We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. What to Buy Nutrition Products & Supplements 14 Best Whey Protein Powders, Tested and Expert Recommended Find out which expert-recommended whey protein powders have the best ingredients, taste and texture. By Kelsey Kunik, RD, Kelsey Kunik, RD Kelsey has been a registered dietitian for 7 years, writing and creating content for brands and top tier outlets, inspiring people to embrace a healthy relationship with food, nutrition, and wellness. health's editorial guidelines Amy Fischer MS, RD, CDN, Amy Fischer MS, RD, CDN Amy Fischer, MS, RD, CDN is a dietitian with a wide range of experience covering nutrition- and health-related content and product testing. She received a master's in clinical nutrition from New York University and has been a dietitian for over twelve years. health's editorial guidelines and Anne Cook Carroll, MS, RD Anne Cook Carroll, MS, RD Anne Cook Carroll is a Registered Dietitian with a master's degree in Clinical Nutrition from New York University. She is a dietitian at Culina Health, specializing in nutrition counseling for weight loss, disease management and prevention, as well as family nutrition. She previously worked at an inpatient hospital providing medical nutrition therapy for a range of acute and chronic diseases. She also specializes in supplement research, analyzing quality, efficacy, safety, and optimal utilization of supplements to improve health outcomes. health's editorial guidelines Updated on May 28, 2024 Medically reviewed by Melissa Nieves, LND Medically reviewed by Melissa Nieves, LND Melissa Nieves, LND, RD, is a registered dietitian with Practical Nutrition, LLC. She also works as a bilingual telehealth dietitian for Vida Health Program. learn more Fact checked by Richard Scherr Fact checked by Richard Scherr Rich Scherr is an updates strategist and fact checker for Health.com. He is a seasoned journalist and editor with over two decades of experience, he has held several leadership roles at major publications. health's fact checking process In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews What is whey protein? What is the difference between whey protein isolate and concentrate? A Note About Supplements Our Testing Process Our Experts Ingredients Your Questions, Answered Who We Are Health / Joy Kim Out of all the protein powder options, whey protein stands out as a top choice. It is super absorbable, meaning your body can digest it easily, and it has an impressive amino acid profile, which is why so many fitness enthusiasts and people with an active lifestyle love it. But you don't have to lift heavy weights or do intense workouts to benefit from whey protein powder. Getting enough protein daily supports building and repairing muscles and is also important for overall health. Protein can also help you feel fuller for longer, which is great for weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight. Experts agree that the quality of ingredients and independent verification are important factors to consider when choosing a whey protein powder but taste and consistency should not be overlooked. We've tested over 60 top protein powders for taste, texture, smell, after-taste, and overall value. Our Registered Dietitians also evaluated the powders based on nutrient profiles, ingredient lists, additives, independent verification, and value to bring you the 14 best whey protein powders you can buy. What is whey protein? Whey protein is a complete protein, which means it contains all nine essential amino acids, the building blocks of protein that our bodies need but cannot produce on our own, so we must get it from our diet. It's especially rich in branch-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which help with muscle repair and growth and even prevent muscle fatigue and soreness after exercise. Whey protein is particularly high in leucine, a key BCAA for building muscle. Another bonus of whey protein is that the body quickly and easily absorbs it, so it's a great choice for post-workout recovery. Whey protein comes from cow’s milk, but since it's almost entirely separated from other milk solids (i.e., milk fats and carbohydrates) in the manufacturing process, it is typically well-tolerated by most, even those with milk and lactose sensitivities. What is the difference between whey protein isolate and concentrate? There are two main types of whey protein powders: whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate. Both are similar in nutritional composition, but registered dietitian Katie Schimmelpfenning, RD, notes that whey protein isolate has a slightly higher concentration of protein per ounce and typically contains a smaller amount of lactose (if any) compared to whey concentrate, so it's often better tolerated by people who are lactose intolerant. However, if you have a milk allergy, you'll want to try another protein powder option, and if you have a lactose allergy, opt for one labeled