Finding the strongest pre workouts can feel like endless trial and error.

After testing more than 200 pre workouts since 2013, these are my updated picks for energy, focus, and euphoria.

This list is based on first hand testing, community feedback, and ingredient profiles.

Use code fitfrek for savings at most retailers.

What makes these pre workouts different

Most of them go beyond 300mg of caffeine and combine exotic stimulants like DMHA, eria jarensis, and yohimbine.

That’s why they don’t just give energy. They also elevate mood, improve focus, and often bring a euphoric edge.

Use them with caution, especially if you’re sensitive to stimulants, since side effects can include rapid heart rate or anxiety.

As Kieran Sheridan, PT, physiotherapist and co-founder of GulfPhysio, notes, stimulants like DMAA and DMHA can enhance performance but may also raise heart rate and cause anxiety.

Cerberus Pre-Workout by Krato Supps is a high-stimulant supplement designed for intense energy, focus, and endurance.

It includes 6g citrulline for pumps, 3g beta-alanine for endurance, and 1g agmatine for blood flow.

The stimulant profile combines 350mg caffeine, 200mg DMHA, and 200mg eria jarensis, providing energy, focus, and mood elevation.

350mg theanine helps smooth the stimulant effects, while 2mg alpha yohimbine adds thermogenesis and intensity.

Users report effects that build and peak during workouts, with focus and energy lasting for hours.

Cerberus is suspected to include undisclosed stimulants, enhancing its potency beyond the label.

Best for experienced users, it offers strong performance without excessive side effects.

Avoid if sensitive to stimulants.

Smash AMF is the underground hitter from KJ Labs that built a cult following after Fitness Deal News put it on the map.

The OG batch had stim junkies raving;  insane tunnel vision, mood elevation, appetite suppression, but also heavy side effects like cold sweats and racing heart rate.

The 2024 batch is smoother and more refined.

You still get the illicit buzz, the floaty head high, and the locked-on tunnel vision, but without the same anxiety, palpitations, or alpha-yo type sweating the old version gave.

The flavor is harsh (peach mango, watermelon, blue razz, doesn’t matter, it all has that signature back-end bite), but the effects are why people buy it.

Sessions fly by, focus doubles down the longer you train, and zoning out between sets is part of the ride.

This is not an everyday pre; it’s a “special occasion” hitter, closer to Craze or Excelsior than anything you’ll find on GNC shelves.

Usage Instructions:

Usage: Mix one scoop (10 g) with 8–12 oz of water and consume 30–40 minutes before training. Begin with a flat scoop — do not heap until tolerance is known. Not for daily use; limit to 1–2 times per week.

Safety Information:

Safety: This is a high-stimulant, underground pre-workout designed for experienced users. Potential side effects may include nausea, elevated heart rate, cold sweats, and difficulty sleeping. Do not combine with other stimulants.

Additional Resources:

Use discount code FITFREK to save on your purchase.

Maniaco is the Dark Labs × The Homie collab designed for stim junkies.

It hits with a fast, buzzy head rush and then ramps into locked-in aggression without feeling sloppy.

The formula is straightforward but heavy: 10g citrulline for blood flow, 4g tyrosine for mental drive, 3.2g beta-alanine for endurance, and a stim combo of 400mg caffeine, 300mg DMHA, 300mg eria jarensis, plus a small kick of alpha yohimbine.

Effects come in waves — first sip brings the buzz, 20–30 minutes later the energy spikes, and within 40 minutes you’re in that chaotic but productive zone where music hits harder, weights move faster, and appetite disappears.

Compared to Flame, Maniaco is more aggressive and euphoric, but it stays smoother than Crack or Herolean.

This is one of those “once or twice a week” pre’s when you really want to chase that stim junkie feel.

Usage Instructions:

Usage: Mix one scoop with 8–12 oz of water and consume 25–30 minutes before your workout. Start with half a scoop to assess tolerance. Do not exceed one scoop per day.

Safety Information:

Safety: Due to its extreme stimulant content, this pre-workout is intended only for advanced users. Possible side effects include jitters, rapid heart rate, shakiness, and insomnia if taken too late in the day. Avoid stacking with other stimulants.

Additional Resources:

Use discount code FITFREK to save on your purchase.

