BCAA / EAA

Intra-workout aminos — useful or marketing?

#1Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy
$22-$32 · 4.6★

Light amino + caffeine blend for an anytime energy and recovery sipper.

  • Amino acids + light caffeine
  • Refreshing, easy to drink
  • Big flavor selection
#2Scivation Xtend Original BCAA
$25-$35 / 30sv · 4.6★

The original 7g BCAA + electrolyte intra-workout — huge flavor lineup.

  • 7g BCAAs in a 2:1:1 ratio
  • Added electrolytes for hydration
  • Excellent flavors, mixes clean
#3Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine
$40-$50 · 4.5★

Fully-dosed 8g BCAA + glutamine + coconut water for intra-workout recovery.

  • 8g BCAAs, fully disclosed
  • Added glutamine + electrolytes
  • No artificial sweeteners/colors

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need BCAAs?

Probably not if you hit your daily protein. BCAAs are incomplete and largely redundant alongside whey or food. EAAs are more complete and modestly useful for fasted training.

BCAA or EAA?

EAA. Muscle building requires all nine essential amino acids, and EAA blends include the BCAAs plus the rest. BCAA-only products are the weaker, older format.