lactose-free. Note that whey isolate protein is often more expensive than whey concentrate because it requires more steps in the manufacturing process. Editors Take Many people find it hard to meet their daily protein goals, and protein powder can really be helpful because it allows you to consume a lot of protein during one meal or snack. Protein powder is also one of the top supplements people ask me about as a registered dietitian. A common issue many people share with me when buying whey protein powder is that it's difficult to find one that actually tastes good. The sweetness level seems to be a particular problem, and we definitely consider this when testing them in our NYC-based lab. While taste is subjective, a few of my favorites that, according to our testing, fall in the middle of the sweetness spectrum are our Best Overall, Naked Whey, Best with Digestive Enzymes, Gnarly, and our Best with Collagen, Just Ingredients. Check out our list below to find options that can suit anyone's taste. -Amy Fischer, MS, RD, CDN, senior nutrition editor for Health.com A Note About Supplements Dietary supplements are minimally regulated by the FDA and may or may not be suitable for you. They also may interact with other supplements or medications you are taking. Our team of medical experts reviews supplements according to our rigorous dietary supplement methodology. We also had a registered dietitian review this page for its scientific accuracy. Please always speak with a healthcare provider to discuss any supplements you plan on taking. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Naked Whey Chocolate Protein Powder at Amazon $110 Jump to Review Best Chocolate Whey Isolate: Thorne Chocolate Whey Protein Isolate at Amazon $62 Jump to Review Best Vanilla Whey Isolate: ProMix Whey Protein Isolate at Amazon $61 Jump to Review Best Unflavored Whey Isolate: Klean Athlete Klean Isolate at Amazon $60 Jump to Review Best Lactose-Free: ICONIC Grass-Fed Protein Powder at Amazon $40 Jump to Review Best Budget : SALE Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder at Amazon $42 $34 Jump to Review Best for Athletes : Ascent Native Fuel Whey, Chocolate at Amazon $45 Jump to Review Best Organic : NorCal Whey Protein at Norcal-organic.com Jump to Review Best with Casein: PEScience Select Protein Premium Whey + Casein Blend at Amazon $70 Jump to Review Best with Digestive Enzymes: Gnarly Grass-Fed Whey Vanilla Protein Supplement at Amazon $63 Jump to Review Best Overall Naked Whey Chocolate Protein Powder PHOTO: Amazon $110 $95 at Amazon $27 at Walmart View on Nakednutrition.com Why We Like It Naked Nutrition Whey Protein Powder tops our list with simple, quality ingredients and great taste and texture. It contains only three ingredients, including whey concentrate, coconut sugar, and cocoa powder, and has 25 grams of protein per serving. The whey is sourced from grass-fed, free-roaming cows, never treated with growth hormones, from farms in Idaho and Northern California. We also appreciate that it is Informed Choice certified, ensuring it is not contaminated with banned or possibly unsafe substances. Our testers gave it high marks, reporting that the smell and flavor were reminiscent of Swiss Miss hot cocoa powder. When mixed with water in a shaker bottle, the powder created a full-bodied, smooth drink. The three grams of added sugar from coconut sugar make it just sweet enough without the bitter aftertaste you may experience with artificial or nonnutritive sweeteners. It's also available in vanilla, strawberry, or unflavored varieties. It’s Worth Noting Our testers noticed that the powder did not fully incorporate into the water when using a shaker bottle, leaving some sediment in the bottle after drinking. Keep in mind that people who are lactose intolerant may not tolerate this powder as well as a whey isolate option. Product Details: Protein Type: Whey protein concentrateNumber of Servings: 60Serving Size: 2 scoops (38 grams)Protein per Serving: 25 gramsCalories: 160 caloriesAdded Sugar: 3 grams Sugar substitute: NoneIndependently Verified: Yes, Informed Choice PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health Best Chocolate Whey Isolate Thorne Chocolate Whey Protein Isolate PHOTO: Amazon $62 at Amazon $62 at Walmart View on Thorne.com Why We Like It Thorne Chocolate Whey Protein Isolate has 21 grams of protein from only whey isolate, making it easier for people with lactose intolerance to absorb and digest. Schimmelpfenning appreciates that this protein powder is NSF Certified for Sport, making it an easy recommendation for athletes. This powder is sweetened with stevia and cane sugar juice, with only one gram of added sugar per serving and no artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohol. Our testers noted a strong, delicious hot cocoa mix smell, but it wasn't an overpowering chocolate flavor when mixed with water. When we mixed it in a shaker bottle with water, we found the texture smooth