Best Whey Protein of 2023

Last Updated on December 27, 2021

Our editors independently research the best products online to produce this list. We may receive commission on purchases made from the links below but this will never affect our product choices.

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Top 10 Best Whey Protein

1. On Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard (Editor’s Choice)
2. On Optimum Nutrition Platinum Hydro (Luxury Choice)
3. Myprotein Impact (Best Value)
4. Scitec Nutrition Professional Vanilla (Best Flavour)
5. Bulk Powders Pure (Best for Muscle Growth)
6. USN Hardcore Anabolic (Best with Creatine)
7. PhD Nutrition Diet (Best Low Calorie)
8. Chocolate Silk 2kg Low Sugar (Best Mixable)
9. Dymatize ISO 100 Hydrolyzed (Best Pure)
10. Pulsin Balanced Nutrition Dairy-Based (Best Unflavoured)

Adding whey protein powder to your regular diet is a great way to maintain and build muscle growth. Whey protein can also help reduce muscle fatigue and speed up recovery time. If you exercise regularly and are looking for a way to level up your athletic progress, whey protein could be just what you need. But with all of the options available on the market today, how do you know which whey protein is right for you? Don’t worry! We are here to help. This article explores our top 10 picks for the best whey protein in the UK and offers a helpful buyer’s guide at the end to answer common questions. By the time you are done reading, you should be all set to choose a whey protein powder that suits your specific tastes and exercise needs.

Whey Protein Reviews

On Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard (Editor’s Choice)

Our favourite all-around choice for the best whey protein isolate is On Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard. Not only does On Optimum Nutrition have more than 20 years of experience producing top quality whey protein, but their Gold Standard is fully equipped to help you grow, repair, and maintain muscle efficiently and effectively.

Features

100% Whey protein isolate is used in the production of Gold Standard. Each serving contains 24 grams of protein and 5.5g branch chain amino acids (BCAAs). BCAAs provide your body with a myriad of benefits. During a workout, they help to reduce muscle soreness, enhance muscle growth, and reduce muscle fatigue. With the elevated combination of protein and BCAAs in the Gold Standard, you can expect to see lean muscle mass and muscle gain when you add it into your regular diet and exercise routine.

To further help you maintain your dietary goals, On also made sure this whey protein is low in sugar and low in fat to keep you on track. It is available in a variety of flavours to suit different tastes, but the Double Rich Chocolate is our favourite. To mix, simply add to water and shake for about 30 seconds to achieve a smooth blend. Thanks to an added thickener, it also makes a creamy, frothy finished drink.

Be aware that Gold Standard whey protein does contain soy which some people are allergic to. It is also somewhat less flavourful, but if you often feel overwhelmed by artificial flavours in whey protein, you may see this as a benefit. Lastly, we think On could benefit from reducing the amount of packaging, but overall, this whey isolate can help you build muscle and maintain a balanced diet like the best of them.

On Optimum Nutrition Platinum Hydro (Luxury Choice)

If you are looking for a luxury isolate whey protein, the On Optimum Nutrition Platinum Hydro is our top choice. It is made with hydrolysed whey protein isolate, which is the purest, most concentrated form of protein possible.

Features

Hydrolysed whey isolate is also low in carbs, low in fat, about 99% lactose-free, and quick digesting, so you can start reaping the benefits of increased protein intake as quickly as possible. This single-source pure whey protein isolate contains 30 grams of protein and 9.5g BCAAs per serving, providing you with all of the essential amino acids you need to help build and maintain muscle mass. In addition, it has no excess fat or sugar, just the healthy fats you want.

Platinum Hydro mixes easily, even for a hydrolysate whey protein. It also has the benefit of an added thickener to facilitate a richer, creamier whey protein shake when mixed with water or milk. For flavours, On Optimum Nutrition makes this variety of whey protein powder in milk chocolate, vanilla bean, or super strawberry.

While we love this luxury whey protein powder option for the reasons listed above, the flavour could be too sweet for some people’s preference, thanks to some artificial sweeteners. Also, some people report that their product shows up without the included scoop, and we think it could benefit from a bit less packaging.

