Creatine monohydrate vs other forms
Walk down a supplement aisle and you'll see creatine monohydrate, creatine HCl, buffered creatine and more. Here's what those names mean and how to choose between them.
Creatine monohydrate
Creatine monohydrate is creatine bound to a water molecule. It's the form used in most creatine research, it's widely available, and it's usually the simplest label on the shelf: creatine, and not much else.
Micronized creatine
Micronized creatine is still creatine monohydrate, milled into finer particles so it mixes into a drink more easily. Same ingredient, different texture.
Creatine HCl
Creatine hydrochloride (HCl) is creatine bound to hydrochloric acid. It's often marketed as dissolving better or needing a smaller serving. If you're weighing it against monohydrate, ask whether the brand can point to research showing it works better, not just that it dissolves differently.
Buffered creatine and other blends
Buffered creatine and multi-form blends are sold with claims about stability or comfort. As with HCl, the useful question is what evidence supports the claim compared with plain monohydrate, and what you're paying per serving for it.
How to choose
- Start with monohydrate. It's the most researched and usually the best value.
- Read the label. Look for the amount of creatine per serving and a short ingredient list.
- Check testing. Third-party testing confirms the tub contains what the label says. Every product we sell is third-party tested.
- Be consistent. Whatever you choose, it only helps if you take it every day.
What we carry
Both creatines in our shop are creatine monohydrate: Atlas Performance Creatine (2,500mg Pürest creatine per scoop, unflavored) and HPN C2 Pürest Creatine.
Quick answers
Is creatine HCl better than monohydrate?
Creatine monohydrate is the form used in most research. If a brand claims HCl works better, look for evidence comparing the two directly.
Is micronized creatine different from monohydrate?
No. Micronized creatine is monohydrate milled finer so it mixes more easily.
Which creatine do you sell?
Atlas Performance Creatine and HPN C2 Pürest Creatine, both creatine monohydrate.
Sources
Keep reading
This guide is general information, not medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Talk to your doctor before starting a supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, take medication or have a medical condition.