11 Best Whey Protein Powders of 2024, and How to Choose the Best Option for You (original) (raw)

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When clicking through the internet to find the best protein powders, odds are that a majority of your results will come in the form of whey protein. Whey protein is a foundational supplement thanks to its efficiency in delivering the vital macronutrient in an affordable, tasty, and (oftentimes) easy-to-drink fashion. The best whey protein powders, though, take daily nutrition up a notch with well-rounded formulations designed to help you get the most out of your in-gym work.

With so many brands and products to choose from, though, it’s vital that you have a game plan together before searching for your go-to powder. To provide a roadmap for your purchasing journey, we’ve tested dozens of high-quality products from some of the industry’s most popular brands and consulted with our in-house experts to compile a list of our favorite whey protein powders available today. Get your shaker bottles ready as we dive into this sweet, sweet round-up.

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 or nutritionist before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine.

Best Whey Protein Powders Video

Join BarBend tester nutrition coach Jake Herod, and registered dietitian nutritionist Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, as they unpack some of our favorite whey protein powders from Transparent Labs, XWERKS, Optimum Nutrition, and more.

Best Whey Protein Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder

25% Off + Deals on Orders $150+

Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate

Transparent Labs Whey Protein 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. Transparent Labs is also offering 25% off sitewide from November 28 through December 3, and all orders over $150 will receive a free gift bundle including a gym bag, shaker bottle, and free samples of popular products.

Specs

What You Should Know

We love Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder for its high protein count per serving and vast flavor variety. This one is also third-party tested and made with no artificial sugars or additives, making for a clean formula.

Pros

28 grams of protein per serving

Contains additional micronutrients

Cons

Uses stevia, which can have an aftertaste

Why We Like It

A solid whey protein will have a balanced formula that offers a high dose of protein with minimal fat, and low carbs — this pick is exactly that. Plus, the 28 grams of protein content in each serving is roughly 3 to 8 grams more than you’ll find in most whey protein powders. In terms of formulation, we gave this powder a 5 out of 5 for its simple and effective makeup. “It’s hands down one of the best protein powders I’ve had, and I don’t say that about just any supp,” one of our testers says.

“Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate packs in the protein without unnecessary fluff,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, a registered dietitian. “Each scoop provides 28 grams of protein and minimal amounts of carbs and fat.”

Since this is a whey isolate, the formulation has been filtered to reduce its lactose and fat content, resulting in servings that contain just 0 to 2 grams of carbs and 0 to 3 grams of fat, depending on the flavor. Impressive as its macros are, though, it does pack 15 grams of cholesterol, which is notable, as competitors like Xwerks Grow and Legion Whey+ contain no cholesterol at all (more on these protein powders later).

In terms of third-party testing, we also gave this product a 5 out of 5. We like that Transparent Labs lives up to its name, testing their products with labs like Labdoor, Informed Choice, and Informed Protein. “This is one of the only protein powders I’ve seen that shows you everything — including the weight of each of its ingredients,” said our tester.

Based on our own testing, we graded Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate at a B overall for purity. This protein sample scored in the top 25 percent among all sampled powders for heavy metals, and the top 10 percent for the presence of bisphenols, phthalates, and pesticides.

Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate Protein Scorecard

BarBend worked with an accredited lab to gather testing data on heavy metal content in Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate.

We experienced no digestive issues or side effects when using this product, nor were we left with any chunks or floaties after mixing the powder with milk or water. “It also made me feel full, which is a bonus,” said our tester. We rated the powder a 5 out of 5 for solubility.

We also gave it a 5 out of 5 for taste. You can choose from 15 different flavors, which range from straightforward French Vanilla flavor options to playful Cinnamon French Toast and Blueberry Pancakes. Our tester tried the Peppermint Hot Chocolate flavor and found it evocative of the holidays. “Throw in some marshmallows and a little whipped cream and it feels like Christmas,” they said. “I wish it was just a little bit more peppermint, but it’s delightful.”

The price is slightly higher than some other protein powders at around 59.99,whichworksouttoabout59.99, which works out to about 59.99,whichworksouttoabout2 per serving. Our team gave the price a 3.5 out of 5 rating based on our methodology.

Read our full Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder Review.

