Introduction:
Learn about the best protein powders of 2023, different types of protein powder, and tips for selecting the protein that fits you the best.Â
So What Is Protein Powder?
Protein powder is an essential supplement for people who want to build muscle mass, recover from injuries, or maintain a healthy weight. Protein is an essential nutrient that our body needs to repair tissues, create enzymes and hormones, and build muscle. Protein powder is a convenient way to consume the necessary amount of protein, especially for athletes and people with busy lifestyles who may not have the time or desire to prepare protein-rich meals. Additionally, protein powder is available in various forms, such as whey, casein, and plant-based, making it accessible for people with different dietary preferences. Overall, protein powder is an important tool for supporting a healthy lifestyle and achieving fitness goals.
How Do I Choose The Best Protein Powder For My Needs?
When choosing the right protein powder, consider your fitness goals, dietary restrictions, and personal preferences. The type of protein powder, such as whey, casein, or plant-based, will depend on your needs. Look for products with a high protein content per serving and low amounts of calories, carbohydrates, and fats, depending on your fitness goals. Check the brand’s reputation, quality, and ingredients, such as artificial sweeteners, colors, and flavors, and look for third-party testing for quality assurance. Consider your budget and taste preferences when selecting a protein powder. By taking these factors into account, you can choose a protein powder that aligns with your health goals and fits into your lifestyle.
What Are The Different Types Of Protein Powder, And What Do They Do?
There are several types of protein powders available, each with its own unique properties and benefits:
Whey protein: Whey is a fast-digesting protein that is commonly used to build muscle mass, increase strength, and enhance recovery after exercise.
Casein protein: Casein is a slow-digesting protein that is often taken before bed to promote muscle growth and prevent muscle breakdown.
Soy protein: Soy protein is a plant-based protein that is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It contains all nine essential amino acids and is known to promote muscle growth and recovery.
Pea protein: Pea protein is another plant-based protein that is rich in essential amino acids and is ideal for people with allergies or intolerances to other protein sources.
Rice protein: Rice protein is another plant-based protein that is low in fat and carbohydrates, making it a popular option for people looking to lose weight.
Hemp protein: Hemp protein is a plant-based protein that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and is often used to improve heart health and reduce inflammation.
Mixed plant protein: Mixed plant protein powders are a blend of different plant-based proteins that provide a complete source of protein with all essential amino acids.
Overall, choosing the right protein powder depends on your specific fitness goals, dietary restrictions, and personal preferences.
Our Picks For The Best Protein Powders Of 2023
- Â Best Overall Protein Powder:Â Dymatize ISO 100
- Best Whey Protein Powder:Â XWerks Grow
- Â Best Overall Plant-Based Protein Powder:Â Vega
- Best Protein Powder For Men: Jacked Factory Authentic ISOÂ Â
- Best Protein Powder For Women:Â Swolverine Plant Protein
- Best Low Calorie Protein Powder:Â Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein IsolateÂ
- Best Budget-Friendly Protein Powder:Â Jacked Factory Authentic ISOÂ
- Best Protein Powder For Beginners:Â XWerks Grow
- Best Organic Protein Powder:Â LIVWELL Organic Plant ProteinÂ
- Best Tasting Protein Powder:Â Jacked Factory Authentic ISOÂ
- Best Chocolate Protein Powder:Â Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
- Best Protein Powder For Sensitive Stomachs:Â XWerks Grow
- Best Personalized Protein Powder: Gainful Personalized Protein Powder
- Best Protein Powder For 50+ :Â Ritual Daily Shake 50+
We chose this as the best protein powder because Dymatize ISO 100 of its high protein content, fast absorption rate, and low carbohydrate and fat content. With 25 grams of protein per serving, it is an ideal supplement for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who are looking to build muscle and recover quickly after intense workouts.
Pros:
High protein content
Fast absorption
Low carbohydrate and fat content
High-quality ingredients
Great taste and easy to mix
Cons:
Cost
Limited ingredient options
Contains artificial sweeteners
Features of One Scoop:
Calories: 110
Protein: 25 grams
Fat: 0.5 grams
Carbohydrates: 1 gram
Sugar: less than 1 gram
Fiber: less than 1 gram
Cholesterol: 5 milligrams
Sodium: 160 milligrams
 Total Price: $91.05
We chose this as the best protein powder of 2023 because XWerks Grow is a high-quality protein powder that is designed to support muscle growth and repair. Made with whey protein isolate, this supplement provides a potent dose of amino acids while being low in calories, fat, and carbohydrates. XWerks Grow is also free from artificial flavors and sweeteners, making it a clean and natural source of protein.
