Understanding Your Testosterone Testing Options
We offer testosterone testing through multiple lab partners, each with different test options, pricing, and methods. This guide will help you understand what's available and choose the right test for your needs.
What's the Difference Between Testosterone Tests?
Testosterone testing isn't one-size-fits-all. Here's what the different measurements mean:
Total Testosterone — The total amount of testosterone in your blood, including both bound and unbound forms. This is the basic measurement included in all tests.
Free Testosterone — The "active" testosterone available for your body to use (only 2-3% of total). This can be measured directly or calculated from other values.
Bioavailable Testosterone — Free testosterone plus testosterone loosely bound to albumin. Considered a better indicator of usable testosterone than free T alone.
SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin) — A protein that binds to testosterone. Higher SHBG means less free testosterone available.
Albumin — A protein that loosely binds testosterone. Used to calculate bioavailable testosterone.
Testing Options by Lab
LabCorp
Test | Price | What's Included | Best For |
Profile I | $40 | Total T, Free T (calculated), SHBG, Albumin | Most people — best value |
Profile II | $70 | Total T, Free T (LC/MS), SHBG, Albumin | Women, children, or suspected hypogonadism (more sensitive method) |
Equilibrium | $80 | Total T, Free T (direct measurement), Free T % | When you need gold-standard accuracy for free T |
Quest Diagnostics
Test | Price | What's Included | Best For |
Total MS | $11 | Total T only | Budget option, basic screening |
Free & Total | $15 | Total T guaranteed, Free T optional | Not recommended (free T not guaranteed) |
Free, Bio & Total | $22 | Total T, SHBG, Albumin (calculate free T yourself) | If you want the raw components |
BioReference
Test | Price | What's Included | Best For |
LC/MS | $45 | Total T, Free T (calculated), SHBG | Good value, similar to LabCorp Profile I |
Which Test Should I Choose?
Choose LabCorp Profile I ($40) if:
You want a complete picture of your testosterone levels
You want guaranteed Free T results (not optional)
You want the best value for comprehensive testing
Choose Quest Total MS ($11) if:
You only need a basic Total T screening
Budget is your primary concern
You've had Free T tested recently and just need a Total T check
Choose LabCorp Profile II ($70) if:
You're a woman, child, or have suspected hypogonadism
You need more sensitive testing methods (LC/MS)
Standard testing methods haven't given clear results
Choose LabCorp Equilibrium ($80) if:
You need the most accurate Free T measurement possible
You're tracking Free T changes over time and need consistency
Your doctor specifically requested direct measurement
Testosterone Testing in Our Panels
Many of our comprehensive panels include testosterone testing. Here's what's included:
Quest Panels
Panel | Price | Testosterone Test Included |
Comprehensive Men's | $200 | Free, Bioavailable & Total T |
Comprehensive Women's | $200 | Free, Bioavailable & Total T |
Men's Hormone | $60 | Free, Bioavailable & Total T |
Women's Hormone | $60 | Free, Bioavailable & Total T |
Function Health Equivalent | $450 | Free, Bioavailable & Total T |
Body Builder | $280 | Free & Total T + DHT |
LabCorp Panels
Panel | Price | Testosterone Test Included |
Comprehensive Men's | $200 | Profile I (calculated) |
Comprehensive Women's | $200 | Profile II (LC/MS — more sensitive) |
Men's Hormone | $80 | Profile I (calculated) |
Women's Hormone | $120 | Profile II (LC/MS — more sensitive) |
BioReference Panels
Panel | Price | Testosterone Test Included |
Comprehensive Men's | $200 | LC/MS |
Comprehensive Women's | $200 | LC/MS |
Men's Hormone | $80 | LC/MS |
Women's Hormone | $80 | LC/MS |
Important: Reporting Limits for High Testosterone Levels
If you have high testosterone levels (for example, if you're on TRT), some tests will show the actual number while others will just say ">1500" or ">50" when results exceed certain thresholds.
If you want an Uncapped Testosterone test level, please purchase the LC/MS version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to fast before a testosterone test? No fasting is required for testosterone testing.
Does the time of day matter? Testosterone levels are typically highest in the morning. For the most accurate results, especially if tracking changes over time, try to test at a consistent time (ideally morning).
What's the difference between "calculated" and "direct" Free T?
Calculated: Free T is estimated using a formula based on your Total T, SHBG, and Albumin levels. This is accurate for most people.
Direct (Equilibrium Ultrafiltration): Free T is measured directly from your blood sample. This is the gold standard but costs more.
Why do women's panels use different tests? Women have much lower testosterone levels than men. The LC/MS method used in women's panels is more sensitive and accurate at detecting these lower levels.
Still Have Questions?
If you're unsure which test is right for you, reach out to our support team and we'll help you choose the best option for your needs.