Best Exogenous Ketones (2026)

Exogenous ketones are supplemental beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) compounds that raise blood ketone levels independently of diet. They provide the body with an immediate source of ketone fuel, helping keto dieters transition into ketosis faster, sustain energy during fasting, and power through workouts without relying on carbohydrates. Available as BHB salts (bound to sodium, calcium, magnesium, or potassium) or ketone esters, these supplements have become essential tools for both ketogenic dieters and athletes seeking clean, sustained energy.

Quick Comparison

Product	BHB Type	Form	Best For	Rating
Real Ketones BHB Packets	Patented BHB + Electrolytes	Powder Packets	Best Overall	9.5/10
Keto BHB (BHB Science) with goBHB	goBHB + Caffeine	Capsules	Best Capsule	9.2/10
Keto BHB Salts Capsules (goBHB)	goBHB Salts (Na, Ca, Mg)	Capsules	Best Caffeine-Free	9.0/10
Real Ketones MCT & BHB Elevate	BHB + MCT Oil	Powder Packets	Best BHB + MCT Combo	9.0/10
Keto BHB Salts with Caffeine	goBHB + Caffeine	Capsules	Best Pre-Workout	8.8/10
Lipo Burn Keto BHB	BHB + Capsimax + Caffeine	Capsules	Best Thermogenic BHB	8.6/10
Perfect Keto Exogenous Ketones Powder	D/L-BHB Salts	Powder	Best Tasting Powder	8.5/10
Nutricost Keto BHB 4-in-1	12g BHB (Ca, Mg, Na, K)	Powder	Best High-Dose BHB	8.4/10

1. Real Ketones BHB Electrolyte Packets – Best Overall

Real Ketones combines patented BHB exogenous ketones with all four essential fasting electrolytes in convenient single-serve drink mix packets, setting the standard for comprehensive ketone supplementation.

Each packet delivers a clinically meaningful dose of BHB salts alongside sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. The combination addresses both ketone elevation and electrolyte replenishment, the two biggest needs during ketosis. The sugar-free formula comes in a variety pack with multiple flavors. Real Ketones is one of the few exogenous ketone brands with direct ties to ketogenic diet research, and their patented formulation has been tested in peer-reviewed studies.

• Pros:
• Research-backed patented BHB formulation
• Complete electrolyte profile included
• Convenient single-serve packets with multiple flavors

• Cons:
• Higher price per serving than capsule alternatives
• Some users need adjustment period for BHB digestion

Best for: Anyone who wants the most comprehensive exogenous ketone product with electrolyte support included

2. Keto BHB Exogenous Ketones (BHB Science) – Best Capsule

BHB Science uses patented goBHB with added caffeine in a convenient capsule format, providing fast-acting ketone elevation and clean energy without any mixing or measuring.

goBHB is the most widely used and researched exogenous ketone compound, found in premium ketone products worldwide. This formula pairs it with natural caffeine for enhanced mental clarity and physical energy. The capsule format is ideal for those who dislike the taste of BHB powder (which can be salty and slightly bitter) or need a portable option for travel and work. Each bottle provides a one-month supply of vegetarian, non-GMO capsules.

• Pros:
• Patented goBHB, the gold standard in exogenous ketones
• Added caffeine for synergistic energy boost
• No mixing, no taste, maximum convenience

• Cons:
• Lower BHB dose per serving than powder formats
• Caffeine limits timing flexibility

Best for: Those who want a convenient, portable BHB capsule with an energy boost for mornings or pre-workout

3. Keto BHB Salts Capsules – Best Caffeine-Free

These stimulant-free BHB salt capsules deliver patented goBHB bound to sodium, calcium, and magnesium for clean ketone elevation any time of day without caffeine or stimulants.

For those who are sensitive to caffeine or want to take exogenous ketones in the evening, this caffeine-free formulation provides the same goBHB ketone base without any stimulant ingredients. The BHB salts are bound to three essential electrolyte minerals, providing modest mineral support alongside ketone elevation. The clean formula contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

• Pros:
• Completely caffeine-free for flexible dosing
• Patented goBHB ketone compound
• Electrolyte minerals from BHB salt carriers

• Cons:
• No additional energy support without caffeine
• Capsule format delivers less BHB than powder

Best for: Caffeine-sensitive individuals or anyone who wants evening-compatible exogenous ketone support

4. Real Ketones MCT & BHB Elevate – Best BHB + MCT Combo

Real Ketones Elevate pairs MCT oil with BHB ketones and electrolytes, creating a dual-pathway ketone supplement that delivers both immediate and sustained ketone elevation.

