Choosing the right cologne is a personal journey that can boost confidence and leave a lasting impression. In 2024, there is a wide range of men’s fragrances to choose from, catering to different preferences. Whether you like deep and warm scents for the winter or light and fresh ones for daily wear, there’s something for everyone. Established brands have refined their formulas, and new contenders have emerged with innovative blends.
Understanding fragrance notes and their lasting effects on the skin is important. Colognes with a strong vanilla essence are popular for their rich and comforting aroma, while classic scents remain a favorite for those seeking a familiar yet sophisticated fragrance. This article aims to simplify the process of choosing the best colognes for men in 2024.
Different Cologne types come in many scents and styles, and choosing the right one will leave a lasting impression. We’ve looked at many colognes to find the best options. We tested how long they last and how strong they smell. We also checked if they cause skin reactions. Price was another factor we considered.When picking a cologne, think about your personal taste. Some men like fresh scents while others prefer woody or spicy ones. The time of day you’ll wear it matters too. Light scents work well for daytime. Stronger ones are better for night. We spent hours testing different colognes to find ones that smell great and last all day.
Top Cologne For Men: Ranked (2024)
| Rank | Cologne | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nautica Voyage | Fresh and clean smell; Works for many occasions; Good value for money | Might not last all day; Scent may be too light for some; Bottle design is basic |
| 2 | Versace The Dreamer | Long-lasting fragrance; Unique scent profile; Good value for money | May be too strong for some; Not an everyday scent; Packaging may vary |
| 3 | Drakkar Noir by Guy Laroche | Long-lasting fragrance; Unique blend of citrus and spice; Versatile for day or night wear | Strong scent may be too much for some; Vintage smell might feel dated; Bottle design is plain |
| 4 | Polo Black by Ralph Lauren | Fresh, pleasant smell; Long-lasting fragrance; Good value for the price | Scent may be too strong for some; Bottle design could be improved; Limited seasonal versatility |
| 5 | FILA Men’s Eau de Toilette | Fresh, clean smell; Affordable; Travel-friendly bottle | Scent doesn’t last long; Strong at first; Basic packaging |
| 6 | FILA Black for Men | Long-lasting fragrance; Versatile for day and night; Good value for money | Scent may be too strong for some; Bottle design is basic; Limited scent complexity |
| 7 | Stetson Original Splash | Long-lasting woody aroma; Travel-friendly bottle; Good value for money | Scent may be too strong for some; Packaging can vary from images; Limited availability in stores |
| 8 | C.O. Bigelow Elixir Black | Strong, manly smell; Stays on all day; Nice gift packaging | A bit pricey; Scent may be too strong for some; Limited availability in stores |
| 9 | Versace Eros | Strong smell that stays all day; Fits many events; Nice bottle design | Might be too strong for some; Pricey; Not for guys who like light scents |
| 10 | Afnan 9 PM Spray | Strong, lasting scent; Good value for money; Versatile for many occasions | May be too sweet for some; Not ideal for daytime use; Packaging could be nicer |
Best Of Category Winners
Here’s a table showing the best colognes for 2024 by category:
| Category | Cologne | Justification |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Versace Eros | Combines a long-lasting, bold scent with versatility for various occasions and an attractive bottle design. |
| Most Popular | Drakkar Noir by Guy Laroche | A classic and timeless fragrance that has remained a popular choice for decades. |
| Best Affordable | FILA Men’s Eau de Toilette | Offers a fresh, clean, and sporty scent at a budget-friendly price. |
| Best Designer | Versace The Dreamer | A unique and sophisticated fragrance from a renowned fashion house. |
| Best Splurge | C.O. Bigelow Elixir Black | A high-quality, long-lasting cologne with a luxurious scent profile and elegant packaging, justifying its higher price point. |
| Most Long-Lasting | Afnan 9 PM Spray | Boasts impressive longevity, with its scent lingering even into the next morning. |
| Most Seductive | Versace Eros | Its bold, alluring blend of mint, apple, and vanilla creates a captivating and confident aura. |
| Best Everyday Cologne | Nautica Voyage | A versatile and inoffensive fragrance suitable for daily wear, offering a fresh and clean scent. |
| Best Winter Cologne | Afnan 9 PM Spray | Its warm and sweet notes of vanilla and amber make it a perfect fit for the colder months. |
| Best Value for Money | Drakkar Noir by Guy Laroche | Offers a long-lasting and versatile fragrance at an affordable price, providing excellent value. |
Best Colognes
We’ve put together a list of the top colognes for men. These scents smell great and last long. Our picks come in different styles to match any taste or event.
