NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate Review (2024): Transparent, Tasteful, and Wallet-Friendly, According To Our Experts

Okay, so we understand that choosing the best protein powder for your needs can be overwhelming, what with all the available flavors, formulations, and fluctuations in price. NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate, on the other hand, makes this process a little more simplified with just three available tastes, a lean makeup delivering 25 grams of the vital amino acid, and a budget-friendly price point starting at $1.23 per serving.

NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate can be a solid pick for athletes looking for a more refined protein option without excessive carbohydrates or total fats. Plus, the third-party testing and NOW Sports’ ISO-certified in-house lab further instill a sense of transparency and trust with this supplement. In this NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate review, we’ll look closely at this popular whey isolate’s formulation along with other qualities such as taste, solubility, and more. For more information on how we test products for our content, be sure to read the BarBend supplement testing methodology page.

Medical disclaimer: 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. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.

Main Takeaways

• NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate is a protein-centric formulation with 25 grams per serving, up to 2 grams of total carbohydrates, and zero total fats.
• This whey isolate protein powder is only available in three flavors, so those looking for more variety may want to opt for a different supplement profile.
• This popular protein option features budget-friendly pricing with costs per serving beginning at $1.23.

NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate Specs

Price Per Serving	Starting at $1.23
Protein Per Serving	25g
Calories Per Serving	110-120
Protein Source	Whey protein isolate
Available Flavors	Creamy Chocolate, Unflavored, Creamy Vanilla
Third-Party Testing	Yes (Informed Choice, Informed Sport)

NOW Sports (also referred to as NOW Foods) offers its Whey Protein Isolate formulation in an array of container sizes, from 19-serving tubs to 10-pound, 162-serving bags. This variety can help keep the costs of this best whey isolate lower than others. It can also make NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate a worthwhile solution for those that prefer to buy their supplements in bulk. Keep in mind, though, that not every available flavor is sold in the same container sizes, so you may need to compromise slightly if you want the most bang for your buck.

Macronutrients-wise, this high-quality protein powder uses whey protein isolate as its main protein source. Whey isolate is one of the many different types of protein available and is marked by a further refinement process during manufacturing that can help remove excess carbohydrates and lactose. Studies suggest that whey protein isolate powder can still support increases in skeletal muscle mass and post-workout recovery, but does so without higher carb and fat counts. (1)

This could be beneficial for keto athletes taking on a low-carb diet or those looking to boost their protein intake without worry of overindulging on other macronutrients. Whey protein isolate supplements can also be more efficient for fast digestion as there are fewer carbs and fats to slow down the internal process.

We do note, though, that the added refinement associated with whey protein isolate does tend to make these powders cost more than whey protein concentrate — the lowest-quality protein option that contains up to 80% pure protein by weight.

In addition to the heightened presence of protein, NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate also lists its typical amino acid profile across its ingredients list. This information can be extremely helpful for athletes since it provides further insight to the actual dosages of essential amino acids and branched-chain amino acids contained in each level-scoop serving.

Other common ingredients across the flavors include sunflower lecithin, xanthan gum, stevia leaf extract, natural flavors, and xylitol. “Given the presence of stevia and xylitol within this formulation, I do caution athletes with known stomach sensitivities to pay close attention to the ingredients,” notes Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, registered dietitian nutritionist and our expert reviewer. “Studies have shown that stevia and xylitol consumption can lead to GI distress in certain individuals.” (2)(3)

Given the use of whey isolate as its main protein source, NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate also contains milk, a known allergen. If you are sensitive to lactose or wish to not ingest dairy-based products, we recommend opting for one of the best dairy-free protein powders over this formulation. That said, the formulation is still non-GMO, low-sodium, soy-free, egg-free, sugar-free, and made without gluten.

As far as flavors, this NOW Sports offering is available in your classic Creamy Chocolate and Creamy Vanilla, as well as an Unflavored variety. Granted, the flavor roster is shorter than other protein powders on the market, but playing the hits never really goes out of style, right? Plus, having only three tastes to choose from can cut shopping times down tremendously rather than trying to decide between multiple flavors for a month-long stock.

