Dust Extreme VS Dust X Pre Workout 2025 UPDATED

📖 Table of Contents

• Dust Extreme Pre-Workout
• Dust X Pre-Workout
• Flavors
• Reviews
• What To Expect
• Similar To Dust X
• Where To Buy
• Warnings And Side Effects
• Disclaimer

When you’re tired, unmotivated, and dragging your feet, few things hit harder than a good pre-workout. Whether it’s a trusted formula or your go-to scoop before every gym session, that rush of energy can make all the difference. But what happens when your favorite pre-workout gets reformulated or even discontinued? That’s exactly what happened with Dust Extreme by Blackstone Labs—a legendary high-stim pre that was pulled due to regulatory pressure around DMAA.

In response, Blackstone Labs launched Dust X: a fully revamped, DMAA-free formula using DMHA. So, what’s the real difference between Dust Extreme and Dust X? Is Dust X just as strong—or stronger? Does it deliver the same tunnel vision focus and skin-splitting pumps?

In this blog, we break it all down—from ingredient swaps and energy feel to flavor upgrades and performance in the gym—so you know exactly what to expect.

Interested in Dust V2? We did a review here!

 Quick Facts: Dust X

• Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
• Best For: Experienced lifters seeking high-energy, tunnel-vision focus†
• Servings: 25
• Caffeine: 350 mg per scoop
• Key Stimulant Blend: DMHA, Caffeine Anhydrous, Phenylethylamine (PEA)†
• Calories: 0
• Cost per Serving: ~$1.80

 

Dust Extreme Pre-Workout: Why It Was Replaced

Dust Extreme earned its place as one of the most intense high-stimulant pre-workouts on the market. Known for its laser-like focus, aggressive energy boost, and hard-hitting DMAA formula, it quickly became a favorite among experienced users seeking hardcore gym sessions.†

But as regulations tightened, the FDA cracked down on DMAA in 2017, forcing manufacturers like Blackstone Labs to discontinue products containing the banned stimulant. That included Dust Extreme. In response, Blackstone launched a reformulated version, Dust X, designed to deliver a similar performance legally, without DMAA.†

Dust X Pre Workout: 

Dust X may be a new name, but the core formula and effects remain nearly identical to Dust Extreme, with a few key updates. The new formula contains L-Tyrosine, Phenylethylamine, 2-aminoisoheptane, and Nelumbo nucifera (actually Nelumbo Nucifera). The phenylethylamine is the only extra ingredient in this new formula. While the others are more of a swap.†

 Ingredient Breakdown and What It Means for You

L-Tyrosine vs N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine (NAT):

Both versions of Dust include Tyrosine, a key amino acid that helps produce dopamine, and norepinephrine, which supports alertness, mood, and focus. (1)

In Dust Extreme, the formula used N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine (NAT), a more water-soluble form. However, research shows that NAT has poor conversion into usable L-Tyrosine, making it less effective overall. (2) Dust X corrects this by using pure L-Tyrosine, which—although less soluble—provides better bioavailability and stronger nootropic effects in the body.†

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Phenylethylamine (PEA) – A New Focus Booster:

PEA is a natural alkaloid that acts as a stimulant and mood enhancer. It helps elevate dopamine and serotonin levels, supporting a euphoric feeling and heightened mental clarity during training. This means you may experience better motivation, drive, and tunnel-vision focus in Dust X compared to Dust Extreme, especially with PEA and Huperzine working together. (3,4)

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Nelumbo Nucifera (Standardized for Higenamine):

In Dust Extreme, Higenamine HCl was used directly. In Dust X, it’s sourced naturally from Nelumbo Nucifera (lotus extract) but standardized to deliver the same compound.†

The milligram dosage and effect remain the same, so there’s no real change in function, just a botanical source.†

So what does Higenamine do anyway?

