The 10 Best Protein Powders for Men in 2025, According to an RD

Men, Meet Your Protein Goals With Our Favorite Protein Powders of 2025

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No time to have a high-protein snack after your workout? No problem: Just whip up a shake with your favorite protein powder and you’re good to go. But when it comes to protein powders, some are better than others, depending on your nutritional goals and needs. Whey, plant-based blends, isolate, concentrate — the options can feel endless, and a little overwhelming. In general, men’s protein needs are higher than women’s because men tend to weigh more and have more skeletal muscle mass.

High-protein diets are popular, and protein powders can be an enticing way to meet your needs easily — but is there such a thing as too much protein? “I recommend between 0.5 and 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight, with the higher end suited for athletes or clients who strength train. Per meal, about 30 grams is ideal for maximizing muscle protein synthesis and supporting satiety,” says Kate Brock, CNS, LDN, founder of Kate Brock Nutrition in Washington, DC. “More than that, I haven’t found it necessary for my clients, and I find it can crowd out other important nutrients like carbs, fats, and fiber,” she adds. In addition to the amount of protein contained in a supplement, factors such as ingredient quality, protein type, added sugars or sweeteners, and third-party testing should all be considered when shopping for a protein powder.

Whether you’re new to protein powders or just trying to upgrade your current go-to, we’ve done the legwork for you. We reviewed the research and analyzed more than 20 popular protein powders for men on the market. These are our top picks.

Our Top Picks for the Best Protein Powders for Men

When to Consult Your Doctor

Everyday Health recommends speaking with your doctor before adding any supplement to your diet, to make sure it is safe and appropriate for your individual health needs. Dietary supplements aren’t regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, so while protein powders are generally safe, it’s important to research the brand and verify that the listed ingredients are accurate and complete. People with liver or kidney conditions should seek medical guidance before using protein powders.

Best Unflavored

Klean Athlete Klean Isolate

$59.60 at Amazon

Pros

  • No artificial flavors or added sweeteners
  • Easy-to-digest whey protein isolate
  • Only two ingredients

Cons

  • Not suitable for vegans or people with dairy allergies

Key Specs

  • Protein source: Whey protein isolate
  • Protein per serving: 20 grams
  • Serving size: One scoop
  • Dietary considerations: Kosher; free of sugar, soy, grain, caffeine, lactose, dairy, and artificial favors and colors
  • Third-party tested: Yes

If you’re looking for a simple, no-frills protein powder, Klean Athlete Klean Isolate is a standout. With 20 grams of high-quality whey protein isolate per serving and no artificial flavors or sweeteners, this unflavored powder is all about simplicity and performance. It’s NSF Certified for Sport, which means it’s been third-party tested for quality and banned substances — something competitive athletes and everyday lifters alike can appreciate.

With only two ingredients (whey protein isolate and sunflower lecithin, an emulsifier), this protein powder is a good option for men who need simple ingredients because of sensitive gastrointestinal tracts or dietary restrictions. There are two types of protein made from whey: whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate. Whey protein isolate goes through extra processing to remove excess fat and lactose, making it a more concentrated form of protein that is often easier to digest.

Whey protein isolate is Brock’s first choice when it comes to protein sources, due to its high protein content, fast absorption, and better digestibility compared with whey protein concentrate. Although this protein powder comes in various flavors, we like the unflavored option for its versatility. You can mix it into smoothies, oatmeal, or simply add it to water or your favorite type of milk.

Best Budget

NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate

$23.75 at Amazon
$39.99Now 41% Off

Pros

  • Most affordable on our list
  • Easy-to-digest whey protein isolate
  • Simple ingredient list
  • No artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners

Cons

  • Not suitable for vegans
  • Not suitable for men with a dairy allergy

Key Specs

  • Protein source: Whey protein isolate
  • Protein per serving: 25 grams
  • Serving size: One scoop
  • Dietary considerations: Kosher; free of gluten, soy, and added sugar
  • Third-party tested: Yes

For a high-quality protein powder that won’t break the bank, NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate delivers. Each serving packs 25 grams of fast-absorbing whey protein isolate with minimal ingredients — no artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors. It’s also Informed Sport certified, meaning it’s been tested for banned substances, making it a trustworthy pick for anyone who wants a simple, reliable protein powder on a budget.