Nautica Voyage
We think Nautica Voyage is a great buy for men who want a fresh, versatile scent at a good price.
Pros
- Fresh and clean smell
- Works for many occasions
- Good value for money
Cons
- Might not last all day
- Scent may be too light for some
- Bottle design is basic
Nautica Voyage has a nice, crisp scent that reminds us of the ocean. We like how it starts with notes of apple and water lotus. These give it a clean, fresh smell. As it dries down, we notice woody notes like cedarwood and musk. This mix makes it smell manly without being too strong.
We find this cologne works well for lots of different events. It’s light enough for the office but also nice for dates or casual outings. The scent isn’t too bold, so it won’t overpower a room. This makes it a safe choice for guys who don’t want anything too fancy.
One thing to note is that Nautica Voyage doesn’t last as long as some pricier colognes. We usually need to reapply it after 4-6 hours. But given its low cost, we don’t mind touching up during the day. For the price, we think it’s a solid pick for guys who want to smell good without spending a lot.
Versace The Dreamer
We think The Dreamer by Versace is a great choice for men who want a unique and long-lasting scent.
Pros
- Long-lasting fragrance
- Unique scent profile
- Good value for money
Cons
- May be too strong for some
- Not an everyday scent
- Packaging may vary
The Dreamer by Versace is a bold and distinct cologne. We tried it out and were struck by its strong first impression. The scent is a mix of floral and woody notes that linger for hours.
We found that a little goes a long way with this fragrance. Just a few sprays in the morning lasted well into the evening. This makes the 3.4 oz bottle a good value, as it should last quite a while.
The scent isn’t for everyone. Some may find it too strong or complex for daily wear. But for special nights out or formal events, we think it’s a great pick. The unique smell sets it apart from more common colognes.
Drakkar Noir by Guy Laroche
This classic cologne remains a top choice for men seeking a bold, lasting scent.
Pros
- Long-lasting fragrance
- Unique blend of citrus and spice
- Versatile for day or night wear
Cons
- Strong scent may be too much for some
- Vintage smell might feel dated
- Bottle design is plain
We tried out the Drakkar Noir cologne and were impressed by its staying power. The scent lasted all day without fading. It’s a great option for guys who want to smell good from morning to night.
The mix of scents in Drakkar Noir is quite nice. We picked up on the citrus notes right away. Then the spicy middle tones came through. The pine and patchouli base notes round it out well. It’s a complex smell that isn’t boring.
This cologne works for many events. We found it good for the office and for nights out. The scent is strong, so a little goes a long way. Some people might find it too powerful. But if you like bolder smells, you’ll enjoy Drakkar Noir.
Drakkar Noir by Guy Laroche has been around since the 1980s. While some think it smells dated, others love its classic vibe. The black bottle looks simple, which may or may not appeal to you. Overall, it’s a solid choice for men who want a tried-and-true scent that lasts.
Polo Black by Ralph Lauren
We think this cologne is a great choice for men who want a fresh, woody scent.
Pros
- Fresh, pleasant smell
- Long-lasting fragrance
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Scent may be too strong for some
- Bottle design could be improved
- Limited seasonal versatility
We love the fresh and woody scent of Polo Black. It has a mix of patchouli, sandalwood, and mandarin that smells great. The fragrance lasts a long time. We put it on in the morning and could still smell it at the end of the day.