Higenamine is a beta-agonist often compared to ephedrine and synephrine. But its chemical structure is pretty unique. It promotes fat breakdown and acts as a vasodilator, increasing blood flow to muscles and supporting better pumps and nutrient delivery during your workout. This can help promote larger pumps and better vascularity, especially when paired with Citrulline and Agmatine. (5)

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2-Aminoisoheptane (DMHA) Replaces DMAA:

Finally, the most important change: DMAA is gone, and DMHA (2-aminoisoheptane) steps in. Like most ingredients, 2-Aminoisoheptane has a few names, such as 2-amino-6-methylheptane and 2-amino-5-methylheptane. DMHA is a legal alternative stimulant known for its powerful—but smoother and more sustained—energy. While DMAA was short and aggressive, DMHA delivers a longer, cleaner high with less of a crash. Dust X contains 150 mg of DMHA, which is roughly equivalent in stimulant strength to 60–75 mg of DMAA—double the dose to achieve a similar effect. (6)

Flavor and Taste Improvements

While Dust Extreme offered only two flavors—notably Sour Gummy Bear and Pineapple Mango—many users felt limited by the small lineup and sometimes inconsistent taste profiles . With Dust X, Blackstone Labs expanded and refined the flavor menu, delivering six distinct, more enjoyable options:

• Sour Gummy Bear
• Cotton Candy
• Pineapple Mango
• Cool Lime
• Passion Fruit
• Candy Apple

What Customers Are Saying:

“ …The cucumber lime flavor is delicious and refreshing…”
–Customer Review By N/A, SameDaySupplements.com

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“Pineapple Mango… Never tasted a better supplement. Strong energy, perfect sweetness.”
– Customer Review By Jonathan, SameDaySupplements.com

By increasing flavor variety and tweaking the formulas (improving solubility and balancing sweetness), Dust X ensures that every scoop not only delivers hard-hitting performance but also tastes great—no more holding your nose and “chugging” your pre-workout.†

Dust X Pre-Workout Reviews:

Customer Review By Frank: “Strong energy and focus. No crash, just pure drive from start to finish. Definitely one of the strongest pre-workouts I’ve tried.” 

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Customer Review By Nick: “Dust X gets me going in the gym. High energy + more focus. I always come back to this pre”

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Dust Extreme Review By Rodger: “I have tried multiple different pre workouts and still after all these years Dust X is still the best.”

What Can You Expect?

While Dust X doesn’t reinvent the wheel, the few ingredient swaps made—from DMAA to DMHA, from NAT to L-Tyrosine—do create a noticeably different feel in the gym. That’s not a bad thing. In fact, many users prefer the smoother energy curve, enhanced mental clarity, and reduced post-workout crash.†

Whether you’re returning to Dust after the DMAA era or trying it for the first time, here’s what you can expect:

🔋 Explosive Energy – Without the Crash

Dust X delivers a powerful energy boost using 350 mg of caffeine and 150 mg of DMHA. Unlike DMAA, DMHA provides a smoother, more sustained stimulant experience—so you may get intense energy to power through your workout, without the harsh crash DMAA was known for.†

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🧠 Laser Focus & Elevated Mood

With the addition of Phenylethylamine (PEA) and Huperzine A, Dust X enhances mental clarity and mood. You may expect “tunnel vision” focus and a mild sense of euphoria that keeps you dialed in throughout your session.†

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💪 Skin-Stretching Pumps

Thanks to 4 g of Citrulline Malate and 1 g of Agmatine, Dust X delivers more than just energy. You may experience vascularity, muscle fullness, and improved nutrient delivery, supporting better pumps, even though it’s primarily a high-stim formula.†

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🔁 Improved Endurance

With 2.5 g of Beta-Alanine, you may experience reduced fatigue and the ability to push through a few extra reps. The familiar tingling sensation is your cue that it’s working to buffer lactic acid buildup during intense sets.†

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🏋️ Strength Through Stimulation

While it doesn’t include creatine, the combo of high-dose stimulants and focus enhancers supports perceived strength, motivation, and drive. Many users report that Dust X helps them crush big lifts and push harder in the gym.†

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Note: This is still a high-stimulant pre-workout—not recommended for beginners or users sensitive to caffeine or potent stimulants like DMHA. If you’re new to Dust X, start with ½ scoop to assess tolerance.

Similar To Dust X:

Looking for pre-workouts with similar high-stimulant intensity and performance benefits? Dust X stands among an elite class of competitive formulas. Below, we compare it to other top-tier pre-workouts—including Dust Reloaded, BZRK,  Mesomorph, and Jack3d.