Lastly, NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate is one of the more transparent protein powders we’ve tested, carrying third-party seals of approval from both Informed Choice and Informed Sport. Additionally, the powder is manufactured in an NPA A-rated GMP-certified facility, and NOW Sports even does extensive in-house testing to ensure the quality and purity of its products.

Pros

High protein counts with low total carbohydrates and fats

Cost-effective protein supplement with costs per serving beginning at $1.23

Multiple third-party certifications

Cons

Limited to just three flavor options

Solubility can be an issue, per our tester

Contains stevia and xylitol, which may cause GI distress

Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate

Of course, even a protein supplement as transparent and lean as NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate isn’t for everyone. For example, some athletes may want the on-the-go convenience of one of the best protein shakes while others may simply prefer a formulation with higher carb and fat counts. Below are some groups we think may benefit from this NOW Sports offering and some that may want to opt for a different protein supplement.

Recommended for:

• Active individuals looking for a high-protein, fast-digesting powder to support their nutrition goals and in-gym performance
• Budget-minded athletes that prefer to buy their protein powder in bulk
• People looking for a transparent protein supplement with multiple third-party accreditations

Not Recommended for:

• Athletes that often get bored with flavor profiles
• Individuals looking for high-calorie protein powders as a means for effective meal replacement
• Those sensitive to natural sweeteners such as stevia leaf extract and xylitol

Our Experience Using NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate

We here at BarBend have tested over 100 different products across the gambit of protein powders — from the best casein proteins to the best powders for beginners, the best for weight reduction, and more. In testing NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate we borrowed insights from these previous experiences, analyzing the supplement in such categories as formulation, taste, and solubility among others. We then rated these findings on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) to give you a better depiction of how this protein option fares within the category.

Ingredients and Formulation

One of the standout features of NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate is its lean formulation. You’re primarily getting protein from this makeup with up to 2 grams of total carbohydrates (which can be up to 2 grams of dietary fiber) and 0.5 grams of total fats. “I do appreciate that you’re paying for whey protein and that’s exactly what you get with this formulation,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, our expert reviewer.

Additionally, we appreciate that NOW Sports lists the typical amino acid profile alongside the ingredients list for added clarity. This can help you understand how much of each amino acid — including BCAAs like l-leucine, l-isoleucine, and l-valine — you’re consuming with each scoop. These BCAAs are also dosed in a roughly 2:1:1 ratio, which is the recommended displacement you’ll often find in some of the best BCAA supplements. (4)

Of course, this formulation is not perfect. Bourgeois rates NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate at 4.25 out of 5 given the presence of natural sweeteners xylitol and stevia leaf extract. “These natural sweetening agents can be perceived as better than artificial alternatives, but some may experience some GI distress,” she adds. (2)(3)

It’s also worth noting that NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate also contains key vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, potassium, and vitamin D, albeit in small dosages. If you’re looking to hit your recommended daily allowance (RDA) for these micronutrients, it can be best to eat a well-rounded diet of various whole-food sources or opt for one of the best multivitamins on the market.

Taste

While NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate doesn’t have a litany of available flavors to choose from, the brand does well with what it offers. Our tester scores the taste at a perfect 5 out of 5, stating, “This may be one of my favorite chocolate protein powders of recent memory. I really like the creaminess and wouldn’t hesitate to add this to other beverages like cold brew.”

[Related: Best-Tasting Protein Powders]

In terms of concocting the best drink possible, we do feel this powder fares best in milk. “You get a (naturally) creamier consistency, whereas this protein is a little thin when mixed with regular water,” adds our tester.

As a final note on taste, we also had one tester, a certified personal trainer, trial the Unflavored variety. Per their findings, the protein is “unflavored” when mixed with other ingredients within a smoothie, but can leave something to be desired when taken on its own. If you’re interested in this Unflavored option, we recommend using it as an additive to other drink recipes rather than a standalone protein supplement.

Solubility

When it comes to solubility, we recommend pairing this NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate to one of the best shaker bottles, as mixing this powder can be a hassle at times. You definitely need a blending apparatus within your vessel to help break up the clumps. 

