The Best Whey Protein Powders For Muscle Growth, Weight Loss, and More

With the click of a mouse, you can order any protein powder, and it’ll arrive at your doorstep in a matter of days. This is great news for you since protein is an essential macronutrient that may help repair muscle tissue for strength gains, can keep you satiated, and may balance your hormones. 

In 2020, the global whey protein powder market was valued at $9.4 billion and is estimated to grow to $18.4 billion by 2027. Whey protein of all types — from whey isolate to whey concentrate — may be flying off of the shelves almost as fast as pre-workout. But what isn’t always certain is which brand is right for you. There is a seemingly endless number of protein powder options, but some may not be suited for your goals or lifestyle. Fear not, we’ve tested out dozens of protein powder supps, from the biggest sellers to the little-known underdogs, and developed this list to help you find the best whey protein powder to meet your needs.

The Best Whey Protein Powders

• Best Whey Protein Overall: Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate
• Best Whey Protein for Men: Huge Supplements Whey Protein
• Best Whey For Weight Loss: Kaged Whey Protein Isolate
• Best Whey Protein for Muscle Gain: Huge Supplements Whey Protein
• Best Tasting Whey Protein: Onnit Whey Protein
• Best Whey Protein Isolate: Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate
• Best Grass-Fed Whey Protein: Xwerks Grow Protein Powder
• Best Organic Whey Protein: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder
• Best Whey Protein Meal Replacement: Transparent Labs MRP
• Best Sustainably-Sourced Whey Protein: Onnit Whey Protein
• Best Vegan Non-Whey Protein: Swolverine Plant Protein
• Best Whey Protein for Bulking: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder
• Best Whey Protein for Women: Legion Whey Isolate Protein Powder
• Best Hydrolyzed Whey Protein: Dymatize ISO 100

Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for the diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. 

Best Whey Protein Powders Video

You can also check out this video from BarBend, where former Nutrition Editor Nick English goes over a variety of whey protein powders and their benefits. He walks you through each pick and why we chose it as a favorite.

[Related: 9 Types of Diets — How They Work and Pros & Cons]

Best Whey Protein Overall

A solid whey protein will have a balanced formula that offers a high dose of protein with minimal fat, and a low dose of carbs — this pick is just that. Plus, it comes with digestive enzymes, which may promote better digestion.

Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate

Swolverine’s whey protein formula delivers 26 grams of protein with just 0.5 grams of fat, and one gram of carbs. It’s a minimalistic formula, perfect for mixing into more nutritious shakes, baking with, or drinking straight-up with water. You’ll also find 10mg of digestive enzymes protease and papain, which may help your body break down this formula more effectively. 

Plus, this blend has a decent number of micronutrients as well, including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, and potassium. You can buy it in four flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, Honey Cinnamon Peanut Butter, and Mint Chocolate Chip. At about $2.10 per serving, this supp’s price is pretty on par for whey isolates, but if you’re not tied to an isolate, you can find a cheaper option.

Who Should Buy Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate

• Anyone who is trying to lose weight. This supplement delivers protein with little to no extra macronutrients. If you’re looking to bulk up, you can toss this powder into a more caloric shake, or even bake with it. 
• Folks who are concerned with digestion will appreciate the digestive enzymes here. 
• If you’re looking for additional micronutrients, this powder contains five of them.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate

• People looking to gain weight who may want a more caloric, carb-heavy whey protein formula as this only has 110 calories and one gram of carbs per serving. 
• Anyone who wants to buy a lot of protein powder at once. Swolverine only sells 30-serving tubs. (Of course, you can purchase multiple tubs at once, but they don’t offer any bulk deals.)
• Those on a budget may want to opt for a less expensive formula.

This formula is simple but delivers what most people looking for a protein powder want — a solid amount of protein, lower carbs and fats, and a reasonably short ingredients list.

Read our full review of Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate. 

Best Whey Protein for Men

For men who are looking to pack on some muscle in the gym, protein content is key. This product is a great pick for both protein and BCAAs.

Huge Supplements Whey Protein

Huge Supplements Whey Protein contains a high protein content of 23 grams of protein per scoop, and only two grams of fat and 2.5g of carbs. You’ll also find 5g of BCAAs, which can be ideal for muscle retention. This formula comes in four flavors — Cookies & Cream, Vanilla Milkshake, Chocolate Peanut Butter, and Strawberry Cheesecake. 

Huge Supplements uses a whey concentrate in this formula though, which means if you have issues with lactose, you may be better off opting for a whey isolate (that filters out more lactose) or a plant-based protein. This whey is a reasonable price per serving at about $1.66, but it also only comes in a 30-serving tub, which means there isn’t a discounted option for bulk buy.

Who Should Buy Huge Supplements Whey Protein

• Men looking for a whey concentrate powder with a high protein content that may help with muscle gains. 
• Athletes who want a solid dose of BCAAs will appreciate the 5g here. 
• Anyone who wants a variety of flavors to choose from — this one has four.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Huge Supplements Whey Protein

• Folks who are lactose intolerant may want to find a whey isolate or a plant-based formula. This is a whey concentrate and may contain more lactose than you would like. 
• Anyone who’s trying to pack on a few extra pounds — each scoop of this powder only contains 120 calories. 
• Those who prefer to buy their protein in bulk as this only comes in a 30 serving option. 

