With the click of a mouse, you browse a list of the best protein powders, and it’ll arrive at your doorstep in a matter of days. This is great news since protein is an essential macronutrient that may help repair muscle tissue for strength gains and can promote satiety. As you’ll see below, there’s no shortage of whey protein benefits.
But with so many products and different options available, finding the best one is no easy task. So, we took matters into our own hands. With our team of Barbend experts, and the guidance of an RD, we tested nearly 100 protein powders to find the absolute best whey products. Read on to find the best whey protein powder for your needs and fitness goals.
The Best Whey Protein Powders, 2024
- Best Whey Protein Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder
- Best Whey Protein for Men: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
- Best Whey Protein for Women: Legion Whey+
- Best Whey Protein for Muscle Gain: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder
- Best Tasting Whey Protein: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
- Best Whey Protein for Weight Loss: Kaged Whey Protein Isolate
- Best Grass-Fed Whey Protein: XWERKS Grow
- Best Whey Protein Isolate: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder
- Best Whey Protein for Bulking: Transparent Labs Mass Gainer
- Best Sustainably-Sourced Whey Protein: Onnit Whey Protein
- Best Budget Whey Protein: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard
- Best Hydrolyzed Whey Protein: Dymatize ISO 100
- Best Organic Whey Protein: Garden of Life Grass-Fed Organic Whey
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
You can also check out this video from BarBend, where former Nutrition Editor Nick English goes over a variety of whey protein powders and their benefits. He walks you through each pick and why we chose it as a favorite.
How We Tested and Chose the Best Whey Protein Powders
BarBend’s expert product testers, a collection of fitness enthusiasts with certifications in weightlifting, nutrition, and personal training, tested more than 100 whey protein powders before assembling this list. Here are the factors we considered:
Type of Whey Protein
Whey proteins typically contain one or more of three kinds of protein: concentrate, isolate, and/or hydrolysate. They each have their own pros and cons: Whey concentrate is cheaper and extracted with an enzyme or acid; whey isolate is lower in fat and carbs; hydrolyzed whey digests more quickly and could be safer for those with allergies.
Protein Per Calorie
A gram of protein has four calories, and many measure the protein density of a supplement by how many calories it provides per gram. If a shake offers 25 grams of protein, then you’re getting 100 calories (if there aren’t any added carbs and fat.) To keep calories lower, you typically want a protein powder with fewer grams of carbs and fats. So, pay attention to this number.
Quality Ingredients
We can’t ignore that many athletes prefer to avoid artificial sugars and flavors. To that end, we’ll point out the presence of aspartame, sucralose, acesulfame potassium, and anything else used to sweeten the product, like stevia or sugar alcohols, which can impact digestive health among a small portion of the population.
Soy is a trendy addition to protein supplements as a means to improve texture. Perhaps you have issues with thickeners and stabilizers like xanthan gum or carrageenan, which can cause digestive discomfort. Again this is about your preference, but we take these ingredients into account.
Product Taste
Chalky, smooth, sweet, earthy, bitter…there are many ways a protein powder can taste. We consider the real taste test to be how a protein powder tastes with water — it’s not as hard to make something that tastes good with milk. However, for the products we found a little thin, we also mixed them with milk to truly find the best-tasting protein powder.
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.
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.
[Related: What’s the Difference Between Grass-Fed Whey Vs. Regular Whey?]
Best Whey Protein Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder
With 8 different flavors and 28 grams of whey protein from hormone-free, grass-fed cows, Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is an excellent way to hit your protein macros.
Specs
- Protein Per Serving: 28g
- Calories Per Serving: 120
- Key Ingredients: Grass-fed whey isolate, stevia
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Flavors: Milk Chocolate, French Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Mint Chocolate Chip, Vanilla Peanut Butter, Strawberry Milkshake, Unflavored, Dark Chocolate, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, Cinnamon French Toast, Sugar Cookie, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie, Blueberry Pancakes
- Added Sugar: Stevia extract
- Price Per Serving: $2
Pros
- This powder packs 28 grams of protein per serving, which is three to eight grams more than other whey isolate powders.
- You can choose from 15 flavors.
- This powder contains additional micronutrients like calcium, iron, and potassium.
Cons
- The 15 grams of cholesterol in this mix is higher than average.
- It doesn’t contain any creatine or other post-workout additives.
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 three to eight 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 zero to two grams of carbs and zero to three 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.
In terms of third-party testing, we also gave this product a 5 out of 5. We like that Transparent Labs lives up to their name, testing their products with labs like Labdoor and Informed Sport. “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.
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. Despite its price, this formulation doesn’t include any types of creatine or other post-workout additives you’ll find in some protein powders.
Read our full Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder Review.
Best Whey Protein for Men: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
Dig into this easily digesting grass-fed whey isolate that provides 25 grams of protein with each lean 110 calorie scoop. It comes in three tasty flavors at a cost-effective price making it a solid choice for nearly anyone.
Specs
- Protein Per Serving: 25g
- Calories Per Serving: 110 to 140
- Key Ingredients: Whey protein isolate
- Third-Party Tested: No
- Flavors: Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies & Cream, Unflavored, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie
- Added Sugar: Sucralose
- Price Per Serving: $1.33
Pros
- This powder has a higher-than-average 25 grams of protein, ideal for men trying to pack on muscle.
- It contains four grams of carbs and one gram (or less) of fat.
- At $1.33 per serving, this product is between 30 and 70 cents cheaper than other whey isolate protein powders.
Cons
- This product contains sucralose, an artificial sweetener.
- There are no bulk purchase options.
We all need protein, so there’s no one best protein powder for men, but we like Jacked Factory Authentic ISO for packing 25 grams of protein per serving, roughly three to five grams more than many competitors. We wanted a protein-dense powder for this slot, since research has shown that adults with larger bodies tend to require more protein content. (1)
Overall, we love the balance of this product and gave the formulation a 5 out of 5. Jacked Factory Authentic ISO’s lean formulation balances its 25 grams of protein with minimal fat and carbohydrate content, even as little as 0g of both, depending on the flavor. It also has up to 100 milligrams of calcium and 159 milligrams of potassium, electrolytes that may be affected by testosterone levels, depending on the flavor. (2)(3)
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 a 4 out of 5 for value.
Best Whey Protein for Women: Legion Whey+
An all natural, non-GMO, fat-free whey that's cheaper than many competitors, Legion Whey Isolate Protein Powder is made from 100 percent grass-fed whey protein isolate from sustainable dairy farms in Ireland. It's also higher in calcium compared to other powders on the market.
Specs
- Protein Per Serving: 21 to 23g
- Calories Per Serving: 100 to 130
- Key Ingredients: Whey protein isolate
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Flavors: Chocolate, Apple Pie, Banana Bread, Birthday Cake, Chocolate Hazelnut, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Cereal, Cocoa Cereal, Cookies & Cream, Fruity Cereal, Honey Cereal, Mocha Cappuccino, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Banana, Unflavored, Vanilla
- Added Sugar: Stevia
- Price Per Serving: $1.80
Pros
- The low calorie count and moderate protein dose of this powder is suited for women looking to build muscle.
- You can choose from 16 different flavor options.
- There’s no artificial sweeteners, flavors, or food dyes.
Cons
- The taste is fine, but its flavor is lacking.
- You can find more budget-friendly protein powders.
There’s no one specific protein that’s best for any gender. However, considering adults assigned female at birth tend to have smaller builds, we wanted to choose a supplement with low-to-moderate doses of both as the best protein powder for women. (1)
The 22 grams of protein packed into each serving of Legion Whey+ is still a healthy amount, but it’s about three to six grams less than other whey isolate protein powders. Nevertheless, our RD 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 blocked-chain amino acids in this powder (these are the building blocks of protein). BCAAs, which you get from food, as your body can’t make them, have been shown to improve cognitive performance, promoting muscle growth, and reducing muscle soreness. (4)
Finally, 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)
“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.
This protein does sit on the pricier side at about $1.60 per serving or $47.99 for a 30-serving bag. We gave the value a 3.5 out of 5, as this isn’t the most expensive product but you can find cheaper options.
You can also watch BarBend’s Nick English try the chocolate whey protein powder, which he describes as “quite creamy,” in his video review below.
Read our full Legion Whey Isolate Protein Powder Review.
Best Whey Protein for Muscle Gain: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder
With 8 different flavors and 28 grams of whey protein from hormone-free, grass-fed cows, Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is an excellent way to hit your protein macros.
Specs
- Protein Per Serving: 28g
- Calories Per Serving: 120
- Key Ingredients: Grass-fed whey isolate
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Flavors: Milk Chocolate, French Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Mint Chocolate Chip, Vanilla Peanut Butter, Strawberry Milkshake, Unflavored, Dark Chocolate, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, Cinnamon French Toast, Sugar Cookie, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie, Blueberry Pancakes
- Added Sugar: Stevia extract
- Price Per Serving: $2
Pros
- You get protein and very few other macros, ideal for building muscle.
- This powder is free of artificial sweeteners, dyes, and preservatives.
- Transparent Labs lives up to its name by providing a full look at its ingredients and testing processes.
Cons
- The 15 grams of cholesterol in this mix is higher than average, especially since some competitors have no cholesterol at all.
- It doesn’t contain any creatine or other post-workout additives.
Whey isolate protein is one of the best supplements for those looking to gain muscle mass and increase muscular strength and endurance. (6) At 28 grams per serving, this powder from Transparent Labs has one of the highest doses of whey isolate protein on the market.
Whey isolate differs from whey concentrate in that it’s filtered to reduce its fat and carbohydrates while maintaining the whey’s protein concentration. As you’ll see on this list of ingredients, it contains just one gram of carbs and zero grams of fat. And if its 120 calories aren’t enough to sustain your lifts, you can always mix it with peanut butter for more heft (and a richer texture). Looking at its formulation, we rated it a 5 out of 5.
We also rated its taste and solubility a 5 out of 5, and were impressed by its thorough testing process and efforts at transparency. “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.
That transparency comes with a commitment to quality — you’ll find no artificial sweeteners, food dyes, gluten, preservatives, or added sugars here. Even without them, our tester said they felt full after drinking it in a shake.
Your wallet will take a hit, though. This formulation is one of the pricier supplements on the market at $2 per serving, earning a 3.5 out of 5 for overall value. If you’re just looking for a hit of protein, though, this one may be worth the cost.
Best Tasting Whey Protein: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
Dig into this easily digesting grass-fed whey isolate that provides 25 grams of protein with each lean 110 calorie scoop. It comes in three tasty flavors at a cost-effective price making it a solid choice for nearly anyone.
Specs
- Protein Per Serving: 25g
- Calories Per Serving: 110 to 140
- Key Ingredients: Whey protein isolate
- Third-Party Tested: No
- Third-Party Tested: No
- Flavors: Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies & Cream, Unflavored, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie
- Added Sugar: Sucralose
- Price Per Serving: $1.33
Pros
- Jacked Factory has nine bold flavors that mix smoothly and taste delicious.
- This is a lean formula with few extra macros and only 110 calories.
- You won’t find any fillers or dyes.
Cons
- This product does contain artificial flavors and sucralose, an artificial sweetener.
- It has no third-party testing process.
Considering they’re filtered to minimize carbs, fat, sugar, and fillers, whey isolate powders aren’t typically known for their flavor. With nine bold flavors that you can enjoy in smoothies or solo, Jacked Factory Authentic ISO is an exception.
“I tried the fruity cereal flavor and it really tasted like Froot Loops,” our tester said, giving the taste a 4 out of 5. “Also, the powder was white but turned red when mixed with liquid.”
Better yet, this powder delivers 25 grams of protein into each serving, which is roughly three to five grams more than many other whey isolate protein powders. It’s also packed with a handful of micronutrients, including calcium and potassium, earning a 5 out of 5 for formulation.
For solubility, we gave this product a 5 out of 5. It mixed easily and we didn’t notice any separation. However, you will want to mix with a shaker cup to get the perfect consistency.
Unfortunately, we did have to mark this powder down for third-party testing, giving it a 1 out of 5 in this category. Based off the Jacked Factory website, it doesn’t seem this powder was third-party tested.
Authentic ISO is one of the more affordable whey isolate powders at $1.33 per serving, which is roughly $0.50 to $0.70 cents cheaper than Legion and Transparent Labs’ whey isolate powders, respectively. We gave it an overall 4 out of 5 for value, as it’s pretty price-friendly, though you can still find cheaper options.
Best Whey Protein for Weight Loss: Kaged Whey Protein Isolate
Kaged Whey Protein Isolate packs 25 grams of protein per single-scoop serving and comes in five flavors: S'mores, Chocolate, Cinnamon French Toast, Vanilla, and Chocolate Peanut Butter. Each serving is 110 calories, zero of which is derived from fat or sugar.
Specs
- Protein Per Serving: 25g
- Calories Per Serving: 100 to 120
- Key Ingredients: Whey protein isolate, ProHydrolase
- Flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, S’Mores
- Added Sugar: Sucralose
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Price Per Serving: $1.36
Pros
- This one only has 110 calories per serving, an ultra-low calorie total.
- The ProHydrolase digestive enzyme blend can help enhance nutrient absorption.
- We love the flavor of this product.
Cons
- It only has four available flavors, which may deter those looking for variety.
- This supplement contains sucralose, an artificial sweetener.
Disclaimer: Please note that none of these products describe themselves as weight loss supplements and should not be taken as such. Please consult with a medical professional before beginning any weight loss protocol.
When paired with exercise and a healthy diet, whey isolate protein has been shown to help individuals lose weight while also building lean muscle. (7) Our top pick for weight loss is Kaged Whey Protein Isolate, as it only has 100-120 calories per serving, which is between 10 and 40 calories less than other protein powders.
“Kaged Whey Isolate is a lean protein powder that highlights high-quality protein and easy digestion,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. We gave this formula a 4 out of 5, as it’s high in protein (25 grams) and low in carbs (2 grams), with zero fats, sugars, and cholesterol.
Also, every scoop of Kaged Whey Protein Isolate includes ProHydrolase, an enzyme blend that research has shown can produce elevated amino acid concentrations that may allow for more efficient digestion. (8) However, Kaged does contain sucralose, which may not be ideal for all athletes.
Our tester, a certified personal trainer, did give this powder a 5 out of 5 for flavor, a bonus when you’re trying to drop pounds. “I tried the Cinnamon French Toast and it genuinely makes me think of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal. Taste-wise, it’s the best protein powder I’ve tried.” It gets a 3.5 out of 5 for solubility, though, as it did clump after mixing with liquid.
Noting that its ingredients are certified by Informed Sport, we also gave Kaged Whey Protein Isolate a 5 out of 5 in terms of its testing protocols. Kaged even earned a 4 out of 5 for overall value. The cost per serving ($1.36) definitely sits on the budget-friendly side, considering many competitors are $1.50 per serving or more.
Best Grass-Fed Whey Protein: Xwerks Grow
This formula is 100 percent New Zealand Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate with 25 grams of protein per serving. It includes no hormones, antibiotics or pesticides and comes in four delicious flavors --- Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry, and Peanut Butter.
Specs
- Protein Per Serving: 23 to 25g
- Calories Per Serving: 110
- Key Ingredients: Whey protein isolate
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Flavors: Chocolate, Peanut Butter, Strawberry, Vanilla
- Added Sugar: Stevia
- Price Per Serving: $1.96
Pros
- This whey isolate comes from grass-fed cows free from hormones and antibiotics.
- You’ll find more micronutrients — iron, vitamins A, C, and D — in this formulation than in many other whey isolates.
- It utilizes a micro-filtration process that preserves the protein’s BCAAs.
Cons
- It only has four flavors, which may impact those in need of variety.
- This is one of our more expensive picks at $1.96 per serving.
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 25 grams of protein, one gram of carbs and zero fat. “I like that Xwerks Grow is a lean protein powder, providing 25 grams of protein per scoop,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “You also get six 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 a 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.
“At $1.96 per serving, Xwerks Grow is one of the more expensive options on the market,” according to Bourgeois. “Still, you get 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 many cheaper options.
Read our full Xwerks Grow Whey Protein Review.
Best Whey Protein Isolate: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder
With 8 different flavors and 28 grams of whey protein from hormone-free, grass-fed cows, Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is an excellent way to hit your protein macros.
Specs
- Protein Per Serving: 28g
- Calories Per Serving: 120
- Key Ingredients: Grass-fed whey isolate, stevia
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Flavors: Milk Chocolate, French Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Mint Chocolate Chip, Vanilla Peanut Butter, Strawberry Milkshake, Unflavored, Dark Chocolate, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, Cinnamon French Toast, Sugar Cookie, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie, Blueberry Pancakes
- Added Sugar: Stevia extract
- Price Per Serving: $2
Pros
- This whey isolate packs 28 grams of protein sourced from grass-fed American cattle.
- Whey isolate proteins tend to digest better than other protein supplements.
- Since most of the lactate has been removed, it can be an option for those with dairy sensitivities.
Cons
- It has 15 milligrams of cholesterol, which is more than many of its competitors.
- At $2 per serving, it’s one of the pricier options on the market.
Whey isolate is a form of whey protein that has been filtered to reduce its lactose and fat content, leaving around 90 percent protein behind. This type of whey (and this pick in particular) packs a bigger, leaner dose of protein per serving than whey concentrate and tends to be digested more easily than other protein supplements.
Most whey protein isolates offer a healthy dose of protein with reduced lactose content, but Transparent Labs stands out for what it doesn’t contain as much as for what it does. We gave the formula a 5 out of 5, as there are zero fats and only one gram of carbs. That means the 120 calories in each scoop nearly all come from the large 28-gram hit of protein in each serving.
This formula does, however, contain 15 milligrams of cholesterol — competitors like Legion Whey+ and Xwerks Grow contain zero and three milligrams of cholesterol, respectively.
Transparent Labs sources its dairy from grass-fed, grass-finished cows, and runs its products through a thorough third-party testing process, earning a 5 out of 5 in this category. Our testers also loved the flavor, giving it an overall 5 out of 5 for its richness.
“I had absolutely no issues with solubility,” our tester said, giving this product a 5 out of 5 there, too. “And the brand has some pretty amazing customer service, which you won’t always get with other supplement brands.”
The only area where we dinged this product is in its price, with our tester giving it a 3.5 out of 5 in terms of value. A price of $2 per serving is a big ask, especially when it doesn’t contain any creatine or other post-workout additives. If you have the budget, however, we think it’s worth it for its protein dose.
Best Whey Protein for Bulking: Transparent Labs Mass Gainer
With nothing artificial, whey from New Zealand, a good amount of fiber, and little sugar, this mass gainer will satisfy most athletes. It's a clean mass gainer that focuses on simplicity over added bells and whistles.
Specs
- Protein: 51 to 53g
- Calories Per Serving: 730 to 750
- Key Ingredients: Grass-fed whey concentrate, creatine monohydrate
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Flavors: Sweet Vanilla, Chocolate Glazed Donut
- Added Sugar: Stevia
- Price Per Serving: $5.33
Pros
- With 750 calories per serving, this is an ideal product for bulking.
- It has no soy, added sugars, or artificial sweeteners, making it one of the cleaner mass gainers on the market.
- We liked the flavor and found it to have a nice consistency when mixed.
Cons
- You’ll find less vitamins and minerals in this blend than you will other mass gainers.
- The 1:2 protein to carb ratio may deter athletes looking for a 1:3 or 1:5 ratio.
The best mass gainer supplement for bulking 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 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)
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, luckily. 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 Sustainably-Sourced Whey Protein: Onnit Whey Protein
A grass-fed whey isolate includes added ingredients for digestion like seven digestive enzymes and a probiotic (lactobacillus acidophilus). It's also gluten-free, sugar-free, and soy-free.
Specs
- Protein Per Serving: 20g
- Calories Per Serving: 110 to 120
- Key Ingredients: Whey protein isolate, enzyme blend
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Flavors: Vanilla, Mexican Chocolate
- Added Sugar: Monk fruit extract
- Price Per Serving: $2
Pros
- For those who want sustainably-sourced protein, this product gets its whey from grass-fed Irish cows.
- Onnit includes a digestive enzyme blend to help you absorb more nutrients.
- It has no soy, gluten, or artificial sweeteners.
Cons
- Although it’s common, this product contains maltodextrin as a thickening agent.
- The label doesn’t include how much cholesterol is contained in the product.
Onnit values sustainability, sourcing the whey isolate in this protein supplement from Irish dairy cows that graze an average of 250 days per year, which meets the Animal Welfare Approved standards set by A Greener World, an organization devoted to verifying farming practices.
Depending on the flavor, each serving balances 20 grams of protein with two to two and a half grams of fat and three to four grams of carbs, which isn’t as lean or as protein-dense as whey isolate powders from Transparent Labs or Legion. It is, however, free of soy, gluten, and artificial sweeteners.
“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, 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 Budget Whey Protein: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein is a tried and true mainstay of fitness supplement programs.
Specs
- Protein Per Serving: 24g
- Calories Per Serving: 120
- Key Ingredients: Protein blend
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Flavors: Chocolate Hazelnut, Chocolate Mint, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Roll, Delicious Strawberry, Double Rich Chocolate, Extreme Milk Chocolate, French Vanilla Creme, Fruity Cereal, Mocha Cappuccino, Rocky Road, Strawberries & Cream, Strawberry Banana, Vanilla Ice Cream
- Added Sugar: Sucralose
- Price Per Serving: $1.50
Pros
- It contains a blend of whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, and hydrolyzed whey.
- It contains 5.5 grams of BCAAs, which are essential to muscle growth.
- This product is about 40 to 50 cents cheaper per serving than average protein supplements across the market.
Cons
- The texture might be too powdery for some.
- Optimum Nutrition does have some artificial sweeteners in this product.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard is not only one of the most popular protein powders on the market, it’s also one of the most affordable. At $1.50 per serving, it’s roughly 40 to 60 cents cheaper under the serving cost of top-tier whey protein products from Transparent Labs and Xwerks.
Overall, our team gave the formulation a 4.5 out of 5. One serving is about 130 calories, including four grams of cabs, one and a half grams of fat, and 24 grams of protein (these values may vary slightly by flavor).
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.
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.”
Read our full Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein Review.
Best Hydrolyzed Whey Protein: Dymatize ISO 100
Dymatize ISO 100's hydrolyzed whey absorbs faster than other forms of whey as enzymes partly break it down. Plus, this product is sweet and tastes great mixed with water.
Specs
- Protein Per Serving: 25g
- Calories Per Serving: 110 to 120
- Key Ingredients: Hydrolyzed whey protein isolate, whey protein isolate
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Flavors: Birthday Cake, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cocoa Pebbles, Cookies & Cream, Fruity Pebbles, Gourmet Chocolate, Fudge Brownie, Gourmet Vanilla
- Added Sugar: Sucralose
- Price Per Serving: $1.13
Pros
- If you want easy-to-absorb whey protein, hydrolyzed whey is typically your best bet.
- It contains 2.6 grams of leucine, an amino acid that’s key to muscle growth.
- This is one of the cheaper protein powders on the market.
Cons
- It lacks flavor and has a thin consistency when mixed with water.
- Dymatize does have some artificial sweeteners in this product.
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)
There’s three types of whey protein: concentrate, isolate, and hydrolysate. Whey concentrate typically has the highest calorie count, and can contain anywhere from 35-80 percent protein, with most products containing about 70-80 percent protein. Whey isolate has about 90 percent protein, and has fewer calories and a smaller percentage of fat and carbs. (25) Hydrolyzed whey packs the same amount of protein as whey isolate, but has been broken down by enzymes or acids — some call it “pre-digested” — so your body can process it quicker.
[Related: What’s the Best Whey: Concentrate, Isolate, Hydrolysate?]
First off, we like ISO 100 for its price. Many whey hydrolysate supplements cost roughly $1.75 to $2 per serving, making ISO 100’s $1.13 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, one gram of fat, and two grams of carbs — and lean 110-calorie count. It also has just one gram of sugar and no saturated fat or added sugars. We like its five and a half 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.”
Read our full Dymatize ISO 100 Review.
Best Organic Whey Protein: Garden of Life Grass-Fed Organic Whey
Garden of Life Raw Organic Whey Protein offers 21 grams of whey protein sourced from American Humane Certified grass-fed cows, as well as 2 billion CFU of probiotics to help aid digestion.
Specs
- Protein: 21g
- Calories Per Serving: 120-130
- Key Ingredients: Organic whey protein concentrate, 2 billion CFU of probiotic B. lactis
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
- Flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter
- Added Sugar: Stevia
- Price Per Serving: $3.18
Pros
- This is an all-natural powder made from organic ingredients and whey from grass-fed cows on organic farms.
- It’s certified USDA organic, gluten-free, and non-GMO.
- It contains a probiotic that can aid with digestion.
Cons
- At $3.18 per serving, it’s well over a dollar more expensive than many whey isolate supplements.
- This formula has more carbs and fats than many other whey isolate powders.
Those in search of the best clean protein powders will want to give Garden of Life a shot. “Garden of Life Whey Protein uses whey sourced from 100% 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.”
Where to begin? First off, this product has been certified to be USDA organic, non-GMO, kosher, and gluten-free. It’s also been certified by Informed Choice, a leading third-party supplement certification. You can also rest assured its whey comes from grass-fed, hormone-free cows, thanks to its American Humane certification.
But what about the protein? Since it 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 seven grams of carbs, two grams of fat, and 130 calories. This formulation is also infused with BCAAs, and includes B. lactis, a probiotic that can aid with digestion. (13)
“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 then it’s totally unnoticeable.”
Eating organic tends to be expensive, and this supplement is no exception. This Garden of Life powder costs $3.18 per serving, more than a dollar more than many top-tier whey isolate protein powders. But 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 one at a cheaper price.
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.”
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.
Wondering whether artificial and natural sweeteners may raise your body fat? Watch our video below.
Some of the protein powders we’ve included on this list contain no artificial sweeteners though. 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).
Does your protein timing matter for gains? Watch our video below to learn more.
Some interesting evidence suggests they might help to increase the absorption rate and reduce the risk of indigestion. (16)
How Much Does Whey Protein Powder Cost?
If you just look at the cost of the container of whey protein that you’re buying, it’s going to be hard to tell what you’re actually getting for your money. To find out how much whey protein you’re actually getting for your money, you’ll want to compare the cost of the container to the number of servings — you’ll likely find the cost per serving to be around $1 to $2, varying by brand and ingredients.
Best Whey Protein Overall | Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate | $59.99Per serving: $2 |
Best Whey Protein for Men | Jacked Factory Authentic ISO | $39.99Per serving: $1.33 |
Best Whey Protein for Women | Legion Whey+ | $44.97Per serving: $1.80 |
Best Whey Protein for Muscle Gain | Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder | $59.99Per serving: $2 |
Best Tasting Whey Protein | Jacked Factory Authentic ISO | $39.99Per serving: $1.33 |
Best Whey Protein for Weight Loss | Kaged Whey Protein Isolate | $59.99Per serving: $1.36 |
Best Grass-Fed Whey Protein | XWERKS Grow | $59Per serving: $1.96 |
Best Whey Protein Isolate | Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder | $59.99Per serving: $2 |
Best Whey Protein for Bulking | Transparent Labs Mass Gainer | $79.99Per serving: $5.33 |
Best Sustainably-Sourced Whey Protein | Onnit Whey Protein | $59.95Per serving: $2 |
Best Budget Whey Protein | Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard | $40.80Per serving: $1.50 |
Best Hydrolyzed Whey Protein | Dymatize ISO 100 | $89.09Per serving: $1.13 |
Best Organic Whey Protein | Garden of Life Grass-Fed Organic Whey | $38.25Per serving: $3.18 |
Cost is affected by the type of whey powder, additives, protein density, and other factors. The more natural, organic, or transparent your protein powder is, the more likely it is that the cost will be higher.
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. But concentrate does contain lactose. It’s not a lot but consider buying a hydrolyzed whey — which is typically easier on the stomach — if you’re really sensitive.
Watch our tester video below to get our take on some of the weirdest protein powder flavors.
[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 helps 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. (26) 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.
Can soy actually affect your hormone levels? Watch this video to learn more.
And note that if you’d rather avoid plant estrogen, you’ll also need to cut out coffee, oatmeal, apples, and a lot of other foods, too.
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)
[Related: Best Macros Calculator For Tracking Muscle Gain and Fat Loss]
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.
Benefits of Whey Protein Powder
Protein powders usually offer a higher protein concentration than food, but they may also lack other nutrients that naturally accompany proteins found in meat, fish, dairy, and whole grains.
Protein from food offers vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, and healthy fats often unavailable in protein powder. We would never recommend that you take protein powder as a complete protein substitute — just a dietary supplement.
There’s plenty of debate among bodybuilders and strength athletes alike about whether a post-workout supplement significantly improves recovery and muscle growth.
Some research suggests that taking a protein shake after you work out might be better for muscle gain than whole foods. A study published in Physiological Reports suggests that taking 40 grams of whey protein is better than 20 grams, so maybe you should have two protein shakes. (21)
Another study suggests pre-workout protein offers the same effects as post-workout protein. (22) As for the type of protein you should consume, does it have to be whey? 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.”
Leucine is linked with muscle protein synthesis, and whey is super high in leucine. (23)(24)
Watch our video below to learn exactly how much protein you need each day to reap all the whey protein benefits.
If you’re regularly engaging in strenuous exercise, you need to calculate your macros and consume a relatively large amount of protein (and calories overall) to build muscle, recover properly, and get stronger for the next workout. Whey is a fantastic way to help with that.
Final Word
There are a variety of protein types on the market, and each has its 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 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
What is whey protein powder?
There are two types of protein in milk: whey and casein. The two get separated in the cheesemaking process, and while whey used to be considered something of a waste byproduct, it’s a very high quality protein that can be processed into powder. Usually, flavorings are added to make for a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to consume protein.
What's the difference between whey concentrate vs isolate?
Whey concentrate is the least processed kind of whey protein powder, so it has the most carbohydrates and fat. (About three grams each per 20-25 grams of protein.) Whey isolate is further processed in a way that reduces most of the carbs and fat. Some whey isolates contain no carbs or fat whatsoever. This makes it more diets that severely restrict carbohydrates and/or fat, though the taste does suffer somewhat.
What is the best whey protein powder?
There are so many amazing protein supplements on the market, but after testing several types of protein, we think Transparent Labs Whey Isolate is the best overall whey protein powder. The macro split of 28g of protein, zero grams of fat, and only one gram of carbs makes it a top choice for getting a solid dose of protein while keeping other macros low. It contains whey isolate, which may digest more quickly and prevent bloating, and comes in five delicious flavors, too.
References
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- Sharma, J. K., Turner, M. E., Paynter, A. S., Norman, P. A., White, C. A., Ward, E. C., Adams, M. A., & Holden, R. M. Serum total testosterone is associated with phosphate and calcium excretion in response to oral phosphate loading in healthy middle-aged males. Andrology. https://doi.org/10.1111/andr.13607
- Suárez L, Bilal U, Bordallo J, Cantabrana B, Sánchez M. Androgens block outward potassium currents and decrease spontaneous action potentials in GH3 cells. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol. 2015;388(1):67-78. doi:10.1007/s00210-014-1057-2
- Jackman, S. R., Witard, O. C., Philp, A., Wallis, G. 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, 8:390. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00390
- McPhee C, Aninye IO, Horan L. Recommendations for Improving Women’s Bone Health Throughout the Lifespan. J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2022;31(12):1671-1676. doi:10.1089/jwh.2022.0361
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- Sepandi, M., Samadi, M., Shirvani, H., Alimohamadi, Y., Taghdir, M., Goudarzi, F., Akbarzadeh, I. (2022). Effect of whey protein supplementation on weight and body composition indicators: A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Clinical Nutrition ESPEN, 50, 74-83.
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