Best-Tasting Protein Powder (2023): Great Flavors to Satisfy Cravings

Here’s a familiar story: You bought what you thought was the best protein powder money can buy. It arrives at your door and you excitedly open up the box to try it out. You’re stoked about your get-swole prospects, but all that excitement comes crumbling down when you take a sip of this protein powder and almost spit it back out. Chunks and floaties and an aftertaste you just can’t place. Yuck. 

Good news: Thanks to our guide to the best-tasting protein powder, you’ll never have to endure that experience again. GGR product testers, personal trainers, and nutrition coaches have personally tested more than 100 protein powders to bring you the 14 top protein powders based on real-life taste tests. 

On top of the fact that we’ve actually taste-tested all of the protein powders we recommend here, our expertise in fitness and nutrition allows us to break down the supplement facts and recommend only the best protein powders for men, women, and everyone else based on objective information. 

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

Best-Tasting Protein Powders for 2023

• Best-Tasting Protein Powder Overall: XWERKS Grow
• Best-Tasting Grass-Fed Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
• Best-Tasting Casein Protein Powder: Legion Athletics Banana Cream Pie Casein
• Best-Tasting Plant-Based Protein Powder: Ritual Essential Protein 18+
• Best Unique Flavor: Kaged Re-Kaged Orange Kream
• Best-Tasting Fruity Protein Powder: SEEQ Clear Whey Isolate
• Best-Tasting Vanilla Protein Powder: Quest Nutrition Vanilla Milkshake Whey Protein Powder 
• Best-Tasting Chocolate Protein Powder: Earth Fed Muscle Ca-Cow Chocolate Whey Protein
• Best-Tasting Organic Protein Powder: Truvani Organic Chocolate Plant-Based Protein Powder
• Best-Tasting Vegan Protein Powder: KOS Vegan Protein Powder
• Best-Tasting Personalized Protein Powder: Gainful
• Best-Tasting Unflavored Collagen Protein Powder: Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder
• Best-Tasting Budget Protein Powder: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey
• Best-Tasting Unflavored Protein Powder: Now Sports Nutrition Whey Protein Isolate

Best-Tasting Protein Powder Overall: XWERKS Grow

Good for: People who want a high-quality supplement with an all-around great flavor lineup 

Best-Tasting Protein Powder

Xwerks Grow

GGR Score: 4.25

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Natural, healthy, convenient, and tasty way to get protein
• Uses a microfiltration process to preserve critical biological nutrients in raw whey
• Removes unwanted fats and carbohydrates
• All flavors are naturally sweetened
• Nicely flavored, easily digested, and low-carb protein powder
• Promotes muscle growth and repair

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Keto-friendly
• Naturally sweetened
• Sourced from naturally raised grass-fed cows
• Tastes great
• Soy- and gluten-free
• Convenient

Cons

• Expensive

Bottom Line

Xwerks Grow whey protein isolate provides a solid blend of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals in a whey protein isolate. It comes in a widely-loved range of flavors which are naturally sweetened, so they’re easily digested.

XWERKS Grow, a 100% whey isolate protein powder from grass-fed cows, comes in the four standard protein powder flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, Peanut Butter, and Strawberry. Since this is a guide to the best-tasting protein powder, I opted to select one that tastes great across the entire flavor lineup— chocolate.

“The chocolate flavor tastes like a protein Yoohoo. ‘Nuff said,” according to certified nutrition coach Anthony O’Reilly, GGR product tester and performance editor. Agreed. Anthony also notes that he didn’t have any issues with solubility and enjoyed the smooth texture when mixed with milk. 

Members of our team have tested the Chocolate, Vanilla, and Strawberry flavors, and all have been a hit. And according to customer reviews on Amazon, people have been “blown away by the taste” and the “PB flavor is DELICIOUS,” yes, in all caps.

We love that this protein powder is high-quality yet clocks in at less than $2.00 per serving with 25 grams of protein per scoop. It also contains 6 grams of BCAAs and is free of artificial sweeteners like erythritol, flavors, and colorings.

Best-Tasting Grass-Fed Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

Good for: Those who prioritize grass-fed protein sources and gold-standard manufacturing practices

Best Grass-Fed

Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

GGR Score: 4

Check Price Expect Black Friday savings of up to 25% off sitewide

Product Highlights

• High-quality whey protein isolate
• 28 grams of protein per serving
• 8 flavors to choose from
• $1.99 per serving

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High-quality protein
• No artificial sweeteners, food dyes, or preservatives
• Lots of flavors to choose from
• Good customer reviews
• Whey isolate may be easier to digest for some people

Cons

• Price per serving on the high end

Bottom Line

Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate is a clean, high-quality protein powder that contains 28 grams of protein per serving.

