Best Protein Powders of 2025: Whey, Plant-Based & More
We tested and reviewed the top protein powders across all categories: whey isolate, concentrate, hydrolyzed, plant-based, and specialty formulas. Our rankings prioritize protein quality, bioavailability, third-party testing, and ingredient transparency.
Evaluation Criteria: Products were assessed on protein source quality, amino acid profile, digestibility, third-party testing, additives, taste, mixability, and value. We prioritize products with transparent labeling and NSF or Informed-Choice certification.
Quick Comparison
| Rank | Product | Type | Protein | Rating | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey | Whey Protein Isolate/Concentrate | 24g per serving | ★4.7/5 | $50-60 (5 lbs) | View on Amazon |
| #2 | Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate | Grass-Fed Whey Isolate | 28g per serving | ★4.8/5 | $55-65 (2 lbs) | View on Amazon |
| #3 | Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein | Vegan/Plant-Based | 21g per serving | ★4.4/5 | $25-30 (2 lbs) | View on Amazon |
| #4 | Dymatize ISO100 Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate | Hydrolyzed Whey Isolate | 25g per serving | ★4.6/5 | $55-65 (5 lbs) | View on Amazon |
| #5 | Naked Whey Grass-Fed Protein | Unflavored Grass-Fed Whey | 25g per serving | ★4.5/5 | $80-90 (5 lbs) | View on Amazon |
| #6 | Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein | Vegan/Organic Plant-Based | 22g per serving | ★4.3/5 | $35-40 (20 oz) | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews
#1
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey
★4.7/5 Rating$50-60 (5 lbs)
Whey Protein Isolate/ConcentrateBest For: General fitness enthusiasts and athletes seeking proven quality24g per serving
Pros
- • Industry-leading quality and reputation
- • 5.5g BCAAs per serving
- • Excellent mixability
- • Wide variety of flavors
- • Third-party tested
Cons
- • Contains artificial sweeteners
- • Not suitable for lactose intolerant
- • Mid-range price point
Key Features
24g Protein5.5g BCAAs4g GlutamineNSF Certified
#2
Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
★4.8/5 Rating$55-65 (2 lbs)
Grass-Fed Whey IsolateBest For: Health-conscious users wanting clean, grass-fed protein28g per serving
Pros
- • 100% grass-fed whey isolate
- • No artificial sweeteners or coloring
- • Complete transparency in labeling
- • High protein per serving
- • Third-party tested
Cons
- • Higher price per serving
- • Limited flavor options
- • Sweetened with stevia (some may not enjoy taste)
Key Features
28g ProteinGrass-FedNo Artificial IngredientsGluten-Free
#3
Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein
★4.4/5 Rating$25-30 (2 lbs)
Vegan/Plant-BasedBest For: Vegans and those with dairy allergies21g per serving
Pros
- • USDA Organic certified
- • Complete amino acid profile
- • Includes greens and fiber
- • Affordable for plant-based
- • Vegan and allergen-friendly
Cons
- • Grittier texture than whey
- • Earthy taste may not appeal to all
- • Lower protein per serving than whey
Key Features
21g Plant ProteinOrganic5g FiberPea, Brown Rice, Chia
#4
Dymatize ISO100 Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate
★4.6/5 Rating$55-65 (5 lbs)
Hydrolyzed Whey IsolateBest For: Athletes needing rapid protein absorption25g per serving
Pros
- • Fast-absorbing hydrolyzed whey
- • Less than 1g sugar and fat
- • Easy on digestion
- • Informed-Choice certified
- • Great for post-workout
Cons
- • Premium price
- • Some flavors contain artificial ingredients
- • May be unnecessary for casual users
Key Features
25g ProteinHydrolyzed<1g SugarInformed-Choice Certified
#5
Naked Whey Grass-Fed Protein
★4.5/5 Rating$80-90 (5 lbs)
Unflavored Grass-Fed WheyBest For: Purists wanting zero additives and complete control25g per serving
Pros
- • Single ingredient (just whey)
- • 100% grass-fed
- • No additives, sweeteners, or flavors
- • GMO-free and soy-free
- • Maximum purity
Cons
- • Unflavored (requires mixing with other ingredients)
- • Premium pricing
- • Availability can be limited
Key Features
25g Protein1 IngredientGrass-FedNon-GMO
#6
Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein
★4.3/5 Rating$35-40 (20 oz)
Vegan/Organic Plant-BasedBest For: Vegans seeking organic, probiotic-rich protein22g per serving
Pros
- • USDA Organic and Non-GMO
- • Includes probiotics and enzymes
- • Complete amino acid profile
- • Raw, minimally processed
Cons
- • Chalky texture
- • Strong taste (not for everyone)
- • Higher cost for organic plant protein
Key Features
22g ProteinProbioticsOrganic13 Raw Sprouts
How to Choose the Right Protein Powder
Types of Protein Powder
- Whey Concentrate: 70-80% protein, contains some lactose and fat. Good value and taste.
- Whey Isolate: 90%+ protein, low lactose and fat. Better for lactose sensitivity.
- Hydrolyzed Whey: Pre-digested for fastest absorption. Ideal post-workout.
- Casein: Slow-digesting protein, great before bed for sustained amino acid release.
- Plant-Based: Pea, rice, hemp, or blends. Vegan-friendly with complete amino acid profiles.
What to Look For
- At least 20g protein per serving
- Complete amino acid profile (especially leucine for muscle protein synthesis)
- Third-party testing (NSF Certified for Sport, Informed-Choice)
- Minimal added sugars (under 5g per serving)
- Transparent ingredient labels (no proprietary blends)
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Individual protein needs vary based on activity level, body weight, and goals. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized guidance.