Top Category Winners
Best Overall
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard
The gold standard for a reason. Great taste, mixability, and value.
Best Budget
MyProtein Impact Whey
Incredible value without sacrificing quality or protein content.
Best Tasting
Ghost Whey
Unique flavor collaborations that actually taste amazing.
Best Vegan
Vega Sport Premium
High protein plant blend with added BCAAs for recovery.
Best for Lactose Intolerant
Dymatize ISO100
Hydrolyzed whey isolate that is ultra-fast digesting and lactose-free.
Compare All Protein Powders
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| Brand ↕ | Type ↕ | Protein (g) ↕ | Calories ↕ | Sugar (g) ↕ | Price / Serving ($) ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard | Whey Blend | 24g | 120 | 1g | $0.85 |
| Dymatize ISO100 | Hydrolyzed Whey | 25g | 110 | <1g | $1.15 |
| MyProtein Impact | Whey Concentrate | 21g | 100 | 1g | $0.55 |
| Ghost Whey | Whey Blend | 25g | 130 | 2g | $1.40 |
| Transparent Labs | Whey Isolate | 28g | 120 | 0g | $1.66 |
| Garden of Life Organic | Plant | 22g | 130 | 0g | $1.50 |
| Orgain | Plant | 21g | 150 | 0g | $1.10 |
| Vega Sport | Plant | 30g | 160 | 1g | $1.80 |
| BSN Syntha-6 | Whey/Casein Blend | 22g | 200 | 3g | $1.05 |
| Isopure | Whey Isolate | 25g | 100 | 0g | $1.45 |
| PEScience Select | Whey/Casein Blend | 24g | 110 | <1g | $1.25 |
| Premier Protein | Whey/Casein Blend | 30g | 160 | 1g | $1.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of protein powder?
Whey protein isolate is generally considered the best for post-workout due to its rapid absorption and high amino acid profile. Casein is great for sustained release (e.g., before bed), and plant-based blends are best for vegans.
Is whey or plant protein better?
Whey is a complete protein with higher bioavailability, making it slightly superior for muscle synthesis. However, a high-quality plant-based blend (e.g., pea and rice) can be equally effective and is better for those with dairy sensitivities.
How much protein powder should I consume per day?
It depends on your overall daily protein goals. Most people use 1-2 scoops (20-50g) daily to supplement their diet. Whole foods should make up the majority of your intake.
Can protein powder cause bloating?
Yes, especially whey concentrate if you are sensitive to lactose. Artificial sweeteners or thickeners can also cause bloating. Choosing an isolate, a plant-based option, or a powder without artificial additives can help.
What should I look for when buying protein powder?
Look for a high protein-to-calorie ratio, minimal added sugars, third-party testing for purity, and a short ingredient list. Avoid excessive fillers or artificial colors.
Does protein powder expire?
Yes, it typically has a shelf life of 12-18 months. If stored in a cool, dry place, it can last longer, but consuming it past the expiration date can decrease its potency or cause stomach upset if it has spoiled.
Can I use protein powder for baking?
Yes, whey and casein blends work well for baking. Plant proteins can be trickier as they absorb more liquid. You may need to adjust the recipe's wet ingredients when substituting flour with protein powder.