The 8 Best Protein Powders of 2025: Tested and Dietitian Approved

Best Protein Powders of 2025

• Best Protein Powder Overall: Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate 
• Best Budget Protein Powder: Nutricost Whey Concentrate 
• Best Tasting Protein Powder: Legion Whey+ 
• Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Huel Black 
• Best Protein Powder for Women: Kaged Whey Protein Isolate 
• Best Vegan Protein Powder: Ora Organic Protein Powder 
• Best Protein Powder for Men: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey 
• Best Whey Protein Powder: Dymatize Iso 100 

Best Protein Powders Comparison Table

Best Protein Powder Overall: Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate  

Our Thoughts on Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate 

Transparent Labs’ 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate comes in 18 flavors, and is available in a two-pound or four-pound size. It’s gluten free, non-GMO, and contains no artificial sweeteners, coloring, or preservatives. This protein powder is also both Informed Choice and Informed Protein certified, meaning that it’s third-party certified for accuracy, purity, and banned substance testing.  

Kayla was our tester for this protein powder, rating it a 5 out of 5 for her first impression. At first glance, she noted that the packaging for Transparent Labs’ whey protein isolate is simple, clean, and gives you all the information you need to know without making it overwhelming. “The brand exudes transparency (hence the name) and shows that with their packaging, third-party testing, clean ingredients, and so forth,” she said. 

Our tester found the instructions clear and easy to read, too. She followed the directions and said that after shaking it for 60 seconds, the result was super smooth and not grainy. “The mix has a small foam layer at the top, however, it wasn’t super thick,” Kayla noted. “I used 8 ounces of water and this seemed to be a good consistency. I think anything over 10 [ounces] would be too watery.” She rated the whey protein isolate a 5 out of 5 for mixing well.  

Kayla likes to prioritize flavor along with protein to calorie ratio. “With this product having 28 grams of protein and only 130 calories, you might start to worry that it’s going to lack in taste. This brand leaves you with zero disappointment.” She described it as having a slight sweetness that is not overwhelming, and a frothy, slightly fully body texture to it, something like a milky consistency, rating it a 5 out of 5 for taste, and a 3 out of 5 for sweetness.  

She also shared that she felt great after testing this protein powder. “Usually, whey protein isn’t a problem for me, but if it’s too thick I can feel full and sluggish. With this mixture, I felt great, and didn’t have any tummy issues that I sometimes do with plant or casein products.”  

This protein powder was a clear standout amongst the others we tested for its ease of use, tastiness, and commitment to transparency. 

Best Budget Protein Powder: Nutricost Whey Concentrate 

Our Thoughts on Nutricost Whey Concentrate 

Nutricost Whey Concentrate is available in eight flavors and three sizes: one-and-a-half pounds, two pounds, or five pounds. It’s non-GMO and gluten free, and we especially like how cost-effective this powder is, as it costs only about .87 cents per serving if you get the five-pound tub.  

Pete was our tester for this protein powder, which he tried in the vanilla flavor. He’s a registered dietitian who also tested and reviewed all of the other options on our list, paying close attention to formulations and ingredients. Pete’s initial reaction to the product was promising, rating it a 5 out of 5 for his first impression. “It comes in a standard size plastic container. The matte label is simple and straightforward, which is in line with the brand being a cost-effective supplement company.” 

He found the instructions easy to follow, and after mixing, said the shake had a “very thin, smooth consistency. It mixed easily and fully dissolved. There were no visible chunks. It did not need additional mixing.”  

Pete said that once mixed, it tastes like sweet skim milk. “The vanilla flavor is very subtle, and the product is pretty sweet, likely due to the sucralose. There is no aftertaste.” He added that he probably wouldn’t call it creamy as it was more like a skim milk consistency. Pete probably wouldn’t drink this product again because he doesn’t enjoy a vanilla flavor in general, and it was a little too sweet for him. That being said, Pete thinks it’s a straightforward and cost-effective protein powder that provides 25 grams of protein per serving, so it gets the job done.  

