Protein powders have long been a recommended supplement for gym-goers and people looking to build muscle. Taking protein powder either before or after a workout has been proven to help with muscle gains and fat loss, but it has a variety of other benefits for overall health.
Some of the most popular protein powders contain whey, a byproduct of dairy milk that contains all nine essential amino acids. These protein-building blocks are necessary for individuals that want to see extraordinary gains at the gym.
The article below highlights the best whey protein for muscle gain, the best protein powder for men, the best whey isolate, the healthiest protein powder, and more. Read on to discover the best whey protein powders on the market, their benefits, side effects, and usage.
1. Thorne Whey Protein Isolate
Thorne Whey Protein Isolate is a lighter protein option from a company that focuses on personalized, healthy aging. You may have heard of Thorne if you listened to Doctor Andrew Huberman, as they are a manufacturer that cares about top quality, especially when it comes to their NSF-certified protein.
Thorne Whey Protein Isolate protein powder contains Bromelain and Papain Blend. These protease enzymes are thought to help break down proteins in food in papaya and pineapple fruits. They are also thought to help manage allergies and possibly reduce pain and inflammation. Thorne also lists several natural sweeteners on the ingredients list, including Cane Juice Sugar and Stevia Extract.
Key ingredients in Thorne Whey Protein Isolate include a variety of vitamins and micronutrients, and each serving contains 25g of protein, 2.3g of leucine, and 2g of sugar. Adding in Thorne Whey Protein Isolate as a part of a balanced diet can help increase protein intake, assist with weight management and it is good for overall sports performance.
The benefits of Thorne Whey Protein Isolate over others are that it is NSF certified, non-GMO, soy-free, a full amino acid profile, and that it is an overall clean product.
Digestion issues from ingesting too much protein powder can occur with Thorne Whey Protein Isolate. Pregnant women, as well as individuals with high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, and bleeding disorders, are not recommended to take bromelain in any form. Some of the common side effects of taking Thorne include upset stomachs and diarrhea.
To make Thorne Whey Protein Isolate, mix 1 scoop of powder with a minimum of 8 ounces of water, milk, or milk alternative daily for best results. Thorne Whey Protein Isolate protein powder costs $53 for 30 servings.
2. NutriCost Whey Protein Concentrate
Nutricost’s grass‑fed Whey Protein Isolate hits the sweet spot between clean sourcing and cost efficiency. Each 30‑gram scoop delivers 25 grams of undenatured protein, fewer than two carbs, and barely half a gram of fat for just 110 calories—impressive numbers for a product that’s rBGH‑free, non‑GMO, and sweetened only with stevia.
The milk‑chocolate powder dissolves in ten quick shakes, stays smooth in coffee, and spares lactose‑sensitive stomachs thanks to its pure‑isolate formula. Factor in the giant 5‑pound bag and the price works out to roughly a dollar per 25‑gram serving, undercutting most premium isolates by 25‑plus percent.
Trade‑offs are minor, but they do come up in previous Nutricost reviews and worth noting. A faint stevia echo lingers after each sip, the bulk pouch demands airtight storage to prevent clumping, and the label lacks Informed Sport or NSF‑Certified‑for‑Sport screening—details competitive athletes may require. For everyday lifters and budget‑minded shoppers who still want grass‑fed transparency and lean macros, Athletic Insight rates this isolate a robust 4.5 / 5 and an easy pantry staple.
3. Ora Organics Vegan Protein
Ora Organic’s “So Lean & So Clean” chocolate blend packs 22 g of complete, USDA‑organic plant protein plus 19 superfoods and a full digestive‑enzyme panel into each 130‑calorie scoop. For a deeper dive, check out the Ora Organics review we did based on our personal testing.
The pea‑rice‑sacha inchi trio covers all nine essential aminos, while stevia and monk fruit keep sugar under 1 g with no erythritol, gums, or dairy—resulting in a smooth, bloat‑free shake that even pregnancy‑minded users and sensitive stomachs can handle. Mixability is solid in water or plant milk, and the formula stays stable when baked, making it a versatile daily driver for vegans, keto‑moderate dieters, and anyone avoiding whey.
Trade‑offs are mild but worth noting: the chocolate flavor is more cocoa‑almond milk than dessert, the pouch holds only 20 servings, and the roughly $2‑per‑scoop cost sits above many mainstream proteins. Heavy lifters may also crave the higher leucine content found in whey isolates. Still, for athletes who prioritize organic sourcing, digestive comfort, and a clean label free of artificial sweeteners or allergens, Athletic Insight rates this powder a confident 4.1 / 5 and a smart addition to the plant‑based rotation.