Best Budget Whey Protein: Nutricost Whey Protein Powder

Nutricost Whey Protein Powder

Nutricost Whey Protein Powder

Need a protein powder that’s light on cost yet heavy on flavor? Available in four traditional tastes — Chocolate Peanut Butter, Chocolate, Strawberry Milkshake, and Vanilla — this Nutricost offering is available for less than $1 per serving, which can be ideal for athletes looking to build a well-rounded supplement regimen on a budget.

Specs

What You Should Know

For those shopping on a budget, we love Nutricost’s Whey Protein Powder. Not only does it only cost around $0.87 per serving, it also offers a solid formula that’s third-party tested with excellent solubility.

Pros

Blends easily in water and milk

Why We Like It

Good whey protein doesn’t need to break the bank. Take Nutricost’s Whey Protein Powder, for example. Available in 5-pound and 2-pound containers, you can get this enjoyable protein supplement for less than 0.90perserving—ametricwellbelowtheaverage0.90 per serving — a metric well below the average 0.90perserving—ametricwellbelowtheaverage1 to $2 you can expect to pay with other whey proteins on the market. “This is fantastic mixed with a milk product, either in a blender or a blender cup,” says one of our testers. “It’s super creamy. It won’t taste like you’re on a budget.”

This Amazon-available whey protein hasn’t caught our eye just based on the price, though. Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, found this Nutricost offering to rival her favorite proteins when it comes to taste. “I’m traditionally not a fan of peanut butter, but this protein powder actually had me enjoying every sip,” she said of the Chocolate Peanut Butter variety. She also rated the taste at 4 out of 5, stating, “It’s not overly sweet, and I had no issues getting a shake down each and every day.”

Of course, this Nutricost profile does only come in four flavored offerings, which is a smaller roster compared to other whey proteins we’ve tried. You’re essentially left with the traditional milkshake flavors, so this may not be the protein of choice for more adventurous palates.

Meier also scored the solubility at a perfect 5 out of 5. She had no issues blending this powder with milk or water, and reported no clumps or unwanted residue.

We’d also like to point out that this whey protein option is sweetened with sucralose. While Meier experienced no unwanted side effects, we understand that artificial sweeteners can lead to some GI distress in some. Be sure to take your personal sensitivities into consideration before signing up for this budget-friendly whey concentrate.

Best Whey Protein for Women: Gainful Whey Protein

Gainful Protein Powder

Gainful Protein Powder

Gainful Protein Powder is fully customizable, allowing you to get a product that meets your specific health needs, including losing weight, gaining weight, or building muscle.

Specs

What You Should Know

Gainful protein offers a unique customizable formula where you get to choose from different protein types and flavors. We also loved the taste and the macro totals per serving.

Pros

Low calories can benefit smaller female builds

Customizable protein types and flavors

Tastes great, per our tester

Why We Like It

There’s no one specific protein that’s best for any gender. However, most cisgender women have traditionally smaller builds than their cis male counterparts, so having a protein powder with higher calorie counts can be more undesirable for this crowd. (1) Gainful’s selection of protein powders features just 110 to 140 calories (depending on the type of protein you choose) while still delivering between 19 and 26 grams of the vital macronutrient.

We also like the customizable nature of Gainful’s product. On the product page, you can choose between four types of protein that cater to different diets and goals. See them below.

All of these protein types are available in an Unflavored option, but you can also add on individual flavor packs for variety. “I really enjoyed how the packs let you control how much or little flavor you want to add in each shake,” said our tester, a personal trainer. “I tried most of them and even mixed a few, which was fun. I even dug the Sea Salt Caramel flavor, which is not usually a favorite.”

Taste scored a 5 out of 5, though it’s worth noting that the flavor packs will add additional calories — typically around 10 — and include organic tapioca maltodextrin, organic monk fruit, and organic stevia, which may lead to GI distress for some users. (23) “I’ve tried the Chocolate, Mocha, Chocolate Peanut Butter, and Sea Salt Caramel. They were all great,” explained one of our testers. “Having control over your flavors with each drink is awesome.”

Solubility scored a 3.5 out of 5, as our tester found their powder, a whey protein blend, clumpy when mixed with milk in a shaker. “Didn’t love that, but the flavor was spot on,” they said, recommending you mix this one with a blender.

Though this Gainful profile is pricey — at $3.21 per serving, it’s more than twice the cost of other notable protein supps — we still scored the value with 4 out of 5 since the cost includes such impressive customization options and even access to a registered dietitian for nutritional guidance.

