If you've been lifting and taking pre-workouts for a while you probably remember the days when JACK3D was all anyone talked about. Or maybe you remember as far back as the days of the Original Ultimate Orange preworkout. Well a lot of those names are still around today, but there's even some newer ones giving them a serious run for their money. While JACK3D, which has been around since 2006 is still popular, pre-workout formulas have evolved over the years. Brands are putting in more pump ingredients, heftier dosages of pump ingredients and more nootropics and thermogenics. Some of the newer DMHA Pre-Workouts like Killer Labz First Degree, Convict and others have more well rounded and robust formulas. You even have a company like Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals rolling out AMP3D which seems to be a modern take on JACK3D.
I've been around the supplement space, gyms, and the industry long enough to see pre-workouts go from simple caffeine formulas to products loaded with exotic stimulants, nootropic and hefty dosages of pump ingredients. But one ingredient that gets people excited is DMHA.
I wanted to take a closer look at seven of the most popular DMHA Pre-Workouts on the market today. Some are old school classics and some are newer formulas, and some have enough stims to make even experienced pre-workout users think twice.
I'm going to be breaking down the ingredients, energy, pumps, focus and overall value. And just because something is packed with stims doesn't automatically mean its a better pre-workout in my book. So are you ready? Let's get into it!
APS Nutrition Mesomorph V4
Let's begin with what may be the most recognizable name on this list, Mesomorph.
Mesomorph has been one of the best selling hardcore preworkouts for years, and there's a reason why people keep coming back to it. It's one of those products that has a loyal following and there's a reason it's widely called "The King of Pre-workouts". Mesomorph which came out in 2013 also picked up and improved upon JACK3D a bit by adding a more well rounded formula outside of just stims.
What I like about Mesomorph is that it's not just a bunch of stimulants thrown together. You've got beta alanine for tingles, citrulline for pumps, creatine compounds and taurine so there's actually some thought put into the endurance and pump side of things.
Then you've got the stimulant blend that features DMHA, geranium extract, theobromine and quebracho blanco a form of yohimbine.
My biggest complain is the the proprietary blends. The entire stimulant matrix is 1,860mg, but we don't know exactly how much DMHA or caffeine we're actually getting. Over the years the industry has moved to fully transparent labels and it would nice to see a version of Mesomorph with a transparent label.
That said looking strictly at the formula, Mesomorph is still one of the more well rounded options in the pre-workout category.
Caffeine Level: Not Disclosed
DMHA Level: Not Disclosed
Formula Rating: 7.5/10
USP Labs JACK3D
You can't write an article about hardcore pre-workouts and not talk about JACK3D. This one may be one of the most iconic, most well recognized pre-workouts of all time. And yes, we know, the JACK3D of today is not the original OG formula, but it's still a solid option and one of the more popular preworkouts on the market.
JACK3D is the product that helped put high stimulant preworkouts on the map. It's been around since 2006 and while the formula has changed in regards to DMAA being swapped for DMHA, its still legendary.
The current formula includes DMHA in place of DMAA along with caffeine, geranium extract, yohimbine, beta alanine, creatine and arginine.
One thing that's interesting about JACK3D is how concentrated it is. You get up to 45 servings per container, however that is based on a one scoop serving. At a full 3 scoop serving you're actually getting 15 servings per tub, and at that dose you're getting 405mg caffeine along with all the other stimulants.
The main issue with JACK3D is the pump, nootropic and/or thermogenic side of things. As we mentioned earlier, pre-workouts have come a long way over the years and back in 2006 they were just more basic stimulant formulas. It wasn't until recent years brands began throwing in 10 gram dosages of citrulline and exotic nootropics.
JACK3D also features proprietary blends so again we don't know the dosages of the ingredients were getting. JACK3D is still a fantastic and popular pre-workout option and they've managed to keep the price point low, but due to the lack of pump ingredients JACK3D is going to be best for those looking strictly for energy or for those who do a lot of cardio or HIIT workouts.
Caffeine Level: 135mg Per Scoop, 405mg Per 3 Scoops
DMHA Level: Not Disclosed
My Formula Rating: 6.8/10
Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals Ultimate Orange
Now here's a product that goes WAY back. Ultimate Orange has been around since 1982 and is often said to be the first pre-workout ever rolled out. Ultimate Orange also used to feature DMAA however its since been replaced with DMHA.
