The 10 Best Protein Powders

Fitness Tools

This review has been updated 25 times since it was first published in February of 2021. If you’ve been hitting the gym like crazy, but aren’t seeing the results you’d like, you may not be giving your muscles the fuel they need to be at their best. These whey protein powders may provide the nutrition necessary to reach new heights, so you can enjoy the fruits of your labors. They can be mixed or baked into food or used to make satisfying smoothies.

10. Cellucor Cor-Performance

Cellucor Cor-Performance contains plenty of BCAAs to ensure that the protein is used in muscle synthesis, instead of just passed through your digestive system. The low-calorie formula prevents you from packing on the wrong kind of bulk when training heavily.

Thick consistency curbs hunger
30-day money-back guarantee
Stays clumpy even after mixing

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9. BSN Syntha-6

BSN Syntha-6 has more fat and calories than many other options, so unless you’re a serious athlete, you may find yourself getting big in all the wrong places. Those who put the time in at the gym, though, will love how quickly they recover, thanks to all the BCAAs.

Packed with fiber
Good as a meal replacement
Not ideal for cutting

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8. Beverly International UMP

The makers of Beverly International UMP understand that downing shake after shake gets old fast, which is why they include recipes for everything from brownies to oatmeal on their website. This is one of the best options for cooking.

Pairs well with fruit
Low in carbohydrates
Contains artificial sweeteners

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7. CytoSport Muscle Milk

If chugging a shake gives you heartburn, try CytoSport Muscle Milk, which is extremely easy on the stomach, allowing you to bulk up without feeling ill. It’s great for giving you all-day energy in addition to a leaner physique, but it does taste somewhat chalky.

100-percent gluten-free
Contains no trans fats
Doesn’t blend well in water

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6. Sascha Fitness

Sascha Fitness doesn’t try to be tasteless, choosing instead to be delicious. It comes in five flavors, and is ideal for anyone with a sweet tooth who doesn’t want to give up desserts — but who also doesn’t want to carry around the evidence of them, either.

Doesn’t make you feel bloated
Very low in sodium
Some flavors are a bit cloying

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5. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard contains four grams of glutamine per serving, which can help to improve immune cell activity in the gut, while also reducing infections and inflammation. This essential amino acid is used to produce energy in the body.

Won’t stick to cups or shakers
More than 25 flavors to choose from
Thin no matter what its mixed with

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4. Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate

Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate offers some of the highest protein levels you’ll find anywhere, and it does so without adding a ton of carbs or cholesterol. It eschews artificial sweeteners as well but, as a result, you’ll want to dress up the flavor yourself.

Doesn’t require a blender to mix
Solid value for the money
Can get really foamy

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3. Legion Low Calorie

Those looking for something that isn’t bogged down with additives will find Legion Low Calorie appealing. It’s made with hormone-free milk sourced from small Irish dairy farms and, since the lactose is removed, there’s less chance of it upsetting your stomach.

High levels of leucine
Cold-processed for purity
Manufactured in the united states

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2. TGS All Natural

This option from TGS All Natural contains only two ingredients, so your body gets just what it needs and nothing else. It’s virtually tasteless, so you can add it to coconut water, peanut butter, or even your morning coffee without having to scrape your tongue afterwards.

Dissolves quickly and easily
Ziploc-style bag preserves freshness
Helps stabilize blood sugar

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1. Pure Label Nutrition

Sourced from grass-fed cows in California, this Pure Label Nutrition has a slightly sweet flavor that lends itself well to fruit juices or coffee drinks. It doesn’t have a grainy texture when mixed, making it a great choice for those with sensitive palates.

Massive 5-lb container
Doesn’t have an aftertaste
Good for delicate stomachs