Best Protein Powder: Complete Guide

Wrapping up our protein powder rundown, we’ve got the Premier Protein Powder. This one is a powerhouse with 30 grams of protein per serving and only 1 gram of sugar, making it a perfect pick for anyone following a keto diet or just trying to cut down on sugar. The vanilla milkshake flavor really hits the mark—it’s creamy and rich, without any strange aftertaste, which can be a dealbreaker with some protein powders.

Although this powder mixes pretty well, keep in mind that you’ll need two scoops per serving. That’s quite a bit, and if you’re just using a shaker, you might find it a bit of a workout to get it smooth. I’ve found that blending it up is the best bet to get that thick, milkshake-like consistency that makes it so enjoyable.

The Paradise Naturals Beef Bone Broth Protein Powder offers a premium, all-natural approach to wellness. Made with care in the USA, this slow-simmered bone broth is free from additives, fillers, or artificial ingredients, providing a pure and natural supplement for your health journey. Every scoop is packed with essential proteins, collagen, and amino acids that are vital for skin, gut, and joint health.

What sets this bone broth protein powder apart is the addition of gut-friendly probiotics, making it the first of its kind to support digestion and boost gut health holistically. It dissolves smoothly and instantly, so it’s easy to add into your favorite beverages or recipes without any clumping. Whether you’re looking to support your body’s natural healing processes, curb cravings, or add a nutrient-rich boost to your day, Paradise Naturals provides a versatile, wholesome solution tailored to your wellness.

While I’m a huge fan of adventurous flavors like cookies & cream, many people prefer a more natural, versatile flavor that complements various foods. This is where the Nutricost whey isolate shines. Flavor is a major consideration for whey consumers, and this one has a subtle taste that doesn’t linger. In smoothies and shakes, you’ll definitely taste the other ingredients more than the protein powder, a big plus for those with the whey protein ‘ick’.

Moving on to the formula, I love that it is a whey isolate powder, which is generally easier on the stomach than regular whey. So, if you experience digestive issues or bloating, this could be a better option for you.

Nutricost’s commitment to quality is commendable. They’re one of the few supplement brands you can trust to use clean ingredients. This grass-fed whey isolate has only natural flavors, stevia, and Himalayan salt as additional ingredients. However, it’s worth noting that it’s priced higher per pound than Muscletech—a small price to pay for the superior quality!

Let’s talk about the KOS Organic Vegan Protein Powder. It’s all organic and vegan, which is excellent for those sticking to a plant-based or dairy-free diet. The salted caramel coffee flavor is a fun change from the usual protein shake flavors. It’s especially appealing because it contains 50mg of caffeine per serving, about half a cup of coffee, giving you a bit of an energy boost in the morning. The flavor balance is pretty good; the caramel is noticeable but doesn’t overpower the subtle coffee background.

When it comes to texture, you might need to shake this one up with a bit more water than usual or give your blender a bit more time to do its magic. The powder is fine, but getting it perfectly smooth takes a little effort since the recommended serving is two scoops, which is a lot more powder compared to serving sizes from other brands.

Nutrition-wise, you’re getting 20 grams of protein per serving from a pea protein blend, which is solid for muscle maintenance and overall health. It’s also packed with vitamins and minerals, and loaded with other plant-based superfoods, making it more than just a protein supplement.

If you’re scouting for a shake that doubles as a quick breakfast or a handy snack, this one’s designed to fit into a keto, vegan, or low-carb lifestyle quite smoothly. The chocolate flavor here is mild and not overwhelmingly sweet, which is perfect if you’re not into super sugary protein shakes. It strikes a nice balance, offering just enough sweetness to make it enjoyable without veering into dessert territory.

Let’s talk about the price tag. It is on the higher side compared to some of the other options out there. Whether the premium is worth it might depend on how much you value organic, clean ingredients and the specific dietary compliance this shake offers.

As for the packaging, the resealable pouches are meant to offer convenience, but they might fall short of expectations. I’ve found that the sealing mechanism can weaken over time, which isn’t ideal if you’re not going through the powder quickly. This is more of a nuisance than a dealbreaker, but it’s something to consider if you’re the type to split a bag over many months.

For those who lean towards the simpler things, the vanilla protein powder by Orgain is a classic choice that’s hard to beat. First off, the taste: Orgain keeps it straightforward with a vanilla flavor that’s subtle and not overly sweet, thanks to having no added sugar. It won’t overpower the other ingredients in your smoothie or shake, making it an excellent base for whatever you choose to mix in.