We like Transparent Labs for, well, its transparency. You’ll never wonder where an ingredient is sourced from or why it’s in a product when you buy a Transparent Labs supplement. The company prides itself on using grass-fed protein sources and abiding by strict manufacturing practices. 

We also like Transparent Labs for its tasty flavors. Whatever they’re doing in the flavor lab is working! Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate tastes rich and clean in both flavors we’ve tried: Peppermint Hot Chocolate, which is seasonal, and regular Milk Chocolate. 

Certified nutrition coach Anthony O’Reilly, GGR performance editor and expert product tester, tasted the Peppermint Hot Chocolate and says it tastes just like the real thing—“all you need is some whipped cream and marshmallows to complete the scene.” Although I will say, if you intend on mixing protein powder with hot water, use a frother to eliminate chunks and floaties. 

RELATED: Best protein powder for women

I’m about 10 servings into my tub of Milk Chocolate, and of the 12 tubs of protein sitting on my counter (I don’t have the pantry space, OK), this is one of the options I reach for most frequently. 

Best-Tasting Casein Protein Powder: Legion Athletics Banana Cream Pie Casein

Good for: Anyone looking for a tasty casein supplement

Best-Tasting Casein

Legion Athletics Casein+ Protein Powder

GGR Score: 4.3

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Milk-derived casein protein powder
• Thick texture
• 5 flavor options
• Sourced from grass-fed cattle
• 25 g protein per serving 
• 5 grams of BCAAs and 11.4 grams of EAAs per serving

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Sourced from grass-fed cattle
• 100% micellar casein
• Tasty flavor options
• Smooth, rich, creamy texture
• Analyzed for purity and potency in an ISO 17025 accredited lab
• 0g added sugar
• Includes BCAAs and EAAs
• Subscribe-and-save option

Cons

• Casein protein is significantly thicker than whey
• Casein can cause bloating and gas, especially upon initial use
• Takes quite a bit of shaking to get rid of all clumps

Bottom Line

Legion Athletics Casein+ Protein Powder comes in several delicious flavors, and we’re fans of the Banana Cream Pie. Casein can be consumed as a shake, or with less water, like a pudding. This protein has 25 grams of protein per 110-calorie serving.

Anthony O’Reilly, GGR performance editor and a certified nutrition coach, is a big fan of the Legion Athletics Casein+ protein powder, specifically the Banana Cream Pie flavor. 

He admits it tastes more like a banana shake than a true banana cream pie, but still, “I’m not complaining,” he says. “If I were to compare it to an actual banana I’d say it’s an under-ripe one, meaning it’s not too sweet (which may be a good or bad thing, depending on your tastebuds). I got legitimately sad when I reached the bottom of this bag—it’s so freaking good.”

It definitely needs a good amount of shaking to ensure no clumps, and fair warning: If you’ve never had a casein protein powder before, it’s much thicker than your traditional whey protein powders. But that thickness is exactly what makes casein so good in flavors like banana and vanilla, Anthony explains. 

My own pro tip here is to make pudding out of it: Instead of using a shaker bottle and making a drink, put a scoop into a bowl and mix in a bit of ice-cold water. In a matter of seconds, you have delicious, protein-packed banana pudding!

Best-Tasting Plant-Based Protein Powder: Ritual Essential Protein 18+

Good for: Plant-based eaters who are looking for a delicious protein shake

Best Plant Based

Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+

GGR Score: 4.4

Check Price Save up to 40% sitewide through 11/28

Product Highlights

• Organic pea protein powder
• 20 g of protein per serving
• Formulated to support adults 18-49
• Third-party tested
• 150 mg of choline per serving 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Soy-free, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly
• No artificial sweeteners
• Complete amino acid profile
• Non-GMO
• USA-grown peas

Cons

• Only comes in one flavor
• Price per serving is on the high end

Bottom Line

Ritual’s Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+ is specifically designed for 18-to-49 year-olds with 20 grams of protein per serving and 150 milligrams of chlorine (to support brain and nervous system function). This protein powder from Ritual is third-party tested and Informed Sport Certified, which means this formula has been screened for over 250 banned substances.

If you’re looking for a plant-based protein powder that doesn’t have an earthy or hempy taste to it, GGR Head of Content and competitive weightlifter Kate Meier recommends Ritual Essential Protein 18+. “I could drink this with water alone and be fine with it,” Kate says, scoring the Vanilla protein powder a 4 out of 5. “That’s how decent I think this taste is.” The lone point deduction comes from a slight chalky aftertaste.

Kate’s favorite way of enjoying this protein supplement is adding it to a morning smoothie with blueberries and strawberries.

The solubility is a perfect 5 out of 5, and Kate says it’s a little scary how well it incorporates into any liquid. “It’s not thick, but it’s not watery like some proteins are,” she says.

