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Top 11 Best Protein Powders

Written by Andrew Le, MD

UpdatedMay 14, 2024

Protein powder is a popular supplement among fitness enthusiasts and athletes. It's an easy way to increase protein intake, which is essential for building and repairing muscles. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best protein powder for your needs.

Top 3 Best Protein Powders

  1. Crazy Nutrition Tri-Protein
  2. WelleCo Nourishing Protein
  3. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder

If you're looking to supplement your diet with extra protein, protein powder is a convenient and effective option. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That's why we've compiled a list of the best protein powders to help you make an informed decision. From whey to plant-based options, we've got you covered.

Crazy Nutrition Tri-Protein Whey Powder

The Editor's Choice

Achieve the ultimate muscle growth with CrazyNutrition Tri-Protein. By combining high-quality whey, casein, and egg white sources, this powerful blend of amino acids enhances recovery and promotes optimal development.

Order Crazy Nutrition Tri-Protein Now!

Crazy Nutrition Tri-Protein stands out as an exceptional protein powder choice, offering a balanced blend of three high-quality protein sources. This innovative formula combines whey, casein, and egg white proteins to provide a comprehensive amino acid profile that supports muscle growth, recovery, and overall fitness goals. Its unique tri-protein composition ensures a sustained release of amino acids, allowing for both rapid absorption and prolonged nourishment. With Crazy Nutrition Tri-Protein, users can experience a versatile and effective supplement that caters to various dietary and training needs.

Pros

  • The inclusion of whey, casein, and egg white proteins ensures a diverse array of amino acids, promoting muscle growth, repair, and overall health.
  • The combination of fast-acting whey and slow-digesting casein creates a sustained protein release, offering prolonged nourishment for muscles.
  • With its abundant amino acid compilation, the powder plays a pivotal role in diminishing muscle soreness and amplifying post-exercise recuperation.

Cons

  • Costly
  • Those with egg allergies must exercise caution and abstain from this product due to its egg white protein content.
Order WelleCo Nourishing Protein Now!

WelleCo's Nourishing Protein is a standout in the realm of vegan protein powders, designed with a holistic approach to support muscle recovery, alleviate bloating, and boost energy levels. This powder is crafted from gluten-free, non-GMO ingredients, and is enriched with prebiotics, probiotics, herbal extracts, vitamins, and minerals, offering complete nourishment in every serving.

WelleCo Nourishing Protein excels in its performance, particularly for those seeking a vegan protein option. Users report noticeable improvements in muscle recovery and energy levels, making it an excellent choice for post-workout nutrition. The inclusion of prebiotics and probiotics also helps in reducing bloating and improving digestive health. Additionally, its ability to balance blood sugar levels makes it a suitable snack or meal replacement, particularly in the afternoon slump.

Pros:

  • Versatility: Can be easily incorporated into smoothies, shakes, or even baked goods.
  • Taste: Generally well-received for its delicious flavor, which is often a challenge for plant-based proteins.
  • Nutritional Profile: The comprehensive blend of nutrients supports overall health and well-being.
  • Digestibility: Gentle on the stomach, with reduced chances of bloating compared to other protein powders.

Cons:

  • Price: Higher price point compared to other protein powders, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious consumers.
  • Texture: Some users may find the texture slightly gritty, which is common in plant-based proteins.
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If you're looking for a high-quality protein powder, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder is definitely worth considering.

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder is a great choice for anyone looking for a protein powder that delivers results. With its high-quality ingredients and versatile formula, it's perfect for anyone who wants to build and maintain muscle, support muscle recovery, and get the extra protein they need to fuel their workouts.

One of the biggest pros of this protein powder is that it provides 24g of all-whey protein per serving. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to build and maintain muscle when taken over time with regular resistance training. Additionally, it contains 5.5g of naturally occurring branched chain amino acids (BCAA) and 11g of naturally occurring essential amino acids (EAAs) per serving, which can help support muscle recovery.

