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Types of Samples Collected At-Home
Blood tests and saliva tests are both used to measure testosterone levels, but they have some differences we think you should know about:
- Accuracy: Blood tests are considered to be more accurate in measuring testosterone levels compared to saliva tests, as they can measure both total and free testosterone levels in the blood (though not all tests report both measures). Saliva tests can only measure free testosterone.
- Convenience: Saliva tests are generally easier and more convenient compared to at-home finger prick blood tests. They leave out any need for needles, so, if you can’t stand the sight of blood, it might be the best option if you.
- Timing: Because testosterone levels fluctuate throughout the day, it’s recommended to take samples in the morning before you eat. It’s important to a test kit’s sample collection instructions for the most accurate result.
Best Overall
Everlywell Everlywell Testosterone Test
Best Overall
Everlywell Everlywell Testosterone Test
Everlywell has quickly become a well-known and trusted one stop shop for at-home health test kits, and their testosterone test kit is no exception. The test measures total testosterone levels in a blood sample from an easy finger prick.
The kit includes all necessary materials and instructions for collecting and shipping the sample. Analysis is pretty quick, and all results are reviewed and approved by an independent board-certified physician within your state before being uploaded a secure online portal for you to access any time.
| Sample type | Blood |
|---|---|
| Tests for | Total testosterone |
| Results in | 5-7 days |
Best Saliva Test
myLAB Box myLAB Box At-Home Testosterone Test Kit
Best Saliva Test
myLAB Box myLAB Box At-Home Testosterone Test Kit
Cons
- Does not test for total testosterone
- Not available in New York
- Saliva samples are not as consistent as blood samples
Looking for fast results? Try myLAB Box’s kit, which offers results in just 2 to 5 days, the quickest of all the tests in this list. And because it’s a saliva test, you won’t have to deal with finger pricking. Customers love its easy-to-follow sample collection guide, and your results can be accessed on online as soon as they’re ready.
| Sample type | Saliva |
|---|---|
| Tests for | Free testosterone |
| Results in | 2-5 days |
Best Comprehensive Test
Lets Get Checked Male Hormone Advanced: Home Test Kit
Best Comprehensive Test
Lets Get Checked Male Hormone Advanced: Home Test Kit
For guys who want a more comprehensive snapshot of their hormone health, this one is for you. Let’s Get Checked’s test will analyze your blood sample to determine testosterone levels in addition to other biomarkers that be impacting your overall health. Unlike the other kits we’ve included (although it may ensure more accurate results) the instructions for this test dictate the sample cannot be taken on Saturdays or Sundays, or within 24 hours of sexual activity or vigorous exercise.
| Sample type | Saliva and blood |
|---|---|
| Tests for | Testosterone, Free Androgen Index (FAI), Prolactin, Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG), Estradiol and Cortisol |
| Results in | 2-5 days |
How Do At-Home Test Kits Compare to Lab Tests?
If you’re simply curious to know more about your testosterone levels in a quick and affordable way, at-home tests are a great first step to get you the info you’re looking for. “If someone is well into the upper end of the normal range, they don’t need to worry. If your results come back abnormal, an at-home test is not sufficient alone,” according to Sandeep Dhindsa, MD, an endocrinologist on the MH Advisory Panel.
If you’re experiencing severe health symptoms or are monitoring a pre-existing diagnosed health condition which may impact your T levels, lab tests conducted at a healthcare provider’s office may be a better choice for your long-term health compared to an at-home test.
How We Evaluated
Talene Appleton is a commerce writer specializing in lifestyle, fitness, health, and wellness. For this story, she researched dozens of popular at-home testosterone test kits from reputable brands to identify the most user friendly, research-backed, and top-rated options on the market.
Fitness and Commerce Editor
Talene Appleton is the Fitness and Commerce Editor at Men’s Health, where she covers fitness, nutrition, health, and wellness. She was previously the Associate Editor of General Surgery News, and a nutrition writer for The Food Institute. Talene is a retired professional dancer, and loves to spend her free time cooking elaborate meals for her friends and family.
Marty Munson, currently the health director of Men’s Health, has been a health editor at properties including Marie Claire, Prevention, Shape and RealAge. She’s also certified as a swim and triathlon coach.
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