Men’s Fashion

8 Best Smelling Jean Paul Gaultier Colognes

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Jean Paul Gaultier fragrances have enjoyed massive commercial success for both its men’s and women’s line. While now, Le Male is almost ubiquitous in its usage, when it was released in 1995 it became popular because of its great scent, even if now it trades based on its reputation.

For this list, I have selected eight scents from Jean Paul Gaultier which I feel represent a best of their men’s cologne collection.

I have updated this page to take off a lot of discontinued colognes and add a host of new ones to the mix.

Quick Overview

Ultra Male is the top nightlife pick from the list. It is sweet, powerful, spicy, and built around pear, cinnamon, vanilla, mint, amber, and lavender. It is not the best daily-wear option, but it works extremely well for colder nights out.

Le Beau Paradise Garden is the best warm-weather pick here. It takes the Le Beau coconut style and turns it into a lighter tropical scent with coconut water, fig, and a green freshness. It is best for spring, summer, and beachy casual wear.

Le Male Le Parfum is the best option if you want a more mature take on the Le Male DNA. It has cardamom, iris, lavender, vanilla, and warm spice, while still keeping enough of the familiar JPG style.

Fragrance Best For Season Key Notes Performance Sillage
Ultra Male Nightlife star Colder months Vanilla, cinnamon, pear, amber, mint, lavender Great longevity Bold
Le Male All-around classic autumn, spring Orange blossom, mint, lavender, vanilla, cinnamon, woods Decent Moderate
Scandal Le Parfum Sweet aromatic wear autumn, winter Geranium, tonka bean, woods, creamy notes Really good Strong
Le Male Elixir Absolu Captivating elixir Autumn, winter Lavender, plum, tonka bean Strong Massive
Gaultier 2 Bold cold-weather scent Cold weather Musk, amber, vanilla Strong Bold/heavy
Le Beau Paradise Garden Bright tropical wear Spring / Summer Coconut water, fig, green notes Good Moderate
Le Beau Le Parfum Tropical mass appeal spring, summer Pineapple, coconut, ginger, woods, amber 9-10 hours Good
Le Male Le Parfum Most versatile Le Male autumn, winter, spring Cardamom, iris, lavender, vanilla, spice Very good Good

Favorite Gaultier Fragrances for Men

The Nightlife Star

Jean Paul Gaultier Ultra Male Eau de Toilette Intense 40ml Spray– This is the best choice in my opinion and the Gaultier fragrance that I keep a full bottle of for myself.

Ultra Male was introduced as another flanker fragrance to the original Le Male (listed below) and has surpassed its predecessor in terms of quality, smell, and performance.

I will say, this won’t be the best option for those who are looking for a daily wear. This isn’t an office scent, is limited to colder climates, and skews to a younger audience.

It’s sweet, powerful, and spicy with notes of vanilla, cinnamon, pear, amber, mint, lavender, among others. Ultra Male has great longevity and a bold sillage, that works well for the nightlife during the colder months of the year.

Pear, cinnamon, and mint are really strong early in the wear. The pear and cinnamon give it a distinct vibe from Le Male.

It’s got a candy-like presence while maintaining a masculine vibe throughout. Read my full review: Ultra Male Review

All Around Classic

Le Male by Jean Paul Gaultier for Men – 4.2 Ounce EDT Spray– One of the most popular and widely used fragrances in the world. Le Male blends orange blossom, mint, lavender, and woods to create a fragrance that is sexy and wholly masculine.

The vanilla note is paired early on with the orange blossom, bergamot, cinnamon, mint, and lavender. The cinnamon and minty fresh spice aroma, is at its peak during this time.

The bergamot does give it a slight citrus note up top, to break things up a bit. Then, the cinnamon will begin to fade and it becomes a creamy/powdery kind of scent.

Things end with amber, vanilla, tonka bean, and woods enveloping the floral heart.

It’s been around for decades and is still going strong. This one is more vanilla and mint than Ultra Male and doesn’t have to same bold projection. However, Le Male is still a very nice option for an everyday scent, particularly for younger men. Le Male Full Review

le male jpg review

Something Else Scandalous 

Scandal Le Parfum by JPG– To give the list more representation outside of the other Le Male flankers and Le Beau, I’m going to update and change this one to Scandal Le Parfum.

I received a sample of this scent and I started to warm up to it more than Scandal EDT which I used to give an edge to. I sprayed it on clothing and kept getting whiffs of this scent throughout the day and it increased my opinion of it.

I have yet to try the Absolu version of Scandal, since I’d already bought three bottles of other fragrances from them in a short period of time. So, maybe that’s better?

Here, you get a nice use of geranium and tonka bean. It’s a greenish and sweet aromatic in the early stages. Quite attractive and you get a woodier and a creamier finish.

