Since you’re here, you have most likely heard of branched-chain amino acids — or at least of the abbreviation, BCAA. They’re a group of 3 essential amino acids; leucine, isoleucine, and valine.
This supplement aims to improve your performance at the gym and help you achieve great results. Its purpose is to help you stay energized and maintain both your health and your physique, even during high physical stress.
We’ve created this list to help you find the very best bcaa for men available on the market. Read on to find out how to make your top pick.
An Overview Of The Best Branch-Chain Amino Acid Supplements
We may earn a commission when you buy certain products through the links on this page. Note that this does not influence the content created by our team. Read our full Affiliate Disclosure. Bodylogix Natural BCAA
Key Features
- Good price-value ratio
- Third-party tested
- Great for people with specific food allergies
- Clear and detailed official website
Cellucor Alpha Amino BCAA
Key Features
- Contains coconut water powder for extra benefits
- Great money-saving deals on the website
- No bitter taste
- Quick results
BPI Sports
Key Features
- Student discount
- Lots of positive reviews on the official website
- Improves recovery time
- Plenty of different flavors
The Protein Works BCAA Powder
Key Features
- Dissolves fully
- Good for concentration
- Lifetime guarantee
- Price-match promise
Transparent Labs CoreSeries BCAA Glutamine
Key Features
- No fillers or additives
- 90-day money-back guarantee
- Great for the immune system
- Certificate of analysis on the official website
Perform Pre-Workout BCAAs
Key Features
- Great for many who are on a specific diet
- Boosts your immune system
- Provides amazing hydration
- Caffeine-free
Naked Nutrition BCAAs
Key Features
- Certified vegan and gluten-free
- Helps quickly with soreness
- Pure formula with nothing to hide
- Good price for the number of servings
Cellucor BCAA Sport
Key Features
- NSF-approved
- Doesn’t have a negative impact on your digestion
- Active customer service
Myprotein Essential BCAA 2:1:1 Powder
Key Features
- Great for intermittent fasting
- Mixes well with cold water
- Prevents muscle damage
- Plenty of available sizes
Bodylogix Fermented
Key Features
- No artificial colors, sweeteners, or preservatives
- Great for anyone with different food allergies
- NSF-approved
- Easy to mix with shakes or juices due to having no sugar or flavor
Top BCAAs Reviewed
Bodylogix Natural BCAA
Key Features
- Sizes: 30 servings
- Flavors: Green Apple
- Shipping policy: Free standard shipping on orders over $69.00 before taxes
- Return policy: You can return the product within the first 30 days for a refund
If you’re looking for the best BCAA for men in 2022, look no further than Bodylogix Natural BCAA. We consider this to be the best one among all of these fantastic BCAAs.
Just like its name suggests, this BCAA is entirely natural. That means there are only natural sweeteners and flavors in it. Even though we love the fact there is no sugar, preservatives, or anything artificial in it, some customers have complained that its taste is not that great.
To avoid this one small downside, you can simply mix it with a bit more water to dilute the taste.
It contains 2500 mg L-leucine, 1250 mg L-isoleucine, 1250 mg L-valine, so you know it’s delivering that optimal 2:1:1 ratio. If you eat healthy and train regularly, as well as take this BCAA, you’ll build lean muscles in no time.
This all-natural BCAA supplement is made from plant-based sources, meaning it’s suitable even for vegans. It’s also perfect for people with other specific diet requirements, as it’s without soy and peanuts — and made in a peanut-free facility.
To ensure you’re putting one of the safest products on the market in your body, this BCAA underwent some severe testing. It’s IGEN non-GMO tested and NSF tested and certified. NSF is one of the best third party facilities for testing, so you know those results are authentic.
This product is perfect for pretty much anyone who wants an affordable BCAA. It costs only $1.00 per serving and is excellent for both professionals and regular men who lead an active lifestyle.
Pros
- + Good price-value ratio
- + Third-party tested
- + Great for people with specific food allergies
- + Clear and detailed official website
Cons
- − No international shipping
Cellucor Alpha Amino BCAA
Key Features
- Sizes: 30 servings
- Flavors: Watermelon, Lemon Lime, Icy Blue Razz, Fruit Punch, Grape
- Shipping policy: Free shipping if you subscribe
- Return policy: 30-day money-back guarantee
One of the best branch-chain amino acid supplements options, Cellucor Alpha Amino BCAA, comes in several tasty flavors. Unlike many other BCAA powders, it doesn’t taste bitter. On the contrary, many customers have praised the taste and have at least a couple of favorites.