The 4.2 fl oz bottle is a good size. It should last for several months with regular use. We think it’s a good value for the price. Many people have told us they like how we smell when we wear it.
We found the scent to be medium intensity. It’s not too light or too strong. But some people might find it a bit much. It works well for everyday wear and special events. We’re not sure it’s the best choice for very hot weather though.
FILA Men’s Eau de Toilette
We recommend this cologne for guys who want a sporty scent at a good price.
Pros
- Fresh, clean smell
- Affordable
- Travel-friendly bottle
Cons
- Scent doesn’t last long
- Strong at first
- Basic packaging
FILA’s cologne brings a sporty vibe to your daily routine. We like its crisp, clean scent that works well after a workout or for casual outings. The mix of bergamot, cardamom, and pepper gives it a nice kick.
The rectangular bottle fits easily in a gym bag. This makes it great for a quick spritz after hitting the weights. But don’t expect the smell to stick around all day. You might need to reapply if you’re going out after work.
For the price, it’s a solid choice. We think it’s best for guys who want a simple, fresh scent without breaking the bank. Just keep in mind you get what you pay for – it’s not as long-lasting as pricier options. Still, it’s a good pick for everyday wear or as a backup cologne.
FILA Black for Men
FILA Black is a solid pick for guys who want a fresh scent that lasts all day.
Pros
- Long-lasting fragrance
- Versatile for day and night
- Good value for money
Cons
- Scent may be too strong for some
- Bottle design is basic
- Limited scent complexity
We tried out FILA Black and were happy with how long it stayed on. The smell is nice and clean. It works well for the gym or a night out.
The scent starts off fruity and fresh. Then it turns spicier with hints of cinnamon and cardamom. At the end, you get woody notes like cedar. It’s a mix that most guys will like.
We found the bottle easy to use and carry around. It’s not fancy, but it does the job. The spray gives out just the right amount. For the price, we think it’s a good deal. You get a big 3.4 oz bottle that should last a while.
Stetson Original Splash
We think Stetson Original Aftershave is a great buy for men who want a classic, masculine scent at a good price.
Pros
- Long-lasting woody aroma
- Travel-friendly bottle
- Good value for money
Cons
- Scent may be too strong for some
- Packaging can vary from images
- Limited availability in stores
Stetson Original Aftershave has been a go-to for many men over the years. We found its earthy and woody smell to be quite nice. The scent starts with hints of sage and citrus. Then it moves to cedar and patchouli. It ends with warm notes of musk, honey, and vanilla.
We like how the 3.5-ounce bottle fits easily in a bag or suitcase. This makes it great for trips or gym bags. The splash-on format is easy to use. Just a small amount goes a long way. We noticed the smell lasted most of the day without being too strong.
For the price, we think Stetson Original offers good value. It’s a simple yet effective product that does its job well. The classic smell works for many events. Whether you’re going to work or out with friends, this aftershave fits the bill. While some may find the scent old-fashioned, we think it has stood the test of time for good reason.
C.O. Bigelow Elixir Black
We think this cologne is a great buy for men who want a long-lasting, classy scent.
Pros
- Strong, manly smell
- Stays on all day
- Nice gift packaging
Cons
- A bit pricey
- Scent may be too strong for some
- Limited availability in stores
We tried out C.O. Bigelow’s Elixir Black cologne and were impressed. The smell is very manly. It has notes of bourbon, black pepper, and sandalwood. There’s also a hint of vanilla and musk. The mix makes for a rich, grown-up scent.
This cologne lasts a long time. We put it on in the morning and could still smell it at night. A little goes a long way. The glass bottle looks fancy too. It comes in a nice box, so it makes a good gift.
The price is on the high side. But we think it’s worth it for the quality. Some people might find the smell too strong. It’s best for guys who like bold scents. You may have trouble finding it in stores. But you can easily buy it online. All in all, we’d say this is a solid choice for men who want to smell good all day.