In addition to 25 grams of protein per serving, this product contains the nine essential amino acids (meaning our bodies can’t make them, so we need them from our diet) as well as branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are helpful in preventing muscle breakdown.

Because it’s unflavored, it blends easily into smoothies, shakes, or recipes without overpowering the taste. Whether you’re just getting started with protein supplements or looking for a more affordable daily option, this one gets the job done efficiently and economically.

Best Meal Replacement

Ka’Chava All-in-One-Nutrition Shake

$71.99 at Amazon
$79.99Now 10% Off

Pros

  • Includes fiber, fat, vitamins, and minerals
  • Added prebiotics and probiotics, digestive enzymes
  • Third-party tested
  • 30-day guarantee (Ka’Chava will exchange flavors or offer a store credit)
  • No artificial sweeteners 

Cons

  • Priciest on our list
  • Contains 4 grams of added sugar

Key Specs

  • Protein source: Sacha inchi, pea, brown rice, quinoa, amaranth
  • Protein per serving: 25 grams
  • Serving size: Two scoops
  • Dietary considerations: Vegan; free of gluten and soy
  • Third-party tested: Yes
Generally, protein powders on their own shouldn’t take the place of a meal or even a snack. It’s best to think of conventional protein powders as something that you add to your diet to increase protein. However, some protein powders can function as (small) meal replacements, and Ka’Chava is one of them. This protein powder is packed with nutrition, including 25 grams of protein from plant-based sources, 6 grams of fiber, 6 grams of fat, and a blend of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, calcium, and iron. For men specifically, we love that one serving contains more than half of their daily zinc requirements, as zinc is a key nutrient for skin, bone, and immune health.

One serving is 240 calories, which may not be enough to replace an entire meal (especially if you want to bulk up), but it could stand in as a snack or a way to add calories to a lighter meal. In addition to a super greens and vegetable blend, Ka’Chava includes a blend of adaptogenic ingredients (herbs that can help you better adapt to stress), prebiotics, probiotics, and enzymes to support digestion. We love that it’s third-party tested by ConsumerLab.com, an independent testing company that evaluates the quality of consumer products. Ka’Chava is the most expensive protein powder on our list, but you could stretch the amount of servings per bag by cutting the serving size in half.

Best Hemp

Nutiva Organic Hemp Protein

$20.13 at Amazon
$21.19Now 5% Off

Pros

  • 100 percent hemp seed protein
  • Provides fiber and all essential amino acids
  • Organic, vegan, non-GMO verified

Cons

  • Taste may not appeal to all
  • Not ideal to consume before cardio workouts, due to its fiber content

Key Specs

  • Protein source: Organic hemp seeds
  • Protein per serving: 15 grams
  • Serving size: 4 tablespoons
  • Dietary considerations: Non-GMO verified; free of gluten and added sugar
  • Third-party tested: Yes

When people think of hemp, they don’t usually think of protein powder, but hemp protein is a complete protein option that’s vegan-friendly and full of nutrients. One serving of Nutiva Organic Hemp Protein contains 15 grams of protein sourced from cold-pressed organic hemp seeds. For men following a vegan diet, it can be challenging to find a protein powder that only has one ingredient and provides all of the essential amino acids — Nutiva fits the bill.

In addition to protein, this supplement packs in about 15 percent of men’s daily fiber needs, along with 36 percent of their zinc needs and more than half of their magnesium needs.

A quick note on fiber: While it’s essential for overall health and wellness, consuming it right before a cardio workout could lead to unwanted digestive symptoms such as gas or sudden bowel urgency. Fiber takes time to digest, and digestion tends to slow down during intense cardio sessions. For that reason, this protein powder is best saved for after your workout. If you’ve never tried it, hemp protein has a slightly nutty taste and can add flavor to oatmeal and smoothies. Finally, this product is organic, vegan, non-GMO verified, and third-party tested by ConsumerLab.com.