Myprotein Impact (Best Value)

My Protein Impact whey protein is our top pick for the best value protein powder. When it comes to whey protein products, this whey protein concentrate is packed with all of the nutrients you need to facilitate healthy protein synthesis and build muscle.

Features

Impact whey protein concentrate is made from 80% whey milk protein powder. It contains 4.5 BCAA’s and a protein content of 18 grams per serving, so it is great for making protein shakes at breakfast, before a workout, or after a workout. This whey concentrate is also low in carbs, fat, and sugar, allowing for a more balanced diet.

This whey protein concentrate comes in a wide range of flavours and sizes, but we prefer the more traditional vanilla protein shake flavour. All of the flavours are vegetarian and gluten-free to accommodate a variety of dietary restrictions and preferences, which not all protein supplements can facilitate.

Impact whey protein has some potential drawbacks, including the fact that it contains milk and soy, which may not be suitable for everyone’s dietary restrictions, the fact that it is not made from pure whey powder, and it has a unique flavour. Like much other whey protein concentrates, it may have an aftertaste, and it could be a bit sweeter than some people tend to prefer.

Scitec Nutrition Professional Vanilla (Best Flavour)

When it comes to the best tasting protein powder, Scitec Nutrition Professional is our top choice. It has a rich, smooth vanilla flavour and is made with 100% whey protein concentrate and isolate to bring you a complete protein with amino acids in every shake.

Features

Each protein shakes made from 100% protein concentrate and isolates whey protein increases your protein intake by 22 grams. It also features added plant enzymes, amino acids, and digestive enzymes to help your body absorb the benefits as efficiently as possible. Each serving also contains 5 grams of branched-chain amino acids.

While we think the vanilla is the best tasting flavour, this whey isolate and concentrate is available in an extensive range of flavours. To further improve flavour and health benefits, the flavours have no added sugar. In an effort to cater to a wide range of dietary needs, Scitec Nutrition whey protein powders are also soy-free and gluten-free.

We love the way this protein shake tastes mixed in water or milk, but there is a chance the flavour profile could be a bit too sweet for some people. Additionally, it might not be the easiest to mix, and it possesses a strong odour that could be overwhelming if you have a sensitive nose.

Bulk Powders Pure (Best for Muscle Growth)

Bulk Powders Pure whey protein concentrate is our top pick for the best protein powder for muscle growth. It has a high protein content per serving paired with a high BCAA content to improve and sustain muscle growth in an effective and efficient way.

Features

Bulk Powders Pure whey protein powder is made from milk and sourced from grass-fed cows. It is made with 100% pure whey and contains 5 grams of BCAAs and 22 grams of protein per serving. Protein and amino acids aren’t the only way this protein powder encourages muscle growth, though. It is also low carb, low fat, low sugar, vegetarian, and soy-free to help you maintain your dietary goals and preferences.

We think Bulk Powders Pure whey protein powder mixes well in both milk and water with only about 30 seconds of shaking. Regardless of your taste, one of the 20 flavours offered by Bulk Powders should suit your style. In an effort to reduce single-use plastic and waste, Bulk Powders packages their whey protein powder in 100% plastic-free packaging, unless you purchase the extra-large 5kg container.

Bulk Powders Pure protein powder may not be the best choice for you if you have even the mildest of lactose intolerances. It is also possible that it will have a slight aftertaste and does not come with a scoop denoting an accurate serving portion size.

USN Hardcore Anabolic (Best with Creatine)

Next up on our best whey protein UK list is USN Hardcore Anabolic. USN Hardcore has 20 years of experience producing quality whey protein powders, and this blend features added creatine for a more well-rounded protein shake.

Features

This all in one muscle fuel contains protein from 5 different sources, BCAAs, and creatine. Each scoop contains 18 grams of protein, but USN Hardcore recommends making your shakes with three scoops to equal 55 grams of protein per serving. Aside from sustaining and building muscle, Anabolic whey protein powder also helps curb your appetite by making you feel full between meals.