We do, however, wish a product at this price point included clear evidence of third-party testing. Since it was unclear if Gainful’s products are third-party tested, we scored this powder a 2 out of 5 in the category.

“Gainful definitely doesn’t make budget supplements, but the customization makes it a solid option for those with dietary restrictions,” said our tester. “And having access to an RD? That alone earns the price.”

Read our full Gainful Protein Powder Review.

Best Whey Protein for Muscle Gain: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO

Jacked Factory Authentic ISO

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

What You Should Know

Jacked Factory Authentic ISO is our best whey protein for muscle gain. This one packs a solid dose of protein per serving and it comes in a wide array of flavors, so you won’t get any palate fatigue.

Why We Like It

One of the main reasons athletes can turn to whey protein is to help support their muscle-building goals. With up to 27 grams of protein sourced from grass-fed cows, Jacked Factory’s Authentic ISO is our pick for the best whey protein powder for muscle-focused individuals. We like this powder for muscle gain, too, because the carbohydrate and fat counts are minimal — up to 4 grams for carbs and 1.5 grams for fat, depending on your chosen flavor — which can be ideal when trying to take in more protein over anything throughout the day. “If you want to keep your macros just so, this isn’t bad when you mix it with water,” one of our testers says. “It’ll obviously be better with milk or milk alternatives, but either way, it tastes really good and mixes pretty well. A solid 4 out of 5 all around.”

Overall, we love the balance of this product and gave the formulation 5 out of 5 points. “Each scoop is packed with an impressive 25 to 27 grams of protein with minimal carbohydrate and fat content,” adds Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. It also has up to 100 milligrams of calcium and 159 milligrams of potassium, electrolytes that are important for muscle contraction, among other functions.

_[Related:_** Best Protein Powders for Muscle Gain]**

However, we had to dock the formula one point because Jacked Factory does use artificial sweeteners. For some, these can cause digestive unrest, so it may not be the best product for all athletes.

We gave the overall flavor a 4 out of 5. “I tried the Fruity Cereal Splash flavor,” our tester said. “There was a slightly medicinal aftertaste, but nothing that turned me off from the product. It definitely tasted like Froot Loops.”

“This whey mixes really easily and it tastes smooth,” our tester added, giving the solubility a 5 out of 5_. “But there was a tiny bit of separation that I noticed.”_ So, you’ll want to mix this powder in a shaker cup. Unfortunately, we had to give this whey protein powder a 1 out of 5 for third-party testing because it doesn’t seem to be verified by any labs.

If you can live with that, though, you’ll find this product has a relatively low price at about 39.99per30−servingcontainer(approximately39.99 per 30-serving container (approximately 39.99per30−servingcontainer(approximately1.33 per serving), earning it a 4 out of 5 for value.

This 30-serving tub is the only option available, but if you purchase this whey protein isolate via Amazon, you do have the option to subscribe for repeat orders. This can also be a good way to save over time, as subscription orders typically feature a discount of 10 percent.

_[Related:_** How Much Protein Do You Actually Need Per Day?]**

Best Organic Whey Protein: Ora Organic Protein

Ora Organic Vegan Protein

Ora Organic Vegan Protein

At 21 grams of plant-based protein per serving, Ora Organic offers a blend of pea and rice protein to help you hit your intake goals. Available in Vanilla Chai, Chocolate, Vanilla, or Unflavored, there's a dessert-esque protein option for a range of palates.

Specs

What You Should Know

If organic products and foods are a non-negotiable in your diet, we recommend Ora Organic Plant-Based Superfood Protein. This product is certified USDA organic, non-GMO, kosher, and is dairy-free and gluten-free.

Pros

No dairy, gluten, or GMOs

Cons

$2.50 per serving, which is a bit pricey

Stevia can cause GI distress for some (23)

Why We Like It

Ora Organic Plant-Based Superfood Protein is pretty pricey at about $2.50 per serving — but that’s often the price to pay for getting USDA Certified Organic products on pretty much every line of the ingredient list. “The downside is definitely the price,” one of our testers says. “But it’s got less of that plant-y taste than other vegan protein powders, and it’s super smooth.”