Performance here is really good, also. Strong with a far reaching projection and it sticks around for a long time.

A Captivating Elixir

Le Male Elixir Absolu- I am replacing the original Le Male Elixir on the list with the newer Elixir Absolu.

I wasn’t sure that this one would be anything different or worthwhile in comparison to Elixir. Also, Absolu kind of gets off to a slow start, as I still prefer the opening act of the original.

Here’s my YouTube video comparison.

However, that changes as it moves into the middle and latter stages of wear. Lavender, plum, and tonka bean highlight the mix and make it a much more pleasing and wearable fragrance versus the honeyed scent of Le Male Elixir.

Plus, the performance is the same for me.

If you already own Elixir, you don’t really need both. But, this is different enough to be distinct, while the changes they made are better. If I didn’t have a bottle of either, I’d go with Le Male Elixir Absolu.

The Bold JPG

Gaultier 2 By Jean Paul Gaultier For Men and Women. Eau De Parfum Spray 4 Ounces– Not as heralded as Le Male, however, Gaultier 2 is a winner. It brings together a triumvirate of notes including, musk, amber, and vanilla to create a sweet, warm, and memorable fragrance.

This is a unisex fragrance, that is also quite simple, and very appealing. Gaultier 2 is bold and heavy on the amber and vanilla, which generates a seductive cloud of inviting heat around the wearer.

It’s been discontinued, but you can still pick up a bottle on the secondary market. If you live in a warmer climate or if it’s summertime, this is one to avoid. However, it can be an absolute gem in the cold and crisp weather.

Note: The Dua Brand has their ‘inspired by’ version, called: Error 405.

Le Beau Favorite

Le Beau Paradise Garden– I bought a bottle of this and the newer flanker, Flower Edition, and Paradise Garden turns out to be my favorite scent of the Le Beau series.

It takes that well loved coconut note and makes it a coconut water that is paired with a sweet and greenish smelling fig note. It’s light and has a tropical air, really well built for the spring and summer months.

I get good performance for what this is. It’s a notch below Le Beau Le Parfum, in that department, but I think that how it smells makes up for it.

Might not be for everyone, especially if you don’t want a bright, beachy, and tropical fragrance. But, this is one that will get some use when it gets hot out. Paradise Garden Review

The Other Le Beau

Le Beau Le Parfum– I actually think that I personally prefer Le Beau Flower Edition to this one. But, I think that has less appeal for a general audience and may only be a special edition release.

Le Beau Le Parfum is a bit better than the EDT, has the best performance of the line, and has a greater mass appeal.

Pineapple, coconut, and ginger start things off. This has a freshness on top of that sweet and tropical fruit aroma. It will end up with a woodier and amber finish. More substantial than the original Le Beau.

I get 9-10 hours of wear out of this one. Again, it’s not my own most liked scent from Gaultier, but it deserves a spot on this list, as of now. Le Beau Le Parfum review

Most Versatile Le Male

Le Male Le Parfum– The most popular iteration of the Le Male series and it’s a really good one.

A nice amount of cardamom and soft powder from the iris note. Very nice with the appealing DNA of the original Le Male, especially coming from the lavender in the beginning.

I originally had a mini bottle and wasn’t impressed. Turned out to be a crummy batch. I received a travel sprayer of this and liked it more. Still not my personal favorite, but I get what people like about Le Parfum.

However, it also gives you hints of Ultra Male, without the same powerful sillage (though, performance is still very good). Very warm with spicy punches throughout and wrapped up in that familiar JPG vanilla note.

It’s a more mature fragrance than either of the others. Not super high-end and formal, but it does give a nice update to the classic formula.

Le Parfum is another solid entry from this line and I prefer it versus something like In the Navy, in comparison. This is one if you want something beyond Le Male, but not the same level as Ultra Male. Le Male Le Parfum Review

gaultier le male

FAQ: Best Jean Paul Gaultier Colognes

What is the best Jean Paul Gaultier cologne for men?

Ultra Male is my personal top pick. It has great longevity, bold sillage, and a sweet spicy profile that works especially well for nightlife and colder weather. Le Male Le Parfum is better as a daily wear, though.

Which Jean Paul Gaultier cologne lasts the longest?

Le Beau Le Parfum is one of the strongest performers on the list, with around 9-10 hours of wear. Ultra Male and Le Male Le Parfum also perform very well.

Which Jean Paul Gaultier cologne is best for summer?

Le Beau Paradise Garden is the best summer choice. It has a bright tropical style with coconut water, fig, and a green freshness.

Which Jean Paul Gaultier cologne is best for winter?

Ultra Male is one of the best winter picks. Gaultier 2 is also a strong cold-weather option because of its heavy amber, vanilla, and musk profile. But, you’d have to buy it from a secondary market. Le Male Elixir Absolu or Ultra Male, currently.

