The 11 Best Whey Protein Powders in 2024, RD Approved

When clicking through the internet to find the best protein powders, odds are that a majority of your results will come in the form of whey protein. Whey protein is a foundational supplement thanks to its efficiency in delivering the vital macronutrient in an affordable, tasty, and (oftentimes) easy-to-drink fashion. The best whey protein powders, though, take daily nutrition up a notch with well-rounded formulations designed to help you get the most out of your in-gym work.

With so many brands and products to choose from, though, it’s vital that you have a game plan together before searching for your go-to powder. To provide a roadmap for your purchasing journey, we’ve tested dozens of high-quality products from some of the industry’s most popular brands and consulted with our in-house experts to compile a list of our favorite whey protein powders available today. Get your shaker bottles ready as we dive into this sweet, sweet round-up.

The 11 Best Whey Protein Powders in 2024

• Best Whey Protein Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder
• Best Grass-Fed Whey Protein: XWERKS Grow
• Best Whey Protein for Muscle Gain: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
• Best Whey Protein for Men: Onnit Whey Protein
• Best Whey Protein for Women: Legion Whey+
• Best Whey Protein Isolate: Momentous Whey Isolate
• Best Whey Protein for Bulking: Transparent Labs Mass Gainer
• Best Budget Whey Protein: Nutricost Whey Protein Powder
• Best Hydrolyzed Whey Protein: Dymatize ISO 100
• Best Organic Whey Protein: Garden of Life Grass-Fed Organic Whey
• Best Tasting Whey Protein: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard

Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for the diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor or nutritionist before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. 

Best Whey Protein Powders Video

Join BarBend expert tester Jake Herod, NASM-CNC, and registered dietitian and nutritionist Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD, as they discuss some of the best protein powders for men, women, smoothies, and more.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0f0z9Pu9WI

How We Tested and Chose the Best Whey Protein Powders

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To determine the best whey protein powders available today, we’ve tested over 100 different profiles from the industry’s best brands, using a multi-point methodology to rate each high-quality profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Below are some of the categories and components that played into our rankings.

Type of Whey Protein

Whey proteins can typically be found in three different forms — concentrate, isolate, and/or hydrolysate. In essence, the main differentiator between these three proteins is how much of a filtration process the whey undergoes during manufacturing. 

Hydrolyzed whey is the most treated form of whey where the base component is exposed to either heat, enzymes, or acids to “pre-digest” the product by breaking some of the peptide bonds. This exposure can result in an end product that’s rapidly digested and highly tolerable (i.e., easier on the stomach) for most athletes. Given the more involved process, though, hydrolyzed whey will typically be more expensive than other forms.

Whey protein isolate is defined as a protein form with 90 percent whey protein by weight. To achieve this, the whey base material is excessively refined during processing, leaving you with a more protein-rich end product with fewer fats and carbs. The protein-heavy makeup can be excellent for athletes looking to manage their protein needs without interfering with their other macros. Additionally, the refinement process can help eliminate lactose from the makeup, making whey isolates a good option for sensitive stomachs.

[Related: The 7 Best Types of Protein Powders Explained — Which Is Best For You?]

Whey concentrate is the least filtered form of whey, making it the most affordable option amongst the three types. Whey concentrate is extracted from its animal-based source via an enzyme or acid, so it’s the closest to its source material. As a result, though, concentrates can contain higher caloric counts than other options due to the presence of more carbs and fat in the formulation.

There are no right or wrong options amongst the three whey protein types, and the best one for you will be the one you feel most comfortable with both physically and financially. As such, we did our best to include a handful of picks showcasing formulations for each protein type.

Quality Ingredients

Naturally, your high-quality protein powder will include more ingredients than just whey protein alone. While these components are vital in creating a powder that’s digestible, mixable, and (above all else) enjoyable, there are some key ingredients we examined when making our picks that we’ve found to be problematic for some stomachs.

[Related: 5 Things Most Athletes Miss About Digestive Health]

For example, artificial sweeteners like sucralose can potentially lead to GI distress in some athletes, while more natural options like stevia can sometimes leave an aftertaste. We made an effort to call out specific ingredients in our findings to help you best understand what you can expect with each protein powder.

