Best protein powders 2024 for muscle building, weight loss and more

The best protein powders to help build muscle, use as a dietary supplement or aid weight loss, including vegan options

Best protein powder: Sportsman drinking protein in shaker bottle outdoors
(Image credit: Getty Images)

The best protein powders aren’t just for people who go to the gym anymore, all of us can benefit from including them in our diet, no matter our age, body type or gender. Protein is made up of amino acids and it’s what our body uses to help build and repair muscle, bones and cells. It can also aid weight loss, as it can keep us feeling fuller for longer.

To keep our body healthy, the British Nutrition Foundation recommends 0.75g of protein per kg bodyweight per day for the average adult. If you don’t eat a lot of animal-based products, are vegan or vegetarian, then a protein powder (or protein bar) will be useful in helping you hit this target. However, if your goal is to build muscle, then you will need to make sure (at the very minimum) that you’re hitting this. Alternatively, you may benefit more from a mass gainer, which is packed with far more calories. 

Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best protein powders on the market that we’ve tried and tested, including whey protein, beef protein, clear whey, low-calorie protein, vegan – the list goes on – so you can be confident that you’re choosing the right product for you. Plus, at the bottom of this article you’ll find answers to your all-important protein-related questions. 

Best protein powders to buy right now

Why you can trust T3 Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Best whey protein

Bulk Pure Whey Isolate on white background


(Image credit: bulk)

1. Bulk Pure Whey Isolate

Best whey protein powder overall

Specifications

Type: Whey
Protein (per serving): 26g
Sugars (per serving): >1g
Fat (per serving): >1g
Calories (per serving): 108 kcal

Reasons to buy

+
Very high protein content
+
Low fat

Reasons to avoid

-
Two flavours only

Each 30-gram serving of the Bulk Pure Whey Isolate delivers 26 grams of protein and only minuscule amounts of sugar and fat, making it the No.1 choice for people who tend to plan their meals meticulously. According to Bulk, Pure Whey Isolate uses "premium whey protein isolate sourced from European, grass-fed dairy cows", so one would hope it's decent The milk and protein powder are also said to be free from hormones and antibiotics.

The product is sweetened with Sucralose instead of Stevia, so if you're opposed to the latter's taste, you can rest assured the Pure Whey Isolate doesn't have any funny aftertaste. At least not more than your average protein powder. Alternatively, you can give Bulk's Informed Whey Protein a try. Apparently, it's the "very best whey protein shake from Bulk, created for elite athletes" and comes in different flavours than the Pure Whey Isolate, too.

The added benefit of the Informed Whey is that it's tested for banned substances, making it ideal for pro athletes. And not just lifters but cyclists, runners and so on. Better still, it comes in some of the best flavours I've seen in a while, including Salted Caramel & Walnut and Chocolate Hazelnut Biscuit.

Organic Protein Company Whey Protein on white backgroundT3 Award

(Image credit: The Organic Protein Company)

2. Organic Protein Company Whey Protein

Best protein powder for weight loss

Specifications

Type: Whey
Protein (per serving): 18.8 grams
Sugar (per serving): 2 grams
Fat (per serving): 1.3 grams
Calories (per serving): 98

Reasons to buy

+
Organic goodness
+
High in protein

Reasons to avoid

-
Froths up quite a lot

The Organic Protein Company Whey Protein is a good example of why organic supplements have more benefits than just being healthier than their regular counterparts. Sure, the protein used in the Organic Protein Company Whey Protein is derived from grass-fed cows and contains no additives. Still, it also delivers on texture, micronutrients and – most importantly – protein content.

Each 25-gram serving of the Organic Protein Company Whey Protein contains just under 20 grams of protein and only 2/1.3 grams of sugar and fat, respectively. This powder also mixes well and can be used with either milk or water, or you can go crazy and use it with porridge or even savoury stuff (the unflavoured variety is best for this purpose). We particularly enjoyed the strawberry, elderberry and beetroot flavour. The new flavour is hopefully the first of many upcoming exciting varieties to accompany the more traditional vanilla and chocolate varieties.