Zeus Pre Workout is known for its potent formula designed to deliver intense energy and euphoric feelings.

It's made for those looking for a strong but euphoric workout experience.

Key Features

• Euphoric Energy: Induces a state of euphoria, enhancing mood and motivation, making workouts more enjoyable and productive.
• Intense Focus: Sharpens focus, helping me stay locked in on routines and achieve better results.
• Long-Lasting Performance: Provides sustained energy, keeping me energized and productive throughout my workout and beyond without causing a crash.

My Experience

From the first scoop, Zeus delivers a rush of energy that peaks within 20 minutes.

I feel an urgent sense of motivation and a lasting mood boost, making it my go-to for tough training sessions. The blend of ingredients keeps this elevated state, helping me feel ready to conquer my fitness goals.

Conclusion

Zeus Pre Workout offers a potent mix of euphoria, focus, and sustained energy.

Its ability to enhance mood and motivation sets it apart, making it an excellent choice for those looking to elevate their fitness experience.

Usage Instructions:

Usage: Mix one scoop with 8-12 oz of water and consume 20-30 minutes before your workout. If you are new to high-stimulant pre-workouts, start with half a scoop to assess tolerance.

Safety Information:

Safety: Due to its high stimulant content, Zeus is best suited for experienced users. Potential side effects include jitters, increased heart rate, and difficulty sleeping if taken late in the day.

Firestorm by Global Supremacy is a potent, Germany-made formula packed with DMHA, DMAA, and 350mg of caffeine, designed for high-stimulant tolerance users who want serious energy and focus. Its blend includes 3g beta-alanine for endurance, 2g l-citrulline malate for blood flow, and 500mg glycerol for pumps and hydration, creating a powerful workout experience with minimal crash.

Benefits of Firestorm:

• Extreme, long-lasting energy and focus fueled by DMHA and DMAA.
• Enhanced muscle pumps and endurance from Citrulline, Beta-Alanine, and Glycerol.
• Thermogenic edge with Synephrine and Yohimbine, perfect for intense sessions.

At $59 for 30 servings, Firestorm is ideal for experienced users seeking sustained energy and performance.

Use code FITFREK at checkout for savings. This is a pre-workout for those ready to test their limits.

Transparent Labs Bulk Black: A Game-Changer in Pre-Workouts

When I first tried Transparent Labs Bulk Black, I was immediately impressed by the smooth yet powerful energy it delivered.

This pre-workout is designed for those who want a clean, sustained energy boost, perfect for enhancing performance without the jittery side effects.

Enhanced Focus and Motivation

From the moment it kicked in, I felt a heightened sense of motivation and concentration.

This pre-workout helps maintain mental clarity and focus, which is crucial for powering through challenging workouts.

The blend of ingredients not only supports energy levels but also aids in muscle pumps and endurance, making Bulk Black a well-rounded addition to any fitness regimen.

Long-Lasting Energy Without the Crash

One of the standout features of Bulk Black is its ability to provide lasting energy.

Unlike other pre-workouts that lead to a crash, Bulk Black maintains a steady level of energy, ensuring I stay productive throughout my workout and beyond.

This sustained performance makes it an excellent choice for achieving fitness goals with consistent energy and focus.

Clean, Natural Sweetness

What sets Bulk Black apart is its clean, natural sweetness.

Unlike typical pre-workouts, it feels refreshing and guilt-free.

It's like sipping on a refreshing drink that also supercharges your workout.

The clean ingredients and potent performance make Bulk Black a staple in my pre-workout routine.

Conclusion

Transparent Labs Bulk Black offers a potent mix of energy, focus, and endurance.

Its ability to provide clean, sustained energy without the crash sets it apart, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their fitness experience.

Usage Instructions:

Usage: Mix one scoop with 8-12 oz of water and consume 20-30 minutes before your workout.

Safety Information:

Safety: Bulk Black is suitable for most users, but due to its high caffeine content, those sensitive to stimulants should start with a lower dose to assess tolerance. Potential side effects include jitters and increased heart rate.

Demolish by Frenzy Labz is a rare mix of exotic stimulants that feels chaotic but controlled. With DMHA, DMBA, caffeine, and alpha-yo working together, it delivers long-lasting drive and surprising mood elevation without the nasty crash.