Taste

Whether you’re consuming whey protein powder to aid in weight loss, muscle growth, or just to bolster your daily wellness routine, a supplement is only effective when you don’t mind downing a shake on a regular basis. As such, we carefully examined the flavor profiles of each pick to give you a good sense of how palatable these powders were. 

Additionally, we tended to favor whey proteins that were available in multiple flavor varieties. Not only did this lend itself to a powder being more approachable by more athletes, but having a protein formulation available in different tastes can be great at defending against flavor fatigue over time.

Naturally, we understand that taste can be a subjective factor, but we’ve done our best to include all of the listed available flavors for each protein, as well as our own notes on the tastes we tried. After all, trying a new flavor can be easier to swallow (pun intended) if you know that others have found it to be enjoyable. 

[Related: The 8 Best-Tasting Protein Powders, Tasted and Tested by Our Team]

Price

There are plenty of options out there, and we wanted to find the most competitive pricing possible. On average, you can expect to pay between $1 and $2 per serving, with more ingredient-heavy formulas sitting at the higher end of that spectrum.

Whey protein powders can come in a variety of prices, but comparing them by their listed costs online can be somewhat misleading given the range of container sizes. It can be helpful instead to look at each powder’s price per serving. On average, you can expect to pay between $1 and $2 per dose for well-rounded whey protein powders. 

We made note of how each pick stacked up against the average costs in our results below. We also understand that differing container sizes can also influence the cost per serving — more product can offset the higher price tag. As a result, if a protein powder was available in different tub sizes, we listed the lowest price per serving related to the available options.

Third-Party Testing

Our team values transparency in everything we write and the products we recommend. So, while we picked and chose the best whey protein powders, we prioritized brands that have some sort of third-party testing conducted on their product.

We also worked with a third-party accredited lab of our own to rate and score a handful of picks, analyzing each product’s purity and label accuracy. Ratings for areas including the presence of metals, pesticides, phthalates, bisphenols, and overall label accuracy were based on how well each protein sample compared to others in the sample pool. 

[Related: What’s the Difference Between Grass-Fed Whey Vs. Regular Whey?]

Best Whey Protein Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder

A solid whey protein will have a balanced formula that offers a high dose of protein with minimal fat, and low carbs — this pick is just that. Plus, the 28 grams of protein content in each serving is roughly 3 to 8 grams more than you’ll find in most whey protein powders. In terms of formulation, we gave this powder a 5 out of 5. 

“Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate packs in the protein without unnecessary fluff,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, a registered dietitian. “Each scoop provides 28 grams of protein and minimal amounts of carbs and fat.”

Since this is a whey isolate, the formulation has been filtered to reduce its lactose and fat content, resulting in servings that contain just 0 to 2 grams of carbs and 0 to 3 grams of fat, depending on the flavor. Impressive as its macros are, though, it does pack 15 grams of cholesterol, which is notable, as competitors like Xwerks Grow and Legion Whey+ contain no cholesterol at all (more on these protein powders later).

[Related: The 8 Best Whey Isolate Protein Powders, Tested by Our Experts] 

In terms of third-party testing, we also gave this product a 5 out of 5. We like that Transparent Labs lives up to its name, testing their products with labs like Labdoor, Informed Choice, and Informed Protein. “This is one of the only protein powders I’ve seen that shows you everything — including the weight of each of its ingredients,” said our tester. 

Based on our own testing, we graded Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate at a B overall for purity. This protein sample scored in the top 25 percent among all sampled powders for heavy metals, and the top 10 percent for the presence of bisphenols, phthalates, and pesticides.

We experienced no digestive issues or side effects when using this product, nor were we left with any chunks or floaties after mixing the powder with milk or water. “It also made me feel full, which is a bonus,” said our tester. We rated the powder a 5 out of 5 for solubility.

We also gave it a 5 out of 5 for taste. You can choose from 15 different flavors, which range from straightforward French Vanilla flavor options to playful Cinnamon French Toast and Blueberry Pancakes. Our tester tried the Peppermint Hot Chocolate flavor and found it evocative of the holidays. “Throw in some marshmallows and a little whipped cream and it feels like Christmas,” they said. 

The price is slightly higher than some other protein powders at around $59.99, which works out to about $2 per serving. Our team had to give the value a 3.5 out of 5 rating.

Read our full Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder Review.