For men who are trying to round out their diets and gain some muscle, Huge Supplements Whey Protein is a great way to pack in 23g of protein and 5g of BCAAs in one go. 

Best Whey for Weight Loss

Whey isolate protein powder is a go-to pick among people who are looking to lose weight — and for good reason. It’s high in protein, but generally low in carbs, fats, and sugars, which means the calories are typically lower overall than other protein types. Our top pick for weight loss has 25 grams of protein per serving for all five flavors while keeping carbs and fat to a minimum.

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.

Kaged Whey Protein Isolate

Kaged Whey Protein Isolate contains a whopping 25 grams of protein per serving, which is higher than most other protein supplements on the market that average around 20 grams per serving. Even with high protein content, the fats stay between zero and a half gram of fat (depending on flavor), and the carbs sit between two and four grams per serving, which is relatively low. All five flavors sport either 110 or 120 calories per serving, as well. Many people who are in a weight loss or cutting phase will have a diet that is high in protein and lower in carbs and fats, and this is set to provide just that. It also give you more flexibility to consume your macros through food rather than supplements.

The sugar content is also fairly low as three of the flavors — S’mores, Chocolate, and Chocolate Peanut Butter — have one gram of sugar from sucralose and steviol glycosides, and both the Cinnamon French Toast and Vanilla flavors contain zero grams of sugar. Each flavor comes in a three-pound tub, which provides around 42 servings per container, coming out to around $1.40 per serving — a pretty reasonable price for a whey isolate. As a bonus, this formula contains digestive enzymes, which may make absorption easier on those who experience digestive discomfort from whey protein supplementation. 

Who Should Buy Kaged Whey Protein Isolate

• Anyone trying to lose weight may want a protein powder lower in calories — this one only has 110 to 120 per serving, depending on flavor. 
• People who have trouble digesting even more refined protein powders, like whey isolates, will like the inclusion of digestive enzymes here.
• Athletes who want delicious flavors to choose from will enjoy the five options here — S’mores, Chocolate, Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, or Cinnamon French Toast.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Kaged Whey Protein Isolate

• Customers who aren’t tied to an isolate can find a cheaper option in a concentrate formula.
• Those who prefer fruity flavors like strawberry, banana, or fruity cereal may want to look at a different brand.
• Those who are actively avoiding sucralose will want to steer clear of this formula.

Caloric intake largely dictates whether you’ll gain or lose weight, but this protein powder may help to curb your appetite, making you less likely to indulge in higher-calorie foods. If your goal is to lose some weight while maintaining muscle mass, this lean protein shake may be just what you need.

Best Whey Protein for Muscle Gain

It’s no secret that protein can play a key role in muscle gains. This pick contains 23g of protein and 5g of BCAAs per serving (which can also help you retain muscle).

Huge Supplements Whey Protein

Sourced from both whey isolate and whey concentrate, Huge Supplements Whey Protein packs 23 grams of protein into each serving. It also contains 5g of BCAAs, which can particularly help with strength and muscle retention. Plus, the macros are pretty respectable with only 2g of fat and 2.5g of carbs per serving. 

It comes in four flavors — Strawberry Cheesecake, Cookies & Cream, Chocolate Peanut Butter, and Vanilla Milkshake. This product runs pretty middle range in terms of pricing at around $1.66 per serving — so if you’re looking for something cheaper, you can definitely find it, but this pick really won’t break the bank either. It is worth noting that this formula contains natural and artificial flavors and is sweetened with sucralose, which may not be optimal for some users.

Who Should Buy Huge Supplements Whey Protein

• Bodybuilders looking to pack on muscle. This product contains a solid dose of both protein and BCAAs. 
• Customers who want a whey protein that is a blend of isolate and concentrate. 
• Anyone who wants a formula that is low in carbs and fat will appreciate that there is only 2g of fat and 2.5g of carbs per serving here.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Huge Supplements Whey Protein

• Athletes who want the leanest whey isolate on the market. While this formula is fairly lean, you can find whey isolates that contain no carbs or fat. 
• If you want additional ingredients (like glutamine or creatine) in your protein powder, you won’t find them here. 
• Those looking to avoid artificial flavoring or sucralose as this formula contains both.

Whey protein is one of the best options to help with muscle gain potential, and this formula contains a solid 23g dose of it and 5g of BCAAs, which may also help you retain those muscles you work so hard for in the gym.

Best Tasting Whey Protein

Sometimes all you’re looking for in a protein supplement is a great taste that will keep you hooked for a while. This pick comes in a unique Mexican Chocolate flavor. 

Onnit Whey Protein

Onnit prioritizes quality, and their formula is tangible proof of that. Formulated from New Zealand grass-fed whey isolate, a single serving of Onnit offers up about 120 calories, 20 grams of protein, five grams of carbs, and two grams of fat. It’s free of soy, gluten and sugar, and because it’s grass-fed, it’s got a great creamy texture.

As for flavor, Onnit comes in Mexican Chocolate — which is one of the best Chocolates we’ve tried — as well as Vanilla. One thing worth noting: Onnit Whey Protein is pretty pricey at about $2.00 per serving, which may turn some folks off. 