As far as protein powders go, we think you will really like this product’s cookies and cream flavour. Another benefit is that it does not come with a warning advising against use by children under the age of 18, as many protein powders do. You can also rest assured if you have a lactose allergy or intolerance because even though it contains lactose, it also has added Tolerase to aid with digestion.

Regretfully, Anabolic whey protein powder is probably not suitable if you have a soy intolerance or allergy. We also think the packaging could benefit from a reduction in the overall size, and there are a few reports indicating that this option may upset weaker stomachs.

PhD Nutrition Diet (Best Low Calorie)

If you are looking to build lean muscle mass while simultaneously keeping your total body fat as low as possible, the PhD Nutrition Diet whey protein powder is our top recommendation. It has lots of added ingredients designed specifically to target and eliminate fat as well as has a low-calorie content overall.

Features

This protein powder is made from milk protein. Impressively, it only contains 91 total calories per serving to keep your diet on track. There are 3.3 grams of BCAAs and 18 grams of protein per serving to help sustain and advance muscle growth. A unique trait of this option is that it also has added L-Carnitine, CLA, and green tea extract to help increase fat burning capability after ingestion. Diet whey protein powder is also low in sugar, low fat, and low salt.

Diet whey protein powder comes in a variety of tasty flavours, and the vanilla creme is one of our favourites. This protein powder becomes a thick and creamy shake when mixed thoroughly, even if you only mix it with water. We also love that PhD Nutrition protein powders come in 100% recyclable packaging.

Keep in mind that Diet whey protein powder by PhD Nutrition could have a slightly chemical like aftertaste. It lacks the addition of L-Glutamine, which some people seek out specifically. Comparatively, it could also take a little more effort to mix thoroughly, but overall, we still think it makes an excellent low-calorie choice for most people.

Chocolate Silk 2kg Low Sugar (Best Mixable)

When it comes to mixing your protein shake, it shouldn’t take very long or take much effort, and with the Protein Works 80, that’s just what you’ll get. This award-winning whey protein also tastes great and contains a mixture of fast and slow-release proteins to bring help boost your workout all day long.

Features

The Protein Works 80 is made with 82% whey protein from five sources: whey isolate, whey concentrate, soy protein, hydrolysed whey protein, and milk protein from grass-fed cows. There are 20.6 grams of protein per serving as well as amino acids.

This gluten-free, low sugar concentrate and isolate whey protein comes in a variety of flavours, but our top pick is the chocolate silk option. Overall, it mixes super well and forms a creamy, delicious protein drink in a matter of moments.

Be aware, this option is not suitable for anyone with a nut allergy, and the flavours might be too sweet for some people. We recommend going for the unflavoured option when in doubt. Interestingly, some people even find this whey protein can be too thick, but we still like it overall.

Dymatize ISO 100 Hydrolyzed (Best Pure)

Dymatize ISO 100 Hydrolyzed is made from top quality, pure ingredients. Pure whey protein provides you with the best possible results when it comes to building and repairing muscle quickly, and this award-winning whey isolate formula promises to deliver.

Features

ISO 100 is a mixture of hydrolysed whey protein and whey isolate protein from milk. This mix of a pure isolate is quick digesting and provides you with an elevated protein content so you can get the most out of each and every shake you drink. Each serving contains 5.7 grams of BCAAs and 25 grams of protein.

We also recommend the ISO 100 whey protein powder if you are gluten-free or soy-free. You can choose from a variety of flavours, all of which mix up into a thick and frothy shake. We like the smooth banana mixed with milk. Rest assured, if you are contemplating using this formula in a professional manner, it has been Banned Substance Tested.

Potential drawbacks for ISO 100 include it possibly not mixing as easily, which is common with hydrolysed whey protein, and it potentially has a flavour that is too subtle for some people. Also, it is not lactose-free.

Pulsin Balanced Nutrition Dairy-Based (Best Unflavoured)

For anyone seeking a natural, unflavoured whey protein, Pulsin Balanced Nutrition Dairy-Based whey protein isolate is our top pick. This is also a great choice if you like mixing your protein powder great into food items.

