The 5 Best Whey Isolate Proteins In 2025: Our Tested Reviews
Honest Review Guarantee from Fitness Informant:
Our product testing team uses the full 30 day serving amount in container before reviewing. Learn more about our review process here.
The protein powder market is filled with various types of protein powders. They can include Whey Protein Isolate (that's what this list covers), Whey Protein Concentrate, Casein Protein, Milk Protein, Beef Protein, Vegan Protein, etc. The list goes on and on.
Whey Protein Isolate is going to be the highest quality of whey protein on the market. Whey Protein Isolate (WPI) is at least 90% protein (while Whey Protein Concentrate can be as low as 34% quality). Not only is it the highest overall quality, it also limits your intake of lactose (most are lactose free), fats and carbs while still providing 20g+ of protein per serving.
Most every Whey Protein Isolate Powder should feature a strong score for mixability, but what can separate it from the next is the overall taste and price. WPI tends to be higher priced than the other types of protein due to the processing that is involved in making it.
Here at Fitness Informant, we've tried and tested many different Whey Protein Isolate powders. This is our comprehensive list of the top 5 on the market today!
The following products on our top rated whey protein isolate powder rankings list were used by the author of this article.
We used each of these supplements through the duration of a full container. Sample packs were not used in determining the rankings.
A Comparison of the Protein Isolate Powders
Here's the top 5 picks for the best whey protein isolate supplements that money can buy:
Product Name | Highlights | Rating |
|---|---|---|
#1 NutraBio Whey Protein Isolate Use coupon code INFORMANT to save 10% | Best Overall Protein Powder Supplement Highlights:
| Our #1 Rated  9.5 out of 10 in the Protein Powder Category |
#2 Axe & Sledge Farm Fed Use coupon code INFORMANT to save 10% | Best for Post-Workout Recovery Highlights:
| Our #2 Rated 9.0 out of 10 in the Protein Powder Category |
#3 MuscleSport Lean Whey Use coupon code INFORMANT to save 20% | Best for Flavor Options Highlights:
| Our #3 Rated 9.2 out of 10 in the Protein Powder Category |
#4 Muscletech IsoWhey Use coupon code INFORMANT to save 20% | Best for Value Highlights:
| Our #4 Rated 9.0 out of 10 in the Protein Powder Category |
#5 VMI Sports Protolyte | Best for Digestion Highlights:
| Our #5 Rated 9.1 out of 10 in the Protein Powder Category |
There are hundreds of different brands and variations of Protein Powder supplements out there.
How did these 5 make Fitness Informant's top 5 list? Read on and we'll tell you:
#1 NutraBio 100% Whey Protein Isolate
- Rating: 9.5 out of 10
- Servings: 74
- Best For: Top Overall Product
Use coupon code INFORMANT to save 10%
Pros
Cons
NutraBio 100% Whey Protein Isolate is one of the first WPI proteins I put my money into because I learned about NutraBio's commitment to quality. They list the actual protein amount used, and then they tell you how much is yielded. While most companies will tell you that there is a total of X protein - sometimes it only yields 90% of that. NutraBio lays it out.
NutraBio has expanded the 100% WPI line to include a plethora of flavors making it an attractive WPI powder. On top of the flavor line, the price point is right on NutraBio making it one of the better values in the whey protein isolate market.
If you look, this has the same overall score as our #1 rated whey protein isolate. The only reason the nod was given to VMI is we preferred their flavoring system over NutraBio's - who continues to refine theirs and improve them.
Who Makes It?
NutraBio has been in business since 1996 producing some of the highest quality supplements you can buy today. They not only promote awesome, high quality products, but education as well.
NutraBio has been trying to educate the consumer on the sports nutrition industry for several years to ensure that you are purchasing supplements of high quality and not just a marketing gimmick. All of their products contain a 100% transparent label to ensure you know what you are putting in your body.
What's in it?
One serving contains:
- 25g Protein - coming from both Whey Protein Isolate and Micellar Casein
- 0.5g Fat - low fat, fitting for a lean protein
- 2g Carbohydrate - low carb making this macro friendly
Bottom Line:
If you're all about trust and quality - you won't find many better, if any, than NutraBio 100% Whey Protein Isolate. This is 3rd party tested and certified for quality. With NutraBio's 100% WPI, you are going to get one of the best protein powders on the market at a great price.
Use coupon code INFORMANT to save 10%
#2 Axe & Sledge Farm Fed
- Rating: 9.0 out of 10
- Servings: 28
- Best For: Post-Workout Recovery
Use coupon code INFORMANT to save 10%
Pros
Cons
We have had SO many highly rated protein powders throughout the years, and the one whey protein isolate powder we seem to always go back to is Farm Fed from Axe and Sledge. Their flavors are phenomenal and the macros are on-point, making it a standout choice for anyone serious about their nutrition.
