If you’re serious about your protein intake, you’re probably already well-versed in shopping the best protein powders. After all, “one of the easiest ways to sneak in more protein is with protein powder, since protein powder can be added to most foods,” notes Dr. Christopher Mohr, PhD, RD. But even if you’re a protein pro, you may be unfamiliar with whey protein isolate. These protein-rich building block supplements often feature a lower count of carbs and fat, making them great for athletes looking to keep their macros in check while also trying to reap the benefits of protein powder, including muscle growth, increased satiety, and more. (1)(2)
For those that have strolled through a vitamin store before, though, you understand that there are almost too many whey isolate protein powders on the market to count. In an effort to make the purchasing process go down smoothly, we’ve put more than 100 protein powders to the test to separate the best whey isolates apart from the crowd, using the unique supplement testing methodology we developed with the help of RDs and other experts. With help from our in-house experts, here are our favorite whey isolate protein powders on the market today.
The Best Whey Isolate Protein Powders of 2025
- Best Whey Isolate Protein Powder Overall: Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Isolate
- Best Whey Isolate on Amazon: Sports Research Whey Isolate
- Best-Tasting Whey Isolate: Jacked Factory Authentic Iso
- Best Natural Whey Isolate: Legion Whey+
- Best Grass-Fed Whey Isolate: Onnit Whey Isolate Protein Powder
- Best Whey Isolate for Muscle Gain: Momentous Whey Protein Isolate
- Best Whey Isolate for Digestion: Klean Athlete Klean Isolate
- Best Whey Isolate for Recovery: MyProtein Impact Whey Isolate
- Best Budget Whey Isolate: NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate
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 use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine.
Best Overall Whey Isolate Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Isolate
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
- Price Per Serving: Starting at $1.82
- Protein Source: Grass-fed whey isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 28g
- Carbs Per Serving: Up to 3g
- Fats Per Serving: Up to 2.5g
- Available Flavors: Milk Chocolate, French Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, Unflavored, Dark Chocolate, Chocolate Coconut, Strawberry Milkshake, Cinnamon French Toast, Mocha, Blueberry Pancakes, Vanilla Peanut Butter, Chocolate Chip Banana Bread, Mint Chocolate Chip
Best Whey Isolate on Amazon: Sports Research Whey Protein Isolate
Offering 25 grams pf whey protein isolate alongside nearly 7 grams of BCAAs, Sports Research Whey Protein Isolate is a great option for those looking to supplement their diets, build muscle, and enhance workout recovery.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: Starting at $1.27
- Protein Source: Whey protein isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 25g
- Carbs Per Serving: Up to 4g
- Fats Per Serving: Up to 4g
- Available Flavors: Creamy Vanilla, Dutch Chocolate
Best-Tasting Whey Isolate Protein Powder: 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
- Price Per Serving: $1.33
- Protein Source: Grass-fed whey protein isolate
- Protein Per Serving: Up to 27g
- Carbs Per Serving: Up to 4g
- Fats Per Serving: Up to 1.5g
- Available Flavors: Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie, Cookies & Cream, Vanilla, Milk Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Unflavored, Peanut Butter
Best Natural Whey Isolate Protein Powder: 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
- Price Per Serving: Starting at $1.54
- Protein Source: Non-GMO whey protein isolate
- Protein Per Serving: Up to 23g
- Carbs Per Serving: Up to 3g
- Fats Per Serving: Up to 6g
- Available Flavors: Dutch Chocolate, French Vanilla, Cinnamon Cereal, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Salted Caramel, S’mores, Oatmeal Cream Pie, Peanut Butter Fudge, Coconut Cream, Cookies & Cream, Birthday Cake, Chocolate Hazelnut, Unflavored, Mint Chocolate, Banana Bread, Mocha Cappuccino, Strawberry Banana, Cocoa Cereal, Fruity Cereal, Pumpkin Pie, Apple Pie, Honey Cereal
Best Grass-Fed Whey Isolate Protein Powder: Onnit Whey Isolate Protein Powder
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
- Price Per Serving: $1.80
- Protein Source: Whey protein isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 20g
- Carbs Per Serving: Up to 4g
- Fats Per Serving: Up to 2.5g
- Available Flavors: Vanilla, Mexican Chocolate
Best Whey Isolate 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
- Price Per Serving: $2.20
- Protein Source: Grass-fed whey protein isolate
- Protein Per Serving: Up to 23.4
- Carbs Per Serving: Up to 3
- Fats Per Serving: Up to 1.5g
- Available Flavors: Unflavored, Vanilla, Chocolate
Best Whey Isolate Protein Powder for Digestion: Klean Athlete Klean Isolate
For athletes that need a clean option to supplement their competitive training regimens, this simplified protein powder can be just the ticket. The Unflavored nature of this Klean Athlete powder makes it easy to add to your beverage of choice, and the NSF-Certified stamp helps assure you that the formulation is free of any banned substances, unwanted contaminants, and heavy metals.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $2.98
- Protein Source: Whey protein isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 20g