This BCAA follows that studied and proven 2:1:1 ratio, so you know you’re getting the real deal. Moreover, it contains BetaPower Betaine and coconut water powder for some additional benefits, like helping you lose weight more quickly.
You can take it after a workout to stay hydrated and recover better, or you can take it on non-training days to help your muscles recover faster.
At the price of $24.99 for 30 servings, we think it might be the best BCAA for weight loss for the price. Plus, the company offers more than a few ways to save even more money, like by subscribing or joining the Rep Rewards program. So, if this product becomes a part of your routine, it won’t make a huge dent in your wallet.
It’s suitable for any guy, so it doesn’t matter if you’re a pro or just starting. It’s very straightforward to use, as well. Simply follow the instructions on the packaging for the amount of serving, put it in the right amount of water, stir it, and it’s ready for drinking.
However, we have found one small flaw. According to several customer reviews, it leaves the mouth a bit colored. So, you might not want to use it before important meetings or dates.
Pros
- + Contains coconut water powder for extra benefits
- + Great money-saving deals on the website
- + No bitter taste
- + Quick results
Cons
- − Some users didn’t like that it left their mouth colored
BPI Sports
Key Features
- Sizes: 30 servings
- Flavors: Arctic Ice, Blue Raspberry, Cherry Lime, Fruit Punch, Grape, Passion Fruit, Sour Candy, Rainbow Ice, Watermelon Ice, Goji Berry, Dragon Fruit, Blueberry Lemonade, Lemonade, Green Fusion
- Shipping policy: Free shipping on orders over $75.00
- Return policy: 30-day money-back guarantee
BPI Sports Best BCAA is another one of the products from our list. This BCAA comes in 14 tasty flavors, so you have plenty of choices. However, some customers have found the smell of some of them to be a bit weird. So if you can ignore that, we suggest you consider this BCAA, as it offers lots of benefits.
Since its return policy offers refunds up to 30 days from purchasing the product, you can rest assured that you won’t waste any money if you give it a shot and happen not to like it.
This is also one of the best BCAAs to take for muscle repair and recovery. With the proven 2:1:1 ratio and CLA Matrix, you know you’re getting a fast-absorbing product, which means relatively fast results.
It’s beneficial for any guy out there, regardless of the athletic routine. However, it is still best for those who are a bit more active, as it can help you perform better in the gym by boosting your endurance and preventing muscle breakdown.
Also, if you happen to be a student, and you’re wondering whether this is a good BCAA supplement for you, know that the company offers student discounts. So, if you’re looking to save a few bucks, this product might be just what you need.
Pros
- + Student discount
- + Lots of positive reviews on the official website
- + Improves recovery time
- + Plenty of different flavors
Cons
- − Some users complained of an unusual smell
The Protein Works BCAA Powder
Key Features
- Sizes: 250 g, 500 g, 1 kg
- Flavors: Berry Blitz, Blue Raspberry Juice, Classic Cola Pop, Green Apple Spike, Orange Burst, Tropical Punch, Unflavoured
- Shipping policy: Free shipping on orders over $67.06 (£50.00) or more in the UK, $8.48 (€6.99) or more for international shipping
- Return policy: You can return it within the first year of purchasing the product
Considered to be the top BCAA brand for energy, The Protein Works BCAA Powder is genuinely one of the highest quality BCAAs on the market. Unlike others, it’s not just BCAA; it’s iBCAA.
The “I” stands for “instantised,” which means you won’t get those lumps you usually get when you mix it with water, as it fully dissolves. That’s all thanks to its high tech manufacturing process. Not only does it ensure you get a quality product, but you will also get faster results if your goal is building muscles, and you can easily mix it with other supplements you might be using. It’s no wonder this product is among many people’s favorite branched chain amino acids, as reviews show.
This BCAA supplement combines three amino acids in that 2:1:1 ratio every good BCAA has to have. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to lead a healthy and active lifestyle, as it will help you stay energized during exercise and gain muscles more efficiently.
While it might be a bit more expensive than some others, it does come in several flavors and sizes and offers some standout features. Plus, there are ways to save, like by using the referral program. Moreover, if you find the same product for a better price anywhere else, the company will match it, which is probably one of the reasons why it’s one of the best-rated BCAA options.