Plus, registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, our expert reviewer, likes that you’re not just getting protein in this one. In the Chocolate flavor, for example, she likes that “You get 22 g of plant-based protein along with several other important nutrients, including 39 percent of your daily iron needs and a digestive enzyme blend.” Why is that something you might look for in a protein powder?

“Research continues to show that those following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle may be at an increased risk of iron deficiency since they aren’t consuming meat products rich in heme iron. Ora Organic’s Plant-Based Protein Powder provides 39 percent of your daily iron needs in one serving. Pretty impressive. It’s also a pretty lean protein powder, great for those who need to boost their protein intake without skewing their other macros.”

You’ll want to use a flavored base with the Unflavored version, our tester advises. _“With water, you won’t get anything really palatable,_” they explain. “If you use milk, you’ll mostly get milk plus a bit of that classic protein powder chalkiness — not exactly the goal. Definitely put this in a fruit smoothie or something else with a lot of taste on its own.”

Our tester also recommends drinking this one very soon after mixing it because whether you use an electric mixer or shaker cup, it’ll separate pretty quickly. _“There will be about an eighth left over in the shaker cup on the bottom and about a quarter for the electric mixers — at least, there was for me._” Still, overall, they give it a 4 out of 5 for overall mixability.

That said, we don’t love that the main ingredient is a proprietary blend. Bourgeois explains: “I’m usually cautious with proprietary blends because I like to know exactly how much of each ingredient I’m consuming, or how much is in a product I’m recommending to a patient or client.” Overall, she gives the formulation a 4 out of 5.

_[Related:_** Best Organic Protein Powders]**

Best Grass-Fed Whey Protein: Legion Whey+

20% Off

LEGION Whey+ Whey Isolate Protein Powder

LEGION Whey+ Whey Isolate Protein Powder

An all-natural, non-GMO 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

What You Should Know

Some athletes may want to opt for a grass-fed formula, in which case, we recommend Legion Whey+. Among our best isolate whey proteins, this product has a grass-fed, hormone-free formula. We also thought this was among the best-tasting protein powders we’ve tried.

Pros

Grass-fed, hormone-free formula

Preserves the protein’s BCAAs

Why We Like It

Legion Whey+ sources its protein from grass-fed cows that are 95% grass-fed. Their dairy is also devoid of any hormones or antibiotics. Also, studies have shown that milk from grass-fed cows can be higher in phytonutrients than milk from grain-fed ones. (9) And our tester says it tastes great, too. “Remember when Ovaltine was all the rage? Well, the Dutch Chocolate flavor is an awesome throwback to those days.”

Earning a 4.75 out of 5 for formulation, Legion whey contains 22 grams of protein, three grams of carbs, and no fat. “If you’re prone to getting bored with your protein powder, Legion Whey+ might be your answer — it’s available in 16 flavors. I like the variety offered, and I love that you get more than 20 grams of protein per scoop without all the artificial junk. And and and it’s third-party tested!” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN.

_[Related:_** Is Grass-Fed Whey Protein Right for You?]**

Our testers also gave high marks to Legion’s taste and solubility, rating both at 5 out of 5. “The Dutch Chocolate flavor was honestly delicious,” they said. “It wasn’t too sweet and it definitely had a rich flavor.”

We also love that Legion offers 17 flavor options, so you get plenty of variety. Plus, there are zero artificial sweeteners.

At $1.60 per serving, Legion Whey+ is one of the more expensive options on the market, though it does have a solid formula.Nevertheless, our team did have to give a 3.5 out of 5 in this category, considering there are cheaper options available (even in this guide).

Read our full Legion Whey+ Protein Review.

Best Unflavored Protein: Momentous Whey Isolate

Momentous Whey Protein Isolate

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

What You Should Know

Momentous Whey Protein Isolate is a high-quality product that is Informed Sport- and NSF-Certified. The formula was even created with the help of dietitians and it has a perfect solubility.

Pros

Approved by Informed Sport and NSF-Certified

Why We Like It

For athletes wanting an unflavored for their supplement routine, Whey Isolate from Momentous is a clear standout. While this protein does have a couple of delightful flavor options, the Unflavored variety is a standout. It’s a solid choice to mix up with either water, milk, or a smoothie. “Just toss it into your smoothie of choice and it’ll make a creamy protein shake without having to make any weird flavor adjustments,” our tester recommends.

