The 16 Best-Tasting Protein Powders of 2024, According to Editors

Discover the best-tasting protein powders for every preference and need, from whey to plant-based, with detailed flavor notes, mixing tips, and expert insights.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 28, 2025

Discover the best-tasting protein powders for every preference and need, from whey to plant-based, with detailed flavor notes, mixing tips, and expert insights.

Protein powders are a staple in the world of modern nutrition and fitness, prized for their convenience and ability to help meet daily protein goals. But with so many options crowding shelves—from classics like whey to innovative, plant-based blends—the choice can be overwhelming. Even more challenging: finding a powder you’ll actually look forward to drinking! To cut through the noise, our editors sampled and thoroughly evaluated over 40 protein powders to uncover the absolute best-tasting options for every palate, dietary preference, and lifestyle. Whether you crave a chocolatey treat, need something unflavored for versatile use, or follow a plant-based diet, our comprehensive guide spotlights the most delicious varieties available in 2024.

How We Chose and Tested the Best-Tasting Protein Powders

To ensure our recommendations reflect authentic taste, mixability, and overall experience, our team of editors conducted hands-on taste tests across a wide range of brands and protein sources. Each powder was mixed according to package instructions with standard bases (water, milk, or non-dairy alternatives) and assessed for:

Flavor – Naturalness, sweetness, and aftertaste
Texture and Mixability – Creaminess, chalkiness, and ease of blending
Protein Content – Grams of protein per serving
Sweeteners and Additives – Artificial or natural, and any notable dietary exclusions
Price and Availability

Read on for our editor-approved picks—organized by flavor, dietary needs, and protein source—plus pro tips to improve your protein shake experience.

Best Overall Tasting Protein Powder

Legion Whey+ Isolate Protein Powder (French Vanilla)

Protein source: Grass-fed whey protein isolate
Protein per serving: 22 g
Sweeteners: Stevia & OvaSweet – no artificial sweeteners

Our top pick, Legion Whey+, stood out for its natural, creamy French Vanilla flavor. Tasters described it as “sweet but not overbearing,” with a pleasant aftertaste that felt authentic and satisfying. The powder is lactose free and made from grass-fed dairy, giving it a clean nutritional profile. The big caveat: it mixes best with a blender, as stirring or shaking may leave some undissolved clumps. If taste is your priority and you can use a blender, Legion Whey+ ranks as the best-tasting choice on the market.

Pros: Excellent flavor, high-quality ingredients, third-party tested
Cons: Pricey, may clump without thorough blending

Best-Tasting Unflavored Protein Powders

Promix Grass-Fed Whey Protein, Unflavored

Protein source: Grass-fed whey concentrate
Protein per serving: 25 g
Sweeteners: None

This two-ingredient, unsweetened powder is an ideal base for smoothies, oatmeal, or yogurt. It was praised for its ultra-fine texture, minimal flavor impact, and slight natural vanilla notes. Blends seamlessly, enhancing the creaminess of foods without overpowering them.

Isopure Zero Carb Unflavored Protein

Protein source: Whey protein isolate
Protein per serving: 25 g
Sweeteners: None

Isopure offers exceptional neutrality, with no significant graininess or aftertaste. Its carb- and lactose-free formula makes it a smart pick for those with lactose intolerance or anyone wanting to boost protein intake without added flavors or carbs. Excellent for adding to recipes or baked goods.

Best-Tasting Chocolate Protein Powders

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey, Double Rich Chocolate

Protein source: Whey protein isolate and concentrate
Protein per serving: 24 g
Sweeteners: Acesulfame potassium (artificial)

Tasters raved about its authentic chocolate milk flavor—rich, smooth, and satisfying, with no unpleasant aftertaste. Blended with real cocoa, it’s an outstanding pick for chocolate lovers who want both taste and a solid protein punch. Contains more than five grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) per serving to support muscle recovery.

KOS Organic Plant Protein, Chocolate

Protein source: Pea, flax, quinoa, pumpkin seed, chia seed
Protein per serving: 20 g
Sweeteners: Coconut sugar, stevia, monk fruit

For plant-based eaters, the KOS blend delivers a rich, balanced chocolate flavor accented by hints of coconut and sea salt. Sweetened naturally, it includes two grams of coconut sugar per serving and provides extra nutrition from whole food extracts and added vitamins.

Best-Tasting Vanilla Protein Powders

Cellucor Whey Sport Vanilla Protein Powder

Protein source: Whey protein isolate and concentrate
Protein per serving: 30 g
Sweeteners: Sucralose

This powder stood out for its sweet, smooth vanilla flavor reminiscent of cupcakes or milkshakes. It blended easily, even with milk alone, making it a convenient option for quick shakes. At 30 grams per serving, it packs one of the highest protein doses on this list.

Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+

Protein source: Pea protein
Protein per serving: 20 g
Sweeteners: Reb-m (from fermented sugarcane), monk fruit

One of the creamiest plant-based options tested, Ritual’s formula impressed tasters with a subtle, cake batter-like vanilla flavor and a smooth, non-gritty mouthfeel. With a clean ingredient list and MCT oil for added energy, it’s a great choice for active individuals on a plant-based diet.