and thick, almost pudding-like, so we prefer this powder blended into a smoothie or oatmeal. It’s Worth Noting A faint chocolate aftertaste lingered after drinking, but it wasn’t entirely pleasant. It also contains stevia, which some may not like. Product Details: Protein Type: Whey protein isolateNumber of Servings: 30Serving Size: 1 scoop (30.2 grams)Protein per Serving: 25 grams Calories: 100 caloriesAdded Sugar: 1 gramSugar Substitutes: SteviaIndependently Verified: Yes, NSF Certified for Sport PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health Best Vanilla Whey Isolate ProMix Whey Protein Isolate PHOTO: ProMix $61 at Amazon View on Promixnutrition.com Why We Like It We love the simple ingredients and rich vanilla flavor of Promix Whey Protein Isolate Powder. It's made with just grass-fed whey protein isolate, organic coconut sugar, organic vanilla extracts, and sunflower lecithin. It contains an impressive 30 grams of protein per two-scoop serving with 6.8 grams of BCAAs. This product is sourced from grass-fed cows and microfiltered to remove other milk solids, so it contains less than one gram of lactose. While it doesn't have an independent certification, Promix does perform independent verification of purity and potency, including heavy metal testing, and provides the independent testing lab results on its website. While it has 6 grams of sugar per serving, it's a great option if you want to avoid non-nutritive or artificial sweeteners. Our testers liked how finely milled this powder was and how quickly it dissolved in water, creating a foamy texture with no clumps. It's Worth Noting This product does contain 5 grams of added sugar, which is a relatively small amount but should be considered in the context of your total added sugars for the day. Product Details: Protein Type: Whey protein isolateNumber of Servings: 28Serving Size: 2 scoops (39 grams)Protein per Serving: 30 grams Calories: 150 caloriesAdded Sugar: 6 gramSugar Substitutes: Organic coconut sugarIndependently Verified: Yes Best Unflavored Whey Isolate Klean Athlete Klean Isolate PHOTO: Amazon $60 at Amazon $60 at Walmart View on Everyhealth.com Why We Like It If you're looking for an unflavored option, we like Klean Athlete Klean Isolate, made with just whey protein isolate and sunflower lecithin as an emulsifier. Each one-scoop serving contains 20 grams of protein. We like that this product is NSF Certified for Sport, so you can trust it contains what's on the label and is free of any potential contaminants. Our testers appreciated the versatility of this product, which mixes well in water with just a slightly sweet, natural milk taste. The taste would be undetectable when blended into a smoothie or mixed with other foods. It dissolved quickly in a shaker bottle, with a smooth, clump-free texture and light-frothy foam. It's Worth Noting This protein powder does not have clear sourcing information, so it may not be from grass-fed cows. It's also slightly lower in protein per serving than some of our other picks, but you could always increase the serving size to meet your needs. Also of note, this is one of the pricier options on our list. Product Details: Protein Type: Whey protein isolateNumber of Servings: 20Serving Size: 1 scoop (22.3 grams)Protein per Serving: 20 grams Calories: 85 caloriesAdded Sugar: 0 gramsSugar Substitutes: NoneIndependently Verified: Yes, NSF Certified for Sport PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Health / Joy Kim PHOTO: Health / Joy Kim PHOTO: Health / Joy Kim Best Lactose-Free ICONIC Grass-Fed Protein Powder $40 at Amazon Why We Like It While whey protein powders, particularly whey isolate powders, have very little lactose in them, you should opt for a lactose-free option if you are very sensitive to lactose or have a lactose allergy. We recommend ICONIC Grass-Fed Protein Powder, free of lactose, gluten, soy, artificial sweeteners, and added sugar. They use a micro-filtration process to skim out the lactose content of the milk isolate. We love that this powder contains no artificial ingredients, made with just milk protein isolate, cocoa powder, natural chocolate flavor, monkfruit, and sea salt. The milk protein isolate is sourced from grass-fed cows and contains both whey and casein with 20 grams of protein per 1/3 cup serving. Our testers noted that the smell and taste matched the chocolate truffle label, with a very sweet, rich chocolate taste. It has a smooth, fine consistency and easily dissolves in water with no grainy texture or leftover residue. It does not thicken the water but creates a light foam with mixed in a shaker bottle. It's Worth Noting While some testers enjoyed this dessert-like flavor, others found it too artificially sweet. This product does not have any independent verification certifications, but according to the ICONIC website, they do perform testing with an independent lab for pesticides, hormones, and other potential contaminants. Also, this is a relatively