Best Grass-Fed Whey Protein: Xwerks Grow

Xwerks Grow sources its protein from grass-fed cows that, per the company’s website, “naturally graze on the countryside of New Zealand.” Their dairy is also devoid of any hormones, antibiotics, or pesticides. Also, studies have shown that milk from grass-fed cows can be higher in phytonutrients than milk from grain-fed ones. (9)

Earning a 5 out of 5 for formulation, Xwerks Grow contains between 23 and 25 grams of protein, 1 gram of carbs, and 0 fat. “I like that Xwerks Grow is a lean protein powder, providing up to 25 grams of protein per scoop,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “You also get 6 grams of BCAAs, making it ideal for building muscle.” 

Specifically, this powder contains leucine, isoleucine, and valine, which studies show can promote muscle growth and assist with post-exercise recovery. (4) 

Our testers also gave high marks to Grow’s taste and solubility, rating both at 5 out of 5. “I tried the chocolate flavor and it was kind of like drinking a protein Yoo-hoo,” they said. “I’m surprised at how smooth it is. And mixing isn’t really an issue at all — I barely needed a blender ball.” 

We do wish there were some more flavor options, though. Other whey protein powders can be found with taste rosters reaching into the double digits. 

“At $1.96 per serving, Xwerks Grow is one of the more expensive options on the market,” according to Bourgeois. “Still, you get up to 25 grams of protein for $2, so it’s not too outrageous.” Nevertheless, our team did have to give a 3.5 out of 5 in this category, considering there are cheaper options available (even in this guide).

Read our full Xwerks Grow Whey Protein Review.

Best Whey Protein for Muscle Gain: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO

One of the main reasons athletes can turn to whey protein is to help support their muscle-building goals. With up to 27 grams of protein sourced from grass-fed cows, Jacked Factory’s Authentic ISO is our pick for the best whey protein powder for muscle-focused individuals. We like this powder for muscle gain, too, because the carbohydrate and fat counts are minimal — up to 4 grams for carbs and 1.5 grams for fat, depending on your chosen flavor — which can be ideal when trying to take in more protein over anything throughout the day.

Overall, we love the balance of this product and gave the formulation a 5 out of 5. “Each scoop is packed with an impressive 25 to 27 grams of protein with minimal carbohydrate and fat content,” adds Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. It also has up to 100 milligrams of calcium and 159 milligrams of potassium, electrolytes that may be affected by testosterone levels. (2)(3) 

[Related: The 10 Best Protein Powders for Muscle Gain]

However, we had to dock the formula one point because Jacked Factory does use artificial sweeteners. For some, these can cause digestive unrest, so it may not be the best product for all athletes.

We gave the overall flavor a 4 out of 5. “I tried the Fruity Cereal Splash flavor,” our tester said. “There was a slightly medicinal aftertaste, but nothing that turned me off from the product. It definitely tasted like Froot Loops.”

“This whey mixes really easily and it tastes smooth,” our tester added, giving the solubility a 5 out of 5. “But there was a tiny bit of separation that I noticed.” So, you’ll want to mix this powder in a shaker cup. Unfortunately, we had to give this whey protein powder a 1 out of 5 for third-party testing because it doesn’t seem to be verified by any labs.

If you can live with that, though, you’ll find this product has a relatively low price at about $39.99 per 30-serving container (approximately $1.33 per serving), earning it a 4 out of 5 for value. 

This 30-serving tub is the only option available, but if you purchase this whey protein isolate via Amazon, you do have the option to subscribe for repeat orders. This can also be a good way to save over time, as subscription orders typically feature a discount of 10 percent.

[Related: How Much Protein Do You Actually Need Per Day?]

Best Whey Protein for Men: Onnit Whey Protein

Let’s get this out of the way — whey protein powders aren’t gender-specific. However, there are certain powders that could potentially benefit male athletes over their female counterparts, like Onnit’s Whey Protein. This powder features between 110 and 270 milligrams of potassium per serving, which can be key for men looking to manage their testosterone levels. (26) Additionally, potassium has been linked to heart disease prevention — a condition all athletes should be looking to defend against. (25)

We also like this Whey Protein from Onnit as it relies on whey protein isolate — a more refined form of whey protein that can be more easily digested, meaning the essential amino acids needed for muscle protein synthesis can be reaped more quickly. (24)

[Related: The 11 Best Protein Powders for Men, Tested and Reviewed]

“I like the macronutrient ratio that Onnit Whey Protein provides,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “And I like that Onnit includes an enzyme blend in their ingredients to help promote good digestion.” 

