11 best protein shakes 2024, expert reviewed | Fortune Recommends

Nov 02, 2024

By Jill Corleone, RD

Expert Verified by Dr. Rob Wildman, PhD, RD, LD, CISSN, FISSN

Reviewed by Lily Moe

Fact Checked by Kelly Uhler

Our team of fitness and nutrition experts meticulously evaluated dozens of protein shakes for key factors including taste, effectiveness, quality, and price.

Learn more

This article was reviewed by a registered dietitian and sports nutritionist, along with experienced health editors. This article was fact checked for accuracy by a professional with healthcare experience.

Whether you want to bulk up or trim down, protein shakes may help. Boosting protein intake can benefit athletic performance, body composition, appetite control, and metabolism. ( 1 , 2 ) Easy, convenient, and packed with nutrition, protein shakes are a great way to get the nutrients you need to support your goals.

But with so many options on the market, choosing the best protein powder or shake for your unique needs can be challenging. We get it. So, we put our experts to work, evaluating dozens of protein shakes, looking at ingredients, benefits, taste, quality, and price. We’ve compiled a list of our top choices, providing key details and expert commentary for each so you can make an informed decision when choosing the best protein shake for you.

With 14 flavor options and 28 grams of high-quality protein, Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate is a nutritious and delicious way to boost protein intake. The premium shake is low in fat and carbs and nearly lactose-free. It also mixes well in a shaker cup, completely dissolving with a few vigorous shakes.

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate is a high-quality, clean protein powder for supporting muscle recovery, muscle growth, and overall health.

Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate is our pick for best whey protein shake because of its protein source. Whey is one of the proteins found in cow’s milk—the other is casein—and is the liquid remaining after making cheese. ( 3 ). It’s often the go-to protein supplement for many people trying to build muscle or lose weight because it’s rich in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), a group of essential amino acids (EEAs) that play a major role in the body’s muscle-building process. ( 2 )

In its most basic form, whey protein contains some fat and carbs. Whey protein isolate is a form of whey protein that undergoes additional processing to remove most of the fat and carbs, creating a powder with a higher concentration of protein. ( 3 )

Transparent Labs uses whey protein isolate, resulting in a protein shake that contains 28 grams of high-quality protein in every serving. This protein boost could help you maintain muscle during weight loss and build muscle when weight lifting. ( 4 , 5 )

The Whey Protein Isolate from Transparent Labs is low in carbs, low in lactose, and low in fat. It also doesn’t contain any artificial flavors or sweeteners. Instead, it relies on natural flavors and stevia. And according to our testers, the flavors are on-point.

“This is one of the best protein powders I’ve had.”

Team Product Tester

The Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate comes in 15 flavors, so you’ll never get bored drinking the same flavor over and over again. The peppermint hot chocolate, a seasonal flavor, was a favorite among our testers.

A downside our testers did notice was the powder’s solubility—some of them found it difficult to mix.

At $2 a serving, Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate is higher-cost than other options on the market, but our team believes its quality is worth the price.

Check out our Transparent Labs protein review for more information.

On Amazon, Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate has over 200 reviews, with a majority of happy customers. Reviewers particularly like the protein shake because it’s easy to mix, tastes great, and has healthy ingredients.

“Good flavor, ingredients list seems relatively clean, low carb, arrives quickly, mixes well in shaker cup. Enjoying the flavor and will repurchase once this is gone.”

Glen L., Amazon

Amazon customer Jeanette C. writes how she found the protein shake to be delicious and perfect for keto. “I blend it with water real quick in my little Ninja Bullet, and it’s like a milkshake,” she says.

But, some customers don’t care for the powder’s flavor or consistency. An Amazon customer who goes by the screen name “drdi” found the flavor weak and the consistency thin, “It mixes fine, but the result is very watery and the flavor is weak. The flavor is not bad but it is just really weak.”

Jacked Factory Authentic Whey Protein uses whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate to pack in 24 grams of protein in every serving.

Jacked Factory Authentic Whey Protein Powder is a complete protein rich in all of the amino acids, and our pick as best protein shake for muscle gain. One serving has 24 grams of protein, 3 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of fat, and 120 calories.

The International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN) says to make muscle gains, you need to consume 0.6 to 0.9 grams of protein per pound of body weight each day. ( 2 ) Your protein choices should supply an adequate amount of the nine essential amino acids your body needs to repair and build muscle.

Though any type of protein powder that provides the necessary amino acids supports muscle growth, whey protein seems to work the best. It’s rich in leucine, one of the BCAAs that activates the key pathway in muscle cells that signals protein synthesis. ( 5 )

Jacked Factory Authentic Whey Protein Powder contains whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate, making it an excellent choice for people focusing on building muscle.

