Top-Tier Testosterone Testing Kits of 2025
At-home testosterone tests are becoming increasingly popular, offering a convenient and non-invasive way to monitor hormone levels. However, it's essential to understand the pros and cons of these tests and choose the right one for your needs.
While saliva samples are pain-free and easy to collect, blood samples are still considered the gold standard for testosterone testing, especially in clinical settings. However, one at-home testosterone test using saliva samples, the Verisana Testosterone Test, has met the strict product selection and vetting process of Medical News Today.
Saliva tests offer a non-invasive collection method and measure free (bioavailable) testosterone levels, which may be more clinically relevant for some conditions. However, they are susceptible to contamination, single-time point measurements, and less reliable for patients on topical hormone therapies.
On the other hand, blood tests are considered the gold standard for hormone measurement in medical practice and can accurately measure total and free testosterone if ordered appropriately. Blood spot sampling, a form of at-home blood testing, offers a middle ground, enabling hormone monitoring at home with good accuracy.
The Everlywell At-Home Testosterone Test Kit is rated best overall for its fast turnaround times and affordable tests. The Everwell Testosterone Test is also highly rated for its easy-to-use kit and affordability, with the option for a subscription. The LetsGetChecked Testosterone Kit is best for follow-up care, as it offers 24-hour access to nurses. The myLab Box At-Home Testosterone Test Kit is best for FDA-registered and CDC-listed tests. The Quest Testosterone Test is best for at-home and in-person testing, as a phlebotomist comes to your home for the blood sample collection.
When choosing the right at-home testosterone test, consider factors such as price, collection method, scope of test, company reputation, support, testing speed, and turnaround time. It's important to remember that at-home test results should always be discussed with a doctor before making any health decisions.
It's also essential to note that sex and gender exist on spectrums, and the terms "male," "female," or both may refer to sex assigned at birth. Testosterone levels may change seasonally, with people having the highest levels in August to October and the lowest in March. Aging, obesity, and certain medications can cause low testosterone levels without being symptoms of a clinical condition.
Testosterone tests are used by healthcare professionals to diagnose low testosterone levels. If you have symptoms of low or high testosterone, contact a doctor for advice. Over-the-counter home testosterone tests are available without a prescription.
In summary, while saliva tests can be useful for convenient, non-invasive screening and assessing free hormone levels, blood tests remain the preferred method for precise clinical diagnostics and ongoing therapy monitoring. Choose the right at-home testosterone test for you by considering the factors mentioned above and always discuss your results with a doctor.
References:
- Saliva Testosterone: A Review of Methods, Clinical Applications, and Limitations
- Blood Testosterone: Clinical Applications and Limitations
- Circadian Rhythm of Salivary Testosterone: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
- Testosterone Replacement Therapy: An Overview
- Salivary Testosterone: A Comprehensive Review
| Test Name | Collection Method | Results Time | Price | Other Callouts | |---------------------|------------------|--------------|----------------|---------------| | Everlywell | Saliva | 2-5 days | Affordable | Subscription available | | LetsGetChecked | Saliva | Immediate | Moderate | 24-hour nurse access | | myLab Box | Blood | 2-5 days | Moderate | FDA-registered, CDC-listed | | Quest | Blood | 2-5 days | High | In-home or in-person testing | | Verisana | Saliva | 1 week | Moderate | Best saliva test |
- Low testosterone levels can cause various health issues in men, and science has made testosterone tests accessible through health-and-wellness companies, such as Everlywell, LetsGetChecked, myLab Box, Quest, and Verisana.
- These tests offer men a convenient way to monitor their health, with some preferring blood tests for accurate results, while saliva tests offer a pain-free and non-invasive alternative for measuring free testosterone levels.
- It's crucial for men to choose the right testosterone test based on factors like price, collection method, testing speed, turnaround time, and company reputation, and always consult their healthcare provider before making any health decisions based on at-home test results.
