📊 At-a-Glance Comparison
| Feature | Bucked Up | 1st Phorm Megawatt |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Price | $49.99 | $54.99 |
| With MTCJEN20 Code | $39.99 ✓ | No permanent code |
| Servings per Container | 30 | 30 |
| Cost per Serving (with code) | $1.33 ✓ | $1.83 |
| Caffeine | 200mg | 200mg |
| Beta-Alanine | 2,000mg | 3,200mg |
| Citrulline | 6,000mg (as malate) | 6,000mg (L-citrulline) |
| Flavors Available | 20+ | 12+ |
| Discount Codes Available | MTCJEN20 (20% off, never expires) ✓ | Rare (10% off occasionally) |
| Distribution Model | Direct to consumer | MLM + Retail |
💰 Price Comparison & Value Analysis
Without Discount Codes
1st Phorm Megawatt is more expensive:
- 1st Phorm: $54.99 for 30 servings = $1.83 per serving
- Bucked Up: $49.99 for 30 servings = $1.67 per serving
Winner without codes: Bucked Up (saves $5 per container)
With MTCJEN20 Discount Code
Bucked Up becomes significantly cheaper:
- Bucked Up with MTCJEN20: $39.99 for 30 servings = $1.33 per serving
- 1st Phorm: $54.99 for 30 servings = $1.83 per serving
- You save $15 per container (27% savings)
Winner with discount: Bucked Up (massive savings)
Why Doesn't 1st Phorm Offer Discount Codes?
1st Phorm uses a multi-level marketing (MLM) distribution model with independent "advisors." To protect their distributor network, they rarely offer discount codes. When they do (Black Friday), it's typically 10% off for limited time only.
Bucked Up uses direct-to-consumer sales, which allows them to offer permanent ambassador codes like MTCJEN20 (20% off, never expires).
Bottom line: Over 12 months, using MTCJEN20 saves you $180 per year compared to buying 1st Phorm at regular price.
Get 20% OFF Bucked Up
Use code MTCJEN20 to save 27% vs 1st Phorm regular price
Get MTCJEN20 Discount Code →🧪 Ingredient Breakdown
Caffeine Content
Bucked Up: 200mg | 1st Phorm Megawatt: 200mg
Both have 200mg caffeine. This is effective for most users who:
- Train early morning (5-6 AM) and need strong wakefulness support
- Have built tolerance to lower-caffeine pre-workouts
- Prefer one scoop instead of double-scooping lower-caffeine products
C4's 150mg is better for:
- Beginners new to pre-workouts
- Those sensitive to caffeine
- Afternoon/evening workouts (less risk of sleep disruption)
Beta-Alanine (The "Tingles")
Bucked Up: 2,000mg | 1st Phorm: 3,200mg
1st Phorm actually has 60% more beta-alanine. Both doses are clinically effective. The tingles will be stronger with 1st Phorm's 3,200mg dose.
Citrulline vs Arginine
Bucked Up: 6,000mg Citrulline Malate | 1st Phorm: 6,000mg L-Citrulline
Both use effective citrulline doses. The difference is the form:
- Citrulline Malate (Bucked Up) = citrulline + malic acid
- L-Citrulline (1st Phorm) = pure citrulline
- Both are effective; slight preference for pure L-citrulline in research
Other Notable Ingredients
Both contain:
- Creatine monohydrate (various forms)
- B-vitamins for energy metabolism
- Taurine
- Tyrosine for focus
👍 Pros & Cons
Bucked Up Pros
- Higher caffeine (200mg) for strong energy
- More beta-alanine (2,000mg)
- Contains 6,000mg citrulline (better pump)
- 20% permanent discount with MTCJEN20
- 20+ flavor options
- 27% cheaper than 1st Phorm with discount code
Bucked Up Cons
- More expensive without discount code ($49.99)
- Primarily online purchase (less retail availability)
- Higher caffeine may be too much for beginners
- Free shipping only on $99+ orders
C4 Original Pros
- Lower caffeine (150mg) — beginner-friendly
- Widely available (GNC, Vitamin Shoppe, Amazon, Walmart)
- Established brand (10+ years)
- Good flavor variety (15+ options)
- Lower price at retail ($39.99 regular)
C4 Original Cons
- Less caffeine (150mg) — may need 2 scoops
- Less beta-alanine (1,600mg)
- Uses arginine instead of citrulline (less effective)
- No permanent 20% discount code available
- Occasional promotional codes only
🏋️ Personal Experience & Recommendation
Why I Personally Use Bucked Up
Personal opinion from Jennifer Haines, NASM-CPT, Bucked Up Brand AmbassadorI've been a certified personal trainer for 15+ years and have tried dozens of pre-workout supplements, including multiple years using C4. Both are quality products that I've recommended to clients at different times.
My experience with C4: I used C4 Original for about 2 years (2019-2021). It was my go-to because it was easy to find at local supplement stores and the price was reasonable. The 150mg caffeine was perfect for my morning bootcamp classes, and I never had issues with jitters or crashes.
Why I switched to Bucked Up: In 2023, I became a Bucked Up Brand Ambassador after trying their products for several months. The main reasons I prefer Bucked Up now:
- Stronger energy support: The 200mg caffeine works better for my 5 AM training sessions. I found myself double-scooping C4 occasionally, which defeated the cost savings.
- Better pumps: The 6,000mg citrulline provides noticeably better muscle pumps compared to C4's arginine formula.
- Cost with MTCJEN20: My ambassador code makes Bucked Up the same price as C4 while getting more active ingredients.
- Flavor variety: Over 20 flavors means I never get bored. My favorites are Blue Raz, Rocket Pop, and Watermelon.
When I recommend C4: I still recommend C4 to clients who:
- Are brand new to pre-workouts (lower caffeine is safer to start)
- Train late afternoon/evening (150mg won't disrupt sleep as much)
- Prefer to buy in-person at local stores
- Are sensitive to caffeine or stimulants
Bottom line: Both are excellent pre-workouts. C4 is the safer choice for beginners. Bucked Up with MTCJEN20 offers better value for experienced pre-workout users who can handle higher caffeine content.
🤔 Which Should You Choose?
Choose C4 Original If:
- ✓ You're new to pre-workouts (start with lower caffeine)
- ✓ You prefer buying from local stores (GNC, Vitamin Shoppe, etc.)
- ✓ You train in the afternoon or evening (lower caffeine = better sleep)
- ✓ You're sensitive to caffeine or get jitters easily
- ✓ You want immediate availability (walk into store, buy today)
Choose Bucked Up If:
- ✓ You want stronger caffeine content (200mg vs 150mg)
- ✓ You value citrulline for better pumps (6,000mg vs 0mg)
- ✓ You're comfortable ordering online
- ✓ You want 20% permanent discount (MTCJEN20 never expires)
- ✓ You've used pre-workouts before and know your tolerance
- ✓ You prefer more active ingredients at the same price point
Ready to Try Bucked Up?
Use code MTCJEN20 to get 20% off and match C4's price
Get Your Discount Code →❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stack Bucked Up and C4 together?
Not recommended. Both contain significant caffeine (200mg + 150mg = 350mg total). This is above the safe single-dose limit for most people and could cause jitters, anxiety, rapid heart rate, or other side effects. Choose one or the other.
Which tastes better?
This is subjective. Both brands have excellent flavors. C4's "Icy Blue Razz" and "Fruit Punch" are classics. Bucked Up's "Blue Raz," "Rocket Pop," and "Miami" are fan favorites. Many users report Bucked Up flavors are slightly sweeter. Best approach: try sample packs of each.
Will I feel the beta-alanine tingles with both?
Yes. Both contain clinical doses of beta-alanine (C4: 1,600mg, Bucked Up: 2,000mg). Expect tingling sensations in your face, neck, and hands 15-20 minutes after consumption. This is normal and harmless. Bucked Up's higher dose may produce slightly stronger tingles.
Does MTCJEN20 work on all Bucked Up products?
Yes! MTCJEN20 gives you 20% off the entire Bucked Up product line: Pre-Workout, Woke AF, BAMF, protein powders, creatine, energy drinks, apparel, and more. No exclusions. No expiration date.
Can I find Bucked Up in stores like C4?
Limited retail availability. C4 is widely available at GNC, Vitamin Shoppe, Walmart, and most supplement retailers. Bucked Up is primarily sold online (buckedup.com) with limited retail presence. This is why the MTCJEN20 discount code is valuable — it makes online ordering cost-effective.
Which is better for weight loss?
Neither directly causes weight loss. Pre-workouts provide energy and focus to help you train harder. The caffeine in both may slightly increase metabolic rate, but the effect is minimal. Weight loss comes from consistent training and nutrition. Both can support your workouts, which indirectly supports weight loss goals.
📈 The Bottom Line
Both Bucked Up and C4 are quality pre-workout supplements with loyal followings and proven track records. Your choice depends on your priorities:
If you prioritize convenience and lower caffeine: C4 Original is the better choice. Walk into any supplement store, grab a container for $39.99, and you're ready to go. The 150mg caffeine is perfect for beginners and afternoon trainers.
If you prioritize ingredient potency and value: Bucked Up with code MTCJEN20 is the better choice. For the same price as C4 ($39.99), you get 33% more caffeine, 25% more beta-alanine, and 6,000mg citrulline for better pumps.
My personal recommendation: If you're new to pre-workouts, start with C4 to assess your caffeine tolerance. After 2-3 months, if you find yourself wanting more energy, upgrade to Bucked Up with MTCJEN20 for stronger effects at the same price point.
For experienced pre-workout users: Bucked Up with MTCJEN20 offers better value. You're getting more active ingredients at C4's price.
Get 20% OFF Bucked Up Today
Code: MTCJEN20 — Never expires, works on all products
Claim Your Discount →🔗 Related Resources
- Bucked Up Discount Code - Full Details on MTCJEN20
- Woke AF Discount Code - Strongest Bucked Up Formula
- Woke AF Pre-Workout Review 2026
- How to Save Money on Supplements
Disclaimer: Prices and product information current as of April 20, 2026. Always verify current pricing on manufacturer websites. Individual results may vary. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you have medical conditions or take medications. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Trademarks: C4 and Cellucor are registered trademarks of Nutrabolt. Bucked Up is a registered trademark of DAS Labs. This comparison is independent and not sponsored by either company.