Another great thing about Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder is that it's an anytime formula. This means that it can be taken before or after exercise, between meals, with a meal, or any time of day when you need extra protein. This makes it a versatile choice for anyone who wants to supplement their protein intake.

However, there are some cons to consider as well. Some users may find the taste too sweet, which could be a turnoff for some. Additionally, the powder may not mix well with water, which could make it difficult to drink. Finally, it's worth noting that the powder contains soy lecithin, which may be a concern for some users.

Overall, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder is a high-quality protein powder that delivers results. It's perfect for anyone who wants to build and maintain muscle, support muscle recovery, and get the extra protein they need to fuel their workouts.

Pros

  • Provides 24g of all-whey protein per serving to help build and maintain muscle when taken over time with regular resistance training
  • Contains 5.5g of naturally occurring branched chain amino acids (BCAA) and 11g of naturally occurring essential amino acids (EAAs) per serving to support muscle recovery
  • Anytime formula – great before or after exercise, between meals, with a meal, or any time of day when you need extra protein

Cons

  • Some users may find the taste too sweet
  • May not mix well with water
  • Contains soy lecithin, which may be a concern for some users
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If you're looking for a protein powder that is easy on the stomach, gluten-free, and packed with protein, Dymatize ISO100 Hydrolyzed Protein Powder is a great option.

Dymatize ISO100 Hydrolyzed Protein Powder is a great option for those looking to build muscle size and strength. The fast-digesting hydrolyzed whey protein isolate ensures that your body is getting the protein it needs to build muscle.

The 25 grams of protein per serving, which includes 5.5 grams of BCAAs and 2.6 grams of Leucine, make this a great option for those looking to up their protein intake.

With zero grams of fat and less than 1 gram of sugar per serving, this protein powder is a great option for those looking to keep their diet clean.

While the Fruity Pebbles flavor may not be for everyone, those who enjoy the taste will appreciate the added sweetness without the extra calories.

The price point may be higher than some other protein powders, but the quality of the ingredients and the results make it worth the investment.

Some users may prefer a protein powder with more ingredients for added benefits, but those looking for a simple, effective protein powder will appreciate the purity of Dymatize ISO100 Hydrolyzed Protein Powder.

Pros

  • Scientifically formulated with fast-digesting hydrolyzed whey protein isolate.
  • 25 grams of protein, which includes 5.5 grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), & 2.6 grams of Leucine per serving.
  • Zero grams of fat and less than 1 gram of sugar per serving.

Cons

  • The Fruity Pebbles flavor may not be for everyone.
  • The price point may be higher than some other protein powders.
  • Some users may prefer a protein powder with more ingredients for added benefits.
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If you're looking for a protein powder that tastes amazing and delivers results, then GHOST Whey Protein Powder, Oreo is the perfect choice for you.

GHOST Whey Protein Powder, Oreo is a versatile and delicious protein powder that is perfect for post-workout shakes, smoothies, baking, and cooking. The real Oreo cookie pieces in every scoop make it taste amazing, and the fully disclosed whey protein blend delivers 25G of pure protein per scoop. The transparent label ensures you know exactly what you're getting in each scoop, and the BE SEEN mantra of the brand makes it perfect for those who want to make an impact beyond the gym.

Overall, GHOST Whey Protein Powder, Oreo is a great choice for anyone looking for a protein powder that tastes amazing and delivers results. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or just looking to add more protein to your diet, this protein powder is sure to satisfy. So why wait? Try it today and see for yourself!

Pros

  • The real Oreo cookie pieces make it taste amazing.
  • The fully disclosed whey protein blend delivers 25G of pure protein per scoop.
  • The transparent label ensures you know exactly what you're getting in each scoop.