After testing, Pete did not notice any adverse effects or digestive issues, rating it a 5 out of 5 for side effects. Overall, we recommend this protein powder for folks looking for the best affordable option. If you’re looking for a less sweet-tasting formula, we recommend Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate. 

Best Tasting Protein Powder: Legion Whey+ 

Our Thoughts on Legion Whey+ 

Legion Whey+ is made with Truly Grass Fed™ certified whey isolate, sourced from small dairy farms in Ireland. The certification assures that cows are pasture-raised and fed a 95% grass diet for over 250 days each year. This protein powder is also tested in an ISO 17025-accredited third-party lab and is independently certified by Labdoor to contain no contaminants or banned substances. Alongside the transparent label, our tester absolutely loved the flavor of this protein powder. 

Pete was our tester for this product, which he tried in the French Vanilla flavor. This is our pick for the best tasting protein powder on our list; Pete rated it a 5 out of 5 for flavor. He noted that the protein powder is fairly sweet, as the brand uses a combination of stevia and OvaSweet. “There is a slight stevia aftertaste. It feels creamy. Would I drink this again, yes, I’d drink this protein powder again.” Pete said that it has what he’d describe as a natural flavor profile—you can taste the vanilla but it’s not overbearingly sweet.  

However, Pete rated this protein powder a 1 out of 5 on how well it mixed, saying, “The product did not dissolve after 60 seconds. Without blending, there were small chunks of protein powder that floated to the top of the shaker bottle. After blending, it had a smooth and creamy consistency.” In light of this, we suggest using a blender to ensure this protein powder completely dissolves. If you want to avoid using a blender and simply mix up your drink in a shaker bottle, we recommend Huel Black. 

Pete didn’t notice any negative effects, digestive issues, or weird aftertaste from the Legion Whey+, rating it a 5 out of 5 for side effects. In short, he is a fan of this brand, as they are artificial ingredient-free and third-party tested. Overall, Pete thinks this is a high-quality whey protein isolate supplement. 

Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Huel Black 

Our Thoughts on Huel Black 

Huel’s Black Edition is a complete meal replacement, rather than just protein supplementation. If you’re looking to lose weight, you might consider using Huel to help support your goals. However, we still recommend talking with a doctor or other healthcare professional before using Huel as a meal replacement or weight-loss tool. 

This product contains 400 calories per serving, including 40 grams of protein, which makes for a good meal replacement. Huel’s Black Edition also has 7 grams of fiber and 27 essential vitamins, which should help keep you feeling satisfied. However, Huel does use plant-based protein, which means you may not actually get the full 40 grams, as the bioavailability is lower. That said, the brand includes pea protein, which has been shown to offer high-quality essential amino acids. 

Pete tested this meal replacement shake, rating it a 5 out of 5 for flavor (he tried the vanilla). “The taste is pleasant, especially for the 90-gram serving size and thick consistency. You can definitely taste the vanilla, and it’s a very moderate level of sweetness with no aftertaste.”  

Our tester noticed that it was slightly gritty, but not in an off-putting way. This is likely due to the ingredients, specifically the flaxseed. He said that he would be willing to drink this shake regularly, finding it a well-rounded meal replacement shake. Pete suggests it as a breakfast meal, since it provides a significant amount of vitamins and minerals. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, medium chain triglycerides (MCT), and EGCG from green tea extract, all of which have been shown in research to help support weight loss. 

Pete rated this product’s ability to mix smoothly as a 3 out of 5. “There were a few very small chunks after mixing it in the shaker bottle for 60 seconds.” He said that the flaxseed used in the mix can be visibly seen and tasted. The result of the formula being combined is a “thin, oatmeal-like consistency. For those who create their own meal replacement shakes at home using protein powder, peanut butter, seeds, and oats, this will feel very similar to that,” he said. 

He didn’t experience any adverse effects or digestive issues when testing this product, rating it a 5 out of 5 for side effects. Overall, he enjoyed the taste and consistency, and simply recommends using a blender to mix the product fully. 