“Momentous Whey Protein Isolate powder is more expensive than many competing brands, but you get what you pay for. It is backed by science and formulated with the help of registered dietitians,” states Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD, who rated the formulation at 4.25 out of 5.

BarBend tester trying out Momentous whey isolate protein powder

Momentous Whey protein powder

BarBend tester trying out Momentous whey isolate protein powder

Momentous Whey protein powder

In addition to the impressive makeup, we also enjoyed how easily this powder blended in our shakers each day. “I thought it mixed easily enough for a quick shake,” said our tester, a former Olympian. As such, we rated the solubility at 5 out of 5.

Now, Momentous doesn’t have the same flavor roster as other whey proteins, but our tester still rated this Whey Isolate at 4 out of 5 for the category. “It was enjoyable in any liquid, but I really felt the taste come to life when mixing this powder with my milk of choice.”

Additionally, Momentous Whey Isolate is a good pick for athletes. The supplement carried certifications from NSF as well as Informed Choice, meaning it’s free of any banned substances or unwanted contaminants.

Plus, our independent testing found that this whey protein isolate ranked in the top 10 percent of all sampled proteins for label accuracy, pesticides, bisphenols, and phthalates. Momentous Whey Isolate scored average in our purity testing.

Momentous Whey Isolate Protein Scorecard

BarBend worked with an independent accredited lab to examine the purity and label accuracy of Momentous Whey Isolate protein.

As a final note, we understand that the 2.70perservingiswellbeyondthe2.70 per serving is well beyond the 2.70perservingiswellbeyondthe1 to 2averagecommonlyassociatedwithhigh−qualitywheyproteins.Thankfully,Momentousdoesofferasubscriptionservicethatcanhelpyoustaywell−stockedforacheaperprice.Asubscriptioncanknockthecostperservingdownto2 average commonly associated with high-quality whey proteins. Thankfully, Momentous does offer a subscription service that can help you stay well-stocked for a cheaper price. A subscription can knock the cost per serving down to 2averagecommonlyassociatedwithhigh−qualitywheyproteins.Thankfully,Momentousdoesofferasubscriptionservicethatcanhelpyoustaywell−stockedforacheaperprice.Asubscriptioncanknockthecostperservingdownto2.16 — still expensive, but cheaper than a one-time purchase.

Best Whey Protein for Bulking: Transparent Labs Mass Gainer

25% Off + Deals on Orders $150+

Transparent Labs Mass Gainer

Transparent Labs Mass Gainer

With nothing artificial, whey from New Zealand, a good amount of fiber, and little sugar, this mass gainer will satisfy most athletes. It's a clean mass gainer that focuses on simplicity over added bells and whistles. Transparent Labs is also offering 25% off sitewide from November 28 through December 3, and all orders over $150 will receive a free gift bundle including a gym bag, shaker bottle, and free samples of popular products.

Specs

What You Should Know

For athletes who want to put on some mass, a high-calorie protein is the way to go. Transparent Labs Mass Gainer packs 750 calories per serving and it’s free of fillers and artificial sweeteners.

Pros

No soy, added sugars, or artificial sweeteners

Cons

Minimal vitamins and minerals

Only 1:2 protein to carb ratio

Why We Like It

When you’re looking to facilitate a bulking phase, calories are king. While we’ve had the pleasure of testing multiple mass gainer whey protein blends over the years, our favorite of the bunch is Transparent Labs’ no-nonsense formula, which we gave a 4.5 out of 5. Its macros are immense, with each serving containing up to 53 grams of protein, 14 grams of fat, and 110 grams of carbs, totaling up to 750 calories.

These numbers may seem like a lot, but research has shown that energy deficiencies—a.k.a not consuming enough calories to support the physical work you’re doing—can impair hypertrophy. (10) Additionally, consuming more calories than you burn is considered a helpful strategy for bulking periods. (11)

What you won’t find in this formulation are any artificial sweeteners, fillers, or additives, which is rare in the mass gainer market. It’s also free of soy and added sugars, which, as our tester notes, makes it “pretty friendly to people with restrictive diets.”

“I’d recommend this for anyone who wants a mass gainer that won’t compromise their clean diet,” said our tester, a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach. “If you’re running into walls building muscle, don’t have a large appetite, or are just sick of eating chicken breasts, this can serve as a helpful meal replacement.”

