Protein powders can make hitting those all-important protein goals a little easier — but how do you choose? (Amazon, Just Ingredients)
Protein powders aren't just for bodybuilders and athletes — they've become a pantry essential for millions of Americans. Entire stores are dedicated to dietary supplements, and there's no shortage of options online, so finding the best protein powder isn't always easy. From dessert-inspired flavors (hello, double chocolate brownie) and plant-based blends to whey isolates high in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), there are products to suit most diets, health goals and taste buds.
Why protein powders? For busy parents, athletes, commuters and students, getting enough protein can be an uphill battle, explains Emily Hulse of Emily Grace Nutrition, a registered dietitian. Upping your protein intake isn't just for the younger generations or pro athletes. Aging adults have increased protein needs, and protein powders offer a convenient, easy way to promote strong bones and combat muscle loss. Although protein bars and protein shakes can also help, some find protein powder more convenient.
Protein powder can help counteract age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia) and support bone health," explains Marjorie Nolan Cohn, a registered dietitian and clinical director of Berry Street, an online platform that connects patients with dietitians. Plus, protein powders are shelf-stable and adaptable, fitting into almost any routine.
Picking the right protein powder can feel like navigating a jungle of scoops, labels and bold claims. To cut through the confusion, we turned to three registered dietitians for their take. As a dietitian myself, I dove in too — reviewing over 20 brands and taste-testing 18 of them. Keep reading to discover the protein powders that deserve a spot in your shaker bottle.
A note on supplements
The products included on this list are dietary supplements. Statements about these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dietary supplements are not appropriate for everyone and may interact with other supplements or medications, so talk to your healthcare provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine.
Update, July 10, 2025: We’ve confirmed current pricing and availability for all products. Our No. 1 pick remains unchanged.
Protein per serving: 25 g | Serving size: 2 scoops (30 g) | Nutrition facts (Unflavored): 120 calories, 3 g carbs, 2 g fat | Sweeteners: None (unflavored), organic coconut sugar (flavored) | Cost per serving: $1.39
Naked Whey earns our best overall pick thanks to its impressively short ingredient list, third-party certification and reasonable price. The powder mixes easily and is available in five flavors, plus an unflavored variety. Each two-scoop-size serving provides an impressive 25 grams of protein to support muscle synthesis and is relatively low in calories and saturated fat.
I've tried several Naked Whey flavors over the years (RIP, Naked Matcha) and am continually impressed by the smooth consistency and solid flavor profiles. Because I don't like the taste (or aftertaste) of stevia and sugar alcohols, Naked Whey earned extra points for being sweetened with organic coconut sugar. That said, because it's sweetened with real sugar, flavored varieties contain 3-5 grams of added sugar per serving, which may be a deal-breaker if you're following a low-carb diet or trying to manage your blood sugar levels.
Naked Whey is made from pasture-fed cow's milk and is third-party certified by Informed Choice. It's also gluten-free and contains zero artificial additives. Its unflavored option is made from just one ingredient: whey protein concentrate. Keep in mind that whey concentrate contains more lactose than isolate and may cause unwanted GI side effects in some people. That said, many reviewers report no such problems. One five-star Amazon reviewer enthuses, "All I can say is ... wow! This has changed my day and been a value add to my life. It tastes great, I feel so satiated and am no longer snacking at all, no intolerance issues and no gas. I have consistent energy levels through the day."
Protein per serving: 25 g | Serving size: 2 scoops (38 g) | Nutrition facts (Chocolate): 160 calories, 8 g carbs, 4 g fat | Sweeteners: None (unsweetened), organic coconut sugar (flavored varieties) | Cost per serving: $1.16
Building muscle on a vegan diet? It's not as tricky as you think — especially with our favorite plant-based protein powder. Offering a hefty 25-27 grams of protein per serving and containing all nine essential amino acids, Naked Pea is a powerhouse for those looking to gain or maintain muscle while sticking to a plant-based lifestyle. Add to that a clean ingredient list, natural coconut sugar sweeteners, a low per-serving price and no artificial additives, and you've got a powder that checks all the right boxes.