We do wish, however, that Onnit would list out the product’s cholesterol content. All told, our tester scored this formulation a 4.5 out of 5. 

We rated this blend a 3.75 and a 5 out of 5 in terms of flavor and solubility, respectively. Our tester liked the flavor, but found the consistency to be lacking texture, noting that the powder almost mixed too well. “I tried the Mexican Chocolate flavor, which was good, but I struggled with how thin it was after mixing it in water,” they said. “It has a bit more body when mixed with whole or oat milk.”

Our tester was not pleased with Onnit charging $2 per serving, either, which puts it on the higher end of whey isolate powders in terms of price. It’s got some standout features, from its grass-fed dairy to its digestive enzyme blend, but it also has a less impressive macro balance than other comparably priced whey isolate powders. As such, our tester rated its value a 2.25 out of 5.

Read our full Onnit Whey Protein Review.

Best Whey Protein for Women: Legion Whey+

There’s no one specific protein that’s best for any gender. However, women have traditionally smaller builds than their male counterparts, so having a whey protein powder with excessive calories and protein counts can be more undesirable for this crowd. (1) Thankfully, Legion’s Whey+ features just 130 at most (depending on your flavor of choice) while still delivering up to 23 grams of the vital macronutrient without feeling too dense or indigestible.

Whey+ also contains up to 133 milligrams of calcium (depending on the flavor), roughly 30 to 50 milligrams more than most protein powders. Calcium plays a critical role in women’s health, as women have lower peak bone mass and a greater risk of fracture throughout their lifetimes compared to men. Moreover, the risk of fracture increases greatly in postmenopausal women with depleted energy levels. (5)

The up to 23 grams of protein packed into each serving of Legion Whey+ is still a healthy amount, but it’s about 3 to 6 grams less than other whey isolate protein powders. Nevertheless, our expert gave the formula a 4.75 out of 5. “It’s not the most protein-dense powder, but its macro ratios and ingredient sources are impressive,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN.

We also liked the 5.6 grams of branched-chain amino acids in this powder, as these are the building blocks of protein. BCAAs have been shown to improve cognitive performance, promote muscle growth, and reduce muscle soreness. (4)

“I tried the Cinnamon Cereal flavor and it tasted exactly as described,” our tester said, giving the taste a 4.5 out of 5. “I do wish the cinnamon was just a little stronger.” We also gave this product a 5 out of 5 for solubility, as we had zero issues mixing with water.

All of the items on Whey+’s trim ingredient list are naturally sourced, meaning you’ll find no artificial substances. Legion also utilizes LabDoor, a leading company in third-party testing, to ensure its products meet FDA purity standards. Its commitment to making Whey+ one of the best clean protein powders earned it a 5 out of 5 on our testing scale. 

From our independent tests, though, we did have to grade Whey+ at a C for purity. While the powder did score within the top 10 percent among all sampled proteins for pesticides, phthalates, bisphenols, and overall label accuracy, this Legion offering ranked in just the top 50 percent for the presence of heavy metals. While this isn’t a major detriment to the effectiveness of the protein, especially if you’re just consuming it every now and again, it may be best to avoid daily consumption.

Read our full Legion Whey Isolate Protein Powder Review.

Best Whey Protein Isolate: Momentous Whey Isolate

For athletes wanting a whey protein isolate for their supplement routine, Whey Isolate from Momentous is a clear standout. Depending on your choice of flavor, you can expect a powder that’s light on carbs and fat — up to 3 and 1.5 grams per serving, respectively — while still delivering up to 23.4 grams of the vital macronutrient per dose.

“Momentous Whey Protein Isolate powder is more expensive than many competing brands, but you get what you pay for. It is backed by science and formulated with the help of registered dietitians,” states Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD, who rated the formulation at 4.25 out of 5.

[Related: How Whey Protein Isolate Can Help Build and Maintain Muscle]

In addition to the impressive makeup, we also enjoyed how easily this powder blended in our shakers each day. “I thought it mixed easily enough for a quick shake,” said our tester, a former Olympian. As such, we rated the solubility at 5 out of 5.

Now, Momentous doesn’t have the same flavor roster as other whey proteins, but our tester still rated this Whey Isolate at 4 out of 5 for the category. “It was enjoyable in any liquid, but I really felt the taste come to life when mixing this powder with my milk of choice. I think the Vanilla and Chocolate varieties pair best with this creamier liquid base.”

Additionally, Momentous Whey Isolate is a good pick for athletes. The supplement carried certifications from NSF as well as Informed Choice, meaning it’s free of any banned substances or unwanted contaminants. 

Plus, our independent testing found that this whey protein isolate ranked in the top 10 percent of all sampled proteins for label accuracy, pesticides, bisphenols, and phthalates. Unfortunately, though, Whey Isolate scored in the top 50 percent for heavy metals, resulting in our overall C grading.

As a final note, we understand that the $2.70 per serving is well beyond the $1 to $2 average commonly associated with high-quality whey proteins. Thankfully, Momentous does offer a subscription service that can help you stay well-stocked for a cheaper price. A subscription can knock the cost per serving down to $2.16 — still expensive, but cheaper than a one-time purchase.

[Related: Is Grass-Fed Whey Protein Right for You? Here’s How To Know]

Best Whey Protein for Bulking: Transparent Labs Mass Gainer

When you’re looking to facilitate a bulking phase, calories are king. While we’ve had the pleasure of testing multiple mass gainer whey protein blends over the years, our favorite of the bunch is Transparent Labs’ no-nonsense formula, which we gave a 4.5 out of 5. Its macros are immense, with each serving containing up to 53 grams of protein, 14 grams of fat, and 110 grams of carbs, totaling up to 750 calories.

These numbers may seem like a lot, but studies have shown that high-calorie supplements like this mass gainer can make a significant impact on muscle growth when paired with resistance training. (10)

[Related: The 10 Best Mass Gainers, Tested by Experts and RD Approved]

What you won’t find in this formulation are any artificial sweeteners, fillers, or additives, which is rare in the mass gainer market. It’s also free of soy and added sugars, which, as our tester notes, makes it “pretty friendly to people with restrictive diets.”

“I’d recommend this for anyone who wants a mass gainer that won’t compromise their clean diet,” said our tester, a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach. “If you’re running into walls building muscle, don’t have a large appetite, or are just sick of eating chicken breasts, this can serve as a helpful meal replacement.”

You only get two flavor options, unfortunately, and some athletes may prefer more variety. But our team did like the taste, giving it a 4.5 out of 5. “I tried the Chocolate Donut and it actually tasted like I was eating a chocolate frosted donut,” our tester said.

We noticed no side effects. However, this product is quite a bit pricier than your standard whey protein. One 15-serving container costs $79.99, which is about $5.33 per serving. We gave this an overall 3 out of 5 for price compared to the other picks on this list. But TL’s Mass Gainer price is actually pretty comparable to other mass gainers on the market.

Read our full Transparent Labs Mass Gainer Review.

Best Budget Whey Protein: Nutricost Whey Protein Powder

Good whey protein doesn’t need to break the bank. Take Nutricost’s Whey Protein Powder, for example. Available in 5-pound and 2-pound containers, you can get this enjoyable protein supplement for less than $0.90 per serving — a metric well below the average $1 to $2 you can expect to pay with other whey proteins on the market.

This Amazon-available whey protein hasn’t caught our eye just based on the price, though. Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, found this Nutricost offering to rival her favorite proteins when it comes to taste. “I’m traditionally not a fan of peanut butter, but this protein powder actually had me enjoying every sip,” she said of the Chocolate Peanut Butter variety. She also rated the taste at 4 out of 5, stating, “It’s not overly sweet, and I had no issues getting a shake down each and every day.”

[Related: Bulking on a Budget? Try These Foods and Tips]

Of course, this Nutricost profile does only come in four flavored offerings, which is a smaller roster compared to other whey proteins we’ve tried. You’re essentially left with the traditional milkshake flavors, so this may not be the protein of choice for more adventurous palates.

Meier also scored the solubility at a perfect 5 out of 5. She had no issues blending this powder with milk or water, and reported no clumps or unwanted residue.

We’d also like to point out that this whey protein option is sweetened with sucralose. While Meier experienced no unwanted side effects, we understand that artificial sweeteners can lead to some GI distress in some. Be sure to take your personal sensitivities into consideration before signing up for this budget-friendly whey concentrate.

[Related: 18 Ways to Eat More Protein to Pack on Muscle Mass]

Best Hydrolyzed Whey Protein: Dymatize ISO 100 

Dymatize ISO 100 is hydrolyzed whey, meaning it can absorb into your system faster than other types of whey protein. It’s said to be easier on your digestive system, but it can also be a useful supplement for athletes in need of faster muscle recovery. (12)

[Related: What’s the Best Whey: Concentrate, Isolate, Hydrolysate?]

In addition to its fast-digesting makeup, we also like ISO 100 for its more approachable price per serving. Many whey hydrolysate supplements cost roughly $1.75 to $2 per serving, making ISO 100’s $1.25 per serving price a real bargain. “This is definitely one of the cheaper protein options available,” said our tester. “It tastes decent and mixes well, so I’d recommend it to anyone on a budget.” 

Its affordable price isn’t a reflection on its ingredients, however. We rated this formulation a 5 out of 5, taking note of its macro balance — 25 grams of protein, 1 gram of fat, and 2 grams of carbs. It also has just 1 gram of sugar and no saturated fat or added sugars. We like its 5.5 grams of BCAAs, which includes leucine — an amino acid that plays an important role in stimulating muscle growth. (4)

“It’s sweetened with sucralose and stevia and contains artificial flavors, which may leave a poor aftertaste for some,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “And it doesn’t feature a strong vitamin and mineral profile, so you’ll need to make sure you’re getting those nutrients from your whole foods.”

We rated ISO 100’s taste and solubility a 3.5 and a 4 out of 5, respectively. “I mixed together the Cocoa Pebbles flavor, which I found plenty rich in milk but lacking flavor in water,” said our tester. “I didn’t get any floaties with a regular shaker bottle, but I didn’t like how thin the consistency was when shaken with water.”

Despite this thin consistency, we’re still impressed with this protein source’s purity. ISO 100’s Gourmet Vanilla offering earned an A from our independent tests, ranking in the top 10 percent of all sampled powders for the presence of metals, pesticides, phthalates, bisphenols, and overall label accuracy.

Read our full Dymatize ISO 100 Review.

Best Organic Whey Protein: Garden of Life Grass-Fed Organic Whey

Those in search of the best clean, organic protein powders will want to give Garden of Life a shot. “Garden of Life Whey Protein uses whey sourced from 100 percent grass-fed cows, free from hormones and routine antibiotics,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, who gave the formula an overall 4.25 out of 5. “You get 21 grams of protein and a dose of probiotics with every serving. Plus, it’s third-party tested, certified organic, and environmentally conscious.”

Doubling down the clean aesthetic, our independent tests graded Garden of Life Grass-Fed Organic Whey at an overall A. This whey protein powder scored in the top 10 percent across all categories, including label accuracy and the absence of contaminants such as metals, pesticides, phthalates, and bisphenols.

Since this Garden of Life offering comes from a whey concentrate, it’s not as low in carbs and fat as whey isolate protein powders, with 21 grams of protein balanced with up to 7 grams of carbs, 2 grams of fat, and up to 130 calories (depending on your chosen flavor). This formulation is also infused with BCAAs, and includes B. lactis — a probiotic that can aid with digestion. (13)

[Related: The 8 Best Organic Protein Powders]

“I tried the Unflavored option and it did have a slightly earthy taste to it,” according to our tester who gave the flavor a 3.5 out of 5. “If you mix it with your preferred milk instead of water, however, then it’s totally unnoticeable.” 

Eating organic tends to be expensive, and this supplement is no exception. This Garden of Life powder costs $2.33 per serving, which is more expensive than your typical $1 to $2 per dose in other whey protein options. That said, if eating clean is a priority for you, it’s unlikely you’ll find a product that is as thoughtfully constructed and thoroughly tested as this palate-pleasing profile from Garden of Life. 

[Related: Is Too Much Protein Powder Bad for You?]

Best-Tasting Whey Protein: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard

If you’re looking for a good-tasting whey protein powder, it’s tough to look past Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard Whey Protein. Available in 23 different flavors, there’s practically a taste for every palate. “No getting bored with the taste of this protein powder,” adds Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN.

Additionally, this is one of the most affordable whey proteins we’ve tried, with costs per serving dropping to $0.98 in certain container sizes — a definite drop below the $1 to $2 average.

[Related: The 6 Best Optimum Nutrition Flavors (Taste-Tested)]

After trying the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor, our testers gave the taste a 4.5 out of 5. “It honestly tastes like a morning dessert or treat,” they said. However, our second tester did find the consistency a little too powdery for their preferences. 

Overall, our team gave the formulation a 4.5 out of 5. One serving is about 120 calories, including 4 grams of carbs, 1.5 grams of fat, and 24 grams of protein (these values may vary slightly by flavor).

They gave the blend a 5 out of 5 in terms of solubility, too. “I didn’t have any issues in a shaker or a blender with milk, and didn’t see any floaties in water, either,” they said. “Its consistency might be a bit thin for my liking, but your mileage may vary.”

Finally, we do appreciate the fact that Gold Standard is third-party tested, which resonates with our own findings from our independent lab tests. Optimum Nutrition’s Vanilla Ice Cream flavor variety earned an A from our findings, scoring in the top 10 percent among all sampled proteins for label accuracy and metals, bisphenols, phthalates, and pesticides. 

Cheap, clean, and enjoyable to the last drop — what’s not to like about this golden protein powder?

Read our full Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein Review. 

What’s In Your Protein Powder?

Aside from protein, there can be a range of added nutrients included in your protein powder. Here’s a guide to the most common ingredients you’re likely to find in a tub.

Whey Concentrate, Isolate, or Hydrolysate

There are different types of protein powder, which is worth considering before you buy. Usually a byproduct of cheesemaking, whey concentrate is the cheapest form of protein and contains the most fat and carbs, including lactose. Whey isolate has been processed through a microfilter and results in fewer carbs and less fat, sometimes none at all.

In contrast, hydrolysate (aka hydrolyzed whey) has been further broken down with enzymes, so it digests the fastest.

Casein

Sometimes included with whey protein powders, casein is the other protein found in milk. (Milk protein is about 80 percent casein, 20 percent whey.) Used to make cheese — it’s not a byproduct of cheesemaking, it is the product — casein digests more slowly and is more filling. It also thickens really easily, so it’s great for making protein puddings and “ice cream.”

[Related: The Best Casein Protein For Taste, Digestion, Baking, and More]

Artificial and Natural Sweeteners

Protein powders often contain either artificial sweeteners like sucralose or acesulfame potassium, as they’re widely recognized as safe for human consumption. 

Some of the protein powders we’ve included on this list contain no artificial sweeteners. These products are sweetened naturally with ingredients like stevia. 

Lecithin

This is a fatty substance used to improve mixability of pharmaceutical and food products. (14) Lecithin is usually made from soy, but sometimes you’ll find the more expensive sunflower lecithin in products that are more geared toward the soy-phobic Paleo diet crowd. There’s no good reason to fear soy lecithin unless you have an allergy or sensitivity — reams of research have found no correlation between soy ingestion and reduced testosterone levels. (15)

Digestive Enzymes

Digestive enzymes may help break down proteins, fat, carbs, and lactose. Many protein powders include a blend of these enzymes (which may include protease, lipase, or amylase). 

Some interesting evidence suggests they might help to increase the absorption rate and reduce the risk of indigestion. (16)

What to Consider Before Buying Whey Protein Powder

Protein powder is just dehydrated milk with some sweeteners, but it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the process of choosing one. Here are the most important things to keep in mind when purchasing a new protein powder.

Lactose Concerns

It’s the cheapest form and has the most calories, but whey concentrate isn’t bad: The difference is usually two or three grams of protein when compared to isolate. However, concentrate does contain lactose. It’s not a lot, but we recommend considering buying a hydrolyzed whey or whey protein isolate — which are typically easier on the stomach — if you’re really sensitive.

[Related: The Best Supplements for Bodybuilding]

Protein Content

Generally, whey protein powders have around 20 to 25 grams of protein per serving. However, you can find products that are even higher. So, as you’re searching for a whey protein powder, find a product that hits that range to get the most bang for your buck.

Hydrolyzed is typically the most expensive form of whey, and yes, some studies have found it useful for athletes. Taking whey protein hydrolysates may improve performance and reduce markers of muscle damage. However, for the average person, it won’t make a practical difference. A caveat here is that hydrolyzed whey is so broken down that it’s usually the whey of choice for people with milk allergies. (17)

(If you have a milk allergy or any food allergy for that matter, consult with your doctor before taking a protein powder.) 

