- 11 research-backed ingredients
- Well dosed
- Good price
- 11 research supported ingredients
- Free worldwide shipping
- Lots of positive customer feedback
Written by Steve Theunissen | ISSA: CPT & Fitness Nutrition
Fact checked by Robert Iafelice, MS, RD, LDN
FACT CHECKED
Methodology
We adhere to a strict methodology when reviewing products. We strive to deliver you an unbiased opinion on products and services so that you're able to make an informed decision. Learn More
We adhere to a strict methodology when reviewing products. We strive to deliver you an unbiased opinion on products and services so that you're able to make an informed decision. Learn More
Affiliate Disclosure
We may earn a commission on purchases made through links on this page at no cost to you. Learn More
We may earn a commission on purchases made through links on this page at no cost to you. Learn More
Testosterone is the most vital anabolic hormone in the human body. That's why so many people are desperate to get more of it coursing through their veins. More testosterone means more muscle building and strength potential, greater virility, and increased energy levels. So, it's not surprising that the natural testosterone booster supplement market is booming.
That's both a good and a bad thing. The good news is that you are spoiled for choices. The tough part is that, with so much choice, it's not easy to separate the best from the rest when finding the right testosterone-boosting supplement. That's why we, here at SET FOR SET, go out of our way to do the heavy lifting for you. Today, we zero in on two of the most popular products on the market; Testogen and Testo-Max.
What you can expect in this article:
- Testogen vs. Testo-Max: Which Test Booster Is Better?
- What is: Testogen/Testo-Max?
- Ingredients of: Testogen/Testo-Max
- Benefits and Side-Effects: Testogen/Testo-Max
- How to take: Testogen/Testo-Max?
- How much do they cost: Testogen/Testo-Max?
- Testogen/Testo-Max FAQs
- Summary
Testogen VS Testo-Max: WHICH TEST BOOSTER IS BETTER?
Comparing Testogen and Testo-Max is quite a frustrating exercise. That is because these products contain the same ingredients in the same dosages. Logic will tell you that the same ingredients with the same dosages will give you the same results, regardless of the packaging and marketing surrounding the two products.
That means that it all comes down to the price. Because Testogen is five dollars cheaper ($59.99 versus $64.99), that is the product that we recommend as the better buy.
What is Testogen?
Testogen is a natural testosterone booster that includes 11 research-backed ingredients. The product is designed to stimulate the body's production of testosterone. It is marketed as being able to increase strength, muscle mass, and energy levels, as well as improving men's libido and virility.
Testogen is manufactured by a UK company called MuscleClub Ltd. It is sold online through their official website and retails for $59.99 for a one-month supply.
Testogen safely increases your natural testosterone levels to quickly improve your energy, vitality and overall wellness. Its unique formula contains a specifically selected blend...
What is Testo-Max?
Testo-Max is a popular testosterone booster made by Crazy Bulk, a successful bodybuilding supplement company. Testo-Max also contains 11 ingredients. However, this product is marketed more as a muscle-building supplement than Testogen. In fact, Crazy Bulk advertises Testo-Max as a legal alternative to the anabolic steroid Sustanon.
Testo-Max is available from the official website and sells for $64.99 for a one-month supply.
Testo-Max pumps up your testosterone levels naturally. No illegal steroids required. Formulated from a testo-boosting mega-mix of D-Aspartic acid, magnesium, zinc, vitamins D, B6, K1, and more...
11 Testogen Ingredients
The effectiveness of a testosterone booster comes down to the ingredients and their dosages. Here's a breakdown of the ingredient formula that makes up Testogen:
1. D-Aspartic Acid - 2352mg
D-Aspartic Acid (D-AA) is an amino acid that has been shown to promote natural testosterone production. It does this by stimulating the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), which is necessary for the release of testosterone from the testes.¹
2. Fenugreek extract - 40mg
Fenugreek is an herb used for centuries to improve energy and libido. Researchers have identified an active compound known as saponins that has demonstrated the ability to stimulate testosterone production.²
We've written an entire article if you're interested in reading more about the connection between fenugreek and testosterone.
3. Vitamin D3 - 50mcg
Calcitriol is the active form of vitamin D3. This compound has been shown to help lower the body's levels of cortisol, commonly known as the stress hormone. Cortisol has a negative effect on testosterone by interfering with the synthesis of luteinizing hormone.³ Vitamin D supplements are one of the most popular supplements on the market today.
