The Best Sports Nutrition Whey Protein Powders
We compared four whey protein powders on owner ratings, expert reviews, and specs. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein is the top pick.
Updated
The bottom line
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein is our top pick for its high-quality protein content, low sugar and carb profile, and excellent owner ratings. It has 24g of protein per scoop, 5.5g of BCAAs, and 11g of EAAs, making it effective for muscle maintenance and growth. The closest alternative is Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate, which has a similar protein content but at a higher price point. For those on a budget, Dymatize ISO100 Protein Powder offers a good balance of price and quality, though it has lower owner ratings. Ascent Whey Protein Powder, despite its high price, has mixed reviews and is not recommended due to its mixing issues and artificial aftertaste.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein $34.67
Best overall whey protein powder
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein has 24g of high-quality protein per scoop, low sugar and carb content, and excellent mixability. Owners rate it 9.4/10 from 29,970 ratings. At $34.67, it offers the best value for its quality. Those looking for a cheaper option may consider Dymatize ISO100.
Check price on Amazon
Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate (Vanilla) 2LBS (Pack of 2) $107.95
High-quality protein at a higher price
Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate has 25g of protein per serving and is manufactured in an NSF certified facility. Owners rate it 8.8/10 from 3,275 ratings. At $107.95 for a 2LB pack, it is more expensive but offers high quality. Those on a budget should look elsewhere.
Check price on Amazon
Dymatize ISO100 Protein Powder, Dunkin' Glazed Donut $33.43
Affordable option with decent reviews
Dymatize ISO100 Protein Powder has 25g of protein per serving and is lactose, carb, fat, and sugar-free. Owners rate it 7.8/10 from 943 ratings. At $33.43, it is the cheapest option but has lower owner ratings. Those seeking higher quality may prefer Optimum Nutrition.
Check price on AmazonThe field, ranked
- Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein Best for quality and value 9.0/10 $34.67 Amazon
- Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate (Vanilla) 2LBS (Pack of 2) High-quality but expensive 8.0/10 $107.95 Amazon
- Dymatize ISO100 Protein Powder, Dunkin' Glazed Donut Good budget option 7.0/10 $33.43 Amazon
- Ascent Whey Protein Powder Mixed reviews, not recommended 5.0/10 $52.24 Amazon
Where the differences show up in daily use
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein is known for its easy mixability and low sugar content, making it a favorite for post-workout recovery. Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate, while higher in price, has a similar protein content and is manufactured in a certified facility, which may appeal to those concerned about purity. Dymatize ISO100, the budget pick, is lactose-free and low in carbs, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Ascent Whey Protein Powder, despite its high price, has significant mixing issues and an artificial aftertaste, which owners frequently complain about.
What owners complain about after buying
Owners of Ascent Whey Protein Powder frequently mention mixing issues and an artificial aftertaste. These complaints are recurrent across multiple reviews, indicating a consistent problem with the product. In contrast, Optimum Nutrition and Nutricost have fewer such complaints, suggesting better overall satisfaction among users.
The also-rans
Ascent Whey Protein Powder, despite its high price, did not earn any pick due to its significant mixing issues and artificial aftertaste. These issues were repeatedly mentioned by owners, making it a poor choice compared to the other options.