Soy Lecithin

The vast majority of protein powders contain a dash of soy lecithin because it can help to improve mixability. Concerns over soy raising estrogen levels or lowering testosterone levels have been floating around the strength training world for years, but studies show that most people’s hormone levels are unaffected by soy. (22) If you want to learn more about the effects of soy, check out our video below where we dive deeper into the studies surrounding this topic. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQv8Q2Xkel4

Milk Origins

Grass-fed dairy is indeed higher in antioxidants and healthful fats, like omega-3s and CLA, than regular dairy. (18)(19) That said, whey has almost all of the fat taken out of it anyways. For context, people supplement with one or two grams of omega-3s when consciously trying to consume more. 

Grass-fed cows probably live happier lives with more time spent outdoors, which is a valid reason to prefer it. Some research points to a reduced ecological footprint, but science hasn’t determined that grass-fed beef is better for the environment compared to other conventional methods. (20)

Price

Protein isn’t the cheapest supplement on the shelf but it also doesn’t need to be the most expensive, either. Generally, higher-quality whey proteins are a little more expensive, as they tend to be grass-fed and contain more protein per serving. With that said, there are plenty of budget options, so weigh your priorities before you buy.

Calorie Content

Whey protein powders are generally pretty low calorie, as the majority of the formula contains protein. Typically, you can expect one serving of whey to be somewhere around 110 to 130 calories. However, calorie needs vary from one person to another. So if you’re looking to supplement with whey protein, consider your daily expenditure and consult a medical professional as needed. 

[Related: How Many Calories Should I Eat Per Day? A Guide for All Your Fitness Goals]

Benefits of Whey Protein Powder

Whey protein can be a foundational pillar of your regular dietary supplement regimen thanks to the litany of benefits that it carries. While we always recommend getting your daily protein counts from whole foods over supplements, below are a handful of perks that can come from taking down a nutritious whey protein shake every now and again.

Convenience

Protein from food offers vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, and healthy fats often unavailable in protein powder. However, sitting down for a full-fledged meal can be difficult at times, especially if you’re trying to balance a well-rounded nutrition plan with other responsibilities like work, social lives, chores, and (of course) the gym.

Whey protein, on the other hand, can be a quick solution to hitting your macros each day. Instead of preparing an entire meal, your protein source is streamlined to just adding some powder to your liquid of choice. This can make it easier for bodybuilders, strength athletes, and health-minded individuals to hit their macro goals without breaking out unnecessary pots and pans.

Versatility

If you think whey protein powder needs to be consumed in a protein shake, you’re sorely mistaken. There are a number of ways to utilize whey protein throughout your daily diet. You can bake with whey protein powder to give your sugary snacks a better wellness profile, add it to smoothies for a quick hit of macros, or even use it as a final sprinkling touch to your favorite snacks. The only true limitations to how you use your protein powder is your imagination.

[Related: The 10 Best High-Protein Snacks to Help You Build Muscle and Stay Full]

Promotes Lean Muscle Mass

Brian St. Pierre, MS, RD, at Precision Nutrition told us, “Whey protein has an incredibly high biological value, incredibly high leucine content, and it’s digested rapidly so you get this quick rise in muscle protein synthesis. And if you look at short-term studies, two hours after a workout you see this rapid rise in protein synthesis with whey more so than soy.”

As such, consuming a protein shake around your targeted training time can set you up for better results in the long run. After all, your car won’t perform if you don’t fuel it up. Think of protein powder as the fuel your muscles need to hit the ground running.

Final Word

There are a variety of protein types on the market, and each have their own advantages and drawbacks. We tried to pick the best for as many scenarios as we could because we know everyone is different and has different goals. Finding the right whey protein that interacts properly with your gut microbiota and that you actually enjoy taking can take some trial and error — that’s why we laid out a few options that could work for different situations.

It wasn’t easy to land on these top picks; we had to weigh ingredients, effectiveness, taste, and many other factors, including how different consumers value totally different qualities in their supplements. But we’re confident that we’ve selected the best whey protein powders no matter what your reasons are for turning to protein shakes. Each of the picks on this list is of the highest quality, so no matter which one you choose you’ll be getting a top-tier product. All we can say now is bottoms up.

FAQs

References

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