Finding the right protein powder can be overwhelming with hundreds of options on the market. We’ve tested and analyzed the top protein supplements to help you find the perfect match for your fitness goals.
Our Top Picks at a Glance:
| Rank | Product | Best For | Price/Serving | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Transparent Labs Whey | Overall Best | $1.83 | 9.5/10 |
| #2 | Legion Whey+ | Taste & Quality | $1.50 | 9.3/10 |
| #3 | Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard | Value | $1.07 | 9.0/10 |
| #4 | Dymatize ISO100 | Fast Absorption | $1.33 | 8.8/10 |
| #5 | Ghost Whey | Flavor Variety | $1.50 | 8.6/10 |
How We Ranked These Protein Powders
- Protein Quality: Source, amino acid profile, and bioavailability
- Purity: Third-party testing, no amino spiking
- Macros: Protein-to-calorie ratio, carbs, and fats
- Mixability: How well it dissolves without clumping
- Taste: Flavor quality across multiple options
- Value: Cost per gram of protein
#1. Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey – Best Overall
Why We Recommend It: Complete transparency with grass-fed whey, no artificial ingredients, and third-party testing for every batch.
Nutrition (Per Scoop)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 28g (highest on list)
- Carbs: 1g | Fat: 0.5g | Sugar: 0g
Key Features
- 100% grass-fed whey protein isolate
- No artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives
- Naturally sweetened with stevia
- Non-GMO certified, Informed Sport certified
Pros: Highest protein (28g), grass-fed source, clean ingredients, excellent mixability
Cons: Premium price ($1.83/serving), limited flavors, only on official site
Price: $59.99 for 30 servings | Best Deal: Subscribe and save 10%
#2. Legion Whey+ – Best Tasting Premium Option
Why We Recommend It: Science-backed formulation with genuinely great taste – one of the few proteins that tastes good with just water.
Nutrition (Per Scoop)
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 3g | Fat: 1g | Sugar: 1g
Key Features
- 100% whey isolate from Irish grass-fed cows
- Naturally sweetened with stevia and erythritol
- Lecithin-free (better digestion)
- Lactose-free
Pros: Exceptional taste (Cereal Milk, Fruity Cereal), mixes perfectly, no bloating
Cons: Slightly lower protein (22g), premium pricing
Price: $44.99 for 30 servings | Best Deal: Subscribe for 20% off
#3. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard – Best Value
Why We Recommend It: The #1 selling protein for over a decade – reliable quality at a price that won’t break the bank.
Nutrition (Per Scoop)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 3g | Fat: 1g | Sugar: 1g
- 5.5g BCAAs, 4g glutamine per serving
Pros: Unbeatable value ($1.07/serving), available everywhere, 20+ flavors, trusted brand
Cons: Contains artificial ingredients, blend (not pure isolate)
Price: $32.99 for 30 servings | Best Deal: Amazon Subscribe & Save 15% off
#4. Dymatize ISO100 – Best for Fast Absorption
Why We Recommend It: Hydrolyzed whey isolate – the fastest absorbing protein available. Perfect for post-workout.
Nutrition (Per Scoop)
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 1g | Fat: 0g | Sugar: 0g
Pros: Fastest absorption, ultra-lean macros, great for cutting, mixes instantly
Cons: Hydrolyzed taste slightly bitter, artificial sweeteners
Price: $39.99 for 30 servings | Best Deal: Amazon Subscribe & Save
#5. Ghost Whey – Best Flavor Variety
Why We Recommend It: Official brand collaborations – Oreo, Chips Ahoy, Nutter Butter. If you’re tired of boring vanilla, Ghost delivers.
Nutrition (Per Scoop)
- Calories: 130
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 4g | Fat: 1.5g | Sugar: 2g
Pros: Best flavors in industry, actual Oreo pieces, fun brand
Cons: Higher carbs/sugar, blend not pure isolate
Price: $44.99 for 28 servings | Best Deal: GNC or Amazon
Types of Protein Explained
- Whey Concentrate: 70-80% protein, budget-friendly, contains some lactose
- Whey Isolate: 90%+ protein, less lactose, better for cutting
- Hydrolyzed Whey: Pre-digested, fastest absorption, easiest on stomach
- Casein: Slow-digesting (6-8 hrs), best before bed
How Much Protein Do You Need?
| Goal | Protein Intake |
|---|---|
| Maintenance | 0.7-0.8g per lb bodyweight |
| Muscle Building | 0.8-1.0g per lb bodyweight |
| Cutting | 1.0-1.2g per lb bodyweight |
Our Final Verdict
- Best Overall: Transparent Labs – Premium quality, clean ingredients
- Best Tasting: Legion Whey+ – Enjoyable flavors, easy compliance
- Best Value: ON Gold Standard – Proven quality, unbeatable price
- Best for Cutting: Dymatize ISO100 – Fastest absorption, leanest macros
- Best Flavors: Ghost Whey – Official collabs that taste amazing
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.