Best Vegan and Plant-Based Protein Powders

KOS Organic Plant Protein, Chocolate

(See Chocolate section above; also a vegan favorite.)

Other Top Plant-Based Picks

Promix Vegan Protein Powder — Best for clean label, with natural vanilla bean flavor and pea protein base.
Ritual Essential Protein 18+ — Outstanding mixability, cake-batter vanilla flavor, plant-based and allergen-friendly.

Plant-based protein powders have improved tremendously in flavor and texture. The best varieties now rival whey for creaminess and taste, making them easy to incorporate into your diet.

Other Noteworthy Best-Tasting Protein Powders

Ghost Whey Protein (Cereal Milk) — Unique, nostalgic flavor with high mixability for fun-loving palates.
Truvani Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder — Smooth texture and creative flavors like banana cinnamon.
Orgain Organic Protein Powder — Affordable, family-friendly pick with variety of crowd-pleasing flavors.
Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Protein — Athletic formula with tart cherry for muscle recovery and a balanced vanilla flavor.
Blessed Plant Protein — Creamy, subtle flavors with low sugar and no dairy, soy, or gluten.

Frequently Asked Questions About Protein Powder

What makes a protein powder taste good?

The best-tasting protein powders use natural or well-balanced sweeteners, don’t leave a gritty or chalky texture, and mimic the flavors they advertise (like “chocolate milk” or “vanilla cupcake”) without artificial aftertastes. Mixing method also matters—blenders generally yield the creamiest results.

Can I use protein powder in recipes other than shakes?

Absolutely. Many protein powders, especially unflavored or mildly flavored ones, can be mixed into oatmeal, yogurt, pancakes, muffins, energy bites, and more for an extra protein boost.

Is whey protein suitable for people with lactose intolerance?

Whey isolate powders, such as Isopure Zero Carb, typically contain very little lactose and can be tolerated by many who are sensitive. Always check product details or consult with a healthcare professional first if you are highly lactose intolerant.

Are plant-based protein powders as effective as animal-based ones?

Plant-based protein powders can be just as effective for most people, provided they offer a complete amino acid profile (or blend several sources). They are also suitable for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone with dairy allergies or intolerances.

How can I make protein shakes taste better?

Use a blender for extra creaminess and to eliminate any clumps.
Add ingredients like frozen berries, cocoa powder, nut butter, or cinnamon for enhanced flavors.
Use milk or a plant-based milk alternative instead of water for richer texture and flavor.

How to Choose the Best Tasting Protein Powder

With so many formulations and flavor profiles, consider the following when choosing your protein powder:

Protein source: Whey (fast-digesting and creamy), casein (slow-digesting), or plant-based (allergen-friendly, sustainable).
Sweeteners: Natural (stevia, monk fruit, coconut sugar) or artificial (sucralose, acesulfame potassium).
Dietary needs: Vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, lactose-free, non-GMO, etc.
Texture: Look for reviews mentioning “no chalkiness” or “blends creamy.”
Intended use: If you want versatility, opt for unflavored or vanilla. For treats, try specialty flavors like chocolate, cinnamon, or cookies & cream.

Quick Guide: Best-Tasting Protein Powders by Category

Category	Top Pick	Protein Per Serving	Type
Best Overall Flavor	Legion Whey+ (French Vanilla)	22g	Whey Isolate
Best Unflavored	Promix Grass-Fed Whey	25g	Whey Concentrate
Best Chocolate	Optimum Nutrition Double Rich Chocolate	24g	Whey Blend
Best Vegan	KOS Organic Plant Protein (Chocolate)	20g	Plant Blend
Best Vanilla	Cellucor Whey Sport Vanilla	30g	Whey Blend
Best for Smoothies	Isopure Zero Carb Unflavored	25g	Whey Isolate
Best Low Sugar	Ritual Essential Protein 18+	20g	Pea Protein

Final Tips for Getting the Most From Your Protein Powder

Always check the ingredient list for artificial sweeteners or allergens.
If you’re sensitive to taste or texture, sample single-serve packets before committing to a large tub.
Rotate flavors to prevent palate fatigue and maximize long-term enjoyment.
Store powders in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and flavor.

Where to Buy the Best-Tasting Protein Powders

Most major brands are available online via Amazon, retailer websites, and specialty health food shops. For specialty flavors, check directly with the manufacturer. Watch for sales or subscription discounts if you find a favorite.

FAQs: The Best-Tasting Protein Powders

Q: What’s the difference between whey concentrate and isolate?

A: Whey isolate undergoes additional processing to remove most fat and lactose, making it higher in protein and easier to digest for those with lactose sensitivity. Whey concentrate is less processed, retaining some natural fats and carbs, and often delivering richer flavor.

Q: Can I use protein powder if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

A: Many protein powders are safe for most healthy adults, but ingredients and nutritional needs may change during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.

Q: How much protein do I actually need?

A: Requirements vary based on age, sex, activity, and overall dietary intake. A typical guideline is 0.36 grams per pound of body weight for general health, with higher needs for athletes or those with specific fitness goals. Consult a registered dietitian for personalized advice.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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