4. Zinc - 10mg
Zinc is a critical mineral that is necessary for a whole host of bodily functions, including energy production and hormone regulation. It is also needed for the production of luteinizing hormone. This hormone stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes to release testosterone.⁴ Most people get sufficient zinc in their diet, but people who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet may want to look into a zinc supplement.
5. Korean Red Ginseng Extract 4:1 - 40mg
Korean Red Ginseng Extract 4:1 is a concentrated extract of Panax ginseng root, a plant whose roots have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of illnesses. This is one of many traditional plants who have found a new life as a performance enhancer.
Compounds in ginseng called ginsenosides are thought to have adaptogenic and immunomodulatory properties. They may also boost levels of testosterone and improve male sexual function.⁵
6. Boron - 8mg
Boron is a trace mineral that may be beneficial for bone health, immune system functioning, and hormone regulation. Boron supplements have been shown to increase men's free testosterone levels. In one study, men who took boron supplements for a week had significantly higher free testosterone levels than those who took a placebo in one research study.⁶
7. Nettle Leaf Extract 4:1 - 40mg
Nettle leaf extract is produced from the stinging nettle plant. It contains two compounds called lignans and polysaccharides. The compounds bind to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), a protein that binds to testosterone and reduces its availability in the body. By binding to SHBG, nettle leaf extract may help increase free testosterone levels in the body.⁷
8. Magnesium - 200mg
Magnesium is needed for the synthesis and release of luteinizing hormone (LH), which stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes to create testosterone. Studies have proven that taking a magnesium supplement can help men, particularly those who are magnesium deficient, improve their testosterone levels. In one study, testosterone levels in males who took a magnesium supplement for four weeks rose significantly compared to men who received a placebo.⁸
9. Vitamin B6 - 20mg
Vitamin B6 is another compound that has been identified as playing a role in the synthesis of luteinizing hormone, which is requisite for the production of testosterone.⁹
10. Vitamin K1 - 20mcg
Vitamin K1 is a fat-soluble vitamin that is thought to improve testosterone levels. However, the way that it does so is not fully understood by researchers. Research to support the use of Vitamin K1 as a testosterone booster is lacking.
11. BioPerine® - 5mg
Bioperine is a patented blend of black pepper extract that contains the active ingredient piperine. It is included in many products, including this one, to improve the absorbability and digestibility of the other ingredients.¹⁰
11 Testo-Max Ingredients
Testo-Max contains the exact same 11 ingredients as Testogen. The difference may - or may not come down to the dosage, which we will focus on in this section.
1. Vitamin D3 - 52mcg
The 52 mcg per dose in Testo-Max is very close to the 50 mcg you get in Testogen. The generally accepted recommended daily dosage for Vitamin D is 600-800 IU. This is the equivalent of 15-20 mcg, so the dosages in both products are relatively high.
2. Vitamin K1 - 20mcg
The dosage of Vitamin K1 is the same in both of these products. Of all eleven ingredients, this is the one with the least research backing to support it.
3. Vitamin B6 - 20mg
Again Vitamin B6 is dosed the same as in Testogen, at 20 mg. This is considerably above the RDA for Vitamin B6 of between 1.3 and 1.7 mg, depending on gender and age.
4. Magnesium - 200mg
Both Testogen and Testo-Max contain 200 mg of magnesium. The RDA for adults aged 19-51 is 310-320 mg for women and 400-420 mg for men daily. That means that you get about 50% of the RDA in each product.
5. Zinc - 10mg
Once again, the dosage of zinc is exactly the same between Testogen and Testo-Max. The RDA for zinc is between 9 and 11 mg, so both products are right in the ballpark.
6. D-Aspartic Acid - 2352mg
Believe it or not, once more, you get the exact same amount of D-AA in both products - 2352 mg, to be exact. While there is no RDA for D-AA, studies have used dosages between 2000 and 6000 mg. Compared to other competing products, 2352 mg is about average. Some products contain 3000 mg or more per dose.
7. Nettle Leaf Extract 4:1 - 40mg
By now, you might be thinking that Testogen is a carbon copy of Testo-Max. Nettle leaf extract is another ingredient that is dosed the same, at 40 mg. Studies have generally used dosages of 300-600 mg, so 40 mg seems to be very low.
8. Ginseng Red Powder - 40mg
At 40 mg, you get the same amount of ginseng red powder in both products. Studies, though, have generally used dosages between 1.8 and 6 grams daily. However, it is generally recommended to take 200-300 mg per day, which is considerably more than you get in either Testo-Max or Testogen.
