The 8 best protein powders for weight loss in 2024, according to experts

Why we like Gainful Protein Powder as best unflavored

Gainful Protein Powder is unlike any of the other protein powders on our list. With Gainful, you get the mix, match, and modify your protein formula, giving your body exactly what it needs. This includes an unflavored option that’s customized to your goals, making the list of the best unflavored protein powders for weight loss.

Protein is a critical component of many weight loss programs, as it supports muscle maintenance while helping to manage hunger. (7) Gainful’s weight loss formula is a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake without adding extra carbs or unnecessary ingredients.

The specialized protein formula uses whey protein isolate for protein, keeping carbs low and protein high. It uses medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil powder and sunflower lecithin to increase fat. MCT oil is a type of saturated fat that’s easier to absorb than other fats. However, it can have unpleasant side effects like abdominal pain, gas, vomiting, or diarrhea. (8)  

Check out our best low-carb protein powders for more low-carb options.

Though this formula is unflavored, Gainful has single-serving flavor boosters you can add to protein shakes. Depending on the flavor,  adding a booster to your keto-friendly protein shake increases carbs by 1 to 2 grams. 

“This protein was easiest to mix using an electric mixer bottle. It didn’t appear to stick on the side of the cup or float on the top. There was a bit of foam left on the top, but it mixed well,” explained our tester. 

In addition to customized protein powders, Gainful gives customers free access to registered dietitians for expert guidance on their health journey. However, “free” access to dietitians kind of explains the high price of this protein powder. At $3.21 per serving, Gainful Protein Powder is one of the more expensive choices on our list.

Though we appreciate the use of natural ingredients and access to experts, Gainful lost points since it lacks third-party testing.

Check out our full Gainful review to learn more.

What to consider

Though we appreciate the use of natural ingredients and access to experts, Gainful lost points since it lacks third-party testing. If you don’t care about getting access to Gainful’s dietitians, this price point might be a little high for protein powder. You should also note there are only 14 servings per package, so if you make a daily shake, you’ll run out in just two weeks.

What customers are saying

Most Trustpilot reviewers like Gainful Protein Powder. They say it’s easy to mix and doesn’t taste chalky.

Anjie L. says, “I enjoy the subtle flavor of the mixes alone as they are (usually with soy or coconut milk), but sometimes like to play with a flavor boost.”

Verified buyer Ian G. likes Gainful’s transparency and knowing exactly what’s in the supplement. 

Most complaints centered around shipping and subscriptions. Tricia K. was unhappy that shipping took 9 business days, and Kristina P. didn’t like that she was charged for a second order when she selected the one-time purchase option.

Specs

Why we like Nutricost Organic Pea Protein Isolate as best organic

Nutricost Organic Pea Protein Isolate is a one-ingredient protein powder, earning our pick for the best organic protein powder. One serving provides 20 grams of protein and only 100 calories. It’s also low in fat and carbs and provides 30% of the daily value for iron. 

Peas are a legume naturally rich in protein, fiber, and other nutrients. Manufacturers make pea protein from yellow peas by separating the starch and other nutrients from the protein, creating a protein-rich powder. (9) Pea protein isolate is further processed, removing most of the carbohydrates to create a powder with a higher concentration of protein.

According to research, plant proteins—like pea protein—offer many health benefits like keeping you full, maintaining energy, and lowering cholesterol. (10)  

But how can pea protein help with weight loss? While research is limited, a small study found that pea protein had the same effect on appetite and metabolism as whey protein. (11) Though more research is needed, pea protein isolate seems to provide similar weight-loss benefits as whey protein, especially when total daily protein needs are met, which are higher for people managing their calories and exercising to lose weight and/or lean out.

Nutricost’s plant protein is certified USDA organic and made sustainably without harmful pesticides or fertilizers. (12) It’s also gluten-free and third-party tested.

At $0.43 a serving, the organic pea protein powder is a great value and the cheapest protein powder on our list. However, Nutricost Organic Pea Protein Isolate only comes unflavored. This might give you more freedom in creating your own flavors, or you may want a protein powder that only needs water or plant milk.  

One downside of Nutricost’s supplement is that pea protein powder has a beany smell and bitter flavor that some people find off-putting. Instead of drinking it in a shake, try adding it to savory dishes like soup, casseroles, and tofu. Nutricost Organic Pea Protein Isolate is a simple, inexpensive, plant-based protein made from organic ingredients, which is why we believe it’s one of the best. However, none of this matters if you don’t like the taste.

