wide variety of protein powders are available to support different fitnes.dietary needs, and flavor preferences. The right choice for you depends on factors such as whether you want to gain muscle, lose weight, or need a plant-based option.
Best protein powders for most people
These versatile powders offer a balance of quality, taste, and value, making them a popular choice for many users.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein: This blend is a perennial favorite in the fitness community, combining whey protein isolate, concentrate, and hydrolyzed whey protein. It offers 24 grams of protein per serving and is low in fat, sugar, and carbs.
Protein source: Whey protein isolate, concentrate, and peptides.
Flavor options: More than 20 flavors, including Double Rich Chocolate, Vanilla Ice Cream, and Strawberry Banana.
Myprotein Impact Whey Protein: A budget-friendly option, this powder is available in a huge variety of flavors and provides a solid 22–23 grams of protein per serving.
Protein source: Whey protein.
Flavor options: The Chocolate Brownie flavor is a reviewer favorite.
Best protein powders for weight loss
For those focused on weight management, specific proteins can help promote fullness and preserve muscle mass while on a calorie-controlled diet.
Optimum Nutrition Casein Protein Powder: Because it digests slowly, casein keeps you feeling full longer, which helps with appetite control. It delivers 24 grams of protein per serving and has clean ingredients.
Protein source: Casein protein.
Flavor options: Four flavors, including Chocolate Supreme and Creamy Vanilla.
Isopure Zero Carb: This whey protein isolate contains no carbs and no sugar, making it ideal for those trying to reduce their calorie and carb intake.
Protein source: Whey protein isolate.
Flavor options: Eight options, such as Banana Cream and Cookies & Cream.
Huel Black Edition Protein: A plant-based option that is high in protein but lower in carbohydrates, making it a good choice for weight loss. It also includes prebiotics and a probiotic for gut health.
Protein source: Pea and brown rice protein.
Flavor options: Nine options, including Chocolate, Vanilla, and Salted Caramel.
Best protein powders for muscle gain
For building muscle, high-protein and high-calorie "mass gainer" powders are an effective supplement when paired with resistance training.
Transparent Labs Mass Gainer: This product delivers a high-calorie and high-protein serving designed for athletes. It uses grass-fed whey and sources carbs from real foods like tapioca, oat flour, and sweet potato.
Protein source: Grass-fed whey.
Flavor options: Three flavors, including Chocolate Glaze Donut and Sweet Vanilla.
Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Protein Powder: This powder is designed for serious bulking and can deliver over 1,200 calories per serving. It is Informed Sport certified, ensuring quality for competitive athletes.
Protein source: A blend of whey, casein, and egg protein.
Flavor options: Five options, such as Banana and Chocolate Peanut Butter.
Dymatize Super Mass Gainer: Another high-calorie option for those looking to add bulk, with 1,280 calories per serving. It is third-party tested by Informed Choice.
Protein source: A blend of whey and casein.
Flavor options: Flavors include Gourmet Vanilla, Rich Chocolate, and Fruity Pebbles.
Best plant-based protein powders
These are suitable for vegans, vegetarians, or those with dairy sensitivities. Blended proteins often provide a more complete amino acid profile.
Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder: This blend is sourced from organic pea protein, brown rice protein, and chia seeds. It is a good option for those seeking a tasty, vegan-friendly powder with a smooth texture.
Protein source: Pea protein, brown rice protein, chia seeds.
Flavor options: 11 options, including Vanilla Bean and Creamy Chocolate Fudge.
Mikuna Vegan Protein Powder: Made from the Peruvian chocho lupin bean, this powder is a single-source protein that is vegan, paleo, keto, and gluten-free.
Protein source: Chocho (Peruvian lupin bean).
Flavor options: Pure Chocho, Vanilla, and Cacao.
Naked Mass Vegan Protein Powder: A high-calorie, plant-based gainer that offers 50 grams of protein from pea and brown rice.
Protein source: Pea and brown rice protein.
Flavor options: Chocolate, Double Chocolate, and Vanilla.
Best specialty protein powders
These products offer unique benefits or ingredient profiles that cater to specific needs.
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder: This powder combines milk protein isolate with bovine-sourced collagen peptides to support hair, skin, and joint health in addition to muscle growth.
Protein source: Milk protein isolate and bovine collagen peptides.
Flavor options: Vanilla, Strawberry, and Cold Brew Coffee.
Be Well by Kelly Chocolate Grass-Fed Beef Protein Powder: A paleo-friendly protein made with beef protein isolate, organic cacao powder, and monk fruit sweetener.
Protein source: Beef protein isolate.
Flavor options: Chocolate, Unflavored, Vanilla, and Chai.
Ghost Whey Protein Powder: For those who prioritize flavor, Ghost offers a wide array of options based on popular snacks like Chips Ahoy, Oreo, and Cinnabon.
