I’m a Certified Sports Nutrition Coach. I Swear by These 15 Whey Protein Powders to Build Muscle

Whey protein powder is a go-to supplement for a reason—it’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to boost your daily protein intake. Whether you’re an athlete or bodybuilder striving to build muscle or simply struggling to meet your protein needs through food alone, adding a whey protein powder to your daily routine can make a big difference.

It’s also important to remember that protein isn’t just for building muscle. Since muscle burns more calories than fat, a high-protein diet can increase your metabolism, helping you to naturally expend more energy throughout your day. And if fat loss is your goal, consuming enough protein is crucial for long-term success. This essential macronutrient keeps you full longer and preserves lean muscle mass, ensuring the weight you lose is coming from fat, and not muscle, when cutting calories.

In this article, we’ve rounded up 15 of the best whey protein powders on the market, evaluating them based on ingredient quality, nutrient profile, taste, mixability, and cost. Whether you're looking for a whey protein powder to fuel your workouts or support your weight loss journey, this guide will help you find the perfect match for your goals.

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Best Whey Protein Powders of 2025

RAW Nutrition Grass-Fed Whey Isolate Protein

RAW Nutrition Grass-Fed Whey Isolate Protein is a fast-digesting protein powder that’s free from artificial ingredients, tastes great, and packs in 25 grams of protein per serving. Available in four flavors, including Dark Chocolate, Vanilla, Cookies' N Cream, and Peanut Butter, you’re sure to find a flavor you’ll enjoy.

What’s great about RAW is its commitment to quality and providing consumers with supplements they can trust. The Grass-Fed Whey Isolate carries not one but two third-party testing certifications, including Informed Sport and Informed Protein. This means that not only is every batch of protein tested for a wide range of substances prohibited in competitive sports, but it’s also regularly tested for purity, ensuring the protein levels listed on the label are accurate.

Beyond its whey isolate powder, RAW also offers a ready-to-drink (RTD) protein shake for those who prefer a convenient, grab-and-go option. Each bottle provides 30 grams of grass-fed isolate protein and is available in unique flavors like Mocha Latte and Salted Caramel, as well as the classics including Chocolate, Vanilla, and Strawberry. That said, the ready-to-drink protein uses artificial sweeteners, such as sucralose and acesulfame potassium to sweeten the product. So, if you’re someone who avoids artificial ingredients, then you’ll likely want to stick with the whey isolate powder instead.

Nutrition Facts, Per Serving

• Calories: 130
• Carbs: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Sugar: 1g

Momentous Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

Momentous Whey Protein Isolate is a premium protein powder that’s sourced from European grass-fed dairy cows that are free from hormones and steroids. A few things I like about this product are that it’s all-natural, using monk fruit and stevia to sweeten the powder, and the inclusion of ProHydrolase digestive enzymes to maximize protein absorption and minimize digestive discomfort. Plus, it’s NSF Certified for Sport, meaning every batch is tested for banned substances, ensuring it’s safe for athletes.

Available in Chocolate, Vanilla, and Unflavored, this powder has a natural flavor and mixes extremely well in your standard shaker bottle, regardless of whether you use water or milk. One thing to note is that Momentous recently released its upgraded protein powder formula, and it's a bit sweeter than the past iteration. That said, I tested both the Chocolate and Vanilla flavors, and they still taste great.

The only minor drawback is that each serving contains 20 grams of protein, which is slightly lower than the standard 25 grams found in many protein powders on the market. However, this is balanced by the product’s high-quality sourcing and digestibility, making it a solid option for those looking for an all-natural, third-party-tested, and tasty formula.

Nutrition Facts, Per Serving

• Calories: 90
• Carbs: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Sodium: 145mg
• Sugar: 1g

Ascent 100% Whey Protein

Ascent 100% Whey Protein is a whey protein isolate that I’ve used consistently over the past five years to enhance my post-workout recovery. What’s kept me coming back for so long is the overall quality of the supplement. It’s free from artificial ingredients, provides 25 grams of fast-digesting protein per serving, mixes effortlessly in a shaker bottle, and is third-party tested and Informed-Sport certified banned substance free.