Is Le Male still worth buying?

Yes, Le Male is still worth buying if you want the classic JPG style. It has mint, lavender, vanilla, cinnamon, amber, tonka, and woods, though it is not as bold as Ultra Male. Le Male Le Parfum is better nowadays, however.

Is Ultra Male better than Le Male?

Ultra Male is better if you want stronger performance, more sweetness, and a better nightlife scent. Le Male is better if you want the classic, more everyday-friendly version. But, yes, I do consider it to be a better cologne.

Which Jean Paul Gaultier fragrance is most versatile?

Le Male Le Parfum is the most versatile Le Male option on the list. It is warm, spicy, slightly powdery, and more mature than Ultra Male.

Which Jean Paul Gaultier cologne has the best performance?

Ultra Male, Le Beau Le Parfum, Scandal Le Parfum, and Le Male Le Parfum are among the best performers on the list.

Armaf Club de Nuit Intense vs. Aventus

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Creed’s Aventus has been so mega-popular over the past decade, it has created its own sub-industry of fragrances trying to mimic or outright match its appealing formula.

The most popular of these fragrances is Armaf’s Club de Nuit Intense EDP. But, how do these two scents actually compare? Does Club smell better? Last longer?

Quick Overview

My Verdict

Creed Aventus is the better fragrance overall. It has better balance, higher quality, more depth, and slightly better longevity.

Club de Nuit Intense EDP is still a great alternative because it gives you much of the Aventus style for far less money.

If price is not a concern, Aventus wins. If value matters most, Club de Nuit Intense EDP makes a lot of sense. Here’s another inexpensive alternative from the Dua Brand that’s very similar: Poseidon’s Elixir

Category Armaf Club de Nuit Intense EDP Creed Aventus Winner
Opening Fruitier than Aventus, with more apple and less smokiness early on. The birch is less leathery until later in the wear. Pineapple, blackcurrant, citrus, birch, oak moss, apple, and vanilla. Better balanced and more engaging from the start. Creed Aventus
Projection Projects strongly and stays above average throughout the wear. Also projects strongly, with no major difference in reach compared with Club de Nuit Intense EDP. Tie
Longevity Lasts around 7-9 hours, though it tends to sit closer to the lower end of that range. Lasts around 7-10 hours, usually landing closer to 8-9 hours with better consistency. Creed Aventus
Versatility Works as an all-season fragrance, dressed up or casual, though it is better outside of extreme heat. Covers the same ground as Club de Nuit Intense EDP and works dressed up, casual, and across most seasons. Tie
Overall Scent A very good Aventus-style scent for the money, but it misses some of the depth, quality, and small details of the Creed. Better quality, greater depth, more balance, and slightly better performance. Still the better fragrance by smell. Creed Aventus

Tale of the Tape: Club de Nuit Intense vs. Aventus

Creed Aventus 

creed aventus

Notes of Creed Aventus: 

Top: Blackcurrant, Italian bergamot, French apples and pineapple

Middle: Rose, dry birch, Moroccan jasmine, and patchouli

Base Notes: musk, oak moss, ambergris, and vanilla.

Click here to read my original Aventus Review

Click here to get Aventus: Aventus by Creed

Club de Nuit EDP

Notes include: lemon, apple, blackcurrant, birch, jasmine, rose, vanilla, musk, ambergris, patchouli

Click here to try: Club de Nuit Men EDP

Opening

The sharp pineapple note, with the other citrus and woodsy elements of Aventus has never been something I enjoyed all that much.

That opening isn’t a favorite of mine, but Armaf is the same as well, so no luck in getting something different for me.

The pineapple, blackcurrant, and the dryness of birch can be a bit much at first. However, I do like what it settles into.

Fresh and lively, very enjoyable to wear. Next, you get less pineapple, and more of the birch wood and oak moss. This is where Aventus comes into its own. Plus, a little vanilla sweetness and the remaining apple note.

With Club EDP, I find it to be a smoother version of the EDT from Armaf. I get more of the apple note too, from this version.

The differences here are that Club has a fruitier start. Less smokiness and the birch wood doesn’t have the leathery facets, until later on in the wear. At least on my skin.

Which is better? While I don’t personally enjoy either’s opening act all that much. The Creed quality is higher and I do like the birch wood note better in the original.

Obviously, these two are going to be quite similar, but Aventus still has a nicer balance of its notes and a more engaging scent from the get go.

Edge: Aventus

Projection

Both of these fragrances start off with a good deal of strength and project quite well off of the skin. For the duration of the wear, they are both above average, in this regard.

I’m not sure that Aventus is actually any stronger than Club de Nuit Intense. There may be a slight difference here, but I’m not really getting it.