Check out our full Nutricost protein review for more information.

What to consider

One downside of Nutricost’s supplement is that pea protein powder has a beany smell and bitter flavor that some people find off-putting. Instead of drinking it in a shake, try adding it to savory dishes like soup, casseroles, and tofu. Nutricost Organic Pea Protein Isolate is a simple, inexpensive, plant-based protein made from organic ingredients, which is why we believe it’s one of the best. However, none of this matters if you don’t like the taste.

What customers are saying

Customers who buy Nutricost Organic Pea Protein Isolate say they like the price, protein quality, and taste. 

Donny D., a verified Amazon shopper, notes it’s “cheaper than other popular brands with good ingredients.” Donny says the taste isn’t great and recommends blending it with a banana.

Amazon shopper WCP writes, “This protein powder is much less gritty and icky tasting than any other one I tried.”

Specs

Why we like Ka’Chava Nutrition Shake as best meal replacement

The makers of Ka’Chava Nutrition Shake designed the meal replacement drink to fit busy lives. It’s a delicious, high-protein, plant-based drink made from all-natural ingredients rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. The multinutrient shake also contains prebiotics and probiotics to support gut health and chia seeds and flaxseeds for fiber and omega-3s. 

One serving, two scoops of powder, has 240 calories, 25 grams of protein, 21–25 grams of carbs, and 7–8 grams of fat. It also supplies more than 50% of the daily value for many vitamins and minerals like vitamins A and E, folate, magnesium, zinc, and selenium.

It’s also an excellent source of vitamin B12, a nutrient only found in meat products and difficult to obtain on a vegan diet. (13) One serving of the Ka’Chava nutrition shake is also an excellent source of calcium, iron, and fiber. 

The protein in the meal replacement shake comes from a plant-based protein blend consisting of yellow pea protein, organic whole grain brown rice protein, organic sacha inchi (a seed), organic amaranth, and organic quinoa.

“I preferred mixing this in milk because of how it mixed and it kind of tasted like a milkshake,” said one of our testers. “[The milk] also masked the artificial taste. I think 10 ounces is the correct amount of liquid to mix with. There is little to no grit.”

Meal replacement shakes are an effective weight-loss tool. (14) They help keep calories in check and relieve the stress of figuring out what to eat. 

Though Ka’Chava shakes are an excellent source of essential nutrients, the makers recommend not using them to replace every meal but one or two. Replacing some of your meals with a nutrient-rich shake helps you feel more in control over your eating while giving you an opportunity to create healthy eating habits that lead to long-term weight management. (14) 

Ka’Chava nutrition shakes come in five flavors: chocolate, vanilla, coconut acai, chai, and matcha. Each bag has 15 servings, so if you’re replacing one meal a day, you may need at least two bags a month.

At $4.67 a serving, Ka’Chava is pricey. But they have a subscribe and save program, lowering the price to $4.00 a serving with a standing monthly order.

The meal replacement weight loss shake is made in a plant that processes wheat, milk, and soy. So this wholesome meal replacement may not work if you’re allergic to any of these foods.

Check out our full Ka’Chava Nutrition Shake review for more information.

What to consider

At $4.67 a serving, Ka’Chava is pricey. But they have a subscribe and save program, lowering the price to $4.00 a serving with a standing monthly order.

The meal replacement weight loss shake contains coconut and is made in a plant that processes wheat, milk, and soy. So this wholesome meal replacement may not work if you’re allergic to any of these foods. 

What customers are saying

Customers like the taste, convenience, and nutrition of Ka’Chava but are unsure about the price. 

On Amazon, verified buyer Jon S. said it tastes great and mixes well with plant milk but is too expensive. 

Yabba Dabba, another verified purchaser on Amazon, says, “I am thoroughly impressed with its effectiveness. Not only does it keep hunger at bay, but it also provides a noticeable boost in energy.” 

Not everyone likes the taste of the nutrition shake, however. Crystal C. writes that it’s too thick and has an unpleasant aftertaste.

Specs

Why we like Ritual Essential Protein Shake as best vegan

We selected Ritual as the best vegan protein powder for weight loss because of its nutrition profile, added amino acids for muscle growth, and supply chain transparency. One serving of Ritual Essential Protein has 20 grams of protein, 3 grams of carbs, 2 grams of fat, and 115 calories. 

