When it comes to protein powder, there are several types to choose from, including whey, casein, soy, pea, and hemp. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks, and the critical thing to keep in mind is your fitness goals and dietary restrictions. For example, whey protein is a complete protein that's easily absorbed by the body, making it an excellent choice for muscle building. However, if you're lactose intolerant or follow a vegan diet, you'll need to opt for a different protein powder.
When selecting a protein powder, there are a few essential factors to consider. First, you'll want to look at the protein content per serving and the number of servings per container. You'll also want to consider the flavor and texture, as well as any additional ingredients, such as sweeteners or additives. Lastly, you'll want to factor in the price per serving and the overall value of the product.
After researching and testing ten different protein powders, we've identified the ones that provide the best value, taste, and nutritional benefits. Whether you're looking to build muscle, lose weight, or improve your overall health, our top picks have got you covered.
Best Protein Powders
We know that finding the right protein powder can be overwhelming. With so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've put together a list of the best protein powders on the market. Our roundup includes products that are high in quality, taste great, and offer a variety of benefits. Whether you're looking to build muscle, lose weight, or simply supplement your diet, we've got you covered. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best protein powders.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder
If you're looking for a high-quality protein powder to help build and maintain muscle, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder is a great choice.
Pros
- With 24g of protein per serving, this powder is an excellent source of protein for building and maintaining muscle.
- The naturally occurring branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) and essential amino acids (EAAs) in each serving help support muscle recovery.
- This powder is versatile and can be taken before or after exercise, between meals, with a meal, or any time of day when you need extra protein.
Cons
- Some users may find the powder to be a bit chalky when mixed with water or milk.
- While the powder is available in over 20 different flavors, some users may find that the taste is not to their liking.
- The price point may be a bit higher compared to other protein powders on the market.
We have personally used Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder and found it to be an effective way to increase our protein intake and support our fitness goals. The powder mixes well with water or milk and has a smooth texture when blended properly.
The variety of flavors available makes it easy to find one that suits your taste preferences. We particularly enjoyed the Double Rich Chocolate flavor, which had a rich, chocolatey taste without being too sweet.
Overall, we would highly recommend Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder to anyone looking for a high-quality protein supplement to support their fitness goals.
Premier Protein Powder, Vanilla Milkshake
We highly recommend the Premier Protein Powder, Vanilla Milkshake for anyone looking for a protein powder that is both delicious and effective.
Pros
- Contains 30g of protein per serving, with all the essential amino acids 100% of protein from Whey.
- Available in three delicious flavors: Chocolate milkshake, vanilla milkshake, and cafe latte. Try it mixed with water or milk, blended into your favorite smoothie recipe, or baked into protein packed recipes.
- No Soy ingredients, GLUTEN FREE.
Cons
- Packaging may vary and you may receive 23.3 ounces instead of 17 servings.
This protein powder is perfect for any time of the day, from breakfast to afternoon snack to post-exercise fuel. We have personally tried all three flavors and can attest to their deliciousness. We also love that it is gluten-free and contains no soy ingredients.
One thing to note is that the packaging may vary and you may receive 23.3 ounces instead of the expected 17 servings. However, both sizes deliver 30g of protein per serving, so you are still getting the same great product.
Overall, we highly recommend the Premier Protein Powder, Vanilla Milkshake for anyone looking to add a delicious and effective protein powder to their routine.
Dymatize ISO100 Hydrolyzed Protein Powder, 100% Whey Isolate, 25g of Protein, 5.5g BCAAs, Gluten Free, Fast Absorbing, Easy Digesting, Fruity Pebbles, 20 Servings
If you're looking for a protein powder that's easy on the stomach and tastes great, Dymatize ISO100 Fruity Pebbles Protein Powder is the way to go.
Pros
- Scientifically formulated with fast-digesting hydrolyzed whey protein isolate for muscle-building
- 25 grams of protein, which includes 5.5 grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and 2.6 grams of Leucine per serving
- Zero grams of fat and less than 1 gram of sugar per serving
Cons
- Not suitable for those who are lactose intolerant
- Some users may find the Fruity Pebbles flavor too sweet
- More expensive than other protein powders on the market
We've been using Dymatize ISO100 Fruity Pebbles Protein Powder for a while now and we're impressed with its quality and taste. The protein powder is formulated using a cross-flow micro filtration, multi-step purification process that preserves important muscle-building protein fractions while removing excess carbohydrates, fat, lactose, and cholesterol. We found that the protein powder is easy to digest and doesn't cause any gastrointestinal discomfort.
One of the things we love about this protein powder is its taste. The Fruity Pebbles flavor is delicious and reminds us of our childhood. It's not too sweet and doesn't have any artificial aftertaste. We also appreciate that it contains zero grams of fat and less than 1 gram of sugar per serving, making it a great option for those who are watching their macros.