Best Protein Powder for Women: Kaged Whey Protein Isolate 

Our Thoughts on Kaged Whey Protein Isolate 

We selected Kaged Whey Protein Isolate as best for women because it contains mainly protein with very low amounts of fat and carbohydrates—and as caloric intake recommendations are generally lower for women than men, this pick is good for folks aiming to keep their daily calories in a lower range.  

However, there is no such thing as a best protein powder for women—protein isn’t gender-specific, and this protein powder is best for anyone looking to increase their protein intake while consuming low amounts of fat, carbs, and calories. 

Our tester, Pete, had a positive first impression—rating Kaged a 5 out of 5 on this front. The container has a black label with light yellow lettering. It’s three pounds and contains 44 servings. The label is easy to read, and the container opens and closes easily. The label also includes relevant information, including Informed Sport testing, that it contains 25 grams of protein, plus labels indicating that it is non-GMO and gluten-free. 

After tasting this protein powder, Pete found it a bit too sweet for his liking. “The product uses a blend of both sucralose and stevia. The vanilla flavor is subtle; all I really taste is the sweetness of the product.” In terms of consistency, Pete said, “The product is smooth, mixed well, and didn’t froth up when mixed. There was no grittiness or clumping.” He rated Kaged a 3 out of 5 on taste and a 5 out of 5 for sweetness.  

He experienced no adverse effects, digestive issues, or aftertaste, rating it a 5 out of 5. Overall, our team thinks Kaged Whey Protein Isolate is a high-quality choice for those wanting clean macros, solid taste, and digestibility, as long as artificial sweeteners and limited flavors are not sticking points. 

Best Vegan Protein Powder: Ora Organic Protein Powder 

Our Thoughts on Ora Organic Protein Powder 

Ora Organic Protein Powder is the best vegan pick on our list. It also contains zero sugar—a rarity, even for vegan protein powder. Ora’s So Lean & So Clean includes pea and rice protein, as well as cranberry, sacha inchi, amaranth, and sprouted quinoa to round out its amino acid profile. We also think some health buffs will appreciate that it contains a mix of over a dozen superfoods, such as: acai, blueberry, broccoli, turmeric, pomegranate, and more. It’s worth noting that plant protein does have a lower bioavailability compared to that from animal sources, meaning you may not get all 23 grams in the way that you would with a whey. That said, pea protein offers the highest quality essential amino acids—basically, it’s among the highest-quality plant protein available.  

Pete tested this one, rating it a 5 out of 5 for first impressions, thanks to its clean and easy-to-read design. When testing it, he found that the product fully dissolves after 60 seconds. The texture is slightly grainy, which is pretty typical for a protein powder that’s made with pea protein. He saw no visible chunks in the shake after mixing it up. However, Pete said, “This product settled very quickly after the initial mix, so I would have to continually shake before each sip to avoid having it completely settle down at the bottom of the shaker bottle.” Because of this, he rated Ora a 3 out of 5 on how well it mixed.  

On taste, Pete said he could definitely tell it was a vegan protein powder and not a whey. “It’s not very sweet (a 2/10) and has a very natural and clean flavor profile. Nothing tastes artificial, it’s a super subtle vanilla flavor.” He thinks the taste represents the brand well, but says that most consumers probably wouldn’t like the taste of this product. “There is an aftertaste, it feels like the pea protein stays in your mouth for a bit.” Pete would still drink this shake regularly, despite it not being conventionally delicious. “I enjoy the natural flavor profile and the clean ingredients list. It feels light and refreshing when mixed with cold water.”  

Other than disliking how quickly this protein shake settled, Pete enjoyed this protein powder. He didn’t have any digestive issues, side effects, or experience any weird aftertaste, rating it a 5 out of 5 for adverse effects.

Best Protein Powder for Men: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey 

Our Thoughts on Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey 

We selected Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey for men because it contains a blend of whey—its primary source is whey protein isolate, and it also includes whey concentrate and whey hydrolysate. What’s the difference? 

