i know what your saying that jack3d is like an energy drink and whey is like a protein shake but if you wanted more energy or feel fuller what would you choose, their both supplements not an axe or car, you get me?
I get you but they are all supplements for different purpose's. Creatine will help with your muscles stored energy (ATP) production and may aid buy giving you the ability to crank out a few more reps it also increases the water retention of your muscle and may aid in recovery.
wear as a jack3d will increase you energy via caffeine and give you a stimulating effect and may help you crank out a few more reps.
Protein how ever is just that protein and if you are not getting enough from natural sources then by all means supplement with whey or egg protein etc... I think ( personally ) that most pre work outs are garbage and can be made on your own from bulk ingredients this way you know what is in it and the amounts instead of relying on a "proprietary blend" Creatine ( Monohydrate ) i stand buy due to the amount of research done on the product, that i know how much im ingesting and that it works buy increasing ATP production.
so if i had to choose one it would be to get ride of pre workouts eat enough protein form natural sources and maybe ( its up to you ) supplement with creatine.