lower amount of protein per volume, with 20 grams in a large 1/3 cup serving. Product Details: Protein Type: Milk protein isolateNumber of Servings: 17Serving Size: 1/3 cup (27 grams)Protein per Serving: 20 grams Calories: 90 caloriesAdded Sugar: 0 gramsSugar Substitutes: MonkfruitIndependently Verified: Yes Best Budget Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder PHOTO: Amazon $42 $34 at Amazon $45 at Gnc.com View on Optimumnutrition.com Why We Like It If you're looking for a quality, budget-friendly option, we recommend Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder, made from a whey isolate, concentrate, and hydrolysate blend. Schimmelpfenning recommends this protein powder to her athlete clients because it has over 2 grams of leucine per scoop, an essential branched-chain amino acid that stimulates muscle growth and repair, and 24 grams of protein per serving. Our testers found the Double Rich Chocolate flavor to be light and natural, with a pleasant smell when mixed with water and no aftertaste. While the powder mixed well with water and left very little sediment in the bottom of the glass, our testers reported that they would have loved for the mixture to be a little thicker, as it was a bit watery. We recommend mixing it with milk or non-dairy milk or blending it into a shake for a thicker consistency. This powder has no added sugars, although it does contain two artificial sweeteners, sucralose and acesulfame potassium. It is Informed Choice certified, verifying that it’s free from banned substances for competitive sports. It’s Worth Noting When mixed with water, the texture is very thin, almost water-like, and may need to be mixed with other ingredients for a thicker texture. It also contains two artificial sweeteners, sucralose and acesulfame potassium, which some research suggests may have negative side effects when consumed in excess. Product Details: Protein Type: Whey protein blend (isolate, concentrate, hydrolysate)Number of Servings: 74Serving Size: 1 scoop (33 grams)Protein per Serving: 24 gramsCalories: 120 caloriesAdded Sugar: 0 gramsSugar Substitute: Sucralose, Acesulfame potassiumIndependently Verified: Yes, Informed Choice PHOTO: Health / Joy Kim PHOTO: Health / Joy Kim PHOTO: Health / Joy Kim PHOTO: Health/Joy Kim PHOTO: Health / Joy Kim PHOTO: Health / Joy Kim Best for Athletes Ascent Native Fuel Whey, Chocolate PHOTO: Amazon $45 at Amazon $45 at Target View on Vitamin Shoppe Why We Like It Ascent Whey Protein is Informed Sport certified, a trusted independent certification that ensures it's free of potential contaminants, including banned substances for sport, making it a good option for athletes. Flavored with peanuts and cocoa and sweetened with stevia, this protein powder has a deliciously strong peanut butter taste. Our testers loved how well it mixed with water, leaving no clumps of powder in the glass after shaking for 30 seconds. The protein is mostly whey protein isolates but also includes some whey concentrate, with 25 grams of protein per scoop. One of our testers reported that while the taste was enjoyable when drinking it, the powder did leave a bit of an aftertaste, void of the initial strong peanut butter flavor. That said, we think this is a great recovery drink post exercise. Athletes may want to pair this with a carbohydrate source to replenish energy stores, as each serving of Ascent Protein contains just 5 grams of carbohydrates. It’s Worth Noting The packaging is difficult to close because powder tends to get trapped in the tracks, potentially impacting its freshness. It contains stevia, which some people may dislike. Product Details: Protein Type: Whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrateNumber of Servings: 26 per containerServing Size: 1 scoop (35 grams)Protein per Serving: 25 gramsCalories: 130 caloriesAdded Sugar: 0 gramsSugar Substitute: SteviaIndependently Verified:Yes, Informed Sport PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health Best Organic NorCal Whey Protein PHOTO: NorCal Organic View on Norcal-organic.com Why We Like It NorCal Organic Whey Protein Powder is one of the few whey protein powders with a USDA Organic certification. We also love that it contains few simple ingredients and ranked high for taste among our testers. It has 21 grams of protein per two-scoop serving from cold-pressed whey sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised cows, with 4.9 grams of BCAAs. We tried the chocolate whey, flavored with raw organic cacao and sweetened with organic stevia, and no added sugar. Our testers liked the subtle chocolate flavor, making it a versatile choice that mixes well with various smoothies, different kinds of milk, and even coffee. It also works with just water, but we recommend using a shaker bottle, as it was difficult to incorporate the powder fully when mixing by hand. There was also no unpleasant aftertaste detected among our testers. Although this product does not have independent