Pumps are decent, though not the star of the show, and the 25-serving tub makes it better value than most exotic pre’s. Expect smooth, upbeat energy that keeps going even after the gym.

Usage Instructions

Mix one scoop (14.4g) with 8–12 oz of cold water about 25–30 minutes before your workout. If you’re new to exotic stims, start with half a scoop to test tolerance.

Frequency

Because it combines DMHA, DMBA, caffeine, and alpha yohimbine, I’d limit it to 2–3 uses per week. Rotate with lower-stim or stim-free formulas to avoid building tolerance and to keep the “smooth chaos” feeling strong.

Safety Information

• Not recommended for beginners.

• Possible side effects: sweating, jitters, elevated heart rate, and bathroom urgency from glycerol.

• Avoid late-night use (or you won’t sleep).

• Don’t stack with other stimulants or fat burners.

Final Thoughts

Demolish is one of the most unique pre-workouts out right now — it feels chaotic and energizing but never out of control. The DMHA + DMBA combo delivers a smooth, uplifting ride with motivation that lingers well after your session. Pumps are secondary, but the focus, drive, and mood make it a standout. If you want something that feels like a modern throwback to old-school stim-heavy pre’s but without 600mg+ caffeine nonsense, this is worth grabbing.

Kill Switch has quickly earned its place among the strongest pre-workouts, comparable to infamous names like Excelsior and Craze.

It’s not just the listed stimulants like 115mg of DMAA or 300mg of caffeine, it’s the unrelenting energy, tunnel-vision focus, and appetite suppression that make it feel truly "special."

From the first scoop, Kill Switch delivers:

• Sustained Energy: The energy builds steadily and lasts for hours, keeping you powered through even the most grueling sessions.
• Intense Focus: It’s not just about staying alert—you’ll feel locked in, completely immersed in every rep and set.
• Appetite Suppression: Forget post-workout hunger; Kill Switch keeps it at bay, making it ideal for fasted training.
• Mood Elevation: The subtle euphoria adds a unique edge, making workouts feel less like a chore and more like an exhilarating challenge.

What sets Kill Switch apart is how it feels beyond the label. Many users, myself included, speculate there may be "something extra" in the formula. It feels smoother yet more potent than traditional DMAA pre-workouts, with effects that linger far beyond the gym.

Comparable to Excelsior and Craze

If you’ve tried Excelsior or Craze, you’ll know what to expect—a pre-workout that doesn’t just give energy but transforms your entire workout experience. Kill Switch feels like a worthy successor, delivering similar "spiked" effects with its own unique twist.

Usage Instructions

Usage: Mix one scoop with 8-12 oz of water and consume 30 minutes before your workout.

Frequency: Due to its potency, I recommend using Kill Switch no more than 1-2 times per week. The less frequently, the better, to maintain sensitivity and avoid disrupting your sleep or building tolerance.

Safety Information:

• Designed for experienced users only.
• Potential side effects include jitteriness, increased heart rate, and difficulty sleeping if taken late in the day.
• Avoid stacking with other stimulants.

Final Thoughts

Kill Switch is not for beginners or the faint of heart. It’s a hardcore pre-workout for stim junkies looking to take their training to new extremes. Its smooth yet intense energy and focus make it a standout in the world of high-stimulant pre-workouts, placing it firmly on the same level as Excelsior and Craze.

Additional Resources

Use discount code FITFREK to save on your purchase.

Video Review: Watch my full breakdown of Kill Switch here: youtube.com/watch?v=xcY0DgwMZ4E

Get Kill Switch: http://fitfrek.com/death-row-formulations-kill-switch/

For a complete list of the DMAA-based pre-workouts, including Kill Switch, check out: http://fitfrek.com/dmaa-supplements/

Kill Switch is a game-changer, but don’t just take my word for it—try it yourself and let me know if it hits as hard as it did for me.

Ommi Holy Energy is the $30 pre that punches way above its weight.

A full 25g scoop (8g citrulline malate, 2g glycerol, 600mg alpha-GPC) sets up clean pumps and focus, then ~400mg caffeine (3 sources) + 2.5mg alpha yohimbine + 500mg theobromine deliver a hard, smooth ride.