We would’ve liked to see a few more flavor options but Vanilla goes well with just about anything. Also, Ritual is a subscription-based company, though you can cancel or pause your deliveries at any time through their website.

Best Unique Flavor: Kaged Re-Kaged Orange Kream

Good for: Those looking to stray from classic choc and vanilla, but still want a dessert vibe

Best Unique Flavor

Kaged Re-Kaged

GGR Score: 4.15

Check Price Use code HOLIDAY20 for 20% off + free shipping

Product Highlights

• Recovery blend includes L-glutamine, digestive enzymes, and creatine HCI
• Formulated to build lean muscle and improve recovery time 
• Scientifically-researched ingredients at appropriate ratios
• Unique flavors: strawberry lemonade, iced lemon cake, and orange kream
• Banned-substance free

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Mixes well
• Unique flavors
• Reportedly highly effective
• Only 1 gram of sugar
• Contains L-glutamine and creatine

Cons

• Too sweet for some people
• Contains sucralose
• May cause digestive issues

Bottom Line

If you are looking for a post-workout product that not only improves recovery but also is designed to build muscle mass, Kaged Re-Kaged may be the right option for you.

Anthony O’Reilly, a certified nutrition coach and GGR’s performance editor, is “stoked” to see more unique flavors pop up along the endless horizon of chocolate and vanilla. Kaged Re-Kaged Orange Kream is a favorite: “First of all, I LOVE that someone is offering unique protein flavors,” he dishes. “I tried the Orange Kream and it tasted so good. If you’ve had orange and cream ice cream or an ice cream float with orange soda, it tastes like that.” 

Well, go ahead and sign me up for orange-ice-cream-float protein powder. 

Mixed in a standard Blender Bottle with a Blender Ball, Anthony didn’t get any clumps, although he does admit the overall texture is slightly grainy—not a dealbreaker since the taste is pure nostalgia. Who wants to go chase the ice cream truck? 

At $2.25 per serving, this is definitely on the pricey side. However, Kaged regularly makes an appearance on our guides to the best supplements because of the high-quality ingredients, as well as sourcing and manufacturing practices. 

Best-Tasting Fruity Protein Powder: SEEQ Clear Whey Isolate

Good for: People who are tired of the chocolate and vanilla and want some exciting fruity flavors

Best Fruity Protein Powder

SEEQ Clear Whey Isolate Protein

GGR Score: 4

CHECK SEEQ

Product Highlights

• Light, refreshing alternative to traditional protein shakes
• Does not contain lactose
• Has 4 g of BCAAs per serving
• Microfiltration leaves protein clear and crisp

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Thinner texture
• Sugar-free
• Free from nuts, soy, and gluten
• Light, juice-like flavors

Cons

• Contains sucralose
• Often sold out
• Stevia causes digestive issues for some people

Bottom Line

A great alternative to traditional protein powder, SEEQ Clear Whey Isolate Protein makes drinking protein just like drinking your favorite juice. This protein powder is a great option for those who do not like the traditional thick protein powder texture or just want to shake things up.

Protein powder flavors have certainly become more exciting in recent years; however, it still feels like a sea of chocolate, vanilla, and peanut butter. If you’re looking to step away from the basics and dive somewhere new, check out SEEQ Clear Whey Isolate, which I tried as part of our testing process for supplements. 

The Blue Razz Freeze flavor is scrumptious; it reminds me of Nerds candy and Fruit Roll-Ups Fruit by the Foot. I was nervous about texture, considering most protein powders create a thick, rich substance—blue raspberry and cream isn’t an appetizing combo. 

But thanks to the pure whey isolate used in this protein powder, the texture is actually quite thin when mixed with plain water (I didn’t even try mixing it with something else). It tastes and feels like Kool-Aid, seriously! There is a slight grainy texture, similar to that of Ascent Recovery Water, but that’s to be expected. 

With 22 grams of protein, 1 gram of carbohydrates, and 0 grams of fat, the nutrient profile is on-point, too. Other flavors include Strawberry Splash and Mango Pineapple, both of which are on my to-try list. 

Best-Tasting Vanilla Protein Powder: Quest Nutrition Vanilla Milkshake Whey Protein Powder

Good for: Those who enjoy a smooth, rich, creamy texture

Best Vanilla

Quest Nutrition Protein Powder

GGR Score: 4

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Made with fast- and slow-absorbing proteins
• Contains 9 amino acids
• Sweet flavors help curb cravings
• Complete proteins help keep you full

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Low in carbs
• Comparably affordable per serving cost
• Balanced for workouts

Cons

• Contains sucralose
• Contains soy
• Thick texture

Bottom Line

With plenty of great flavors, Quest Nutrition Protein Powder is a great option for those who get bored of the same flavor of proteins.

Not only does GGR Head of Content and product tester Kate Meier love this protein shake, but her two kids drink it willingly, too. “This protein powder really does taste and feel like a milkshake,” Kate says. “It’s not just in the name!” 

The texture is ultra-rich and smooth, Kate emphasizes, and this is one of few protein powders that doesn’t give her an artificial aftertaste (although it does contain artificial sweeteners). That taste must be hiding behind the “rich taste that is very vanilla,” Kate says. 

Often, vanilla protein powders must be mixed with milk or a milk alternative to actually taste good. Not this one: According to Kate, “It is great mixed with water without tasting watery and gross, and you don’t need to mix this with anything else; totally awesome on its own.”

This is probably due to the fact that the protein is a blend of 60% whey and 40% casein. Casein gives the powder a much richer flavor and texture.

The price per serving changes slightly based on the current price on Amazon and the size tub you buy, but the nutritional profile remains awesome: 24 grams of protein, 3 grams of carbs, and 0 grams of fat per serving.

RELATED: How much protein do I need?

Best-Tasting Chocolate Protein Powder: Earth Fed Muscle Ca-Cow Chocolate Protein Powder

Good for: Anyone who wants their post-workout shake to taste like a chocolate milkshake

Best Chocolate

Earth Fed Muscle Ca-Cow

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Protein from whey
• Grass-fed and sustainable
• Clean ingredients
• No fillers or synthetic ingredients 
• GMP certified

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easily mixed
• Hormone-free
• Only 4 ingredients
• Soy and gluten-free

Cons

• Relatively expensive
• Stevia may cause digestive discomfort for some people
• Some users report difficulty mixing in cold liquid

Bottom Line

With an average protein content and a higher cost per serving, this protein powder is better for those looking for a clean protein option rather than those just looking for great-tasting protein.

Another favorite of GGR head of content and certified personal trainer Kate Meier, Earth Fed Muscle Chocolate Protein Powder is not your run-of-the-mill boring chocolate powder. No, this protein is chock-full of grass-fed goodness and organic cacao beans. Sweetened with stevia, you won’t find an icky artificial taste in this tub. 

Weirdly, this protein powder contains zero fillers, flow agents, or synthetic blends of who-knows-what, yet it mixes unproblematically and creates one of the best protein shakes you can make at home. Earth Fed Muscle Ca-Cow only contains four ingredients total. Yes, you read that correctly: The ingredients label shows grass-fed whey protein isolate, organic cacao powder, organic stevia, and sunflower lecithin.

Kate’s been buying Earth Fed Muscle protein for about five years and will continue to do so, she says. “This is probably the cleanest-tasting protein I’ve ever had. You can tell there isn’t a bunch of crap in it. Also, even blended with water, this protein has a very smooth, rich taste. I can drink just this and water and be a happy camper!”

Best-Tasting Organic Protein Powder: Truvani Organic Chocolate Plant-Based Protein Powder

Good for: Those who eat organic diets and want a rich, chocolatey protein supplement

Best Organic

Truvani Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

GGR Score: 4

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Made with 6 organic ingredients
• Rich chocolate flavor
• A USDA-certified organic, vegan, dairy-free, soy-free, and non-GMO product
• 20 grams of protein per serving
• Has 4.4/5 stars on Amazon and 14,000+ reviews
• #4 in Sports Nutrition Pea Protein Powders on Amazon
• Store in a cool and dry place

Pros & Cons

Pros

• No added sugars or stevia
• Does not have a chalky or grainy taste
• Reviewers love the chocolate flavor
• Paleo-friendly
• Organic
• Vegan
• Certified gluten-free

Cons

• Expensive (about $2.50 per serving)
• Made in a facility that processes wheat, tree nuts, shellfish, fish, peanuts, and eggs

Bottom Line

The chocolate flavor is a fan favorite, especially on Amazon, as Truvani’s Chocolate Protein Powder is rated #4 in Sports Nutrition Pea Protein Powders at the time of writing. We’ve found that reviewers love this product for its taste and simple ingredients.

I don’t know how Truvani did it; I really don’t. But they made the best-tasting vegan, organic, non-GMO, lactose-free, soy-free, gluten-free protein powder ever. I mean, this protein is anti-everything, yet it tastes like a dark chocolate milkshake. 

There’s still a hint of that plant-based protein, but it’s masked by the richness of the chocolate. Mixed with almond or oat milk, the Truvani Organic Chocolate Plant-Based Protein Powder is actually something I’d willingly drink on a regular basis—not something I can say about any other vegan, organic protein powder. 

It’s free of artificial flavors and sweeteners and instead sweetened with monk fruit extract. The other handful of ingredients (there are only six) are pea protein concentrate, alkalized cocoa, vanilla powder, pumpkin seed concentrate, and chia seed protein concentrate.

Plus, with 20 grams of protein per serving, this product is up to par with a lot of whey protein powders. It’s expensive at $2.50 per serving, but I’d gladly pay that for one of the best organic protein powders that even satisfies a non-vegetarian. 

Best-Tasting Vegan Protein Powder: KOS Vegan Protein Powder

Good for: Anyone looking for a tasty vegan-friendly protein supplement

Best Organic

KOS Vegan Protein Powder

GGR Score: 4

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Multi-source vegan protein powder 
• USDA-certified organic, soy-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, non-GMO
• Digestive support via DigeSEB to help maximize absorption

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Manufactured in the USA
• Superfood-infused
• 20 g protein per serving
• Chocolate flavor is rich
• Enhanced with digestive support enzymes
• Under $1.50 per serving

Cons

• Customers say it has a gritty/chalky flavor
• Some users reported protein gave them stomach issues
• Reports of strong sweetness and bad aftertaste

Bottom Line

KOS is a vegan protein with a lot of positive reviews, but a number of people experienced stomach issues using this protein powder.

It’s not often that a non-vegan dieter likes vegan protein powder. There’s a specific plant-protein taste that sneaks its way into all vegan protein powders, so the key as a whey-drinker is to find the one with the least amount of that taste. 

According to certified sports nutrition coach and GGR senior staff writer Amanda Capritto (and the less-than-stellar taste-test notes on other options from our other testers), that is KOS Vegan Protein Powder. 

“It’s pretty rich, which I feel is rare with plant protein powders,” she says, giving it a 3.5 out of 5 on taste.

Bonus points: This protein powder comes with probiotics for digestive support and includes 20 grams of protein sourced from five plant-based protein sources to create a complete protein source. 

Best-Tasting Personalized Protein Powder: Gainful

Good for: People who like to switch up their protein powder flavors on a regular basis

Best Personalized

Gainful Customized Protein

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Specifically formulated for you 
• Choose from a variety of flavor boosts
• Contains all 9 essential amino acids 
• Tailored to meet your dietary needs 
• Subscription-based service renews each month
• Unlimited access to registered dieticians

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High-quality ingredients
• Ability to work with registered dietitians
• Personalized to your needs and goals
• Solid profile of amino acids
• No gluten, soy, artificial sweeteners, or dyes

Cons

• Subscription-based
• Expensive

Bottom Line

Gainful protein powder is a subscription-based supplement that is personalized by dietitians to meet your specific needs and health goals.

Gainful allows you to create your own unflavored protein blend by taking a short quiz on your fitness goals, dietary preferences, and body type that is then flavored with available “Flavor Boosters.” There are eight options, so you’re bound to find something you like or you can do what GGR senior editor, certified personal trainer, and product tester Nicole Davis did, which was to mix different flavor boosters together to create an even more personalized protein powder.

“I mixed it with milk as suggested on the instructions and all flavors tasted good,” she says, “even Sea Salt Caramel, which is not something I’d normally choose.”

Gainful explains why they ask each question so you understand how each factor plays into developing a protein blend specifically made for your own needs.

Nicole said she found the protein powder to be a bit clumpy, even after mixing it thoroughly in a shaker bottle. Luckily Gainful has a “Happiness Guarantee” that allows you to get a new protein blend for free if you don’t like your original order.

The service also provides complimentary access to a registered dietitian if you have any questions about your protein blend or protein supplementation.

Best-Tasting Unflavored Collagen Protein Powder: Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder

Good for: People who want a truly unflavored collagen protein powder they can mix into anything

Best Unflavored

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptide Protein

GGR Score: 4.15

CHECK VITAL PROTEINS

Product Highlights

• Designed to improve the health of hair, skin, nails, and joints 
• Each serving provides 20 grams of collagen
• Derived from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine
• Certified paleo and whole30 friendly
• Available as flavorless, chocolate, lemon, and vanilla

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Over 200,000 positive reviews on Amazon
• No added sugar or sweetener
• Available with added vitamin C and hyaluronic acid
• Mixes well

Cons

• Some users report canisters arrived with no safety seal
• Flavorless powder reportedly tastes bad

Bottom Line

Vital Protein’s Collagen Peptide Protein is formulated to improve the health of joints, bones, skin, ligaments, tendons, nails, and hair.

I know: Why put an unflavored collagen protein powder in a guide to the best-tasting protein powder? Well, because some “unflavored” collagen protein powders actually do have a flavor, and that flavor is garbage. 

I’ve mixed these collagen peptides into coffee, greens powders, juices, sports drinks, and other protein powders and I don’t notice it at all. An extra 18 grams of protein without altering the taste of a beverage? I’m in. 