The Organic Protein Company Whey Protein contains all the essential and branched-chain amino acids you need for muscle building and repair, and it is also hormone-free, gluten-free, soy-free and GMO-free. The downside? It costs twice as much as your run-of-the-mill whey protein. A 400-gram bag costing £22 is definitely not cheap, but in return, you can rest assured you don't pump your body full of chemicals, preservatives and unnatural additives.

USN Blue Lab 100% Whey on white backgroundT3 Award


3. USN Blue Lab 100% Whey

Best protein powder for muscle gain

Specifications

Type: Whey
Protein (per serving): 26g
Sugars (per serving): 1.6g
Fat (per serving): 1.9g
Calories (per serving): 126

Reasons to buy

+
Great taste
+
Mixes well
+
Packed with amino acids

Reasons to avoid

-
Not suitable for vegans
-
Expensive 

The caramel chocolate flavour that we tested here is one of the most convincing flavours where whey protein is concerned. It lacks that nasty chemical taste that other cheaper rivals seem to possess and blends extremely well with water. It's specifically engineered for some of the most demanding athletes on the planet, meaning it contains quality ingredients and shuns much of the chemical bulk found in rival powders.

An impressive 26 grams of protein in a single scoop should be enough to suit most needs, but we found ourselves opting for a second portion to thicken up the drink a little and add some punch to the flavour. Easy to guzzle, packed with important amino acids and incredibly low in fat and sugar content, the USN Blue Lab 100% Whey is well worth a try.

Best protein powder: best protein for weight gain Optimum Nutrition Mass GainerT3 Award


(Image credit: Optimum Nutrition)

4. ON Serious Mass

Best protein powder for weight gain

Specifications

Type: Whey
Protein (per serving): 50g
Sugars (per serving): 26g
Fat (per serving): 5.5g
Calories (per serving): 1263

Reasons to buy

+
Thin and easy to drink
+
Very tasty with good flavour options
+
Very decent calorie and protein serving
+
Delivers results
+
Doesn't upset stomach

Reasons to avoid

-
High in sugar

When you’re looking to pack on extra weight consuming extra calories isn’t easy, but that’s where Optimum Nutrition’s serious mass comes in. Just to note, this is a mass gainer, not your regular protein shake, so it does pack in the calories. Each serving contains a whopping 1250 calories, 55 grams of protein, and 250 grams of carbs, to help increase your body weight and muscle stores. There’s also 3 gramsof creatine included to help support your training and muscle growth, if that’s your aim.

Our tester, who’s a powerlifter and can squat over 300kg at 83kg body weight, told us this was the only mass gainer that helped him gain weight when he started out training. Unlike other mass gainers, that often feel like drinking a super thick milkshake, he told us this one was just like drinking your regular protein shake. He said the chocolate flavour was very tasty, mixed perfectly with water, and left his stomach feeling fine afterwards too.

ON Gold Standard 100% Whey on white backgroundT3 Award


6. ON Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein

Best tasting protein powder

Specifications

Type: Whey
Protein (per serving): 24g
Sugars (per serving): 0.7
Fat (per serving): 1.5
Calories (per serving): 116

Reasons to buy

+
Widely used by pro athletes
+
Packed with amino acids
+
Good quality protein

Reasons to avoid

-
Some flavours are a little on the sweet side

Optimum Nutrition claims their Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein is the world’s “No1 best-selling whey protein powder” and we agree that it’s up there, especially when it comes to flavour. We tried the Double Rich Chocolate, French Vanilla, and Delicious Strawberry, and they tasted pretty much identical to a Nesquik milkshake. Albeit, the latter two are particularly sweet, however, there are 14 flavours to choose from. It mixes incredibly well with water (and porridge) and is probably one of the smoothest protein powders to drink that we’ve tested.

With 24 grams of protein and 5.5 grams of BCAAs, it delivers a hefty dose of muscle-building nutrients with each 30 gram scoop. They’ve also thrown in 4 grams of glutamine and glutamine acid to help with digestion. It’s also made of a blend of whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, and hydrolysed whey protein isolate, so it’s cheaper than buying whey isolate but doesn’t compromise on quality.

