Think protein shakes are just for gym buffs and bodybuilders? Not anymore. These grab-and-go powerhouses have muscled their way into the daily routines of people looking to level up their nutrition. Packed with protein to support muscle repair, boost energy levels and keep you full between meals, the best protein shakes are a go-to choice for athletes, busy professionals and those looking to lose weight without constantly feeling hungry. With the global protein supplement market valued at over $25 billion and growing, it's clear that protein shakes are here to stay.
But why is boosting your protein intake worth the effort? While many people are familiar with protein's muscle-building benefits, it becomes even more critical as we age, with muscle mass naturally declining after age 40.
And the benefits don't stop with muscle building — protein is a weight-loss ally, too. It helps keep you full longer, making sticking to a calorie deficit easier and helps maintain lean body mass. With their convenience and versatility, protein shakes make hitting protein goals more manageable.
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To help you navigate the crowded protein shake market, our team tested 28 popular brands and flavors and consulted three registered dietitians to find the best protein shakes in 2025. Whether you're searching for plant-based, dairy or low-carb options, we've gathered the top choices based on flavor, nutritional profile, usability and overall value. Our firsthand testing will help you find a shake that fits your goals, tastes great and doesn't break the bank.
A note on supplements
The products included on this list are dietary supplements. Such supplements are regulated far less stringently by the FDA than medications, with little evaluation of safety or effectiveness before they go to market. Supplements may also interact with other medications and aren't appropriate for all populations or health conditions. While our health writers personally select and test products that are evidence-based, it's important to talk to your health care provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine.
Best overall protein shake
Sarah Glinski, RD
Protein per serving: 30 g | Protein source: Milk protein isolate and concentrate | Calories: 160 | Added Sugar: 0 g | Dietary Considerations: Soy-free, gluten-free, kosher, no artificial sweeteners or flavors
Whether you're seeking a post-workout lift or a nutritious snack, Orgain's Organic Chocolate Fudge-flavored protein shake delivers on all fronts thanks to its nutritional profile, taste and filling power. Each single-sized serving offers an impressive 30 grams of protein and 0 grams of added sugar. It also includes 40% of the daily value of calcium to support bone health.
During testing, the Chocolate Fudge flavor's rich, milkshake-like consistency and smooth texture won us over — though, it's definitely on the sweet side. Still, if you're a chocolate fan looking for a dessert-worthy post-workout shake, we're pretty confident you'll like this one.
Another bonus? This shake kept our testers feeling full for up to 3 hours, reducing between-meal grazing and providing sustained energy for afternoon productivity.
At roughly $3 per shake, it isn't cheap. However, the shake's quality and satisfaction factor make it well worth the price and a great choice for anyone looking for a convenient way to boost their protein intake.
Reviewers seem to agree, with over 7,000, 5-star reviews on Amazon. "To me, this is the best protein shake that you can purchase in a carton for a quick and convenient nutrition supplement or as a snack to hold you over to a meal. I really enjoy the flavor and the consistency of the product, and it seems to have very high-quality ingredients. Definitely holds me over till the next meal or is a quick breakfast solution when you don't have enough time," says one reviewer.
Looking for a protein shake that kids will love? We also enjoyed the Orgain Kid's Protein Organic Nutritional Shakes. The Vanilla flavor we sampled had a pleasant, mild taste that wasn't too sweet. It's also available in Chocolate, Fruity Cereal and Strawberry.
More protein shakes we like for 2025
Sarah Glinski, RD
Protein per serving: 20 g | Protein source: Brown rice, pea and chickpea | Calories: 180 | Added Sugar: 3 g added sugar | Dietary Considerations: Kosher, vegan, gluten-free, soy-free
Delivering 20 grams of plant-powered protein, Koia is our top pick if you're seeking a high-protein option without animal-derived ingredients. Sourced from brown rice, pea and chickpea protein, this vegan-friendly shake provides all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. It's also high in fiber, contains just 3 grams of added sugar and is fortified with 21 essential vitamins and minerals.