Beyond the impressive formulation, Ascent Whey also tastes great. Originally available in just two flavors, Chocolate and Vanilla, the brand has expanded its options to include Chocolate Peanut Butter, Mocha Cold Brew, and Cookies and Cream, all of which taste phenomenal. Sweetened only by stevia leaf extract, Ascent strikes a great balance in overall flavor without being sickly sweet or leaving an artificial aftertaste.

At $1.67 per serving, Ascent Whey Protein is priced competitively among the other brands on our list. And considering the quality of ingredients, the lack of artificial additives, and the third-party testing, I believe it offers great value.

Nutrition Facts, Per Serving

• Calories: 120
• Carbs: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Sugar: 1g

XWerks Grow Whey Protein Isolate

XWerks Grow is a 100 percent grass-fed whey protein isolate that delivers over 25 grams of protein and 6 grams of branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) per serving, all while keeping calories low at just 110 per scoop. With almost all of its calories coming from protein, Grow is an excellent choice for those on low-carb or keto diets, as well as individuals who are lactose intolerant. Plus, whey isolate is digested rapidly by the body, which makes Grow a great post-workout option to repair and build your muscles.

What sets Grow apart is XWerks' commitment to quality, sourcing its protein from grass-fed cows in New Zealand that are never exposed to hormones, antibiotics, or pesticides. This focus on purity ensures that consumers get a high-quality supplement without unnecessary additives. Available in Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry, and Peanut Butter flavor options, Grow is naturally sweetened with stevia, offering a balanced taste without the use of artificial sweeteners.

Another standout feature is its smooth mixability. Grow dissolves easily in both water and milk, even in a regular shaker bottle. If you’re looking for a premium-quality whey isolate that delivers on taste, texture, and quality ingredients, Xwerks Grow is a solid choice. Just know that this product also comes at a premium price point of $64 for 30 servings, which is more expensive than other protein powders on our list.

Nutrition Facts, Per Serving

• Calories: 110
• Carbs: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Sugar: 1g

Naked Nutrition Grass-Fed Whey Protein Powder

Naked Whey keeps its protein powder formula simple, comprising just three ingredients, including whey protein concentrate, organic coconut sugar, and natural flavoring. While this ingredient profile is great for consumers who dislike the additives and fillers commonly found in other protein powders, there is a trade-off when it comes to taste. Available in classic flavors such as Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry, and Chocolate Peanut Butter, the flavors are subtle and far less sweet than other protein powders on the market. I would also suggest using a blender to mix this product since a serving is a hefty two scoops of powder that delivers 25 grams of protein and 5.9 grams of branched chain amino acids.

A major benefit of the Naked Whey product is that it’s sourced from small California dairy farms. The cows are grass-fed year-round and raised without growth hormones like rBGH or rBST. The product is also Informed Choice Certified, which means it's certified banned substance free and safe for athletes who compete in drug-tested sports.

While Naked Whey comes with a $95 price tag, it’s for a large five-pound container (76 servings), making it a cost-effective choice at just $1.24 per serving. Plus, you can lower the price to just $1 per serving if you take advantage of Naked’s 20 percent subscribe and save discount, offering even greater value for those who use protein powder on a regular basis.

Nutrition Facts, Per Serving

• Calories: 120
• Carbs: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 45mg
• Sugar: 2g

Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate is sourced from grass-fed American cows and delivers 28 grams of protein per 35-gram scoop—one of the highest protein-by-weight ratios in the industry. Unlike whey concentrate, whey isolate undergoes additional processing to remove most of the fat and lactose, making it a low-calorie, high-protein option ideal for muscle-building and weight loss. This also makes it a preferred choice for those who are lactose intolerant, as much of the sugar is eliminated during processing.

Made from naturally fed, hormone-free cows, this protein powder is free from artificial sweeteners, food dyes, and preservatives, ensuring a high-quality ingredient profile. With 14 flavors to choose from, including Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon French Toast, Mocha, and Blueberry Pancakes, there’s a variety of options to suit almost any taste preferences. The powder also mixes smoothly in water or milk, providing a consistently great texture and flavor.

At $60 for a 30-serving tub ($2 per serving), Transparent Labs Whey Isolate is priced slightly higher than some competitors. However, for those prioritizing ingredient quality, purity, and taste, the premium cost may be well worth it.