• Isolate is typically about 80%-90% protein and contains lactose and fat.  
• Concentrate is lower in protein, about 80%, and generally has the best flavor out of the three.  
• Hydrolyzed whey absorbs quicker than the other two and causes about a 28%-34% spike in insulin compared to isolate.  

Keep in mind, there’s no formulation of protein powder that’s best for men—protein isn’t tailored to a particular gender. We recommend this protein powder for folks looking to gain strength and muscle, along with rapid recovery between workouts. 

Pete gave this product a 5 out of 5 on first impressions, saying that the black tub has a glossy label that’s easy to read. He tested the 2-pound container; it’s worth noting that this protein powder is available in many tub sizes, ranging from 0.68 pounds to 10 pounds, depending on the flavor. Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard can be mixed by stirring, shaking, or blending, which differs from other protein powders on our list—most cannot be mixed by simply stirring.  

The protein powder mixed well for Pete; he rated it a 5 out of 5. “The product dissolved fully and easily over 60 seconds. There are no visible chunks or clumps,” he said. This is a great protein powder for folks who don’t have a blender and want a drink that mixes easily into a smooth consistency.  

Pete enjoyed the taste of this protein powder. “Despite it being artificially sweetened, and having the flavor of vanilla ice cream, it wasn’t too sweet and had a nice vanilla flavor, though it did taste slightly artificial.” He rated the taste and sweetness both a 3 out of 5. “The consistency was smooth and creamy, it did froth when mixing but the frothiness subsided quickly (within a minute or two after shaking).”  

Our tester did not experience any side effects or stomach discomfort after trying Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard. We recommend this protein powder for the company’s 35-year track record of reliability and performance.  

Best Whey Protein Powder: Dymatize ISO 100 

Our Thoughts on Dymatize ISO 100 

Dymatize ISO 100 is our pick for the best whey protein powder. It includes both whey isolate and hydrolyzed whey for optimal absorption and muscle gain.  

The product mixed well, earning a 5 out of 5. Our tester, Pete said, “It has a smooth consistency. The powder mixed in easily and fully dissolved—there are no visible chunks.” After tasting the protein powder, he rated it a 3 out of 5 on both taste and sweetness, saying, “It’s got a subtle vanilla flavor, I’d rate it a 6/10 for sweetness.  

The product uses a combination of sucralose and stevia. There’s no aftertaste, and the texture was smooth and creamy.” Pete noted that he probably wouldn’t drink this product again: he doesn’t love the vanilla flavor, and he prefers products that don’t use sucralose. 

Pete didn’t experience any adverse effects or digestive distress after testing this protein powder, and he found was no strange aftertaste. He liked that this protein powder is a blend of both hydrolyzed whey protein and whey protein isolate: “Based on the literature, the hydrolyzed whey protein may be absorbed slightly faster by the body, however, it seems to have the same muscle building effects.”

Overall, Pete thinks this is a solid choice for a protein powder, providing 25 grams of protein per serving, being third-party tested, and Informed Choice certified.  

Other Protein Powders We Tested 

We tested over a dozen protein powders hands-on in our lab. Here are a few that we considered but didn’t make our list of top picks, and why. 

• Our team tested Transparent Labs’ 100% Grass-Fed Casein Protein in the Chocolate Flavor, but found it particularly grainy, despite mixing it fully. 
• Kaged’s Protein Isolate Elite Series didn’t have the best flavor, according to our tester. 

How We Tested and Selected the Best Protein Powders 

We tested and evaluated protein powders and scored them on a scale of 1-5 for factors such as first impressions, easy-to-follow directions, taste, mixability, side effects, and value. Our testers evaluate the products based on their own individual experiences and preferences. We then review their testing feedback and data to share our findings and recommendations with you. 