During testing, the Vanilla Bean stood out for its unique, cake batter-inspired flavor and mostly smooth consistency. We found it to be one of the easiest to digest, with no major side effects beyond a slightly sweet aftertaste. It was also very filling — our tester said it kept her full for two hours and helped cut back on snacking.
Reviewers seem to agree. One says, "This is the only shake that doesn't mess with my stomach at all. Nutrition facts are solid. I do the banana one. It's filling enough to tide me over when I don't eat breakfast and light enough to feel good after a hard workout."
At $3.67 per shake, it's one of the more expensive options we tested, but we think its exceptional quality justifies the splurge.
Not a fan of vanilla? No problem! The Cacao Bean and Chocolate Banana flavors scored highly with our testers and have positive reviews online.
Sarah Glinski, RD
Protein per serving: 30 g | Protein source: Ultra-filtered skim milk | Calories: 150 | Added Sugar: 0 g added sugar | Dietary Considerations: Lactose-free
Offering a substantial 30 grams of dairy-based protein per serving, Nurri Ultra-Filtered Milk Shake is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-protein, low-calorie option on a budget. Plus, with zero grams of added sugar, it's a good option for those looking to support muscle recovery without spiking blood sugar levels.
The shake also stands out for its inclusion of vitamins and minerals, including 25% of the DV for vitamin D, 60% of the DV for calcium and significant amounts of phosphorus, zinc and selenium — just keep in mind that because it's fortified, you might not want to pair this shake with a multivitamin.
Despite being dairy-based, the shake is lactose-free, making it easier on the digestive system and a good choice for those with lactose intolerance.
Tastewise, the shake has a nostalgic chocolate milk flavor, making it ideal for a wide audience and a creamy, slightly thicker texture that felt like a post-workout indulgence. While chocolate is currently the only flavor available, vanilla and strawberry flavors are on the horizon. As with many of our other top picks, the shake kept us full for about two hours and curbed between-meal cravings
At just $2.25 per serving (available in a 12-pack at Costco), it's a great value for its quality and performance.
Sarah Glinski, RD
Protein per serving: 30 g | Protein source: Grass-fed dairy (milk protein concentrate and calcium caseinate) | Calories: 180 | Added Sugar: 2 g sugar/0 g added sugar | Dietary Considerations: No artificial sweeteners or colors, no added sugars, keto-friendly
Jocko Mölk Chocolate Protein Shake is everything a chocolate lover dreams of in a protein shake, but without the usual pitfalls. Its flavor hits all the right notes, balancing rich cocoa goodness with just enough sweetness. Unlike many other chocolate shakes that veer too far into the too sweet category, this one feels grown-up and refined.
The slightly sweet aftertaste faded quickly, leaving behind a smooth, creamy texture that was free from any grittiness or chalkiness — making it feel almost like an indulgent chocolate milkshake. On top of that, it kept hunger at bay for over three hours, outperforming many of the other chocolate protein shakes we tried.
Each serving provides 30 grams of high-quality protein from grass-fed dairy. At 180 calories, 4.5 grams of fat, 2 grams of naturally occurring sugar and no added sugar, it's keto-friendly and a good choice for those looking to manage blood sugar levels. It's also free from artificial sweeteners or colors, relying on natural sugar alternatives, including monk fruit and fermented cane sugar.
As one Amazon reviewer sums it up, "Jocko NAILS the chocolate flavor, for my tastes. This could pass for delicious chocolate milk, but also has good numbers. Love it."
Priced at $64 for a 12-pack ($5.33 per shake), it's one of the priciest protein shakes we sampled. However, the rich flavor and high protein content help justify the cost for those seeking a premium option.
We also tried Jocko Mölk in Sweet Cream Coffee and Banana Cream flavors. Our tester wasn't a fan of the Banana Cream, which had a somewhat artificial taste, while the Sweet Cream Coffee was a tad too sweet for our liking.