Energy comes on fast, plateaus nicely, and sticks for hours without “exotic” stims.

Downsides: the alpha-yo bite and 400mg caffeine can be a lot, start with half a scoop and avoid late sessions.

For value hunters or anyone cycling off the wild DMHA tubs, this is an easy recommend.

Usage Instructions

Mix one scoop (25g) with 10–12 oz cold water about 25–30 minutes before training. Start with half a scoop if you’re new to high-stim formulas.

Frequency

Because it packs ~400mg caffeine + 2.5mg alpha yohimbine, I’d use it 2–3x a week max. Rotate with lower-caffeine or pump-only pre’s to keep sensitivity high.

Safety Information

• Not beginner-friendly.

• Possible side effects: jitters, sweating, bathroom urgency (glycerol + caffeine + alpha-yo).

• Avoid stacking with fat burners or other caffeinated products.

• Don’t take after 2 PM unless you like staring at your ceiling.

Final Thoughts

Ommi Holy Energy is the budget destroyer. For $30, you’re getting doses that would normally run $60+. It’s not exotic (no DMAA/DMHA), but the synergy of caffeine + alpha-yo + focus ingredients makes it hit harder than most mainstream tubs.

If you want full pumps, clean focus, and stim-junkie energy without burning your wallet, this one deserves a spot in rotation.

Update November 2021 - feb 2023: It's been nearly a year since Excelsior hasn't been available in the U.S.  It's time to consider the alternatives. Check out Gulag, a mood enhancing pre workout. 

I can also recommend Wild Fire instead as it feels very strong but still very clean.

Or check out the list of where to buy banned pre-workouts. 

But meanwhile, we have found something comparable, and maybe even better because it's half the price of Excelsior: check out Phenta Plex.

With Phenta Plex, you'll get crazy strong energy and focus for more than 10 hours at a time. 

Or check out Power by Badass Labz, which feels much stronger than an actual pre-workout with DMHA and caffeine. 

Excelsior can also be found in the UK but it's nearly $100...

Back to Excelsior...

This along with Craze (from Driven Sports) will go down as some of the most controversial pre-workouts to exist.

Excelsior has the same focus and energy that the original Craze had.

No, we're not referring to the reformulated versions like Craze V2, or CRZ OG.

We're talking about the original Craze from 2010. The OG.

Excelsior has a similar euphoric feel as the original Craze once had.

The same build-up of energy, the same happy “feels” and you won't want to leave the gym.

The energy lasts for hours.

People report they can't sleep if they take it after 3 pm (again similar to what Craze users reported).

I personally can't sleep until 3 am if I take it after 12 pm.

While it has DMHA and a few other ingredients, it is nothing like any other product that has similar ingredients.

And the appetite suppression is incredibly strong.

Pizza will no longer be appealing, and forget the craving for junk food.

You'll probably forget to eat.

There's definitely something more than the ingredient label shows. 

The feeling is sort of like an amphetamine type feel, with a ton of focus and a speedy feeling to it. 

There's a bit of a mood uplift, but there's also a crash after a few hours.

I wouldn't take this more than once a month because honestly it's strong in effects and I don't think it's worth risking my well-being

Expect to pay around 50 (or about 60-70 if you're outside the US)

That's around $1.5 per serving.

It's worth it for some feel-good energy and motivation.

But if you're prone to depression, you may want to look for another pre-workout because once you've used a lot of Excelsior, you'll be going through some nasty withdrawals.

This is why you should limit usage or not use it at all if you know you can't help it. 

It's available worldwide, throughout the UK and the US.

Try Excelsior and look no further, before you find this Craze replacement gone.

(If you're from the UK or live near it, check it out in this UK store)

If you're prone to depression, I recommend trying something else as this may have a strong crash after a few hours.

This is only for experienced users who know what they are doing.

If you're ordering this in April 2021 and beyond, you're getting a fresh batch.

It may be the same exact feeling or it may be altered in a way. 