Pros
- + Dissolves fully
- + Good for concentration
- + Lifetime guarantee
- + Price-match promise
Cons
- − Not vegan or vegetarian
Transparent Labs CoreSeries BCAA Glutamine
Key Features
- Sizes: 1 tub, 2 tubs, 3 tubs
- Flavors: Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch, Green Apple, Sour Grape, Orange, Strawberry Lemonade
- Shipping policy: Free shipping in the US on orders over $150.00
- Return policy: You can return the product within 90 days of purchase
Transparent Labs is a company that does its best to make high-quality products that provide amazing results.
It follows the 2:1:1 ratio, but it also contains glutamine and coconut water powder. That way, you get a fantastic product at a reasonable price. After all, this BCAA supplement helps you with your immune system, losing weight, gaining muscles, and reducing fatigue and damage to your muscles due to workout.
Considered by some customers to be the best BCAA on the market for men, this BCAA is one of the best and healthiest supplements that can help you achieve ideal body weight while building muscles.
Since it uses premium fermented vegan BCAAs, it’s suitable for those who don’t consume animal products. Furthermore, as it contains no artificial ingredients or gluten, even those with specific food intolerances can use it.
Although we wish it tasted a bit better, we can’t deny the company has a pretty good return policy. While others usually offer up to 30-day money-back guarantees, this brand offers refunds up to 90 days.
In short, you won’t lose money if you’re not satisfied. This is just one of the reasons why this is one of the best BCAA brands.
Pros
- + No fillers or additives
- + 90-day money-back guarantee
- + Great for the immune system
- + Certificate of analysis on the official website
Cons
- − Some customers complained that it doesn’t dissolve fully
Perform Pre-Workout BCAAs
Key Features
- Sizes: 375 g
- Flavors: Watermelon, Fruit Punch
- Shipping policy: Free ground shipping on orders of over ten units
- Return policy: You can return the product within the first 30 days with a possible 15% restocking fee policy, and you can’t get any refund on orders after the first 60 days
Perform Pre-Workout BCAAs is made according to the 2:1:1 ratio of leucine, isoleucine, and valine.
Unfortunately, many BCAAs use animal fur and skin for amino acids — but Perform doesn’t. All their sources are plant-based, which makes it ideal for almost anyone, no matter their diet.
It contains no sugar, gluten, carbohydrates, artificial flavors, or colors. While some might opt for caffeine to stay energized for exercise, this BCAA is caffeine-free.
This BCAA is best used before a workout to achieve maximum results. It’ll help you stay hydrated, as it’s filled with electrolytes, but there’s no sugar in it. Moreover, it will fight the fatigue in your muscles, protect them from damage, and help them recover faster.
It also contains glutamine. Glutamine will ensure your immune system stays healthy.
Although the return policy isn’t the best, as you might have to pay a restocking fee even within the first 30 days, they do guarantee the quality of their products, and we’re certain you’ll be satisfied.
So if you want a good BCAA supplement that comes in convenient packaging for a reasonable price, consider this brand.
Pros
- + Great for many who are on a specific diet
- + Boosts your immune system
- + Provides amazing hydration
- + Caffeine-free
Cons
- − Returns might incur a 15% restocking fee policy
Naked Nutrition BCAAs
Key Features
- Sizes: 100 servings (500 g)
- Flavors: Natural
- Shipping policy: Free shipping on purchases over $49
- Return policy: You can return unused or unopened items within the first 14 days for a full refund or exchange
If there’s anything this BCAA company prides itself upon, it’s the fact that they’re quite transparent and straightforward — making this product one of the top BCAA options. They also follow that 2:1:1 ratio of L-leucine, L-isoleucine, and L-valine, but with only one ingredient.
Furthermore, to prove just once more that Naked Nutrition BCAAs is reliable, it’s certified vegan and gluten-free. So if you are allergic to gluten or don’t eat any animal products, this is surely an option to consider.
This product is great for any guy who wants to gain muscles, speed up muscle recovery, and improve gym performance, since it increases your endurance. Actually, it’s the best BCAA for muscle gain you can find.
Several customers have reported that their soreness quickly went away with Naked Nutrition BCAAs.
Building muscle will also help with weight loss. However, if you’re looking for an extra kick, consider adding a fat burner to your supplement regime to kick it up a notch.
Although it tastes bitter, which can be expected from an all-natural product (and BCAAs are known for that unpleasant taste), it still offers a tremendous price-value ratio. It’s quite affordable at $35.00 for 100 servings.