BHB salts provide immediate ketone availability within 30-60 minutes, while MCTs are converted to ketones by the liver over 2-4 hours. This dual-pathway approach creates a more sustained ketone curve than either ingredient alone. The added electrolytes round out the formula for comprehensive keto support. Available in drink mix packets for easy preparation.

• Pros:
• Dual-pathway ketone production (immediate BHB + sustained MCT)
• Includes electrolytes for complete support
• Sustained energy over several hours

• Cons:
• MCT content may cause initial GI adjustment
• Premium pricing for the combination formula

Best for: Those who want the longest-lasting ketone elevation from a single product

5. Keto BHB Salts with Caffeine – Best Pre-Workout

This caffeinated goBHB formula is specifically designed for pre-workout use, combining exogenous ketones with natural caffeine for peak physical and mental performance on keto.

The synergy between BHB ketones and caffeine creates a clean energy experience that surpasses either ingredient alone. BHB provides sustained fuel for muscles and brain while caffeine enhances alertness, reaction time, and training intensity. The sodium, calcium, and magnesium BHB carriers also contribute to the electrolyte support needed during intense exercise. This makes it a direct replacement for carb-heavy pre-workout supplements.

• Pros:
• Designed specifically for pre-workout use
• Synergistic BHB + caffeine energy combination
• Replaces carb-based pre-workout for keto athletes

• Cons:
• Not suitable for evening training sessions
• Caffeine may stack with other stimulant sources

Best for: Keto athletes and gym-goers who need a clean pre-workout alternative to carb-based energy supplements

6. Lipo Burn Keto BHB – Best Thermogenic BHB

Lipo Burn combines BHB exogenous ketones with Capsimax (capsaicin extract) and caffeine for a thermogenic formula that supports both ketosis and metabolic heat production.

This formula goes beyond basic ketone support by adding Capsimax, a patented capsaicin extract shown to increase metabolic rate and support fat oxidation. Combined with BHB for ketone fuel and caffeine for energy, it creates a multi-action supplement targeting both ketosis and thermogenesis. The approach appeals to keto dieters who prioritize body composition and want their exogenous ketone supplement to do more than just raise ketone levels.

• Pros:
• Patented Capsimax for thermogenic support
• Multi-action: ketosis + metabolism + energy
• BHB with goBHB compound

• Cons:
• Capsaicin may cause a warming sensation
• Multiple active ingredients may not suit everyone

Best for: Keto dieters focused on body composition who want thermogenic support alongside ketone elevation

7. Perfect Keto Exogenous Ketones Powder – Best Tasting Powder

Perfect Keto reformulated their original BHB powder to eliminate bitterness using monk fruit sweetener, creating a genuinely delicious exogenous ketone drink in multiple flavors.

BHB salts are notoriously bitter and salty, which has been the biggest barrier to powdered ketone supplement adoption. Perfect Keto’s advanced formula specifically tackles this with monk fruit sweetener and natural flavoring that masks the characteristic BHB taste. Each serving provides 11.4 grams of D/L-BHB bound to sodium, magnesium, and calcium, plus added electrolytes and vitamin D. Available in strawberry lemonade, chocolate, vanilla, and other flavors.

• Pros:
• Significantly better taste than typical BHB powders
• 11.4g BHB per serving with electrolytes
• Multiple flavor options including chocolate and vanilla

• Cons:
• Higher price per serving than capsule alternatives
• High magnesium content may cause GI sensitivity

Best for: Anyone who has been turned off by the taste of BHB powders and wants a genuinely enjoyable ketone drink

8. Nutricost Keto BHB 4-in-1 – Best High-Dose BHB

Nutricost packs 12 grams of BHB per serving across four mineral carriers (calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium) using goBHB, delivering one of the highest BHB doses available.