Who Should Buy Onnit Whey Protein

• Quality fiends who want to put only the best ingredients into their body will like this lean, grass-fed whey isolate formula.
• People who value flavor and taste. Onnit has a unique Mexican Chocolate flavor, as well as an objectively tasty Vanilla flavor. 
• Folks who are trying to avoid sugar — this protein doesn’t contain any.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Onnit Whey Protein

• Anyone looking for a budget protein powder — Onnit is one of the pricier protein powders on our list, costing about $2.00 per serving. 
• Folks who are after more than two flavor options. Though delicious, Onnit only comes in Mexican Chocolate and Vanilla. 

This whey protein powder is produced from New Zealand cows and doesn’t contain any sugar. It’s low in carbs and fat, and if you like chocolate but want to mix it up a little, this pick comes in a tasty Mexican Chocolate.

Read our full review of Onnit Whey Protein.

Best Whey Protein Isolate

Whey isolate is a form of whey protein that has been filtered to reduce its lactose and fat content, leaving behind around 90 percent protein content. This type of whey (and this pick in particular) packs a larger amount of protein per serving than many others and tends to be more easily digested.

Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate

Most whey protein isolates offer a solid dose of protein while keeping the fat and carbs to a minimum. Swolverine’s whey isolate does the same but has some unique elements that set it apart from the other isolates on the market, like 10mg of digestive enzymes per scoop, which can help improve digestion and absorption. If you take this protein as a post-workout supplement and want to kickstart muscle protein synthesis as quickly as possible, having those extra digestive enzymes may help achieve that.

As it is with most whey isolates, there’s no need to worry about extra calories from excessive carbs or fat — each scoop will net you 110 calories from 26g of protein, half a gram of fat, and only one gram of carbs. In addition, Swolverine includes some micronutrients, like calcium and phosphorus, as well as electrolytes, which can help fill in dietary gaps and keep you hydrated. All four flavors — Vanilla, Chocolate, Honey Cinnamon Peanut Butter, and Mint Chocolate Chip — are naturally sweetened with stevia and monk fruit extract, and only trace amounts of sucralose at less than a gram per serving. 

Who Should Buy Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate

• Folks who want to add more protein to their diet without adding a bunch of extra calories will like that this blend packs 26g of protein and only 110 calories per scoop. 
• Anyone who has trouble with bloating or digesting protein powders will appreciate the added 10mg of digestive enzymes here, which can help prevent that.
• Athletes who want to stay away from artificial sweeteners. This powder is sweetened with stevia and monk fruit extract. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate

• Budget-conscious shoppers. Isolate formulas are generally more expensive than concentrates, and this protein is no different at about $2.10 per serving.
• People who are looking to bulk up or who need a meal replacement should look at other options since this is a fairly low-calorie protein supplement. 
• Anyone who’s looking for a bunch of different flavors to try. This product offers two unique and two classic flavors, but other brands have more flavor options.

This powder’s low-fat, low-carb formula delivers a high dose of protein with minimal extra calories. On top of that, it can potentially digest more easily than whey concentrate and even easier than some other isolates thanks to the digestive enzymes. If you want to get extra protein in your diet and forego the bloating and digestion woes that come with some other proteins, this product may just be the way to go.

Best Grass Fed Whey Protein

If you’re on the hunt for a protein that’s derived from 100 percent grass-fed whey, this pick has you covered with 25 grams of grass-fed whey per scoop. 

Xwerks Grow Protein Powder

Xwerks Grow has 25 grams of protein. It is a whey isolate meaning it went through a refining process that left it with no lactose, carbs, fats, or sugars. Sourced from 100 percent New Zealand grass-fed whey, this pick contains six grams of BCAAs per serving, which may help build muscle and aid in recovery. 

This formula also contains micronutrients, including vitamins A, C, and D, as well as calcium, iron, and phosphorus. Xwerks Grow is free of artificial flavors, sweeteners, and coloring, and comes in Chocolate, Vanilla, Peanut Butter, and Strawberry. This product costs about $2.00 per serving, and each bag comes with 30 servings making it one of our more expensive picks on the list.

Who Should Buy Xwerks Grow Protein Powder

• Athletes who prefer a whey isolate protein that comes from 100 percent grass-fed cows will rejoice that this formula is derived from cows from New Zealand, which has strict regulations for their dairy industry which ensures high quality protein.
• If you’re looking for vitamins and minerals in your protein powder, this blend may help balance out your nutrient intake.
• Folks who value having BCAAs in their protein powder, which may aid muscle retention and muscle recovery will like the six grams found in this formula. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy Xwerks Grow Protein Powder

• Those who want a higher dose of carbs, fats, or sugars in their protein powder — this powder contains none of the above. 
• Vegans who want a powder that isn’t derived from animal products will want to look for a vegan-friendly protein powder.
• This is one of our more expensive picks at $2.00 per serving, so for those on a budget, you may want to look elsewhere. 

While most whey protein isolates contain low doses of carbs, fats, and sugars, Xwerks Grow doesn’t contain any of these macros. It also packs 25 grams of protein and a nice boost of calcium — with no artificial ingredients to be seen. The only downfall is that the price is on the higher side at $2.00 per serving.