Pros
- + Certified vegan and gluten-free
- + Helps quickly with soreness
- + Pure formula with nothing to hide
- + Good price for the number of servings
Cons
- − Quite unpleasant smell
Cellucor BCAA Sport
Key Features
- Sizes: 30 servings
- Flavors: Cherry Limeade
- Shipping policy: Free shipping if you subscribe
- Return policy: 30-day money-back guarantee
If you’re an athlete and want a fantastic BCAA supplement verified by professionals, look no further. As a top BCAA for bodybuilding, Cellucor BCAA Sport is ideal for anyone who wants to gain muscles and is serious about sports.
Moreover, to ensure you understand that this is a legitimate BCAA for pro athletes, know that it is NSF-certified for sport. That means it was tested by a reputable third-party supported by NFL, PGA, and LPGA.
Just like every other good BCAA, it follows that 2:1:1 ratio for BCAA blend. That means it’s great for helping you stay hydrated and energized even during the most intense workouts. Also, it helps with muscle recovery, which is essential when doing sports.
At the price of only $19.99 for 30 servings, we honestly think it’s the best BCAA supplement you can get for sport. Usually, when you have certified products recommended by known organizations, the prices tend to be high, but that is not the case for this product. In short, it’s quite an amazing deal for such a high-quality product.
It’s pretty easy to use, so even if you’re not a professional athlete, we are confident you’ll have no trouble mixing it and getting those results in no time.
However, keep in mind one small flaw; it leaves a bit of a weird aftertaste. It doesn’t make this BCAA any worse, though. As one of the best BCAAs for muscle growth, it might still be right for you — even more so since you can take it anytime you want.
Pros
- + NSF-approved
- + Doesn’t have a negative impact on your digestion
- + Active customer service
Cons
- − Leaves a bit odd aftertaste
Myprotein Essential BCAA 2:1:1 Powder
Key Features
- Sizes: 0.5 lb, 0.55 lb, 1 lb, 1.1 lb, 2 lb, 2.2 lb
- Flavors: Blue Raspberry, Cold Brew Coffee, Gummy Fish, Peach Rings, Rainbow Sherbet, Snow Cone, Watermelon, Unflavored
- Shipping policy: Free shipping on orders over $20.00
- Return policy: 14-day return period policy that starts the day you receive your item
Just by reading its name, you can guess that you’re getting one of the best BCAA supplements as it follows that 2:1:1 ratio. That’s quite important since that ratio of leucine, isoleucine, and valine is optimal for your health and fitness.
Myprotein Essential BCAA 2:1:1 Powder comes in several different flavors and sizes, so you can pick whichever fits your needs better.
This BCAA powder is intended to prevent muscle damage, but it’ll also speed up the recovery process. It can be taken before, during, or after exercise, as it will help you stay energized. The company recommends you take it several times a day for optimal results.
While we didn’t like the fact that it’s made in facilities that deal with milk, soy, eggs, and gluten, as it might not be the best choice for people with food allergies, we think it offers an excellent price-value ratio and is the best BCAA pre-workout to help you perform better and achieve amazing results.
You just have to put the right amount of powder in the water, mix it, and it’s ready for drinking. It’s that easy, meaning you can fit it into your busy schedule without any trouble.
Pros
- + Great for intermittent fasting
- + Mixes well with cold water
- + Prevents muscle damage
- + Plenty of available sizes
Cons
- − It might not be the best for people with different allergies
Bodylogix Fermented
Key Features
- Sizes: 60 servings
- Flavors: Unflavored
- Shipping policy: Free standard shipping on orders over $69.00 before taxes
- Return policy: You can return the product within the first 30 days for a refund
It might be last on our top-rated BCAA list, but it’s definitely not the least — Bodylogix Fermented BCAA is another amazing Bodylogix supplement.
With the price point of $22.99 for 60 servings, it’s undoubtedly one of the more affordable BCAA supplements from our list. We think it’s ideal for anyone who is just starting, as it’s pretty easy to use, the price is reasonable, so you don’t have to invest much, and you won’t get lost in the flavor choices.
However, we wish their packages came in at least one smaller size to be a bit more practical for beginners.
Even more importantly, it’s NSF-tested. That means all the ingredients are safe and approved by a third-party lab, so you know you’re getting one of the top BCAA supplements.
This product helps you stay in good shape, keeps you energized during your training, and helps you build muscles. Of course, you still need to eat healthy, as no good results will come with merely using supplements — and this can be said for all supplements on the list.
If you have specific food allergies, know that this supplement contains no gluten, peanut, soy, or artificial ingredients. It’s made in a peanut-free facility, so you know it’s safe to consume.
On top of that, it’s plant-based, making it ideal even for vegans, which is also why it deserves to be among the top ten BCAA supplements.