You only get two flavor options, unfortunately, and some athletes may prefer more variety. But our team did like the taste, giving it a 4.5 out of 5. “I tried the Chocolate Donut and it actually tasted like I was eating a chocolate frosted donut,” our tester said.

We noticed no side effects. However, this product is quite a bit pricier than your standard whey protein. One 15-serving container costs 79.99,whichisabout79.99, which is about 79.99,whichisabout5.33 per serving. We gave this an overall 3 out of 5 for price compared to the other picks on this list. But TL’s Mass Gainer price is actually pretty comparable to other mass gainers on the market.

Read our full Transparent Labs Mass Gainer Review.

Best Whey Protein for Men: Wellah Protein Your Whey

Wellah Protein Your Whey

Wellah Protein Your Whey

Coming in at 20 grams of whey protein isolate per serving, Wellah Protein Your Whey offers Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Vanilla, and Coconut flavors. Each flavor is sweetened with stevia.

Specs

What You Should Know

While there’s no one best protein for any gender, we like Wellah Protein Your Whey for athletes who want a rich source of whey protein with little else in it. We also like the natural formula and solubility.

Pros

Made of whey protein isolate, so fairly pure source of protein

Our tester likes the cereal milk taste

Cons

Contains stevia (can be a pro for some)

Relatively high sodium levels per scoop

Why We Like It

According to registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, one of our expert reviewers, “Wellah Protein Your Whey is a way to boost your protein intake at or in between meals. One serving provides 20 grams of protein without excessive carb and fat content. Each scoop provides no fat and just 3 grams of carbs.”

One of our testers doesn’t just like the macros — they like the mixability, too. “You don’t have to go nuts with your shaker bottle to get this mixed well. It’s nice and foamy on top, which is cool and makes up for some of the thinness and grit you get if it’s in water. But in milk, much better. Either way, it’s definitely best if you drink it right after mixing it up. A 4 out of 5 for mixability.”

As for taste, our tester has a happy report from childhood: “Put this in milk when you want a taste of cereal milk without the cereal. It gives your milk an added sweetness boost without being too sweet or artificial. It gets a 4 out of 5 for taste.”

One thing Bourgeois encourages you to keep in mind, though, is sodium intake. “This protein powder contains 220 milligrams of sodium per scoop. If you’re sweating heavily and need to replenish, this probably isn’t an issue. However, those trying to monitor or limit their daily sodium intake may feel that this takes up a chunk of their recommended daily intake. You’re also getting 2 grams of added sugars: not a ton, but every little bit counts.”

Overall, Bourgeois rates Wellah’s formula a 4 out of 5, noting that the protein content is solid, but “its sodium and added sugar content may not be for everyone.”

_[Related:_** Best Protein Powders for Men]**

Best Hydrolyzed Whey Protein: Dymatize ISO 100

Dymatize ISO 100

Dymatize ISO 100

Dymatize ISO 100's hydrolyzed whey absorbs faster than other forms of whey as enzymes partly break it down. Plus, this product is sweet and tastes great mixed with water.

Specs

What You Should Know

Dymatize ISO 100 is a hydrolyzed whey protein, which may be easier on your digestive system than other protein sources. We also think this one is a bargain at only $1.25 per serving.

Pros

Contains 2.6 grams of leucine for muscle growth (4)

Cons

Contains artificial sweeteners

Why We Like It

Dymatize ISO 100 is hydrolyzed whey, meaning it can absorb into your system faster than other types of whey protein. It’s said to be easier on your digestive system, but it can also be a useful supplement for athletes in need of faster muscle recovery. (12) “I like to swap this protein powder in instead of my normal protein powder when I’m in the mood for a little treat,” says our tester. “I try to avoid gluten (don’t come for me) because of an auto-immune disease and the Dunkin Glazed Donut flavor takes me back to my donut-eating days.”

_[Related:_** What’s the Best Whey: Concentrate, Isolate, Hydrolysate?]**

In addition to its fast-digesting makeup, we also like ISO 100 for its more approachable price per serving. Many whey hydrolysate supplements cost roughly 1.75to1.75 to 1.75to2 per serving, making ISO 100’s $1.25 per serving price a real bargain. “This is definitely one of the cheaper protein options available,” said our tester. “It tastes decent and mixes well, so I’d recommend it to anyone on a budget.”

