and well-tolerated. However, as with any supplement, it’s crucial to follow the recommended dosages and guidelines provided by the manufacturer or a healthcare professional.
Some individuals may experience minor side effects like bloating, stomach discomfort, or mild dehydration when first introducing these supplements to their regimen. Drinking plenty of water and adjusting the dosage accordingly can help alleviate any issues. If side effects persist or worsen despite these adjustments, it’s best to consult a medical professional for further guidance.
Remember that whey protein comes from milk, so it does contain some lactose. If you’re looking to avoid lactose, check out this article on the best lactose free protein powders.
Are there plant-based options for protein with creatine?
The most popular plant-based protein powder is pea protein. Pea protein has some advantages over whey protein, as we covered in this article on pea vs whey protein, but in general whey is the standard.
If you’re looking for a plant-based protein powder with creatine, you’ll have to buy two separate products. First, look into options for a high-quality plant-based protein. From there, grab some unflavored creatine powder and add it to your protein. For some options on this, check out this article on the best vegan creatine supplements.