Collagen peptides may not be top-of-mind for those searching for their next favorite protein powder, but Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Protein Powder is a great protein source that can be added to just about any liquid.

You can mix this stuff into plain water and not taste it at all. When you open the container, you’ll notice how fine and light the powder is. It dissolves almost instantly and, when you give it a few seconds, your water will return to perfectly clear. (Hit it with a frother for a couple seconds to rid the glass of any stragglers.) 

RELATED: Athletic Greens Review

Best-Tasting Budget Protein Powder: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey

Good for: Anyone who wants great flavor at a great price point

Best Budget

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey

GGR Score: 4.2

CHECK OPTIMUM NUTRITION

Product Highlights

• Contains 3 different kinds of whey protein
• Tested for banned substances
• Over 5 g of BCAAs per serving
• Instantized to help prevent clumping

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High in protein
• Plenty of flavor options
• Low in carbs

Cons

• Some users say it's overly sweet
• Contains artificial flavors
• Most flavors contain sucralose

Bottom Line

With plenty of flavor and size options to choose from, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey is a great basic choice in protein powder.

I’ve been drinking Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard whey protein powder for years—since I first started strength training in 2014, to be exact. It’s remained a staple in my supplement rotation since then, and it’s a favorite of another GGR product tester, editor Nicole Davis, too. 

Part of the reason I love this protein powder so much is because there’s a vast flavor lineup—18 options, to be exact—and it’s available in 13 size options, although availability varies. I’ve tried five different Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey flavors and I’d buy any of them again. 

Of the several I’ve tried (Double Rich Chocolate, Cookies & Cream, Extreme Milk Chocolate, Vanilla Creme, and Mocha Cappuccino), Double Rich Chocolate is, in my personal opinion, the best Optimum Nutrition flavor that keeps finding its way back into my pantry.

In addition to great flavor, 100% Gold Standard Whey comes at an affordable price point, dipping as low as $1.10 per serving for the largest size of 146 servings. That’s a lot to buy at once, but if you’re serious about cost savings, it’s the right move (if you know you’ll consume it all before the expiration date). 

Best-Tasting Unflavored Protein Powder: Now Sports Nutrition Whey Protein Isolate

Best Unflavored

NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate

GGR Score: 4.03

Check Price

Product Highlights

• 25 g of whey protein isolate per serving 
• Unflavored option only
• NPA A-rated GMP certified 
• No artificial colors, flavors, or additives
• Packaged in the USA

Pros & Cons

Pros

• No additives
• Pure protein isolate
• Budget friendly
• Mixes well

Cons

• Some reports of a sour aftertaste
• Some users complained of missing scoopers

Bottom Line

NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate is an unflavored protein which delivers 25 grams of protein per serving along with a good profile of BCAAs.

GGR staff writer and expert product tester Lauren Strong says this unflavored protein powder has a noticeable “whey aftertaste,” though she adds it’s easily overpowered when mixed with a beverage other than water or with something like fruit or peanut butter in a protein shake.

“Blended just like you would want a protein powder to—no clumps, not too thick or thin,” says Lauren, a certified personal trainer. “Pretty decent all around.”

Now Sports does one thing that many unflavored protein powder manufacturers don’t, and that’s adding sunflower lecithin to keep the powder from clumping. We also won’t complain about the 25 grams of protein and minimal fat and carbohydrate content.

Other Protein Powders We Tried

The list of protein powders our product testers have tried is gargantuan. Aside from those you see above, we’ve also tried: 

• Muscle Milk Genuine Protein Powder
• Kaged Whey Protein Isolate
• Kaged Kasein
• Legion Athletics Whey+
• MyProtein Impact Whey Isolate
• Muscle Milk Genuine Protein Powder
• 1st Phorm Phormula 1
• Orgain Organic Grass-Fed Whey
• Sun Warrior Protein Warrior Blend
• Performix ioWHEY
• Jacked Factory Authentic Whey
• Garden of Life Grass-Fed Whey Protein
• GNC Lean Shake Burn
• Ghost Whey Protein
• Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate
• MuscleTech Iso Whey Clear
• Huge Supplements Whey Protein
• Cira Bright Whey Protein
• Dymatize ISO 100 Hydrolyzed Whey
• Transparent Labs Casein
• Dymatize Elite Casein
• Naked Casein
• MyProtein Vegan Blend Protein Powder
• Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Isolate
• Kaged Plantein
• Now Sports Plant Protein Complex
• KOS Organic Plant Protein
• Garden of Life Vegan Sport Protein Powder
• Innermost Health Protein
• Manitoba Harvest Hemp Yeah!
• Ora Organic So Clean and So Lean Vegan Protein Powder

So, yeah, you could say we’re serious about this taste-testing business! 

