The 10 Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss (2024)

If you’re looking at your supplement routine, odds are you understand the muscle-building and wellness benefits afforded by the best protein powders. Did you know, though, that these tasty shakes can be just as effective for weight loss journeys, too? Studies indicate that regular protein consumption can help with increased satiety, boosted thermogenesis, and increased fat burn during exercise. (1) As such, the best protein powders for weight loss can be excellent additions to your regimen to help maintain your calorie deficit throughout the day.

While finding a solid protein shake is easy, finding an ideal formulation for weight loss is more involved. You’ll want to search for a powder that’s rich with protein yet somewhat low in total calories. Additionally, you’ll need a powder you won’t mind drinking day in and day out, along with one that fits nicely in your budget. So, to give you a leg up in your search, we gathered over 100 top-ranked protein powders for our own tests and consumption, compiled our notes, and broke down each formulation to come up with our favorite protein powders for weight loss.

The 10 Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss (2024)

• Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
• Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Men: Momentous Whey Protein Isolate
• Best Organic Protein Powder for Weight Loss: KOS Organic Plant Protein
• Best Tasting Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Onnit Whey Protein
• Best Budget Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate
• Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Women: Legion Whey+
• Best Casein Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Transparent Labs Casein Protein
• Best Whey Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
• Best Vegan Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Ritual Essential Daily Shake 18+
• Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss with BCAAs: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder

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 before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine.

Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss Video Review

Join BarBend expert tester Jake Herod, NASM-CNC, and registered dietitian nutritionist Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD, as they break down our picks for the best protein powders for weight loss, from the best-tasting to our favorites for vegans and athletes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Udb0YqVg6g

How We Tested the Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. For this round-up, we drew upon our experiences testing 104 different protein powders from multiple brands, looking at each option as it related to weight loss over other goals like increased muscle growth or in-training performance. We brought a multi-point methodology to our findings, giving each pick a score from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across a slew of categories.

In our tests, we rated these protein supplements, naturally, on how much protein the formulations included per serving, as well as how many calories were contained in a given shake. After all, the optimal goal of a weight loss journey is to hit a calorie deficit, i.e., burning more energy than you’re consuming. (2) If a protein shake is putting more gas in the tank than necessary, it’s likely not a good pick for slimming down.

We mixed, shook, and chugged these chosen protein powders day in and day out to note their flavors and solubility. We wanted to see which supplements blended easily for quick, on-the-go consumption, as well as how intriguing and enjoyable we found the flavors. While we understand that taste preferences can vary from person to person, we tried to include proteins we enjoyed ourselves, or at least proteins that offered a solid variety to avoid any potential flavor fatigue.

Ready to mix up your weight loss journey with tasty, effective beverages? Grab your trusty shaker bottle and let’s get into our findings.

[Related: How to Lose Weight Fast, According to Science]

Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate

If you’re familiar with our protein-related content, you’re aware of our praise for this impressive powder from Transparent Labs. This high-quality supplement earns its place atop this list thanks to its protein-rich formulation with lower counts of fats and carbs, abundance of flavor options, and excellent solubility when mixed with water or other beverage bases.

We also like how Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate uses 100 percent grass-fed whey protein isolate as its sole source of protein. Whey protein isolate is a more refined type of whey protein that’s filtered to remove the lactose and fat content. Additionally, studies indicate that supplementing with whey protein isolate may help reduce weight gain and adiposity (severe obesity) associated with a high-fat diet. (3)

Our tester, a certified personal trainer, said this protein powder was one of the best when it came to solubility, rating this Transparent Labs offering at 5 out of 5 for the category. “I had no hiccups in blending this protein powder with my liquid of choice — typically, water or milk,” they noted. “There were no clumps or residue. It’s one of the smoothest protein powders I’ve ever had.”

Another area where Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate earned a perfect score was in the flavor variety. The 5 out of 5 rating, of course, stemmed from our personal enjoyment with the tested flavors, as well as Transparent Labs’ robust roster of tastes. This can help athletes mix up their regimens every now and again with little deviation across the formulation. Some flavors offer more or less carbs, fats, and overall calories, but having some variety can be great for keeping your calorie counts intact while still defending against flavor fatigue.

Of course, though, this impressive protein powder for weight loss has its faults, which mostly stem from its price and packaging options. We rate this supplement at 3.5 out of 5 for costs per serving because the $2 per dose is higher than most powders on the market. In testing, we found average prices lingered between $1 and $1.75 per serving, so this option may not be best for budget-conscious athletes. 

Additionally, there’s no option for bigger tubs, which could help cut the costs down. What you see is what you get. If you’re willing to pay the premium, though, there’s few protein powders that can top this Transparent Labs offering.

Read our full Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate Review.

Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Men: Momentous Whey Protein Isolate

While protein powders for weight loss can be used by athletes of any gender, there are certain formulations that can benefit male or female athletes more so than others. (6) For men looking to boost their weight loss regimen with an effective protein shake, we recommend Momentous Whey Protein Isolate. We like this formulation for male athletes because of the key dosages of vital micronutrients, along with the hearty 22.27 to 23.4 grams of protein per serving.

The main micronutrient of note in Momentous Whey Protein Isolate is potassium. Each scoop can deliver between 110 and 260 milligrams, which is appealing to male athletes looking to reach the recommended 3,400 milligrams per day. (5) According to studies, men can benefit from this formulation thanks to potassium’s ability to help prevent heart-related illnesses. (4)

During our trials, Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, praised this Momentous offering for its rich, easy-to-drink makeup, giving the protein shake a 4 out of 5 for taste. “I tried the chocolate variety and found it to be very similar to rich cocoa, even when mixed with ice-cold water,” she said.

Additionally, we found Momentous Whey Protein Isolate to be fairly soluble, earning it 4.5 out of 5 for the category. We did notice some clumping with the unflavored variety at times, but this was more of an anomaly than an exhibited pattern, so we were happy to give our mixtures a few more hard shakes. Also, some customer reviews have noted some stomach discomfort after consuming this powder. “The chocolate flavor is great, but the choice of sweetener is awful. Lots of bloat and gas problems,” said one customer.

While we do view this high-quality protein as a worthwhile pick for men embarking on a weight loss program, we understand that it’s not for every athlete. At $2.70 per serving, this is way beyond the average $1 to $1.75 price of protein. For this reason, we rate this Momentous pick at 1 out of 5 for cost.

There’s also the notion of flavor variety. In testing, we felt Momentous did the classic chocolate and vanilla tastes well, hence our rating, but those looking for more adventurous flavor profiles may want to opt for a different top pick.

Best Organic Protein Powder for Weight Loss: KOS Organic Plant Protein

One of our favorite organic protein powders is also a fantastic option for weight loss. KOS Organic Plant Protein derives its 20 grams of protein from a mix of all-natural, USDA Certified Organic ingredients, keeping its macronutrients on-par with other animal-based powders we’ve tested over the years.

We also appreciate the taste of this organic protein powder, which makes getting a shake down all the more feasible. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, rated this option a 4.5 out of 5 for taste, stating, “I had the chocolate formula and it was actually rich. I’ve had other plant-based proteins before, but this is the one I’d choose more regularly because of the enjoyable flavor profile.”

Naturally, though, taste can be a subjective metric from athlete to athlete. Some have reported a chalky mouthfeel with this protein powder, while others report no such issues. Be sure to take your own preferences into account before ordering a container of your own.

As far as the nutritional makeup of this protein powder, we rated KOS Organic Plant Protein a 4 out of 5, as well. Yes, the 20 grams of protein is light compared to other supplements on the market, but the blend’s pea and quinoa-based protein provides all nine essential amino acids for a more complete profile.

When it comes to mixing this protein powder, we do recommend putting in some extra effort. The 3 out of 5 solubility rating was scored based on the numerous floaties we encountered during testing. “I also found that clumps were more prominent when mixed with a thicker liquid like milk,” notes our tester. “I’d recommend a countertop blender over a shaker bottle for this protein powder.”

While this is an excellent protein powder for vegan athletes targeting weight loss, we do recommend paying close attention to the calories per serving with this shake. Naturally, the calories will vary by chosen flavor, but many hover around the 160 mark with Chocolate Peanut Butter being the fullest formulation at 165 calories. These measurements are higher than other proteins we recommend for weight loss goals, which typically come in below 150 calories per serving.

Those with allergies or food sensitivities will also want to scan the label before purchasing this blend, as the formulation contains tree nuts. 

Read our full KOS Organic Plant Protein Review.

Best-Tasting Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Onnit Whey Protein

Supplementing with a protein powder when working to lose weight can help increase thermogenesis and satiety throughout your day. (7) Of course, you’ve got to actually drink your shake to reap those benefits, and that can be tough if you’re dreading the taste. Thankfully, there are plenty of flavorful options to choose from for your journey, with Onnit’s Whey Protein being our favorite when it comes to keeping our taste buds happy.

Our tester, a certified personal trainer, rated Onnit Whey Protein’s taste and flavor profile at 5 out of 5. “I was really surprised by the unique chocolate notes across the Mexican Chocolate variety,” they noted. “I really enjoy this protein when combining it with whole milk or oat milk.”

In addition to being gluten-free and certified by Informed Sport to contain no banned substances, this supp has an impressively low calorie count. Depending on your preferred flavor — Vanilla or the aforementioned Mexican Chocolate — you can expect either 110 or 120 calories per serving. This can be great for weight loss, as the fewer calories within each shake prove less of a threat to your caloric deficit throughout the day.

We scored Onnit Whey Protein’s formulation a 4.5 out of 5, dinging it slightly since the macronutrient split is less protein-heavy than other powders we’ve tested. Its fat content clocks in between 2 and 2.5 grams per dose, while carbs sit at 3 to 4 grams. This may be less ideal for weight loss athletes, as our tester, a registered dietitian, recommends a weight loss protein composed of 90 percent protein. With these measurements, Onnit contains between 75 and 80 percent protein.

Despite the less protein-dominant formulation, we still hold this protein in high regard for flavor and solubility. Even when mixing this powder with water, our tester noted no clumps or residue, leading to their 5 out of 5 rating for mixability. 

Will you find a robust variety of flavors with this protein powder for weight loss? No, but Onnit’s attention to detail has produced two top-notch tastes that we won’t get tired of anytime soon. What this protein supplement lacks in flavor quantity, it most certainly makes up for in quality.

Read our full Onnit Whey Protein Review.

Best Budget Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate

At less than 90 cents per serving, Nutricost’s Whey Protein Concentrate is well below the $1 to $2 average you tend to see for whey protein powders, let alone one made from grass-fed dairy. We also like this Nutricost profile as a budget offering since you can get it in either 2- or 5-pound containers, making it easier to buy in bulk. We scored its overall value a 5 out of 5. 

But there’s more to like with this Nutricost offering beyond its low price point. For one, it’s both non-GMO and gluten-free. It’s also been third-party tested for banned substances, though our tester, Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, wishes the testing had been performed by a major lab. 

As for taste, Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate scored a 4 out of 5. “It’s not overly sweet, and I had no issues getting a shake down each and every day,” she said. “I also like that it had a bit of texture and wasn’t thin like a lot of other powders.” She even noted that the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor went down smooth with no aftertaste, despite her not being a fan of the flavor typically. 

[Related: Best Supplements for Weight Loss]

She also found this powder easy to blend in milk or water — though she preferred milk — with no tangible clumps or unwanted residue. As such, she scored it a 5 out of 5 in terms of solubility.

Those prone to flavor fatigue may not like that Nutricost offers just five standard flavors. Also, a few of their offerings contain sucralose, an artificial sweetener. After taking it regularly for two weeks, Meier didn’t experience any side effects or GI distress, but you’ll want to consider your own sensitivities before scooping up a tub. “Protein supplements have a tendency to upset my partner’s stomach, but we had no issues with this one,” she added.

Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Women: Legion Whey+

While we’ve stated that protein powders for weight loss aren’t specific to male or female athletes, there are some formulations that may benefit one individual more so than the other. (6) For example, studies show that women targeting weight loss tend to fare better with a protein rich in BCAAs. (9) With 5.6 grams of a well-balanced amino acid profile, we recommend Legion’s Whey+ for such needs.

We previously declared this product one of the best protein powders for women thanks to its natural makeup containing no hormones, artificial ingredients, or added sugars. Legion also pays close attention to its protein source for Whey+, using whey protein isolate from grass-fed cows raised on small dairy farms in Ireland. The protein powder is also certified by Truly Grass Fed and Animal Welfare Approved, meaning the grass-fed cows are raised in as ideal conditions as possible throughout their lifespans.

As far as macronutrients are concerned, our tester, a certified personal trainer, gave the formulation a 5 out of 5. “I like how this protein powder delivers a good amount of protein while keeping carbohydrates to a minimum — between 2 and 6 grams per serving depending on your chosen flavor.” They did notice clumps post-blending, but the structure of the shake itself is definitely worthwhile.

Be mindful, though, that Whey+ does not include any extra digestive enzymes, which could lead to some side effects for female athletes susceptible to stomach discomfort and bloat with other protein powders. According to research, women may be more prone to these side effects than their male counterparts. (14)

We also gave Whey+ a 4.5 out of 5 when it comes to flavor and taste. While some customers have their subjective opinions on individual offerings — our tester said the Cinnamon Cereal variety was less rich than they’d prefer — it’s hard to find a protein supplement with as robust of a lineup as this one. You have 16 flavors to choose from, which should help prevent flavor fatigue.

Finally, Legion offers Whey+ in multiple container sizes, which is great for athletes that prefer to buy their supplements in bulk. We recommend taking advantage of the larger tubs when possible, though, as this protein can begin to creep toward the expensive side of the spectrum. Larger containers, including 78-serving and 82-serving bags, can help keep costs per serving down around $1.46 — a price more in line with other proteins on the market.

Read our full Legion Whey+ Review.

Best Casein Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Transparent Labs Casein Protein

For athletes targeting weight loss, whey protein isn’t the only way to build muscle mass and increase satiety throughout the day. Casein protein can be just as fulfilling thanks to its slower-digesting makeup that can help you stay full, particularly during the evening hours and post-workout. (11) In our opinion, Transparent Labs Casein Protein tops the list when it comes to casein proteins for such a need.

While there’s only Vanilla and Chocolate flavors to choose from, we still rate this Transparent Labs Casein at 5 out of 5 when it comes to overall taste. Additionally, our tester, a certified nutrition coach, gives this powder a 4.5 out of 5 for solubility. “I had no issues in breaking up clumps during blends,” they noted. “This was quite the welcome treat, as other caseins I’ve had tend to clump up more often than not.”

Also, this casein powder delivers 25 grams of protein per serving. This can be excellent for staving off those cravings in-between meals or workouts, stemming back to casein’s slow-digesting qualities. This is also why casein is typically consumed in the evening — it stays in your system throughout the night to fuel muscle growth more so than whey protein.

We do recommend paying close attention to the carb count with this powder — 4 grams of carbohydrates is higher than other proteins we’ve tested, which may be a detriment if you’re looking to limit carb intake during weight loss.

Like other Transparent Labs products, this Casein Powder is free of artificial preservatives, colorings, and flavors for a clean makeup when compared to other formulations on the market. 

This casein also shares some less than ideal similarities with its brand brethren, though. For one, there’s one 30-serving container to choose from, meaning there’s no opportunity to buy in bulk. This is also a detriment as there’s no chance to potentially shrink the $2 cost per serving.

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

Best Whey Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO

When looking for a protein powder for any fitness goal, you’re likely to find plenty of whey protein options. While there’s no shortage of viable whey protein powders out there, for weight loss, specifically, we recommend Authentic ISO from Jacked Factory.

We like how this impressive protein supplement uses grass-fed whey protein isolate as its protein source, as this type of protein is more filtered and refined than whey protein concentrate, which can aid in thermogenesis. (7)

Additionally, this protein powder earns a 5 out of 5 for cost thanks to its budget-friendly price. We’ve found this protein listed as low as $0.93 per serving, which is well below the average $1 to $1.75 typically found across the category. Cost will vary by flavor, though, so you may need to adjust your palate preferences if you want the best deal.

Speaking of flavors, our tester, a certified personal trainer, gave Authentic ISO some high praise during trials. “I really enjoyed the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor, which had a good consistency when mixed with milk. I’d also recommend adding some ice cubes to your concoction for a sweet treat throughout the day.” Be mindful, though, that some flavors may be too sweet for certain taste buds. According to some customers, a bitter chaser was necessary to get the sugary sensation cleared from their palates.

As pleasing and enjoyable as this protein shake is, though, we’d be remiss to not point out the potential side effects. We rated Authentic ISO a 3.5 out of 5 for the category due to the formulation’s inclusion of sucralose and stevia. Studies indicate that these sweetening agents can cause GI distress in some athletes. (12) Before ordering a container for yourself, be sure to take your personal sensitivities into consideration.

Finally, while we applaud Jacked Factory for bringing variety to the table with the eight available flavors of Authentic ISO, that same assortment isn’t present when it comes to the container sizes. This protein is only available in 30-serving tubs, which may be a deterrent for athletes that prefer to buy their supplements in larger quantities.

[Related: Are There Foods That Burn Fat? The Science Behind the Weight Loss Claim]

Best Vegan Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Ritual Essential Daily Shake 18+

If you’re a vegan athlete that’s looking to support your weight loss journey with protein powder, you may feel like your options are limited. Studies show that plant-derived protein sources are often less calorie dense than their animal-based counterparts. (13) This could potentially lead to overeating to try and achieve similar energy levels. Thankfully, Ritual’s Essential Daily Shake 18+ has a robust, transparent makeup that leaves you satiated and supported throughout your supplement regimen.

Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, said that this impressive protein powder was a nice addition to her routine, giving it a 4 out of 5 for taste. “Even just with water, I found this powder had a nice flavor to it. It’s not super plant-y or hemp-y like other plant-based proteins I’ve tried over the years.”

Additionally, Meier gave Ritual Essential Daily Shake 18+ a perfect 5 out of 5 for solubility, saying this shake had “shockingly” excellent consistency with a smooth texture.

We also appreciate this vegan protein powder for weight loss because of Ritual’s commitment to transparency. Every ingredient — such as the organic, non-GMO pea protein used in the formulation — can be traced back to its source with detailed information for every step of the processing journey. Plus, this powder is Informed Sport Certified, meaning it’s free of any banned substances.

To enjoy the perks of heightened transparency, however, you’ll need to plan for some extra spending. We rate this vegan-friendly Ritual protein powder a 2 out of 5 for cost due to its $2.67 price per serving. Additionally, you’re only getting 15 servings per container, which is far lower than the typical 30 you’d receive with other protein powders.

Finally, we should mention that Ritual operates under a subscription-based model, meaning your initial purchase automatically signs you up for repeat orders down the road. This can be great if you’re fully committed to this protein powder for the long haul, but if you fancy a new supplement — or different flavor — every now and again, you could be in for some unwanted emails or phone calls to cancel your subscription.

[Related: The 12 Best Vegan Protein Powder of 2023]

Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss with BCAAs: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder

When dieting, it’s not uncommon for athletes to lose muscle mass as they’re working to reduce body fat. Supplementing with BCAAs can help offset that muscle loss, as studies have shown how important these branched-chain amino acids — leucine, isoleucine, and valine — are to building lean muscle mass and post-workout recovery. (15)(16) In addition to heaps of protein, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard delivers 5.5 grams of BCAAs and 11 grams of EAAs (essential amino acids) per serving, all of which can help you recover faster so you can knock out more reps and see the gains you’re chasing. 

Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD, was impressed by Gold Standard’s macro balance — 24 grams of protein, 3 grams of carbs, and 1.5 grams of fat per serving — when assessing it for BarBend. “I like the macro ratio in Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard formula,” she said, rating it a 4 out of 5. “You get 24 grams of protein with every scoop, including a good amount of BCAAs and EAAs, and it’s low in carbs.”

Gold Standard is third-party tested for banned substances, and BarBend also conducted our own independent lab tests. The Vanilla Ice Cream flavor passed with flying colors, getting an A and scoring in the top 10 percent among all sampled proteins for label accuracy and metals, bisphenols, phthalates, and pesticides. 

We also like that Gold Standard comes in more than 15 flavors. “No getting bored with the taste of this protein powder,” says Bourgeois. Our testers agree, scoring flavors like Delicious Strawberry, Mocha Cappuccino, and Double Rich Chocolate a 5 out of 5. 

[Related: The Best BCAA Supplements, RDN-Approved]

But if you’re averse to artificial flavorings, says Bourgeois, you’ll want to avoid this powder. Also, she says, “It’s interesting that Optimum Nutrition uses a blend of whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, and hydrolyzed whey protein for its Gold Standard Formula — It would be nice to know how much of each type of protein is included in the blend.”

Finally, we commend Optimum for selling this protein powder in multiple container sizes, as it makes stocking up on our supplement stacks a breeze. Unfortunately, though, not every flavor is available in the same quantities. 

Read our full Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein Review.

How We Chose the Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss

There are a variety of protein powders available, and it seems like a new one is released every day. We looked at a handful of factors like the calorie distribution, the protein content itself, flavors available, protein type, and price to bring you this curated list of protein powders specifically beneficial when it comes to weight loss journeys.

Calorie Distribution

When looking at protein powders for weight loss, the amount of protein per serving isn’t the sole metric to consider. Your powder’s calorie count is also important, as this can make it easier to achieve and maintain a caloric deficit, the ideal way for supporting weight loss. (2) As such, we looked for protein powders that weren’t too dense — roughly 140 calories or less. We also understand that calories can vary from flavor to flavor, so we made sure to note which protein powders showcased a higher count to keep you as informed as possible.

The calorie makeup of protein powders for weight loss should also be mainly derived from the supplement’s protein dosage. This is so you can reap the thermogenic benefits of protein supplementation for more efficient weight loss. (7) We listed which protein options had an optimal breakdown of macronutrients, as well as which listed selections should be examined more intricately when calculating how many calories you should eat for optimal weight loss.

Protein Per Serving

The amount of protein you receive in a single shake can vary from brand to brand, but on average, we found that most powders ideal for weight loss range between 20 and 28 grams per dosage. Higher protein content, roughly 24 grams and above, can be ideal for increasing satiety, i.e., keeping you feeling full for longer bouts between whole meals. (1)

While some picks in this list fall below 24 grams of protein per serving, we made note of their efficiency and performance elsewhere during testing. Some of these powders proved exceptional for athletes following restricted diets, while others simply showcased standout flavors or solubility.

Available Flavors

Some of us are creatures of habit that prefer to have a predictable protein shake that we know and like. But even those who are the most stuck in our ways like to shake things up (no pun intended) once in a while, which is why we put a premium on having a wide variety of flavors available for our picks. Most of them have at least two options, while some have six, eight, or more to choose from. No matter your taste preference, we’re sure you can find something on this list to make your taste buds rejoice.

Protein Type

Searching for a protein powder for weight loss will likely generate results showcasing a variety of protein sources. We’ve included powders utilizing whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, casein protein, and even plant-based protein, as there’s a reason to choose one over the next depending on your individual needs.

Plant-based protein powders can be optimal solutions for athletes that experience GI distress with animal-derived protein. Naturally, these pea and rice proteins can also be worthwhile for those following restricted diets like veganism.

Whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate are also popular options in the category. Isolates are more refined thanks to an extra step in the manufacturing process that filters out excess lactose and fat. As such, these are typically more expensive than other protein powders. Whey concentrate proteins are commonly the cheapest options, but may contain added sugars and prove to be less digestible for some.

The final protein category we’ve included in this round-up, casein protein, can be especially beneficial for athletes looking to lose weight thanks to its slower-acting makeup. You’re not burning through casein as quickly, which can help maintain satiety for longer periods. (11) This makes casein protein a worthwhile pick for post-workout supplementation or when you need to go longer in-between meals containing whole foods.

Benefits of Protein Powders for Weight Loss

Like their effects when it comes to building lean muscle and boosting your strength in the gym, protein powders can be just as influential when it comes to slimming down, too. From keeping you full between meals, to facilitating more efficient caloric burn, to simply being a convenient option over less-than-ideal snacks, below are some of the perks that come with protein powders for weight loss.

Increased Satiety

Protein can be great for athletes on a weight loss journey thanks to its satiating qualities. (1) When you drink a protein shake, you’re more likely to feel full than you would with other snacks or meals. This can do wonders for your weight loss journey, as there’s less room for cravings to wreak havoc on your nutritional plan throughout the day.

Convenience

Another perk to keeping protein powders at the ready throughout your day is that you can quickly add some fulfilling calories to your diet without much effort. After all, you only need a shaker cup full of water, milk, or other preferred liquid and you’re a few shakes away from a hearty snack or meal replacement. This can be a great solution, especially when your schedule is too packed for you to put your chef hat on.

Naturally, the best nutrition plan involves a diet composed of mostly whole meals, so we don’t recommend relying on protein powders as your sole source of protein and other macronutrients. That said, though, the level of effort makes hitting your macro goals much more achievable if you’re in a rush or don’t have the time required to cook up a hearty plate.

Helps Burn the Right Calories

Studies show that protein intake has a positive effect on thermogenesis within the body, or how much heat you’re creating internally. (7) This heat can help you burn more calories as you digest your consumed shake, leading to increased fat loss instead of your body eating away at your muscle mass during caloric deficits.

That said, supplementing with protein during your weight loss journey won’t target specific areas of fat buildup. Spot treatment is a myth, so you won’t shed that unwanted belly fat from just protein shakes alone. Proper, regimented protein consumption can potentially help with fat loss overall, but there’s no magic to where that fat gets pulled from.

How Much Do Protein Powders for Weight Loss Cost?

Prices for protein powders can run the gambit, which can leave athletes questioning whether a more expensive supplement is truly worth its heightened cost. Thankfully, we’ve crunched the numbers for you during our trials, which you can find below.

Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss Overall	Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate	$2 Per Serving
Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Men	Momentous Whey Protein Isolate	$2.70 Per Serving
Best Organic Protein Powder for Weight Loss	KOS Organic Plant Protein	$1.72-$2.14 Per Serving
Best Tasting Protein Powder for Weight Loss	Onnit Whey Protein	$2 Per Serving
Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Women	Legion Whey+	$1.46-$2 Per Serving
Best Casein Protein Powder for Weight Loss	Transparent Labs Casein Protein	$2 Per Serving
Best Whey Protein Powder for Weight Loss	Jacked Factory Authentic ISO	$0.93-$1.33 Per Serving
Best Vegan Protein Powder for Weight Loss	Ritual Essential Daily Shake 18+	$2.67 Per Serving
Best Budget Protein Powder for Weight Loss	Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder	$0.98-$1.29 Per Serving

Typically, you can expect to pay more for more refined protein options, like whey protein isolate or plant-based proteins. Additionally, you can potentially save some coin by purchasing your protein powders for weight loss in larger quantities. Many brands offering various container sizes will shrink the price per serving if you opt to pick up more powder in one fell swoop.

In our research, we’ve found that most high-quality proteins come in between $1 and $1.75 per serving. Some may cost closer to $2, but often due to their reliance on whey protein isolate as a driving source of the macronutrient.

What to Consider Before Buying Protein Powders for Weight Loss

When looking for a protein powder to aid you in your weight loss journey, you might want to consider a few things before completely revamping your supplement routine. Thinking about the flavors available, protein content, and type of protein are always good foundational factors, along with other components related to your personal diet and nutritional needs. Below are some of our recommended considerations when deciding on a proper protein powder for weight loss.

Protein Content

Protein content varies from powder to powder, but the average is around 20 grams per serving. Higher protein content is usually desirable for weight loss thanks to the potential to increase satiety and thermic effect. (1)(7)

In general, powders with protein counts between 24 and 28 grams per dosage can be a good sweet spot to consider, but always take your personal nutritional needs and wants into consideration when looking at your macronutrients. If you’re already eating a protein-rich diet as part of your weight loss regimen, feel free to seek out a protein powder with less protein per scoop.

Calories Per Serving

One of the main ways to facilitate weight loss is by achieving and maintaining a caloric deficit. (2) To do this, you’ll need to be mindful of your intake throughout your eating schedule, and a protein shake that’s heavy on calories can lead to off-kilter numbers or cause you to sacrifice a later meal to maintain such deficits.

We recommend opting for a protein powder delivering between 100 and 140 calories per serving. These measurements can be easier to plan around than other, denser options like you’d find in, say, some mass gainer supplements. Additionally, we’ve found that protein powders with these caloric counts are sufficient enough in sustaining satiety between whole meals. (1)

Available Flavors

If you’re using a protein powder as part of your weight loss journey, odds are you’ll be turning to this trusty shake day in and day out. As such, it’s important to opt for a protein supplement that showcases a pleasing flavor profile aligned to your wants and needs.

It can also be helpful to search for a protein powder that’s available in multiple flavors. While we’re not instructing you to try them all — do you — having an assortment of tastes across a singular protein option can be a great resource when it comes to flavor fatigue. For example, you may love the taste of vanilla, but is it something you’d enjoy consuming daily, sometimes multiple times in 24 hours?

Having a well-rounded flavor roster can allow you to explore other options without deviating too drastically from your overall formulation. Most protein powders will keep protein dosages and calorie counts similar to one another from flavor to flavor.

Price

Naturally, you want to go with a protein powder that fits into your budget as well as it does your diet plan. When thinking of your powder’s overall cost, it’s best to view the number in price per serving. 

While some brands give you this metric pre-calculated, others require a little more math. Simply divide the total cost of the container by the included amount of servings. Typically, you can find a high-quality protein powder for weight loss with a cost per serving between $1 and $1.75. Outliers on either end do exist, but this is the range we’ve found to be the most common.

Final Word

Protein powders can be powerful allies when it comes to achieving your weight loss goals. According to studies, these supplements can help you decrease your appetite in-between whole meals, help you burn calories more efficiently throughout the day, and serve as worthwhile cogs in your efforts to maintain that vital caloric deficit. (1)

When searching for an ideal protein powder to add to your weight loss regimen, consider how many calories each serving adds to your daily intake, as well as how dominant the protein presence is in comparison to other macronutrients. You’ll also want to find a supplement that’s tasty enough for daily consumption, as well as a powder that doesn’t weigh down your budget with expensive costs per serving. Using this guide as a blueprint should help you get the skinny on which protein shakes are worthwhile when your sights are set on slimming down.

FAQs

References

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2. Kim, J. Y. (2021). Optimal Diet Strategies for weight loss and weight loss maintenance. Journal of Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome, 30(1), 20–31.
3. McAllan, L., Keane, D., Schellekens, H., Roche, H. M., Korpela, R., Cryan, J. F., & Nilaweera, K. N. (2013). Whey protein isolate counteracts the effects of a high-fat diet on energy intake and hypothalamic and adipose tissue expression of energy balance-related genes. British Journal of Nutrition, 110(11), 2114–2126.
4. Aburto, N. J., Hanson, S., Gutierrez, H., Hooper, L., Elliott, P., & Cappuccio, F. P. (2013). Effect of increased potassium intake on cardiovascular risk factors and disease: Systematic review and meta-analyses. BMJ, 346(apr03 3).
5. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Office of dietary supplements – potassium. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Potassium-Consumer/
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11. Bendtsen, L. Q., Lorenzen, J. K., Bendsen, N. T., Rasmussen, C., & Astrup, A. (2013). Effect of dairy proteins on appetite, energy expenditure, body weight, and composition: A review of the evidence from controlled clinical trials. Advances in Nutrition, 4(4), 418–438.
12. Farid, A., Hesham, M., El-Dewak, M., & Amin, A. (2020). The hidden hazardous effects of Stevia and sucralose consumption in male and female albino mice in comparison to sucrose. Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal, 28(10), 1290–1300. 
13. Hertzler, S. R., Lieblein-Boff, J. C., Weiler, M., & Allgeier, C. (2020). Plant proteins: Assessing their nutritional quality and effects on health and physical function. Nutrients, 12(12), 3704.
14. Narayanan, S. P., Anderson, B., & Bharucha, A. E. (2022). Sex- and gender-related differences in common functional gastroenterologic disorders. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 96(4), 1071–1089.
15. Rahmini, M. H., Shab-Bidar, S., Mollahosseini, M., Djafarian, K. (2017). Branched-chain amino acid supplementation and exercise-induced muscle damage in exercise recovery: A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Nutrition, 42:30-36. 
16. Jackman, S.R., Witard, O.C., Philp, A., Wallis, G.A., Gareth A. , Baar, K., Tipton, K.D. (2017). Branched-Chain Amino Acid Ingestion Stimulates Muscle Myofibrillar Protein Synthesis following Resistance Exercise in Humans. Frontiers in Physiology, 8.