I’ve tested both of them on skin and have applied to clothing. Putting each fragrance onto a shirt and placing it on a chair, I can detect either of them from about the same distance, when I’ve done this.

No massive difference here.

Edge: Push

Longevity

Club will last for 7-9 hours, on my skin. The more I try it, the more it seems to settle closer to the bottom of that range. Still, very good.

Aventus is a 7-10 hour fragrance. Overlapping with the Armaf. However, I usually get 8-9 hours from the Creed version. It has a higher ceiling and more consistency.

Club de Nuit Intense EDP does give you plenty of wear for the money. That’s why it’s one of, if not the most popular of the Aventus-like colognes out there. Armaf didn’t dilute the idea with a bad performing scent, yet it still is a step behind.

Edge: Aventus

Versatility

There’s no distinction here. One’s mimicking the other, so they cover the same ground.

Mostly all-season fragrances that can be worn dressed up or even more casually. I’d avoid the hottest days of the year with either and both are better in the autumn and early spring, in my opinion.

Really great at being ‘jack of all trades’ sort of fragrances. But, this category is a tie.

Edge: Push

Overall Scent

Between these two, I do still think that Creed Aventus is the better fragrance overall. It has a greater depth and more little facets of different aromas than does Club. It’s the original, has higher quality, and slightly better performance.

However, if I were in the market for Aventus and didn’t want to spend $200-400+ (or whatever the latest pricing is), Club de Nuit Intense from Armaf would be an option, that I’d probably go with.

It gives you much of what you’d get from the Creed in terms of smell. Really, only some minor details are missing, but you save so much money.

If you’re going based on smell alone, I still like the Creed more. Is it that much better, to justify the price for most people?

No, for the vast majority of guys, the cheaper Armaf will do the job just fine. There’s a reason it has become so popular, even in a sea of other Aventus inspirations.

It’s a nice choice. Personally, I went with one of the Poseidon’s Elixir scents by Dua (there’s a ton of varients). It does a very close rendition of Aventus, even if I got the version with added berry notes. Dua is around the same price point at the Armaf, also.

Winner: Aventus

Who Should Buy Armaf Club de Nuit Intense EDP?

Buy Club de Nuit Intense EDP if you want an Aventus-style fragrance without paying Creed prices. It is fruity, smoky, woody, strong, and versatile. It works well for casual wear, dressed-up situations, spring, autumn, and most cooler or mild weather. It is the better value pick for most guys.

Who Should Buy Creed Aventus?

Buy Creed Aventus if you want the original and better-quality fragrance. It has better balance, more depth, a nicer birch note, and a more refined overall scent. It is the better choice if you care more about quality and scent detail than saving money.

FAQ: Armaf Club de Nuit Intense vs Creed Aventus

Is Club de Nuit Intense better than Aventus?

No. Creed Aventus is better overall, but Club de Nuit Intense EDP is much better from a value perspective.

Does Club de Nuit Intense smell like Aventus?

Yes, but not exactly the same. Club de Nuit Intense EDP is clearly inspired by Aventus and gives you a similar fruity, smoky, woody scent profile.

Which lasts longer, Club de Nuit Intense or Aventus?

Aventus lasts a little longer and is more consistent. Club de Nuit Intense EDP lasts around 7-9 hours, while Aventus can last around 7-10 hours.

Which projects better, Club de Nuit Intense or Aventus?

Projection is basically a tie. Both fragrances start strong and project above average during the wear.

Is Creed Aventus worth the higher price?

Aventus is worth it if you want the original, better balance, and higher quality. For most guys, Club de Nuit Intense EDP gives enough of the same style at a much lower price.

Which one smells more natural?

Creed Aventus smells more natural and refined. Club de Nuit Intense EDP is very good, but it does not have the same depth or quality.

Which one is better for compliments?

Both can get compliments. Club de Nuit Intense EDP may be the better value compliment-getter, while Aventus smells more polished and higher quality.

Which one is better for daily wear?

Both work well for daily wear. Club de Nuit Intense EDP is easier to justify as a daily scent because it costs much less.

Is Club de Nuit Intense EDP better than the EDT?

The EDP is generally smoother than the EDT and has more apple in the opening. It is the better option if you want a less harsh version of the Club de Nuit Intense style.

Should I buy Club de Nuit Intense or Aventus?

Buy Aventus if you want the best scent and do not mind the price. Buy Club de Nuit Intense EDP if you want a similar style for much less money.

Stronger With You vs. The One EDP

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Stronger With You from Emporio Armani and The One by D&G are two of the more popular fragrances out there for men. With a somewhat similar style, they can often be the final two options that people are choosing between. However, which one actually smells better? Lasts longer? Is the better buy, in comparison?