Read our full review of Xwerks Grown Protein Powder.

Best Organic Whey Protein

If you focus a lot on the ingredients you put into your body, you may want a protein powder that doesn’t have too many of them — and hopefully, all ones that you can pronounce. This pick has five ingredients in total, comes from grass-fed cows, and is naturally flavored and sweetened to give you peace of mind.

Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder

This pick from Transparent Labs has all of the goodness a protein should offer without the fillers and artificial ingredients you’re looking to avoid. This is 100 percent grass-fed whey, it contains no artificial sweeteners, coloring, or preservatives, and only contains ingredients you can pronounce. With each scoop, you’ll obtain 28 grams of protein, one gram of carbs, zero grams of fat, and 120 calories, making it a very lean and protein-dense powder — even when compared to other whey isolates.

This formula comes in Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, Milk Chocolate, Cinnamon French Toast, Strawberry, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Mocha, Vanilla Peanut Butter, and Vanilla flavors. Each of the 30 servings in this tub will cost you around $2.00, which is a pretty median price for a whey isolate, but is still pricier than whey concentrates or other forms of protein powder. 

Who Should Buy Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder

• People who care about the ingredient list in their protein. This is an all-natural powder from grass-fed cows, and only contains ingredients you can pronounce. 
• Those who want a really lean protein powder as this has 28g of protein, one gram of carbs, and zero grams of fat per scoop.
• Folks who want delicious and diverse flavors to choose from as this formula comes in some more unique flavors like Vanilla Peanut Butter and Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder

• Anyone who doesn’t particularly care about eating an all-natural diet. Generally speaking, the label can increase the price of the product significantly.
• Lifters who are looking to put on mass may want a protein that contains more carbs and fats to assist your bulk.
• People who want extras (such as digestive enzymes) in their formula will have to look elsewhere. 

Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder comes packed with 28 grams of protein per serving and leaves the fillers and artificial ingredients behind. You have eight delicious flavors to choose from and can rest assured knowing that all the ingredients have totally pronounceable names.

Read our full review of Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder.

Best Whey Protein Meal Replacement

If you want a whey protein with solid macros and plenty of additional micronutrients to help nourish you, this product is going to be a great fit.

Transparent Labs MRP

Whey protein is great for folks who just want protein and nothing else, but it’s not the most nutritious option. If you’re on the hunt for a protein that offers more carbs and fats for muscle recovery, or a formula that can replace a standard meal, then this pick is your best bet. 

Each one-scoop serving delivers 220 calories, seven grams of fat, 19g of carbs, and five grams of fiber. Plus, it also contains a dose of calcium, iron, sodium, and potassium for an added nutritional boost. However, this is one of the more expensive options on this list at around $2.00 per serving, since you are technically getting a more substantial meal out of each serving than a basic whey protein powder provides. 

Who Should Buy Transparent Labs MRP

• Anyone who wants a protein powder that can replace an entire meal. 
• Athletes who need more calories and carbs overall to help recover from tough workouts. 
• If you’re always on the go and need an easy-to-consume meal to take with you, this meal replacement can help.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Transparent Labs MRP

• People who use protein purely as a supplement and prefer to eat their carbs and fats.
• Anyone who doesn’t want to drink their calories will want to look for a protein bar.
• Lifters on a cut. Meal replacement drinks, though filling, aren’t as satisfying as regular foods.

You want your meal replacement powder to maintain a balanced macro profile that simply scales along with the calorie count. Transparent Labs MRP does this, and, better yet, it also contains a good amount of micronutrients to fill in some dietary gaps. 

Best Sustainably-Sourced Whey Protein

Onnit contains effective and transparently sourced ingredients, is made from grass-fed cows, and delivers on taste.

Onnit Whey Protein

Onnit contains zero sugar, is soy- and gluten-free, and is made of 100 percent grass-fed whey protein isolate from pasture-grazing New Zealand cows. It also contains minimal carbs and fats — just five and two grams, respectively. We like that Onnit mixes well in water and milk, and comes in delicious Mexican Chocolate or Vanilla flavors with a price tag of about $2.00 per serving. 

Plus, it contains digestive enzymes, which can help your body process the nutrients you’re receiving even better. However, if you want to avoid maltodextrin or sunflower oil, then look elsewhere; this protein powder contains both of those ingredients. This protein will cost you about $2.00 per serving, but as New Zealand is notably strict on its dairy policies, you can rest assured knowing your protein is sourced from high-quality dairy. 

Who Should Buy Onnit Whey Protein

• People who want a grass-fed whey isolate protein without sacrificing flavor — this powder is extra creamy due to its grass-fed base. 
• Athletes who want digestive enzymes that can help them process their protein powder better.
• People who care about the welfare of the animals that provide their protein — this protein isolate comes from New Zealand cows that graze freely in pastures.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Onnit Whey Protein

• People who want to avoid maltodextrin at all costs. This is a common additive in many whey proteins to help with flavor, and Onnit does contain some. 
• If you’re avoiding seed oils, you may want to look elsewhere. Onnit contains sunflower oil to help with flavor. 

For people who are environmentally minded, Onnit ensures that their whey is sourced sustainably from New Zealand cows. The sourcing matters, as New Zealand has strict regulations regarding their dairy industry, which guarantees a high-quality product. 