Best protein powder: best clear whey protein MyProtein Clear Whey VimtoT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: MyProtein)

7. MyProtein Clear Whey Protein Powder

Best clear whey protein powder

Specifications

Type: Clear whey isolate
Protein (per serving): 20g
Sugars (per serving): 0.6g
Fat (per serving): 0
Calories (per serving): 89

Clear whey is a great alternative if you don’t enjoy the milky texture of a traditional protein. The Vimto flavour from my MyProtein is pretty beaut, it's light and refreshing, and tastes exactly like the squash when mixed with cold water. However, if you don’t like Vimto, MyProtein also has 18 different fruity flavours for you to choose from, so you’re bound to find something that you like.

Our only gripe is that it does froth up quite a lot and can lead to a mini explosion and mess if not opened up in the appropriate setting. MyProtein also recognises this and advises waiting 15 seconds after shaking to let the foam settle. Each scoop contains 20 grams of protein, so a less than traditional protein shakes, however, this is common with clear whey. It also contains no fat, 0.6 grams of sugar, and is only 89 calories, also making it a good choice to aid weight loss journeys.

Best protein powder: best dairy-free protein Bulk Beef IsolateT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Bulk Powders)

8. Bulk Beef Protein Isolate 97

Best dairy-free protein powder

Specifications

Type: Hydrolysed beef protein isolate
Protein (per serving): 29g
Sugars (per serving): 0g
Fat (per serving): 0.5g
Calories (per serving): 120

Reasons to buy

+
Very high protein content
+
Mixes well with water, variety of drinks and foods
+
Low in fat and sugar
+
Tastes good (apart from unflavored option)

Reasons to avoid

-
Not the widest flavour range

If you can’t consume dairy, then Bulk’s beef protein isolate is a good go-to, with each scoop serving providing you with a very decent 29 grams of protein. It’s made from HydroBEEF, sourced from fresh European beef that’s been hydrolyzed to make it even easier for your body to absorb and utilise. 

Is it going to taste like you’re chomping on a bit of steak? No. We consumed the chocolate flavour for well over a year whilst going through a dairy-free phase; it does have a strong chocolatey flavour and an ever-so-slightly beef tinge to it. Despite this, it’s 100% drinkable with water, mixed into your hot drinks or porridge (although we experienced a few small clumps now and again). It has an extremely low-fat content of 0.5 grams and contains no sugars. According to Bulk it's also Halal.

Dioxyme Grass-fed Ultra Whey Protein on white backgroundT3 Award

(Image credit: Dioxyme)

9. Dioxyme Grass-fed Ultra Whey Protein

Best premium protein powder

Specifications

Type: Whey
Protein (per serving): 27g
Sugars (per serving): 3g
Fat/serving (per serving): 0.7g
Calories (per serving): 135 kcal

Reasons to buy

+
Choke-full of BCAAs and EAAs
+
Intense flavour
+
Mixes well
+
High protein content
+
Keto, paleo and eco friendly

Reasons to avoid

-
Definitely not the cheapest

Every detail of Dioxyme products seems to be engineered to perfection: the ingredients, the nutritional profile, and the taste all working together in perfect harmony. A good example of this tinkering is the Dioxyme Grass-fed Ultra Whey Protein. It is full of the best quality ingredients you might want to include in your dream protein powder, not to mention it tastes great! Even if only mixed with water, the Dioxyme Grass-fed Ultra Whey Protein has a phenomenal, rich taste that satisfies the taste buds with every gulp.

The Dioxyme Grass-fed Ultra Whey Protein combines whey isolate 93 and whey concentrate 80: these take up 80% of the mix. The sweetener is organic stevia, but even the rest of the ingredients are either non-GMO or organic. No nasties here. Each 38-gram serving contains 27 grams of protein, 3 grams of sugar and less than 1 gram of fat. The amino acid profile is also impressive: no less than 18 different amino acids are crammed into this product. All protein is sourced from grass-fed cows, and the product itself is paleo-, keto- and eco-friendly too, or so does Dioxyme claim.

A slight criticism – and the only one we can offer – is that although Dioxyme ships to the UK, you will need to pay customs tax which will be added to your total. Considering that the product is not cheap as it is, this might put some people off. If you are in the US, I strongly recommend upgrading your protein game and switching to Dioxyme going forward.