Quick Overview

My Verdict

Dolce & Gabbana The One EDP is the better-smelling fragrance. Stronger With You wins projection and longevity, but The One EDP has the better opening and overall scent.

The performance issues are real, but they can be overstated. If I had to pick one based on smell, I would choose The One EDP.

Here’s an alternative to SWY that is cheaper, if you wanted to just get both: Stronger with Dua

Category Emporio Armani Stronger With You Dolce & Gabbana The One EDP Winner
Opening Starts with cardamom, pink pepper, sage, and mint, with chestnut and vanilla underneath. It takes a while to reach its best stage. Opens with grapefruit, cardamom, basil, coriander, amber, and tobacco. It starts strong and stays appealing. The One EDP
Projection Projects better and leaves a longer-lasting scent trail. It stays noticeable after The One has quieted down. Creates a more intimate bubble and becomes softer faster than Stronger With You. Stronger With You
Longevity Lasts at least 9 hours and can reach around 11 hours. It is clearly the stronger performer. Usually lasts 4-5 hours with normal sprays, or 6-8 hours with heavier application. Stronger With You
Versatility Best for autumn, winter, cooler spring or summer nights, romantic wear, nightlife, casual use, and semi-formal settings. Also best for autumn, winter, cooler spring or summer nights, romantic wear, nightlife, casual use, and semi-formal settings. Tie
Overall Scent The dry down is nice when the chestnut and vanilla take over, but the opening is the weaker point. One of the best smelling popular men’s fragrances, with warm amber, tobacco, spice, grapefruit, and smooth sweetness. The One EDP

Tale of the Tape: Stronger With You vs. The One EDP

The One EDP

Notes include: grapefruit, basil, coriander, amber, tobacco, ginger, cardamom, orange blossom, and cedar

Click here to try: The One EDP

My Full Review The One EDP

the one edp review

Stronger With You

Notes include: vanilla, mint, cardamom, chestnut, amber, pink pepper, sage, violet leaf

Click here to try: Emporio Armani Stronger With You for Men Eau de Toilette Spray, 1.7 oz

My Full Review: Stronger With You

Opening

Stronger with You gives me a blast of cardamom up top, along with its other fresh and spicier notes. Pink pepper, sage, and mint. These are the leaders early on.

The undercurrent to this is the chestnut and vanilla notes, which really take over a bit later, but still have enough of a presence to make a noticeable impact at this point.

The One EDP will start off very much like the EDT version, but with some amped up notes. The grapefruit here plays a big role, along with the spice notes of: cardamom, basil, and coriander. All of which are soaking in a sea of warm amber.

The tobacco is also here, with its presence felt from the very start, and it will increase its role as we move along in the wear.

Which is better? To me, Stronger With You takes a while to really get going and into its best period. The opening is the weakest point, sort of jumbled.

Meanwhile, The One starts out great and continues pace. As such, it takes this category.

Edge: The One

Projection

Following the initial spray, these two actually aren’t far off from one another. Stronger With You does have the better ability to project, but it isn’t by much. The scent trail is longer lasting and it’ll project further off of the skin.

The duration of the sillage is where the real separation comes in. The One is already the weaker scent, at the peak of each fragrance. But, it quiets down much faster too. It’ll create an intimate bubble, while Stronger With You is still powerful.

Edge: Stronger

Longevity

Stronger With You also pretty easily takes this part of the contest, as well. It’ll last at least 9 hours and can go somewhere around 11 or thereabouts. It’s a very good performing scent on skin.

With The One EDP, normal sprays will get me about 4-5 hours of wear. With heavy sprays, I can go 6+ hours and up to about 8.

Heavy spraying is the name of the game with The One. But, doing so will get you fairly close to the Armani…Stronger still wins, however.

Edge: Stronger

Versatility

As far as when and how each should be worn, they’re basically the same.

Seasonally, autumn and winter, mainly. But, I will still wear them in spring and summer, if it isn’t too hot and humid. Though, it is mostly an indoor only option with air conditioning going.

You can wear them in a variety of situations, appropriate for a wide array of ages, but skew younger while not being something only teenagers can wear.

Romantic wear, nightlife, casual, and semi-formal.

Edge: Push

Overall Scent

So, overall, which one of these fragrances to I prefer?

I’m not a huge fan of Stronger With You EDT. The opening act, isn’t all that great, in my opinion. However, the dry down when the chestnut and vanilla get to shine is actually very nice.

In terms of performance, it is for sure at least a notch above The One. Has better sillage for longer and even when the are both in their lighter stages, Stronger just keeps going on.

But, in terms of smell and which one I actually own, it’s The One EDP. Any performance problems, while not being without some truth, are pretty overblown. I wear it often, no real issues on that front.

Frankly, The One is among the best smelling of the best sellers in the men’s fragrance space and the one I’m going with here.