Our tester also rates the solubility at 4 out of 5 since you do need to shake this powder vigorously to achieve the proper mouthfeel. “It felt like I was shaking my cup for over 20 seconds, and even then I experienced a bit of grit in my sips.” This is also why we recommend using a milk base over water, as we’ve found that the thicker foundation can be better at masking some of the present clumps.

One potential cause of this lower-than-average-mixability could be from the powder to liquid ratio recommended by NOW Sports. Per the packaging, you’re suggested to mix a single scoop (a serving size of up to 33 grams of powder) to 8 fluid ounces of your preferred liquid. This can be a lot of protein powder for the 8 ounces to mix, so it makes sense that combining the two elements takes some doing.

Price Per Serving

The cost starts at $1.23 per serving, putting it below the average price of roughly $1.70 we’ve come to associate with other whey protein isolate powders. We also like how NOW Sports offers this powder in multiple container sizes, giving you the opportunity to buy in bulk as opposed to consistent repeat orders.

We rate NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate at 4.5 out of 5 for the category, too, given its wide availability across multiple third-party retailers. You can find this popular supplement amongst some of the best protein powders on Amazon or pick it up from other popular sports nutrition outlets, such as iherb.com and vitacost.com.

Third-Party Testing

If you’re looking for reassurance that your protein powder is trustworthy and pure, third-party testing can help alleviate any doubts. These seals of approvals indicate the powder has gone through independent examination and features an accurate ingredients list free of banned substances. In addition to NOW Sports’ rigorous in-house testing, Whey Protein Isolate also carries approvals from both Informed Choice and Informed Sport — two prominent independent testing labs. As such, we score this protein powder at 5 out of 5 for the category.

What to Consider Before Buying NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate

To ensure your protein shake is good for you and that your needs are being met with every sip, it helps to consider a few factors when working through your shopping experience. Below are some qualities we recommend pondering over as you look for that ideal protein powder to add to your cart.

• Protein Type: In addition to the variety of animal-based and plant-based protein powders, there are also subcategories that can present a different formulation with a variety of benefits, such as faster digestion rates, increased satiety, and more. Do some research to find the best protein powder type for your nutrition needs and budget.
• Protein Content: Samina Qureshi, RD tells BarBend, “Each person’s protein needs are unique to them and will vary. You can calculate your protein needs by multiplying your weight in kilograms by 0.8 to 1. (5) This will give you a general idea of how much protein to consume, but other considerations will impact your daily protein needs, including age, gender, activity levels, infections, or chronic health conditions like kidney disease.”
• Available Flavors: You’re more inclined to maintain a sense of consistency with your whey protein powder if the taste is appealing to your palate. Look for protein powders offered in an enjoyable profile and one you wouldn’t mind gulping down multiple days in a row. It can also be helpful to look for powders with multiple available flavors since changing up tastes every now and again can be an effective way to defend against flavor fatigue.
• Price Per Serving: Hitting your daily value of protein shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg. Crunch some numbers and seek a protein powder that fits comfortably within your budget. You can also look for supplements available in larger container sizes. This practice can help you lower the costs per serving as a perk to buying larger stocks of protein.

NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate Vs. Competitors

If you hadn’t gathered by now, there are plenty of protein powder options on the market these days and choosing between different formulations can be troublesome online. To make the process easier, we’ve compiled statistics from two popular whey protein isolate supplements we feel compare reasonably well to NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate — Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate and Jacked Factory Authentic ISO.

	NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate	Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate	Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
Price Per Serving	Starting at $1.23	$2	$1.33
Protein Per Serving	25g	28g	25-27g
Calories Per Serving	110-120	130-140	110-130
Protein Source	Whey protein isolate	Grass-fed whey protein isolate	Grass-fed whey protein isolate
Available Flavors	Creamy Chocolate, Unflavored, Creamy Vanilla	Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, Milk Chocolate, French Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Unflavored, Dark Chocolate, Strawberry Milkshake, Cinnamon French Toast, Mocha, Vanilla Peanut Butter, Chocolate Chip Banana Bread, Mint Chocolate Chip, Blueberry Pancakes	Chocolate Peanut Butter, Milk Chocolate, Cookies & Cream, Blueberry Muffin, Cinnamon French Toast, Unflavored, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie, Vanilla, Peanut Butter
Third-Party Testing	Informed Choice, Informed Sport	Informed Choice, Informed Protein	None

Like NOW Sports, Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate carries multiple third-party certifications, adding to the reassurance that what’s on the ingredients list is actually contained within the formulation. This TL offering also boasts more flavor options, making it suitable for active individuals that prefer to change up their menu on a regular schedule. However, we still view NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate as a high-quality option given the lower price point and multiple container sizes.