- Carbs Per Serving: 1g
- Fats Per Serving: 0g
- Available Flavors: Unflavored
Best Whey Isolate for Recovery: MyProtein Impact Whey Isolate
For athletes wanting a complete protein solution for post-workout needs, MyProtein Impact Whey Isolate can be just the ticket. A majority of the calories within this formulation are designed to help promote post-workout recovery, and the ingredients contain no added sugars or fat per dosage.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: Starting at $1.69
- Protein Source: Whey protein isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 22g
- Carbs Per Serving: 1g
- Fats Per Serving: 0g
- Available Flavors: Birthday Cake, Chocolate Brownie, Chocolate Milkshake, Chocolate Mint, Cinnamon Cereal, Cookies & Cream, Fruity Cereal, Gingerbread, Marshmallow Cereal, Matcha, Mocha, Pumpkin Spice, Salted Caramel, Southern Comfort Southern Milkshake, Strawberry Milkshake, Unflavored, Vanilla Ice Cream
Best Budget Whey Isolate: NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate
NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate is among the most budget-friendly on the market for under a dollar per serving. This supplement is also third-party tested and comes in bulk buy options bat a discounted price.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: Starting at $1.23
- Protein Source: Whey protein isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 25g
- Carbs Per Serving: Up to 2g
- Fats Per Serving: Up to 0.5g
- Available Flavors: Creamy Chocolate, Unflavored, Vanilla
How We Tested and Chose the Best Whey Isolate Protein Powders
The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To determine the best whey isolate protein powders available today, we’ve tested nearly 100 different profiles from the industry’s best brands, using our supplement testing methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Below are some of the categories and components that played into our rankings.
- Macro Splits: All the best protein powders heavily favor protein as the primary macronutrient, as opposed to fat or carbs. “When choosing a whey protein, pay close attention to the macro split,” says Dr. Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP, DipABOM. “You want a version that is almost all, if not completely all, protein. After all, protein is what you are after, not fat and carbs.”
- Solubility: Mixing up your best protein shake shouldn’t be as taxing as mixing up a batch of concrete, nor should leave you with a shaker bottle with leftover powder. We prioritized whey isolate products that blended seamlessly in both your standard shaker cup, as well as a countertop blender. We examined how seamlessly each powder blended into our chosen liquids, as well as if there were any unwanted clumps or grittiness present within the final product.
- Digestibility: Whey isolate is the best animal-based protein powder option for those with lactose sensitivities. These powders are so refined that they’re nearly devoid of lactose, though those who are extremely sensitive may still prefer to avoid them.
- Quality Control and Third-Party Testing: Many of the companies in this list perform ongoing trials to analyze contents for heavy metals, pesticides and herbicides, and other impurities, so you won’t have to worry about quality control when you grab one of these supplements off the shelf. Additionally, we focused on whey protein isolates that carry third-party approval from recognized labs such as NSF, Informed Choice, and Labdoor. These stamps of approval can be a quick way to identify a whey isolate that’s free of banned substances.
- Flavors: We like variety, so we tried to include powders that have several flavor options available. Each of the picks on this list has a variety of flavors.
Benefits of Whey Isolate Protein Powder
While there are plenty of potential health benefits of protein powders, whey isolate benefits stand out from the pack. The thorough refining process takes more carbohydrates and fats out of the product, providing a supplement that is more pure protein. Whey isolates are meant as a supplement to help increase protein intake to hit macronutrient goals, aid in recovery and growth, or potentially aid in decreased snacking or fat loss. (6)
Editor’s Note: If you have any pre-existing conditions or dietary restrictions, it’s best to consult your doctor or a registered dietitian to confirm whey isolate is okay for your body. Below are some other perks associated with whey isolate protein powders.
- Muscle Recovery: Whey protein supplementation has been shown to improve muscle protein synthesis (the repair of muscles after being broken down during exercise). (1) Whey isolate may be better at helping jumpstart muscle recovery after a hard workout than some other protein sources, including whey concentrate and plant-based protein powders. (5)
- Increased Satiety: “Protein powder can contribute to weight loss since it makes many individuals feel full and causes them to eat fewer calories,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Studies have consistently shown that high-protein diets can increase satiety and assist with weight loss. (2)(8) A scoop of whey isolate is an easy way to boost your satiety. However, it’s worth noting that whey isolates likely cannot keep you satiated enough to be a full meal substitute. We recommend opting for one of the best meal replacements if that is your main goal with protein supplementation.