• Dust Reloaded
• BZRK
• Mesomorph Pre Workout
• Jack3d Pre Workout

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Dust X VS Dust Reloaded:

Shared Ingredients:

• L-Citrulline
• Beta Alanine
• Tyrosine (different forms)
• Phenylethylamine (PEA)
• Caffeine

Key Differences:

• L-Citrulline Silicate (500mg) in Dust Reloaded vs L-Citrulline Malate (4g) in Dust X → better pumps expected from Dust X†
• Beta-Alanine: 1g in Reloaded vs 2.5g in Dust X → slight endurance edge to Dust X†
• Tyrosine Form: Reloaded uses 75mg N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine (NAT) vs 1g L-Tyrosine in Dust X → L-Tyrosine has better bioavailability†
• Caffeine Complex: Reloaded has 200mg total caffeine (incl. DiCaffeine Malate) vs 350mg in Dust X → higher stim, longer-lasting energy†

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Additional Ingredients in Dust Reloaded:

Nitrosigine:

Nitrosigine is an inositol-stabilized arginine silicate. Research suggests that it may promote the production of arginine, silicon, and nitric oxide. This can help improve endurance and promote better recovery. Interestingly, research on Nitrosigine also dives into cognitive function. Studies indicate that it may aid in enhancing the ability to perform complex cognitive tests that require mental flexibility, processing speed, and executive functioning. (7)

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Taurine:

Our next ingredient, Taurine, is dosed at 2.5g, which is more than typically included in pre-workouts (clinical dose range: .5-2 grams). L-Taurine is another amino acid, like citrulline, except it is a conditionally essential amino acid. This means your body can produce this amino acid, but there are times you may need to supplement it. Taurine plays a role in various bodily functions, including maintaining hydration, supporting central nervous system (CNS) functions, and may even aid in regulating the immune system. (8)

For the gym, Taurine may aid in protecting muscles from cell damage and oxidative stress while also removing waste products that lead to muscle fatigue. (9)

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DiCaffeine Malate: 

DiCaffeine Malate is a buffered version of caffeine that has an extended half-life. The benefit of DiCaffeine Malate is that the energy may be there longer, and there is less of a “crash” when the stimulant wears off.†

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 Betaine Anhydrous:

Betaine Anhydrous is similar to Citrulline in that it can help promote better pumps and endurance. It’s a naturally occurring amino acid coming from Beet Extract. This ingredient offers a range of benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and improvements in body composition and muscular performance. The ergogenic and clinical effects of betaine are often studied with doses ranging from 500 to 20,000 mg/day. But dosages of 2.5 g/day for at least 14 days to 6 weeks have shown potential to enhance strength-based performance. (10,11)

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L-Norvaline:

L-norvaline is a form of the amino acid L-valine, which may aid in improving circulation and nitric oxide levels. This increase in circulation may assist with the pump and endurance-boosting effects of Dust Reloaded. (12)

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Yohimbine HCL:

Yohimbine is an excellent thermogenic. There are a couple of ways yohimbine functions. The primary method is by blocking alpha-2 adrenergic receptors located in fat cells. Once Yohimbine has bound to a fat cell, it “turns off” the alpha receptor, allowing the fat cells to mobilize and burn off. But Yohimbine is also a mild stimulant. For a pre-workout, you’ll get the benefits of a stimulant, and this ingredient may help you sweat more. (13)

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Stearoyl Vanillylamide:

Stearoyl Vanillylamide is an analog of Capsaicin, a compound in various species of hot peppers that is primarily responsible for spiciness. Like Capsaicin, Stearoyl Vanillylamide can help boost your metabolism and suppress your appetite while also providing some thermogenic effects.†

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How To Take Dust Reloaded:

Blackstone Labs recommends mixing one (1) scoop in 8-10 oz. of water 30 minutes before workout on training days or first thing in the morning on non-training days. Due to extreme potency, new users may wish to assess tolerance with one-half (1/2) scoop.