Sarah Glinski, RD
Protein per serving: 40 g | Protein source: Milk protein concentrate, whey protein concentrate | Calories: 190 | Added Sugar: 0 g added sugar | Dietary Considerations: Informed-Sport Certified
Love vanilla? Look no further than GNC Wheybolic 40 Performance Protein Shake. Essentially a milkshake in a box — but with a healthier nutrition profile — the shake has a classic vanilla flavor and thick, creamy consistency that you'll look forward to drinking. There is a slight artificial aftertaste, but we didn't find that it detracted from the overall enjoyment.
With 40 grams of protein per container, it's the highest protein option we tested, making it a good choice for athletes and weekend warriors. Speaking of which, this shake is also certified by Informed Sport, a third-party testing organization that ensures products are free from substances banned by most competitive sports organizations.
Thanks to its high protein content, the shake kept us full for over three hours, helping bridge the gap between lunch and dinner.
Priced at $50 for a 12-pack ($4.16 per shake), it isn't cheap. However, its high protein content and enjoyable taste make it worth the investment.
Sarah Glinski, RD
Protein per serving: 24 g | Protein source: Milk protein isolate, milk protein concentrate, whey protein concentrate, calcium caseinate | Calories: 130 | Added Sugar: 0 g added sugar | Dietary Considerations: Gluten-free
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Protein Shake is a nostalgia trip in a bottle. With a flavor that mirrors the classic strawberry milk of childhood, it delivers a deliciously sweet, creamy experience that feels like a treat rather than a health kick. The strawberry flavor is enjoyable without being overpowering, and the silky-smooth texture ensures every sip is as satisfying as the last with no chalkiness or grit.
What truly sweetens the deal? The price. At roughly $24 for a 12-pack (around $2 per shake), it’s one of the most wallet-friendly options we tested, proving that great taste and quality don't have to come with a premium price tag.
And we're not alone in feeling love for this pink drink. One 5-star reviewer writes, "Love these protein shakes. Perfect for on-the-go or after a workout. The strawberry flavor tastes like strawberry Nesquik! It’s not chalky and doesn’t leave a bad aftertaste."
We also appreciated the nutritional profile of this shake. Each serving provides 24 grams of protein from high-quality protein sources, including milk protein isolate and whey protein concentrate. It's also on the lower end for calories and fat and free of added sugars, making it a good option if you're looking to satisfy your sweet tooth without spiking blood sugar levels. It also provides 24 key vitamins and minerals to help you meet your micronutrient needs.
The biggest downside? It didn't keep us full as long as the other shakes we tried. Around the two-hour mark, we found ourselves in need of a snack.
Sarah Glinski, RD
Protein per serving: 10 g | Protein source: Whey protein isolate | Calories: 50 | Added Sugar: 0 g sugar | Dietary Considerations: Keto-friendly, gluten-free, lactose-free, Kosher, carbon-neutral
PWR Lift in Berry Strawberry delivers a refreshing, fruity strawberry taste, making it perfect for those who want a protein boost that feels more like a crisp sports drink than a meal replacement. Plus, at only 50 calories per serving, it's a great choice for anyone looking for a low-calorie option.
The texture of PWR Lift was another standout feature. Its thin, smooth consistency was similar to water or a sports drink, with no chalkiness or grittiness. It's also keto-friendly and carbon-neutral, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a more sustainable and performance-oriented drink. While it doesn't keep you full for very long due to its low-calorie content, it provides added electrolytes for hydration and a great taste, making it an ideal post-workout drink. In fact, our tester's husband enjoyed it so much that he's since incorporated it into his ongoing workout routine.
We did note some slight bloating after drinking it, but this went away after about half an hour.
At around $2.33 per drink, it's also reasonably priced compared to some other protein shakes we reviewed. Reviewers love it, too. One Amazon customer says, "I love the taste of the different flavors. It's great value for the money. It doesn't have any smell. It's smooth on the stomach."
Another bonus? PWR Lift is available in Lemon Lime, Blueberry Pomegranate and Orange Mango, providing flavors for every palate.