One of the most surprising aspects of Naked Pea is its flavor. Unlike many vegan protein powders that taste overly sweet or have a gritty texture, Naked Pea is refreshingly clean and subtly sweet. Both the chocolate and vanilla flavors are enjoyable even when mixed only with water — no artificial aftertaste here. Plus, its mild flavor makes it versatile and easy to blend into smoothies, shakes or baked goods.
Reviewers agree. One Amazon user said, "I was initially concerned about how much peaness I would taste when I mixed it into things, but its natural flavor is really very mild. The first time I tried it, I thought the pea flavor would overwhelm me, but it was very manageable. So far, the unflavored pea protein seems a great fit for more savory dishes, but I imagine it will mix into smoothies and sweeter things fine."
Naked Pea's pea protein is generally easier to digest and less likely to cause GI side effects than some other plant-based proteins. That said, the powder does have a slightly earthy flavor, which is less noticeable when it's paired with other ingredients, such as oat milk or fruit.
Protein per serving: 24 g | Serving size: 1 scoop (33 g) | Nutrition facts (Vanilla): 140 calories, 5 g carbs, 6 g fat | Sweeteners: Stevia and monk fruit extract | Cost per serving: $2.50
Flavor can make or break a protein powder — no one wants to dread their daily shake! A great-tasting protein powder encourages consistency, making it easier to meet your nutritional goals. That's where Just Ingredients excels.
What sets this brand apart is its ability to deliver consistently tasty flavors across its impressive lineup of options, all of which I enjoyed. From rich Vanilla Bean to indulgent Mint Chocolate, each tastes natural and balanced. This is no small feat, as protein powders often rely on artificial sweeteners and flavorings that leave a bitter or overly sweet aftertaste. Just Ingredients avoids that by using natural ingredients like cacao, strawberries and peppermint oil.
Another key advantage is how the powder is sweetened. It uses stevia and monk fruit, which provide a subtle sweetness without the cloying aftertaste often associated with stevia. Even for someone who typically avoids stevia-based products, the flavor profile here feels smooth and satisfying.
Beyond taste, the formulation is thoughtful and clean. With a unique blend of grass-fed whey isolate, grass-fed collagen, chia seed and pumpkin seed proteins, it's ideal for people looking for a high-quality product free from artificial flavors, colors and additives. It's versatile too — you can blend it into a smoothie, mix it with oats or simply shake it up with water. Another bonus is no unpleasant side effects. An Amazon reviewer notes, "It's also easy on the stomach, so no bloating or discomfort after drinking it."
That said, at about $2 per serving, it's pricier than some alternatives. It also contains 4.5 grams of saturated fat per serving, about 25% of your recommended daily intake. These factors may be worth weighing, depending on your priorities.
Protein per serving: 20 g | Serving size: 1 scoop (26.2 g) | Nutrition facts (Chocolate): 90 calories, 2 g carbs, fat not listed | Sweeteners: Monk fruit extract and stevia | Cost per serving: $2.20
Building muscle requires high-quality protein and the right amino acid profile to fuel recovery and growth. Our top choice for muscle gain, Momentous Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate, checks all of the boxes Cohn recommends for big gains.
Specifically, it contains 20 grams of protein per serving from a high-quality protein source — grass-fed whey isolate. It's also high in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs); with more than 2 grams of leucine per serving, it helps muscles get the fuel they need for growth and recovery. Plus, it's NSF Certified for Sport, which ensures it's free from banned substances and meets high purity standards, making it suitable for competitive athletes.
One happy Amazon reviewer called it "one of the best whey protein supplements I've used." They added that it's great-tasting and, "I've noticed less soreness following a workout and the gains are more than I am accustomed to."
I was impressed by how easily this powder mixed with water in my blender bottle. After just a few vigorous shakes, the mixture was completely smooth with zero gritty or chalky texture. Flavorwise, chocolate is the way to go. It isn't the richest or creamiest chocolate protein powder on our list. However, I appreciated it for its solid flavor and zero artificial taste or aftertaste. The vanilla was a bit of a mixed bag for me. While it wasn't artificial-tasting, the stevia was more noticeable. Also worth considering: the relatively high price per serving.