Stronger With You Intensely  or Absolutely would have a better case here, but even then, I still like the Dolce fragrance more. That being said, if you’re leaning towards Stronger, I’d get Intensely (I prefer this one) or Absolutely before the EDT original.

Again, The Dua Brand has their own inexpensive take on this style of scent called: Stronger with Dua

Winner: The One

Who Should Buy Emporio Armani Stronger With You?

Buy Stronger With You if performance matters most. It projects better, lasts much longer, and has a nice chestnut and vanilla dry down. It is best for guys who want a sweet, warm, youthful fragrance for dates, nights out, autumn, winter, and cooler weather.

Who Should Buy Dolce & Gabbana The One EDP?

Buy The One EDP if you care more about scent quality than raw performance. It has a smoother and more attractive blend of grapefruit, amber, tobacco, cardamom, basil, coriander, and warm spice. It is best for romantic wear, nights out, casual use, semi-formal settings, and close encounters.

FAQ: The One or SWY

Does Stronger With You last longer than The One EDP?

Yes. Stronger With You can last at least 9 hours and sometimes around 11 hours. The One EDP usually lasts 4-5 hours with normal sprays, or 6-8 hours with heavier spraying.

Does Stronger With You project better than The One EDP?

Yes. Stronger With You projects better and leaves a longer-lasting scent trail. The One EDP is more intimate and becomes softer faster.

Which one smells better?

The One EDP smells better overall. Stronger With You has a nice dry down, but The One EDP has the better opening and more attractive scent profile.

Is The One EDP good for dates?

Yes. The One EDP is excellent for dates because it is warm, smooth, spicy, slightly sweet, and intimate. Its softer projection can actually work well in close settings.

Coach Platinum vs. Coach for Men Comparison

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For this latest entry, in our recurring head to head cologne comparisons, we have two entries from Coach New York: Platinum vs. Coach for Men.

Which of these scents is the better option? I have tested out both, reviewed them, and will now match them up in various categories before declaring a winner. Which lasts longer? Which has the better smell? Which is the better buy?

Quick Overview

My Verdict

Coach Platinum is the better fragrance overall. Coach for Men has the better fruity opening, but it becomes too linear and does not perform well enough.

Platinum is not a huge upgrade, but it lasts longer, holds its strength better, and has the more enjoyable dry down with vanilla, leather, and sandalwood.

Category Coach for Men Coach Platinum Winner
Opening Opens with pear, kumquat, citrus, amber, light spices, and a bit of suede. The fruity opening is the highlight. Starts with pineapple, sage, juniper berries, and black pepper, before more vanilla and leather come through. Coach for Men
Projection Projects around 3-5 feet with a few sprays, but fades sooner. Projects about the same at its peak, but maintains its strength longer. Coach Platinum
Longevity Lasts around 5 hours, which is pretty mediocre for the price. Lasts around 6-7 hours and keeps better reach deeper into the wear. Coach Platinum
Versatility Very easy to wear, casual, work-friendly, and better suited for heat. Also very versatile, casual, and work-friendly, but better suited for nightlife. Tie
Overall Scent Nice and fruity at first, but fairly linear and not very powerful after the opening. Slightly better overall, with a more enjoyable vanilla, leather, and sandalwood dry down. Coach Platinum

Tale of the Tape: Coach for Men vs. Platinum

Coach for Men

Notes include: bergamot, kumquat, ambergris, pear, vetiver, suede, coriander, cardamom, geranium

Click here to try: Coach New York Eau de Toilette Spray For Men, 3.3 Fl Oz

My full review: Coach for Men

Coach Platinum

Notes include: vanilla, sage, sandalwood, pineapple, leather, patchouli, black pepper, geranium, juniper berries

Click here to try: Coach New York Platinum Cologne for Men 3.3 fl.Oz Eau De Parfum Spray

My Review: Coach Platinum

Opening

Coach for Men opens with a blend of fruit notes: pear, kumquat, and other citrus ingredients. This top is surrounded by amber and some light spices.

The pear note leads the way, but the other fruit ingredients are quite nice, and there’s a bit of suede hanging out underneath.

Coach Platinum starts off with pineapple, sage, juniper berries, and black pepper. The pineapple is great at the start, but it goes rather quickly.

Then, really the juniper and spices, are in control with an ever increasing amount of vanilla with some leather.

Which smells better? Both start off nicely, though, I think I prefer the fruits in Coach for Men. The citrus in that fragrance, is just better than what I get up top, from Platinum.

Coach for Men really utilizes those fruity notes well and is the highlight of the wear.

Edge: Coach for Men

Projection

Both are about the same, in terms of sillage. I get projection from about 3-5 feet from both, with a few sprays.

