The Best 13 Protein Powders of 2026, Tested by Editors and Reviewed by Dietitians

“Thorne is NSF Certified, which helps ensure quality ingredients in all their products, including protein powders,” says Kaytee Hadley, RDN, functional medicine dietitian and founder of Holistic Health and Wellness in Richmond, Virginia. The National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) is an independent testing organization that tests for contaminants, banned substances, and ingredient accuracy.

When I tested this powder, the chocolate flavor won me over, reminding me of a milkshake — creamy, sweet but not overpowering, and not at all chalky. I used it in a smoothie and on its own mixed with almond milk, which tasted like chocolate milk. The vanilla was lighter but blended easily into fruit-based smoothies, complementing rather than overpowering the other flavors. I also found the thicker texture made my shakes more satisfying and helped me feel full for hours.

It does contain gums for thickening, which Hadley cautions may cause digestive discomfort for some. It also includes a small amount of added sugar (1 g evaporated cane juice per serving), which isn’t a concern for most people, but could be less ideal for those tracking their sugar intake.

For those seeking a reliable, third-party certified whey protein that consistently delivers on both taste and quality, Thorne is a powder you will want to add to your daily routine.

Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate is a high-quality, no-frills option for athletes who want a protein supplement without unnecessary extras. Each serving provides 28 g of 100 percent grass-fed whey isolate without artificial sweeteners, colors, or fillers, making it a straightforward choice for athletes to support muscle recovery and repair. It’s third-party tested with an Informed Choice Certification, which means it’s screened for banned substances and contaminants.

Editor and writer Katie Tuttle put it to the test and found it both reliable and refreshingly straightforward. “The flavor is mild, not too sweet, and creamy,” she says. “It’s a typical chocolate protein powder — though the flavor is better than most. It’s not as dessert-like as some, but very drinkable, with no overly artificial taste.” She notes that it blends smoothly into both water and almond milk, though almond milk gave it a creamier, more satisfying finish.

The brand offers 19 flavors, including Chocolate, French Vanilla, Strawberry Milkshake, and Chocolate Peanut Butter, so there’s something for everyone. While the lack of added nutrients or probiotics makes it less of an all-in-one option, that simplicity is also part of its appeal. For athletes who prefer to keep supplements basic and build meals around them, it’s a dependable pick.

Plant-based protein powders can have a reputation for being gritty, overly “pea” flavored, or hard to digest. Quince counters this with a USDA Organic formula that combines pea, brown rice, chia seed, and pumpkin proteins for a more balanced nutrient profile. Free from gluten, dairy, soy, and added sugar, it also contains probiotics and digestive enzymes to support digestion.

Writer Raki Swanson tested this product and found the monk fruit–sweetened vanilla flavor to be a standout, reminding her of classic vanilla ice cream. “This product really shines in a smoothie,” Swanson says. “With fruit, the flavors balanced beautifully and the grit was hardly noticeable.”

Though slightly gritty when mixed only with water, the powder turned creamy once blended and kept Swanson full for nearly seven hours — one of the most satiating plant-based options we tested. A bit of foam after shaking and some residue at the bottom of a shaker bottle were small drawbacks, along with packaging that comes in a zip-close bag (functional, but less convenient and a little messier than a tub). Still, the affordability and quality make it a clear winner in the plant-based category.

Koia Plant-Based Protein Powder is one of the few plant-based options that can serve as both a snack and a satisfying light meal replacement when blended into a smoothie. With 20 g of pea protein, 6 g of prebiotic fiber from chicory root, and 21 vitamins and minerals, you can combine it with fruit, nut butter, or another fat source to create a balanced, filling meal.

“The dairy- and gum-free ingredient list makes this powder a gut-friendly choice,” says Hadley. “Koia stands out as a better meal replacement option because it has 6 g of fiber plus added vitamins and minerals.” This is also one of the only powders that doesn't contain monk fruit, stevia, sucralose, or other types of sweeteners (it’s sweetened with a small amount of cane sugar).

I found the chocolate tasted like chocolate milk — sweet but not fake or chalky. The vanilla was really versatile, tasting creamy with almond milk and blending easily into my strawberry smoothie without taking over the flavor. I like that it didn’t taste “fake” like some of the other powders with different sweeteners.

Koia is thin and drinkable on its own, but it’s best in smoothies where the texture is creamier and more filling. After a post-workout shake, I stayed full for hours. Both flavors blended well in a blender, but hand mixing left some clumps unless I used a frother.

Chicory root fiber may cause bloating for some people, and the added vitamins may be unnecessary if you already take a multivitamin. The bag also lacks a scoop, which makes portioning less convenient. Still, Koia stands out as a tasty plant-based powder that works as both a snack and a smoothie meal.

Writer SaVanna Shoemaker, RDN, found the flavor to be impressive compared with other whey powders she tested. “The chocolate was sweet and rich and very much reminded me of a brownie batter flavor,” she says. “There was a mild bitterness, but overall very creamy and chocolatey.” The texture was thick and satisfying, especially when prepared with skim milk rather than water.