While we liked Jacked Factory Authentic Whey Protein Powder’s short list of ingredients, we did notice it contains sucralose. The artificial sweetener is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA and is approved for use in foods and drinks. ( 6 ) That said, artificial sweeteners are sometimes linked to health problems like migraines and some cancers. ( 7 ) Limiting your overall intake of artificial sweeteners is recommended.

This protein powder for muscle gain also contains stevia, a natural, low-calorie sweetener. Our product testers said the protein shake was very sweet and suggested it may have something to do with the use of both sucralose and stevia.

While our testers didn’t rave about the taste, the low-calorie sweeteners do help keep the carb content low. This makes Jacked Factory’s Authentic Whey Protein Powder keto-friendly and suitable for help with weight loss, too.

Jacked Factory also makes all their products in a certified good manufacturing practice (cGMP) facility. This means they follow the safety guidelines set by the FDA. ( 8 ) Plus, it’s third-party tested for quality.

At $1.17 per serving, Jacked Factory Authentic Whey Protein Powder is less expensive than many of the protein shakes on the market, making it a budget-friendly muscle-building shake.

For more information about this brand’s protein option, check out our Jacked Factory protein review .

Most Amazon customers give Jacked Factory Authentic Whey Protein Powder favorable reviews. They like the smooth texture and that it’s keto-friendly.

Verified Amazon customer Jason B. gives the whey protein powder a five star review saying, “By far my favorite protein powder. Not only is it delicious, the consistency and mixing capabilities are incredible. It doesn’t feel like you are using some dried powder that turns to paste in water.”

Alex is another verified Amazon customer who likes the protein powder’s macros and price. “The macros are great, mostly protein and comparable to ON. Lastly, the best part about this is the cost.” Amazon customer “Theeadvocate” was unhappy with the protein powder saying ,“Once you buy it, you’re stuck with it! No returns! It tastes SO ARTIFICIAL! It’s pretty disgusting! Overly sweet, BUT in a bad way! Trust me, I like sweets, but this is nasty.”

Gainful is a customizable weight loss protein powder that offers four base protein choices—whey based, plant based, low lactose, and ketogenic.

Gainful Customized Protein Powder earns our pick as best for weight loss thanks to its high-protein, low-carb, and low-fat nutrition label.

Each Gainful protein powder bag is customized to fit your unique needs. To begin, Gainful has you complete a questionnaire so they can better understand your needs and goals. They use this information to recommend a protein powder formula that helps you achieve your goals. The recommendations include a protein base—whey, plant-based, low lactose, or keto—to support nutrition needs and a specific goal boost for health—weight loss, weight gain, or muscle building.

The amount of protein in the Gainful weight loss formula ranges from 19 to 26 grams, depending on your protein base. The ketogenic formula provides the lowest amount of protein and the most calories, but maintains the keto lifestyle. The low lactose formula provides the most protein at only 110 calories.

The whey-based, low-lactose, and ketogenic protein base formulas use whey protein, while the plant-based formula uses a mix of organic pea protein and organic rice protein. All three formulas are complete proteins that can support weight loss.

No single weight-loss program works for everyone, but eating more protein than the recommended dietary allowance seems to help. Following a diet that provides closer to 30% of calories from protein supports weight loss by improving body composition, reducing appetite, and boosting metabolism. ( 1 ) Gainful customized protein shakes are a convenient way to boost protein intake and keep calories within your ideal range to support your efforts.

Gainful’s weight loss formula also contains green tea extract. Studies show this popular weight loss supplement may increase metabolism and the breakdown of fat. ( 9 ) However, the weight loss benefits of green tea extract are minimal and won’t lead to dramatic results. ( 9 )

Gainful’s protein powder is unflavored, but you’re able to add a “flavor boost” like cookies & cream or rich cocoa. Our product testers liked the flavor boosts they tried, particularly the sea salt caramel. A flavor boost adds 5 to 10 calories and 1 to 2 grams of carbohydrates to your shake.

While our testers loved the taste of Gainful, they did have some issues with solubility. One tester said the shake didn’t mix well and was clumpy, which could be an issue for people who are more sensitive to texture.

We love the clean ingredients and customization of Gainful’s protein shake for weight loss, but we would like to see third-party testing in the future. At $3.21 a serving, the protein shake is on the pricier side.

To learn more, visit our full Gainful review .

Most customers on Trustpilot like Gainful protein powder.