How to Choose Whey Protein Isolate Powders
Whey protein comes in various forms. The most popular kinds of whey you’ll find on the market are concentrate, isolate, and hydrolysate. There are also plant-based proteins and vegan proteins, but we didn’t consider them for this because the list only consists of milk-derived whey isolates.
While the type is a consideration, you’ll also want to think about price, along with flavor availability. Other things to keep on your radar when considering a whey isolate is the macro split and the digestibility of the protein supplement you’re purchasing.
Protein Type
When it comes to different types of protein, there are three options when it comes to whey. Below, we’ll outline whey concentrate versus isolate versus hydrolysate.
Whey hydrolysate is the most processed — to the point where it may be called “pre-digested” — as the enzymes that break it down have already done part of the digestion for you. Like whey isolate, it contains around 90% protein by weight and very few fats or carbs, but since it’s already broken down, it’s absorbed faster than isolate or concentrate. It’s also more expensive than both of those.
Similarly, whey isolate is processed — though a little less so than hydrolysate — and contains the same 90% protein by weight and little to no carbs or fat. While it may not be absorbed as fast as hydrolysate, it’s more affordable and considered by many to be the best bang for your buck.
Whey concentrate is the more basic, less concentrated form. It’s only up to 80% protein by weight, with the rest of the product being fat and carbs. Since whey concentrate is less concentrated and not filtered, it’s also cheaper than whey isolate and whey hydrolysate (which is the most expensive).
Whey concentrate is typically higher in calories and better for those who want to gain weight, while isolate and hydrolysate are trimmed down in fat and carbs (as well as lactose and sugar) for those who are more conscious of those macros or those seeking the best low-carb protein powders. And if digestion is of particular concern, whey hydrolysate allows for optimal processing and absorption — more so than either concentrate or isolate.
Even though hydrolysate and isolate are leaner versions of whey, that doesn’t mean they aren’t good for muscle building and bulking up. Since whey isolate and hydrolysate both have a higher concentration of protein, they do contain more grams of protein per scoop, and can also be used for building lean muscle mass.
Price
Whey isolate is (typically) more expensive than whey concentrate. Isolate is more refined and goes through additional processing to give it a higher percentage of protein per serving with fewer carbs and fats. The higher protein concentration and added manufacturing steps are likely what increases the price.
Generally, whey isolates range from $40 to $80 per tub, depending on other factors such as added digestive enzymes, probiotics, specialty diet formulas, and other variables. If you’re not looking to drop that much on protein powder, you’re better off opting for a less expensive formula, like a whey concentrate.
Flavor Availability
Most protein powders on the market will come in some form of chocolate and vanilla flavors, though some companies may make it sound more exciting with names like “Dutch Chocolate” or “French Vanilla Ice Cream.” Things have come a long way in the past decade with many proteins now available in fruit flavors, too — a common occurrence with the best clear protein drinks. Essentially, if you can dream it, there’s likely a protein flavor of it somewhere out there.
Macro Splits and Digestibility
The macro split of a protein isolate and its digestibility go hand in hand. (11) “In general, some people, like those with kidney problems, allergies to dairy or soy, or sensitive stomachs, should be careful with protein powder,” notes Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. But thanks to the further refinement and removal of most lactose in whey isolate, it may be more easily digested and ideal for people with lactose intolerance or sensitivity. Whey isolates typically have fewer carbs and fats in the way to slow down the digestive process, which may contribute to the quicker absorption and digestion that whey isolates are known for. (9)
Macro splits on whey isolates are usually very lean and (sometimes) even keto diet-friendly with low fat and low carbs (generally less than 2 grams of fat and less than 5 grams of carbs in whey protein isolates).
Some whey isolate formulas even come with digestive enzymes to help digestibility even more. If macros and better digestion are two factors you’re concerned with, a whey isolate is likely for you. But for optimal digestion, be sure you’re leaning toward those formulas with digestive enzymes, even though the isolate should be fairly easy for the body to digest on its own.
How Much Do Whey Isolate Protein Powders Cost?
Whey protein supplements can range in cost, with whey isolates being generally pricier than their whey concentrate counterparts. That’s likely due to the additional refinement and manufacturing efforts that go into purifying the protein and removing extra carbs and fats. (10) Here’s a price comparison of our favorite products:
Best Overall Whey Isolate Protein Powder | Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Isolate | Starting at $1.82 |
Best Whey Isolate on Amazon | Sports Research Whey Protein Isolate | Starting at $1.27 |
Best-Tasting Whey Isolate Protein Powder | Jacked Factory Authentic Iso | $1.33 |
Best Natural Whey Isolate Protein Powder | Legion Whey+ | Starting at $1.54 |
Best Grass-Fed Whey Isolate Protein Powder | Onnit Whey Isolate Protein Powder | $1.80 |
Best Whey Isolate Protein Powder for Muscle Gain | Momentous Whey Protein Isolate | $2.20 |
Best Whey Isolate Protein Powder for Digestion | Klean Athlete Klean Isolate | $2.98 |
Best Whey Isolate for Recovery | MyProtein Impact Whey Isolate | Starting at $1.69 |
Best Budget Whey Isolate | NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate | Starting at $1.23 |
Best Whey Isolates FAQs
What is the best whey isolate?