Nutrition Facts, Per Serving

• Calories: 130
• Carbs: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Sugar: 1g

Kaged Whey Protein Isolate

Kaged Whey Protein Isolate is a quality whey protein that’s free from artificial colors and flavors. It offers an excellent calorie and macronutrient profile, providing 25 grams of protein and just 110 calories per serving. The addition of ProHydrolase digestive enzymes to the formula can also help improve protein absorption and overall digestion, which is particularly beneficial for individuals who experience bloating or digestive discomfort from other protein powders.

However, this product is sweetened with sucralose, which gives the product a sweeter taste and may cause gastric distress for those sensitive to artificial sweeteners. If you can tolerate sucralose, Kaged Whey Protein Isolate offers a good value at $1.50 per serving if you purchase the three-pound tub. This product is also Informed Sport banned substance free, making it a go-to choice for athletes.

At this time, Kaged’s Whey Protein Isolate is only available in three flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, and Chocolate Peanut Butter. I’m a huge fan of the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor; it mixes easily and has a rich chocolate and nutty peanut butter flavor profile.

Nutrition Facts, Per Serving

• Calories: 110
• Carbs: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 125mg
• Sugar: 0g

Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate

Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate is a 100 percent grass-fed whey protein sourced from pasture-raised cows that are free from hormones and antibiotics. Each serving delivers 26 grams of protein, and the powder is cold-processed and microfiltered to preserve essential nutrients while removing excess fats, carbs, and sugars. With just 110 calories and 2 grams of carbs per serving, it's a great low-calorie, high-protein supplement. Additionally, similar to Kaged, this protein includes ProHydrolase digestive enzymes, which are added to enhance protein digestion and absorption.

This protein powder is available in five flavors, including Chocolate Milkshake, Vanilla, Honey Cinnamon Peanut Butter, Strawberry, and Mint Chocolate Chip, all of which are free of artificial ingredients. Unfortunately, this is the only protein powder on our list that I haven’t personally tried myself. That said, the consumer reviews for this protein are extremely positive, with many reviews highlighting the great taste and easy mixability.

Priced at $70 for 30 servings, this protein powder does come with a premium price point. While the quality is undeniable, there are more affordable options that deliver comparable performance at a lower cost.

Nutrition Facts, Per Serving

• Calories: 110
• Carbs: 2g
• Protein: 26g
• Sodium: 65mg
• Sugar: 1g

Jacked Factory Authentic Whey Protein

Authentic Whey by Jacked Factory offers a budget-friendly, high-quality protein powder priced at $35 for 30 servings, making it an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable and effective protein powder supplement. This product contains a blend of whey protein concentrate and whey isolate, providing 24 grams of protein per serving and a complete profile of essential amino acids that support muscle building and recovery. In addition, Jacked Factory’s filtration process ensures that the protein powder is low in fat and contains minimal lactose, making it an ideal choice for those following a weight loss plan or individuals with lactose sensitivities.

Manufactured in the U.S. in a state-of-the-art cGMP- and FDA-registered facility, Authentic Whey meets the highest quality standards, offering consumers peace of mind about both safety and purity.

The only potential drawback of Authentic Whey is its limited flavor selection, offering just Chocolate and Vanilla. However, if you enjoy these classic options, it's hard to go wrong with this cost-effective protein that delivers great taste and quality at an affordable price.

Nutrition Facts, Per Serving

• Calories: 120
• Carbs: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Sugar: 1g

Dymatize Elite 100% Whey Protein Powder

Dymatize Elite 100% is a blend of whey protein concentrate, isolate, and hydrolysate, formulated to support muscle growth and recovery. Each serving contains 25 grams of protein and 5.5 grams of BCAAs, including 2.7 grams of leucine, the key amino acid involved in triggering muscle protein synthesis. In addition, the formula contains 4.4 grams of glutamine, a conditionally essential amino acid that's been shown to support muscle recovery. This combination of nutrients makes it a versatile option for athletes looking to maximize their post-workout recovery.

Available in just three flavors, Chocolate, Vanilla, and Cookies & Cream, the selection is somewhat limited. However, I tried the Cookies & Cream flavor and was impressed by the smooth and creamy texture and easy mixability. When mixed with milk, it tasted like a delicious Cookies & Cream milkshake.

It's worth noting that this protein powder does utilize artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium, which, despite providing a great taste, may not appeal to those looking for a more natural formula.