Sarah Glinski, RD
Protein per serving: 20 g | Protein source: Grass-fed whey protein isolate | Calories: 100 | Added Sugar: 0 g added sugar | Dietary Considerations: Soy-free, no artificial ingredients, contains digestive enzymes and prebiotics
Clean Simple Eats in Cake Batter flavor earned our top spot for the powder category thanks to its unbeatable combination of taste, texture and quality. Unlike many protein powders that either fall flat on flavor or overwhelm with artificial sweetness, this one perfectly mimics the creamy, sweet essence of real cake batter. It's versatile enough to mix seamlessly with water for convenience, but we found it truly shines when blended with milk or plant-based beverages for a rich, creamy shake.
Speaking of texture, we were impressed by how effortlessly it mixed, even in a basic shaker bottle. Free of any chalky or gritty residue, the smooth consistency made it stand out from other protein powders we tried.
Each serving delivers 20 grams of high-quality protein from grass-fed whey protein isolate to support muscle recovery and keep you full until your next meal. The inclusion of a digestive enzyme and prebiotic blend adds an extra layer of appeal by supporting gut health and making the powder easier to digest.
Affordability rounds out its appeal. At about $60 for 30 servings (about $2 per serving), Clean Simple Eats delivers excellent value for a product that's third-party tested for purity and potency — meaning you can trust that the contents match the label.
Before adding this powder to your shopping cart, keep in mind that digestive enzymes can interact with certain medications, so you may want to run this one by a health care professional if you have any concerns.
Sarah Glinski, RD
Protein per serving: 21 g | Protein source: Pea, brown rice, chia | Calories: 145 | Added Sugar: 0 g sugar | Dietary Considerations: Organic, vegan, soy-free, gluten-free, no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
Whether you're whipping up a smoothie or sneaking in extra protein, Nutrilite Organics Plant Protein Powder in Chocolate is a high-quality choice for plant-based eaters who want a powder with minimal ingredients at a budget-friendly price. The rich chocolate flavor helps mask the earthiness that's common with vegan-friendly powders, and the texture, while slightly chalky, was smooth enough to be enjoyable. That said, it isn't a shake you'd want to sip plain with water. Instead, we highly recommend blending it with a frozen banana or some almond milk, transforming it into a thick, creamy treat.
What truly sets it apart is its thoughtful ingredient list and nutrition stats. Each 145-calorie serving packs 21 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber and 0 grams of sugar. For plant-based eaters, the inclusion of 36% of your daily iron needs, 12% of zinc and 25% of selenium is a major win, especially since these micronutrients can be tricky to get on a vegan diet. The ingredient list is impressively short and free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives.
This powder kept us full for up to three hours, making it perfect for busy mornings or after a session at the gym. Plus, at $41 for 15 servings (about $2.73 per serving) — with a generous return policy — it offers good value for its quality and versatility.
Types of protein shakes
Whether you're looking to support your weight loss efforts or help maintain muscle mass as you age, there's a protein shake to suit virtually any health goal. Here's a breakdown of the most common types:
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Whey-based: Derived from dairy milk, whey protein is a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. Whey protein is quickly absorbed, making it ideal for post-workout recovery and muscle building.
Plant-based: Made from plant-based sources like pea, rice, soy or chia, these shakes are a good option for those with lactose intolerance or following a vegan diet. While some vegan protein sources, like soy and pea, contain all nine amino acids, many plant-based formulations include a combination of protein sources to provide a complete amino acid profile.
Meal replacement: Designed to offer balanced nutrition, these shakes typically include protein, fiber, healthy fats, carbs and essential vitamins and minerals. Because they're higher in calories than a regular protein shake, these products can be a good option if you're looking to replace a meal or have higher calorie needs.
Low-carb: With minimal carbs and added sugars, these shakes cater to those following keto or low-carb diets.
High-protein: With at least 25 grams of protein per serving, these shakes are ideal for athletes, bodybuilders or anyone with increased protein needs.