4. Sports Research Protein Powder
Sports Research’s Dutch Chocolate Whey Protein Isolate delivers a muscle‑focused macro stack—25 g protein, 6.9 g BCAAs, and an extra gram of free L‑leucine—inside a non‑GMO, gluten‑ and soy‑free formula. Batch‑tested under Informed Sport, the isolate stirs into a smooth, dark‑cocoa shake in seconds and doubles as a seamless add‑in for coffee or baking. Vitamin D and a touch of MCT powder boost nutrient density, while the gum‑free blend keeps digestion drama‑free.
The trade‑offs for Sports Research’s protein formula are mild: 150 calories and 3.5 g fat per scoop edge it above ultra‑lean isolates, and stevia leaves a brief herbal after‑taste. Scooping from the resealable pouch can also get messy near the bottom. Still, for athletes who value clean labels, added anabolic support, and a rich chocolate profile, this isolate earns a confident 4.3 / 5 from Athletic Insight and a well‑deserved spot in the gym bag rotation.
5. Wellah “Protein Your Whey”
Wellah’s Protein Your Whey stands out for its uncompromising purity and quality controls. Each 30‑serving tub delivers 25 g of near‑lactose‑free whey‑protein isolate produced in an NSF‑certified, GMP‑compliant facility and verified by ISO‑accredited labs. The Milk Chocolate flavor hits a balanced cocoa note, dissolves in 12 quick shakes, and leaves no gritty sediment—traits that helped testers avoid the bloating and “protein burps” common with cheaper concentrate blends.
Performance matches the clean label. During a two‑week trial, Athletic Insight’s panel reported faster post‑workout recovery, solid three‑hour satiety when blended into oats, and zero curdling when whisked into hot coffee. The trade‑offs are mild: a higher‑than‑average price per scoop and just four core flavors. For athletes who prioritize digestibility, transparent sourcing, and a chocolate taste that doesn’t fatigue, this isolate earns a confident 4.4 / 5 and a permanent slot in the shaker cup rotation.
6. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard for Muscle Building
Another beloved high-quality protein powder on the list is Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard for Muscle Building. This protein powder is truly one of the top protein powders available for muscle building.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard for Muscle Building’s strong base of amino acids is ideal for helping build muscle during regular exercise. These are some additional benefits of the Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard when compared to other competitors
It should also be noted that some of the sweeter flavors contain sucralose. If you want to avoid sucralose, avoid their Banana, Ice Cream, and Cake Batter flavors. For many, sucralose can cause unwanted headaches.
To take Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard for Muscle Building, combine one rounded scoop of protein powder with 6-8 ounces of cold water, or milk. Stir, blend, or shake for 30 seconds. A 2-lb container of Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard for Muscle Building costs $33.24.
7. Naked Whey for Muscle Strength
Naked Whey for Muscle Strength is the best protein powder for building muscle. Naked Whey is a U.S.-based company that sources its protein straight from small California dairy farms. The cows are grass-fed all year long and do not receive growth hormones like rBST or rBGH.
Naked Whey for Muscle Strength is designed to help those who take it build lean muscle and increase muscle strength. It is considered one of the top protein powders for building muscle because of its amazing benefits.
While there are many benefits to taking Naked Whey, it does come with a couple of common side effects. Below are a couple of the reported side effects of taking Naked Whey for Muscle Strength.
Individuals who are lactose intolerant may experience these side effects more than those without lactose sensitivities. You may want to source another protein option if you suffer from lactose intolerance.
Naked Whey for Muscle Strength recommends using their product first thing in the morning, before or after a workout. Simply add two scoops of the purest whey protein to 6 to 10 ounces of milk, or water, and shake to combine. You can also use it to make protein bars, smoothie bowls, or add it to a homemade protein pizza.
Naked Whey for Muscle Strength is not for individuals with lactose sensitivities or who practice a vegan lifestyle. However, the company does offer vegan-friendly protein products. A 5-lb container of Naked Whey for Muscle Strength costs $109.99.
What are the best protein powders according to protein types?
Protein powders are made from various sources, with some of the most common being whey, casein, and plant-based proteins. Depending on dietary constraints, there are many types of protein powders one can choose from which are outlined below.