Taste and Texture 

Flavor is a big part of our testing process. We ask our testers to provide feedback on the taste, texture, and pleasantness of the flavor for each protein powder. We rate sweetness on a scale of 1 to 5, based on how strong the sweetness is. A score of 5 is best-tasting, 1 is not drinkable. We also consider texture, and ask our tester to record any grittiness, clumps, frothiness, or conversely, smoothness and creaminess, when tasting the protein powder drink. 

Formula 

We work with a registered dietitian (RD) during testing in order to find the most effective and safe protein powder formulas. We look for a high amount of protein in each serving (at least 20 grams) with as few fats and carbohydrates as possible. We also look for protein powders without artificial sweeteners and other additives.  

Mixability  

When mixing a protein powder into liquid, we prepare the product exactly as advised by the brand. We then pay close attention to how well the powder dissolves, wanting to avoid grittiness in the taste and odd textures, like chunks.  

Third-Party Testing 

We chose protein powders that have been third-party tested. Third-party testing ensures independent verification of safety, purity, as well as nutrition label accuracy. This helps to reduce the risk of mislabeling or underdosing. Third-party testing also checks for harmful substances such as heavy metals, pesticides, and more for safety.  

For athletes, third-party testing is paramount to knowing that the protein powder they’ve chosen does not contain any banned substances. They should look for products that are certified for sport. Independent testing and certifications help to build consumer trust. The FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) does not regulate supplements, so it’s vital to have independent testing done to ensure safety, accuracy, and quality.  

Value 

When considering value, we place a higher value on brands that source their ingredients in America and have certifications, such as Informed Protein. 

How to Find the Best Protein Powder for You 

Everyone has different protein powder needs depending on your fitness goals, dietary needs, allergies, and pre-existing health conditions. People also have different day-to-day diets that involve varying amounts of protein. Some folks may need more than others.  

Here’s what to consider when selecting the best protein powder for you. 

Your Fitness Goals 

Every individual and athlete has distinct fitness goals, which may include building muscle, losing fat, or improving endurance and strength. And so, the ideal protein powder varies from person to person. To consider what kind of protein powder works best for you, consider your training intensity, recovery needs, and ingredient and flavor preferences. 

Flavors 

It’s important to choose a protein powder flavor that you genuinely enjoy, because sipping it regularly makes it easier to meet your daily protein goals and stick to your routine. A tasty flavor also ensures your protein supplement feels more like a treat than a chore, which will support you with consistency and satisfaction long-term. Finding a flavor that you like, such as cookies and cream to cinnamon bun, is a way to help support your nutrition habits and fitness goals. 

Formula 

As discussed, everyone has their own unique dietary requirements and nutritional goals, so it’s important to check a protein powder’s ingredient list and macronutrient breakdown before purchasing. Protein powders may vary in their ratios of protein, carbs and fat. Some are lean and low-carb to promote weight loss, while others have more balanced macros for muscle gain, vegan or vegetarian needs, or as a meal replacement. Checking the protein powder’s formula helps to make sure you’re on the right track with selecting the best protein powder for you. 

Cost 

Protein powder can be pricey, so you may want to consider your budget when selecting a product for everyday use. Cleaner formulations, meaning those without artificial sweeteners or additives, may cost more because of their higher quality and ingredient sourcing. 

Third-Party Testing 

Third-party testing independently verifies the safety, purity, and label accuracy of protein powders since the FDA doesn’t regulate supplements. This process helps protect you from mislabeling, contamination, and banned substances, building trust and ensuring you can use products with confidence. Independent testing is essential for confirming product quality and safeguarding your health. 

Benefits of Protein Powder 

Protein powder offers several benefits for health and fitness, making it popular among athletes and folks looking to support overall wellness or weight management. 

• Muscle Growth: Supplementing with protein powder helps support muscle growth and repair, especially after resistance training. A 2019 study found that participants who consumed protein supplements before and after resistance exercises over 12 weeks experienced greater improvements in muscle hypertrophy, strength, and endurance compared with those who did not supplement. 
• Convenience: Protein powder is convenient and easy to use, making it ideal for busy days. It requires no cooking and can be mixed into shakes or snacks for a quick protein boost on the go. 

