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Head-to-head evidence comparison — which supplement is right for you?
Whey Protein wins 2 of 3 categories. Both are solid choices — the best pick depends on your specific goals.
Verdict
Mostly mechanism / observational
Top outcomes
Verdict
Likely helps
26 of 30 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
100-200mg daily
Morning or early afternoon, 30-60 minutes before focus work, Pre-workout
TeaCrine (branded theacrine)
20-40g per serving
Post-workout (within 2 hours), Morning, Between meals
Whey Protein Isolate
30-60 minutes, lasts 4-6 hours
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
4-8 weeks
24-48 hours post-workout
Immediate
Within hours of consumption
A caffeine and theacrine combination improves cognitive performance in tactical personnel under physically fatiguing conditions
Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (2025) · Rct · n=20
In the Object Hit & Avoid task, CAF and CTC significantly improved task accuracy (p < 0.01) while reducing omission (p < 0.01) and commission errors (p < 0.01) compared to PLA.
Theacrine as a novel ergogenic aid: impact on canoe sprint performance
Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (2025) · Rct · n=20
Caffeine significantly improved the 500-meter time trial (-1.872 s vs.
Uncovering the effects and mechanisms of tea and its components on depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders: A comprehensive review
Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.) (2024) · Systematic review
The underlying molecular mechanisms involve the regulation of neurotransmitters, including monoamines, GABA, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), as well as the suppression of oxidative stress and inflammation.
Comparative Efficacy of Different Protein Supplements on Muscle Mass, Strength, and Physical Indices of Sarcopenia among Community-Dwelling, Hospitalized or Institutionalized Older Adults Undergoing Resistance Training: A Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Nutrients (2024) · Meta analysis · n=5272
Treatment effects for main outcomes were expressed as standard mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI).
Effects of Whey Protein, Leucine, and Vitamin D Supplementation in Patients with Sarcopenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Nutrients (2023) · Meta analysis · n=637
However, appendicular muscle mass significantly improved in the experimental group compared to the control group.
A systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression of the effect of protein supplementation on resistance training-induced gains in muscle mass and strength
British Journal of Sports Medicine (2018) · Meta analysis · n=1863
Protein supplementation increases muscle mass gains
Effects are modest and inconsistent across studies. Several RCTs showed no significant cognitive improvements. Benefits appear primarily in subjective energy/focus rather than objective cognitive tasks. Studies show mixed results with some finding no statistical significance.
Based on multiple meta-analyses with >3000 participants. Effects require concurrent resistance training. Benefits plateau around 30-40g per serving. Isolate forms may reduce digestive issues.
AI-estimated from published studies. Interpret as directional guidance.
Whey Protein has a higher evidence score (9/10 vs 5.5/10) and wins in 2 of 3 categories.
For boost daily energy, Theacrine has a higher relevance score (80 vs 60).
No known interactions between Theacrine and Whey Protein have been documented in our database. However, always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements.