Protein is among the most widely used supplements for muscle gain, and for good reason. While it’s much easier to hit your daily requirements for carbs and fat, many athletes struggle to consume enough protein to build muscle. And with so many types of protein on the market, including whey, casein, and plant-based proteins, finding the best protein powder for your needs and dietary preferences has never been simpler.
To ensure you’re finding the best protein powder for muscle gain, our team of experts tested more than 100 different products. We’ve considered various fitness goals and preferences to gather a diverse list, so there’s truly something for every athlete.
The Best Protein Powders for Muscle Gain
- Best Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein
- Best Protein Powder for Men’s Muscle Gain: Xwerks Grow
- Best-Tasting Protein Powder for Men’s Muscle Gain: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
- Best Mass Gainer Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: Transparent Labs Mass Gainer
- Best Protein Powder for Women’s Muscle Gain: Gainful Protein
- Best-Digesting Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: Onnit Grass-Fed Whey Isolate
- Best Budget Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: Nutricost Whey Protein Powder
- Best Natural Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: Legion Whey+
- Best Whey Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: Momentous Whey Protein Isolate
- Best Casein Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Casein
- Best Hydrolyzed Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: Dymatize Iso 100
Best Protein Powders for Muscle Gain Video Review
Below, former BarBend editor Nick English breaks down a few of his favorite protein powders for muscle gain.
Best Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein
Transparent Labs has made one of the most straightforward protein supplements we've ever seen. It's just grass-fed whey isolate, natural flavor, salt, and stevia, making this one a great option for people who want a protein supplement with no additives.
Specs
- Protein Type: Grass-fed whey isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 28g
- Flavors Available: Milk Chocolate, French Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Vanilla Peanut Butter, Strawberry Milkshake, Unflavored, Dark Chocolate, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie, Cinnamon French Toast, Sugar Cookie, Mint Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter, Mocha, Blueberry Pancakes
- Price Per Serving: $1.99
- Third-Party Testing: Yes (Informed Choice, Informed Protein)
A good protein powder should prioritize high protein content to support your muscle growth goals, contain no fillers, and be easy to digest — Transparent Labs’ whey isolate protein powder checks all of these boxes. Pound for pound, it’s one of the best whey isolates we’ve tested. “Aiming for muscle growth doesn’t have to mean gaining fat, and oftentimes it probably shouldn’t. Sticking to a formulation like this one (which is almost all pure protein) that doesn’t promote mass gains may be a more healthful approach for many people,” explains Dr. Jennie Stanford, M.D., FAAFP, DipABOM.
Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate prioritizes muscle gain with its 28 grams of whey isolate protein per serving. “While the formulation varies slightly between flavors, the core formula remains the same,” says BarBend expert reviewer Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, a registered dietitian nutritionist. “Based on the amount of whey protein, Himalayan rock salt, stevia, and natural flavors, Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate scores a 4.5 out of 5 for its formulation.”
Our team tried the seasonal Peppermint Hot Chocolate and absolutely loved the flavor. “The taste was exactly as described,” our tester, a certified personal trainer, says, giving the flavor a 5 out of 5. “All I needed was some marshmallows and it was just like real hot chocolate.” While this flavor isn’t available right now (but keep your eyes peeled), we also love the Milk Chocolate.
We also give the overall solubility a 5 out of 5, considering we’ve had zero issues with floaties or clumps — no one likes floaties when you’re trying to sip a protein shake. We mixed ours in a shaker bottle and it separated perfectly fine.
Then, we worked with an accredited, third-party lab to test more than 150 protein powders for accuracy and purity. Transparent Labs lands in the top 25% overall, earning a B. See our results below.
BarBend worked with an accredited lab to gather testing data on heavy metal content in Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate.
When it comes to price, Transparent Labs isn’t the cheapest, but it’s not crazy pricey, either. The $1.99 per serving ($59.99 for a container of 30 servings) is pretty standard. However, for those who are shopping on a budget, you can find options that are less than $1.50 per serving. So, we give the product an overall 3.5 out of 5 for value.
Read our full Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder Review.
Best Protein Powder for Men’s Muscle Gain: 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 Type: 100% grass-fed whey isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 23-25g
- Flavors Available: Chocolate, Vanilla, Peanut Butter, Strawberry
- Price Per Serving: $1.97
- Third-Party Testing: No
Protein powders aren’t really a gender-specific supplement. That being said, Xwerks Grow can make a good fit for male athletes (or athletes of any gender) looking to grow muscle. Grow’s formula consists only of New Zealand grass-fed whey protein, which has some of the strictest and highest standards for dairy quality. So, you won’t get any hormones, antibiotics, or pesticides in your whey protein. Plus, this one is third-party tested, so you can trust you’re getting what the label says. (1)
“XWERKS Grow scores a 4.5 out of 5 for its formulation, with high marks for its protein content and natural sweeteners,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, our expert reviewer. One serving is only 110 calories (one of the lowest on this list), consisting of 25 grams of protein, only 1 to 2 grams of carbs, and 0 to 2 grams of fat (depending on the flavor). So, if building strength is the priority, you’ll like this protein-focused formula.
Xwerks uses natural flavorings and Stevia as a sweetener, so the taste is hard to match. (2) “The Chocolate actually tastes like chocolate milk,” explains our tester, who is also a certified personal trainer, giving the flavor a 5 out of 5. “This is probably the best protein powder I’ve ever sipped. It doesn’t taste artificial.”
Plus, we have to give the product a 5 out of 5 for solubility, too. “I had no problems mixing this product,” our tester says. “This protein is so fine and smooth, you barely even need a blender ball.” Don’t expect to see any chunks or clumps with this protein.
Xwerks may sound too good to be true. Well, that’s not exactly the case, but unfortunately, high quality comes at a price. We had to give this whey a 3.5 out of 5 for price per serving, considering it’s nearly $2 per scoop. For some, the $59 price tag may be too much to pay each month. But if you can afford it, you won’t be disappointed.
Read our full Xwerks Grow Whey Protein Review.
Best-Tasting Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: 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 Type: Grass-fed whey isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 25g
- Flavors Available: Blueberry Muffin, Cinnamon French Toast, Cookies & Cream, Peanut Butter, Vanilla, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie, Chocolate, Snickerdoodle, Salted Caramel, Fruity Cereal Splash, Unflavored
- Price Per Serving: $1.33
- Third-Party Testing: No
While it can be difficult to consistently hit your allotted daily protein goal, it doesn’t have to be flavorless. When it comes to the best-tasting protein powder, Jacked Factory Authentic ISO has you covered. After all, the more delicious it is, the more likely you are to remember your shake and (therefore), start making some much-desired muscle gain.
“I’ve had the Fruity Cereal Splash flavor, and it actually tastes like Fruit Loops,” says our tester, a certified personal trainer, giving the taste an overall 4 out of 5. “It had a little bit of a medicinal aftertaste, though. Not enough to dissuade me from buying, but may be good to know for some buyers.”
“Jacked Factory Authentic ISO earns a 4.25 out of 5 for its formulation with deductions for its sodium content and lack of third-party testing,” Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, says. In one scoop, you get 25 grams of protein per serving (the exact macros may vary by a gram or two, depending on the flavor), with only 1 gram of carbs and 0.5 gram of fat.
We also liked that it mixed smoothly, earning a 5 out of 5 for solubility. Our testers have no issues mixing the powder and haven’t noticed any clumps at the bottom of their shaker cup.
Jacked Factory offers eleven flavors, including the standards like Vanilla, Chocolate, and Unflavored. But you also get some unique options, like Blueberry Muffin, Cinnamon French Toast, and Fruity Cereal Splash. Given the variety, there’s definitely something for everyone.
We were also big fans of the price point, giving it an overall 4 out of 5 for price per serving. One 30-serving container costs $39.99, which is about $1.33 per serving. This is among the cheaper products, but for those on a tight budget, there are less expensive options.
Also, we worked with an accredited, third-party lab to test more than 150 protein powders for accuracy and purity. Jacked Factory lands in the top 50% overall, earning a C. See our results below.
BarBend worked with a third-party accredited lab to test Jacked Factory Authentic Protein. We looked at the product’s metal content, bisphenol content, and more.
While our testers haven’t noticed any negative side effects after drinking a scoop, Jacked Factory does sweeten this powder with sucralose. Artificial sweeteners can cause digestive unrest for some, so it may not be the best pick for every athlete. (3)
Read our full Jacked Factory Authentic ISO Review.
Best Mass Gainer Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: 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 Type: Grass-fed whey concentrate
- Protein per Serving: 51-53g
- Flavors Available: Chocolate Glaze Donut, Sweet Vanilla
- Price per Serving: $5.33
- Third-Party Testing: Yes (Informed Choice)
In order to build significant muscle mass, you need to eat in a caloric surplus. But it can be tough to up your calories if you’re already eating plenty of solid foods. Transparent Labs’ Mass Gainer, one of the best mass gainer supplements we’ve tested, can help make this process a little easier.
With 730 to 750 calories per serving (13 to 14 grams of fat, 106 to 110 grams of carbs, and 51 to 53 grams of protein), this mass gainer can help add some serious calories to your daily diet, earning an overall 4.5 out of 5 from our product testers. The macronutrients are balanced, giving your body what it needs to repair and build muscle mass.
“Transparent Labs Mass Gainer scores a 4.25 out of 5 for its formulation,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “It accomplishes exactly what it’s intended to accomplish and the ingredients list is very transparent. However, the sodium and saturated fat content is quite high.”
Although you only get two flavor options (Sweet Vanilla and Chocolate Glaze Donut), we think the taste is pretty accurate. Our product tester and certified personal trainer tried the Chocolate Glaze Donut flavor and reports: “I thought it really tasted like a chocolate donut — the flavor was accurate.” But considering there was so little variety, we have to give the flavor an overall 4 out of 5.
But for solubility, this mass gainer earns a 5 out of 5. “It dissolved smoothly with no clumping at the bottom of my shaker bottle,” our tester says. “The consistency was also smooth with no chalky or gritty taste.”
While the price per serving is a lot higher than the other supplements on the list, it’s actually pretty on par with other mass gainers on the market. One 15-serving container costs $79.99, making it about $5.33 per serving. This costs a pretty penny, but considering how many calories you get per serving, think of it like paying for a small meal — however, considering it doesn’t have added vitamins and minerals, it shouldn’t actually serve as a meal replacement.
Transparent Labs created a mass gainer with strength gain at the forefront. With high macros across the board, this formula is here to support you in your quest for muscle growth.
Read our full Transparent Labs Mass Gainer Review.
Best Protein Powder for Women’s Muscle Gain: Gainful Protein
Gainful Protein Powder is fully customizable, allowing you to get a product that meets your specific health needs, including losing weight, gaining weight, or building muscle.
Specs
- Protein Type: Whey, plant-based, low-lactose, or ketogenic protein
- Protein Per Serving: 19-26g
- Flavors: Unflavored, Strawberry Cream, Madagascar Vanilla, Rich Chocolate, Caffè Mocha, Cookies & Cream, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Toast, Sea Salt Caramel
- Price Per Serving: Starting at $3.21
- Third-Party Testing: No
Studies have shown that a high-protein diet is preferable to one low in protein for women hoping to build fat-free mass in a resistance-training program. (4) Supplementing with a protein powder, then, can be an effective way for women (and likely, people across the gender spectrum) to maximize their training and build strength. We like Gainful for these goals, as the company allows you to customize your supplement with muscle growth in mind.
“The minimal ingredients make this an intriguing formula, but I think it misses the mark just a bit for those trying to create a personalized formula based on health or fitness goals,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, who gives the formula a 4 out of 5. “Those looking to gain weight, especially, may be left wanting for more than this protein powder offers.”
On Gainful’s site, choose between three different “goal boosts” — Lose Weight, Gain Weight, Build Muscle — and four different types of protein that cater to different diets and tastes. See them below.
- Whey-based: Made with whey concentrate and whey isolate (5)
- Plant-based: Vegetarian- and vegan-friendly with organic pea protein and organic brown rice protein. “Increasing evidence suggests that like animal protein, plant protein can also be effective in promoting increases in lean body mass,” says Dr. Jennie Stanford, M.D., FAAFP, DipABOM. (6)
- Low-lactose whey: 98% lactose-free with ultra-filtered whey protein isolate and, per the brand, “fast-absorbing carbohydrates” (7)
- Ketogenic: Made with ultra-filtered whey protein isolate and MCTs.
Based on your choice, your customized powder will contain between 19 and 26 grams of protein and 110 to 140 calories. They’re available unflavored, but you can also add on individual flavor boosts, such as Strawberry Cream and Madagascar Vanilla.
“Gainful definitely doesn’t make budget supplements, but the customization makes it a solid option for those with dietary restrictions,” says our tester, a personal trainer, while noting that the cost of this supp is more than double that of many budget protein powders.
Still, they score a 4 out of 5, noting the unique customization options, high-quality ingredients, and delicious flavors. “I really enjoyed how the packs let you control how much or little flavor you want to add in each shake,” says our tester, a personal trainer. “I tried most of them and even mixed a few, which was fun. I even dug the Sea Salt Caramel flavor, which is not usually a favorite.”
Taste scores a 5 out of 5, though you should note that the flavor packs will add around 6 to 10 extra calories. They also include organic tapioca maltodextrin, organic monk fruit, and organic stevia, which may lead to gastrointestinal distress for some users. (8)
While we enjoy this Gainful profile, we do wish it was clear whether or not Gainful puts their products through third-party testing, thus resulting in a 2 out of 5 for the category. We also got a whole lot of clumps when mixing it with milk in a shaker. “Didn’t love that, but the flavor was spot on,” our tester says, recommending you mix this one with a blender.
[Related: Best Protein Powders for Women]
Best-Digesting Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: Onnit Grass-Fed Whey Isolate
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 Type: Grass-fed whey isolate
- Protein per Serving: 20g
- Flavors Available: Mexican Chocolate, Vanilla
- Price per Serving: $1.99
- Third-Party Testing: No
While most adults can pretty easily digest protein powder, that’s not the case for everyone. Luckily, Onnit’s Grass-Fed Whey Isolate Protein includes digestive enzymes and probiotics to help ease stomach discomfort. (9) “Onnit Whey Protein scores a 4.5 out of 5 for its formula, in my opinion,” according to BarBend expert reviewer Chelsea Rae Bourgeois. “The macro ratio is on point for its goals, and the enzyme blend is intriguing.”
Our testers have tried the Mexican Chocolate and are actually pretty impressed by the flavor. “I thought the flavor tasted pretty good,” one tester says, giving the taste a 3.75 out of 5. “I can actually tell the difference between this flavor and standard chocolate.”
However, we aren’t huge fans of the texture. It was actually a little too thin for our preference. That being said, we give the solubility a 5 out of 5. This powder dissolves really well and our product tester noticed zero clumps or floaties in their shaker cup.
We haven’t noticed any negative side effects while sipping this supplement, which is a huge plus (probably thanks to the digestive enzymes). However, we aren’t able to find any information on third-party testing for this product. We had to give Onnit a 1 out of 5 in that category and wish the brand had some lab certifications.
While we like the ingredients in this formula, it isn’t the most cost-friendly protein powder. One 30-serving container costs $59.95, which is about $1.99 per serving. We had to give this product a 2 out of 5 for cost per serving, as you can definitely find some more cost-friendly options.
Read our full Onnit Grass-Fed Whey Isolate Review.
Best Budget Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: Nutricost Whey Protein Isolate
Need a protein powder that’s light on cost yet heavy on flavor? Available in four traditional tastes — Chocolate Peanut Butter, Chocolate, Strawberry Milkshake, and Vanilla — this Nutricost offering is available for less than $1 per serving, which can be ideal for athletes looking to build a well-rounded supplement regimen on a budget.
Specs
- Protein Type: Whey protein isolate
- Protein per Serving: 30g
- Flavors Available: Unflavored, Chocolate, Mocha, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Milkshake, Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cake Batter, Strawberry Acai, Cookies and Cream
- Price per Serving: $1.90
- Third-Party Testing: Yes
You don’t have to spend $70 a month on protein to get an effective, high-quality protein powder for building muscle. If you’re bulking on a budget, we think Nutricost Whey Protein Isolate is a great protein powder with plenty of flavor options for only $1.52 per serving when you subscribe to recurring deliveries.
Nutricost has several size options, including a 2-pound and 5-pound container. The larger the size you buy, the more money you save. We decided to take a closer look at the 5-pound option. This container costs $117.95 for 62 servings and when you subscribe, you only pay $94.36 for the container. Considering the manageable price point and delivery convenience, we give the cost a 4 out of 5.
This has only 140 calories per serving, including 0.5 gram of fat, 1 gram of carbs, and 30 grams of protein. “I’d score this formula a 3.5 out of 5,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, our expert reviewer. “It has room for improvement with the sweeteners used and third-party testing.” Nutricost has since labeled their packaging as third-party testing but doesn’t offer many specifics.
You do get plenty of flavors, though, which is a bonus. Nutricost offers their protein in 10 different options, including some more unique flavors like Strawberry Acai and Cake Batter. After trying the Chocolate Peanut Butter, our tester gives the flavor a 5 out of 5. “I’m not the biggest peanut butter fan but this one was great,” they say. “It wasn’t too powerful, and the peanut butter isn’t stronger than the chocolate.”
Even in just a shaker cup, this formula dissolves pretty well, according to our testers. We haven’t noticed any big clumps or settling, so our team rates the solubility a 5 out of 5. Plus, the texture is pretty pleasing, especially when mixed with milk.
Read our full Nutricost Whey Protein Concetrate Review.
Best Natural Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: 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 Type: Grass-fed whey isolate
- Protein per Serving: 21-23g
- Flavors Available: Chocolate Peanut Butter, Dutch Chocolate, French Vanilla, Unflavored, Chocolate Hazelnut, Cookies & Cream, Mocha Cappuccino, Strawberry Banana, Mint Chocolate, Banana Bread, Birthday Cake, Salted Caramel, Cinnamon Cereal, Apple Pie, Cocoa Cereal, Fruity Cereal, Honey Cereal
- Price per Serving: $1.99
- Third-Party Testing: Yes (Labdoor)
For athletes who want to prioritize all-natural ingredients in their muscle-building supplements, Legion is the ideal brand. This product, one of the best organic protein powders we’ve tested, uses only natural ingredients with no artificial sweeteners, flavors, food dyes, or fillers. (10) Plus, the whey is made with milk from grass-fed and pasture-raised cows.
This supplement is relatively lean, with only 100 to 130 calories per serving, including up to 23 grams of protein, 0 to 3 grams of fat, and 2 to 4 grams of carbs (flavor depending). However, many of the other products on this list contain a little more protein (usually 25 to 28 grams), which may be a turnoff for some athletes.
“Legion Whey+ scores a 4.75 out of 5 for its formula,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, our expert reviewer. “It’s not the most protein-dense protein powder, but its macro ratios and ingredient sources are impressive.”
Legion delivers on flavor, too, earning a 4.5 out of 5 from our product tester, who also has his personal training certification. “The Cinnamon Cereal tastes just like a bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch,” our tester says. “However, I wish it were a little more pungent. The flavor is definitely accurate, but I wish it were a tiny bit richer, like the cereal.” This whey also earns a 5 out of 5 for solubility, as our tester didn’t notice any clumps.
Unlike many other whey supplements, Legion’s whey is third-party tested. It’s certified to contain no banned substances by Labdoor, so what you read on the label is what you’re getting. We also worked with an accredited, third-party lab to test more than 150 protein powders for accuracy and purity. Legion landed in the top 50% overall, earning a C. See our results below.
BarBend worked with an accredited lab to gather testing data on the overall purity of Legion Whey+ protein powder.
All these benefits come at a cost. We had to give this protein a 3.5 out of 5 for the price per serving. At $1.99 per scoop, this is among the more expensive protein powders on the market. For many shoppers, paying $59.99 for a 30-serving container every month may be unrealistic.
Read our full Legion Whey Review.
Best Whey Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: Momentous Whey Protein Isolate
This whey isolate from Momentous offers 20 grams of protein with only 100 calories per serving. In addition to the protein, there's also 90mg of calcium and 115mg of potassium, as well as an enzyme blend to help aid digestion.
Specs
- Protein Type: Whey protein isolate
- Protein per Serving: 23g
- Flavors Available: Unflavored, Vanilla, Chocolate
- Price per Serving: $2.70
- Third-Party Testing: Yes (NSF, Informed Sport)
Whey is one of the best protein supplements for muscle gain to keep in your cabinet. Momentous Whey Protein Isolate is sourced from grass-fed cows and undergoes a micro-processing filtration, which may help sustain the protein’s amino acid profile. In short, Momentous makes a high-quality whey.
When it comes to formulation, our RDN gave this formula a 4.25 out of 5 with deductions for its cost per serving and the presence of proprietary blends. Offering only 100 calories per serving, including 3 grams of carbs and 23 grams of protein, this is a pretty lean and simple formula. But Momentous does include ProHydrolase, a digestive enzyme blend to prevent bloating and digestion difficulty. (11)
After giving this protein a try, our tester, who is also a certified personal trainer, thinks the formula was incredibly smooth and easy to sip, giving the taste a 4 out of 5. “The chocolate tastes a lot like hot chocolate without needing to mix it with milk,” our tester says. “I’d definitely buy this flavor again.” However, we do wish Momentous offered more flavors, as they only have Vanilla, Chocolate, and Unflavored.
We also gave this supplement a 5 out of 5 for solubility. “I actually mixed a double dose (two scoops) with water, and I didn’t notice any floaties or clumps,” our tester says. “The formula is very smooth, and there’s no grittiness.”
Also, we worked with an accredited, third-party lab to test more than 150 protein powders for accuracy and purity. Momentous landed in the top 50% overall, earning a C. See our results below.
BarBend worked with an independent accredited lab to examine the purity and label accuracy of Momentous Whey Isolate protein.
There’s one pretty inevitable downside to this product: “It’s incredibly expensive,” our tester says. “The flavor is fantastic, and it’s a high-quality product with third-party testing, but the price tag is probably too much for most buyers.” Given the high cost ($2.70 per serving or $64.95 for 24 servings), we have to give Momentous Whey a 1 out of 5 for price per serving. But if you can afford it, we think it’s a great, high-end option.
Best Casein Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Casein
Well-rounded, well-priced casein that contains enzymes that might improve its digestion. Each single-scoop serving packs 24 grams of protein and just a single gram of sugar.
Specs
- Protein Type: 100% casein protein
- Protein per Serving: 24g
- Flavors Available: Chocolate Peanut Butter, Chocolate Supreme, Cookies & Cream, Creamy Vanilla
- Price per Serving: $2.15
- Third-Party Testing: No
Both whey and casein protein come from milk, but they’re absorbed differently. Your body absorbs and digests casein powders more slowly, meaning you get a slower release of amino acids compared to whey. That’s why casein is ideal to drink before bed — it helps promote muscle gain during recovery. This supplement from Optimum Nutrition is one of the best casein protein powders we’ve tested.
“Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Casein scores 4.25 out of 5,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, our expert reviewer. “[It gets] high marks for its lean macro ratio and high zinc content.” This product only has 120 calories per serving with 4 grams of carbs, 1 gram of fat, and 24 grams of protein. This also contains 40% of your daily calcium value, which is more than most whey protein powders — also ideal if you don’t get enough calcium in your daily diet. (12)
Our tester also gives the flavor a 5 out of 5 after trying both the Chocolate Peanut Butter and Chocolate Supreme. “I loved both of these flavors. They’re both smooth and rich,” they say. “I’d honestly say the Chocolate Supreme is practically as good as chocolate pudding.”
Unlike whey, which dissolves in liquid, casein gets pretty thick, according to our tester, who gives it a 4.5 out of 5 for solubility. “I like to mix my casein into food or make protein pudding,” our tester says. “It mixes well, but it doesn’t dissolve.” So, if you prefer to drink your protein in a shaker, you may want to opt for whey.
We do like that this product is third-party tested and Informed Sport-certified. But, we had to give it a 2 out of 5 for price per serving. At about $2.15 per serving ($53.99 for a 25-serving container), it’s one of the pricier proteins on this list. Although casein is great for those who want a high-protein snack before bed, there are cheaper whey supplements that can help promote muscle gain, too.
Read our full Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Casein Review.
Best Hydrolyzed Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: 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 Type: Hydrolyzed whey protein, whey protein isolate
- Protein per Serving: 25g
- Flavors Available: Birthday Cake, Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cocoa Pebbles, Cookies & Cream, Dunkin’ Cappuccino, Dunkin’ Mocha Latte, Fruity Pebbles, Fudge Brownie, Strawberry, Vanilla
- Price per Serving: $1.67
- Third-Party Testing: Yes (Informed Choice)
Dymatize ISO 100 is a hydrolyzed protein powder, meaning that it is broken down from an isolate into a form that is even more rapidly digestible by the body. This form of protein is 95% protein by weight, which leaves a low carb, fat, and lactose content, making it a potentially better protein option for those looking to build muscle without adding many fats and carbs to their diet. (13)
“Dymatize ISO 100 scores 4 out of 5 for its formulation,” Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, our expert reviewer, says. “It provides 25 grams of protein and not much else, which is good for those who want to boost their protein intake.” We do want to note, however, that the specific macros vary slightly between flavors, so be sure to double-check the ingredient label if you’re keeping close track of your daily intake.
While Dymatize does offer a variety of unique flavors, our tester gives the Cocoa Pebbles a 3.5 out of 5. “There’s nothing too special about the flavor. It’s definitely not the worst I’ve ever tasted, but there are better-tasting options,” our tester says. “The Cocoa Pebbles flavor isn’t much tastier than other chocolate-flavored protein powders. I’d recommend mixing it with milk.”
After mixing in a shaker bottle, our tester didn’t notice any clumps, giving it a 4 out of 5 for solubility. “It mixes pretty thin, though, which I don’t love for chocolate protein,” they say. “I love drinking chocolate milk, but this is more like chocolate water.”
We also worked with an accredited, third-party lab to test more than 150 protein powders for accuracy and purity. Dymatize lands in the top 10% overall, earning an A. See our results below.
This Gourmet Vanilla variety of Dymatize ISO 100 Hydrolyzed Whey earned an overall A grade for purity and label transparency from our independent accredited lab.
The price isn’t as high as some products on the market, but there are definitely cheaper options. We gave the price per serving a 3.25 out of 5, considering the $1.67 per serve price tag. One container is about $33.43 for 20 servings, which is less product than most other brands offer. However, you can subscribe to monthly deliveries for $31.76.
Our tester did give this product a 5 out of 5 for side effects, though. Hydrolyzed whey has very little lactose, which means you probably won’t experience any bloating or digestive trouble. (13)
Read our full Dymatize ISO 100 Review.
How We Tested and Chose the Best Protein Powders for Muscle Gain
We gave more than 100 protein powders a try in our testing lab to get a well-rounded idea of all the products on the market. Using the BarBend supplement testing methodology, we scored each product on a scale of 1 (boo) to 5 (yay) in areas such as taste, solubility, and formulation. Below are some of the key factors we considered when making our picks.
- Formula: Different products have different macro breakdowns and ingredient labels. In our search for the best protein powders for muscle gain, we prioritized products with high protein content and relatively low fat and carb totals.
- Side Effects: Some people may experience digestive discomfort after drinking a full glass of even the best whey protein powder. Our testers kept an eye on any unwanted side effects they experienced in the minutes and hours after sipping.
- Flavor: We tried the most popular flavors of different protein powders, mixed with water in a shaker bottle, to get a good idea of the flavor quality. People have different flavor preferences, so we included brands that offer a variety.
- Solubility: Considering most folks prepare their protein with a shaker bottle, we did the same thing in our testing lab.
- Third-Party Testing: Our team puts a premium on options that have been third-party tested to help ensure readers they’re getting safe products with accurate labels. Also, BarBend worked with an accredited third-party lab to test our favorite products for purity. We’ve recorded the results of each product we tested to give you a good look at different products on the market.
Benefits of Protein Powders for Muscle Gain
If you hit the gym consistently, you’ve likely seen someone drinking a protein supplement from a shaker bottle. “You may find that the biggest benefit of using protein powder is the ability to meet your protein needs quickly and easily,” Samina Qureshi, a registered dietitian nutritionist, tells BarBend. “You can add protein powder to your smoothies, make a quick shake, add it to your baked goods, and more!” Read on to learn some of the many benefits of protein powder.
- May Promote Muscle: Combined with resistance exercise, protein supplementation may help kickstart muscle repair and recovery. The faster you can repair those fibers and make them stronger, the more lean muscle you can build. (14)
- May Improve Cardio: Protein supplementation may accelerate gains in not only muscle mass but aerobic capacity too. (15)
- It’s Convenient: Powder is easy to take on-the-go to increase your daily protein intake — all you need is some water and a shaker bottle. So, keeping a scoop of protein in your gym bag can be a quick way to increase your daily protein.
- It’s Versatile: Protein powder makes it really easy to add protein to plenty of foods or desserts that generally aren’t a great source of protein.
[Related: Best Creatine Supplements]
How Much Do Protein Powders for Muscle Gain Cost?
Protein powders have a fairly narrow range of prices, especially when discussing high-quality protein powders — like we have on this list. Generally, protein powders feel expensive up front but end up being a reasonably cost-effective way of adding more protein to your diet when you’re trying to gain muscle.
| Best Protein Powder for Muscle Gain | Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein | $2 per serving |
| Best Protein Powder for Men’s Muscle Gain | Xwerks Grow | $1.97 per serving |
| Best-Tasting Protein Powder for Muscle Gain | Jacked Factory Authentic ISO | $1.33 per serving |
| Best Mass Gainer Protein for Muscle Gain | Transparent Labs Mass Gainer | $5.33 per serving |
| Best Protein Powder for Women’s Muscle Gain | Gainful | $3.21 per serving |
| Best-Digesting Protein Powder for Muscle Gain | Onnit Grass-Fed Whey Isolate | $1.99 per serving |
| Best Budget Protein Powder for Muscle Gain | Nutricost Whey Protein Isolate | $1.90 per serving |
| Best Natural Protein Powder for Muscle Gain | Legion Whey+ | $2 per serving |
| Best Whey Protein Powder for Muscle Gain | Momentous Whey Protein | $2.70 per serving |
| Best Casein Protein Powder for Muscle Gain | Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Casein | $2.15 per serving |
| Best Hydrolyzed Protein Powder for Muscle Gain | Dymatize ISO 100 | $1.36 per serving |
What to Consider Before Buying Protein Powder for Muscle Gain
When you target muscle gains, there can be many factors to consider. Being realistic with your goals and considering dosage, type of protein, additional ingredients, and price are all things to think about when you’re purchasing any supplement.
Be Realistic
It’s important to be realistic when it comes to supplements for muscle gain or bodybuilding. Even the best protein shakes won’t yield muscular results without resistance training. That said, proper nutrition and supplementation are also extremely important factors.
If you’re working out and not getting the proper amount of macronutrients, it can mean a loss of muscle mass. For example, carbs are the main source of energy in the body. If you don’t have proper glycogen stores, your body will use muscle in order to attain the energy it needs to utilize, and it will take a toll on muscle gains overall. (16)
Dosage
Depending on what your goals are, you want to consider dosages of protein in your powder, as well as other macros. You may want a protein powder that delivers a high protein content while keeping carbs and fats low if you’re cutting, just looking for a solid protein snack, or you prefer eating your carbs and fats rather than drinking them. If you’re bulking, you may want a higher macronutrient profile all around.
Type of Protein
This list contains a wide variety of proteins, like whey concentrate, whey isolate, hydrolyzed whey, pumpkin seed protein, and pea protein. Depending on your lifestyle choices, dietary preferences, and needs, there may be one that is better suited for your goals than the others.
Scooping supplement into water.
Some people find that plant-based proteins are better on their stomach if they have issues digesting lactose, or if they choose a plant-based lifestyle. Hydrolyzed whey is another good option for those who have stomach issues, as the process to hydrolyze whey cuts the proteins into a more easily digestible form. Each type of protein will have pros and cons to them, so take some time to figure out what makes the most sense for you.
Additional Ingredients
Your diet needs may be different during different phases of fitness or your life, and it’s important to factor in the additional ingredients listed in each formula. For example, if you’re looking to avoid artificial sweeteners, flavors, or ingredients there will be some powders on this list that won’t fit your needs.
If you want a protein that also contains BCAAs for recovery, you will want to opt for a formula that includes a solid dosage of them in their ingredient list. 24) All the formulas in these proteins vary, so we suggest reading each label and ingredient list thoroughly before making a purchase.
Price
Price can be an important factor when it comes to buying supplements. The formulas will vary by ingredients, quality, serving size, and formulation. This means that the price of each product will vary equally. If you’re opting for straight protein, and you don’t care much about the extra bells and whistles, you’ll potentially pay less per serving than you would for a formula that contains some extras, like BCAAs, or even one that has an all-natural formula.
Types of Protein
“There are a variety of different protein powders, including whey, casein, hemp, brown rice, and pea protein; the list goes on,” Samina Qureshi, a registered dietitian nutritionist, tells BarBend. Below, we dig into each type a little deeper.
- Whey Protein: Whey contains eight various proteins that are found in milk, including lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, and immunoglobulins. (17) These proteins are then treated to become various types of whey protein (concentrate, isolate, or hydrolyzed).
- Whey Concentrate: A whey concentrate is usually 30% and 89% protein by weight, and it can be less expensive per serving. (18) This also means it generally has a bit higher carb and fat content than an isolate, although it may be relatively low still.
- Whey Isolate: Whey isolate is a form of whey protein that is low in lactose and, therefore, might be a better option for those with lactose intolerance. (18) It is always best to check with your healthcare professional before adding this to your supplement stack.
- Whey Hydrolysate: Whey hydrolysate has been shown in studies to reduce exercise-induced muscle damage and may be beneficial for muscle gains due to better recovery time and high protein content. (9)
- Vegan Protein: Many people opt for one of the best vegan protein powders as a lifestyle choice due to allergies. Pea protein (one of the most common) is a type of protein that is high in BCAAs and can have similar effects to whey protein. (19)
- Casein: Casein is a slow-digesting protein derived from cow’s milk. It’s full of peptides, which may result in better immune functions and have some benefits for digestion as well. (20)(21) Casein may also improve adaptations in muscle resistance training by an increase in muscle protein synthesis, mass, and strength. (22)
Protein Powders for Muscle Gain FAQs
Do I need to take protein powder to see muscle gain?
No. Protein powder isn’t necessary for muscle gain, but adequate daily protein intake is a necessity. Many people struggle to hit the necessary protein requirements that will help optimize muscle gains, and that’s where protein powder can come in handy.
What is the best protein powder for muscle gain?
There are tons of different options out there to accommodate every diet, goal, price range, and more. For someone with no dietary restrictions, we think Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein is the best overall. It’s packed with 28 grams of pure whey isolate to potentially get to your muscles faster.
How much do protein powders for muscle gain cost?
Protein powders typically have a fairly narrow price range of around $45 to $65 per container with notable exceptions, like bulk size containers and mass gainers. The average per-serving price is generally around $1.50 to $2.25. Again, the exceptions are mass gainers, which tend to run around $5 per serving, and bulk proteins on the opposite end of the spectrum, which can be as cheap as $1.25 per serving with a larger up front cost.
Which is the most important factor to consider when buying protein for muscle gain?
There is no generic main factor to consider other than what makes the most sense for your goals. Whether it’s protein content, carbs and fats, micronutrients, price, or the type of protein that fits your lifestyle — it’s important to remember what makes the most sense for you. There will be a lot of variables, so stick with what will work best with your current goals and lifestyle.
Are these protein powders for muscle growth safe to take?
All the supplements that we have on our lists have been researched by our staff for integrity and quality. It is always most important to speak with your healthcare provider when you are adding new supplements to your regimen though — especially if you have any allergies or sensitivities to ingredients or supplements.
References
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