However, we do recognize that the protein powder may not be suitable for those who are lactose intolerant. The product contains less than 0.5g of lactose, which may still cause some gastrointestinal discomfort for some people. Additionally, the Fruity Pebbles flavor may be too sweet for some users. Lastly, the protein powder is more expensive than other options on the market, but we believe that the quality and taste justifies the price.
Overall, we highly recommend Dymatize ISO100 Fruity Pebbles Protein Powder for those who are looking for a high-quality protein powder that's easy to digest and tastes great.
Body Fortress Super Advanced Whey Protein Powder, Vanilla
We highly recommend the Body Fortress Super Advanced Whey Protein Powder for anyone looking for a protein supplement that helps rebuild lean muscle faster and supports the immune system.
Pros
- The protein powder is packed with 60 grams of protein and 12 grams of BCAA's per every two scoop serving, making it an ideal supplement for post-workout recovery.
- The product is gluten-free and contains no aspartame, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
- The vanilla flavor is deliciously creamy and makes the protein powder easy to consume.
Cons
- The scoops that come with the product are different sizes, which can be confusing when trying to measure the correct serving size.
- The packaging is not filled to the top, which can be disappointing for some customers.
- Some customers have reported that the taste is not as good as they expected.
We've been using the Body Fortress Super Advanced Whey Protein Powder for a while now and have noticed a significant improvement in our post-workout recovery time. The product is easy to mix and the vanilla flavor tastes great. We appreciate that the protein powder is gluten-free and contains no aspartame, making it a safe option for those with dietary restrictions. However, we do wish that the packaging was filled to the top and that the scoops were more consistent in size. Overall, we highly recommend this product for anyone looking for a reliable protein supplement that supports immune health and helps rebuild lean muscle faster.
GHOST Whey Protein Powder, Oreo
If you're looking for a protein powder that tastes amazing and provides high-quality protein, then GHOST Whey Protein Powder, Oreo is the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The flavor is delicious and authentic, thanks to the real OREO cookie pieces in every scoop.
- With 25G of pure whey protein per scoop, it's an excellent source of protein for post-workout recovery.
- The transparent label provides complete information about the dose of each active ingredient, so you know exactly what you're getting.
Cons
- The price is a bit high compared to other protein powders.
- Some people may find the flavor too sweet.
- The powder can clump up if not mixed well.
We've been using GHOST Whey Protein Powder, Oreo for a while now, and we can confidently say that it's one of the best-tasting protein powders out there. The real OREO cookie pieces add a delicious crunch to the powder, making it a treat to drink after a workout.
The 25G of pure whey protein in each scoop is an excellent source of protein for post-workout recovery. The transparent label provides complete information about the dose of each active ingredient, so you know exactly what you're getting. This level of transparency is rare in the supplement industry, and it's something that we appreciate.
The only downside to GHOST Whey Protein Powder, Oreo is the price, which is a bit high compared to other protein powders. Some people may also find the flavor too sweet, but we think it's just right. Finally, the powder can clump up if not mixed well, so make sure to mix it thoroughly.
Overall, we highly recommend GHOST Whey Protein Powder, Oreo to anyone looking for a delicious and effective protein powder.
Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder, Creamy Chocolate Fudge
If you're looking for a protein powder that's good for you and tastes great, Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder in Creamy Chocolate Fudge is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Contains 21g of organic plant-based protein per serving
- Gluten-free, dairy-free, lactose-free, soy-free, and kosher
- Can be mixed with water, milk, or your favorite protein shake recipe
Cons
- Some people may not like the taste or texture of the powder
- May not be suitable for those with certain food allergies or sensitivities
- Some users have reported digestive issues after consuming this product
We've been using Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder for a while now, and we're really happy with it. The creamy chocolate fudge flavor is delicious and not too sweet, and the powder mixes well with water or milk. We also like that it's made with organic, plant-based ingredients and doesn't contain any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
One thing to keep in mind is that the texture of the powder can be a bit gritty, which some people may not like. Additionally, if you have any food allergies or sensitivities, you'll want to check the ingredients carefully to make sure this product is safe for you to consume.
Overall, we think Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality protein supplement that's easy to use and tastes great. Whether you're using it as a post-workout drink or as a meal replacement, this powder is a convenient and healthy option.
Dymatize Elite Whey Protein Powder
If you're looking for a protein powder that can help you build muscle and recover quickly, Dymatize Elite Whey Protein Powder is worth considering.