Best protein powder: UPBEAT Drinks, best protein alternativeT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: UPBEAT Drinks)

10. UPBEAT Hydration Water

Best protein powder alternative

Specifications

Type: Clear whey isolate
Protein (per serving): 10-15g
Sugars (per serving): 0g
Fat (per serving): 0g
Calories (per serving): 54-90

Reasons to buy

+
Delicious refreshing, fruity taste
+
Easy to have on the go
+
Low calories
+
Packed with BCAAs and vitamin B complex

Reasons to avoid

-
Small protein content
-
Very slight milky aftertaste

Don’t want a protein powder, but are looking for additional ways to pack some protein into your diet that don’t include yamming a ton of protein bars? UPBEAT’s Protein Hydration Water is a great alternative. Each 500ml drink is packed with at least 10 grams “of the purest form of whey protein, filtered to remove fat, sugar and lactose to leave a fine protein which is light, clear, and refreshing”. 

We tried three of the fruity flavours – mixed berry, zesty orange and tropical – all of which we thought tasted utterly delightful. They do have a slight milky whey aftertaste, but this didn’t make the drink any less enjoyable for us. The mixed berry and zesty orange (our favourites) also contain energising vitamin B complex, to reduce fatigue and support the immune system, as well as 3000mg of BCAAs. 

The tropical flavour is best if you need a little ‘pick me up’, as it combines protein shakes, energy drinks, and vitamins all in one. It contains 15 grams of whey protein isolate, energising B vitamins, 1800mg of caffeine, and BCAA. Each drink is also 90 calories or less and lactose-free and gluten free.

Best vegan protein powders

Huel Complete Protein on white backgroundT3 Best Buy Award badge

(Image credit: Huel)

1. Huel Complete Protein

Best vegan protein powder overall

Specifications

Type: Blend of hemp, faba & pea
Protein (per serving): 20 grams
Carbs (per serving): 3 grams
Fat (per serving): 1.4 grams
Calories (per serving): 105

Reasons to buy

+
Tastes great
+
Jam-packed with EAAs and BCAAs
+
High protein content

Reasons to avoid

-
Not quite as smooth as whey protein

The Huel Complete Protein is a bit different from the rest of the vegan protein lot. For one, its macro-and micronutrient stats are on point, and it contains 20 grams of protein, 9 grams of EAAs and 5 grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) per a 105-calorie serving. It also tastes rather pleasant for a protein powder that's not whey.

Sure, it’s a bit sludgy and has a slight vegan twang to it, but overall, it’s pretty enjoyable to drink. Just a note, especially for people like me who like to mix their protein powder with only a small amount of water: you might want to add a bit more water to the Huel Complete Protein so it doesn't get too congealed to a level when it wouldn't come out of the shaker. Adding over 200 ml of water should do the trick but feel free to experiment to find the best protein shake consistency for you. Or go crazy like me and mix it with Greek yoghurt to recreate The Mountain's dinner. Your call.

In addition to all that, the Complete Protein is a “nutritionally complete” plant-based protein powder, meaning it contains all 26 essential vitamins and minerals and is a source of fibre, carbs, and fats. This powder truly is the protein powder version of 'standard' Huel, a leaner, less calorific option for those who don't necessarily want to replace a meal with Huel but would still like to enjoy the benefits of it. For those of you who are planning on packing on weight, we recommend the Huel Black Edition.

Protein Works Vegan Wondershake on white backgroundT3 Approved badge


(Image credit: The Protein Works)

2. The Protein Works Vegan Wondershake

Best protein powder for bulking

Specifications

Type: Blend of pea, rice, pumpkin & soy
Protein (per-serving): 21 grams
Carbs (per serving): 1.3 grams
Fat (per serving): 0.7 grams
Calories (per serving): 89

Reasons to buy

+
Virtually no sugar content
+
Lean
+
Lots of exciting flavours

Reasons to avoid

-
Texture could be even smoother

Given the higher calorie content of The Protein Works' Vegan Wondershake, this protein powder could be featured on T3's best weight gainer guide, too, but we felt it's best to leave it on this list instead. 

The Vegan Wondershake has it all that made Vegan Protein Extreme great: it's high in protein (85%), low on sugar, virtually fat-free and above all, has an acceptable taste. Not just acceptable: it actually tastes good, especially in comparison to some other popular vegan meal replacement products. 