We previously talked about JACK3D and how formulas weren't quite as extensive back in 2006, so Ultimate Orange while rolled out long before JACK3D actually had an extensive and really unique formula. While it contains nothing for pumps or thermogenesis, its essentially contains a full multivitamin panel, essential amino acids and even 13 grams of protein. It is a transparent label and stimulant wise features 25mg of ephedra extract, 150mg of DMHA and 100mg of caffeine. Many users seem to enjoy the relatively high DMHA content but low caffeine content as most users seem to prefer DMHA to caffeine as a stimulant source.
The retro branding is and old school feel is cool and people still love the unique orange flavor. My biggest criticism is the lack of a dedicated pump matrix or formula you'll find in more modern products, but what do you expect for a pre-workout rolled out over 40 years ago.
Caffeine Level: 100mg
DMHA Level: 150mg
My Formula Rating: 6.5/10
Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals AMP3D
AMP3D initially rolled out under the name KRANK3D before some disruption regarding the name when it was renamed to AMP3D. It seems AMP3D is Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals spin on an updated version of JACK3D adding more pumps, nootropics and just overall a more modern formula, even the naming format and branding share similarities with the whole 3D aspect.
Having talked to lots of guys who try lots of pre's, I've had numerous guys tell me AMP3D is the strongest preworkout they've ever taken. While for me the label on something like Killer Labz First Degree looks more hardcore and higher dosed, something about the AMP3D formula really works for stim lovers.
The first thing that caught my eye with AMP3D is the Nitro RX ingredient which Hi-Tech calls Citrulline Silicate. The formula is designed around nitric oxide support and muscle pumps.
You then have a Neurogenic Energizer Blend featuring caffeine, DMHA, theobromine and phenylethylamine and yohimbine.
Something to note, the stimulant blend is listed at 590mg but that doesn't mean you're getting 590mg of caffeine, that's the total weight of the blend, the individual ingredient dosages aren't disclosed. It would be nice if Hi-Tech would break this down as it would make comparing AMP3D with other products much easier and take out the guess work.
What makes AMP3D interesting to me is its trying to combine a serious stimulant formula with a more advanced approach to pumps than JACK3D.
The formula also includes an anabolic cell volumizing blend and an NO Amplification Matrix. The only issue I really have with this one is transparency, there are a lot of interesting ingredients here but without the individual dosages, its hard to know exactly how the formula compares to others.
Caffeine Level: Not Disclosed
DMHA Level: Not Disclosed
My Formula Rating: 8.5/10
Condemned Labz Convict 2.0
Now we're getting into one of the formulas I find most impressive on paper. Condemned Labz reformulated Convict came out with Convict 2.0 and it contains 35% more active ingredients.
Unlike some of the other products we've discussed so far, Convict has a transparent label and tells us how much of everything we're getting.
You get 6 grams of citrulline for pumps, 3.2 grams of beta alanine for endurance and tingles and a gram of tyrosine for focus. Stim wise were looking at 350mg of caffeine, 200mg DMHA, 50mg of synephrine and 3mg of yohimbine HCL.
Convict also adds in 300mg of mucuna pruriens extract along with Paradoxine branded grains of paradise to get you sweating and of course AstraGin for absorption.
What I really like about this formula is it doesn't just rely on stims, it has a nice pump and thermogenic aspect as well. The only potential criticism would be the combination of synephrine and yohimbine alongside the high levels of caffeine and DMHA may be more than some can handle and if you want to get the full advantage of the pump ingredients, you can't half scoop and get less of the caffeine without also missing out on those pumps.
But when it comes to ingredient transparency and having a complete formula, Convict 2.0 is one of the standouts. Where does it stack up in terms of strength, depending upon who you talk to Convict, AMP3D or Killer Labz First Degree are fighting it out for the strongest formula for stimheads.
Caffeine Level: 350mg
DMHA Level: 200mg
My Formula Rating: 9/10
BPI Sports 1.M.R. OG
Here's another blast from the past. If you were taking pre-workouts back in the early 2010's you probably remember BPI Sports 1.M.R. The name stood for "One More Rep" and it was one of the better known hardcore preworkouts of that era.
BPI Sports was bought by Hi-Tech and they brought back the OG concept with a formula featuring DMHA. The first thing I noticed was the 9,625mg Pump Matrix containing beta alanine, citrulline silicate, citrulline, arginine AKG, betaine and tyrosine. That's a pretty solid blend, although once again we don't know how much of each ingredient were getting.