“It’s a whole different experience than just buying any brand of protein powder. GAINFUL reached out to me to let me know they have dieticians to assist me with questions over diet or exercise going forward. This is on top of custom preparing your own protein powder.”

Sandra, Trustpilot

Verified customer Andrea S. writes, “I love that flavors can be switched up with each new drink! The protein is smooth and keeps me satiated until my next meal. I’d also like to add that customer service is amazing!!”

Most customer complaints center around customer service and the subscription program, raising concerns about unauthorized charges and lack of customer support to straighten out the problems.

The Ka’Chava All-In-One Nutrition Shake uses multiple plant sources to provide 25 grams of high-quality protein in each serving.

Ka’Chava All-In-One Nutrition Shake is a premium protein shake that’s made from whole-food ingredients and our pick as the best non-dairy protein shake. The nutrient-dense shake is also gluten-free and soy-free, with no artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, or preservatives.

Available in five flavors, one serving of Ka’Chava’s nutrition shake provides 240 calories, 25 grams of protein, 21-25 grams of carbohydrates, and 7-8 grams of fat.

Marketed as a shake that meets many nutritional needs, the ingredients list includes five proprietary blends—protein, adaptogen, antioxidants, omega/fiber, and superfood—each with its own list of whole food ingredients. These blends are responsible for the shakes impressive nutritional profile. However, because they’re proprietary, it’s difficult to fully evaluate dosage for safety. ( 10 )

To get 25 grams of high-quality protein, the shake uses a blend of plants, including yellow pea protein, organic whole grain brown rice protein, organic sacha inchi, organic amaranth, and organic quinoa. Ka’Chava’s reliance on a plant-based blend is a good thing—individual plant proteins may not provide a sufficient supply of essential amino acids. A plant blend, on the other hand, improves the amino acid profile so it more closely resembles animal proteins like whey. ( 11 )

Ka’Chava’s use of whole-food ingredients also makes it a good source of essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. Additionally, it’s an excellent source of fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, iron, and zinc. The shake also supplies prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes for gut health, as well as a healthy dose of antioxidants, which protect cells from oxidative damage.

At $4.66 a serving, Ka’Chava All-In-One Nutrition Shake is the most expensive protein shake on our list. But, considering that this could serve as a partial meal replacement, we believe the cost is worth it. The maker of the non-dairy protein shake recommends using the shake as part of a well-balanced diet, not your sole source of nutrition.

The shake’s flavor choices include chocolate, vanilla, coconut acai, chai, and matcha.

Ka’Chava All-In-One Nutrition Shake uses proprietary blends. Manufacturers only have to list ingredients in proprietary blends, not the amount, making it harder to determine if you’re getting too much of a nutrient. ( 10 ) But it is third-party tested.

Check out our Ka’Chava review for more information.

On Amazon, customers like Ka’Chava Nutrition Shake’s ingredients and nutrition profile.

“This was a perfect meal at anytime I got hungry. I took it with me on trips and I keep a bag in my car. It taste delicious. It’s good without ice, but I really like ice in it…and it make[s] it almost like ice cream.”

Deborah C., Amazon

Unsatisfied customers didn’t like Ka’Chava’s texture or taste.

“The first thing to note is the shake’s consistency and flavor,” Amazon customer Crystal C. writes. “It was thick to the point of being unpalatable, making it difficult to consume. But more concerning were the undertones in the flavor profile.”

Nutricost’s Meal Replacement Shake (MRS) provides balanced nutrition with 20 grams of protein, 15 grams of carbohydrates, 6 grams of fat, and 180 calories in each serving.

Nutricost Meal Replacement Shake earns our pick as the best chocolate protein shake since it hits the mark on taste, satisfaction, and nutrition.

One serving of Nutricost’s Meal Replacement Shake has 180 calories, 20 grams of protein, 15 grams of carbohydrates, and 6 grams of fat. It’s higher in calories, carbs, and fat than many of the other protein shakes on our list. But before you go using MRS as a true meal replacement, note that it’s missing fortified vitamins and minerals, which means it’s not a complete source of nutrition. However, the extra calories, carbs, and fat can be good for bulking up. ( 2 )

Nutricost’s Meal Replacement Shake is also a good source of calcium and iron, providing 11% of the daily value. It’s also high in fiber, providing 11 grams per serving. Fiber slows down digestion, so you feel full longer. ( 12 )

The 20 grams of protein in MRS is instantized whey protein concentrate—whey protein concentrate mixed with sunflower lecithin. According to information from the supplement, instantized whey protein dissolves better in liquids.