However, Platinum seems to maintain its strength for a longer period of time. So, equal in terms of their maximum, but Platinum is more of a steady hand.

Edge: Platinum

Longevity

With Coach for Men, I only seem to be able to get 5 hours of wear, on my skin. My skin isn’t one to ‘eat’ fragrances, either. So, the performance, seems pretty mediocre.

Platinum will get me 6-7 hours, before it disappears completely. Plus, you still get the better reach, deeper into the wear.

Both of these aren’t that great, for the price that you’ll pay per bottle. Platinum, is at least somewhat passable.

Edge: Platinum

Versatility

Both are pretty versatile. Though, Coach for Men is better in the heat, in my opinion. Both can go casual, be something to wear to work, but Platinum is better suited for the nightlife versus Coach.

For everything else, these two are about the same. I don’t really see much of a clear edge here.

The strengths of these Coach colognes tend to be how mass appealing and easy to wear each of them is. Very pleasing, with a wide scope of opportunity to wear them.

Edge: Push

Overall Scent

Coach for Men is a nice smelling scent. I do like the opening bit of this fragrance, as the blend of fruits, is both juicy and enticing.

If it had some power and some more depth, I’d be higher on it. However, it is a pretty linear fragrance, and one that doesn’t perform well.

Pretty much after the opening, you only really get a bit of coriander and cardamom. The fragrance is nice enough, but it never wows me.

Coach Platinum doesn’t ‘wow’ me, either. However, I think that it is the better of the two. Neither of these scents, is particularly unique, but the smell of Platinum is slightly better overall.

It’s sort of like Luna Rossa Carbon, with added vanilla and leather notes. I do enjoy the dry down, when it’s all about vanilla, leather, and sandalwood. That’s probably the most enjoyable part of the wear.

Platinum also has better performance and strength versus Coach for Men. It’s not way ahead of Coach for Men, but, Platinum is the winner in my book.

Winner: Coach Platinum

Who Should Buy Coach for Men?

Buy Coach for Men if you want the fresher, fruitier, and easier warm-weather option. It is best if you like pear, citrus, amber, suede, coriander, and cardamom. It works well for casual wear, office use, daytime situations, and hotter weather.

Who Should Buy Coach Platinum?

Buy Coach Platinum if you want the better overall choice. It has stronger performance, better longevity, and a more interesting dry down. It is best if you like vanilla, leather, sandalwood, pineapple, sage, black pepper, and a slightly darker casual scent.

Coach for Men FAQ

Which one smells sweeter?

Coach Platinum smells sweeter as it develops because of the vanilla. It also has leather and sandalwood in the dry down.

Is Coach for Men good for summer?

Yes. Coach for Men is the better hot-weather option because it is lighter, fruitier, and fresher.

Is Coach Platinum good for nights out?

Yes. Coach Platinum is better suited for nightlife than Coach for Men because it has more depth, sweetness, leather, and strength.

Which one is better for work?

Both can work for the office. Coach for Men is the safer daytime option, while Coach Platinum works if sprayed lightly.

Which one is more versatile?

Versatility is about even. Coach for Men is better in heat, while Coach Platinum is better for nightlife.

Should I buy Coach Platinum or Coach for Men?

Buy Coach Platinum if you want the better overall fragrance. Buy Coach for Men if you prefer a fresher fruity scent or need something easier for warm weather.

Light Blue Eau Intense vs. Dylan Blue

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For this entry, I want to do a comparison post between two men’s colognes, with fairly aquatic compositions: Dylan Blue by Versace vs. Light Blue Eau Intense by D&G. Which of these two popular fragrances, smells better? Which has the better longevity and strength?

I have worn and reviewed each, over the past few years, and will now breakdown which one is the better buy.

Quick Overview

My Verdict

Light Blue Eau Intense is the better fragrance. Dylan Blue has the stronger projection, but Light Blue Eau Intense smells fresher, opens better, lasts longer, and is more enjoyable overall.

Dylan Blue is still a good citrus-aquatic fragrance, but the ambroxan, pepper, and violet leaf dry down is not as strong as its opening. Light Blue Eau Intense is colder, cleaner, and better for hot weather.