For those who want maximum ketone elevation per serving, Nutricost’s 4-in-1 formula provides 12 grams of BHB salts, significantly more than most competitors. The four-mineral carrier system (calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium) distributes the BHB across multiple electrolytes for balanced absorption and mineral support. The unflavored powder mixes into any beverage. Made in an NSF-certified facility with non-GMO ingredients and no artificial flavors or sweeteners.

• Pros:
• 12g BHB per serving, among the highest available
• Four-mineral carrier for balanced electrolyte support
• NSF-certified facility, competitive pricing

• Cons:
• Unflavored version has a strong salty-bitter taste
• High magnesium per serving may cause digestive sensitivity

Best for: Experienced ketone users who want maximum BHB per serving and don’t mind the taste

How to Choose the Best Exogenous Ketones

The most important factor is the type and dose of BHB. Products using patented goBHB have the most research supporting their effectiveness. Look for a minimum of 6-12 grams of BHB per serving in powders, or 800-1600mg per serving in capsules. Higher doses generally produce more noticeable ketone elevation, though individual responses vary. Products listing a “proprietary blend” without specifying the BHB amount should be avoided.

BHB salts come bound to different minerals: sodium, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Products using multiple carriers (like Nutricost’s 4-in-1) distribute the mineral load more evenly, reducing the risk of consuming too much of any single electrolyte. This also provides broader electrolyte support. Sodium-heavy formulations can increase blood pressure in sensitive individuals, so check the sodium content per serving.

Choose your form based on priorities. Powders deliver the highest BHB doses per serving and mix into drinks, but the taste can be challenging. Capsules offer zero taste and maximum convenience but deliver lower BHB per serving. Drink mix packets provide pre-measured convenience with decent doses. Liquid ketone esters deliver the highest ketone elevation but are extremely expensive and taste very harsh.

Consider what else is in the formula. Some products add caffeine for energy, MCT oil for sustained ketone production, or electrolytes for hydration support. These additions add value if they align with your needs but increase the price. If you already take caffeine and electrolytes separately, a pure BHB product may be more cost-effective.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are exogenous ketones and how do they work?

Exogenous ketones are supplemental beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) that you consume orally to raise blood ketone levels. Unlike endogenous ketones produced by your liver during fasting or carb restriction, exogenous ketones provide an external source of ketone fuel. They are absorbed through the digestive system and enter the bloodstream, where cells can use them for energy production, particularly the brain and muscles.

How long does it take for exogenous ketones to work?

BHB salts typically elevate blood ketone levels within 30-60 minutes of consumption, with peak levels reached at approximately 60-90 minutes. The ketone elevation generally lasts 2-4 hours depending on the dose and whether you consumed them with food. Taking them on an empty stomach produces faster but shorter-lasting results.

Do exogenous ketones put you in ketosis?

Exogenous ketones raise blood ketone levels but do not directly cause nutritional ketosis, which requires reducing carbohydrate intake so the liver produces its own ketones. BHB supplements provide ketone fuel regardless of your carb intake, but for sustained, diet-driven ketosis, carbohydrate restriction is still necessary. They are best used to support and accelerate the transition into ketosis rather than as a substitute for dietary changes.

Can I take exogenous ketones while fasting?

Yes, exogenous ketones are commonly used during intermittent fasting. Pure BHB products with minimal calories do not significantly disrupt a fast for most purposes, while providing energy and mental clarity during the fasting window. Some strict fasting protocols may consider any caloric supplement as breaking the fast, so this depends on your fasting goals and definitions.

Are there side effects of exogenous ketones?

The most common side effects are digestive, including stomach discomfort, nausea, and diarrhea, particularly at higher doses or when first starting. These usually resolve within a few days as the body adjusts. Starting with half a serving and increasing gradually is recommended. High-sodium BHB products may not be suitable for those monitoring sodium intake. The characteristic BHB taste (salty and slightly bitter) is unpleasant for many people.

What is the difference between BHB salts and ketone esters?

BHB salts bind beta-hydroxybutyrate to mineral carriers like sodium, calcium, or magnesium. They are widely available, relatively affordable, and easier to tolerate. Ketone esters bind BHB to a ketone backbone (typically 1,3-butanediol), producing higher blood ketone levels but at a significantly higher cost and with a much harsher taste. BHB salts raise ketones to approximately 0.5-1.5 mmol/L, while ketone esters can achieve 3-5 mmol/L or higher.