• Weight Management: Increasing protein intake with supplements can help support weight-loss plans by boosting satiety and reducing overall calorie intake. Many studies, including a 2020 analysis, have shown that diets higher in protein may lead to greater weight loss, fat reduction, and preservation of muscle during periods of calorie restriction. 
• Immune Support: Protein is essential for immunity, as it provides critical amino acids for antibodies and other immune system proteins. Research shows that adequate protein intake can help enhance immune function and helps the body defend against infection and disease. 

How to Take Protein Powder 

Protein powder tastes best when mixed with liquid like water. You can get creative with it and add it to yogurt or smoothies or even add it to baked goods. We recommend following the instructions on the label to ensure proper mixing. 

The recommended daily take for adults over eighteen is 0.8 g/kg. This value helps prevent protein deficiency, however, athletes and older adults, for instance, may require a higher value. This is personal and if you need guidance in finding the ideal amount of protein for your body, we recommend chatting with a doctor.  

It’s best to consume enough protein throughout the day for muscle repair and growth, rather than a particular time. Having protein shortly after a workout can offer small benefits for muscle recovery, especially if your workout sessions are intense or close together.  

Some studies have cited an anabolic window, recommending protein supplementation within thirty to sixty minutes after exercise, but largely recommend that overall daily intake of protein is more important than timing. 

What to Avoid in Protein Powder 

There are some ingredients we recommend avoiding when choosing a protein powder: 

• Artificial sweeteners: May cause headaches, digestive issues, and other side effects. 
• Added sugars: Can add unnecessary calories and spike blood sugar. 
• Fillers and bulking agents: May cause digestive distress and add little nutritional value. 
• Thickeners and gums: May cause bloating, gas, or digestive issues for some people. 
• Artificial flavors and colors: These have no nutritional value and may cause adverse reactions in some people. 

Types of Protein Powder 

There are different types of protein powders, made from various sources. Here are some of them: 

• Whey protein isolate: Highly filtered to remove most fat and lactose, contains 90% or more protein by weight, rapidly absorbed, and ideal for folks looking for a high protein supplement with minimal carbs or fats. 
• Whey protein concentrate: Less processed than isolate, retains more fats, lactose, and beneficial compounds like immunoglobulins, usually has 70%-80% protein content, and has a creamier texture. 

• Hydrolyzed whey protein: Whey protein (often isolate) that is “pre-digested” via hydrolysis into smaller peptides, absorbed fastest, potentially easier to digest, and may be suitable for people with sensitivities or elite athletes. 
• Casein: This other primary milk protein is digested and absorbed much more slowly than whey, which provides a sustained release of amino acids, and is often chosen for nighttime or prolonged recovery. 
• Plant-based protein: Made from sources like pea, soy, rice, or hemp, suitable for vegans or those with dairy allergies. Some blends provide complete proteins, though they’re usually less concentrated than whey. 
• Egg protein: Derived from egg whites and contains all essential amino acids and is also low in fat and carbs. An excellent non-dairy alternative for a complete protein. 

Frequently asked questions

What is the best protein powder? 

Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate is our pick for the best protein powder overall. It’s a high-quality supplement available in many flavor options. It mixes together easily and is super smooth in consistency. 

Is it good to drink protein every day? 

We recommend focusing on protein-dense whole foods before jumping into a supplement. That said, consuming enough protein from food can be challenging for some. So, opting for a daily protein drink can have plenty of benefits, including muscle gains. If you consume too much protein, it might lead to weight gain, but otherwise, drinking a protein drink daily will likely support your fitness goals.  

What is the cleanest protein powder you can get? 

The cleanest type of protein powder is a powder with no additives, artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors. It will have limited ingredients and is often labeled as unflavored. Some of the options on our list come in the unflavored variety, so take a look! 

What is the best way to use protein powder? 

The best way to use protein powder is by following the exact instructions on the brand’s packaging to ensure it mixes well according to their directions.