The biggest drawback is mixibility. “This was one of the best tasting ones I tried, but also had the worst clumping,” Shoemaker says. Even with an electric whisk, she struggled to fully dissolve it, though a blender or immersion blender worked well. While that adds an extra step, the payoff is a smooth, dessert-like shake that feels like a treat.

The high protein-to-calorie ratio is ideal for weight loss, but it also means this powder isn’t meant to replace a full meal. Instead, it shines as a post-workout shake or protein-rich snack. Ascent is a standout for people seeking a whey protein that supports weight loss goals and tastes great. Just be prepared to break out your blender.

“Future Kind Plant-Powered Organic Protein is an excellent choice for smoothies because its creamy vanilla flavor pairs well with a wide range of different ingredients,” says Sarah Glinski, RD, a health writer based in Vancouver, Canada. She also points out that it’s vegan, free from common allergens like soy and gluten, and packaged in a compostable pouch for eco-conscious buyers.

In testing, writer Brittany Vargas found the flavor delicate and enjoyable. “It was soft and not overly sweet at all, and best of all, not chalky,” she explains. She describes the vanilla as mild — closer to a vanilla latte than an artificially sweetened shake — and notes that it mixes easily with no clumps or residue. Vargas also highlights its versatility, noting that it tastes good with coconut water, juice, or blended into a fruit-based smoothie.

Another plus is that Future Kind is both carbon neutral and committed to sustainable packaging. A potential drawback is the limited flavor options, but the mild vanilla base works well as a foundation for many types of smoothies. Overall, Future Kind is a strong pick for anyone who prefers to get their protein in smoothie form.

Not everyone wants their protein powder to taste like dessert. For those who prefer an unflavored option, Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate contains just two ingredients: 25 g of whey protein isolate and sunflower lecithin.

I tested this product and was shocked at how little I could taste it, even in plain water. The powder dissolves smoothly, leaving no chalkiness or clumps, and works equally well in water, milk, or blended shakes.

Because it’s unflavored, this product doesn’t add sweetness, which can be a plus or a minus depending on your preferences. It won’t provide the taste of chocolate or vanilla (although these flavors are available by this brand), but it also won’t overpower a smoothie, oatmeal, or yogurt. The simplicity also means no added micronutrients, so you’ll need to rely on whole foods for those, and it won’t work for people with dairy allergies, and those who are lactose intolerant may want to consider a different protein source. But for anyone who wants a simple protein boost that they can easily incorporate into any meal, Now Sports is our top choice.

Swanson, who tested this product, was impressed. “Wow — just wow. These are the perfect amount of sweet, no chalky texture, just solid flavor. It tastes like juice, not a protein drink,” she explains. She describes the four flavors — Coconut Colada, Icy Blue Razz, Kiwi Strawberry, and Frosty Lemonade — as tasting like “shaved ice” or even a blue raspberry Jolly Rancher.

Swanson notes that the powder blends perfectly in a shaker bottle, with no clumps or residue, resulting in a thin, juice-like consistency. “This is the first juice-tasting protein powder I’ve tried, and any others moving forward will be held to this level,” she says. “You don’t taste the protein at all — which is amazing.”

Swanson is clear about why Javvy stands out compared with other protein coffees she has tried. “This tastes like iced coffee — hands down, straight up, no boloney,” she says. She purposely tried the original coffee flavor to see if it tasted like the real thing, but it’s also available in flavors like Salted Caramel, Sugar Cookie, and Iced Cinnamon Roll. The powder mixes easily into water, resulting in a smooth, creamy consistency with no clumps or residue.

Swanson tested it in different ways — mixed with water, milk, and even half-and-half. Water was her favorite, making it taste most like classic iced coffee. Adding milk gave it more body, while blending it with milk created a drink closer to a café-style consistency.

Despite containing only 10 g of protein, satiety was another highlight as Swanson reports it kept her full for five to six hours — much longer than a typical cup of black coffee. Between the protein and prebiotic blend, it functions as both a caffeine fix and a satisfying snack.

One limitation is that it doesn’t hold up as a substitute for hot coffee. “I tried it with hot water and it just didn’t work — it tasted like instant coffee,” Swanson noted. But for iced coffee lovers who want their morning ritual to come with extra protein and staying power, Javvy is an option that actually tastes like the real thing. “Finally, a protein coffee that tastes like coffee,” says Swanson. “This will truly make coffee lovers happy.” 

Collagen powders are popular for their beauty and joint benefits, but not all are created equal. Bubs Collagen Peptides contains 20 g of hydrolyzed collagen per serving in a tasteless, dissolvable powder that blends easily into coffee, smoothies, or even plain water. It’s NSF Certified for Sport and free of gluten, dairy, soy, and artificial additives.