9. Fenugreek Extract 4:1 - 40mg
Fenugreek extract is yet another ingredient that is dosed the same in both products. Studies typically dosages between 500 and 600 mg per day. That means that there may not be enough fenugreek in either product to have any appreciable effect.
10. Boron - 8mg
There are 8 mg of boron in both products. There is no RDA for boron, though studies suggest that adults require 1-3 mg for optimized health benefits. The 8 mg of boron in Testo-Max and Testogen, then, seems pretty high.
11. BioPerine 95% Piperine - 5mg
Yep, once more, the dosages are identical on the final ingredient, BioPerine. Studies suggest that the ideal dosage is between 5 and 20 mg.
Claimed Benefits of Testogen
As we've seen, Testogen and Testo-Max contain the same ingredients in the same dosages. Logically, you'd assume that they'd give the same benefits. However, the companies behind the products slant their marketing to attract particular audiences. Here's what Testogen is claimed to do for you.
1. Boosts Energy Levels
Testogen claims to be able to help you wake up more refreshed, overcome fatigue and replenish your energy levels to power you through your day.
2. Improved sex drive
The ability to increase testosterone levels, along with the libido-enhancing benefits of Korean red ginseng, is claimed to improve your sex drive and help overcome erectile dysfunction.
3. Build confidence
By increasing testosterone levels, you can increase your muscle and strength levels, along with your energy. These things, it is claimed, will boost your confidence.
4. Naturally boosts testosterone levels
Most of the ingredients in Testogen are research-backed in their ability to naturally boost testosterone levels. The website claims that some of the ingredients can raise testosterone levels by as much as 49% in two weeks.
5. Increased muscle growth
Improved testosterone levels increase protein synthesis, which in turn, opens the way for improved muscle growth. Of course, that will only happen if you are also working out with weights.
6. Increased Stamina
The manufacturer of Testogen claims that taking their product will allow you to improve your stamina so that you are able to maintain your energy levels over a sustained period of time.
7. Improved strength
By increasing your testosterone levels, Testogen opens the door to improved strength. Once again, this won't happen automatically - it requires consistent resistance training.
8. Burn body fat
A couple of ingredients in Testogen, fenugreek and Red Korean ginseng, may have the ability to promote fat burn. Additionally, the more muscle mass you have on your body, the higher your metabolic rate, and resultant calorie burn, will be.
Testogen safely increases your natural testosterone levels to quickly improve your energy, vitality and overall wellness. Its unique formula contains a specifically selected blend...
Side Effects of Testogen
Although Testogen is a natural, safe product, you may experience the following minor side effects:
- Gastrointestinal distress (such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach cramps)
- Headaches
- Sleep disturbances
- Acne or skin reactions
- Mood changes or irritability
Claimed Benefits of Testo-Max
Testo-Max is marketed more as a bodybuilding supplement than Testogen. Here are the claimed benefits:
1. Enhanced muscle growth
The official website claims that Testo-Max is a 100% legal steroid alternative that will boost muscle mass. Despite the inference, it will not give you comparable results to steroids like Sustanon.
2. Increased strength
Crazy Bulk claims that their product will provide you with dramatic strength gains' as a result of the increased testosterone production that results from taking Testo-Max.
3. Enhances recovery
Testo-Max claims to be able to speed up post-workout recovery so you can train more frequently, reduce delayed onset muscle soreness and improve protein synthesis.
4. Improved stamina
The improved testosterone production that you get with Testo-Max is claimed to be able to improve your cardiovascular and muscular stamina so you can train harder and longer.
5. Boosts libido
Testo-Max includes such ingredients as fenugreek and Korean red ginseng, which may boost libido.
Testo-Max pumps up your testosterone levels naturally. No illegal steroids required. Formulated from a testo-boosting mega-mix of D-Aspartic acid, magnesium, zinc, vitamins D, B6, K1, and more...
Side Effects of Testo-Max
Because it contains all-natural ingredients, the side effects of Testo-Max are relatively minor when you keep to the recommended dosage. These include:
- Headaches
- Stomach upset
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Interrupted sleep
How to take them: Testogen vs. Testo-Max?
Both Testogen and Testo-Max should be taken four times per day. The difference is that the manufacturer of Testogen recommends spreading the intake of the four capsules over the course of the day, spaced about two hours apart. In contrast, Testo-Max should be taken all at once, about a half hour before breakfast.