This vegan protein powder is made with organic pea protein made from yellow peas and sourced from regenerative farms in their formula. Regenerative farms use farming methods that focus on keeping the soil healthy and diverse. (15)

Ritual uses organic pea protein made from yellow peas and sourced from regenerative farms in their formula. Regenerative farms use farming methods that focus on keeping the soil healthy and diverse. (15)

Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+  adds L-methionine to the pea protein to complete the amino acid profile. L-methionine is an essential amino acid, so it must come from food. (16) Plant-based proteins like pea tend to have lower amounts of L-methionine than animal-based proteins. (16)  By adding L-methionine, Ritual’s pea protein powder provides all the amino acids necessary to repair and build lean muscle. Choline, a helper nutrient for L-methionine, is also included in Ritual’s formula. 

Ritual uses fermented sugar cane and monk fruit—two natural, low-calorie sweeteners—to create flavor without added sugar, stevia, or sugar alcohol. This helps keep Ritual’s protein powder low in carbs while minimizing problems like a bitter aftertaste. 

Though Ritual Essential Protein is a great protein powder for adults following a vegan or dairy-free diet, It isn’t a good fit for people with tree nut allergies. The powder contains MCT oil from organic coconuts, a tree nut. 

One serving of Ritual’s plant-based protein costs $2.67. In addition to the higher price, Ritual may also requires more effort to prepare. Instructions on the website suggest using a shaker bottle or blender to get the best results, rather than stirring the protein powder in a glass.

One last downside of the Ritual’s protein powder is that it only comes in one flavor: vanilla.

To learn more about this brand, visit our full Ritual protein review.

What to consider

Though Ritual Essential Protein is a great protein powder for adults following a vegan or dairy-free diet, it isn’t a good fit for people with tree nut allergies. The powder contains MCT oil from organic coconuts, a tree nut. 

One serving of Ritual’s plant-based protein costs $2.67. In addition to the higher price, Ritual may also requires more effort to prepare. Instructions on the website suggest using a shaker bottle or blender to get the best results, rather than stirring the protein powder in a glass. One of our testers said, “When mixed with milk, it was very frothy, but when mixed with water there was no froth or foam at all.”

What customers are saying

People who buy Ritual from Amazon say they like that it’s a plant-based protein powder that provides all the amino acids, but they have trouble with taste and blending.

Kate, a verified purchaser, gives Essential Protein Daily Shake a five-star review, writing, “This is a super clean product. I love that it doesn’t have stevia because I’m intolerant, and everyone seems to put that in everything now. The taste is great, and the texture is great.” 

Another buyer, KC MCG, agrees with Kate, noting it’s the best protein powder they’ve tried. 

Nancy G., on the other hand, says the protein powder lacks flavor, is too thick, and was disappointed about the no-refund policy.

Specs

Why we like Jacked Factory Authentic Iso as best tasting

Jacked Factory Authentic Iso is an affordable, high-quality protein powder that helps repair and build muscle after an intense workout. Beyond the benefits of the whey protein isolate, this protein powder for weight loss made our list for its delicious taste. Our testers really liked the Cinnamon French Toast flavor, noting that the taste is pleasant and smooth with the right amount of sweetness.

Jacked Factory Authentic Iso is also one of the least expensive protein powders on our list. Like Transparent Labs, it’s made with grass-fed whey protein isolate, providing high-quality protein and all the amino acids for maintaining and gaining muscle. However, it costs about $0.70 less per serving than Transparent Labs. 

If you follow a weight-training program, this protein powder is for you. The whey protein isolate is easy to digest and goes straight to the muscles. Taking whey protein isolate combined with weight training is proven to increase muscle strength and size. (17) 

Adding more muscle is beneficial on a weight-loss plan because it is a key player is maximizing your resting metabolism, allowing you to burn calories effectively throughout the day (7). Moreover, ensuring adequate protein, combined with resistance exercise to maintain and perhaps build some muscle, will enable your best metabolism to help you maintain your healthy weight.

When using protein powder for weight loss, incorporate the supplement into your diet so you stay within your ideal calorie range. Adding protein shakes without modifying your diet may lead to weight gain.

“I really enjoyed how this one tasted,” our tester said.”It didn’t get stuck to the sides of the cup or the mixer which is what usually bothers me about other protein powders.”

Another thing we liked about Jacked Factory Authentic Iso protein powder is its short list of ingredients. However, unlike some of the other protein powders for weight loss, the Jacked Factory protein supplement has artificial ingredients like sucralose.  

Check out our in-depth Jacked Factory protein review for more information.