It is not recommended for weight loss, though, due to the high-calorie content but if you are exercising more vigorously, definitely give the Vegan Wondershake a try.

Check our The Protein Works discount codes before you buy.  

Form Performance Protein on white backgroundT3 Award


3. Form Performance Protein

Best protein powder for high protein content

Specifications

Type: Blend of organic pea, hemp, rice and AlgaVia
Protein (per serving): 30 grams
Sugars (per serving): 0.1 grams
Fat (per serving): 2.9 grams
Calories (per serving): 96

Reasons to buy

+
Amazing taste and texture
+
Plant-based protein 
+
Added probiotics 

Reasons to avoid

-
Comparatively high fat content

We found the chocolate peanut offering from Form genuinely enjoyable to drink, boasting a texture and flavour that isn't far off a proper milkshake. It's also completely vegan-friendly, gluten-free and is derived 100 per cent from plant-based products, meaning there is a pleasing lack of chemicals on the ingredients list.

A single serving packs a whopping 30 grams of protein (which is extremely decent) from a diverse blend of brown rice, Algavia and hemp. Each serving also contains a complete amino acid profile and additional probiotics to help boost the immune system of anyone working hard in the gym or out on the field.

Blend it with water, and it's enjoyable. Mix it with almond milk or another dairy-free alternative, throw in a banana, and you have a genuinely tasty treat that's delivering a hefty dose of protein with every gulp. 

Best protein powder: best plant protein for weight loss PhD Smart Plant ProteinT3 Award


(Image credit: PhD Nutrition)

4. PHD Smart Plant Protein

Best vegan protein powder for weight loss

Specifications

Type: Pea & soya
Protein (per serving): 20g
Sugars (per serving): 0g
Fat (per serving): 0.9g
Calories (per serving): 96

Reasons to buy

+
Low calories, sugar and fat content
+
Strawberry flavour not too sickly, quite natural
+
Also suitable for baking

Reasons to avoid

-
Not the biggest flavour range
-
Slightly grainy aftertaste

The PhD Nutrition Smart Plant Protein gets its protein content from two sources – pea and soya – and it has approval from the Vegetarian Society. It's low on carbs, with only 1.8 grams per serving, contains no sugar and each serving is less than 100 calories. It's therefore a good option if you're trying to keep your calorie intake to a minimum. 

There's three different flavours: chocolate cookie, salted caramel and strawberry. We tried the latter, which we thought mixed really well with water. Although the strawberry flavour isn't too sweet it did have a slightly grainy aftertaste. PhD Nutrition also states on its site that it's also great for baking with and including in pancakes, cookies, or mousses. We'll admit, we haven't got round to whipping up any delights with it yet, but it's a plus in our eyes.

Vega Clean Protein on white backgroundT3 Award


5. Vega Clean Protein

Best 'clean' vegan protein powder

Specifications

Type: Blend of pea, hemp, alfalfa and pumpkin
Protein (per serving): 25g
Sugars (per serving): 0.2g
Fat (per serving): 2.3g
Calories (per serving): 139

Reasons to buy

+
Low in sugar
+
Natural ingredients
+
Easy to digest

Reasons to avoid

-
Weak taste

Made from pea, hemp, alfalfa and pumpkin, the Vega Clean Protein really does live up to its name, while a distinct lack of sugar and fat makes it one of the healthiest choices to go for. Unfortunately, there is a hefty compromise on texture and taste, with the chocolate flavour tested here not really doing much for these tastebuds.

It requires a more vigorous mix than some of the other powders featured on this list, but we did find it one of the easiest on the stomach, perhaps thanks to an additional digestive enzyme derived from pineapple.

FAQs

What is the best protein powder?

Navigating the minefield of protein powder terminology can be a nightmare, as there are various types that all work differently. “When it comes to selecting the best protein powder it ultimately depends on individual needs, dietary preferences, and lifestyle,” says Dr. Mark Evans, Optimum Nutrition, Performance Nutritionist. “The best protein powder is one that you enjoy, fits into your daily schedule and one you look forward to ensuring consistent intake.” Check out our list below of the different types of protein powders, to help you choose the one that’s best for you. 