If you follow a plant-based diet, the company's vegan powder is worth considering. Similar to its whey counterpart, Momentous 100% Plant Protein has 20 grams of protein per serving, contains all nine essential amino acids and is high in BCAAs to support muscle synthesis. I particularly enjoyed the chocolate, which was smooth and refreshing after an afternoon workout session.
Protein per serving: 20 g | Serving size: 2 scoops (40 g) | Nutrition facts (Vanilla): 150 calories, 13 g carbs, 2 g fat | Sweeteners: Organic coconut sugar | Cost per serving: $1.85
If you've tried plant-based protein powders before, you've probably dealt with gritty texture or weirdly sweet or dirtlike flavors. That's why this moderately priced Orgain option takes the top spot as the best-tasting plant-based powder — it's a refreshing change! Made with just a few simple ingredients and naturally sweetened with coconut sugar, it tastes clean and doesn't leave that artificial aftertaste so many other powders do.
The flavor? So good. Chocolate and vanilla both have a rich, slightly nutty taste that feels like a treat instead of something you're forcing yourself to drink. The chocolate is creamy and satisfying, perfect for when you're craving something sweet, and the vanilla is light and smooth. I loved mixing it into a smoothie with frozen banana, spinach and oat milk for a healthy twist on a milkshake. However, because it has a thick, full-bodied flavor and consistency, the powder was perfectly enjoyable when combined with just plain old water or plant-based milk too.
"Great taste and NO STEVIA," said one Amazon reviewer. "The cool thing here is that you get all the benefits of a vegan protein powder but no stevia and a relatively low sugar content. ... It's really tasty, holds me until lunch (roughly four hours), and keeps my energy level on an even keel."
Each serving gives you 20 grams of protein from a blend of pea, rice, peanut, almond, pumpkin seed and chia seed proteins. This powder is also certified organic and plant-based. One downside to note is that while Orgain conducts in-house testing for purity, the brand doesn't utilize third-party testing, something that might be important to some buyers.
Protein per serving: 20 g | Serving size: 1 scoop (22.3 g) | Nutrition facts: 85 calories, 1 g carbs, fat not listed | Sweeteners: None | Cost per serving: $2.98
Unflavored protein powders allow you to add protein to your diet without altering the taste of your favorite foods or drinks. They're ideal for blending into smoothies, shakes or recipes like overnight oats without clashing with other flavors. Plus, unflavored options often have fewer additives, making them a cleaner choice for those who prefer simplicity in their supplements.
This Klean Athlete powder takes the top spot in the unflavored category for its high-quality whey isolate protein and versatility. Each serving delivers 20 grams of protein, including all nine essential amino acids and a healthy dose of BCAAs to support muscle recovery and growth. It's NSF Certified for Sport, so it's free from banned substances, a huge bonus for competitive athletes. Of course, this comes at a cost — the highest per-serving price on our list.
During testing, the powder mixed effortlessly in a blender bottle, though it did have a slightly chalky texture. This made it a better fit for recipes and blended drinks rather than stirring into plain beverages. As one reviewer said, "Great for smoothies," adding, "I was looking for a protein powder for my smoothies, this one works well. Doesn't have the horrible aftertaste a lot of them do. Mixes in nice without any clumps."
While I didn't try it in coffee, several reviewers mention that the powder isn't the best for stirring into beverages — in other words, it's best shaken, not stirred!
Protein per serving: 23 g | Serving size: 2 scoops (31 g) | Nutrition facts (Vanilla): 130 calories, 3 g carbs, 3 g fat | Sweeteners: Monk fruit extract | Cost per serving: $2.50
If you're on the hunt for an organic protein powder that doesn’t compromise on quality or taste, Ora is a top choice. This USDA-certified organic powder is packed with all-natural, plant-based ingredients, offering a complete amino acid profile. Plus, it's certified vegan.
One reason this powder earned its spot as the best organic option is Ora's recent reformulation. Listening to customer feedback, the brand revamped the recipe to remove stevia and improve its consistency. The result is a protein powder that's smooth and versatile. During testing, the vanilla flavor stood out for its silky texture and mild, natural sweetness, while the Vanilla Chai offered a spiced twist, though it did have a slightly grainy texture that required extra shaking.
