The 6 Best SARMs in 2024 – Your Complete Guide

The world of SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) can be exciting yet overwhelming for newcomers and experienced users alike. 

With different SARMs offering unique benefits – from unprecedented muscle growth and fat burning to enhanced muscle recovery, and endurance – choosing the right one for your needs is no easy task.

That’s where this all-encompassing guide comes in, cataloging the 6 best SARMs in 2024 based on real-world feedback and scientific evidence. 

I’ll provide you with everything you need to know before selecting the top SARMs for your bodybuilding or athletic goals.

Let’s get straight into it!

Key Takeaways

Feature	Ostarine (MK-2866)	Ligandrol (LGD-4033)	Testolone (RAD-140)	Andarine (S4)	YK-11	Cardarine (GW-501516)
Primary Benefit	Versatility 🔄	Muscle Growth 💪	Strength Gains 🏋️	Fat Loss 🔥	Rapid Muscle Gain 📈	Endurance Boost 🏃
Beginner Friendly	Yes ✅	Moderate 🟨	No ❌	Moderate 🟨	No ❌	Yes ✅
Suppression Level	Low 📉	Moderate 📊	High 📈	Moderate 📊	High 📈	None 🚫
Side Effects	Mild 😌	Moderate 😐	Moderate to High 😬	Moderate 😐	Potentially High 😰	Mild 😌
Bulking Effectiveness	Moderate 🏗️	High 🏗️🏗️	Very High 🏗️🏗️🏗️	Low 🏗️	Very High 🏗️🏗️🏗️	Low 🏗️
Cutting Effectiveness	High ✂️✂️	Moderate ✂️	Moderate ✂️	High ✂️✂️	Low ✂️	Very High ✂️✂️✂️
Research Availability	High 🔬🔬🔬	Moderate 🔬🔬	Low 🔬	Moderate 🔬🔬	Very Low 🔬	Moderate 🔬🔬
Overall Score (1-10)	8️⃣	7️⃣	7️⃣	6️⃣	6️⃣	8️⃣

What Are SARMs?

SARMs, or Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators, are a class of therapeutic compounds that have similar effects to anabolic steroids but with reduced androgenic properties. 

In simpler terms, they’re designed to selectively target muscle and bone tissue, promoting growth and recovery without many of the unwanted side effects associated with traditional steroids.

Originally developed for medical purposes, such as treating muscle wasting diseases and osteoporosis, SARMs have found their way into the fitness world due to their potential to enhance performance and physique. But here’s the kicker – they’re not approved for human consumption outside of clinical trials. This means that while they’re incredibly popular, they exist in a bit of a legal gray area.

Now, let’s dive into the crème de la crème of SARMs, shall we?

The 6 Best SARMs for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss, and Performance

1. Ostarine (MK-2866)

Ostarine, also known as MK-2866 or Enobosarm, is often hailed as the king of SARMs, and for good reason. It’s one of the most well-researched and mildest SARMs available, making it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced users alike.

How it Works

Ostarine works by binding to androgen receptors in your muscles and bones, stimulating protein synthesis and increasing nitrogen retention. This leads to increased muscle mass and improved bone density. What sets Ostarine apart is its versatility – it’s effective for both bulking and cutting cycles.

In my years of research and personal experience, I’ve seen Ostarine work wonders for people looking to maintain muscle mass while cutting fat. It’s like having your cake and eating it too – you can shed those extra pounds without sacrificing your hard-earned gains.

Key Points:

• Mild and well-tolerated, ideal for beginners
• Effective for both bulking and cutting
• Helps preserve muscle mass during calorie deficit
• Improves bone density and joint health
• Minimal suppression of natural testosterone production

Pros:

• Versatile for various fitness goals
• Relatively mild side effects compared to other SARMs
• Can be used by both men and women (at lower doses for women)
• Helps improve overall body composition

Cons:

• May still cause mild testosterone suppression
• Not as powerful for pure muscle gain as some other SARMs
• Long-term effects still not fully understood

2. Ligandrol (LGD-4033)

If you’re looking to pack on serious muscle, Ligandrol might just be your new best friend. This potent SARM is known for its ability to rapidly increase lean muscle mass and strength.

How it Works

Ligandrol works by selectively binding to androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissue. It’s incredibly anabolic, meaning it promotes muscle growth, but with fewer androgenic side effects than traditional steroids. In my experience, users often report significant muscle tissue strength gains within just a few weeks of starting a Ligandrol cycle.

What’s particularly impressive about Ligandrol is its ability to promote lean muscle growth even at very low doses. In fact, studies have shown measurable lean mass gains with doses as low as 1mg per day. That’s efficiency at its finest!