- Best Whey Protein Powders
- Best Casein Protein Powders
- Best Collagen Protein Powders
- Best Pea Protein Powders
- Best Rice Protein Powders
- Best Hemp Protein Powders
- Best Organic Plant-based Protein Powders
- Best Superfood Plant-based Protein Powder
- Best Vegan Protein Powders
- Best Personalized Protein Powders
- Best Gluten Free Protein Powders
- Best Lactose Free Protein Powders
1. Best Whey Protein Powders
Whey protein powders derive their protein from whey, the part of milk that separates from curds during the cheese-making process. It is a complete protein that the body utilizes efficiently. It has a high concentration of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) that helps maintain tissues and breaks down for energy during exercise, which is good for people who want to lose weight.
Some of the top manufacturers of whey protein powders are Optimum Nutrition, Thorne Research, and NAKED Nutrition. These are the best whey protein powders they offer.
- Thorne Whey Protein Isolate: Contains 21 grams of protein for women and others who aren’t nearly as focused on muscle-building.
- Optimum Nutritional Gold Standard: Contains 24 grams of protein, 4 grams of glutamine, and 5.5 grams of BCAAs to help build and maintain muscles.
- Naked Whey: Contains 25 grams of protein and 6 grams of BCAAs. More BCAAs decrease muscle fatigue while building muscle.
2. Best Casein Protein Powders
Like whey protein, casein protein powders come from milk. However, the body can digest casein protein more slowly for a sustained release of amino acids into the bloodstream, sometimes for hours, which can maximize muscle growth after exercise.
Some of the best manufacturers of casein protein powders include Ascent, CrazyBulk, and Transparent Labs. These are the best casein protein powders they offer.
- Ascent Native Fuel Micellar Casein: Each scoop contains 25 grams of protein, which take 6-8 hours to digest to help prevent muscle loss post-exercise.
- CrazyBulk Tri-Protein: Six protein sources (including casein) released in 3 phases, so your muscles will receive fuel longer for more bulk.
- Transparent Labs Micellar Casein Protein: 25 grams of micellar casein protein digest slowly to improve strength through a longer period of muscle building.
3. Best Collagen Protein Powders
Collagen protein powder is a type of protein supplement that contains an animal protein found in connective tissue, skin, tendon, bone, and cartilage. It provides structural support to tissue and supports healthy skin.
Some of the best manufacturers of collagen protein powders are NOW, Vital Proteins, and NativePath. These are the best collagen protein powders they provide.
- NOW Sports Egg White Protein: Egg white protein has one of the highest protein efficiency ratios at 3.9, and 16 grams of protein are perfect for building lean body mass.
- Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides: 20 grams of collagen peptides make this collagen protein powder ideal for strengthening joints, ligaments, and tendons, reducing your chance of injury from exercise.
- NativePath Collagen Peptides: Type 1 and type 3 collagen peptides help revive collagen production to help manage weight, produce lean body mass, and provide more joint flexibility.
4. Best Pea Protein Powders
Protein from peas has gained popularity as a vegan alternative. However, The body tends to absorb less of the protein and utilize fewer of the amino acids in plant proteins. Peas are also missing at least one essential acid, so they are not a complete protein.
Some of the top manufacturers of pea protein are PlantFusion, Sunwarrior, and Live Conscious. These are the best pea protein powders they provide.
- PlantFusion Complete: 13 superfoods, 21 vitamins and minerals, and 4.4 grams of omega fatty acids combine sound nutrition with weight loss.
- Sunwarrior Warrior Blend Protein Powder: With 28 grams of protein per serving and 6 grams of BCAAs, this pea protein powder has more muscle-growth potential than many non-vegan alternatives.
- Live Conscious Organic Protein: This pea protein contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. 15 grams of protein help with muscle recovery after exercise.
5. Best Rice Protein Powders
Rice protein powder derives its protein from rice. The amino acids in rice protein may reduce blood sugar, blood pressure, and fats. Some of the best manufacturers of rice protein powders are Core Nutritionals, Nutribiotic, and NAKED Nutrition. These are their best rice protein powders.
- Core Nutritionals Grow: Each serving contains a staggering 40 grams of protein for maximum energy and muscle growth.
- Nutribiotic Rice Protein: Each serving contains 18 different types of amino acids, which helps the body build muscles.
- Naked Rice Organic Brown Rice Protein Powder: 25 grams of protein and 4.9 grams of BCAAs assist with lean muscle mass.
6. Best Hemp Protein Powders
Hemp protein powders derive their protein from hemp. While they’re lower in protein than non-vegan protein powders, they have more healthy fats, fiber, calcium, and iron. Nutivia, Sunwarrior, and Just Hemp Foods are some of the best hemp protein manufacturers. These are their best hemp protein powders.
- Nutiva Organic Hemp Protein Powder: Nutivia’s hemp protein powder contains 21% of the daily recommended value of fiber.
- Sunwarrior Warrior Blend Protein Powder: One of the protein sources for the Warrior Blend is hemp. 28 grams of protein and 10 types of amino acids help build lean muscle.
- Just Hemp Foods Hemp Protein Powder Plus Fiber: 19 types of amino acids helps provide energy during your workout.
7. Best Organic Plant-based Protein Powders
Plant-based protein powders come from peas, hemp, or rice sources, making them ideal for vegans or people with allergies. Being organic can give you peace of mind that they weren’t grown with non-organic-approved pesticides.
Orgain, Garden of Life, and Purely Inspired are manufacturers of the best organic plant-based protein powders. These are their best organic plant-based protein powders.
- Orgain Organic Protein: 21 grams of plant proteins help build lean muscle mass.
- Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein: Contains 18 naturally-occurring amino acids to repair and grow new muscles.
- Purely Inspired Organic Protein: Contains 22 grams of plant-based protein to help with muscle recovery post-exercise.
8. Best Superfood Plant-based Protein Powders
Superfood plant-based protein powders provide extra nutrition to supplement the protein in plant-based protein powders for added health benefits. Ora Organic, Orgain, Ka’Chava, and Vega manufacture some of the best superfood plant-based protein powders. These are their best superfood plant-based protein powders.
- Ora Organic: Ora Organic is the best overall plan-based protein powder.
- Ka’Chava: Ka’Chava contains 85+ superfoods and 7 nutrients to support muscle growth and workout recovery.
- Orgain Organic Protein + Superfoods: With 50 superfoods and 21 grams of plant-based proteins, Orgain is excellent for weight management.
- Organic Plant-Based Vega One All-in-One Shake: 20 grams of plant-based protein and nutrient-rich superfood ingredients help support lean muscle growth.
9. Best Vegan Protein Powders
Vegan protein powders derive their protein from plant-based sources such as hemp, peas, seeds, and rice. PlantFusion, Just Hemp, and Orgain are among the best manufacturers of vegan protein powders. These are their best vegan protein powders.
- Ora Organics Protein: Ora Organics protein powder is the best overall vegan protein. You can test it out here!
- Just Hemp Foods Hemp Protein Powder Plus Fiber: Provides 15% of daily recommended fiber, which keeps the stomach full longer for weight loss.
- Orgain Sport Protein: 30 grams of plant-based protein and five grams of BCAAs help build muscle while reducing muscle soreness and fatigue.
10. Best Personalized Protein Powders
Personalized protein powders allow customers to choose a protein powder that works best for their gender, workout intensity, and health and fitness goals. Gainful, Trillion, and Truenutrition all have various protein powders customized to your preferences and goals. Customers take a quiz or choose their favorite options for a protein powder personalized to their needs and preferences.
- Gainful: Gainful uses quiz results to create a mix of personalized proteins and BCAAs. They also provide one-on-one support from a registered dietician to meet customers’ specific health and fitness goals.
- Trillion: Based on quiz results, Trillion customizes a blend from among 100+ ingredients and custom manufacture a powder to meet each customer’s personal nutritional needs and health goals.
- True nutrition: Customers choose their own flavors, nutritional boosts, protein type, fats, and fibers to create a custom protein powder blend suited to their personal tastes and health goals.
11. Best Gluten Free Protein Powder
Gluten-free protein powder is a nutritional supplement that contains protein derived from sources that do not contain gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It is crucial for individuals with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or those who prefer to follow a gluten-free diet.
Consuming gluten-free protein powders ensures these individuals can increase their protein intake without causing gastrointestinal discomfort or other gluten-related health issues. For the best gluten free protein powders, consider a trusted source such as Thorne Health.