Cons

  • The cookie pieces may not be suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
  • The powder can be a bit clumpy if not mixed properly.
  • Some may find the price to be a bit high compared to other protein powders
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If you're looking for a protein powder that can help you rebuild lean muscle faster and support your immune system, then Body Fortress Super Advanced Whey Protein Powder is a great option.

Body Fortress Super Advanced Whey Protein Powder is an excellent choice for those who want to increase their protein intake. It contains 60 grams of protein and 12 grams of BCAA’s per every two scoop serving, which helps you train harder and rebuild lean muscle faster. Additionally, it is great for pre and post-workout or as needed throughout the day to meet daily protein recommendations. The amino acids in this protein powder are free from aspartame and gluten, making it a healthy choice for those with dietary restrictions.

However, the taste of this protein powder may not be as good as some other protein powders on the market. Additionally, the packaging may vary, which can be a bit confusing for some users. Finally, some users may experience digestive discomfort when consuming this protein powder, so it is important to start with a small serving size and gradually increase it over time.

Pros

  • Contains 60 grams of protein and 12 grams of BCAA’s per every two scoop serving, which helps you train harder and rebuild lean muscle faster.
  • Great for pre and post-workout or as needed throughout the day to meet daily protein recommendations.
  • Contains amino acids with no aspartame and no gluten.

Cons

  • The taste is not as good as some other protein powders on the market.
  • The packaging may vary.
  • Some users may experience digestive discomfort
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If you are looking for a high-quality protein supplement that will help you build muscle and recover faster, then Dymatize Elite Whey Protein Powder is an excellent choice.

Dymatize Elite Whey Protein Powder is an excellent source of protein that is perfect for pre and post-workout supplementation. It is fast-digesting and quick-absorbing, which means that your body will get the nutrients it needs to build muscle and recover faster.

Each serving of Dymatize Elite Whey Protein Powder contains 25 grams of 100% whey protein, which is considered to be the best source of protein due to its high biological value, amino acid profile, and fast absorption.

In addition to protein, Dymatize Elite Whey Protein Powder also contains 5.5 grams of BCAAs and 2.7 grams of L-Leucine per serving. BCAAs help promote the building of protein, as well as help with speeding recovery. L-Leucine is directly involved in activating muscle protein synthesis, the process that builds your muscles and allows you to get stronger.

Overall, Dymatize Elite Whey Protein Powder is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality protein supplement that will help them build muscle and recover faster. While it may be a bit pricey, the quality is well worth it.

Pros

  • Provides 25 grams of 100% whey protein per serving
  • Contains 5.5 grams of BCAAs and 2.7 grams of L-Leucine per serving
  • Scientifically proven, fast-digesting, and quick-absorbing

Cons

  • Packaging may vary
  • Not eligible for international shipping
  • A bit pricey
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If you're looking for a powerful protein formula that can help you build lean muscle, increase strength and enhance performance, then MuscleTech Nitro-Tech is definitely worth considering.

MuscleTech Nitro-Tech is a protein powder that absorbs fast and digests easily, thanks to its ultra-pure, rapidly absorbed and quickly digested whey peptides. It is a great daily workout supplement that can help you recover faster, build more lean muscle and get better results from your training sessions.

The creatine monohydrate in this protein powder can help you start re-imagining the limits of size and strength with pure, HPLC-tested creatine. Scientific studies have shown that it helps replenish ATP stores in the body for enhanced performance, more muscle and an increase in strength.

Overall, if you're looking for a protein powder that can help you build lean muscle, increase strength and enhance performance, then MuscleTech Nitro-Tech is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

  • This protein powder contains a scientifically engineered whey plus isolate lean muscle builder formula that is designed for more muscle, more strength and better performance.
  • It has 5g of glutamine & precursor, 6.8g of BCAA and a clinically studied 3g dose of HPLC-tested creatine monohydrate to help build lean muscle, increase strength and enhance performance for men & women.
  • In a 6-week, double-blind study involving the core ingredients of Nitro-Tech, subjects gained 70% more lean muscle than those using regular whey (8.8 vs 5.1 lbs) and increased their bench press more (34 vs 14 lbs).