Key Points:

• Highly effective for increasing lean muscle mass
• Significant strength gains
• Improved bone density
• Effective at low doses
• Faster recovery times

Pros:

• Rapid muscle and strength gains
• Effective even at low doses
• May help with fat loss while building muscle
• Improved recovery and endurance

Cons:

• More suppressive than Ostarine
• May cause mild side effects like headaches or nausea
• Requires a proper PCT (Post Cycle Therapy)

3. Testolone (RAD-140)

Testolone, often referred to as RAD-140, is the heavyweight champion of SARMs when it comes to raw power and muscle-building potential. If you’re looking to break through plateaus and achieve mind-blowing strength gains, Testolone might be the answer.

How it Works

RAD-140 is one of the newest SARMs on the block, but it’s quickly gained a reputation as one of the most potent. It binds to androgen receptors with high affinity and selectivity, meaning it’s incredibly effective at stimulating muscle growth and strength increases.

In my research, I’ve seen users report incredible strength gains – we’re talking about adding 20-30 pounds to major lifts in just a few weeks. But it’s not just about brute strength. Testolone also seems to enhance muscle hardness and vascularity, giving users that coveted “dry” look.

Key Points:

• Extremely potent for muscle growth and strength gains
• Enhances muscle hardness and vascularity
• May have neuroprotective properties
• High anabolic to androgenic ratio
• Potentially useful for treating breast cancer (still in research phase)

Pros:

• Rapid and significant strength increases
• Substantial muscle mass gains
• May improve cognitive function
• Could potentially be used in medical treatments

Cons:

• More likely to cause testosterone suppression
• May cause more pronounced side effects
• Relatively new, so long-term effects are unknown
• Requires careful dosing and cycle management

4. Andarine (S4)

If you’re looking to shed fat while maintaining (or even gaining) lean muscle mass, Andarine might be your secret weapon. This SARM is particularly popular among bodybuilders during cutting phases.

How it Works

Andarine, also known as S4, was originally developed to treat muscle wasting diseases and osteoporosis. It works by binding to androgen receptors in both muscle and fat tissue. What’s unique about Andarine is its ability to increase fat oxidation while preserving and maintaining muscle mass throughout.

In my experience, users often report a dramatic improvement in muscle definition and vascularity when using Andarine. It’s like it helps sculpt your muscles, giving you that “shrink-wrapped” look that’s so coveted on stage.

Key Points:

• Excellent for fat loss and cutting cycles
• Helps preserve muscle mass during calorie deficits
• Improves muscle hardness and vascularity
• May increase strength and endurance
• Could potentially improve bone density

Pros:

• Effective for fat loss without muscle wasting
• Enhances muscle definition and vascularity
• May improve athletic performance
• Can be stacked with other SARMs for enhanced effects

Cons:

• May cause vision side effects (yellow tint, difficulty adjusting to dark)
• Could suppress natural testosterone production
• Requires frequent dosing due to short half-life

5. YK-11

YK-11 is a bit of a wild card in the world of SARMs. It’s often classified as a SARM, but its structure and mechanism of action are unique, making it stand out from the crowd.

YK-11

YK-11 is thought to work as both a SARM and a myostatin inhibitor. Myostatin is a protein that limits muscle growth, so by inhibiting it, YK-11 may allow for muscle growth beyond natural genetic limitations.

What’s particularly interesting about YK-11 is its potential to increase follistatin levels. Follistatin is another protein that blocks myostatin, potentially leading to even greater muscle growth. In my research, I’ve seen users report rapid and significant muscle gains with YK-11, often describing it as “steroid-like” in its effects.

Key Points:

• Unique hybrid SARM and myostatin inhibitor
• May increase follistatin levels
• Potential for rapid and significant muscle gains
• Could enhance bone formation
• Extremely potent, even at low doses

Pros:

• Potentially the most anabolic SARM available
• May allow for muscle growth beyond genetic limits
• Could enhance bone strength
• Rapid strength and size increases

Cons:

• Limited research available
• Potential for stronger side effects
• May require more careful cycle management
• Not recommended for beginners

6. Cardarine (GW-501516)

Alright, I’m going to let you in on a little secret – Cardarine isn’t actually a SARM. It’s a PPAR-delta agonist. But it’s so commonly grouped with SARMs and so effective that it deserves a spot on this list.

Detailed Overview

Cardarine works by activating the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) delta. This leads to a host of beneficial effects, particularly on endurance and fat metabolism. It’s like flipping a switch in your body to burn fat more efficiently, increase muscle mass and boost your endurance to superhuman levels.

In my years of research, I’ve seen athletes and bodybuilders alike rave about Cardarine’s effects on endurance. We’re talking about significant increases in running distance, faster recovery between sets, and enhanced fat burning. It’s like having an extra gear that you never knew existed.

Key Points:

• Dramatically improves endurance and stamina
• Enhances fat burning and metabolism
• May improve cardiovascular health
• Could potentially lower LDL cholesterol
• No testosterone suppression

Pros:

• Significant endurance boost
• Aids in fat loss
• May have health benefits beyond performance enhancement
• Can be used by both men and women
• No PCT required

Cons:

• Potential cancer risk in high doses (based on animal studies)
• May cause side effects like headaches or insomnia in some users

Understanding the half-life of each SARM is crucial for determining optimal dosing frequency and cycle length.