Reviewers love this powder too. In fact, one five-star reviewer called it the "best protein powder on the market." They added, "Very clean protein powder with no weird additives. I buy the unflavored, which I put not only in smoothies but in my morning oatmeal with blueberries."
Another notable feature is 5 grams of iron per serving, which provides 27% of the daily value for women under 50. This can be a major perk if you want to boost your iron intake, especially since plant-based eaters are more prone to iron deficiencies. However, if you're already meeting your iron needs or have low iron requirements, this might be an unnecessary addition. The relatively high price is also worth noting.
Choosing the right protein powder is no small task. Here's a breakdown of the most common types to help you decide which one might be the best fit for you:
Whey protein: Whey is a protein in cow's milk rich in amino acids, especially BCAAs like leucine. Whey protein is best known for its effectiveness in increasing muscle mass and strength. It's also been shown to help improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
Whey protein isolate: This highly refined form of whey protein boasts a higher protein concentration while containing significantly less lactose and fat than whey concentrate. Its lower lactose content makes it a gentler option for those with lactose sensitivity. However, it is typically more expensive and may not retain some of the beneficial nutrients present in less processed whey concentrate.
Whey protein concentrate: This less processed form of whey protein is a more budget-friendly option than whey isolate. While it retains more of the beneficial nutrients found in whey, it has a lower protein content and higher levels of lactose and fat, which might not suit everyone, particularly those with lactose sensitivity.
Casein: This is the dominant protein in cow's milk, prized for its slow digestion and absorption. This makes it an excellent choice for muscle recovery during rest periods, such as overnight. Many take casein supplements before bed to ensure a steady supply of amino acids to aid muscle repair while sleeping.
Collagen: Collagen is a protein found in connective tissue, bones, cartilage, tendons and skin. It's often used topically or orally as a supplement to improve hair, skin and nail health.
Pea protein: Derived from yellow split peas, pea protein is a rare plant-based protein source that provides all nine essential amino acids. It's known for being gentle on the digestive system and is less likely to cause gastrointestinal issues than other options. However, pea protein powders can be relatively expensive and often have a mildly earthy flavor, which may not appeal to everyone.
Rice protein: These powders are typically more budget-friendly than other vegan protein options. However, rice protein isn't a complete protein, as it lacks one of the essential amino acids. Additionally, rice-based powders may carry a higher risk of heavy metal contamination, so choosing a trusted brand is crucial.
Plant-based blends: These vegan protein powders are formulated with two or more plant-based protein sources and often contain all nine essential amino acids.
Finding the best protein powder involves weighing several factors to ensure it meets your nutritional needs and fits your lifestyle. Here are the key things to keep in mind when you're shopping:
Protein source: Start by deciding which protein best suits your needs, such as whey, casein or plant-based options. Each has its benefits and drawbacks, so consider your dietary restrictions and preferences.
Protein content per serving: The amount per serving should match your daily protein needs. Around 20 grams per serving is a solid baseline for most healthy adults. However, active individuals, athletes and adults over 65 may benefit from powders that offer 25-30 grams of protein per serving.
Calories: Most protein powders contain 100-200 calories per serving. To build muscle or gain weight, consider a mass gainer with extra calories and carbohydrates. Otherwise, select a powder that matches your daily calorie requirements.
Vitamins and minerals: Some protein powders are fortified with vitamins and minerals. For example, some plant-based powders contain additional iron, a nutrient sometimes lacking in a vegan diet. Consider your diet and supplement routine to determine whether you need a powder with additional micronutrients.
Carbs and fat: Choose products with carb and fat levels that suit your dietary preferences and nutritional needs. For instance, if you're on a low-carb diet, opt for a powder with 7 grams of carbs or less per serving.
Intended use: Consider your primary goal. Are you looking to build muscle, lose weight or fill nutritional gaps? Choose a product formulated to support that specific purpose.
Taste and mixability: A powder's taste and how well it mixes are crucial for long-term use. Many companies offer sample-size packets, letting you test flavors and consistency before committing to a full-size product.