MRS has no added sugar and uses sucralose for sweetness. It also contains added medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, a type of saturated fat that’s easier to absorb than long-chain fats. MCT oil is added to protein shakes to improve energy for exercise and promote fat loss. ( 13 )

When you drink a shake with MCT oil, your body quickly absorbs and metabolizes the fat. It then circulates to the muscles, acting as a quick source of energy. ( 13 ) MCT oil may help with fat loss by suppressing the hunger hormone so you eat less. However, the evidence to support the possible benefits of MCT oil is thin. ( 14 ) Plus, MCT oil can cause stomach problems like diarrhea. ( 13 )

While we’re not crazy about the addition of MCT oil, we do appreciate the Meal Replacement Shake’s chocolatey taste and additional third-party testing.

Check out our full Nutricost protein powder review for more information.

Reviews for Nutricost Meal Replacement Shake on Amazon are mixed. People find the protein shake tasty, but difficult to mix.

Plyush, an Amazon Vine Customer Reviewer selected by Amazon to provide insightful reviews after receiving items free of charge to help buyers make informed decisions, writes, “This product is a great option for anyone looking for a tasty meal replacement shake protein powder. The chocolate flavor is delicious and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a quick and easy meal replacement with high protein.”

However, Plyush said they need a blender to mix the powder.

An anonymous Amazon customer and verified buyer of MRS was disappointed with their purchase saying, “I did not like the smell of this at all. When I opened the container I expected a vanilla smell I guess. The taste is quite bad I think as well.”

Sports Research Whey Protein is rich in muscle-building protein and designed to improve strength and performance by supporting muscle recovery following a workout.

Whether you want to build muscle, lose fat, or both, a good protein powder should provide 20 to 30 grams of protein in each serving to support your efforts. ( 2 ) The amount of carbs, on the other hand, can vary based on your goal.

If you’re trying to lose weight, you may prefer a low-carb protein supplement like Sports Research Whey Protein. This high-quality protein powder has 25 grams of protein, 2-4 grams of carbohydrates, 3.5-4 grams of fat, and 140-150 calories.

Only 10% of calories in Sports Research Whey Protein come from carbs, with 67% coming from protein and 24% from fat. This is a good macro ratio if you follow a keto diet and need to get more quality protein. ( 15 )

The chocolate-flavor shake also provides 2 grams of fiber, an indigestible carbohydrate. If you count net carbs, the amount of carbs digested and absorbed, you’re left with 2 grams of carbs in the high-protein shake.

In addition to being low-carb, Sports Research Whey Protein provides high-quality whey protein isolate enhanced with L-leucine. According to ISSN, getting 25 grams of high-quality protein with 1,000 milligrams of L-leucine is the secret sauce for stimulating muscle protein synthesis and putting you in a positive protein balance for muscle growth. ( 2 )

The whey protein powder is also enhanced with MCT oil and vitamin D. As mentioned previously, the MCT oil in the supplement acts as a quick source of aerobic energy. Vitamin D is best known for keeping bones strong, but it also helps maintain muscle and may play a role in muscle growth. However, research is in the early stages and it’s not clear if adding vitamin D to a protein supplement improves muscle gains. ( 16 )

On top of its stellar nutrition profile, Sports Research Whey Protein Powder is soy-free, gluten-free, non-GMO verified, and third-party tested. However, it’s sweetened with two artificial sweeteners, sucralose and acesulfame potassium. Again, artificial sweeteners are generally safe to consume, but may contribute to health problems. ( 6 , 7 )

Sports Research Whey Protein is a good choice whether you want to lose weight or build muscle. It’s low in carbs and high in protein. It’s also the least expensive protein powder on our list, retailing for $0.63 a serving.

Sports Research Whey Protein is highly rated on Amazon. Customers like how easy it is to mix into a shake, and they love the price.

“This stuff tastes great. The bag is huge, so it’s a good value.”

Michael, Amazon

Other customers say they like the taste and texture, and prefer this protein powder over others.

Callie is a verified Amazon customer who likes the whey protein powder but says it causes stomach problems. “The product tastes good and mixes nicely—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,” she writes.

Promix Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder is an all-natural, plant-based supplement with only two ingredients.

Promix Unflavored Vegan Protein is a high-quality supplement with only two ingredients: Canadian yellow pea protein powder and vitamin B12. This clean and simple protein powder is our pick as the best plant-based protein shake.

Pea protein is a complete protein, supplying all the EAAs and BCAAs for muscle maintenance and growth, and a popular plant-based protein supplement. ( 17 ) Research shows that pea protein works as well at building muscle as whey protein. ( 17 )

The Promix protein shake has 25 grams of protein and 5.2 grams of BCAAs. It’s also fat-free and has 2 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fiber, and 115 calories.