How We Picked and Tested the Best-Tasting Protein Powders

As you can see from the behemoth of a list above, we actually tested a ton of protein powders to create our various guides to the best protein powder (see best vegan protein powder, best whey protein powder, and best protein powder overall). 

RELATED: Best protein bars

Research

Everything at GGR commences with research. We scour the web for customer reviews; we analyze products from popular and not-so-popular brands; we dig into manufacturing practices; perform cost-per-serving analyses; check ingredients and nutrition facts labels; and look at policies for shipping, guarantees, and returns. 

Testing

After creating a list of products to order and try for ourselves, testing begins. We keep detailed testing notes in a spreadsheet where we can collaborate and provide input on various products we try. Here’s a look at one such sheet for protein powders. These spaces are dynamic and change as we test more products and information such as pricing and nutrition facts change.

Finalizing

The culmination of research and testing is what you see in guides like this one. We create a shortlist of products and send it to our wider team as an opportunity for critique and collaboration. This step is so, so important—especially for guides based on subjective matters, such as taste. Various subject matter experts and product testers on our team provide more input and make a case as to why a product should or shouldn’t be on a given list. 

RELATED: Best pre-workout for women

Nutrition/Protein Content

On top of having to taste good, we also wanted to make sure the protein powders we looked at had at least 20 grams of protein and a moderate amount of carbs and fats.

Flavor/Solubility

While taste is a subjective thing, we made sure not to include any protein powders that we spit out during our testing. We also looked at things like solubility, ensuring that each choice was thoroughly mixed after 15-30 seconds of shaking.

Price

We made sure to include options for people with large and small budgets.

Benefits of Protein Powder

Protein powder is one of the most popular supplements because it generally tastes decent, if not great, and it serves many purposes in the pursuit of health and fitness. 

Easy Way to Increase Protein Intake 

It’s hard for some people to consume the recommended amount of protein per day, even when eating high-protein foods. Protein powder can make it easier to hit protein targets by providing a quick, convenient way to intake 15 to 30 more grams of protein. 

RELATED: Best protein chips

Helps Build Muscle

Protein powder is an extensively studied supplement, second perhaps only to creatine. As a whole, protein is one of the most important nutrients for anabolism (muscle growth), according to a 2021 review in the journal Nutrients¹. 

Other scientific research shows that consuming protein supplements can lead to increases in protein metabolism², an important part of the process by which new muscle mass is formed, especially when taken around the time of training and in conjunction with a strength training routine. 

Helps With Muscle Recovery

When consumed post-workout, protein powder can aid in the muscle recovery process. Specifically, protein supplements have been shown to “facilitate muscle repair” and “mitigate muscle damage markers during recovery,” according to a 2019 study published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine³.

Keeps You Full and May Support Weight Loss 

It’s well-known that higher-protein diets can help with satiety, or keeping your appetite down and feelings of fullness up. Protein is an important nutrient for weight regulation⁴, and some research tells us that eating more protein may help with weight-loss efforts and weight maintenance thanks to its satiating properties. 

There’s little evidence that protein supplements directly support weight loss, but we know that more protein in your day-to-day helps with satiety⁵, and protein supplementation is a convenient way to consume more grams per day.

Remember, though, that protein shakes aren’t intended as meal replacements. If you’re looking for a true meal replacement, look for something more nutritionally complete—meaning something that contains carbs, fats, and a micronutrient profile as well. 

Buying Guide: What to Look for in Protein Powder

To help you on your hunt for the best protein supplement, here are my top things to look for. 

Taste, Texture, and Solubility 

Solubility is inarguably important in protein powder. Without good solubility, protein powder is trash, no matter how good the taste is—I don’t know anyone who can down a chunky, gritty serving of liquid and go back for seconds. 

Unfortunately, there’s no real way to know if the taste, texture, or solubility of a protein powder will be acceptable to you until you try it. However, it’s helpful to read customer reviews to learn more about these factors, as well as in-depth guides (like ours!). 

Protein Per Serving 

We like to see at least 20 grams of protein per serving, regardless of the type of protein powder. Sometimes, vegan protein powders have fewer grams per serving, but the vegan options on our list meet that 20-gram benchmark. More than 20 is great, and you’ll see some with up to 30 grams per serving.

Other Nutrient Information

Don’t make the mistake of only looking at the protein blend on the supplements facts label. Check the carbs, fat, fiber, and sugar per serving. Also check the ingredients list to look for any ingredients that may cause digestive problems for you, such as artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols, added sugars, and certain thickeners, preservatives, emulsifiers, or gums. 

Some protein powders also include digestive enzymes to help prevent bloating and other potential gastrointestinal side effects. Other ingredients you may find on the label are branched-chain amino acids, essential amino acids, vitamin C, calcium, and other micronutrients.