The stimulant blend is 575mg and includes caffeine, DMHA, theobromine, geranium extract, guarana and one of my personal favorite ingredients yerba mate which we don't often see in preworkouts.
I like that BPI included several different ingredients for energy and focus rather than relying entirely on caffeine, but once again the proprietary blend are frustrating. With ingredients like beta alanine and citrulline I want to know whether I'm getting meaningful amounts or just a little of everything.
This one is a little pricier than some other options on the list but the formula is interesting and fans of the OG 1MR will enjoy this one.
Caffeine Level: Not Disclosed
DMHA Level: Not Disclosed
My Formula Rating: 7.5/10
Killer Labz First Degree
Killer Labz First Degree is one of the most aggressive formulas on the entire list and this one may be my personal favorite if for no other reason than it contains a hefty dose of Eria Jarensis, one of my favorite ingredients for a mood boost and boost in motivation. Being the newest of the bunch it obviously also has the most modern formula.
Killer Labz is another old school hardcore supplement brand that's been making a comeback and they didn't hold back with First Degree. Let's start with the stims. 400mg of caffeine from two sources, 200mg of DMHA and 250mg of Eria Jarensis, that's a pretty serious stimulant profile.
But it doesn't stop there. Where as a lot of high stim formulas skimp out on pumps or thermogenics, First Degree packs 8 grams of citrulline for pumps, 3.2 grams of beta alanine for tingles and endurance, there's also choline, tyrosine and theobromine for focus.
This one is well rounded and loaded, though the stimulants may be more than what some users can handle. If you're someone who likes high stim preworkouts but doesn't need something insane, Mesomorph will likely be more your cup of tea and just to be clear, more stimulants doesn't necessarily equal a better workout.
If we're judging from the completeness of the formula, Killer Labz seriously put in the work here. It's slightly pricier than the other options listed here however its also the most heavily dosed formula.
Caffeine Level: 400mg
DMHA Level: 200mg
My Formula Rating: 9/10
Blackstone Labs Dust X
Dust X is another legendary hardcore preworkout from Blackstone Labs, a brand known for pushing the envelope with its formulas.
What I really like about Dust X is its not just loaded with stims, yes you're getting 300mg of caffeine and 150mg of DMHA an other stims, but you get a gram of Tyrosine, 750mg DMAE and 300mcg of Huperzine A which makes for an interesting combination of nootropics aimed at mental focus, concentration and a strong mind muscle connection.
It also packs 4 grams of citrulline, a gram of agmatine and 2.5 grams of beta alanine for pumps and endurance.
Dust X has one of the more focus oriented formulas on the list and I appreciate that Blackstone Labs does disclose the ingredient dosages.
Caffeine Level: 300mg
DMHA Level: 150mg
My Formula Rating: 7.9
So Which DMHA Pre-Workout Is The Best?
If I were choosing strictly based on ingredient labels having never tried the products, Convict 2.0 and Killer Labz First Degree would be at the top of the list. Both have transparent formulas and contain more than just stims.
Mesomorph would be right up there as well, it's been a customer favorite for years and I like the overall approach to the formula and the fact it not too stim heavy meaning it can be used as a daily driver and not just on leg day.
For the old school crowd JACK3D and Ultimate Orange are probably the two most nostalgic products as both have a lot of history behind them.
AMP3D is interesting with its focus on nitric oxide support and while the label may not look like it I'm regularly told by customers its the strongest pre they've ever taken. Anyhow, here's how I'd break down the formulas
Best Overall Formula on Paper: Killer Labz First Degree
Best For Pump On Paper: Hi-Tech AMP3D
Best Old School Favorite: USP Labs JACK3D
Most Nostolgic: Hi-Tech Ultimate Orange
Most Unique Formula: Ultimate Orange
Most Interesting Pump Technology: AMP3D
Best Overall Preworkout: APS Mesomorph
Couple things I want to emphasize... the strongest formula isn't necessarily the best formula. Energy is great but if a preworkout leaves you crashing or feeling uncomfortable or makes it hard to train, what's the point.
These aren't beginner formulas. Which should you choose? Well we've kind of covered this but as a new user I'd probably start with Mesomorph, Stimheads will like Convict and those seeking the strongest and most well rounded should give First Degree a try but you really can't go wrong with any of these formulas.
I hope this helps you understand the difference between some of these popular DMHA Pre-Workouts.