Best Vegan Non-Whey Protein

Whey protein is the industry standard for protein supplementation, but whey also isn’t vegan-friendly as it’s a byproduct of making dairy products, like milk and cheese. Others may want to avoid whey due to potential spoilage (though this is rare if the right storage conditions are met), or unappealing smells or tastes. 

Swolverine Plant Protein

Swolverine’s plant-based protein is made from 22 grams of pea protein isolate and 7.7 grams of pumpkin protein. Compared to other vegan protein powders, Swolverine Plant Protein is pretty low in fats and carbs, boasting only 0.5 and seven grams, respectively. 

While the carbs are a tad high compared to whey protein isolate formulas, they’re pretty low for a plant-based powder. It’s worth noting that this product only comes in a Chocolate Cake flavor and a Salted Caramel flavor though — while many of us do love a decadent chocolatey treat or a Salted Caramel taste, those who prefer a Vanilla or fruity flavor will have to look elsewhere.

Who Should Buy Swolverine Plant Protein

• Plant-based eaters who want a vegan formula as this product is made with a blend of plant-based proteins, like pea and pumpkin. 
• Anyone who wants a vegan protein that closely resembles the macronutrient makeup of a whey protein powder.
• If you like knowing everything that goes into your protein powder, you’ll like this product’s transparent ingredient label.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Swolverine Plant Protein

• Anyone who wants a whey formula — this formula is made from plant-based protein.
• Folks who don’t like Chocolate or Caramel flavors will want to look elsewhere as this product only comes in Chocolate Cake and Salted Caramel. 
• People who want an inexpensive protein powder can find much cheaper options on the market. 

It’s not uncommon for plant-based proteins to be higher in carbs and fats (due to the source ingredients), but Swolverine’s macro profile is as close to whey as any plant-based protein we’ve seen. 

Best Whey Protein for Bulking

The best whey protein for bulking is this clean pick from Transparent Labs. It has no artificial ingredients and high protein content, allowing you to bulk up without having to chew through yet another chicken breast. 

Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder

If you’re looking to bulk up and maybe can’t stomach another bite of food with your current macros, then you’ll appreciate the 28g of protein per scoop that Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder delivers. Each two-scoop serving (32.96 grams) provides high protein content with a lean blend otherwise — including just 1g of carbs, and no fat or added sugars. 

The whey isolate comes from grass-fed cows, and instead of sugar, Transparent Labs sweetens their product with stevia. This product also offers quite a bit of flavor variety with eight flavors to choose from, including unique flavors like Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie. However, it’s definitely not the cheapest option on this list at about $2.00 per serving, so if you’re on a budget, you may want to look elsewhere. 

Who Should Buy Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder

• People who want all-natural protein — this whey is grass-fed, and free from artificial ingredients.
• Folks who are bulking and want a high protein content will appreciate the 28g here.
• Anyone who doesn’t love the taste of stevia as a sweetener may want to check out some other options. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder

• Those who are looking for a protein powder that is higher in carbs or fats will want to look elsewhere. 
• Penny pinchers will find that this product is pricier than conventional whey.

This all-natural whey protein is high in protein and flavor, but free from preservatives that a lot of people may want to avoid in their whey powders.

Best Whey Protein for Women

Though this protein powder isn’t marketed specifically toward women, it’s a great choice for anyone hunting for a powder that’s low in fat, carbs, and sugars, but high in protein. 

Legion Whey Isolate Protein Powder

At just 100 to 130 calories per serving (depending on flavor), Legion Whey Isolate packs 22 grams of whey protein isolate into each scoop. It contains only one and a half grams of fat (or less, depending on flavor), two to four grams of carbs, and zero grams of sugar. 

This formula is ideal for women who may be looking for a leaner blend. It’s also naturally flavored and sweetened, so if you’re trying to stay away from artificial ingredients, this is a great pick for you. Another added bonus: This whey isolate comes in 13 different flavors, as well as an unflavored option. You have the choice of buying a two-pound tub, or if you know what flavor you like, you can opt for a bulk buy five-pound tub.

Who Should Buy Legion Whey Isolate Protein Powder

• Women who are looking for a lower-calorie whey protein with very few carbs, fats, and sugars will appreciate the macros in this formula. 
• Customers who are interested in more unique flavors will like that there are 13 options to choose from here. 
• If you don’t want to consume any artificial sweeteners or flavors in your whey protein, this pick is for you. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy Legion Whey Isolate Protein Powder

• Folks who are trying to bulk up may want a higher-calorie protein supplement that contains more carbs. 
• Athletes who are interested in a blend of proteins or a whey concentrate; this pick is pure whey isolate.

Though this supplement is a solid choice for anyone looking for a whey protein isolate, it’s marketed specifically to women. It’s lower in calories, fat, sugar, and carbs than many whey proteins, and it comes in a wide variety of flavors.

Read our full review of Legion Whey Isolate Protein Powder.

Best Hydrolyzed Whey Protein 

When it comes down to it, most proteins will offer just about the same muscle-building benefits. That said, price is a significant factor for many folks, and we think that Dymatize offers one of the best quality hydrolyzed proteins at a competitive price. 