What makes this plant-based protein shake stand out is its vitamin B12 content, providing 200% of the daily value. Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that helps make red blood cells and supports nervous system function. ( 18 ) However, the vitamin is only naturally found in animal products, so people who follow a plant-based diet may struggle to meet their daily vitamin B12 needs. ( 18 )

Our team also likes that Promix Unflavored Vegan Protein has a simple formula—it’s only two ingredients. Fewer ingredients may reduce the risk of side effects and adverse health effects. The protein powder is also third-party tested for heavy metals, allergens, and other toxins. Promix shares the independent lab report data on their website, showing their dedication to transparency and safety.

At $1.16 a serving for a 2.5-pound bag, Promix’s unflavored plant-based protein shake is a good value. If you buy in bulk—5 pounds of protein powder—the price drops to $0.88 per serving. And, subscribing saves you an additional 10%.

Customers on Amazon really like the quality of Promix Unflavored Vegan Protein. They like that it’s all-natural, sugar free, and versatile.

Marty is a verified Amazon customer who likes the flexibility they have with unflavored vegan protein powder . “In my opinion this is the best of the available vegan protein powders: there is NO pea protein aftertaste, and its very bland flavor makes it ideal to mix with whatever you like. The bland taste allows you to throw it into baked goods or drinks.”

Other Amazon shoppers appreciate the powder’s clean ingredients and price.

“When I saw this product and its ingredients, I was excited about how “clean” it was. When I had my first smoothie with it, my digestive system agreed and it felt ‘pure.’”

Kyle, Amazon

Though many people say the protein powder is bland, some customers don’t care for the taste.

“I have never had unflavored vegan protein powder, so I am not sure how this compares to others, but I did not enjoy the taste of this product,” verified Amazon customer Anna writes.

Vega All-In-One Shake is a nutrient-rich vegan protein shake that provides 20 grams of high-quality protein in every serving.

Vega All-In-One Shake is packed with nutrients and our top choice for best vegan protein shake.

Plant-based diets are continuing to grow in popularity. And while these diets have clear health benefits, sometimes it can be a challenge to get all the essential nutrients your body needs. This is emphasized further for vegan lifestyles. People who follow a vegan diet may not get enough vitamin B12, vitamin D, zinc, iron, or calcium from their usual diet. ( 19 ) Protein is another area of concern.

Vega All-In-One Shake is a vegan protein shake that provides the nutrients commonly lacking in the vegan diet—as well as a hearty 20 grams of protein in each serving, 10-12 grams of carbohydrates, 3-3.5 grams of fat, and 140-150 calories. It’s also an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin D, and iron. However, it only meets 6% of the daily value for calcium (60-130 milligrams), and the nutrition information for zinc isn’t available.

The all-in-one shake also has probiotics for gut health and plant-based omega-3 fatty acids that benefit the brain, heart, and overall health. ( 20 ) One serving also provides 6 grams of fiber.

Many of the nutrients in the shake are food-based. The protein comes from pea protein, quinoa, brown rice protein, and pumpkin seed protein. The omega-3s come from flaxseed. However, the shake is fortified with many of the essential nutrients, meaning vitamins and minerals are added to the shake to enhance nutritional value.

Vega All-In-One Shake is gluten-free, but contains coconut and almonds and is made in a plant that processes foods that contain milk, soy, peanuts, eggs, and sesame. If you have severe food allergies, you may want to consider a different vegan protein shake.

The vegan protein shake comes in six flavors as well as plain, unsweetened. It’s third-party tested, certified USDA organic, and verified non-GMO.

At $3.80 per serving, Vega All-In-One Shake is more expensive than average compared to other protein shakes on the market.

Many people on Amazon like the nutrition, quality, and taste of Vega All-In-One Shake.

One verified Amazon customer says they’ve been drinking the all-in-one shake for seven years.

“Ingredients are straightforward. Taste is great. You feel great after having it. It’s part of my routine basically six days per week and has been for a very very long time, and will be for a very long time.”

Fam, Amazon

Whannda is another verified customer enjoying Vega One writing, “Great flavor and fabulous nutrition.”

Critical reviews of the vegan shake disliked the taste and texture. Amazon customer Casmene S. notes, “Awful sweet and grainy taste.”

Instant Knockout Complete is a 400-calorie meal replacement shake with 35 grams of plant-based protein, 13 grams of fiber, and 27 other essential nutrients.

With 35 grams of protein in each serving, Instant Knockout Complete is our pick for best high protein shake. Most of the protein in the meal replacement shake comes from pea protein and soy protein isolate. It also contains brown rice protein.