Nutrition Facts, Per Serving

• Calories: 140
• Carbs: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Sugar: 2g

Gainful Whey Protein

Gainful stands out from other protein powders on our list because it offers a personalized, subscription-based service. After taking a short online questionnaire, your protein powder is tailored to your specific needs, offering anywhere from 19 to 27g of protein per serving and featuring whey, keto, or plant-based protein formulations. What makes this protein powder even more unique is its unflavored base, allowing you to add flavor packets of your choice to keep things interesting. This is perfect for those who get tired of the same flavor day after day. Additionally, Gainful’s whey protein powder is free from gluten, soy, fillers, and artificial additives.

While Gainful isn’t the most budget-friendly option out there, the value lies in the premium ingredients and the customized protein blends that few other brands can match. An added bonus is the access to a registered dietitian with your subscription, which can be especially helpful for those with specific health or weight loss goals. While I haven’t personally used the nutrition consultation, it's a fantastic perk, as personalized guidance from a dietitian is usually not cheap.

Gainful offers nine different flavor packets to choose from, which is significantly more variety than most other brands. I’ve personally tried the Chocolate, Mocha, Chocolate peanut butter, and Sea Salt Caramel flavors, and each one was delicious, enhancing the protein shakes with just the right amount of flavor and sweetness. With high-quality ingredients and a flexible, customized approach, Gainful is a top choice for those who want to tailor their supplement regimen to their exact needs.

Nutrition Facts, Per Serving (Whey/Build Muscle)

• Calories: 110
• Carbs: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Sugar: 1g

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Thorne Whey Protein Isolate

Thorne Whey Protein Isolate is a high-quality protein powder designed to support muscle recovery and overall nutrition. Made with whey protein isolate, it delivers 21 grams of protein per serving with just 4 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of fat, making it a lean option for those focused on muscle growth or weight management. This protein powder is also free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and unnecessary additives, which sets it apart from many other protein powders on the market.

For this review, I tried Chocolate; it has a rich, natural cocoa taste. Unlike some protein powders that can be overly sweet or have an artificial aftertaste, Thorne keeps it clean with a balanced flavor that isn’t overpowering. It mixed easily in both water and milk, creating a creamy, easy-to-drink shake without any chalky texture.

At $65 for 30 servings, it’s definitely on the pricier side compared to other whey protein isolates. However, if you’re looking for an all-natural protein powder from a reputable brand that’s also NSF Certified safe for sport, then Thorne Whey Protein Isolate is a solid investment.

Nutrition Facts, Per Serving 

• Calories: 100
• Carbs: 4g
• Protein: 21g
• Sodium: 105mg
• Sugar: 2g

Legion Whey+ Protein Powder

Legion has built a strong reputation in the fitness industry by prioritizing honesty, science, and transparency. With a mission to help individuals "become better," the brand appeals to health-conscious consumers who value ingredient purity and ethical sourcing. One of its standout products, Legion Whey+ is a 100 percent Truly Grass Fed™ whey isolate, making it higher in protein and lower in calories than whey concentrate options.

This protein powder mixes smoothly with both water and milk, delivering a pleasant, non-chalky texture. Cinnamon Cereal and Chocolate Peanut Butter flavors are my personal favorites, offering a well-balanced taste without being overly sweet. Unlike many competitors, Legion Whey+ is naturally sweetened with stevia rather than artificial sweeteners like sucralose, which contributes to its subtle sweetness—something I definitely enjoy.

At $65 for a two-pound bag ($2.17 per serving), Legion Whey+ is pricier than other protein powder options, which typically average around $1 per serving. However, the extra cost may be justified for those who prioritize third-party testing, high-quality ingredients, and ethical sourcing. If you’re looking for a clean, great-tasting protein powder that aligns with a natural, science-backed approach to supplementation, Legion Whey+ is worth considering.

Nutrition Facts, Per Serving

• Calories: 100
• Carbs: 4g
• Protein: 22g
• Sodium: 115mg
• Sugar: 1g

GHOST Whey Protein

Taste is one of the most important factors when choosing a protein powder. No matter how great the macronutrient profile or ingredient quality is, if it doesn’t taste good, you simply won’t drink it. How many times have you seen a tub of protein powder sitting untouched in someone’s pantry? This is why I appreciate GHOST’s approach, collaborating with brands like Oreo, Nutter Butter, Cinnabon, and Chips Ahoy, to create flavors that make whey protein more enjoyable and approachable for everyone. Beyond these fun partnerships, GHOST also offers six original flavors, giving them more variety than most competitors and solidifying their reputation as one of the most delicious protein powders available.