The best whey isolate will depend on a few factors, including goals, your needs, your flavor preferences, or your budget. With that being said, we think Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is a top-tier choice, as it has a high calorie-to-protein ratio, comes in a variety of unique flavor options, and is made from a high-quality protein source.
How much do whey isolates cost?
They’re generally more expensive than whey concentrates at around $1.76 per serving. If you’re looking to cut back on fat and carbs, we think the added cost is worth it. You’re not going to find a whey concentrate option with as little fat and carbs as whey isolates have. However, if that isn’t a priority to you, spending more money on whey isolate will not be worth your while.
How does whey isolate differ from whey concentrate?
When comparing whey isolate versus concentrate, you’re essentially speaking to how much refinement the protein undergoes during manufacturing. Whey isolates undergo further filtration steps to remove excess lactose, resulting in a more protein-dense formulation with fewer carbs and fats. Whey concentrate sees the fewest filtration during manufacturing, resulting in an end product with higher calories with an albeit lower cost per serving.
Does whey isolate contain lactose?
Yes, it does, but only about 1 gram. Whey concentrate contains around 3 grams, but neither of these numbers are typically enough to affect someone with lactose intolerance.
References
- Hulmi, J.J., Lockwood, C.M. & Stout, J.R. Effect of protein/essential amino acids and resistance training on skeletal muscle hypertrophy: A case for whey protein. Nutr Metab (Lond) 7, 51 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1186/1743-7075-7-51
- Veldhorst, M. A., Nieuwenhuizen, A. G., Hochstenbach-Waelen, A., van Vught, A. J., Westerterp, K. R., Engelen, M. P., Brummer, R. J., Deutz, N. E., & Westerterp-Plantenga, M. S. (2009). Dose-dependent satiating effect of whey relative to casein or soy. Physiology & behavior, 96(4-5), 675–682. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.physbeh.2009.01.004
- Church, D. D., Hirsch, K. R., Park, S., Kim, I. Y., Gwin, J. A., Pasiakos, S. M., Wolfe, R. R., & Ferrando, A. A. (2020). Essential Amino Acids and Protein Synthesis: Insights into Maximizing the Muscle and Whole-Body Response to Feeding. Nutrients, 12(12), 3717. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12123717
- Blomstrand E, Eliasson J, Karlsson HK, Köhnke R. Branched-chain amino acids activate key enzymes in protein synthesis after physical exercise. J Nutr. 2006;136(1 Suppl):269S-73S. https://doi:10.1093/jn/136.1.269S
- Vliet, S. V., Beals, J. W., Martinez, I. G., Skinner, S. K., & Burd, N. A. (2018). Achieving Optimal Post-Exercise Muscle Protein Remodeling in Physically Active Adults through Whole Food Consumption. Nutrients, 10(2), 224. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10020224
- West, D. W. D., Abou Sawan, S., Mazzulla, M., Williamson, E., & Moore, D. R. (2017). Whey Protein Supplementation Enhances Whole Body Protein Metabolism and Performance Recovery after Resistance Exercise: A Double-Blind Crossover Study. Nutrients, 9(7), 735. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9070735
- A Castro LH, S de Araújo FH, M Olimpio MY, et al. Comparative Meta-Analysis of the Effect of Concentrated, Hydrolyzed, and Isolated Whey Protein Supplementation on Body Composition of Physical Activity Practitioners. Nutrients. 2019;11(9):2047. https://doi:10.3390/nu11092047
- Moon J, Koh G. Clinical Evidence and Mechanisms of High-Protein Diet-Induced Weight Loss. J Obes Metab Syndr. 2020;29(3):166-173. https://doi:10.7570/jomes20028
- Bendtsen, L. Q., Lorenzen, J. K., Bendsen, N. T., Rasmussen, C., & Astrup, A. (2013). Effect of dairy proteins on appetite, energy expenditure, body weight, and composition: a review of the evidence from controlled clinical trials. Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.), 4(4), 418–438. https://doi.org/10.3945/an.113.003723
- Morr CV, Ha EY. Whey protein concentrates and isolates: processing and functional properties. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 1993;33(6):431-476. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408399309527643
- Capuano E, Janssen AEM. Food Matrix and Macronutrient Digestion. Annu Rev Food Sci Technol. 2021;12:193-212. https://doi:10.1146/annurev-food-032519-051646