Additives, artificial ingredients: When possible, opt for powders with minimal artificial additives, such as flavors, colors, sweeteners, emulsifiers and fillers. Shorter ingredient lists often mean cleaner, higher-quality products.
Dietary restrictions: If you have food allergies or follow a specific diet, ensure your chosen product is compatible. Certifications like certified vegan or gluten-free can help you quickly identify suitable options.
Third-party testing: Dietary supplements are not regulated like pharmaceuticals. To ensure a product contains the types and amounts of ingredients listed on the label, look for protein powders that have been third-party tested by a reputable organization, such as NSF or Informed Choice.
Value: While you don't need to splurge on the most expensive option, it's essential not to sacrifice quality either. Several protein powder brands offer moderately priced products with good-quality ingredients. Most of our top picks fell somewhere between $1 and $3 per serving.
With over 13 years of experience as a registered dietitian (and countless protein shakes under my belt), I've researched and tested a wide range of protein powders. To refine this list, I collaborated with three other registered dietitians to better understand what makes a protein powder stand out based on different dietary needs and preferences.
Combining our expertise, we reviewed products from more than 20 brands, narrowing them down to 18 top contenders. Our selection process focused on ingredient quality, nutritional profiles, third-party certifications, insights from online reviews and personal recommendations from friends and family.
For the first round of testing, I mixed a single serving of each powder with 12 ounces of water (or the amount recommended on the label) in a blender bottle, shaking for at least 30 seconds. I evaluated each product based on how well it mixed, texture, flavor and aftertaste.
To gain a more comprehensive sense of these powders' versatility, I retested each product over the following weeks, incorporating them into blender bottle shakes with oat milk, smoothies and overnight oats. This method allowed me to assess how each powder performed in different scenarios, ultimately helping me determine which ones deserve a spot on your shelf.
BEAM Vegan Protein: Be Amazing (BEAM) Vegan Protein comes in seven dessert-inspired flavors, is third-party tested and contains a relatively short list of ingredients. During testing, its Birthday Cake recipe was a favorite for its smooth texture and on-point vanilla cake flavor. The biggest downside is the use of sucralose, which some experts warn could have long-term adverse health effects.
Factor Form Whey Protein Powder: Factor Form, widely recognized for its prepared meal delivery service, offers a whey protein powder that's smooth, creamy and flavorful — particularly the chocolate. However, it has a higher price tag and is only available in single-serve packets.
Groove Whey Protein Isolate: Groove is a newcomer to the protein powder scene. The company's whey protein isolate offers 25 grams of protein and only 2 grams of carbs, making it a good option for a low-carb diet. Although it contains stevia, it isn't overly noticeable, especially in the Mexican Chocolate flavor. However, it is expensive and only available on the company's website.
Just Ingredients Vegan Protein: Unlike Just Ingredients' whey-based powder, the company's vegan option fell flat. I tried the Roasted Chocolate and was surprised by its bitterness and overpowering cinnamon flavor. The texture was also very grainy.
Ka'Chava All-in-One Nutrition Shake: Essentially a protein powder and multivitamin in one, Ka'Chava is a dietary supplement with gorgeous packaging. I liked the ingredients and quality, but the texture was too grainy and the taste was too earthy. These factors and the high price tag kept Ka'Chava from making our top list.
Momentous 100% Plant Protein: This option is NSF Certified for Sport and formulated to support muscle growth and recovery. While the powder has mixed reviews online, I enjoyed the chocolate flavor. Because it has a thinner consistency and milder flavor, I found it refreshing after a hard workout. The Vanilla Chai, on the other hand, wasn't as enjoyable. While there were notes of cinnamon, it didn't deliver on the promise of chai spice.
Neue Theory Plant-Based Probiotic Protein Powder: This powder is specially formulated to be easy to digest. It includes probiotics, digestive enzymes and all nine essential amino acids, making it a good source of complete plant-based protein. The vanilla flavor was one of my favorites, thanks to its creamy texture and rich vanilla bean taste. The downside is the high price — roughly $3.25 per serving.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey: This widely available whey powder has long been a favorite in the sports supplements industry. With 24 grams of protein per serving and an impressive variety of flavors, it's a solid choice. The Extreme Milk Chocolate flavor delivers richness and sweetness, but the artificial taste and aftertaste were less appealing. Additionally, this powder contains more additives than the other products we tested.