What to consider

Sucralose is an artificial sweetener generally recognized as safe, but some people report bloating and gas when eating or drinking foods sweetened with sucralose. (8) Jacked Factors also uses stevia to sweeten the protein powder. Stevia is a natural low-calorie sweetener, but it has a bitter aftertaste that may make it harder for you to enjoy the taste of the delicious protein supplement.

Another shortcoming of Jacked Factor Authentic Iso is that it doesn’t have third-party testing for quality and safety. The FDA doesn’t regulate supplements, and it’s up to the manufacturer to make sure their product is safe. (9) Third-party testing means the ingredients in the bottle match what you read on the label. 

Though we loved the flavor of this protein powder, we had to give it a lower rating because of the artificial ingredients and lack of testing. 

What customers are saying

Customers who purchase Jacked Factory Authentic Iso give it rave reviews. They like its creamy texture and taste and how well it mixes with water and milk. 

Theodore M., a verified Amazon buyer, says, “I love the flavor, but obviously, this is personal preference, as some reviewers do not like it. It is a bit on the sweeter side. I use this protein as an in-between-meal supplement. I am always hungry, especially on gym days, so this is great for me.” 

Mag is another verified Amazon purchaser who says the cinnamon French toast flavor is a morning staple. “This is one of the best-tasting proteins I’ve tried, it tastes exactly like French toast.”

Most customers critical of the protein powder say it’s too sweet. “The flavors of this protein are less balanced (very sweet) than other whey protein powders I have tasted,” says Amazon customer Scott M.

Specs

Why we like Sports Research Whey Protein Isolate as best whey

We like Sports Research Whey Protein Isolate as the best whey protein powder for weight loss because it’s a high-quality supplement without the high price.

Sports Research Whey Protein Isolate is made with quality ingredients. Whey protein isolate is the main ingredient, providing 25 grams of protein. The supplement contains an additional 1,000 milligrams of leucine and supplies 6.9 grams of BCAAs. 

Leucine is an essential amino acid and one of the BCAAs. (3) It also drives muscle protein synthesis, and taking higher levels of leucine with protein can optimize muscle protein production. (3)  A recent small study found that supplementing with leucine on a calorie-restricted diet prevented significant losses in muscle tissue in men. (18)  We don’t recommend adding leucine supplements for weight loss since research is in the very early stages.

One serving of Sports Research Whey Protein Isolate has 140 to 150 calories, 2 to 4 grams of carbs, and 3.5 to 4 grams of fat. The supplement is fortified with vitamin D, meeting 100% of daily needs. It’s also a good source of calcium meeting 11% of needs.

You can shake, blend, or bake your Sports Research Whey Protein Isolate. It mixes well without clumping. The supplement is third-party tested but only for banned substances, according to the official website.

“When mixed with milk, the texture was much better than when mixed with water. Overall, this was a nice tasting powder, though I liked how it tasted in milk much better,”  our tester said.

The smaller 2.1-pound bag costs $1.46 a serving, with 26 servings per bag. If you have the space and flexibility in your budget, buying the larger 5.1-pound bag of protein powder reduces the price to $1.09 a serving, with 63 servings.

The price and protein quality give this protein powder high marks, but flavor options are limited to chocolate and vanilla. 

What to consider

The whey protein powder uses stevia in their vanilla flavor (the Dutch chocolate use sucralose) as a low-calorie, natural sweetener and has MCT oil. Stevia can affect taste, and MCT oil may cause side effects like abdominal pain or diarrhea. This protein supplement isn’t suitable for people on a vegan or dairy-free diet. The Sports Research supplement also contains coconut, so it isn’t safe for people with tree nut allergies. 

What customers are saying

Amazon reviewers have a lot of good things to say about Sports Research Whey Protein Isolate. They like the taste, ingredients, and the great value for the 5.1-pound bag. Most complaints center around digestive issues like bloating and nausea.

Verified Amazon buyer James writes, “The package is a sturdy bag with a good resealable top, and the scoop inside is large and easy to find and use. I think the taste is great. I don’t get the heavy taste of the whey protein that you get with a lot of other products. I used it in a single-serving shaker, and it blended easily, with no clumps.”

Amazon buyer Callie agrees, noting that it tastes great and mixes easily. However, Callie also writes, “wish it didn’t have the MCT oils and had better macros—but product gives me an upset stomach and major bloating + cramping—wonder if it’s the added fats/MCT.”

Specs