Dymatize ISO 100

Why Dymatize? Besides the fact that it tastes great with water — some may find it too sweet — the first ingredient in the product is hydrolyzed whey protein. We dive deeper into the science further down in this article, but the long and short of it is that hydrolyzed whey absorbs faster than other forms of whey. 

That’s because enzymes partly break it down, and this fast absorption is what makes it more expensive. However, Dymatize ISO 100 offers one of the best price points for hydrolyzed whey that you will find. On a positive note, Dymatize offers nine flavors including Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies & Cream, Gourmet Chocolate, Gourmet Vanilla, Pebbles™ Birthday Cake, Cocoa Pebbles™, Fruity Pebbles™, Dunkin™ Mocha Latte, and Dunkin™ Cappuccino.

Who Should Buy Dymatize ISO 100

• People who like mixing whey with water; this powder tastes great without adding milk or any other ingredients to the shake.
• Low-fat dieters; there’s no fat at all in most of Dymatize’s flavors.
• Anyone who’s interested in an easy-to-absorb whey protein — hydrolyzed whey is typically your best bet.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Dymatize ISO 100

• People who are looking for all of their whey to be hydrolyzed; while it’s the first ingredient, there’s also some regular whey isolate in there.
• Folks without a sweet tooth; this product is really quite sweet. That’s why it’s great with water.

If you’re a serious lifter who desires the low-fat, low-carb formula that hydrolyzed whey offers but can’t deal with the sticker shock, then this is the pick for you. 

Read our full review of Dymatize ISO 100.

The Benefits of Whey Protein Powder

Protein powders usually offer a higher protein concentration than food, but they may also lack other nutrients that naturally accompany proteins found in meat, fish, dairy, and whole grains. Protein from food offers vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, and healthy fats often unavailable in protein powder. We would never recommend that you take protein powder as a complete protein substitute — just a dietary supplement.

There’s plenty of debate among bodybuilders and strength athletes alike about whether a post-workout shake significantly improves recovery and muscle growth.

Some research suggests that taking a protein shake after you work out might be better for muscle gain than whole foods. A study published in Physiological Reports suggests that taking 40 grams of whey protein is better than 20 grams, so maybe you should have two protein shakes. (1) Another study suggests pre-workout protein is even more important. (2) As for the type of protein you should consume, does it have to be whey? Brian St. Pierre, MS, RD, at Precision Nutrition told us:

“Whey protein has an incredibly high biological value, incredibly high leucine content, and it’s digested rapidly so you get this quick rise in muscle protein synthesis. And if you look at short-term studies, two hours after a workout you see this rapid rise in protein synthesis with whey more so than soy.”

Leucine is linked with muscle protein synthesis, and whey is super high in leucine, according to a 2012 protein comparison published in Nutrition & Metabolism. (3)(4)

If you’re regularly engaging in strenuous exercise, you need to calculate your macros and consume a relatively large amount of protein (and calories overall) to build muscle, recover properly, and get stronger for the next workout. Whey is a fantastic way to help with that.

[Related: What’s the Difference Between Grass-Fed Whey Vs. Regular Whey?]

How We Chose the Best Whey Protein

It may look uncomplicated, but assessing the key differences between different protein powders is no easy task. It’s important to emphasize that some of the areas we note below aren’t necessarily good or bad. Some athletes prefer foods without artificial sweeteners, and some try to limit soy. That said, there’s not much evidence that either has adverse effects; we simply point them out in case they are a problem for you. Here are the ingredients and factors we took into consideration when putting together this guide.

Types of Protein Powders

Whey proteins typically contain one or more of three kinds of protein: concentrate, isolate, and/or hydrolysate. They each have their own pros and cons: Whey concentrate is cheaper and extracted with an enzyme or acid; whey isolate is lower in fat and carbs; hydrolyzed whey digests more quickly and could be safer for those with allergies. All of this is taken into account, and we’ve included all types of whey on this list — no matter your preference, there’s an option for you here. 

Protein Per Calorie

A gram of protein has four calories, and many measure the protein density of a supplement by how many calories it provides per gram. If a shake offers 25 grams of protein, then you’re getting 100 calories (if there aren’t any added carbs and fat.) To keep calories lower, you typically want a protein powder with fewer grams of carbs and fats. So, pay attention to this number.

Artificial Sweeteners

We’re not taking a stance on whether artificial sweeteners are unhealthy, but we can’t ignore that many athletes prefer to avoid them. To that end, we’ll point out the presence of aspartame, sucralose, acesulfame potassium, and anything else used to sweeten the product, like stevia or sugar alcohols, which can cause digestive issues among a small portion of the population.

[Related: Everything You Need to Know to Build Your First Workout Program]

Protein Powder Additives

Some people avoid soy at all costs, but soy is a trendy addition to protein supplements as a means to improve mixability. Perhaps you have issues with thickeners and stabilizers like xanthan gum or carrageenan, which can cause digestive discomfort. Again this is about your preference, but we take these ingredients into account.

Protein Powder Taste

Chalky, smooth, sweet, earthy, bitter…there are many ways a protein powder can taste. We consider the real taste test to be how a protein powder tastes with water — it’s not as hard to make something that tastes good with milk.

What’s In Your Protein Powder?