All of the GHOST original flavors I tested, including Milk Chocolate, Coffee Ice Cream, and Fruity Cereal Milk, tasted great and mixed smoothly in a traditional shaker bottle with zero clumping. However, for the GHOST Whey X collaborations, I wasn’t a fan of the cookie pieces inside the protein powder when mixed in a shaker. However, after reading a number of customer reviews, it’s clear many consumers really enjoy that classic cookie crunch. Personally, I found that blending the Oreo and Chips Ahoy flavors created a smoother shake that I enjoyed more. GHOST Whey’s calorie and macronutrient profile does vary by flavor, with each serving delivering 25 to 26 grams of protein and 120 to 160 calories.

Nutrition Facts, Per Serving

• Calories: 130
• Carbs: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Sugar: 2g

Levels Grass-Fed Whey Protein

Levels Grass-Fed Whey Protein checks all the boxes for a high-quality protein powder. Formulated with minimal, all-natural ingredients, it’s sourced from hormone-free, pasture-raised cows and delivers 24 grams of protein per serving. This makes it a reliable option for those who prioritize quality and simplicity in their supplements.

I tried Chocolate Mocha, made with a blend of cocoa and decaffeinated coffee powder, and appreciated the subtly sweet chocolate and rich coffee flavor profile. Since it’s sweetened with monk fruit and stevia instead of artificial sweeteners, it has a more natural sweetness that isn’t overpowering. The powder mixed great with almond milk, creating a smooth shake without any noticeable grittiness or clumping.

At around $1.50 per serving, Levels is one of the more affordable grass-fed whey protein powders on the market, offering great value for the quality it provides.

Nutrition Facts, Per Serving

• Calories: 130
• Carbs: 4g
• Protein: 24g
• Sodium: 140mg
• Sugar: 2g

What Is Protein Powder?

Protein powder is a dietary supplement that helps individuals meet their daily protein needs. While options like casein, soy, and plant-based are available, whey protein is typically the most popular due to its pleasant taste, easy mixability, rapid digestion, and complete amino acid profile.

What to Look for in Whey Protein Powder

When searching for a whey protein powder, I suggest you start by looking at the calorie and macronutrient profile of the product to ensure it aligns with your dietary needs and goals.

Whey protein powder is available in three forms: concentrate, isolate, and hydrolysate. Whey protein concentrate undergoes minimal processing, preserving more nutrients and resulting in a higher-calorie protein powder with slightly more carbohydrates and fats. This makes it a great choice for athletes and bodybuilders prioritizing muscle repair and recovery without worrying about a few extra calories.

On the other hand, if weight loss or muscle maintenance is your goal, a whey protein isolate may be the better option. Whey protein isolates are refined to remove the excess carbohydrates and fats that come from milk, meaning nearly all the calories in the supplement come from protein alone.

Finally, for individuals who train or compete multiple times per day and want to optimize their recovery, whey protein hydrolysate offers the fastest absorption. Hydrolysate is pre-digested using enzymes, allowing for quicker delivery of amino acids to the muscles. While the difference in absorption rates between these protein powders is subtle, a hydrolysate could provide a small edge for elite competitors.

From there, I recommend evaluating the ingredient quality to determine what’s important to you as the consumer. Some things to consider include whether the protein comes from grass-fed cows, if the supplement is third-party tested, and if it contains any artificial additives like colors, flavors, or sweeteners.

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Protein Powder FAQs

When Is the Best Time to Drink Protein?

The best time to drink your protein powder supplement should depend on your individual goals and lifestyle. For example, you may prefer a morning protein shake as a convenient, high-protein breakfast option, while others may use it post-workout to aid muscle growth and recovery. Ultimately, meeting your total daily protein needs is what matters most, so don’t stress too much about the exact timing of your whey protein shake.

Is It Ok to Take Protein Every Day?

Yes, it's perfectly fine to use whey protein on a daily basis. Just remember that it should complement a well-balanced diet rather than replace whole, nutrient-dense foods. As long as you're getting the majority of your protein from whole foods, incorporating whey protein is a convenient and effective way to support muscle growth, recovery, and overall nutrition.