Organic: Often certified by the USDA, these shakes feature mostly organic ingredients and often exclude artificial sweeteners, flavors and preservatives.
Diabetes-friendly: Specially formulated to stabilize blood sugar levels, these shakes are typically low in carbs and sugar and often include fiber for additional blood sugar support.
So, which one is right for you? The decision ultimately comes down to your dietary preferences, health goals, budget and lifestyle. If you're unsure which type to choose, consider working with a dietitian for personalized advice.
Factors to consider when purchasing protein shakes
Several factors can guide you in choosing the best protein shake. Here are a few tips from our experts:
Protein content: Plant-based and diabetes nutrition expert Vandana Sheth, RDN, CDCES, FAND, recommends choosing a shake that provides 15–30 grams of protein, preferably from high-quality sources like whey, casein, peas or soy.
Sugar and sweeteners: Sheth also recommends choosing a shake with no more than 5–10 grams of added sugar per serving. Alyssa Pacheco, registered dietitian and founder of PCOS Nutritionist Alyssa, adds that while artificial sweeteners can lower calories and sugar, they may not work for everyone. "Some people may be sensitive to these sweeteners," she says. She recommends protein shakes sweetened with stevia or monk fruit extract if you prefer to avoid artificial options.
Vitamins and minerals: Some shakes are fortified with extra vitamins and minerals. While this isn't necessarily bad, Pacheco cautions that combining fortified shakes with multivitamins or supplements could lead to excessive nutrient intake.
Calorie count: Ryann Jung, a dietitian at Nutrition with Ryann, recommends choosing a protein shake with fewer than 200 calories, especially if you drink it as a snack or a post-workout supplement. That said, if you have higher calorie needs or are looking for a meal replacement, a shake with 250 calories or more might be more appropriate.
Taste and variety: The effectiveness of a protein shake often depends on consistency, so it's important to choose a shake that you'll enjoy drinking. To keep your taste buds on their toes, look for products available in several flavors.
Dietary needs: Before buying a shake, flip it over and scan the nutrition list carefully to see if it fits with your health goals. For example, if you're trying to gain muscle, opt for a product with 20-30 grams of protein. Trying to lose weight? Look for a shake that's high in protein but low in calories. Finally, if you follow a specific diet, such as vegan or gluten-free, check the ingredient list to make sure the product is compatible.
Cost per serving: Affordability is key, especially if you plan to use protein shakes long-term. While price isn't always an indication of quality, cheaper products often cut corners with ingredients. Look for a product containing high-quality ingredients that fits your budget.
How we chose protein shakes
Creating this list involved rigorous hands-on testing and expert consultation to ensure we identified the top protein shakes on the market. We carefully reviewed 28 different protein shakes, evaluating them based on:
Protein content: Does it deliver enough protein to meet dietary needs?
Protein source: Is the protein high-quality and suitable for various diets?
Nutritional profile: Does it provide a balanced mix of nutrients with minimal added sugar?
Flavor: Is it enjoyable without being overly sweet or imparting an unpleasant aftertaste?
Texture: Is it smooth and drinkable without being chalky or gritty?
Digestibility: Does it sit well and cause minimal digestive discomfort?
Satiety: How long does it keep you full?
Impact on eating habits: Does it support healthy eating patterns?
Overall enjoyment: Would we want to drink this shake regularly?
Price: Is it reasonably priced for the quality and value it offers?
This comprehensive approach allowed us to identify protein shakes that excelled in flavor, performance and affordability.
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In addition to hands-on testing, we consulted three registered dietitians to better understand what to look for in a protein shake and how to choose one based on various health goals. Our lead tester, a registered dietitian herself, brought her professional expertise to the evaluation process and helped answer common questions about protein shakes.
The result? A carefully curated list of the best protein shakes for 2025 that delivers on taste, nutrition and value for every lifestyle.
FAQs
How many protein shakes is it OK to drink per day?