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Dust Reloaded Review By Dragon:  “Ohhh maii gahd!! Best Preworkout I’ve had in so long! I love dust v2 but this is a big step up from that and so much more intense! The energy, the mental focus and clarity the part where you think you’re starting to die out on your workout session but then something kicks in and you have all the energy back! There’s a slight euphoric feeling I think is cuz I took a full scoop and Im petite (it’s strong but so good!)I definitely recommend it!”

Dust X VS BZRK:

Shared Ingredients:

• L-Citrulline Malate
• Beta-Alanine (BetaO)
• L-Tyrosine 
• Caffeine
• Higenamine
• Huperzine A

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Additional Ingredients in BZRK:

GlycerPump™:

GlycerPump or Glycerol Powder is a popular ingredient in pre-workouts, both stimulant and non-stimulant, due to its effect on both aerobic and anaerobic exercise performance. Glycerol has several performance-enhancing qualities. For starters, it can serve as an energy substrate, contributing to the energy yield during exercise. Next, it has osmoprotective properties. This can help delay muscular fatigue. Lastly, when consumed with sufficient water, glycerol can play a role in maintaining hydration and regulating body temperature. (14) Generally, a dose between 2 and 5 grams is efficient for this ingredient.

However, this ingredient does come with an annoying consequence of being a hyperhydrating agent. Glycerol tends to increase the moisture drawn into powdered supplements. This means that if not stored correctly, these products tend to have more clumps or get hardened. While the clumping is generally easy to break apart and won’t affect the product’s performance, it can be annoying. We recommend that products with high contents of glycerol and other hydrating/pumping ingredients (e.g., creatine, citrulline, betaine, etc.) be stored in the refrigerator or another cool, dry area to reduce the risk of clumping.†

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N-Isopropylnorsynephrine:

N-Isopropylnorsynephrine is another intense stimulant in this pre-workout. It’s also known as Octopamine and is an alkaloid found alongside Synephrine in Citrus Aurantium. Aside from boosting energy, octopamine may aid in promoting fat burning by inhibiting the uptake of glucose in fat cells (adipocytes) by blocking the beta-3 adrenoceptor. (15)

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Kola Nut Extract:

Kola Nut Extract is a natural central nervous system stimulant, which is often standardized for Caffeine. This stimulant may increase alertness and boost energy levels.†

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N-Methyl Tyramine:

Next, we have N-methyl tyramine HCl, also known as NMT, which is the opposite of a fat-burning ingredient. Research shows NMT can stimulate appetite and the absorption of fats and carbohydrates but inhibit the breakdown of fats into energy. So, it may contribute to weight gain rather than weight loss. But, the increase in nutrient absorption may boost the perception of wakefulness. (16)

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Coffee Arabica Extract:

This extract contains chlorogenic acids and caffeine, which may aid in weight loss (17). However, the energy may have a more natural, energizing feel rather than the boost you get from a cup of coffee.†

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How To Take BZRK:

The manufacturers recommend mixing one (1) scoop with 6-8oz of water and consuming 15-20 minutes prior to training. To avoid sleeplessness, do not use within 6 hours prior to sleep.

Do not consume more than one scoop in any 24-hour period. NOTE: New users may wish to assess tolerance with 1/2 scoop.

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BZRK Review By Shane: “This is by far the strongest pre workout I have had. Plus the pumps and focus are great too.”

Dust X vs Mesomorph

Mesomorph is often compared to Dust X due to its legendary high-stim blend and inclusion of DMHA, but its approach is more rounded for performance + energy.†

Shared Ingredients:

• 2-Aminoisoheptane (DMHA)
• Beta-Alanine
• Citrulline Malate
• Agmatine (Pump support)
• Caffeine

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Additional Ingredients in Mesomorph:

Synthenox™ – Carnosine / Nitric Oxide Complex:

• Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AAKG): Converts to nitric oxide to help improve blood flow, nutrient delivery, and pump. (18)

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Mesoswell™ – Cell Volumizing ATP Matrix: (19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26)

• Di-Creatine Malate: A compound combining creatine and malic acid, used to improve ATP regeneration for muscle power.†
• Creatine Nitrate: Supports increased strength and endurance by increasing intracellular water and ATP availability.†
• Creatinol-O-Phosphate: May help with strength and recovery by buffering acid buildup in muscles.†
• Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): Offers antioxidant protection and supports blood flow by preserving nitric oxide.†
• L-Taurine: Plays roles in hydration, muscle contraction, and protecting muscles from damage.†