Writer Amy Sowder tested this product and loved how easy it is to use. “It has zero flavor — I could taste my drink’s original flavor before adding this collagen, so it was nice and tasteless. It dissolved so well, there was no texture; it just disappeared.” She found it blended equally well into water, kefir, and milk, with no clumps or residue.

While Bubs is convenient and versatile, it’s not as filling as a complete protein. Sowder notes she stayed full for only one to two hours after using it. The lack of flavor may also feel boring to those who prefer more of a treat-like powder. Overall, Bubs Collagen Peptides stands out for its quality, certifications, and “disappearing act” that makes it one of the easiest collagen powders to add to your daily routine.

High-quality whey protein supplements that taste good don’t have to come with a long ingredient list. Simply Tera’s Organic Whey Protein delivers 20 g of protein per serving with just four simple, organic ingredients.

“For those seeking a clean whey protein, Tera’s Whey is an excellent choice,” says Ballenthin. “Their protein is sourced from small organic farms, with both organic and grass-fed options available, and undergoes third-party testing to ensure purity.” She also notes that a lactose-free version is available, making it easier for those with sensitivities to enjoy whey without discomfort.

Swanson was equally impressed: “Loved, loved, loved the taste. I truly did. It was sweet enough but also a little creamier than normal chocolate milk.” She compares it with a lighter chocolate shake — smooth, not chalky, and with just the right amount of sweetness.

Mixability was another win for Swanson. Whether combined with water or 1 percent milk, it blends easily, leaving no clumps or gritty residue, and only a slight foam when mixed. Swanson also notes it kept her full and energized. “I drank this in the morning right after my coffee and didn’t even think about food for about five hours,” she says.

The eco-friendly packaging, made from recycled materials, is a nice bonus, though Swanson’s only complaint is that she wishes the container were larger, as she plans to purchase it again. Overall, Simply Tera stands out as a unique blend of simplicity, quality, and taste.

Plant-based protein powders aren’t always known for taste, but Kos offers eight flavor options — everything from Vanilla and Chocolate to Blueberry Muffin and Salted Caramel Coffee. Each serving provides 20 g of protein from a blend of pea, flax, quinoa, pumpkin seed, and chia, along with a fruit-and-veggie “superfood” mix, 12 essential vitamins and minerals, and added digestive enzymes.

“Kos Organic Superfood Plant Protein stands out for its quality blend of plant proteins and organic superfoods, which add extra vitamins and minerals,” says Kathryn Durston, RDN, owner of Naturally Good Nutrition in Grand Rapids, Michigan, who also noted its creamy texture from coconut milk. “I appreciate that it’s certified organic, a quality you don’t see often with protein powders.”

I tested this product with my family. The Vanilla flavor was a hit — even with my kids. It blends easily into smoothies without overpowering the fruit and has a creamy, smooth texture that avoids the gum-heavy thickness often associated with some powders. I like that Kos is versatile enough to work for kids’ smoothies, adult snacks, or workout recovery, though the two-scoop serving felt like a lot of powder when mixed only with water.

The blend includes inulin, which can cause bloating in sensitive stomachs, along with 290 mg of sodium and 4 g of saturated fat per serving. The added vitamins and minerals may benefit those on plant-based diets, but could be unnecessary if you already take a multivitamin.

Still, for plant-based eaters who care about both flavor and nutrient extras, Kos is a strong choice. With multiple flavor options and a creamy, nonchalky texture, it’s one of the most enjoyable plant-based proteins to drink regularly.

If you want an organic protein powder without the extras, Orgain Simple Plant Protein Powder lives up to its name. Each two-scoop serving delivers 20 g of protein from a blend of pea, peanut, brown rice, pumpkin, almond, and chia, sweetened only with organic coconut sugar. With just a handful of ingredients and no gums, fillers, or nonnutritive sweeteners, it’s one of the most straightforward plant-based proteins we tested.

“I like the straightforwardness of this formula,” says Scanniello. “It’s exactly what it says: simple. Many powders add in extra ingredients, which can be useful, but there’s something refreshing about a straight-forward product that tastes good, blends well, and makes a nice addition to an already balanced diet.”

In testing, the peanut butter flavor lived up to its promise. “It’s very peanut-forward, with a bit of almond,” Scanniello notes, adding that it isn’t chalky and has no lingering sweetener aftertaste. She found it smooth and thin when mixed with water, with some foam that settled quickly, and creamy when added to smoothies with bananas or other fruits.

The formula’s simplicity makes it versatile and easy to blend into smoothies, oatmeal, or other meals for a protein boost. However, there are trade-offs. The sodium content is relatively high (around 400 mg per serving depending on flavor), which, according to Scanniello, may be helpful for active people who need electrolyte replenishment but could be a drawback for those on sodium-restricted diets. And because it relies heavily on legumes, nuts, and seeds, it’s not appropriate for people with peanut or seed allergies.

“Overall, it’s a nutrient-dense, multisource protein option with a natural sweetener that could appeal to those seeking a plant-based option, with simple, straightforward ingredients,” says Scanniello.