Best Whey

Simply Tera’s Organic Whey Protein

$34.15 at Amazon
$35.95Now 5% Off

Pros

  • High-quality organic whey from grass-fed cows
  • Non-GMO certified, gluten-free
  • Only two ingredients

Cons

  • Not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies

Key Specs

  • Protein source: Organic whey concentrate
  • Protein per serving: 21 grams
  • Serving size: Two scoops
  • Dietary considerations: Gluten-free, organic, kosher, non-GMO verified
  • Third-party tested: Yes
Whey protein is a type of complete protein that is isolated from milk. Compared to whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate tends to have more nutrients, a creamier taste, and is generally less expensive. The jury is still out on whether or not concentrate or isolate is better, so choosing between the two tends to come down to personal preference.

Simply Tera’s Organic Whey Protein powder is made with milk from organic, family-run farms. One serving contains 21 grams of protein. This protein powder keeps things simple, with just two ingredients: organic whey protein concentrate and organic sunflower lecithin. It also comes in chocolate and vanilla flavors.

Best enjoyed in a smoothie or mixed with water or milk, this protein powder can also be added to baked goods to boost the protein content of your favorite muffin or pancake recipe. Although this particular protein powder isn’t lactose-free, Simply Tera’s also has a lactose-free protein powder line for those who prefer whey protein but need a lactose-free option.

Best Pea Protein

Nuzest Clean Lean Protein

$44.99 at Walmart
$44.95

Pros

  • Contains up to 21 grams of pea protein per serving
  • Unflavored option has a simple ingredient list
  • Free of most common allergens
  • Contains iron
  • HSA/FSA-eligible

Cons

  • Flavored options may have an aftertaste

Key Specs

  • Protein source: Pea protein isolate
  • Protein per serving: Up to 21 grams
  • Serving size: Two scoops
  • Dietary considerations: Vegan, non-GMO verified, free of gluten and soy
  • Third-party tested: Yes
Nuzest Clean Lean Protein provides up to 21 grams of complete protein from European golden peas in one serving, with the amount of protein varying by flavor. Nuzest extracts the pea protein using a water-based extraction process, which ensures that the product is free of most common allergens and additives, making it ideal for a variety of dietary needs. In addition to providing up to 21 grams of complete protein, one serving provides men with roughly 47 percent of their daily iron needs. Iron consumption is important for people following a plant-based diet, and iron in general is important for mood, energy levels, immune function, and athletic performance.

Nuzest Clean Lean Protein comes in various flavors. We recommend the natural flavor, as it’s made with one ingredient: pea protein isolate. The flavored options are sweetened with thaumatin, a protein derived from a fruit extract that can have a slight licorice aftertaste.

Additionally, the flavored options are made with “natural flavors,” and though these are recognized as safe, natural flavors is a general term for processed additives, making it hard to know exactly what’s included. The Nuzest website says that every batch of Clean Lean Protein is tested for levels of yeast and mold, and that its products are tested for pesticides and heavy metals.

Best Flavored

ProMix Grass-Fed Whey

$49.49 at Amazon
$54.99Now 10% Off

Pros

  • Flavored with raw cacao
  • No artificial sweeteners
  • Made with milk from grass-fed cows

Cons

  • Contains 4 grams of added sugar
  • Not suitable for those with dairy or lactose allergies

Key Specs

  • Protein source: Grass-fed whey protein concentrate
  • Protein per serving: 25 grams
  • Serving size: Two scoops
  • Dietary considerations: Free of gluten, peanuts, and soy
  • Third-party tested: Yes

Flavored protein powders may be tastier than their unflavored counterparts, but too often they are full of artificial sweeteners and natural flavors, which can cause annoying digestive symptoms. This chocolate-flavored protein powder offers a high-quality option for men looking for a delicious, effective post-workout nutrition. Raw cacao and organic coconut sugar provide a lightly sweet flavor without artificial additives.

Each serving delivers 25 grams of protein and 6 grams of BCAAs to help support muscle growth and recovery. ProMix emphasizes ingredient transparency and purity, and it manufactures its protein powder in certified gluten-free and peanut-free facilities. ProMix also lists its third-party lab testing results on its website. Though this protein powder can be consumed any time of day, the rich chocolate flavor makes it a great option for guys who enjoy something sweet after a meal. Mix it with your favorite milk or stir it into plain yogurt for a creamy, protein-packed treat.

Of note, one serving does contain 4 grams of added sugar, which is equivalent to roughly one packet of sugar. This is by no means a lot of sugar, but if you don’t like added sugars in your supplements, this powder is not for you.

Best Collagen

BUBS Naturals Collagen Peptides

$42.25 at Amazon
$46.94Now 10% Off

Pros

  • Fully hydrolyzed collagen peptides from grass-fed cows
  • Simple ingredient list
  • Zero taste, dissolves easily into liquids, smoothies, and baked goods
  • HSA/FSA-eligible
  • NSF Certified for Sport

Cons

  • Not a complete protein source

Key Specs

  • Protein source: Bovine collagen peptides
  • Protein per serving: 18 grams
  • Serving size: One scoop
  • Dietary considerations: Free of gluten, nuts, soy, and dairy
  • Third-party tested: Yes

One serving of BUBS Naturals Collagen Peptides provides 18 grams of protein in a flavorless powder that mixes well into liquid, smoothies, and baked goods. Collagen peptides are not complete proteins, and this product only provides eight of the nine essential amino acids — although this is not necessarily an issue, as long as you are consuming other sources of protein throughout the day.

Collagen is a key protein that helps maintain the structure and strength of our bones, skin, joints, and other connective tissues. Many people take supplemental collagen to support healthy joints, but it can also be used as a protein source that has very little taste. To improve absorption, collagen is often processed into peptides — shorter chains of amino acids that are easier for the body to digest and utilize. We love that BUBS is NSF Certified for Sport, and free of gluten, nuts, soy, and dairy.

Best Whey Isolate

Thorne Whey Protein Isolate

$61.75 at Amazon
$65Now 5% Off

Pros

  • Includes digestive enzymes to support protein digestion and absorption
  • NSF Certified for Sport
  • Low in calories

Cons

  • Stevia may cause digestive upset in some
  • Not suitable for people with dairy allergies

Key Specs

  • Protein source: Whey protein isolate
  • Protein per serving: 21 grams
  • Serving size: One scoop
  • Dietary considerations: Gluten-free
  • Third-party tested: Yes
Thorne Whey Protein Isolate is a premium protein supplement designed to help support muscle repair and maintenance. Each serving provides 21 grams of whey protein isolate, delivering a complete amino acid profile. Thorne includes bromelain and papain (naturally occurring enzymes extracted from pineapple and papaya) in its formula to enhance protein digestion and absorption.

It’s sweetened with evaporated cane juice sugar and stevia extract, and it contains only 1 gram of added sugar per serving, making it a low-calorie, low-fat option suitable for various dietary needs.

To ensure its quality and safety, Thorne Whey Protein Isolate is NSF Certified for Sport, meaning it’s free of more than 200 substances banned by major athletic organizations. It comes in chocolate and vanilla flavors. One thing to note for individuals with sensitive digestive tracts is that this protein powder does contain gums, “flavors,” and rebaudioside A (a noncaloric sweetener from the stevia plant), which might cause digestive upset in some individuals.

Best Vegan Blend

Four Sigmatic Organic Protein

$26.35 at Walmart

Pros

  • Vegan blend of vegetables
  • Complete protein source
  • Mushroom blend for stress and immunity support
  • Organic ingredients

Cons

  • Thick consistency when mixed with only water
  • Monk fruit in flavored versions may taste overly sweet

Key Specs

  • Protein source: Pea, hemp, pumpkin, coconut, and chia
  • Protein per serving: 18 grams
  • Serving size: One scoop
  • Dietary considerations: Gluten-free, organic
  • Third-party tested: Yes

Four Sigmatic is known for its mushroom and adaptogen blends designed to support a healthier lifestyle.

This powder stands out for men who want more than just muscle recovery: It is a protein blend that supports both physical and mental performance. With 18 grams of organic plant-based protein per serving, it’s made from a mix of pea, hemp, pumpkin, coconut, and chia proteins for a complete amino acid profile. What sets this product apart is the addition of a functional mushroom blend, including reishi, lion’s mane, and turkey tail, which are known to help manage stress, support immunity, and enhance endurance, making this a great option for men juggling intense workouts and demanding schedules.

Unlike other protein powders that rely on natural flavors, Four Sigmatic uses real ingredients, such as vanilla powder, cacao powder, and peanuts, to create its different flavor options. Using both coconut sugar and monk fruit, one serving only contains 2 grams of added sugar. We find that it blends well in smoothies and oatmeal, but it can be a bit thick when simply mixed with water.