A container of the Dymatize ISO 100.

Dymatize ISO 100 in testing garage.

Its affordable price isn’t a reflection on its ingredients, however. We rated this formulation a 5 out of 5, taking note of its macro balance — 25 grams of protein, 1 gram of fat, and 2 grams of carbs. It also has just 1 gram of sugar and no saturated fat or added sugars. We like its 5.5 grams of BCAAs, which includes leucine — an amino acid that plays an important role in stimulating muscle growth. (4)

“It’s sweetened with sucralose and stevia and contains artificial flavors , which may leave a poor aftertaste for some,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “And it doesn’t feature a strong vitamin and mineral profile, so you’ll need to make sure you’re getting those nutrients from your whole foods .”

We rated ISO 100’s taste and solubility a 3.5 and a 4 out of 5, respectively. “I mixed together the Cocoa Pebbles flavor, which I found plenty rich in milk but lacking flavor in water,” said our tester. “I didn’t get any floaties with a regular shaker bottle, but I didn’t like how thin the consistency was when shaken with water.”

Dymatize ISO 100 Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Gourmet Vanilla Protein Scorecard

This Gourmet Vanilla variety of Dymatize ISO 100 Hydrolyzed Whey earned an overall A grade for purity and label transparency from our independent accredited lab.

Despite this thin consistency, we’re still impressed with this protein source’s purity. ISO 100’s Gourmet Vanilla offering earned an A from our independent tests, ranking in the top 10 percent of all sampled powders for the presence of metals, pesticides, phthalates, bisphenols, and overall label accuracy.

Read our full Dymatize ISO 100 Review.

Best-Tasting Whey Protein: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein is a tried and true mainstay of fitness supplement programs.

Specs

What You Should Know

Unfortunately, even the best whey isolate protein powders can taste pretty gnarly. But that’s not the case here. We named Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard Whey Protein as our best-tasting whey protein, thanks to its rich flavor and smooth texture.

Cons

Contains artificial sweeteners

Why We Like It

If you’re looking for a good-tasting whey protein powder, it’s tough to look past Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard Whey Protein. Available in 22 different flavors, there’s practically a taste for every palate. “No getting bored with the taste of this protein powder,” adds Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “Even my kids are fans of this protein,” one of our testers reports.

Additionally, this is one of the most affordable whey proteins we’ve tried, with costs per serving dropping to 0.98incertaincontainersizes—adefinitedropbelowthe0.98 in certain container sizes — a definite drop below the 0.98incertaincontainersizes—adefinitedropbelowthe1 to $2 average.

_[Related:_** Best Optimum Nutrition Flavors]**

After trying the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor, our testers gave the taste a 4.5 out of 5. “It honestly tastes like a morning dessert or treat,” they said. However, our second tester found the consistency a little too powdery for their preferences.

Overall, our team gave the formulation a 4.5 out of 5. One serving is about 120 calories, including 4 grams of carbs, 1.5 grams of fat, and 24 grams of protein (these values may vary slightly by flavor).

They gave the blend a 5 out of 5 in terms of solubility, too. “I didn’t have any issues in a shaker or a blender with milk, and didn’t see any floaties in water, either,” they said. “Its consistency might be a bit thin for my liking, but your mileage may vary.”

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Vanilla Ice Cream Protein Scorecard

Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard Whey Protein Vanilla Ice Cream finished in the top 10 percent of all proteins tested for heavy metals, pesticides, phthalates, and bisphenols.

Finally, we do appreciate the fact that Gold Standard is third-party tested, which resonates with our own findings from our independent lab tests. Optimum Nutrition’s Vanilla Ice Cream flavor variety earned an A from our findings, scoring in the top 10 percent among all sampled proteins for label accuracy and metals, bisphenols, phthalates, and pesticides.

Cheap, clean, and enjoyable to the last drop — what’s not to like about this golden protein powder?

Read our full Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein Review.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Whey Protein Powders

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To determine the best whey protein powders available today, we’ve tested over 100 different profiles from the industry’s best brands, using our supplement testing methodology to rate each high-quality profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Below are some of the categories and components that played into our rankings.

Benefits of Whey Protein Supplements

Whey protein can be a foundational pillar of your regular dietary supplement regimen thanks to the litany of benefits that it carries. While we always recommend getting your daily protein counts from whole foods over supplements, below are a handful of perks that can come from taking down a nutritious whey protein shake every now and again.