Pros:
High-quality ingredients
High protein content
Low in calories, fat, and carbohydrates
Free from artificial flavors and sweeteners
Third-party tested
Best Protein Powder For Beginners
Best protein powder for sensitive stomachs
Cons:
Limited flavor options
Higher cost
May not be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance
May not be suitable for vegans or individuals with dairy allergies
 Features of One Scoop:
Calories: 110 Protein: 25 grams Fat: 1 gram Carbohydrates: 2 grams
Sugar: 0 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Cholesterol: 30 milligrams
Sodium: 150 milligrams
Total Price: $58.99
We chose this as the best protein powder of 2023 because Vega Sport Pro protein powder is a plant-based protein supplement designed to support muscle growth and recovery. Made with a blend of pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed, and alfalfa protein, this supplement provides a complete amino acid profile and is rich in BCAAs. Vega Sport Pro is also vegan, gluten-free, and free from artificial flavors and sweeteners, making it a clean and natural source of protein for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Pros:
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Plant-based protein
Complete amino acid profile
High protein content
Rich in BCAAs
Free from artificial flavors and sweeteners
Cons:
Higher cost
May not be suitable for individuals with allergies
May not mix as well
Limited flavor options
Features of One Scoop:
Calories: 160
Protein: 30 grams
Fat: 3 grams
Carbohydrates: 6 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Sugar: 1 gram
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Sodium: 420 milligrams
Total Price: $64.29
Jacked Factory Authentic ISO protein powder is a dietary supplement that is designed to help support muscle growth and recovery after exercise. It is made from high-quality whey protein isolate, which is a fast-digesting and highly bioavailable form of protein that can be easily absorbed by the body. Each serving of Jacked Factory Authentic ISO protein powder contains 25 grams of protein, along with minimal carbohydrates and fat, making it a great choice for individuals who are looking to increase their protein intake while minimizing their overall calorie intake. This protein powder is also free from artificial flavors, colors, and sweeteners, and is available in a variety of delicious flavors to suit different tastes.
Pros:
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High-quality protein source
Low in carbohydrates and fat
Free from artificial additive
Versatile
Variety of flavors
Best Budget Protein Powder
Best Tasting Protein Powder
Cons:
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Allergen concerns: As this protein powder is derived from whey, individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies may experience adverse reactions.
Limited availability
Taste preferences
Not suitable for vegan or vegetarian diets
- Low serving size
Features Of One Scoop:
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Potassium: 110mg
- Total Price: $40
We chose this as the best protein powder because Swolverine Plant Protein Powder is a dietary supplement made from plant-based protein sources such as pea, brown rice, and quinoa. It is designed to help support muscle growth and recovery after exercise, as well as promote overall health and wellness. This protein powder contains 20 grams of protein per serving, along with minimal fat and carbohydrates. It is also free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors, making it a more natural and healthful option compared to other protein supplements. With a variety of delicious flavors available, including chocolate, vanilla, and chai, Swolverine Plant Protein Powder is a versatile and convenient way to increase protein intake for individuals following a plant-based or vegan diet.
Pros:
Plant-based protein source
Complete protein source
Low in fat and carbohydrates
Free from artificial additives
Versatile
Variety of flavors
Cons:
Taste and texture
Allergen concerns: This protein powder is made from pea, brown rice, and quinoa, which are potential allergens for some individuals. Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should avoid this product.
Price
Digestive discomfort
Features Of One Scoop:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Potassium: 100mg
- Total Price: $52.99
We chose this as one of the best protein powders because Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is a dietary supplement made from high-quality, grass-fed whey protein isolate. It is designed to help support muscle growth and recovery after exercise, as well as promote overall health and wellness. This protein powder contains 28 grams of protein per serving, with zero fat, carbohydrates, or sugar, making it a pure and potent source of protein. It is also free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors, and is third-party tested for quality and purity, making it a transparent and trustworthy option for individuals looking to increase their protein intake. With a variety of delicious flavors available, including chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is a versatile and effective way to supplement a healthy diet and active lifestyle.