How much do they cost: Testogen vs Testo-Max?
The cost for a 30-day supply (120 capsules) of Testo-Max is $64.99.
The cost for a 30-day supply of Testogen is $59.99.
Both companies offer free worldwide shipping.
Testogen vs. Testo-Max FAQs
Is Testogen better than Testo-Max?
No, Testogen is not better than Testo-Max. Both products contain exactly the same ingredients with the same dosages. The difference comes down to the price. Because Testogen costs five dollars less than Testo-Max, therefore, it represents the better value for money.
What is the best alternative to Testogen?
The best alternative to Testogen is Testo-Max, which contains the same ingredients and dosages. Other good alternatives with similar ingredient profiles are TestoFuel and TestoPrime.
Is Testo-Max worth it?
In terms of competition, Testo-Max is priced quite reasonably. It contains most of the most well-researched ingredients to boost testosterone, though some of them, such as fenugreek and Red Korean ginseng, may be underdosed. Overall, it appears to be worth it as a testosterone-boosting supplement to complement such lifestyle factors as strength training, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep.
How long do Testo-Max and Testogen take to work?
The length of time it takes for Testo-Max and Testogen to work depends on a number of variables, including age, gender, and whether you are working out. In general, you should see results in terms of increased energy, strength, and muscle gains after a few weeks.
Summary
There is no difference between Testogen and Testo-Max, even though the former is marketed more as a general purpose 'T' booster while the latter is geared towards the hardcore bodybuilding community and emphasizes lean muscle growth. The same ingredients in the same dosages will give the same results, regardless of what the respective marketing departments dream up.
Because Testogen is slightly cheaper than Testo-Max, that is the product that we recommend between these two testosterone boosters.
Testogen safely increases your natural testosterone levels to quickly improve your energy, vitality and overall wellness. Its unique formula contains a specifically selected blend...
Interested in more testosterone boosting supplements? Check out our reviews of TestoPrime and TestoFuel.
References
- Roshanzamir, Farzad, and Seyyed Morteza Safavi. "The Putative Effects of D-Aspartic Acid on Blood Testosterone Levels: A Systematic Review." International Journal of Reproductive Biomedicine, vol. 15, no. 1, 1 Jan. 2017, pp. 1–10
- Wankhede, Sachin, et al. "Beneficial Effects of Fenugreek Glycoside Supplementation in Male Subjects during Resistance Training: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study." Journal of Sport and Health Science, vol. 5, no. 2, 1 June 2016, pp. 176–182
- Lerchbaum, Elisabeth, et al. "Vitamin D and Testosterone in Healthy Men: A Randomized Controlled Trial." The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, vol. 102, no. 11, 29 Aug. 2017, pp. 4292–4302
- Prasad, Ananda S., et al. "Zinc Status and Serum Testosterone Levels of Healthy Adults." Nutrition, vol. 12, no. 5, May 1996, pp. 344–348
- Lee, Jeong Yoon, et al. "Effects of Red Ginseng Oil(KGC11o) on Testosterone-Propionate-Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia." Journal of Ginseng Research, Nov. 2021
- Naghii, Mohammad Reza, et al. “Comparative Effects of Daily and Weekly Boron Supplementation on Plasma Steroid Hormones and Proinflammatory Cytokines.” Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology: Organ of the Society for Minerals and Trace Elements (GMS), vol. 25, no. 1, 1 Jan. 2011, pp. 54–58
- Sharp, Matthew, et al. "The Effects of a Multi-Ingredient Performance Supplement on Hormonal Profiles and Body Composition in Male College Athletes." Sports, vol. 4, no. 2, 6 May 2016, p. 26
- Maggio, Marcello, et al. "The Interplay between Magnesium and Testosterone in Modulating Physical Function in Men." International Journal of Endocrinology, vol. 2014, 2014, pp. 1–9
- Symes, E. K., et al. "Increased Target Tissue Uptake Of, and Sensitivity To, Testosterone in the Vitamin B6 Deficient Rat." Journal of Steroid Biochemistry, vol. 20, no. 5, 1 May 1984, pp. 1089–1093
- Fernández-Lázaro, Diego, et al. “Iron and Physical Activity: Bioavailability Enhancers, Properties of Black Pepper (Bioperine®) and Potential Applications.” Nutrients, vol. 12, no. 6, 24 June 2020, p. 1886
Steve Theunissen
Author