Jacked Factory Authentic ISO is very comparable to NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate in that both powders feature similar costs per serving, protein counts, and calories. However, those seeking third-party-accredited supplements would fare better with NOW Sports as Jacked Factory Authentic ISO does not carry third-party certification. “Authentic ISO is also high in sodium with some flavors delivering up to 300 milligrams per serving,” adds Chelsea Rae Bourgeois. “If you’re watching your sodium intake, this may be a less desirable powder.”

Places to Buy NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate

Whey Protein Isolate is available directly from the NOW Sports retail site. You can also find this best whey protein powder on other popular third-party retailers including Amazon, Target, and vitacost.com.

Customer Experience and Brand Reputation

Based in the USA, NOW Sports has been a prominent manufacturer of sports nutrition supplements for over 50 years. The brand’s dedication to superior quality and effective ingredients can be seen in NOW Sports’ roster of products, which includes some of the best collagen peptide supplements, egg white protein powders, plant-based proteins, and more. For any inquiries regarding NOW Sports, the brand can be reached via the “Contact Us” link found on the brand’s retail site.

Whey Protein Isolate is one of NOW Sports’ more popular offerings with an average 4.3 out of 5 rating on Amazon based on roughly 8,500 customer responses. “I’m no expert but I feel like this is one of the better Whey proteins out there. No added junk, just pure whey,” notes one positive customer response.

Our Final Verdict on NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate

With its transparent ingredients list, multiple third-party certifications, approachable price point, and enjoyable flavors, NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate can be an excellent protein option for a wide range of athletes, including budget-conscious individuals and low-carb athletes. The simplified formulation also places it amongst the best clean protein powders. While the flavor roster isn’t as adventurous as other proteins we’ve tested, we do enjoy the palate-pleasing profiles of the available Creamy Chocolate, Creamy Vanilla, and Unflavored varieties.

When searching for a new protein powder to add to your regimen, be sure to pay close attention to the listed macronutrients to ensure your daily intake is improved with supplementation rather than worsened. It can also be helpful to look at different protein types, especially if you’re sensitive to dairy-sourced products or simply want to explore different methods to fuel your performance. In the end, the best protein for you is the one that matches your needs and wants best, so do some research, finalize your budget, and get started on powering up your nutrition.

NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate FAQs

References

1. dos Santos, E. M., Moreira, A. S., Huguenin, G. V., Tibiriça, E., & De Lorenzo, A. (2023). Effects of whey protein isolate on body composition, muscle mass, and strength of chronic heart failure patients: A randomized clinical trial. Nutrients, 15(10), 2320. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37242203/
2. Kasti, A., Nikolaki, M., Synodinou, K., Katsas, K., Petsis, K., Lambrinou, S., Pyrousis, I., & Triantafyllou, K. (2022). The effects of stevia consumption on gut bacteria: Friend or foe? Microorganisms, 10(4), 744. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9028423/
3. Meyer-Gerspach, A. C., Drewe, J., Verbeure, W., Roux, C. W., Dellatorre-Teixeira, L., Rehfeld, J. F., Holst, J. J., Hartmann, B., Tack, J., Peterli, R., Beglinger, C., & Wölnerhanssen, B. K. (2021). Effect of the natural sweetener xylitol on gut hormone secretion and gastric emptying in humans: A pilot dose-ranging study. Nutrients, 13(1), 174. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7828005/
4. Zhang, L., Li, F., Guo, Q., Duan, Y., Wang, W., Yang, Y., Yin, Y., Gong, S., Han, M., & Yin, Y. (2021). Different proportions of branched-chain amino acids modulate lipid metabolism in a finishing pig model. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 69(25), 7037–7048. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34110799/ 
5. Wu, G. (2016). Dietary protein intake and human health. Food & Function, 7(3), 1251–1265. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26797090/