SARM	Half-Life	Recommended Dosing Frequency
Ostarine (MK-2866)	24 hours	Once daily
Ligandrol (LGD-4033)	24-36 hours	Once daily
Testolone (RAD-140)	20-60 hours	Once daily
Andarine (S4)	4-6 hours	2-3 times daily
YK-11	6-10 hours	2 times daily
Cardarine (GW-501516)	16-24 hours	Once daily

How to Choose the Right SARM for You

Now that we’ve covered the top 6 SARMs, you might be wondering which one is right for you. The truth is, the best SARM (or combination of SARMs) depends on your specific goals, experience level, and individual response to these compounds.

Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

1. For Beginners: Start with Ostarine. It’s mild, well-researched, and versatile.
2. For Bulking: Consider Ligandrol or RAD-140 for significant muscle gains.
3. For Cutting: Andarine or Ostarine can help preserve muscle while cutting fat.
4. For Recomposition: A combination of Ostarine and Cardarine can be effective.
5. For Strength: RAD-140 is king for pure strength gains.
6. For Endurance: Cardarine is unmatched for improving stamina and endurance.

Remember, it’s always best to start with lower doses and single compounds before considering more advanced stacks or cycles.

The Importance of Proper Cycling and PCT

Listen up, because this part is crucial. SARMs, while generally milder than traditional steroids, are still powerful compounds that can affect your body’s natural hormone production. This means that proper cycling and post-cycle therapy (PCT) are essential.

A typical SARM cycle lasts between 8-12 weeks, followed by a period of PCT to help your body restore its natural testosterone production. The length and intensity of your PCT will depend on the specific SARMs used, dosage, and cycle length.

Here’s a basic outline of a responsible SARM cycle:

1. Weeks 1-8: SARM cycle (e.g., Ostarine at 25mg/day)
2. Weeks 9-10: Break (allow the compound to clear your system)
3. Weeks 11-14: PCT (e.g., Nolvadex at 20mg/day)

Remember, this is just an example. Your specific cycle and PCT should be tailored to your individual needs and response to the compounds.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Considerations

While SARMs are generally considered to have fewer side effects than traditional anabolic steroids, they’re not without risks. Some potential side effects include:

• Testosterone suppression
• Liver strain
• Headaches
• Mood changes
• Acne
• Hair loss (in those predisposed to male pattern baldness)

It’s crucial to note that the long-term effects of SARMs are still not fully understood. These compounds have not been approved for human consumption outside of clinical trials, which means using them for performance enhancement comes with inherent health risks too.

Always prioritize your health and safety. Start with low doses, monitor your body growth hormone amount’s response closely, and consider regular blood work to keep an eye on your hormone levels and overall health markers.

The Legal Status of SARMs

Here’s where things get a bit tricky. The legal status of SARMs is a bit of a gray area. In the United States, SARMs are not approved for human consumption outside of clinical trials. They’re often sold as “research chemicals” with disclaimers stating they’re not for human use.

However, the reality is that many people are using SARMs for performance enhancement. It’s important to be aware that purchasing and using SARMs may put you at legal risk, particularly if you’re a competitive athlete. Many sporting organizations have banned SARMs, and they can be detected in drug tests.

Always do your research and understand the legal implications in your specific location before considering SARM use.

Alternatives to SARMs

If you’re not comfortable with the potential risks or legal status of SARMs, there are alternatives you can consider:

1. Creatine: One of the most well-researched and effective supplements for increasing muscle mass and strength.
2. Protein Supplements: Whey, casein, or plant-based proteins can help support muscle growth and recovery.
3. Beta-Alanine: Can improve endurance and reduce fatigue during high-intensity exercises.
4. Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs): May help reduce muscle soreness and improve recovery.
5. Natural Testosterone Boosters: Supplements like D-Aspartic Acid, Fenugreek, and Ashwagandha may help support natural testosterone levels.

Remember, no supplement can replace physical fitness, a solid training program and proper nutrition. These should always be your foundation for achieving your fitness goals.

Are SARMs Right for You?

SARMs offer exciting possibilities for enhancing physical performance and body composition. They’ve helped countless individuals break through plateaus and achieve impressive results. However, they’re not magic pills, and they come with risks that need to be carefully considered.

If you decide to explore SARMs, do so with caution and respect for these powerful compounds. Start with thorough research, consult with knowledgeable professionals, and always prioritize your long-term health over short-term gains.

Remember, the most sustainable and healthy way to achieve your fitness goals is through consistent training, proper nutrition, and adequate rest. SARMs can be a tool in your arsenal, but they should never be a substitute for the fundamentals.

Whatever path you choose, stay informed, stay safe, and keep pushing towards your goals. Your ideal physique is within reach – it just takes dedication, smart choices, and perhaps a little help from science.