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Neuromorph™ – Neuro-Energized Stimulant Matrix:(27,28,29)

• Glucuronolactone: Supports cognitive energy and may reduce exercise-induced fatigue.†
• Geranium Extract: Often associated with DMAA in the past, the modern form of Geranium Extract does not contain DMAA alkaloids. While it may still contribute mild stimulant effects, it is DMAA-free and compliant with current supplement regulations.†
• Theobromine: A mild stimulant and vasodilator that supports mood and smooth energy.†
• Naringin (fruit): A bioflavonoid that may enhance absorption and prolong stimulant effects.†
• Quebracho Blanco Extract (bark): Thought to support blood flow and energy, though human data is limited.†

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How To Take Mesomorph:

The manufacturer recommends mixing one (1) scoop with 8–10 oz of water about 30 minutes before training. Start with half (½) scoop to assess tolerance, especially due to the high stimulant load. Avoid taking it within 6 hours of bedtime.

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Mesomorph Review By Anthony: “Best pre-workout I have tried thus far, highly recommend!”

Dust X vs Jack3D

Shared Ingredients:

• 2-Aminoisoheptane (DMHA)
• Beta-Alanine
• Citrulline Malate
• Agmatine (Pump support)
• Caffeine

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Additional Ingredients in Jack3D:

• Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AAKG): Enhances nitric oxide levels and promotes muscle pumps, although newer studies suggest citrulline may be more effective. (18)
• Creatine Monohydrate: A staple for strength and power, creatine helps replenish ATP stores and support performance. (21)
• Yohimbe Extract (Standardized for Yohimbine Alkaloids): Adds thermogenic support and stimulation by increasing adrenaline levels and fat mobilization. (30,31)
• Geranium Extract: Originally the source of DMAA in “OG” Jack3d, modern Geranium extracts have had those alkaloids removed. While it may offer mild mood elevation or focus benefits, its stimulant properties are far weaker and less studied than purified DMAA or DMHA.† 
• Schisandra Chinensis (Standardized for Schizandrol A): May reduce fatigue, increase focus, and offer mood-stabilizing benefits through adaptogenic properties. (32,33)

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How To Take Jack3D:

The manufacturer recommends mixing 1-3 scoops with 6-12 ounces of cold water and consuming one serving daily. On exercise days, consume 30-60 minutes before resistance training.

Contents may settle. Shake the container before each use. Store in a cool, dry place to prevent clumping and discoloration. Do not exceed three scoops per day.

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Jack3D Review By Jeff: “This stuff is the real deal. Incredible energy and focus. My workouts start around 4 or 4:30am. I take a scoop or a little more and within 20 mins or so I’m ready to do and I’ll go for 2 hours or more. Im also 48, so not the youngest of the bunch lol This stuff is great. Crazy focus.”

Where to Buy Dust X Pre‑Workout

Looking to power up with Dust X? You can order it directly from SameDaySupplements.com, where it’s in stock and ready to ship fast:

🚚 Ships same day (M–F before 3 PM EST)
✅ Trusted U.S. retailer with verified customer reviews
💥 Bundle deals available

Whether you’re chasing intense energy, tunnel-focus, or skin-splitting pumps, Dust X has you covered—locked and loaded.†

Wrapping Up!

Warnings And Side Effects:

Keep out of reach of children. This product should not be taken by individuals under 18 years of age. Consult a licensed health professional before taking this product. This product is not intended as a sole source of nutrition. It should be taken along with a physical training or exercise program. You should not use inhibitors, alcohol, or medications.

Do not take this product if you have any current or pre-existing medical conditions or if you are pregnant or nursing. Do not exceed the recommended serving, as it will not improve results and could result in serious adverse health effects. In case of an accidental overdose, contact a poison control center immediately.

Consult a doctor if you experience:

• An unusually rapid heartbeat
• Dizziness
• Severe headache
• Shortness of breath

This product may contain ingredients that are banned by some sports organizations and/or increase the risk of false positives on a drug test. Please consult with your sports organization or physician before taking this product.

Disclaimer: