The 10 Best Protein Powders for Men of 2025, Tested and Reviewed

Why We Like It

For male athletes wanting the best of the best, we hold Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate in high regard. We appreciate the 28 grams of protein per serving — a higher dosage than your typical 20 to 25 grams — as well as this powder’s abundance of flavors. As one BarBend tester, a certified personal trainer, explains, there’s a reason it’s our top pick.

“This is, without question, one of the best protein powders I’ve had in recent memory,” they say. “You get the satiety you want from a mixed shake, there aren’t any negative side effects post-consumption, and the flavors are impeccable. I’d recommend this powder to anyone looking to switch up their supplement regimen. It’s a clear staple in my routine now.”

In addition to being one of the best whey protein powders we’ve tried, this particular protein powder is great for men because of its key micronutrients, including calcium, iron, and potassium. Dosages can vary by flavor, but the inclusion of potassium is especially beneficial, as some research suggests potassium may help maintain lean muscle mass and help to prevent cardiovascular disease. (3)(4)

Thanks to these key ingredients, as well as the hearty dose of whey protein isolate in each serving, we rate this Transparent Labs a 5 out of 5 for formulation complexity. “I love that Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is free from artificial sweeteners, food dyes, and preservatives. You get 28 grams of high-quality protein without any unnecessary fluff,” adds Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., RDN, LD.

“I got my hands on a limited-edition flavor — Peppermint Hot Chocolate,” our tester says, scoring its taste 5 out of 5. “While there wasn’t as much peppermint as I’d hoped, I was pleased with its mouthfeel and taste. All I needed were some mini marshmallows to complete the scene.”

Be mindful, though, that the makeup does include stevia, which can lead to side effects like bloat or GI distress. (2)(5) We personally haven’t experienced any issues, but more sensitive athletes could potentially run a risk, so it’s important to take your personal sensitivities into account before purchase. If you’re worried about stevia or other sweeteners, try an unflavored protein powder from Nutricost or Legion.

Like other Transparent Labs products, Whey Protein Isolate is third-party tested, meaning it’s free of any banned substances. There are also no artificial sweeteners, preservatives, or colorings across the makeup, and the powder is non-GMO and gluten-free.

Mixing Transparent Labs Whey Isolate is also a breeze, earning the powder another 5 out of 5 rating for solubility. “There weren’t any issues during blending,” says our tester. “I could easily make a shake with water and milk, alike.”

The one main drawback to this high-quality protein supplement is its cost, which we rate at 3.5 out of 5 for multiple reasons. First, the $2 per serving is higher than most other options, which typically come in between $1 and $1.75. For a more budget-friendly alternative, give Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate a try.

Good for: Anyone looking for a third-party-tested product with a variety of flavors and higher protein content than other brands.

Read our full Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate Review.

Why We Like It

If you’re looking for a tasty treat that feels more like a snack than a nutritional supplement, XWERKS Grow is the powder for you. We’ve previously called this product one of the best-tasting protein powders available — and for good reason. Across the four available flavors, we’ve yet to find a blend that doesn’t deliver a palate-pleasing experience.

According to our tester, a certified personal trainer, “The Chocolate variety tastes nearly identical to a Yoo-Hoo. I really appreciate the mix of sweet and richness.” Also, they paired their 5-out-of-5 taste rating with a 5 out of 5 for solubility. “Mixing was rarely an issue. I practically didn’t need a blender ball to break up any clumps.”

Another BarBend tester, Wes Stroud, says that the thick texture only adds to the Vanilla option. “The texture is great in water, but I usually use milk with the Vanilla flavor,” he says. “There is a tiny aftertaste, but I still give this flavor a 4 out of 5. It’s more foamy than average, but no clumps or anything.”

While taste is a major factor when it comes to XWERKS Grow, the formulation is also worthwhile thanks to protein dosages ranging from 25.8 to 27.8 grams per serving, depending on your chosen flavor. XWERKS  sources its whey protein isolate from New Zealand grass-fed cows. These animals are highly regulated to ensure they’re raised with no exposure to hormones, pesticides, or antibiotics. (6)

You can also expect 110 calories per serving with this protein powder, which can be viewed in multiple ways. That may not be a suitable amount for athletes wanting a full-blown meal replacement shake, but it can be enough to keep you satiated in between meals. Also, you get 110 calories regardless of your chosen flavor, which can make planning around your daily nutritional goals more feasible.

XWERKS Grow’s makeup also includes over 6 grams of BCAAs, which studies show can help support muscle recovery and assist in limiting post-workout soreness. (7) Unfortunately, though, information on dosages isn’t present on the physical packaging, which can lead to confusion. XWERKS does list the complete amino acid profile online, but it’s an added step if you’re looking to research the formulation.

Granted, other protein powders may offer more unique tastes across a larger flavor roster. What this protein powder lacks in flavor variety, though, it makes up for in quality … if you’re willing to pay. According to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., RDN, LD, “At around $2 per serving, XWERKS Grow is one of the more expensive options on the market. Still, you get 25 grams of protein for $2, so it’s not too outrageous.” For more flavor options, you can try Legion Whey+.

Good for: Those looking for a low-calorie option with 25-plus grams of protein. 

Read our full XWERKS Grow Review.

Why We Like It

We recommend Jacked Factory’s Authentic ISO protein powder for male athletes because of its impressive 25 grams of whey protein isolate. This form of protein is filtered for a more refined end product, which helps eliminate unwanted lactose, fat, fillers, or carbs. This leaner formulation, which we rated at a 4.5 out of 5, can be excellent for athletes looking to fine-tune their daily macros without sacrificing other areas throughout their meal plan. Plus, the 25 grams is a high protein dosage when compared to other powders out there — typically 24 grams or lower.

“The Vanilla flavor is really good. I appreciate that it’s not overly sweet because some protein powders overdo it,” says BarBend tester Sam Hall, who scores both its taste and solubility at 4 out of 5. “I prefer mixing it with milk over water, but neither allow for any clumps or grittiness.”

We also like how Jacked Factory keeps costs relatively low when it comes to Authentic ISO. We rated the cost per serving at 5 out of 5, as the starting $0.93 per dosage is below the average $1 to $1.75 we’ve seen in other high-quality protein powders. There is only one container size, though, which may deter some men who prefer to buy their protein powder in bulk quantities. For bulk containers of 60 or more servings, check out options like Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate or Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein.

When it comes to flavors, this milk protein supplement has eight to choose from. Reviews are (understandably) mixed, although we’ve found the tastes to be enjoyable enough for repeat sips and shakes throughout the week. “If you’re prone to getting bored with your protein powder flavors, you’ll likely be excited about Jacked Factory’s dessert-inspired options,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., RDN, LD.

Be mindful, though, that Authentic ISO is sweetened with sucralose and stevia. These sweetening agents could potentially cause GI distress and other side effects in more sensitive individuals. (2)(5) If it fits your budget, go with Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate for an option without sucralose.

Hall adds that he tends to just finish his shakes right away. “If you let it sit too long, it will start to separate,” he says. “But there’s nothing dramatic like the nasty sludge I’ve seen from some protein powders.”

Good for: Anyone looking for a range of flavors from their protein powder.

Why We Like It

There are many different types of protein out there, including casein. Casein protein digests more slowly than whey, making it an ideal choice for maintaining satiety throughout the day or keeping your muscles fueled throughout the evening. (9) Transparent Labs Casein is our top pick for this category, partly due to a clean makeup that’s free of any artificial preservatives, sweeteners, or colorings.

“I’m a fan of the macro breakdown that Transparent Labs offers with their Casein Protein powder,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., RDN, LD, who rated the formulation at 4.75 out of 5. “You get a whopping 25 grams of protein without an overwhelming amount of carbs or fat. It helps you meet your protein needs without overdoing it in other areas.”

BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer Rosie Borchert highlights how well it blends and scores its solubility 4.5 out of 5. “Unlike some other popular protein powders, which can sometimes leave a ton of product that settles to the bottom of your drink, this powder stayed smooth from the first sip until the last,” she says.

Yes, you’re limited to just classic Vanilla or Chocolate flavors, but one BarBend tester, a certified personal trainer, gave this powder a 5 out of 5 for taste. “I really like adding this protein to less liquid than usual. It creates a pudding-like consistency that reminds you of a Snack Pack you’d enjoy back in grade school.” Borchert also experimented with adding Transparent Labs Casein to other dishes. “I did mix up a high-protein tofu pudding with it, which was fab-u-lous! I could eat this stuff every night.”

Like other Transparent Labs products, you do need to pay a premium to take advantage of this well-designed supplement. At $2 per serving, it’s higher than the average $1 to $1.75 price tag you’ll find with other protein powders. Additionally, this supplement is only available in 30-serving containers, leaving no opportunity to buy in bulk for a cheaper price. For a less expensive casein, try out Naked Nutrition Casein Protein.

Still, though, for staving off those late-night cravings and keeping your muscles full throughout the night, it’s hard to find a better solution than this tasty treat. “For only having 120 calories, I’m surprised how full I feel once I finish,” our tester adds.

Good for: Those who work out late at night and need a high-quality protein option before bed.

Read our full Transparent Labs Casein Protein Review.

Why We Like It

Want to give protein a permanent spot in your supplement routine but don’t want to shell out your life savings? Check out Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate. The average whey protein supplement tends to cost somewhere between $1 and $2 per serving, but this Nutricost profile costs less than $0.90 per dose. It’s also available in 2- and 5-pound containers — as any Costco or Amazon devotee knows, buying in bulk can save you some serious cash in the long run (great news if you’re bulking on a budget). 

The macros of this supplement are solid, too. In each serving, you get 25 grams of protein, 3 to 3.5 grams of fat, 1 to 3 grams of carbs, and 130 to 150 calories, depending on the flavor. This helps earn it a 4 out of 5 for formulation. “It still provides more carbs and fat than your average isolate powder, but it does a good job of prioritizing protein over the other macros,” notes Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., RDN, LD.

We mostly love the taste, though. Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, scores the category a 4 out of 5, dinging it slightly for having just four flavors. (For more flavor options, try protein from Legion or Transparent Labs.)

“I’m traditionally not a fan of peanut butter, but this protein powder actually had me enjoying every sip,” she says of the Chocolate Peanut Butter variety. “It’s not overly sweet, and I had no issues getting a shake down each and every day. Also, my partner has stomach issues with some protein powders, but didn’t with this one.” (It’s important to note that this powder does contain sucralose as an artificial sweetener, which may cause digestive issues in some people.) 

Meier also scored this powder’s solubility and texture both 5 out of 5, noting that while it tasted great when mixed with water or milk. “Oh my gosh. In milk, the texture is absolutely amazing. Creamy like a melted milkshake,” she raves. “Also, not a single clump at the bottom of my shaker cup,” she added. 

Good for: Those looking for a cost-effective protein powder that still delivers a high-quality muscle-building product.

Why We Like It

For men following a vegan diet, there are a variety of the best vegan protein powders to choose from. We recommend Gainful Everyday Plant Protein given its versatility in terms of taste. Rather than one container of a singular flavor, Gainful’s Everyday Plant Protein comes in an unflavored base powder that can be enhanced through different flavor packs (of which there are a ton).

“I chose Chocolate Peanut Butter and Cafe Mocha, both of which are delightful,” says vegan BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer, Alex Polish. Both flavors earn a 4.5 out of 5 from them. “The mocha flavor doesn’t quite give me the coffee-esque vibe that I want, but it’s still very pleasant. It’s even strong enough to completely mask some pretty grassy greens powder when I tossed all of the above into a blender with a banana and some oat milk.”

“I really like that Gainful offers a personalized protein powder formula and that it’s unsweetened and free from artificial ingredients,” says our expert reviewer Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD. She rated its formulation 4.5 out of 5, in part because Gainful uses both brown rice protein and pea protein to deliver up to 23 grams of total protein.

This plant-based protein blend also helps Gainful Everyday Plant Protein create a complete amino acid profile — a common flaw in other vegan protein powders. (22) It is also low in calories (120 per serving), which may be important for some people, especially if they are not relying on it as a meal replacement shake. That said, the low calories could be an issue for people looking to gain more muscle or utilize the shake as a real meal replacement option.

“Oat milk plus this powder works gorgeously. It tastes like a milkshake and feels like one, too,” Polish says, rating its solubility and texture at 4 out of 5. “Yeah, it’s got a couple of clumps, but so do great milk shakes, so I can’t count that against it. In water, it thickens up pretty decently, too. But, if you’re going to use only water, I’d recommend using less than you would of milk.”

Gainful Vegan Protein is more expensive than other proteins we’ve tested, coming in at roughly $2.57 per serving. “I don’t love the price point, especially because there are so few servings per bag,” Polish says. “But if getting supps that feel customized is your thing, I understand the added allure.”

If you’re looking for a less expensive vegan option, try Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder.

Good for: Anyone with dietary restrictions or those following a vegan diet who are looking for a complete amino acid profile.

Read our full Gainful Protein Powder Review.

Why We Like It

Yes, when it comes to the benefits of protein, there’s no shortage. However, when most men start supplementing with these powders, it’s likely to take advantage of protein’s effects on muscle protein synthesis. (10) For these particular fitness goals, we recommend Onnit’s Grass-Fed Whey Protein because of its reliance on whey protein isolate — a leaner protein type that delivers 20 grams of the macronutrient without excessive fat, lactose, or carbs.

You still get between 2 and 2.5 grams of fat and between 3 and 4 grams of carbohydrates with each dosage, but the emphasis on protein is why this powder serves as our pick for gaining muscle. “I like the macronutrient ratio that Onnit Whey Protein provides — 20 grams of protein, around 2 grams of fat, and 3-4 grams of carbs. And I like that Onnit includes an enzyme blend in their ingredients to help promote good digestion,” adds Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., RDN, LD.

We rate the formulation a 4.5 out of 5, too, because of the complete amino acid profile used in the makeup. This component can be excellent for helping you maintain that resistance training schedule — muscle gain is half-diet, half-effort, after all — as BCAAs and EAAs can assist with muscle recovery and relief from soreness post-workout. (7)

One tester, a certified personal trainer, highlights how well it mixes in a standard shaker bottle. “The solubility is great, and the powder practically disappears when mixed in water. I find no clumps whatsoever every time I mix it up.” BarBend tester Taylor Truitt, however, senses some grit, leading to our 4-out-of-5 solubility rating. “I don’t get visible clumps, but there is still some grittiness to it. I’d just recommend shaking for longer than 10 seconds in order to ensure a smooth consistency.”

When it comes to taste, you are limited to just Vanilla or Mexican Chocolate, which may be to the dismay of flavor-adventurous athletes. Additionally, our tester notes that the palate profile is somewhat thin, leading to a 3.75-out-of-5 rating for the category. “I enjoy the flavor, but this shake is so thin that you almost lose a chunk of the taste because it mixes so well,” they add. “I’d be willing to sacrifice some solubility if it meant regaining some richness in the powder.” For more flavor options, try out protein powders by Legion or Optimum Nutrition.

Onnit Grass-Fed Whey Protein is on the higher end when looking at the cost per serving. $2 per scoop is more than the average $1 to $1.75 cost of other high-quality protein powders. For those wanting to beef up with a powder that’s no bull, though, we believe it’s worth the investment.

Good for: People looking for an easily digestible whey protein that packs in a complete amino acid profile.Read our full Onnit Grass-Fed Whey Protein Review.

Why We Like It

Whey is often the first protein that comes to mind when one thinks of protein supplements. As one of the best whey isolates on the market, Legion’s Whey+ is a worthwhile pick for a slew of needs. Depending on the flavor, you can expect a hearty 21 to 23 grams of whey protein isolate per serving, along with a formulation that’s free of added sugars, lactose, GMOs, or, as the brand states, “artificial junk.”

“The first thing I look for in a protein powder is artificial sweeteners,” says BarBend editorial member Matt Cummings. “Some people don’t like anything with stevia, but whatever they do to make this Chocolate is working. I’m about to finish a five-pound bag of this stuff and I couldn’t be happier with it.”

“Legion products focus on research-backed nutrition, and their Whey+ protein powder is no exception. Whey+ is clinically dosed to support muscle building and workout recovery,” states Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., RDN, LD. The 5.6 grams of BCAAs per dosage can also be excellent for helping men improve their post-workout recovery time while also assisting with any lingering muscle soreness. (7)

Both Cummings and another BarBend tester, a certified personal trainer, score Whey+ at 4.5 out of 5 for taste and highlight the flavor options on tap. “The flavor matches the taste listed on the packaging, but it’s not overly pungent. I tested the Cinnamon Cereal variety, and I’d equate it to drinking the milk of a certain breakfast treat.”

“I’ve mixed this in water and milk, but I typically shake it up with cold brew coffee (which is mostly water, anyways) in the mornings,” Cummings adds, rating its solubility at 5 out of 5. “It blends up way better than most other protein powders I’ve used.”

We also caution athletes to be mindful of their container size when placing an order. On the surface, Whey+ is fairly affordable with costs per serving starting at $1.46. That price tag can quickly jump beyond the $1 to $1.75 average, though, if you opt for a smaller tub. Still, the price is reasonable enough to earn Whey+ a 4 out of 5 for cost. For more bulk options, try out Nutricost Whey Concentrate.

Neither of our team members noted any unwanted side effects or GI distress during our trials, but it’s worth noting that there aren’t any digestive enzymes present in the formula. This means that men with more sensitive stomachs risk some moans and groans when adding this protein to their regimen, although likely less so than with whey protein concentrates. Take your personal sensitivities into consideration before going full bore into this high-quality whey protein isolate.

Good for: Anyone looking to try a wide variety of flavors without sacrificing a high-quality nutrition profile.

Read our full Legion Whey+ Protein Review.

Why We Like It

Following a clean, organic diet but struggling to find a supp that can deliver on your protein goals? Ritual’s Essential Daily Shake packs in 20 grams of organic, non-GMO pea protein into each serving, which can greatly assist your nutritional regimen as you search for solutions between meals. Plus, Ritual adds in 400 milligrams of l-methionine for a complete amino acid profile — a rarity amongst plant-based protein options. (22)

“While plant-based proteins are becoming increasingly available, it is necessary to ensure the blend provides a complete amino acid profile, in order to get the most benefit out of your supplement,” says Dr. Jennie Stanford, M.D., FAAFP, DipABOM.

We also admire how Ritual details every ingredient and step of its manufacturing process. We rate this protein powder a 5 out of 5 for third-party testing due to its Clean Label Project certification, as well as the fact that, like Ritual Essential Multivitamin (among other offerings), every element of the formulation can be traced directly back to its source.

“I’m a huge fan of companies that are transparent with their formulas, and Ritual’s got that down to a science,” notes Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., RDN, LD. “Essential Protein Daily Shake is third-party tested and made with traceable ingredients, so you know exactly what you’re putting in your body and where it came from.”

Additionally, Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, gives Daily Shake a 4 out of 5 for taste. “It’s not super ‘planty’ like other vegan proteins I’ve tried in the past,” she says. “I do notice a slightly chalky aftertaste when mixing the powder in water, but I wouldn’t say it deterred me from drinking a shake regularly.”

BarBend tester Sam Hall also praises how quickly it mixes up. “It’s easy to just mix up in a shaker cup and barely even takes 10 seconds,” he says, scoring its solubility at 4 out of 5. “I also just love not having to contend with any sticking to the sides or little clumps floating around.”

We did not, however, have similarly positive experiences when looking at the cost and value of this protein powder, which we rated at 2 out of 5 on our scale. $2.67 per serving is far beyond the average $1 to $1.75 range we’ve seen in other protein supplements. Plus, there’s a single container size — 15 servings — meaning you’ll need to purchase multiple packages if you plan on supplementing with Daily Shake each day throughout a given month. For a more budget-friendly option, try out Nutricost, which also has a 5-pound bulk container.

Finally, Ritual operates on a subscription-based strategy. When you make your initial purchase, you’re automatically signed up for repeat orders. While this could be viewed as a perk given the smaller container size, we understand that a new subscription isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.

Good for: Those looking for a plant-based protein powder that has gone through open and transparent third-party testing.

Why We Like It

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.

To lose weight, you need to achieve and maintain a calorie deficit, i.e., burning more energy than you consume. (12) However, not all calories are created equal, and protein can be an excellent tool in achieving this thanks to its ability to keep you full in-between whole meals while also promoting thermogenesis — the process by which your body burns calories. (13) For men focused on weight loss, we recommend Momentous Grass Fed Whey Protein thanks to its low-calorie makeup of 90 to 100 calories per serving, as well as its inclusion of other micronutrients.

Depending on your flavor of choice — Unflavored, Chocolate, or Vanilla — you can expect to consume between 110 and 260 milligrams of potassium in one Momentous shake. According to studies, potassium can be a helpful micronutrient for men thanks to its ability to promote lean muscle mass. (3) Potassium can also be a good defense against heart-related illnesses, which are reportedly more common amongst the male population. (4) (14)

Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., RDN, LD, also praised the formulation of Momentous Grass-Fed Whey Protein, rating it at 4.25 out of 5. “I might be a little biased, but I love that Momentous collaborates with dietitians when formulating their products and I love love love that they link up-to-date research that backs their product’s ingredients,” she states.

Formulation aside, Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, also rates this protein powder highly at 4 out of 5 for taste. “I had Chocolate during our trials and found it rich in flavor, almost like hot cocoa,” she says. “I’d purchase this again solely because of taste.”

Meanwhile, BarBend editorial member Matt Cummings appreciates the subtlety of the Vanilla option. “I could barely taste the vanilla in both bases, but that’s a good thing. I can’t stand the overly-sweet protein powders,” he says. “Whether I use milk or water, it’s pretty frothy and feels a bit heavy, but its thickness contributed to the texture.”

Meier and Cummings both rate Momentous Grass-Fed Whey Protein at 5 out of 5 for solubility, noting zero instances of clumping or residue buildup. “I even doubled the dosage for a thicker, heavier shake and still achieved a smooth consistency,” Meier says.

We didn’t experience any present side effects or stomach issues when testing this as one of the best protein powders for weight loss, but other athletes have noted cases of bloat and GI distress. Before ordering a container for yourself, it’s always wise to take your personal sensitivities into account.

Finally, while Momentous Grass Fed Whey Protein is one of our favorite protein supplements for men, we understand that the $2.70 cost per serving isn’t for every budget. It’s nearly a whole dollar more than the average range we see in high-quality proteins, which may price some athletes out of the mix. For those looking for a premium supplement to give their weight loss journey an added zest of flavor and performance, though, we think it’s worth the higher price tag. If you can’t swallow the price, though, try a more affordable option from Jacked Factory or Nutricost.

Good for: People looking for a low-calorie protein option that still packs a ton of flavor. 

Read our full Momentous Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate Review.