Category Versace Dylan Blue D&G Light Blue Eau Intense Winner
Opening Starts with bergamot, grapefruit, aquatic notes, ambroxan, and fig. The citrus aquatic opening is one of its best parts. Opens with frozen grapefruit, mandarin, juniper, and aquatic notes. It is colder, fresher, and more refreshing. Light Blue Eau Intense
Projection Starts stronger and reaches a higher projection level early in the wear. Can also be strong at first, but does not hit quite the same projection level as Dylan Blue. Dylan Blue
Longevity Lasts around 6-7 hours, which is decent and serviceable. Can last around 9 hours, giving it the clear advantage in staying power. Light Blue Eau Intense
Versatility Great for spring and summer, but can work year round. Useful for casual wear, dates, and dressed-up situations. Also great for spring and summer, but can work year round. Easy to wear casually, dressed up, or on dates. Tie
Overall Scent A good citrus aquatic scent, but the dry down leans more into ambroxan, pepper, and violet leaf. Fresher, colder, more aquatic, longer lasting, and better overall. The chilled fruit, aquatic accord, juniper, and woody base make it more enjoyable. Light Blue Eau Intense

Tale of the Tape

Dylan Blue

Notes include: black pepper, violet leaf, grapefruit, bergamot, tonka bean, ambrox, fig leaf

Click here to try: VERSACE Pour Homme Sealed Dylan Blue Eau de Toilette, 3.4 Ounce

Read my full review: Dylan Blue

Light Blue Eau Intense

Notes include: mandarin, frozen grapefruit, juniper, aquatic accord, amber woods, musk

Click here to try: Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Intense Eau de Parfum Spray for Men, 1.6 Ounce

My review: Light Blue Eau Intense

Opening

Bergamot and grapefruit are the top notes of Dylan Blue. These two notes sit on top of a somewhat aquatic accord, surrounded by ambroxan, and a fig note which gives it some distinction versus other fragrances in this style. The opening is one of my favorite parts of Dylan Blue.

Light Blue Eau Intense also opens up with grapefruit, but is instead joined by mandarin orange, and the grapefruit has a frozen coolness added. It doesn’t have that same peppery intensity as the original, but I instead get plenty of juinper, and the aquatic accord in the beginning.

Which is better? I really enjoy how both of them start off, but I would say that I like Eau Intense more than Dylan Blue. It is refreshing and aquatic and doesn’t bring about similar thoughts of Sauvage, like Dylan Blue can.

Edge: Eau Intense

Projection

The sillage of both can be strong at first, but I think Dylan Blue hits a higher level. An hour or two into the wear, both of these colognes move more into the moderate end of things.

Edge: Dylan Blue

Longevity

Dylan Blue lasts for 6-7 hours on my skin and I never get any more than that. It’s decent and serviceable. Light Blue Eau Intense will last or 9 hours, in my experiences with it.

Edge: Eau Intense

Versatility

Both are great in the spring/summer, but can work year round. Both can go casual, more dressed, up and out on a date, if need be. I don’t really see much of a distinction between these fragrances, here.

Edge: Push

Overall Scent

Dylan Blue grew to me having a higher esteem for the fragrance, the more I tested it out. I still don’t love it, but I do like the citrus aquatic opening, a whole lot.

The rest of the wear, becomes laden with ambroxan, pepper, and violet leaf. That part of it isn’t as good, but again, not terrible either. I never came around to thinking that the dry down, was more than decent.

Light Blue Eau Intense is better, in my opinion. The opening is even better than Dylan Blue’s which is the highlight of its life, and it also lasts longer.

It’s super fresh and the aquatic/fruit elements are chilled, which is really awesome on a hot day. Plus, the woody base with juniper floating around, only adds to its pleasant smell.

It’s a pretty close match up, but I’m going with the Dolce, in this one.

Winner: Eau Intense

Who Should Buy Versace Dylan Blue?

Buy Dylan Blue if you want the stronger projecting fragrance. It is best if you like grapefruit, bergamot, ambroxan, fig leaf, violet leaf, and pepper. It works well for casual wear, spring, summer, dates, and year-round use. It also makes sense if you want something more in the blue fragrance style.

Who Should Buy D&G Light Blue Eau Intense?

Buy Light Blue Eau Intense if you want the better summer fragrance. It is fresher, colder, longer lasting, and more aquatic than Dylan Blue. It is best if you like frozen grapefruit, mandarin, juniper, aquatic notes, musk, and amber woods. This is the better choice for hot days, vacations, casual wear, and warm-weather daily use.

FAQ: Light Blue Eau Intense vs Dylan Blue

Which is better, Light Blue Eau Intense or Dylan Blue?

Light Blue Eau Intense is better overall. It has the better opening, better longevity, and better overall scent, while Dylan Blue only wins projection.

Does Light Blue Eau Intense last longer than Dylan Blue?

Yes. Light Blue Eau Intense can last around 9 hours, while Dylan Blue usually lasts around 6-7 hours.

Does Dylan Blue project better than Light Blue Eau Intense?

Yes. Dylan Blue has the edge in projection, especially during the first part of the wear.

Which one smells fresher?

Light Blue Eau Intense smells fresher. It has a colder aquatic style with frozen grapefruit, mandarin, juniper, musk, and amber woods.

Which one is better for summer?

Light Blue Eau Intense is better for summer. It is colder, more refreshing, more aquatic, and performs well in hot weather.