verification certifications, NorCal products undergo independent testing for pesticides, hormones, glyphosate, and other potential contaminants, and they provide the testing results on their website. It's Worth Noting Mixing this powder by hand will require some effort to dissolve completely, so we recommend using a shaker bottle, frother, or blender to get the best texture. Product Details: Protein Type: Whey proteinNumber of Servings: 32Serving Size: 2 scoops (28 grams)Protein per Serving: 21 grams Calories: 115 caloriesAdded Sugar: 0 gramsSugar Substitutes: SteviaIndependently Verified: Yes Health Best with Casein PEScience Select Protein Premium Whey + Casein Blend PHOTO: Amazon $70 at Amazon View on Pescience.com View on Vitamin Shoppe Why We Like It PEScience uses whey and casein to give you the benefits of both in one powder. Whey protein is digested faster, making it great for after workouts, and casein is a slow-digesting protein that can help prevent muscle breakdown and encourage muscle growth for several hours after it’s been consumed. Each serving provides 24 grams of protein, along with 120 calories and 21% of the daily value of calcium. A member of our testing team reported the powder mixed to a perfectly smooth consistency within 10 seconds in a shaker bottle without a single clump or any graininess. Therefore, we recommend this one for on-the-go, and with its rich vanilla flavor, it could be a great addition to smoothies, shakes, brownies, and beyond. The gourmet vanilla PEScience Select Protein whey + casein's flavor, along with its incredibly smooth texture, gave us serious cupcake vibes. The only downside was that it was gone too soon. It scored high points with our testers, with one reporting that it tasted light and sweet and exactly like vanilla, with some hints of cake on the backend and zero aftertaste. If PEScience's other flavors are as good as the gourmet vanilla, we can’t wait to try them. Other fun flavors include chocolate truffle, cake pop, snickerdoodle, peanut butter cup, chocolate frosted cupcake, and strawberry cheesecake. It’s Worth Noting It contains artificial flavors and is sweetened with two artificial sweeteners, sucralose and acesulfame potassium, which some may wish to avoid. Product Details: Protein Type: Whey protein and casein Number of Servings: 55 Serving Size: 1 scoop (31 grams) Protein per Serving: 24 grams Calories: 120 calories Added Sugar: 0 grams Sugar Substitutes: Acesulfame Potassium, Sucralose Independently Verified: Every batch is independently verified for quality, purity, and protein content, according to the company. Customers can enter their lot number for more information on each product purchased. PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health Best with Digestive Enzymes Gnarly Grass-Fed Whey Vanilla Protein Supplement PHOTO: Amazon $63 at Amazon $63 at Walmart Why We Like It Each 2-scoop serving of Gnarly Grass-Fed Whey contains 25 grams of protein as whey protein concentrate from grass-fed cows and digestive enzymes to help with absorption and easy digestion. Lactase is included in the digestive blend, which may help people with lactose intolerance better tolerate the whey concentrate in this protein powder. Our testers loved the light vanilla flavor, reminiscent of vanilla-flavored milk, and the very smooth texture after shaking with water. It contains MCT oil, which may contribute to the silky texture. We found that it's not overly sweet or artificial tasting, but you may be able to detect the slight stevia taste if you’re sensitive to it. This pick is on the pricier side, at over three dollars per serving, but the quality of dairy, light flavor, NSF Contents and NSF for Sport certifications, and smooth texture make it worth it for those with the budget. It’s Worth Noting This is the most expensive protein powder on our list, so it may not be a practical choice for everyday use. It contains the non-calorie sweetener stevia, which some may choose to avoid. Also, some of our testers noted a slightly chalky aftertaste. Product Details: Protein Type: Whey protein concentrateNumber of Servings: 20Serving Size: 2 scoops (45 grams)Protein per Serving: 25 gramsCalories: 160 caloriesAdded Sugar: 0 gramsSugar Substitutes: SteviaIndependently Verified: Yes PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health Best with Collagen Just Ingredients Protein Powder View on Justingredients.us Why We Like It Just Ingredients Protein Powder contains a blend of multiple protein sources, including whey protein isolate, collagen, and plant-based protein sources like pea and chia seed. Some research suggests collagen supplements might support skin health and reduce joint stiffness, so it's a great bonus protein source in this powder. The variety of protein sources also gives this protein powder a diverse range of amino acids, 3 grams of fiber, and a 15% daily value (DV) of iron. Our testers liked the flavor and texture of the vanilla bean, which is