What are the different types of protein powders?

Whey Protein Powder is the most common form of protein powder that comes from milk during the cheese-making process. “It’s a high-quality protein source, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids required for building muscle and it has a rapid absorption rate, making it a great choice around training sessions,” says Dr. Evans.

Casein Protein Powder also comes from milk, but it has a slower digestion rate than whey protein, which means it supplies amino acids to the body over a more prolonged period. “This makes it an excellent protein source between meals, during extended periods of fasting, or before bed,” explains Dr. Evans. 

Plant protein powders are vegan-friendly and are derived from plants like brown rice, peas, wheat, soybeans, and more. “While some plant protein sources may lack specific essential amino acids individually, combining different plant proteins such as pea and rice proteins can create a complete high-quality protein that effectively supports muscle growth,” says Dr. Evans.

Clear protein powders have become increasingly popular for those looking for a light, juice-like alternative to traditional ‘creamy’ protein shakes. “These powders are available as a whey or plant-based alternatives, so make sure to check the label based on your own dietary needs,” explains Dr. Evans. “They’re an ideal choice for people with digestive sensitives to traditional protein powders, for hydration support, and those looking to increase their daily protein intake.” 

What is the best protein powder for weight loss?

Sadly, there is no one best protein powder specifically for weight loss. Weight loss is complex and, before undergoing any sort of weight loss journey, Dr. Evans advises consulting with a nutritionist, dietician, or healthcare professional. To lose weight you need to consume less calories than your body burns, known as a calorie deficit, therefore choosing a protein with low calories can support this. 

“One of the other goals during a weight loss period is to lose body fat and to maintain muscle mass,” says Dr. Evans. “Protein powders can help you hit your daily protein requirements and give your muscles the support they need while you’re losing weight. Find the protein powder that you enjoy and that fits your dietary requirements to keep you on track.”

What is the best protein powder for muscle growth?

“Whey protein has a rapid absorption rate, contains all the essential amino acids to support muscle growth, and is available in a range of different flavours,” explains Dr. Evans. “Using whey protein around your training sessions is the perfect way to support your muscle-building efforts.” To build muscle you also need to be eating in a calorie surplus, therefore look for a protein powder with slightly higher calories (or even a mass gainer if you’re looking to do a big bulk). Choosing a protein powder that also includes the supplement creatine can help raise your muscle gains. 

How much protein do you need a day?

How much is enough protein is a constant source of debate among professionals, but the consensus at the moment states that you'll need to take anything between 1.6-2.2 grams of protein per body kilogram per day if you do rigorous training. 

The British Heart Foundation says, "Most adults need around 0.75g of protein per kilo of body weight per day (for the average woman, this is 45g or 55g for men)." This is for people who don't exercise regularly, only 'exist'.

Once you start exercising, you will need to up your protein intake, depending on how vigorous said exercising is, all the way to 1.6-2.2 grams per body kilo per day mentioned above. If you follow a rigorous bodybuilding regime, as well as taking enough protein, you should also make sure you include an ample amount of healthy carbs in your diet.

That said, most active adults should be able to get away with taking 1.2-1.5 grams of protein per body kilogram per day.

Is protein powder bad for you?

Whey protein is not bad for anyone, as long as it is used correctly. Protein powders have a high 'bioavailability', meaning your body can quickly absorb the protein found in the powder. Having protein powder as the only source of protein is a bad idea, but having a shake a day when your body needs protein the most – after workouts – can help muscle protein synthesis, a.k.a. gains.

Matt Kollat
Section Editor | Active

Matt Kollat is a journalist and content creator who works for T3.com and its magazine counterpart as an Active Editor. His areas of expertise include wearables, drones, fitness equipment, nutrition and outdoor gear. He joined T3 in 2019. His byline appears in several publications, including Techradar and Fit&Well, and more. Matt also collaborated with other content creators (e.g. Garage Gym Reviews) and judged many awards, such as the European Specialist Sports Nutrition Alliance's ESSNawards. When he isn't working out, running or cycling, you'll find him roaming the countryside and trying out new podcasting and content creation equipment.

With contributions from