To recap, here are the strongest pre-workouts we've reviewed:

1. Crack OG by Dark Labs
2. Crack Primal by Dark Labs
3. Wild Fire by SoCal Supplements
4. Zeus by God Status Labs
5. Firestorm by Global Supremacy
6. Juiced by Quality Vitamins
7. Legit Pre by Legit Pharm
8. Bulk Black by Transparent Labs
9. El Jefe by ASC Supplements
10. Crack Barbarian

These pre-workouts contain above-average levels of stimulants, delivering high energy and powerful performance boosts.

If you're looking for pre-workouts for sustainable, daily use, then check out this list. 

A strong pre-workout isn't always ideal. Bodybuilders often prefer stim-free options to avoid crashes and blood constriction caused by stimulants. Here's what you need to know:

Stimulant Cycling:

• Cycling pre-workouts is essential to prevent tolerance build-up.
• Avoid daily use for extended periods. Take breaks to maintain effectiveness.

Basic Supplements:

• Enhance pre-workout benefits with supplements like ZMA and creatine.
• Magnesium can potentiate caffeine effects, improving performance.

These are the most important ingredients in strong pre-workouts that support mood, motivation, and energy. 

Caffeine:

• The most researched stimulant, enhancing energy, focus, and fat loss.
• Dosages range from 40 to 300mg for mental and physical performance.
• Different forms (citrate, malate) offer varied digestion speeds.

DMAA:

• Potent stimulant known for energy and focus enhancement.
• Works by mimicking adrenaline and increasing dopamine production.
• Often included in strong pre-workouts but can be controversial.

DMHA:

• Similar to DMAA, providing euphoria and aggressive energy.
• Dosages range from 100-300mg depending on the formula.

Eria Jarensis:

• A PEA-based ingredient enhancing mood and focus.
• Doses vary from 150 to 500mg, with strong euphoria effects.

Tyrosine:

• Precursor to key neurotransmitters (dopamine, epinephrine).
• Alleviates stress and improves mental performance, often paired with caffeine.

What should I look for in a pre-workout supplement?

• Ingredients supporting your fitness goals (e.g., Citrulline for muscle, beta-alanine for endurance).

Are pre-workout supplements safe?

• Generally safe but always start with a lower dose to assess tolerance.

Should I cycle off pre-workout supplements?

• Yes, cycle off every 6-8 weeks to prevent tolerance and maintain effectiveness.

Can I take pre-workout on an empty stomach?

• Yes, but it may cause nausea for some. Try a small snack if you have a sensitive stomach.

When should I take my pre-workout supplement?

• 15-30 minutes before your workout for optimal results.

Are there pre-workouts for women?

• No gender-specific pre-workouts; women can use any pre-workout as long as they start with a lower dose to assess tolerance.

Should you cycle stimulants?

• Absolutely. Taking breaks ensures that your body doesn't build up a tolerance, keeping the pre-workouts effective.

Can I stack pre-workouts?

• Yes, but only with stimulant-free nitric oxide supplements to avoid excessive stimulant intake.

What about pre-workouts for cardio?

• Use lower stimulant pre-workouts to avoid excessive heart rate increases before cardio sessions.

Are the strongest pre-workouts optimal?

• Not always. High stimulant content might not be suitable for everyone. Start with lower doses to find what works best for you.

Should you take pre-workout on a full stomach?

• No, it's best absorbed on an empty stomach.

What pre-workout has the highest caffeine?

• Hooligan, with 650mg of caffeine, no exotic stimulants.

Should you cycle pre-workouts?

• Yes, take 1-2 weeks off after 6-8 weeks of continuous use to reset tolerance.

What about pre-workouts for women?

• Women can use any pre-workout listed here; just start with lower doses to assess tolerance.

Can I stack pre-workouts?

• Stack only with stimulant-free nitric oxide supplements to avoid excessive stimulant intake.

The strongest pre-workouts provide exceptional energy and focus but should be used wisely to avoid tolerance and side effects.

Remember to cycle stimulants, consider basic supplements, and adjust dosages to your tolerance and needs.

While these pre-workouts provide the energy and focus to help you push your limits, it’s critical to use them responsibly.

Matt Rogers suggests reserving high-stimulant products for tough workouts to avoid reliance, while Clytie Robinette advises cycling your usage to minimize side effects and keep your body responsive to these potent formulas

Leave a comment below with your experiences or any pre-workouts you think should be added to the list!