The plant protein blend improves the amino acid profile in the high-protein shake. The company’s website mentions that they specifically add the brown rice protein to boost BCAA content to help improve muscle mass.

Designed with athletes in mind, Instant Knockout Complete may also help with weight loss when used as a meal replacement. Inspiration for the shake comes from professional fighters who need to meet their weight goal without compromising strength before a fight. One serving of the high-protein shake has 400 calories, 35 grams of carbohydrates, and 13 grams of fat. It also boasts 13 grams of fiber.

Most of the fiber in the high-protein shake comes from oat flour. Oats are high in many beneficial nutrients, including beta glucan, a fiber that stabilizes blood sugar and keeps you feeling full. ( 21 ) The added oat fiber in Instant Knockout Complete helps keep energy up and hunger at bay.

The shake also contains flaxseeds and chia seeds for fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, rounding out its full nutrition profile.

Instant Knockout Complet packs a lot of nutrition into a small serving, but the drink has a lengthy list of ingredients and contains common food allergens, including tree nuts (coconut), wheat, and soy. It’s also made in a facility that processes foods that contain milk, eggs, peanuts, sesame, fish, and shellfish. And, it’s sweetened with sucralose.

According to the website, Instant Knockout Complete was formulated by trained nutritionists and dietitians and manufactured in a cGMP facility. However, it’s not third-party tested.

At $4.21 a serving, the high-protein shake is more expensive than most of the other shakes on our list. However, if it’s replacing a meal, that price may not be as big of a deterrent.

Customer reviews for Instant Knockout Complete on Amazon are mixed.

“Seems expensive but it’s not considering less grocery shopping and food wasting dishwashing. I make 3 flavors. 1 with frozen strawberries, 1 with frozen blueberries, and 1 with PB powder and cinnamon. Easy quick high nutrition meals for the working man. Fills me up for hours. No observed drawbacks to date.”

Captain L., Amazon

Carolyn1775, another verified Amazon customer, says the taste fell short and warns, “Be prepared to doctor it up every time you have it. I need to be able to drink it quickly from a shaker cup, not have to drag out the blender and do all the clean up.”

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard RTD Protein Shake is a tasty, ready-made shake that provides 24 grams of high-quality protein in every carton.

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard RTD is one of the very few protein shakes on our list that you don’t have to mix. It’s a grab-and-go drink and our pick for best tasting protein shake.

One serving (325 milliliters) has 130 to 140 calories, 24 grams of protein, 3 to 4 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of fat. The nutritional differences vary based on flavor—you can choose between chocolate and vanilla.

The drink uses a protein blend to provide high-quality protein that includes milk protein isolate, milk protein concentrate, whey protein concentrate, and calcium caseinate. The milk, whey, and casein in the drink means you get all of the essential amino acids your body needs. ( 22 )

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard RTD is fortified with 25 essential vitamins and minerals. One drink provides 20% of the daily value for vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, as well as many of the B vitamins and zinc. The ready-made shake is also a good source of iron and calcium.

One of the downsides of Optimum Nutrition’s shake is that it has a long list of ingredients—mostly due to the added vitamins and minerals. But heavy cream, which contributes to the creamy taste, is also toward the bottom of the ingredient list.

To keep carbs low, the shake uses two artificial sweeteners—sucralose and acesulfame potassium—for flavor. It also contains cellulose gel and gum and carrageenan, food additives that thicken the liquid and prevent the fat from separating out. ( 23 )

The RTD protein shake is gluten-free, but not dairy-free. It also does not appear to be third-party tested for quality, though many other Optimum Nutrition products are Informed Choice certified.

At $2.00 a serving, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard RTD Protein Shake is a good value for a convenient, anytime protein drink. Though fortified with vitamins and minerals, the RTD protein shake is too low in calories to replace a meal.

To learn more, check out our full Optimum Nutrition protein review .

A majority of Amazon customers have good things to say about Optimum Nutrition’s RTD protein shake. They like the protein quality, that it’s grab-and-go, and tastes great.

Verified Amazon customer Susan writes, “An easy to drink product in the vanilla flavor. It has more protein than the slim fast drinks and it has the same ounces. It is a good value.”

“This one is so far the best one. It’s not thick or too thin, it’s about in the middle, but the taste is good. And if I look at the ingredients as far as calories and so forth.”

Robert R., Amazon

While most reviews are positive, not every Amazon customer likes the texture of the RTD protein shake.

Verified Amazon customer Jeff C. writes, “Each one I drank was chilled and shaken well, but there seemed to be clumps of goo which threw the taste and satisfaction of the drink off.”