flavored with coconut milk, vanilla extract, vanilla bean, and cinnamon and sweetened with stevia and monk fruit without added sugar. They also loved this powder's smooth and creamy texture, which paired well with unsweetened almond milk. It would also work well in various smoothie combinations, as it's not overpowering in flavor or sweetness. Just Ingredients participates in independent testing for heavy metals and provides a Certificate of Analysis on its website for all products. The company is also in the process of receiving NSF certification for its products. It's Worth Noting This is one of the more expensive protein powders on our list at about $2 per serving. Our testers noted it also had a slight milky aftertaste and mouth feel that could be off-putting to some, but it went away quickly with a sip of water. Product Details: Protein Type: Whey protein isolate, collagen, pea protein, pumpkin seed protein, chia seed proteinNumber of Servings: 30Serving Size: 1 scoop (33 grams)Protein per Serving: 24 gramsCalories: 140 caloriesAdded Sugar: 0 gramsSugar Substitutes: Stevia, monk fruitIndependently Verified: Yes PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health Best with Probiotics Garden of Life SPORT Grass Fed Whey Protein Powder PHOTO: Amazon $55 $30 at Amazon $63 at Walmart $42 at IHerb Why We Like It Garden of Life Sport Grass Fed Whey Protein Powder stood out among our testers for its delightful smell and chocolatey flavor. When mixing the powder with just water, we found the smell to be reminiscent of a glass of chocolate milk, which matched the consistency. The powder was deliciously smooth within 30 seconds in a shaker bottle and pleasant to drink, with no residue left in the bottle after finishing. We love the flavor and consistency of this NSF Certified for Sport protein powder when mixed with cold water, although it is pricier than other brands, and some dislike the strong stevia flavor. Each serving contains 24 grams of protein from grass-fed whey isolate and milk protein with 2 billion CFUs of Bifidobacterium lactis—a probiotic. While there is no direct link between probiotics and athletic performance, probiotic supplementation can indirectly influence performance by improving the immune system and less oxidative stress. It’s Worth Noting This contains stevia, which may taste overly sweet for some. It also contains a few emulsifiers, including gums and lecithin, so it is a slightly more processed option. Product Details: Protein Type: Whey protein isolate and milk proteinNumber of Servings: 20Serving Size: 1 scoop (34.5 grams)Protein per Serving: 24 gramsCalories: 125Added Sugar: 0 gramsSugar Substitutes: SteviaIndependently Verified: Yes PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health Best Dessert-Like Flavors GNC AMP Pure Isolate Whey Protein PHOTO: Amazon $65 at Amazon View on Gnc.com Why We Like It If you’re looking for a boost of 25 grams of protein and to satisfy your chocolate craving, the GNC AMP Pure Isolate Whey Protein in chocolate frosting flavor is our top pick. While one of our testers reported that there was a slightly artificial taste (likely from the artificial flavors listed on the ingredient list), the overall flavor was intense and deliciously chocolatey. It also comes in other dessert-like flavors, including cookies and cream, vanilla custard, chocolate lava cake, and more. Our testers also reported that it blended really well with just water, with one reporting that it had a smooth texture and tasted like a chocolate smoothie when mixed with water. We found no graininess or clumping, and it left no residue in the shaker bottle. We also appreciate that this powder is certified gluten-free and uses just whey protein isolate, which may be easier to digest for people with lactose intolerance. This powder is independently verified by Informed Choice, and according to the company website, GNC provides testing to ensure that this powder is free from the 220 banned substances on the 2020 World Anti-Doping Agency prohibited list, especially important for athletes participating in sports. It’s Worth Noting This powder contains artificial flavors, which we detected during testing. It is also sweetened with the artificial sweetener sucralose, which some may choose to avoid. Product Details: Protein Type: Whey protein isolateNumber of Servings: 70Serving Size: 1 scoop (34.5 grams)Protein per Serving: 25 gramsCalories: 130 caloriesAdded Sugar: 0 gramsSugar Substitutes: SucraloseIndependently Verified: Yes PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health Best Chocolate Peanut Butter Flavor Dymatize Whey Protein Powder PHOTO: Amazon $92 at Amazon View on Dymatize.com $110 at IHerb Why We Like It We love that this Dymatize ISO100 whey protein powder uses a blend of whey protein isolate and hydrolyzed whey protein isolate to give you 25 grams of protein per serving. Whey isolate undergoes filtration that removes a significant amount of the milk sugar lactose; this