Aside from protein, there can be a range of added nutrients included in your protein powder. Here’s a guide to the most common ingredients you’re likely to find in a tub.

Whey Concentrate, Isolate, or Hydrolysate

Usually a byproduct of cheesemaking, whey concentrate is the cheapest form of protein and contains the most fat and carbs, including lactose. Whey isolate has been processed through a microfilter and results in fewer carbs and less fat, sometimes none at all. 

In contrast, hydrolysate (aka hydrolyzed whey) has been further broken down with enzymes, so it digests the fastest.

Casein

Sometimes included with whey protein powders, casein is the other protein found in milk. (Milk protein is about 80 percent casein, 20 percent whey.) Used to make cheese — it’s not a byproduct of cheesemaking, it is the product — casein digests more slowly and is more filling. It also thickens really easily, so it’s great for making protein puddings and “ice cream.”

Artificial and Natural Sweeteners

Protein powders often contain either artificial sweeteners like sucralose or acesulfame potassium, as they’re widely recognized as safe for human consumption. 

The FDA recommends a daily limit of 15 milligrams of artificial sweeteners. Some of the protein powders we’ve included on this list contain no artificial sweeteners though. These products are sweetened naturally with ingredients like Stevia. 

[Related: The Best Types of Supplements on the Market Worth Your Money]

Lecithin

This is a fatty substance used to improve mixability. Lecithin is usually made from soy, but sometimes you’ll find the more expensive sunflower lecithin in products that are more geared toward the soy-phobic Paleo crowd. There’s no good reason to fear soy lecithin unless you have an allergy or sensitivity — reams of research have found no correlation between soy ingestion and reduced testosterone or muscle mass. (5)(6)

Digestive Enzymes

Digestive Enzymes may help break down proteins, lipase fat, amylase carbs, and lactase lactose, and many protein powders include a blend of these enzymes (which may include Protease, Lipase, or Amylase). 

Some interesting evidence suggests they might help to increase the absorption rate and reduce the risk of indigestion. (7)

When To Take Whey Protein Powder

There isn’t necessarily a “best time” to take your protein powder. Just because you don’t consume your shake directly after your workout does not mean you’ll lose the muscle you worked so hard for throughout your session. As long as you are consuming enough protein throughout the course of the day, your gains should remain. 

If you can get a shake in immediately after a workout, that’s a great way to ensure you’re boosting your overall protein intake, but it’s not a requirement to keep you on track to hit your goals. 

You Don’t Have to Take Protein Before, During, or After a Workout

There are many myths perpetuated by 1990s bodybuilding magazines — one of them is that you need to down a protein shake minutes after your workout to feed your starving muscles. While that might not be a bad idea for an Olympia competitor who already has all of their calories, macros, micros, sleep, hormone levels, and everything else dialed in, it doesn’t matter for the average person. Your total calories and macronutrients determine whether or not you gain muscle and lose fat, not when you eat.

How Much Does Whey Protein Powder Cost?

If you just look at the cost of the container of whey protein that you’re buying, it’s going to be hard to tell what you’re actually getting for your money. To find out how much whey protein you’re actually getting for your money, you’ll want to compare the cost of the container to the number of servings — you’ll likely find the cost per serving to be around $1 to $2, varying by brand and ingredients. The average price of whey protein on this list is $1.78 per serving. Of course, there are some exceptions to this price range and you’ll notice a higher price based on the quality of ingredients, dosages, and type of protein.

Best Whey Protein Powder Overall	Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate	$62.99 $2.09 per serving
Best Whey Protein for Men	Huge Supplements Whey Protein	$44.95 $1.50 per serving
Best Whey for Weight Loss	Kaged Whey Protein Isolate	$59.99 $1.42 per serving
Best Whey Protein for Muscle Gain	Huge Supplements Whey Protein	$44.95 $1.50 per serving
Best Tasting Whey Protein	Onnit Whey Protein	$59.95 $2.00 per serving
Best Whey Protein Isolate	Swolverine Whey Isolate	$62.99 $2.00 per serving
Best Grass-Fed Whey Protein	Xwerks Grow Protein Powder	$59.00 $2.00 per serving
Best Organic Whey Protein	Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein	$49.99 $1.67 per serving
Best Whey Protein Meal Replacement	Transparent Labs MRP	$59.99 $2.00 per serving
Best Sustainably Sourced Whey Protein	Onnit Whey Protein	$59.95 $2.00 per serving
Best Vegan Non-Whey Protein	Swolverine Plant Protein	$52.99 $2.11 per serving
Best Whey Protein for Bulking	Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder	$59.99 $2.00 per serving
Best Whey Protein for Women	Legion Whey Isolate Protein Powder	$49.99 $1.67 per serving
Best Hydrolyzed Whey Protein	Dymatize ISO 100	$74.99 $1.05 per serving

Cost is affected by the type of whey powder, additives, protein density, and other factors. The more natural, organic, or transparent your protein powder is, the more likely it is that the cost will be higher. In addition, added helpful ingredients (like digestive enzymes or probiotics), may also jack up the price tag. You’ll find that the most basic protein powders (some of which may include artificial flavorings) will generally be the least expensive. 

What to Consider Before You Buy Whey Protein Powder

Protein powder is just dehydrated milk with some sweeteners, but it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the process of buying a whey protein powder. Here are the most important things to keep in mind when purchasing a new protein powder.