Pros
- + No artificial colors, sweeteners, or preservatives
- + Great for anyone with different food allergies
- + NSF-approved
- + Easy to mix with shakes or juices due to having no sugar or flavor
Cons
- − Only comes in large packaging
How to Choose the Best BCAA For Your Needs
Despite going through our BCAA supplement reviews, you still need to know how to choose only one product. After all, they’re all pretty great and offer so many benefits; it’s hard to make a final choice.
Did you know that buyers have made over 54 thousand complaints about supplement products in 2018? This statistic clearly indicates that it’s wise to thoroughly consider all aspects of choosing the right BCAA supplement.
To make it easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of features we think are essential to consider. Keep reading if you want to find out more.
Price
BCAAs are usually pretty affordable, as you can see from our reviews. We would say there are no expensive ones on our list, but some are cheaper than others.
However, it can still become pricey if you take other supplements as well. Also, a gym membership is usually not cheap either. When you put all that together, trying to get in the best shape possible can put a dent in your wallet.
That’s why you need to be honest with yourself and set your budget. Think about what you’re comfortable with, and then look for the product that fits your budget but also checks out the most important boxes for you.
The best one isn’t always the most expensive one, but it has the best price-value ratio for you.
Formula
You might have noticed that all BCAAs from here follow the 2:1:1 ratio of leucine to isoleucine and valine. This is the optimal and scientifically proven ratio. That means it’s ideal and safe to use for achieving your goals.
All good BCAA supplements follow that ratio. If you notice any BCAA supplement with much more leucine in it, we suggest you avoid it. While leucine is great for gaining muscle mass, higher content will diminish all other benefits of BCAA, like fast muscle recovery.
Furthermore, we suggest you read the labels and inform yourself why they included those specific ingredients. Not only will it help you distinguish transparent brands from those that simply show off using big words, but you’ll also know the exact purpose of each ingredient and whether you need it or not.
Safety
Another critical element in regard to choosing the top BCAA supplement also has to do with ingredients, but for a different reason; it’s essential to know if the product contains any possible allergens.
Many BCAAs are free of at least one food allergen; just make sure it clearly states that it contains none of it. It would be best if the product was made in a facility that didn’t deal with that ingredient and the company has a certificate that they are gluten-free, for example.
Furthermore, it might be a good idea to make sure that the BCAA you choose is a safe blend and maybe even tested by third-parties.
Versatility
For most of you, the best BCAA powder is the one that suits your needs and budget. Of course, since it can be hard to accommodate everyone’s wishes, we suggest you look for more versatile ones.
Since many people have full-time jobs alongside other obligations, it can be difficult to fit something extra into your schedule. That’s why we think it’s important to find a supplement that fits into your lifestyle.
Moreover, think about the flavor. Is the choice of flavors important to you, or do you prefer the unflavored one? Keep in mind that some are more bitter than others, while some are sweeter.
Last but not least, think about the function. Best BCAA supplements serve more than one function. They keep you hydrated, energized, and help your muscles recover. However, some are better for losing weight, while others are more fitting for gaining muscles, so think about what you want.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re just starting, training regularly, or working as a professional athlete, you probably already know that supplements can help you improve your performance. BCAA is one of the most affordable supplements on the market that can boost your health.
Now that you have gone through our best BCAA for men list, we know that you can make the top choice for you and achieve the results you’ve always dreamed of.
FAQs
Should I take BCAA everyday?
If you want better results, then yes. BCAA is not only perfectly safe to consume every day but also very beneficial. With prolonged regular use, you will achieve your goals faster.
Just make sure you use the product according to the instructions on the packaging.
Is BCAA bad for your liver?
No, BCAA is not bad for your liver, quite the opposite. Taking BCAA regularly can aid you in preventing any complications if you have liver disease. In other words, if you live with liver cirrhosis, these supplements might reduce your chances of developing cancer and other serious liver problems.
When should BCAAs be taken?
This will largely depend on the type of BCAAs you take. Some can be used at any time, while some are better used before or after your workout.
For that reason, we suggest you follow the instructions on the packaging to get the most out of your BCAAs.
How long does BCAA take to work?
It usually takes about 30 minutes for the BCAA to kick in, and then you have from one up to 5 hours to get the maximum benefit from it.
The speed of the results might vary, mainly depending on your goal. Most users have reported that it helped them with soreness and muscle recovery.
Is creatine or BCAA better?
This will mostly depend on your goals. BCAAs are quite affordable, and they help your muscles recover. They’re low in calories as well. On the other hand, creatine is better for those who need a lot of energy during exercise and something for strength building.