The Best Energy Gels for Workouts
We reviewed seven GU Energy gels based on owner ratings, reviews, and specs. The GU Energy, Original Energy Gels, Chocolate Outrage is our top pick for its high ratings and affordable price.
Updated
The bottom line
The GU Energy, Original Energy Gels, Chocolate Outrage (ASIN: B000300CRS) is our top pick for the best energy gel for workouts. It has the highest owner rating of 4.8/5 from 2804 ratings and contains dual-source carbohydrates for sustained energy, essential electrolytes, and amino acids. It is also vegan, gluten-free, and Informed Choice Certified. The closest alternative is the GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel in Espresso Love flavor (ASIN: B0006U6I0U), which has a slightly lower owner rating but includes caffeine for an extra energy boost. For a budget option, the GU Energy Original Energy Gels (ASIN: B08HTSM5LR) contain a variety of flavors at a lower price point.
GU Energy, Original Energy Gels, Chocolate Outrage $15.84
Best overall energy gel for workouts
The GU Energy, Original Energy Gels, Chocolate Outrage is our top pick due to its high owner rating, dual-source carbohydrates, essential electrolytes, and amino acids. It is also vegan, gluten-free, and Informed Choice Certified. Priced at $15.84, it offers great value for the features it provides. The tradeoff is that it does not contain caffeine, which may be a consideration for some users.
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GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel $48.00
Best energy gel with caffeine
The GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel in Espresso Love flavor is our runner-up pick. It has a high owner rating of 4.8/5 from 1563 ratings and includes caffeine for an extra energy boost. It is also vegan, gluten-free, and contains essential electrolytes and amino acids. Priced at $48, it is more expensive than the top pick but offers the added benefit of caffeine.
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GU Energy Original Energy Gels $23.09
Best budget energy gel
The GU Energy Original Energy Gels contain a variety of flavors at a lower price point. With an owner rating of 4.6/5 from 1365 ratings, it provides 100 calories and essential electrolytes per packet. It is caffeine-free, vegan, and gluten-free. Priced at $23.09, it is a great budget option for those looking for an affordable energy gel.
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- GU Energy, Original Energy Gels, Chocolate Outrage Best overall energy gel for workouts 10.0/10 $15.84 Amazon
- GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel Best energy gel with caffeine 9.0/10 $48.00 Amazon
- GU Energy Original Energy Gels Best budget energy gel 8.0/10 $23.09 Amazon
- GU Energy, Original Energy Gels, Campfire Smores Good energy gel with high user satisfaction 7.0/10 $40.80 Amazon
- GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel Decent energy gel with mixed owner feedback 6.0/10 $40.80 Amazon
- GU Energy Gels Raspberry Lemonade Average energy gel with positive owner ratings 5.0/10 $36.44 Amazon
- GU Energy Original Energy Gels Caffeine-Free Mixed Basic energy gel with mixed owner feedback 4.0/10 Amazon
Where the differences show up in daily use
The GU Energy, Original Energy Gels, Chocolate Outrage has the highest owner rating and affordable price. Users appreciate its dual-source carbohydrates, essential electrolytes, and amino acids. The GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel in Espresso Love flavor contains caffeine for an extra energy boost, which may be beneficial for some users. The GU Energy Original Energy Gels contain a variety of flavors at a lower price point, making it a budget-friendly option.
Who should buy which
The GU Energy, Original Energy Gels, Chocolate Outrage is suitable for those looking for a high-quality, affordable energy gel with a variety of flavors. The GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel in Espresso Love flavor is best for users who want an extra caffeine boost. The GU Energy Original Energy Gels are a budget-friendly option for those on a tighter budget.
What owners complain about after buying
Some owners have reported issues with the packaging of the GU Energy Original Energy Gels, with some packets arriving smashed during transit. However, Amazon has been praised for standing behind their products and providing refunds in such cases.
The also-rans
The GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel (ASIN: B085SB1PZ9) and the GU Energy Gels Raspberry Lemonade (ASIN: B0BTJC76C5) did not make our top picks due to lower owner ratings and mixed feedback. The GU Energy Original Energy Gels Caffeine-Free Mixed (ASIN: B0GHDRLCGC) also received mixed feedback, with some owners reporting issues with the product contents.