Pros:
High-quality protein source
Low in fat, carbohydrates, and sugar
Free from artificial additives
Third-party tested for quality and purity
Versatile
Variety of flavors
Best chocolate protein powder
Cons:
Price
Taste
Allergen concerns: This protein powder is made from whey, which is a potential allergen for some individuals. Those with allergies or sensitivities to whey should avoid this product.
Serving size
Features of One Scoop:
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Potassium: 110mg
- Total Price: $60
We chose this as one of the best protein powders because LivWell Protein is a plant-based protein supplement that is formulated to provide a healthier alternative to traditional whey protein supplements. It is made from a blend of pea, brown rice, and hemp protein and is free from common allergens such as gluten, dairy, soy, and nuts. LivWell Protein is available in a variety of flavors and is sold in powdered form to be mixed with water, milk, or plant-based milk alternatives. With approximately 20-25 grams of protein per serving, LivWell Protein is a high-protein option that is relatively low in fat and carbs. While it is less expensive than traditional whey protein supplements, LivWell Protein offers a range of benefits for those looking for a plant-based and allergen-free protein source.
Pros:
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Plant-based protein
- Allergen-free
Organic
Non-dairy
Low in fat and carbs
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Cons:
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Taste
Lower amino acid profile:
Features Of One Scoop:Â
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- Calories: 110
- Total Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 330mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 4g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Total Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Vitamin D: 0mcg
- Calcium: 90mg
- Iron: 4mg
- Potassium: 180mg
- Total Price: $29.99
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Best Personalized Protein Powder: Gainful Personalized Protein Powder
We chose this as one of the best protein powders because Gainful protein powder is a personalized dietary supplement that offers a unique blend of protein based on individual needs and preferences. Customers take a quiz to determine their body type, fitness goals, and dietary restrictions. Based on the quiz results, Gainful formulates a custom blend of protein powder using high-quality ingredients such as whey protein isolate, micellar casein, and plant-based protein sources. The product is designed to support muscle growth, recovery, and overall health and wellness. Gainful protein powder is also free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors. The personalized approach to nutrition makes it a convenient and effective option for individuals looking to supplement their diet with protein.
Pros:
Personalized approach
High-quality ingredients
Convenient and effective
Customizable flavors
No artificial additives
Cons:
Cost
Limited availability
Shipping times
Allergies: While the product can be tailored to meet an individual’s dietary restrictions, some people may still have allergies or intolerances to specific ingredients used in the protein blend.
Taste
Features Of One Scoop:
- Serving size: 1 scoop (34g)
- Calories: 130-140
- Protein: 20-24g
- Carbohydrates: 4-5g
- Fiber: 0-1g
- Total fat: 2-3g
- Sodium: 150-250mg
- Total Price: $45 for 14 servings
We chose Ritual Daily Shake 50+ as one of the best protein powders because it is a dietary supplement designed to support the nutritional needs of individuals over the age of 50. It is formulated with a blend of plant-based protein, vitamins, minerals, and digestive enzymes to help support overall health and wellness. The product contains 20 grams of protein per serving and is free from artificial flavors, colors, and sweeteners. Ritual Daily Shake 50+ is also non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly. The product is designed to be easy to digest and may help to support muscle growth, bone health, and energy levels. It can be used as a meal replacement or a convenient on-the-go snack.
Pros:
Nutrient-dense
Plant-based
Digestive enzymes
Convenient
Free from artificial additives
Tailored to age-specific needs
Cons:
Cost
Taste
Limited availability
Allergies or sensitivities: While the product is vegan-friendly and free from common allergens such as dairy, soy, and gluten, some individuals may still have allergies or sensitivities to specific ingredients used in the formula.
Nutrient interactions: Individuals taking prescription medications or supplements should consult with their healthcare provider before using Ritual Daily Shake 50+, as some nutrients may interact with certain medications or supplements
Features Of One Scoop:
- Calories: 210-220
- Total fat: 7-8g
- Saturated fat: 0.5-1g
- Trans fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 230-260mg
- Total carbohydrate: 14-17g
- Dietary fiber: 6g
- Total sugars: 2-3g
- Protein: 20g
- Total Price: $40