[Related: Whey Protein vs. Plant Protein — Similarities, Differences, and Benefits]

How Much Do Whey Protein Powders Cost?

The best whey protein concentrates, isolates, etc. will vary pretty widely in cost, depending on the formula and brand, among other factors. When selecting products, we tried to offer solid formulas at a variety of price points.

Best Whey Protein Overall Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder $59.99
Best Budget Whey Protein Nutricost Whey Protein Powder $39.95
Best Whey Protein for Women Gainful Whey Protein $45
Best Whey Protein for Muscle Gain Jacked Factory Authentic ISO $39.99
Best Organic Whey Protein Ora Organic Protein $39.99
Best Grass-Fed Whey Protein Legion Whey+ $47.99
Best Whey Protein Isolate Momentous Whey Isolate $64.95
Best Whey Protein for Bulking Transparent Labs Mass Gainer $79.99
Best Whey Protein Isolate Momentous Whey Isolate $64.95
Best Whey Protein for Men Wellah Protein Your Whey $40
Best Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Dymatize ISO 100 $94.32
Best Tasting Whey Protein **Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard $37.32

What to Consider Before Buying New Protein

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

Lactose Concerns

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

Protein Content

Generally, whey protein powders have around 20 to 25 grams of protein per serving. However, you can find products that are even higher. So, as you’re searching for a whey protein powder, find a product that hits that range to get the most bang for your buck.

A person opening a container of Onnit Whey Isolate

Onnit Whey Protein

Hydrolyzed is typically the most expensive form of whey, and yes, some studies have found it useful for athletes. Taking whey protein hydrolysates may improve performance and reduce markers of muscle damage. 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. (17)

(If you have a milk allergy or any food allergy, consult with your doctor before taking a protein powder.)

Soy Lecithin

The vast majority of protein powders contain a dash of soy lecithin because it can help 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. (22)

Milk Origins

Grass-fed dairy is indeed higher in antioxidants and healthful fats, like omega-3s and CLA, than regular dairy. (18)(19) That said, whey has almost all of the fat taken out of it. You could supplement with one or two grams of omega-3s when consciously trying to consume more.

legion whey+ protein powder

Mixing up Legion Whey+ protein powder.

Grass-fed cows probably live happier lives with more time spent outdoors, which is a valid reason to prefer it. Some research points to a reduced ecological footprint, but science hasn’t determined that grass-fed beef is better for the environment compared to other conventional methods. (20)

Price

Protein isn’t the cheapest supplement on the shelf but it also doesn’t need to be the most expensive, either. Generally, higher-quality whey proteins are a little more expensive, as they tend to be grass-fed and contain more protein per serving. With that said, there are plenty of budget options, so weigh your priorities before you buy.

Calorie Content

Whey protein powders are generally pretty low-calorie, as the majority of the formula contains protein. Typically, you can expect one serving of whey to be somewhere around 110 to 130 calories. However, calorie needs vary from one person to another. So if you’re looking to supplement with whey protein, consider your daily expenditure and consult a medical professional as needed.

Best Whey Protein Powder FAQs

What is whey protein powder?

There are two types of protein in milk: whey and casein. The two get separated in the cheesemaking process, and while whey used to be considered something of a waste byproduct, it’s a very high quality protein that can be processed into powder. Usually, flavorings are added to make for a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to consume protein.

What’s the difference between whey concentrate vs isolate?

Whey concentrate is the least processed kind of whey protein powder, so it has the most carbohydrates and fat — about 3 grams each per 20-25 grams of protein. Whey isolate is further processed in a way that removes most of the carbs and fat. Some whey isolates contain no carbs or fat whatsoever. This makes it more appealing for athletes following diets that severely restrict carbohydrates and/or fat, though the taste can sometimes suffer.

What is the best whey protein powder?

There are so many amazing protein supplements on the market, but after testing several types of protein, we think Transparent Labs Whey Isolate is the best overall whey protein powder. The macro split of 28 grams of protein, 0 grams of fat, and only 1 gram of carbs makes it a top choice for getting a solid dose of protein while keeping other macros low. It contains whey isolate, which may digest more quickly and prevent bloating, and comes in five delicious flavors, too.

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