Cons

  • This product is not eligible for international shipping.
  • It should be used as a food supplement only and not for weight reduction.
  • The vanilla flavor might not be suitable for everyone's taste
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If you are looking for a protein powder that is effective and safe to use, then MusclePharm Combat Protein Powder is a great option to consider.

MusclePharm Combat Protein Powder is a great choice for athletes who demand a more effective protein. The formula is precision-engineered with protein from five unique protein sources, including whey protein concentrates, hydrolysates & isolates, egg albumin, and milk protein concentrate. This blend of protein sources helps maximize proper protein utilization and fuel your muscles during workouts.

In addition to being effective, MusclePharm Combat Protein Powder is also safe to use. It is banned-substance tested and certified by Informed-Choice and Informed-Protein, so athletes can take it with confidence.

However, some users may find the price a little steep, and the taste may be too chocolatey for some. Additionally, the powder may not mix well with water or milk, which can be frustrating.

Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality protein powder that is effective and safe to use, MusclePharm Combat Protein Powder is definitely worth considering.

Pros

  • Provides 25 grams of high-quality protein per serving
  • Contains a blend of protein sources that digest at varying rates, which helps fuel your muscles during workouts
  • Banned-substance tested and certified by Informed-Choice and Informed-Protein, so athletes can take it with confidence

Cons

  • Some users find the price a little steep
  • The taste may be too chocolatey for some
  • The powder may not mix well with water or milk
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If you're looking for a protein powder that's made from quality ingredients and tastes great, then Levels Vanilla Bean Whey Protein is definitely worth considering.

Levels Vanilla Bean Whey Protein is a high-quality protein powder that's made from grass-fed, hormone-free dairy. It contains 24g of protein per scoop, which is perfect for anyone looking to build muscle or maintain their current muscle mass. Additionally, it's made with Madagascar Vanilla Extract and lightly sweetened with monk fruit extract, which gives it a delicious flavor without any added sugars or artificial flavors.

One of the standout features of Levels Whey Protein is that it's made from quality ingredients. Grass-fed, hormone-free dairy is the only dairy used to make the whey protein concentrate, which means that it's loaded with high-quality complete protein and essential amino acids. Additionally, each batch is cold-process microfiltered and blended with non-GMO sunflower lecithin, which ensures that it mixes easily and smoothly.

Another benefit of Levels Vanilla Bean Whey Protein is that it's free from a lot of the things that people try to avoid in protein powders. It's naturally delicious, which means that there are no added sugars, artificial flavors, or sweeteners. Additionally, it's gluten-free, soy-free, and doesn't contain any fillers or bleach.

While Levels Vanilla Bean Whey Protein is a great option for anyone looking for a high-quality protein powder, it may not be the best choice for everyone. It's more expensive than some other protein powders on the market, and it only comes in one flavor. Additionally, some users have reported that it doesn't mix as well as other protein powders, which can be frustrating when you're trying to make a quick shake.

Overall, if you're looking for a protein powder that's made from quality ingredients and tastes great, then Levels Vanilla Bean Whey Protein is definitely worth considering. It's a little more expensive than some other options, but the quality of the ingredients and the delicious flavor make it a great choice for anyone looking to build muscle or maintain their current muscle mass.

Pros

  • Contains 24g of protein per scoop
  • Made with grass-fed, hormone-free dairy
  • No added sugars or artificial flavors

Cons

  • May be more expensive than other protein powders
  • Only comes in one flavor
  • May not mix as well as other protein powders
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Isopure Unflavored Protein is a high-quality protein source that provides 25 grams per serving to support muscle building and recovery. It is stripped of fat, carbs, fillers, sugars, and lactose, making it easy to add to any food and beverage. It is so pure that you won't even taste it.