From a nutritional standpoint, Orgain brings a lot to the table. Each serving packs 21 grams of plant-based protein, which is impressive for keeping you fueled and satisfied. It’s also fortified with chia seeds, which are not just there for texture; they’re a good source of ALA omega-3 fatty acids. Plus, it’s an excellent source of iron, providing about 35% of your daily needs in one go.

However, there’s a catch with the iron—it’s plant-based, which means it’s not as readily absorbed by your body compared to iron from animal products. To get the most out of this nutrient, pair the protein powder with a vitamin C source, like freshly squeezed orange juice, to enhance iron absorption.

Nutricost’s formula is centered around Micellar Casein, which is a high-quality, milk-derived protein known for its slow absorption rate. This means it gradually releases amino acids into your bloodstream, making it ideal for consumption before bed to help with muscle recovery while you sleep.

One of the standout features of this protein powder is its mixability. Thanks to being instantized with Sunflower Lecithin, it blends into liquids more smoothly than many other casein powders, which often get a bad rap for being clumpy. Price-wise, Nutricost Casein Protein offers good value. It’s not the absolute cheapest on the market, but it’s priced competitively, especially considering the quality and effectiveness of the product.

However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. The sodium content is 190mg per serving, which isn’t outrageous, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re monitoring your salt intake. On the flip side, you get a healthy dose of 580mg of calcium per serving, which is great for maintaining strong bones.

This protein powder is a blend sourced from premium isolates of egg, milk, and beef, which makes it stand out in a crowded market of mainly whey and plant-based options. Unlike whey isolate alone, which is rapidly digested and can spike insulin levels, the combination of egg, milk, and beef proteins provides a more balanced release of amino acids. This means you get sustained muscle support, ideal for post-workout recovery or as a meal supplement.

Flavor-wise, the Banana Milkshake might not be for everyone. I’ll keep my personal bias in check here, but it’s described as mirroring the taste of banana pudding. If that’s a flavor you enjoy, you might find this protein shake to be delightful, almost like a dessert. It’s definitely on the sweeter side, appealing to those who like their protein shakes to double as a treat!

Some users report issues with clumpiness when not thoroughly mixed. When it comes to preparing the shake, while it’s possible to use a shaker, you might find that a blender does a better job. Another thing I didn’t like about this was the sodium content. The 340mg per serving is definitely something to be mindful of if you’re on a low-sodium diet.

The organic vegan protein powder from Garden of Life stands out as one of the cleanest plant-based options available. It has 22 grams of complete plant-based protein per serving, derived from sprouted grains, which are known for their nutritional benefits. The inclusion of BCAAs is a major plus, supporting muscle recovery and growth. But what really sets this protein apart is its mixibility. Unlike many plant proteins that might require a blender to smooth out lumps, this one blends effortlessly with just water or almond milk.

For those with sensitive stomachs, this protein powder is likely a godsend. It’s free from dairy, lactose, gluten, and, notably, erythritol—a sugar alcohol that can cause digestive issues for some. Instead, it includes probiotics and digestive enzymes that not only prevent stomach upset but also offer additional gut health benefits, enhancing overall digestion and nutrient absorption.

However, it’s worth noting the natural flavor profile of sprouted grains can be a bit strong, particularly with milder flavors like vanilla. It carries a distinct ‘sprouty’ taste that might not be to everyone’s liking. If you’re not a fan of that earthy undertone, you might want to try the chocolate flavor, which does a better job at masking it.

Ancient Nutrition’s protein powder stands out for its unique source of protein—bone broth—which is known for its health benefits beyond just muscle building. This powder packs 20 grams of protein per serving, derived from hydrolyzed collagen peptides that are not only good for your muscles but also beneficial for your skin and nails.

Flavor-wise, the chocolate is quite enjoyable and can make consuming this type of protein a pleasant experience, especially if you’re already a fan of chocolate drinks. It’s sweet enough to be appealing while still maintaining a balance that doesn’t overwhelm the palate.

However, there’s a slight catch when it comes to mixability. Due to the nature of bone broth protein, you might find that it doesn’t mix as smoothly in cold drinks compared to other powders. Users have noted that it blends better in hot beverages, where it tends to dissolve more thoroughly. If cold shakes are more your style, using a blender rather than a shaker can help avoid any clumpiness.