12. Best Lactose Free Protein Powder
Lactose-free protein is often chosen by individuals who are lactose intolerant or have a sensitivity to lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. This choice allows them to enjoy the benefits of protein supplements without experiencing digestive discomfort, which can include symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
When selecting the best lactose free protein, it’s important to consider the source of the protein (such as whey isolate, which is typically low in lactose, or plant-based options like pea or rice protein), the overall nutritional profile (including added sugars and artificial ingredients), and the presence of any allergens or substances that might conflict with dietary restrictions or health conditions. It’s also essential to ensure that the product meets individual dietary needs and fitness goals, as protein requirements can vary widely based on factors like age, gender, activity level, and overall health.
- Ora Organics Plant-based Protein Powder
- Transparent Labs Rice & Pea Protein
- Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder
- Thorne VeganPro Complex
- Naked Pea Protein Powder
What are the Main Features of the Best Protein Powders?
These are the main features of the best protein brands and powders.
- Taste and texture
- Mixability
- Clean ingredients
- Transparent labeling with specific quantities of all nutrients
- Calorie content
How To Choose the Best Protein Powder?
It can be difficult to know how to choose good protein powder. Choosing a supplement that aligns with end-result goals is important. For example, if the goal is to lose weight, it is important to avoid protein powders with added sugars and sweeteners.
High-quality whey protein is an optimal choice if the goal is to build muscle. It is also important to learn how to read the labels on the packaging. The best whey protein brands are transparent about their ingredients and their testing practices.
How To Choose the Best Protein Powder for Women?
The best protein powder for women is Thorne Whey Protein Isolate. It is the best protein powder for women because it contains a wide range of ingredients that support full-body health. It also provides a significant amount of protein with minimal calories.
How To Choose the Best Protein Powder Shakes for Weight Loss?
The best protein for weight loss is Thorne. It provides the necessary amount of protein without adding in sugars and carbs that can mess with blood sugar levels over time.
How To Choose the Best Protein Powder for Bulking?
The best protein powder for bulking is CrazyBulk Tri-Protein for its incredible 6 protein blend. This blend combines fast and slow-digesting proteins that help fuel muscles, provide mental focus, increase energy, and help people push themselves at the gym.
Alternatively, a good bulking protein powder is Core Nutritionals Grow due to its extremely high protein and carb content.
How to Choose the Best Protein Powder for Diabetics?
The best protein powder for diabetics is Isopure Low Carb Whey Isolate because it contains zero sugar and minimal carbs to affect blood sugar levels or insulin. Other good protein powders for diabetics include Core Nutritionals Grow because of its low-sugar formula.
How to Choose Best Protein Powder for Beginners?
When selecting a protein powder for beginners, it’s important to pay attention to the source of the protein, the ingredients included, and the nutrition label. Look for a powder that uses a high-quality protein source, contains minimal added sugars or fillers, and has low levels of carbohydrates and fats. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose a protein powder that aligns with your fitness goals and supports a healthy lifestyle.
How To Use the Best Protein Powders?
There are many ways to use protein powders. The most common way is to mix the recommended serving with a liquid like water, milk, or plant-based milk. Use a blender or a shaker bottle to combine and drink shortly before or after a workout, when it’s best to take protein.
It is possible to bake or cook with protein powder as well. Many people enjoy adding protein powder to smoothies, pancakes, bread, and desserts.
How To Read Protein Labels on Protein Supplements?
Protein powders are not regulated by the FDA, which is why they can contain different amounts of vitamins, fillers, or sweeteners. Reading the Nutrition Facts label on a protein powder package is important for a complete list of ingredients, macros, micros, and more.
The best protein powders will also have protein labels that illustrate if they are certified, third-party tested, and the different allergens they possess or do not. Transparency is important to look for in the best protein powders.
How to Understand Protein Supplement’s Role for Muscle?
Protein is a macronutrient made from 20 amino acids, 9 of which our bodies must acquire from food. They are necessary to feed muscles as well as repair and maintain them.
Most protein powders are made with whey or casein which are watery liquid milk byproducts that occur during cheese production. These pure protein sources are separated and purified before being dried into a powder form. Other powders are derived from eggs or plants.
What are the benefits of protein powder for muscle gain?
Protein powders aid with muscle gain by promoting growth and recovery after workouts, preventing muscle breakdown during intense exercise, and providing a convenient way to boost protein intake. An additional benefit of protein powder is that they are high in amino acids, which are vital for muscle repair and growth. However, consistent strength training, balanced nutrition, and rest are also essential for muscle development.