RELATED: Best pre-workout for men

Protein Source

Whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate are the most common protein sources in non-vegan (meaning not dairy-free) protein powders. In vegan protein powders, you’re likely to find blends of brown rice protein, soy protein, and pea protein. All of these are fine; it’s just about personal preference. Although, it’s worth noting that plant proteins aren’t complete proteins, meaning they don’t contain all nine essential amino acids.

Price Per Serving 

Price per serving is another important factor to consider. You may see a tub of protein for $30 and think it’s a great deal, only to find out that it only contains 15 servings. Then you’re looking at $2 per serving, which is on the higher end. Our list of the best-tasting protein powders contains options with pricing as low as $1.10 per serving up to $2.50 per serving, which is quite pricey. However, when you want a great taste and to satisfy several dietary preferences, you’ll be looking at those higher prices. 

RELATED: No Cow protein bar

Flavor Options

Are you a vanilla bean fiend? Or more of a chocolate peanut butter fanatic? Perhaps chocolate chip cookie dough is your go-to? On today’s market, you’ll find a seemingly endless selection of flavor options among protein powders, so you’re allowed to be picky and forgo the overdone basic chocolate and vanilla flavors. 

FAQs

References

1. Mielgo-Ayuso J, Fernández-Lázaro D. Nutrition and Muscle Recovery. Nutrients. 2021;13(2):294. Published 2021 Jan 20. doi:10.3390/nu13020294
2. Cintineo HP, Arent MA, Antonio J, Arent SM. Effects of Protein Supplementation on Performance and Recovery in Resistance and Endurance Training. Front Nutr. 2018;5:83. Published 2018 Sep 11. doi:10.3389/fnut.2018.00083
3. Poulios A, Georgakouli K, Draganidis D, et al. Protein-Based Supplementation to Enhance Recovery in Team Sports: What is the Evidence?. J Sports Sci Med. 2019;18(3):523-536. Published 2019 Aug 1.
4. Westerterp-Plantenga MS, Lemmens SG, Westerterp KR. Dietary protein – its role in satiety, energetics, weight loss and health. Br J Nutr. 2012;108 Suppl 2:S105-S112. doi:10.1017/S0007114512002589
5. Moon J, Koh G. Clinical Evidence and Mechanisms of High-Protein Diet-Induced Weight Loss. J Obes Metab Syndr. 2020;29(3):166-173. doi:10.7570/jomes20028

Anthony O'Reilly, CPT

Anthony O'Reilly is a NASM-certified nutrition coach and personal trainer whose work has been featured in Muscle & Fitness and BarBend, and previously was an award-winning reporter and photographer for newspapers on Long Island and Queens, NY. After spending most of his life overweight, he dropped 80 pounds and took control of his health and fitness. Outside of work, he still enjoys Little Debbie cakes but offsets them with rigorous hikes and workouts. He's an avid Manchester United supporter, through thick and thin.

Further reading

Bulking and Cutting: A Beginner’s Guide to Maximizing Your Gains 

by Anthony O'Reilly, CPT

Bulking and cutting can be difficult to do on your own, but there are ways to get it done. Follow our handy guide to find out how. Read more

Best Workout Shorts For Men (2023): Dress for Sweat and Success

by Anthony O'Reilly, CPT

Here’s a familiar story: You bought what you thought was the best protein powder money can buy. It arrives at your door and you excitedly open up the box to try it out. You’re stoked about your get-swole prospects, but all that excitement comes crumbling down when you take a sip of this protein powder and almost spit it back out. Chunks and floaties and an aftertaste you just can’t place. Yuck. Good news: Thanks to our guide to the best-tasting protein powder,  » Read more about: Best-Tasting Protein Powder (2023): Great Flavors to Satisfy Cravings  » Read more

Marathon Record Time: What’s the Fastest Marathon Time Ever?

by Amanda Capritto, CPT, CNC, CES, CF-L1

Here’s a familiar story: You bought what you thought was the best protein powder money can buy. It arrives at your door and you excitedly open up the box to try it out. You’re stoked about your get-swole prospects, but all that excitement comes crumbling down when you take a sip of this protein powder and almost spit it back out. Chunks and floaties and an aftertaste you just can’t place. Yuck. Good news: Thanks to our guide to the best-tasting protein powder,  » Read more about: Best-Tasting Protein Powder (2023): Great Flavors to Satisfy Cravings  » Read more

ProForm ZT4 Review (2023): An Older Model With No Frills

by Nicole Davis, CPT, PN1-NC

The ProForm ZT4 is an older-model treadmill from a respected brand. See how this entry-level machine stacks up in our ProForm ZT4 review. Read more