processing not only leaves more protein behind but also makes it more suitable for those who are lactose intolerant. Athletes can also confidently use this protein powder as it’s Informed Choice certified. We tested the chocolate peanut butter cup flavor, and one of our testers reported they felt like they were drinking a Reese’s peanut butter cup. We found the flavor to be sweet but not too sweet, and it tasted great when just mixed with water. Our testers found the texture to be creamy and smooth, with minimal protein powder residue left behind and little to no aftertaste. This powder also mixes well into foods like oatmeal or pancakes for a quick and easy protein boost. It’s Worth Noting The one downfall is that it’s sweetened with sucralose, an artificial sweetener that is low-calorie but not ideal for everyone. Product Details: Protein Type: Hydrolyzed whey protein isolateNumber of Servings: 71Serving Size: 1 scoop (32 grams)Protein per Serving: 25 gramsCalories: 120 calories Added Sugar: 0 gramsSugar Substitutes: SucraloseIndependently Verified: Yes PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health PHOTO: Health Our Supplement Testing and Review Process Our team works hard to be transparent about why we recommend certain supplements; you can read more about our dietary supplement methodology here. We support supplements that are evidence-based and rooted in science. We value certain product attributes that we find to be associated with the highest quality products. We prioritize products that are independently verified and certified by independent organizations such as USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab.com. We test whey protein powders on an ongoing basis in our NYC-based lab. We research the top brands on the market, consult with experts, and have our staff dietitians review nutritional profiles and eliminate products with questionable ingredients. Once in the lab, we try each protein powder in water and evaluate how it performs on the following attributes. Flavor: We judged each product on how good it tasted overall: Was it overly sweet, bitter, or artificial tasting? We also rated each powder on whether it provided an enjoyable taste, if there were any unexpected flavors, or if it was off-putting. Whey protein powders come in various flavors and can even be purchased unflavored if you want a neutral option.Texture: We noted if the powder was smooth, finely milled, and easy to drink or if it was clumpy, grainy, or unpleasant. We also considered mixability and how long you must shake the protein powder with liquid before it dissolves enough to be drinkable. Most of the powders that made our list had relatively smooth textures, but some whey protein powders can leave a gritty feel in your mouth or clumps of powder after half a minute of vigorous shaking. The viscosity can also range from water-thin to thick and pudding-like. Aftertaste: We considered whether there was an aftertaste after consuming the protein powder and how long it lasted. We noted if there was a smell upon opening the protein powder and if it was consistent with the flavor listed on the packaging. Also, because taste and smell are linked, we considered if the smell of the powder impacted taste when consumed.Value: We looked at a range of price points that could accommodate a variety of budgets. We asked our testers to evaluate the appropriateness of the price point for each product they tested.Nutrition: Our staff-registered dietitians reviewed the ingredients and assessed the nutritional profile of each product. Independent Verification: As mentioned above, we prioritize products that have been successfully independently verified for lack of heavy metals, banned substances, and other harmful ingredients, and for purity, potency, and labeling accuracy. Our Experts The following experts gave their input on the benefits of whey protein powder, who may or may not benefit from using them and analyzed the different whey protein powders we tested. Natalie Rizzo, MS, RD, registered dietitian, author of Planted Performance, and founder of Greenletes. Katie Schimmelpfenning, RD, registered dietitian, swim coach, former collegiate Division 1 swimmer, and owner of Eat Swim Win. Rita Shushy Setrakian, MS, RD, registered dietitian, writer, and founder of Shushy Setrakian Nutrition and Fitness. Holly Klamer, MS, RDN, dietitian with a background in sports nutrition and teaching nutrition. Ingredients: What to Pay Attention To It is essential to carefully read the ingredient list and nutrition facts panel of a supplement to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included, relative to the recommended daily value of that ingredient. Please bring the supplement label to a healthcare provider to review the different ingredients contained in the supplement and any potential interactions between these ingredients and other supplements and medications you are taking. Whey protein powders typically contain either