Whey Concentrate Might Not Be Great for Those With Lactose Sensitivities

It’s the cheapest form and has the most calories, but whey concentrate isn’t bad: The difference is usually two or three grams of protein when compared to isolate. But concentrate does contain lactose. It’s not a lot but consider buying a hydrolyzed whey — which is typically easier on the stomach — if you’re really sensitive.

[Related: The Best Supplements for Bodybuilding]

Hydrolyzed Whey Is Best for the Elite Few

It’s the most expensive form of whey, and yes, some studies have found it useful for athletes who work out twice per day and need to recover really fast. However, for the average person, it won’t make a practical difference. A caveat here is that hydrolyzed whey is so broken down that it’s usually the whey of choice for people with milk allergies. (8)

(If you have a milk allergy or any food allergy for that matter, consult with your doctor before taking a protein powder.) The downsides of hydrolyzed whey — that it’s more expensive and tastes worse — probably make the added cost not worth it for most people.

You Probably Don’t Need to Worry About Soy Lecithin

The vast majority of protein powders contain a dash of soy lecithin because it helps to improve mixability. Concerns over soy raising estrogen levels or lowering testosterone levels have been floating around the strength training world for years, but studies show that most people’s hormone levels are unaffected by soy. If you want to learn more about the effects of soy, check out our video below where we dive deeper into the studies surrounding this topic. 

And note that if you’d rather avoid plant estrogen, you’ll also need to cut out coffee, oatmeal, apples, and a lot of other foods, too.

Grass-Fed Whey Probably Won’t Have a Practical Difference On Your Health

Grass-fed dairy is indeed higher in antioxidants and healthful fats, like Omega-3s and CLA, than regular dairy. (9)(10) That said, whey has almost all of the fat taken out of it anyways. For context, people supplement with one or two grams of omega-3s when consciously trying to consume more. Whey has about three grams of fat, and less than five percent are polyunsaturated fats. And even less of that fat is omega-3s. (11) 

The same dosage goes for CLA, of which you’d find 0.06 grams in a scoop of grass-fed whey. (10) Grass-fed cows probably live happier lives with more time spent outdoors, which is a valid reason to prefer it. But don’t think taking grass-fed whey over regular whey is like taking a multivitamin. (12) 

[Related: Best Macros Calculator For Tracking Muscle Gain and Fat Loss]

Final Word

There are a variety of protein types on the market, and each has its own advantages and drawbacks. We tried to pick the best for as many scenarios as we could because we know everyone is different and has different goals. Finding the right protein that interacts properly with your gut microbiota and that you actually enjoy taking can take some trial and error — that’s why we laid out a few options that could work for different situations.

It wasn’t easy to land on these top picks; we had to weigh ingredients, effectiveness, taste, and many other factors, including how different consumers value totally different qualities in their supplements. But we’re confident that we’ve selected the best whey protein powders no matter what your reasons are for turning to protein shakes. Each of the picks on this list is of the highest quality, so no matter which one you choose you’ll be getting a top-tier product. All we can say now is bottoms up.

FAQs

References

1. Macnaughton LS, et al. The response of muscle protein synthesis following whole-body resistance exercise is greater following 40 g than 20 g of ingested whey protein. Physiol Rep. 2016 Aug;4(15).
2. Stark M, et al. Protein timing and its effects on muscular hypertrophy and strength in individuals engaged in weight-training. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2012 Dec 14;9(1):54.
3. Norton LE, et al. Leucine content of dietary proteins is a determinant of postprandial skeletal muscle protein synthesis in adult rats. Nutr Metab (Lond). 2012 Jul 20;9(1):67.
4. Breen L, et al. Leucine: a nutrient ‘trigger’ for muscle anabolism, but what more? J Physiol. 2012 May 1;590(9):2065-6.
5. Hamilton-Reeves JM, et al. Clinical studies show no effects of soy protein or isoflavones on reproductive hormones in men: results of a meta-analysis. Fertil Steril. 2010 Aug;94(3):997-1007.
6. Kalman D, et al. Effect of protein source and resistance training on body composition and sex hormones. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2007 Jul 23;4:4.
7. Oben, J et al. An open label study to determine the effects of an oral proteolytic enzyme system on whey protein concentrate metabolism in healthy males. J Int Soc Sports Nutr . 2008 Jul 24;5:10.
8. Potier, M et al. Comparison of digestibility and quality of intact proteins with their respective hydrolysates. J AOAC Int . Jul-Aug 2008;91(4):1002-5.
9. La Terra, S et al. Increasing pasture intakes enhances polyunsaturated fatty acids and lipophilic antioxidants in plasma and milk of dairy cows fed total mix ration. Dairy Sci. Technol. 90, 687–698 (2010).
10. Dhiman, TR et al. Conjugated linoleic acid content of milk from cows fed different diets. J Dairy Sci . 1999 Oct;82(10):2146-56.
11. Månsson,HL et al. Fatty acids in bovine milk fat. Food Nutr Res . 2008;52.
12. Jude, C et al. The environmental impact of corn-fed vs. grass-fed beef finishing systems. J. Anim. Sci. 88 (E-supplement 2):686.