Features

Pulsin Balanced Nutrition makes their diary-based whey protein with a 93% protein isolate content. It has 9.3 grams of protein per serving, but the serving sizes are only 10 grams, unlike the 30 grams in a normal serving size. The protein comes from UK cows that are grass-fed and hormone-free.

For any vegans out there, Pulsin makes several plant-based options as well. They make a fava bean, soy, pea, hemp, and rice-based protein supplement. Pulsin products contain no added sugar or sweeteners and are also low in fat. They are also gluten-free and palm oil-free in an effort to accommodate a wide variety of dietary needs and restrictions.

Regretfully, Pulsin Balanced Nutrition whey protein isolate could be too thick for some people’s preferences. In addition, it is not the best for mixing as a shake as it can rapidly become too thick, and of course, it is not ideal if you like a lot of flavour in your protein powder.  

Choosing the Best Whey Proteins: A Buyer’s Guide

So, how do you decide what the best whey protein powder for you is? Or the best protein powder for women is? The following sections explore some of the top traits we looked for when choosing our top 10. Pay attention to these traits when comparing whey proteins for your personal use.

Types of Whey Protein

For the most part, whey protein comes as either an isolate or a concentrate.

Isolated whey protein is also typically about 99% lactose-free.

A whey protein concentrate often contains more fats and carbohydrates than an isolate but is almost always less expensive.

Both whey protein isolate and concentrate can also come as hydrolysate protein. Hydrolysate protein is typically purer, allowing it to be absorbed and processed by your body at a significantly faster rate. When it comes to building muscle, this is ideal, but that’s why it can often be more expensive. Additionally, hydrolysate does not typically mix as well or taste as good, but considering the other benefits, many people find it worth it in the end.

Lastly, many top whey protein powders are made from milk; however, plant-based protein powder can also be found. Plant-based protein can be made from a variety of sources such as peas, soybeans, rice, hemp, and more. If you are vegan or lactose intolerant, always check the labelling to make sure you find something that won’t give you any unwanted side effects.

Amount of Protein and BCAAs

The two main things in a whey protein powder that contribute to building and repairing muscles are branched-chain amino acids and, of course, protein. That’s why we recommend paying attention to their content levels per serving when comparing and choosing a whey protein powder for yourself. BCAAs are better suited to reducing soreness and fatigue, but they also help build muscle, just like protein.

Calories

You may also want to pay attention to the total calorie content in a serving of whey protein powder. After all, you are trying to build muscle and possibly burn fat as well, right? Most whey proteins have about 100 calories per serving, but some go as high as 140 and as low as 85.

If you are counting calories, you may want to choose a whey protein powder that is low calorie to help you reach your goals easier and faster.

Flavour

Lastly, you want to choose a whey protein powder that is going to taste good. Luckily, protein powders are available in a number of flavours, some fruity and some rich and sweet. We tend to like the chocolate flavours the most, but pick a flavour that sounds good and try to experiment until you find the best one for your taste.

Benefits of Adding Whey Protein to Your Diet

There are many benefits associated with drinking whey protein shakes, so it is no wonder they are so popular amongst people who exercise and high-performance athletes alike.

When Should You Drink Whey Protein?

The best time to drink a protein shake is immediately after your workout. However, you can also receive a lot of the same benefits if you consume whey protein before your workout or first thing in the morning. Try all three out and see which option works best for you. Just keep in mind that many whey protein powders advise against consuming more than three servings per day.

The Best Whey Protein for You

After reading through our helpful buyer’s guide and best whey protein UK list, what do you think? Are you ready to start consuming whey protein on a regular basis? And, which protein supplement do you think would best help you build muscle mass and achieve your specific bodyweight goals?

Our favourite is On Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard whey protein isolate. This 100% whey protein comes from a reputable brand and contains 24 g of protein with 5.5 g BCAAs per serving to help promote lean muscle growth. It is available in a variety of tasty flavours that are low in sugar and fat and mixes into a thick creamy drink quite easily.

Let us know what you think in the comments below.

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