Kate Farms Glucose Support Nutrition Shake helps manage blood sugar in people with diabetes when part of a balanced diet.

Kate Farms Glucose Support Nutrition Shake is designed specifically for people with diabetes to help manage blood sugar. It’s plant-based, organic, and our pick for best protein shake for diabetics.

One carton (250 milliliters) has 300 calories, 16 grams of protein, 26 grams of carbohydrates, and 15 grams of fat. The protein shake is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron, and calcium, to name a few.

The pea protein in Kate Farms is intended for easy digestion. The fat in the diabetic shake comes from sunflower oil, MCT oil, and flaxseed oil. Limited evidence suggests MCT oil may improve insulin sensitivity, helping with blood sugar control. ( 24 ) However, more research is necessary before claims are made.

The glucose support nutrition shake also provides 6 grams of fiber. Fiber offers many health benefits for people with diabetes. It improves blood sugar control, helps with weight management, and lowers cholesterol benefitting heart health. ( 25 )

Instead of artificial sweeteners or natural low-calorie sweeteners like stevia, this protein shake is sweetened with agave. Agave is a natural sweetener that provides vitamins, minerals, and polyphenols. It also has a low glycemic index, reducing risk of blood sugar spikes. ( 26 )

While Kate Farms Glucose Support Nutrition shake is packed with nutrients and can serve as a meal replacement shake, we don’t recommend drinking the shake for every meal. It works best when part of a balanced meal plan filled with whole foods. Plus, at $3.83 a serving, relying too heavily on the shake could get expensive.

Kate Farms Glucose Support Nutrition Shake is certified USDA organic, gluten-free, and non-GMO verified. However, it’s not third-party tested and contains proprietary blends.

Customers on Amazon have a lot of favorable things to say about the Kate Farms nutrition shake. Most like the quality of the shake and its nutrition.

Verified Amazon buyer Sherry gives the shake a five-star review and says it tastes good, “A little expansive [sic] but I’ll give it a try after highly recommended by a friend.”

“I love the taste and convenience of this drink. It’s replaced my morning coffee and snacks during the day. I like everything about it.”

Linda C., Amazon

Del W. is an Amazon Vine Customer, selected by Amazon to receive free products to provide insightful reviews, who tried the Kate Farms shake to help with diabetes. They were disappointed with the taste, texture, and effects on blood sugar. “It is a bit on the thick side, which is okay as long as it is ice cold… as soon as it warms, the thickness really makes it unappetizing. The flavor profile is on the weaker side…As far as glucose control, I would say that it helps to stay my hunger and holds me over until lunch… but I do see a pretty decent spike in blood glucose… especially when compared to other options.”

Supplements like protein shakes can help fill in nutritional gaps and enhance health, and choosing the right one can make a huge difference in health and wellness. However, individual health goals and needs vary. So, we’re dedicated to providing detailed and trustworthy reviews for supplements so you can make informed decisions.

Our goal is to provide all the information you need so you can select a protein shake that fits your goals and needs. You can learn more about our supplement testing methodology here, and the factors below are what we consider before making recommendations:

Efficacy means the effectiveness of the product in achieving its claims and the evidence that supports those claims. Each supplement can help consumers achieve specific health benefits. We examine whether a supplement delivers on its promised benefits.

Here’s what we look for:

When choosing a supplement, you have to assess health risks, adverse effects, and safety profiles. We ensure the safety of these products through first-hand testing. To do this, we evaluate:

We know that value doesn’t just mean price—it also includes the quality you get for the price. Our team factors in a cost analysis to determine the true worth of a supplement in relation to its price. We then identify products that offer a solid return on investment:

Our factors in this rating include:

A customer’s experience with a company directly impacts satisfaction, loyalty, and the likelihood of repeat purchases. That’s why our team includes it in our testing process.

Our factors in this rating include:

Protein shakes are a convenient way to get nutrition on-the-go. Whether ready-made or a powder that needs mixing, protein shakes are an easy way to get more protein.

Every cell, tissue, and organ relies on protein for structure and function. It’s also needed to make enzymes, hormones, and immune cells. ( 27 ) Beyond the basics, eating more protein helps with managing weight, building muscle, and improving strength. ( 1 )

Research shows that consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance improves body composition during weight loss. ( 1 ) The additional protein helps retain lean muscle while you lose fat. It also keeps you feeling full so you eat less, and requires more energy to digest, giving your metabolism a little boost. ( 1 , 2 )

Increasing protein intake is vital for building muscle and improving strength when exercising or playing a sport.

Protein shakes provide the extra protein in a convenient form. Plus, these shakes contain high-quality protein that support multiple health benefits.