OWYN Plant-Based Protein Powder: This vegan powder is certified allergen-friendly, meaning it's free from eight of the major food allergens. While it has a loyal following, I noticed a strong chemical taste and aftertaste that was hard to ignore. The texture was also very grainy, even when I combined this powder with oat milk.
Vega Premium Sport Protein: This powder is a solid option for athletes dedicated to a vegan lifestyle. It is NSF Certified for Sport and delivers an impressive 30 grams of complete protein per serving. It also includes 5 grams of BCAAs and tart cherry extract to aid muscle recovery. It's available in five stevia-sweetened flavors — a potential downside for those sensitive to stevia's distinct taste, which is prominent in this formulation.
Whole foods alone can meet the daily protein needs of most healthy adults. However, if you supplement your diet with protein powder, sticking to 1 to 2 servings daily is generally safe and sufficient.
"The best time to drink a protein shake depends on your goals," says Jessica Kelly, a registered dietitian with Nutrition That Heals. She explains that for building muscle, consuming a protein shake within 30 minutes after a workout can support muscle recovery and growth.
On the other hand, if your focus is weight management or hunger control, protein shakes can serve as an excellent meal replacement or a satisfying snack. They help you curb your appetite and maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day.
"Yes, protein powder can support weight loss by promoting satiety, preserving lean muscle mass and stabilizing blood sugar levels," explains Kelly.
However, it's important to remember that protein powder isn't a magic solution for shedding pounds. Since it adds calories to your diet, consuming too much could lead to weight gain if it pushes you beyond your daily calorie requirements.
Protein powders are typically safe for daily use. However, consuming too much protein from powders or other sources can strain your kidneys. To avoid potential issues, healthy adults should limit their daily protein intake to no more than 2 grams per kilogram of body weight.
"Whey isolate is more processed, resulting in a higher protein content (90% or more) and lower fat and lactose levels," Kelly says. She explains that this makes whey isolate an excellent choice for individuals looking for a cleaner protein source or those with lactose sensitivity.
In contrast, whey concentrate contains slightly less protein (70%-80%) and retains more natural fats and carbohydrates, offering a creamier texture and additional nutrients.
There's also a price difference: Whey isolate protein powders are typically more expensive than whey concentrate powders.
Protein per serving | Serving size | Nutrition facts | Sweeteners | Cost per serving | ||
Naked Nutrition Naked Whey | 25 g | 2 scoops (30 g) | (unflavored): 120 calories, 3 g carbs, 2 g fat | None (unflavored) | $1.25 | |
Naked Nutrition Naked Pea Protein Powder | 25 g | 2 scoops (38 g) | (chocolate): 160 calories, 8 g carbs, 4 g fat | None (unsweetened), organic coconut sugar (flavored varieties) | 76 cents | |
Just Ingredients Protein Powder | 24 g | 1 scoop (33 g) | (chocolate): 140 calories, 3 g carbs, 4g fat | Stevia and monk fruit extract | $2 | |
Momentous Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate | 20 g | 1 scoop (26.2 g) | (chocolate): 90 calories, 2 g carbs, fat not listed | Monk fruit extract and stevia | $2.71 | |
Orgain Organic Simple Vegan Protein Powder | 20 g | 2 scoops (40 g) | 150 calories, 13 g carbs, 2 g fat | Organic coconut sugar | $1.61 | |
Klean Athlete Klean Isolate | 20 g | 1 scoop (22.3 g) | 85 calories, 1 g carbs, fat not listed | None | $2.98 | |
Ora Organic So Lean & So Clean | 23 g | 2 scoops (31 g) | 130 calories, 3 g carbs, 3 g fat | Monk fruit extract | $2.50 |
Emily Hulse, MS, RD, founder of Emily Grace Nutrition
Jessica Kelly, RDN, LDN, founder and lead nutrition therapist at Nutrition That Heals
Marjorie Nolan Cohn, MS, RD, LDN, CEDS-S, clinical director of Berry Street
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.