whey protein isolate, concentrate, or a combination of both. As mentioned, whey protein isolate has a slightly lower lactose amount, so it is better suited to lactose-sensitive people but also tends to be more expensive. Most protein powders contain some type of sweetener, either natural sweeteners like cane sugar or coconut sugar, which are considered added sugars, or non-nutritive sweeteners, including stevia and monk fruit, or artificial sweeteners like sucralose and sugar alcohols. Non-nutritive sweeteners are a good option if you want to limit your added sugar intake. However, artificial sweeteners may cause digestive upset, and some research suggests they can potentially have negative health outcomes if used in excess long-term. Stevia and monk fruit appear to be the better options if you want a zero-calorie/zero-sugar sweetener. In general, you want to look for a protein powder with simple, quality, ingredients, with limited added sugar, artificial ingredients, and other additives like thickeners, gums, or preservatives. Also, some protein powders contain food allergens like soy and nuts, so be sure to read the label carefully. Potential Medication Interactions: If you take a medication such as Levodopa, bisphosphonates, or antibiotics, including quinolone or tetracycline, check with your pharmacist or physician, as taking protein powder too close to these medications could decrease their effectiveness. Your Questions, Answered How much protein do I need? The RDA for protein is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. For someone who weighs 150 pounds, this would be 55 grams of protein per day. However, Schimmelpfenning explains that many people would benefit from consuming more than the minimum RDA requirement, recommending around 1.2 grams per kilogram as a good target for most. Athletes, or anyone regularly participating in exercise and strength training, may need anywhere from 1.2 to 2.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight to support muscle gain and recovery. Is whey protein good or bad for you? Whey protein powder is a convenient and effective way to get protein into your body when you need it, says Rizzo. Keep in mind that protein powders are not well regulated by the FDA, so we recommend looking for brands that are independently verified for purity, potency, banned substances, and labeling accuracy, which can provide you with assurance that what you’re purchasing is what is actually stated on the label. What’s the best form of whey protein? While there isn’t a major difference in the types of whey protein, whey protein isolate has a higher concentration of protein and may be better tolerated by people who are sensitive to lactose, says Schimmelpfenning, Can I take whey protein powder if I’m lactose intolerant? Maybe, but maybe not. The amount of lactose that can be tolerated is not consistent among people who have lactose intolerance. Whey protein is mostly protein but does contain some lactose and fat. Whey isolate has a lower amount of lactose and may be better tolerated. You can also look for a product that includes lactase that would improve the digestion of lactose. Is whey protein powder better than vegan protein powders? Vegan protein powder can support muscle growth as well as whey protein, but it may not be as easily absorbed as the protein in whey; this means you may need more of it or more protein from other plant sources, says Rizzo. Who We Are Kelsey Kunik is a registered dietitian, Health nutrition writer, and nutrition consultant. Her work focuses on helping women break free from restriction and dieting and focus on true whole-self health and wellness. She educates and inspires eating behavior, programs, supplements, foods, and products that help women step into their power and feel their best each and every day. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit 6 Sources Health.com uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Trommelen J, van Lieshout GAA, Pabla P, et al. Pre-sleep Protein Ingestion Increases Mitochondrial Protein Synthesis Rates During Overnight Recovery from Endurance Exercise: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Sports Med. 2023;53(7):1445-1455. doi:10.1007/s40279-023-01822-3 Díaz-Jiménez J, Sánchez-Sánchez E, Ordoñez FJ, et al. Impact of probiotics on the performance of endurance athletes: a systematic review. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021;18(21):11576.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8583504/ Whey Protein. MedlinePlus. USDA. Dietary Guidelines for Americans. National Institute of Health. Dietary Supplements for Exercise and Athletic Performance Fact Sheet. Banaszek A, Townsend JR, Bender D, Vantrease WC, Marshall AC, Johnson KD. The Effects of Whey vs. Pea Protein on Physical Adaptations Following 8-Weeks of High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT): A Pilot Study. Sports (Basel). 2019;7(1):12. Published 2019 Jan 4. doi:10.3390/sports7010012