No single protein shake works for everyone. You need to take several factors into consideration when looking for a shake that works best for you. These factors include:

Protein type is one of the first things you need to consider when looking for a protein shake. Do you want an animal-based protein like whey or plant-based protein like pea? Protein type doesn’t have much of an effect on benefits, but may influence shake taste and tolerance. Choose a protein type that fits your style of eating, taste preferences, and goals.

Protein shakes come in two forms: ready-to-drink or powder. Ready-to-drink shakes are a great choice when you want an easy, grab-and-go drink. But these shakes may have more added ingredients and a higher price tag than protein powders.

Protein powders take a little more work, but give you more control over your nutrition. Mix the powder with water or milk, or blend with fruits and vegetables to make a high-protein smoothie. You can also add protein powder to oatmeal, pancake batter, or baked goods.

Your protein shake should provide the nutrition you need to achieve your goals. If you want to lose weight, you might prefer a lower calorie shake with more protein and less fat and carbs. If you’re trying to bulk up, a higher calorie shake may work better.

Take a close look at the ingredients list when searching for a protein shake. Select shakes that use more natural ingredients, and avoid those with added sugar.

Protein shakes are a dietary supplement and not tested and regulated like food or drugs. The FDA leaves it up to the manufacturer to make sure their product is safe. ( 8 )

Third-party testing is an independent lab evaluation of a supplement that checks quality and potency. This isn’t a requirement and doesn’t guarantee supplement safety, but may reduce risk of adverse health effects.

Supplements may display third-party testing certificates on their label or website. NSF, ConsumerLab.com, and Informed Choice are third-party testing labs.

A protein shake with good value is one that fits your budget, meets your needs, and suits your taste. The least expensive protein shake may not offer the best value if you don’t like it and won’t drink it. The same goes for the most expensive shake.

Protein shakes are good for you when used to complement your diet, not replace nutritious whole foods. Protein shakes are a convenient way to boost protein intake to maintain and build muscle and support health goals. Choose protein shakes that provide 20 to 30 grams of protein per serving to get the most benefits. ( 2 )

The number of protein shakes you can drink in a day depends on your protein needs and health goals. The shakes should complement your diet, not replace healthy foods. Most protein shakes aren’t fortified with vitamins and minerals, so they don’t make good meal replacement shakes. Drink a shake after your workout or in between meals.

Protein shakes can help with weight loss when part of a balanced diet. Consuming a higher protein diet helps preserve muscle while you lose the fat. More protein also improves satiety and gives your metabolism a little boost.

You should drink a protein shake at a time that works for you and your health goals. Most people drink protein shakes after their workout to support muscle repair and growth. However, protein shakes make a quick and convenient breakfast or snack.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.

Robert Wildman, Ph.D., RD, LD, CISSN, FISSN

“Dr. Rob” is a globally renowned exercise, fitness, and nutrition expert who speaks around the world on exercise and sport nutrition, and continues to work with professional and elite athletes to achieve their highest level of performance as well as health and fitness. Rob received his Ph.D. from The Ohio State University, earned his MS from Florida State University, and earned his BS from the University of Pittsburgh. He is also a registered and licensed dietitian.

Lily Moe, Editor

Lily is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor with over seven years of experience in health media. As a former Fitness Coach, Lily’s editorial prowess has largely focused on fitness, nutrition, and weight management. She has also spent a fair share of time in testing labs, analyzing everything from protein powders to yoga mats. Her work has appeared in Verywell Fit, Verywell Mind, Health, and more.

Jessica Coulon, Editor

Jessica Coulon is a contributing editor and writer for Fortune Recommends™ who specializes in fitness, health, nutrition, and science content. Previously, she was an editor for Popular Mechanics and Bicycling, where she covered pro cycling news, wrote how-to guides, and tested all the latest and greatest bike gear. She was also a regular shoe tester and contributor for Runner’s World. You can often find her skiing or riding her mountain bike, and racing with the F1RE female enduro team.

Kelly Uhler, Fact Checker

Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.

RD, Fortune Recommends Nutrition Writer

Jill’s life has centered around nutrition and fitness for more than two decades. After earning her bachelor of science in nutrition at New York University in Manhattan, Jill went on to complete her internship at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in Newark.

She spent the early part of her career working as a clinical dietitian with a focus on pediatric nutrition. She then transitioned into management. Jill began her career as a freelance writer in 2007 while working as a clinical nutrition manager in Florida. She became a full-time writer in 2010 after the birth of her first child.

Jill has written for numerous publications, including Verywellfit, Diabetes Self-Management, Huffington Post, Livestrong.com, and SFGate.