Pros
- Fast-absorbing and quick-digesting 100% whey protein
- High in Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) to help build muscle and speed up recovery
- Good pre, post-workout, or anytime for high-quality protein supplementation
Cons
- Packaging may vary
- May not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance
- Some users may not like the taste of the vanilla flavor
We've been using Dymatize Elite Whey Protein Powder for a while now, and we've found it to be one of the best protein powders on the market. It's a fast-absorbing and quick-digesting 100% whey protein that's high in Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) to help build muscle and speed up recovery. Each serving of Elite Whey delivers 5.5 grams of BCAAs, which are depleted during intense training. BCAAs help promote the building of protein, as well as help with speeding recovery. Elite Whey also delivers 2.7 grams of L-Leucine, the BCAA that is directly involved in activating muscle protein synthesis, the process that builds your muscles and allows you to get stronger.
While the packaging may vary, the quality of the product remains consistent. It's a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality protein supplement that can help them build muscle and recover quickly. However, if you're lactose intolerant, this may not be the best option for you. Additionally, some users may not like the taste of the vanilla flavor. Overall, we highly recommend Dymatize Elite Whey Protein Powder for anyone looking to take their fitness to the next level.
Jocko Mölk Whey Protein Powder (Chocolate Peanut Butter)
We highly recommend Jocko Mölk Whey Protein Powder (Chocolate Peanut Butter) for those looking for a high-quality protein powder that supports muscle growth and recovery.
Pros
- Designed with a time-release blend of whey concentrate, whey isolate, micellar casein, and egg for all-day muscle growth and recovery
- Blended with a plethora of amino acids to help build muscle and regulate immune function
- Contains added digestive enzymes and probiotics to keep your gut in check and ensure smooth digestion
Cons
- More expensive than some other protein powders on the market
- Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor may not be to everyone's taste
- May not mix as easily as some other protein powders
Jocko Mölk Whey Protein Powder (Chocolate Peanut Butter) is a great choice for those who want a protein powder that is free from added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and flavors. The powder is sweetened with monk fruit only, making it a great option for those who are watching their sugar intake.
We were impressed with the blend of whey concentrate, whey isolate, micellar casein, and egg in this protein powder, which slowly digests in your system and fuels muscle growth and recovery all day long. The amino acid profile is also impressive, with a plethora of necessary components to help your body build muscle and regulate immune function.
The added digestive enzymes and probiotics in Jocko Mölk Whey Protein Powder (Chocolate Peanut Butter) make it a great option for those who are looking for a protein powder that supports gut health.
Overall, we highly recommend Jocko Mölk Whey Protein Powder (Chocolate Peanut Butter) for those looking for a high-quality protein powder that supports muscle growth and recovery.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best protein powder, it can be overwhelming to choose from the vast selection of products available. Here are some key features to consider when making your decision:
Protein Content
The protein content is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a protein powder. The protein content should be at least 20 grams per serving, as this is the standard amount needed to support muscle growth and repair.
Protein Source
Different protein powders are made from different sources, such as whey, casein, soy, and pea. Whey protein is the most popular and is known for its fast absorption and high amino acid content. Casein protein, on the other hand, is slower to absorb but provides a sustained release of amino acids. Soy and pea protein are good options for those who are lactose intolerant or follow a vegan diet.
Additives and Fillers
Some protein powders may contain additives and fillers, such as artificial sweeteners and flavors, which can be harmful to your health. It's best to choose a product with minimal additives and fillers.
Price
Protein powders can vary in price, with some being more expensive than others. It's important to consider the cost per serving when making your decision, as some products may seem cheaper upfront but have a higher cost per serving.
Brand Reputation
When choosing a protein powder, it's important to consider the brand's reputation. Look for a company with a good track record of producing high-quality products and providing excellent customer service.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best protein powder for your needs and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best protein powders for weight loss?
Protein powders that are low in calories and carbohydrates are the best for weight loss. Some of the best options include whey protein isolate, casein protein, and pea protein. These protein powders are high in protein and low in calories, making them ideal for weight loss.
Which protein powder is best for beginners?
For beginners, it is recommended to start with whey protein concentrate. It is affordable, easy to find, and contains all the essential amino acids. Whey protein concentrate is also easy to digest, making it a great option for those who are new to protein powder.
What is the most effective protein powder for muscle recovery?
Protein powders that contain a blend of whey protein and casein protein are the most effective for muscle recovery. This is because whey protein is quickly absorbed by the body, while casein protein is slowly absorbed. The combination of these two proteins ensures that your muscles are getting a steady supply of amino acids throughout the day.
What are the top protein powder brands?
Some of the top protein powder brands include Optimum Nutrition, MuscleTech, BSN, Dymatize, and Cellucor. These brands are known for their high-quality protein powders that are effective and safe.
What is the best protein powder for skin health?
Collagen protein powder is the best protein powder for skin health. Collagen is a protein that is naturally found in the skin, and supplementing with collagen protein powder can help improve skin elasticity, hydration, and overall appearance.
Which protein powder has the least side effects?
Pea protein powder has the least side effects of all protein powders. It is a plant-based protein that is easy to digest and does not cause bloating or gas. Pea protein powder is also hypoallergenic, making it a great option for those with food sensitivities.