Sheth, Pacheco and Jung all agree on the importance of getting protein from diverse sources and prioritizing whole foods whenever possible. Sheth suggests limiting protein shakes to one or two daily. However, this recommendation can vary depending on your protein needs, age, activity level and health goals.
For personalized guidance, Sheth advises consulting a dietitian who can help determine the appropriate number of shakes for your needs and health goals.
Are ready-made protein shakes good for weight loss?
"Ready-to-drink protein shakes can be good for weight loss," says Pacheco, "and protein is an important macronutrient if weight loss is your goal." She explains that protein can decrease the amount of ghrelin — a hormone that increases appetite — while increasing the amount of peptide YY, a hormone that reduces appetite.
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Essentially, protein can help with weight loss by keeping you full on fewer calories. Pacheco notes that protein also stabilizes blood sugar levels, which further helps increase satiety and curb hunger.
What is the difference between meal replacement shakes and protein shakes?
"As the name suggests, meal replacement shakes are designed to provide balanced nutrition in terms of carbs, protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals to make them an option for a meal," says Sheth, "whereas protein shakes mainly focus on the protein content and are meant to supplement — not replace — meals."
How long do ready-made protein shakes last after opening?
Sheth and Pacheco recommend storing opened ready-made protein shakes in the fridge and drinking them within 24 to 48 hours, unless otherwise specified on the product packaging.
Other products we tested
Not every protein shake we tried shook out on top. Here are the ones that fell short. (Sarah Glinski, RD)
While these protein shakes didn’t make our top picks, they could still be a good option for you, depending on your specific needs and preferences. Here’s a look at the other contenders:
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Clean Simple Eats Clear Protein: In addition to protein powder, Clean Simple Eats' product lineup includes a protein water containing 20 grams of protein from grass-fed whey isolate. We sampled the Blue Razz flavor and found the milky undertone too hard to ignore. Our tester said it tasted like a mix of milk powder and blue raspberry juice crystals, which wasn't exactly refreshing. However, her husband couldn't taste the milkiness at all, so this one may come down to personal preference.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey: ON's Gold Standard Whey is a staple in the sports supplement world. The powder is affordable, easy to find and available in more than 20 flavors. The Thin Mint flavor was a hit with our testers, with the biggest drawback being that the minty taste makes it harder to use in fruit-based smoothies. Still, if you're a fan of the classic Girls Scouts cookie, this powder is one to try.
Premier Protein Shakes: Another product that's widely available, Premier Protein Shakes are high in protein and available in a variety of dessert-inspired flavors. We sampled the Caramel shake, which we found to be too sweet on its own — though it made for a fantastic coffee creamer. The shake's ingredient list is on the longer side and includes artificial additives. Still, if you're looking for a way to sweeten your morning coffee with less sugar, Premier Protein Shakes are worth considering.
Slate High Protein Milkshake: We tried several flavors of this lactose-free shake, including Classic Chocolate, French Vanilla and Mocha Latte. While we enjoyed the milk-like texture, the shakes had a distinctly sweet aftertaste that we didn't love, and they lacked the filling power that many of our top picks provide.
Mikuna Superfood Protein Powder: This plant-based protein powder stood out for its minimal ingredient list, complete amino acid profile and high fiber content. While the Vanilla had a pleasant, mild vanilla flavor, we found the powder a bit too earthy and gritty to be our top pick.
GNC Wheybolic: We tried GNC Wheybolic in Chocolate but found it too sweet and thick. There were other chocolate-flavored shakes that we preferred to this one.
Kailo Look Well Collagen: This 6-in-1 berry-flavored powder contains collagen, greens, antioxidants, B vitamins, vitamin C and zinc. While it might be worth the splurge if you're looking for a more comprehensive nutritional supplement, it didn't keep us full for long and had a distinct "grassy" flavor, making it hard to justify the high cost.
Prolon L-Protein: Another contender for best plant-based powder, we were disappointed by the powder's earthy flavor and gritty, chalky consistency. It was also one of the most expensive vegan-friendly powders we tried.
Meet our experts
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