The Four Sigmatic website states that its products are third-party tested for heavy metals, mycotoxins, mold, yeast, and pesticides.

Comparison Table

Best
Protein Source
Protein Per Serving
Third-Party Tested
Unflavored
Whey protein isolate
20 grams
Yes
Budget
Whey protein isolate
25 grams
Yes
Meal replacement
Sacha inchi, pea, brown rice, quinoa, amaranth
25 grams
Yes
Hemp
Organic hemp seeds
15 grams
Yes
Whey
Organic whey concentrate
21 grams
Yes
Pea protein
Pea protein isolate
Up to 21 grams
Yes
Flavored
Grass-fed whey protein concentrate
25 grams
Yes
Collagen
Bovine collagen peptides
18 grams
Yes
Whey isolate
Whey protein isolate
21 grams
Yes
Vegan blend
Pea, hemp, pumpkin, coconut, and chia
18 grams
Yes

How We Chose the Best Protein Powders for Men

When evaluating supplements for this list, I relied on the same criteria I use when advising clients or family members: I only chose products I’d personally feel confident recommending. As a registered dietitian in clinical practice, I’ve developed a strong filter for quality. I start by reviewing whether a supplement has undergone third-party testing for purity and accuracy. From there, I consider whether it avoids common allergens, unnecessary fillers, and excessive use of herbs or botanicals, which can be problematic for some people. For this article, I assessed more than 20 different products, which I narrowed down to the best options. I also consulted with Kate Brock, CNS, LDN, founder of Kate Brock Nutrition in Washington, DC, for her insights as well.

What to Look for When Buying a Protein Powder for Men

Choosing a protein powder can be overwhelming, but there are some key things to consider that will make you a more discerning shopper. And remember, not everyone needs a protein powder — but they do make it easier to add more protein to your diet, especially if you are frequently on the go, following a plant-based diet, or looking to boost your protein intake.

Here are the things to look for when shopping for a protein powder:

  • Third-party testing: Check that the supplement has been third-party tested for purity and potency.
  • Added ingredients: Make sure that the supplement doesn’t contain any ingredients that can interfere with medications you’re taking, nor any ingredients that you may be allergic or sensitive to.
  • Added sugar: In an ideal world, your protein powder should be free of added sugars. If it does have added sugars, look for one that has 4 grams or less of added sugars.

FAQ

Should I use protein powder before or after a workout?
The answer to this question is highly individualized and depends on your goals and what type of exercise you are doing. In general, I suggest that clients have an easy-to-digest snack before a workout, such as a piece of fruit or a piece of fruit and nut butter, followed by a protein-heavy snack like a protein shake after the workout. 
This depends on your dietary requirements and goals. Vegans and plant-based eaters will benefit from a protein powder that either features one complete protein source, such as hemp, or a blend of sources that create a complete protein. Many people like whey protein isolate because it’s easily digested and tends to have a slightly higher protein content.

Why Trust Everyday Health

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Sydney Greene, MS, RDN

Author

Sydney Greene is a freelance writer and a registered dietitian specializing in behavioral health nutrition. She received her bachelor of science in nutrition and dietetics and her master of science in clinical nutrition from New York University.

Sydney began her career in New York City and worked at one of the top private practices in Manhattan while building the nutrition curriculum for a residential treatment center. She then started her own private practice, Greene Health, in 2019, and has since helped hundreds of clients on their path to recovery from eating disorders, substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, and common chronic illnesses. “Healthy” is far from cookie-cutter and there’s no formula, so Sydney approaches nutrition in a realistic, down-to-earth, grounded, and highly personalized way with her clients.

Sydney currently lives in Boulder, Colrado, with her dog, Charlie, and her wife. When she is not working with clients, you can find her hiking in the backcountry or spending time with friends.

Evan Starkman

Fact-Checker

Evan Starkman has worked in health journalism since 2011. He has written and fact-checked content for sites such as WebMD and Mayo Clinic. He earned a master's degree in journalism from the University of Florida.

Lili Ladaga

Lili Ladaga

Editor
Lili Ladaga is a freelance editor on the Marketplace Team at Everyday Health.
EDITORIAL SOURCES
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