Versace Eros
We think Versace Eros is a great cologne for men who want a bold scent that lasts.
Pros
- Strong smell that stays all day
- Fits many events
- Nice bottle design
Cons
- Might be too strong for some
- Pricey
- Not for guys who like light scents
We tried Versace Eros and were blown away by its power. This cologne packs a punch. It’s got a mix of mint, apple, and vanilla that smells fresh and manly.
The scent lasts for hours. We put it on in the morning and could still smell it at night. It works great for dates, parties, or nights out. But it might be too much for the office.
The bottle looks cool on a dresser. It’s blue with gold trim and has the Versace logo. It sprays well and doesn’t waste cologne.
Eros is not cheap. But a little goes a long way. We think it’s worth the cost if you want a cologne that stands out. Just be careful not to use too much. One or two sprays is plenty.
Afnan 9 PM Spray
We think this cologne is a great buy for men who want a long-lasting scent for evenings out.
Pros
- Strong, lasting scent
- Good value for money
- Versatile for many occasions
Cons
- May be too sweet for some
- Not ideal for daytime use
- Packaging could be nicer
We tried out the Afnan 9 PM cologne and were pleased with its performance. The scent is sweet and warm, with notes of vanilla and amber that really stand out. It’s perfect for date nights or going to clubs.
One thing we really liked was how long the smell lasted. We put it on in the evening and could still smell it the next morning. This makes it a good value, as you don’t need to use much.
The cologne works well for fall and winter. It might be a bit heavy for hot summer days. We found it got lots of compliments, which is always nice. The price is also good for the quality you get.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right cologne can be tricky. We’ll help you pick the best one for you. Here are some key things to look at:
Scent Notes
Colognes have different scent layers:
- Top notes: First smell you notice
- Middle notes: Main scent that lasts longer
- Base notes: Scent that stays the longest
Think about what smells you like best. Do you prefer fresh, woody, or spicy scents?
Concentration
This affects how strong the scent is and how long it lasts:
| Type | Oil % | Lasting Time |
|---|---|---|
| Eau de Cologne | 2-4% | 2-3 hours |
| Eau de Toilette | 5-15% | 3-5 hours |
| Eau de Parfum | 15-20% | 5-8 hours |
Occasion
Pick a scent that fits where you’ll wear it:
- Light, fresh scents for daytime or work
- Stronger, bolder scents for evening or special events
Season
Some scents work better in different weather:
- Spring/Summer: Light, fresh, citrusy
- Fall/Winter: Warm, spicy, woody
Skin Type
Your skin affects how a cologne smells on you. Try samples on your skin before buying.
Price
Set a budget. More expensive doesn’t always mean better. You can find good colognes at different price points.
Remember to test colognes before buying. What smells good on others might not work for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve gathered answers to common questions about men’s colognes. These cover top-rated options, choices for young adults, long-lasting fragrances, luxury picks, daily wear, and popular high-end scents.
What are the top-rated colognes for men currently?
Dior Sauvage and Bleu de Chanel are top-rated colognes for men. They smell great and last long. Many guys like these scents for work or dates.
Which cologne is best suited for young adults?
Versace Eros is a good pick for young adults. It’s fresh and lively. The scent works well for nights out or casual hangouts with friends.
What are the most enduring and long-lasting colognes for men?
Creed Aventus and Tom Ford Oud Wood are known to last all day. These colognes stay strong for hours. You won’t need to reapply them often.
What luxury colognes are considered the best for men?
Creed Green Irish Tweed and Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille are top luxury colognes. They use high-quality ingredients. These scents smell rich and unique.
Which men’s cologne has been rated the best for daily wear?
Acqua di Gio by Giorgio Armani is great for daily wear. It’s light and fresh. The scent works well in offices or casual settings.
What are the most popular high-end men’s fragrances of the year?
Maison Margiela Jazz Club and Yves Saint Laurent Y EDP are popular high-end fragrances. They offer complex scents that many people enjoy. These colognes work well for special events or nights out.