Isopure Unflavored WPI powder is a perfect fit for those watching their calorie intakes as it contains zero/low carb options. It has 5.67 g of naturally occurring BCAA's in every serving and is Lactose and Gluten-Free. It also has 2.57 grams of naturally occurring L-Glutamine in every serving. There are no additives, just pure, naked protein.

This protein powder can help support your ketogenic macros and can be used to make a variety of delicious recipes. It is perfect for those who are looking for a no-BS protein powder that contains only two ingredients: whey protein isolate and soy lecithin. If you are looking for a protein powder that doesn't contain added nonsense ingredients, then Isopure Unflavored WPI powder is the perfect choice for you.

In conclusion, Isopure Unflavored Protein is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality protein powder that is easy to use and provides excellent results. It is perfect for those who want to build muscle, recover faster, and stay healthy.

Pros

  • Provides immune support along with vitamin E, Vitamin C, and zinc
  • Supports your active lifestyle and can be used post-workout, between meals, along with a healthy breakfast, or any time of day
  • Keto-friendly and gluten-free

Cons

  • Some users may not like the unflavored taste
  • Some users may find it a bit expensive compared to other protein powders
  • Some users may experience digestive issues

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying protein powder, it's important to choose the right product that suits your needs and preferences. Here are some key factors to consider before making a purchase:

1. Protein Source

Protein powders can be made from a variety of sources, including whey, casein, soy, pea, rice, and hemp. Each type has its own amino acid profile and absorption rate, which can affect muscle growth and recovery. Whey protein is the most popular choice due to its high bioavailability and fast digestion, but it may not be suitable for people with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. If you prefer a plant-based option, look for powders that contain a blend of different plant proteins to ensure a complete amino acid profile.

2. Protein Content

The protein content per serving can vary widely among different brands and types of protein powder. Some products may have as little as 10 grams of protein per scoop, while others may have 30 grams or more. Keep in mind that more protein doesn't necessarily mean better quality or effectiveness. Look for products that have at least 20 grams of protein per serving and a high percentage of protein per total weight.

3. Additional Ingredients

Many protein powders come with added ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, fiber, and flavorings. While these can be beneficial for some people, others may prefer a more natural and simple product. Check the ingredient list and nutrition facts label to make sure there are no artificial sweeteners, fillers, or unnecessary additives. If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, make sure the product is free from any potential allergens or animal products.

4. Price and Brand Reputation

Protein powders can range from budget-friendly to premium-priced, depending on the brand, quality, and quantity. While it's tempting to go for the cheapest option, keep in mind that quality and effectiveness may be compromised. Look for reputable brands that have third-party testing and certifications to ensure purity and potency. Read reviews and compare prices to find the best value for your money.

Overall, choosing the best protein powder requires careful consideration of your individual needs and goals. By taking the time to research and compare different options, you can find a product that fits your budget, taste, and lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the top-rated protein powders in 2023?

The top-rated protein powders in 2023 are Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey, Dymatize ISO100, and BSN Syntha-6.

2. Which protein powder is the most recommended for beginners?

The most recommended protein powder for beginners is Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey. It is easy to digest, affordable, and has a good taste.

3. What are the best protein powders for weight loss?

The best protein powders for weight loss are Isopure Zero Carb, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey, and MusclePharm Combat Protein Powder. These protein powders are low in calories, high in protein, and help to reduce appetite.

4. What is the best-tasting protein powder on the market?

The best-tasting protein powder on the market is BSN Syntha-6. It comes in a variety of flavors and has a creamy texture.

5. Which protein powder is best for cooking and baking?

The best protein powder for cooking and baking is Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey. It mixes well and does not change the texture of the food.

6. Is plant protein better than whey for overall health?

There is no clear answer to this question. Both plant protein and whey protein have their own benefits. Plant protein is suitable for vegans and vegetarians, while whey protein is a complete protein that contains all the essential amino acids. It ultimately depends on personal preference and dietary needs.

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