With a Whey Protein Isolate, you expect a clean label, and with Farm Fed, you get exactly that. Sourced from grass-fed cows, Farm Fed ensures that you’re getting a high-quality, all-natural protein without any artificial hormones or antibiotics. With 23g of Whey Protein Isolate, less than 1g of fat, and 1g of carbs per serving, you get a clean and lean macro profile without the unnecessary fillers that can detract from a health-forward focus.
What sets Axe and Sledge Farm Fed apart is not just their commitment to quality ingredients, but also their dedication to creating a product that tastes incredible. Their flavors are rich and satisfying, a rarity in the protein world, and it mixes easily without any chalky residue. Plus, it’s gentle on the stomach, leaving you feeling great without any bloating or discomfort.
Farm Fed earned our #1 spot because it delivers on every front: quality, taste, and nutrition. It’s a protein powder that aligns perfectly with the needs of athletes and health-conscious individuals who refuse to compromise.
Who Makes It?
Axe & Sledge is a blue collar brand making supplements for the hardest workers. Axe & Sledge continues to gain popularity and growth through their formulas and culture that the brand is building. The poster child and founder Seth Feroce represents a lot of what is good about bodybuilding and fitness: grinding and doing the MFing work.
What's In It?
One serving contains:
- 25g Protein – coming from WPI
- 1g Carbohydrate– low carb, macro friendly
- <1g Fat - virtually no fat making this macro friendly
- DigeSEB – aid in digestion
Bottom Line:
Axe & Sledge Farm Fed is going to be one of the best whey protein isolate powders you can buy on the market. The price is fair, and the limited flavors are usually worth trying out. Your taste buds and your gains will thank you.
Use coupon code INFORMANT to save 10%
#3 MuscleSport Lean Whey
- Rating: 9.0 out of 10
- Servings: 26
- Best For: Flavor Options
Use coupon code INFORMANT to save 20%
Pros
Cons
There is no way you should go through this year without trying at least one flavor of Lean Whey from MuscleSport. Back in 2019, Lean Whey won our Protein of the Year award for their innovative Unicorn Cookie Shake, and they actually got close to winning again in 2020 with their Toasted Almond flavor. The flavor options from Lean Whey are what really put them on this list. They have shown that they can come out with awesome flavors in a world filled with chocolate and vanilla. Hell, they even have an Italian Rainbow Cookie flavor!
With that said, Lean Whey also has a solid profile while you typically get a few more carbs per serving, it doesn't make a big difference. The protein is actually a blend of both Hydrolyzsed Whey Protein and WPI. You also have their Fat Metabolizing Matrix, which just has some mild extra benefits.
If you want to taste something amazing and get a different experience, Lean Whey is certainly a greta option!
Who Makes It?
MuscleSport is a popular sports nutrition company that makes key products like Lean Whey and their Rhino Black pre-workout series. They do a phenomenal job on their flavoring and branding, and their products are quite good. When you see the brand MuscleSport you can put your trust into it.
What's In It?
One serving contains:
- 25g Protein – Coming from WPI
- 1.5g Fat – low fat making it macro friendly
- 4g Carbs – low carb making this macro friendly
- Fat Metabolizing Matrix - blend of ingredients with some mild benefits
Bottom Line:
MuscleSport Lean Whey is certainly a top notch product. While some may have an issue with the carb content, if you're worried about 3g-5g of carbs from your protein powder, you maybe overthinking your dieting. Lean Whey is certainly a protein worth trying, and it will most likely become a staple in your supplement regimen.
Use coupon code INFORMANT to save 20%
#4 Muscletech IsoWhey
- Rating: 9.0 out of 10
- Servings: 29 servings
- Best For: Value
Use coupon code INFORMANT to save 20%
Pros
Cons
MuscleTech is typically a safe choice when it comes to protein. They always have solid options for every category, and that’s probably why they are a legacy brand. IsoWhey is on this list, as it is a lean option, is widely available, and quite affordable!
While not the most unique Isolate we have seen, it still comes in at a great price point. One scoop of IsoWhey gets you 110 calories with the following macros:
0.5f
2c (<1 fiber)
25p
It comes in chocolate and vanilla, and we must say… the chocolate is solid! What we really like is the value. Not counting the subscribers price, with our coupon code you can get IsoWhey at $44 for 29 servings, which is a solid price point for an Isolate.
Not the flashiest, but still a great option for just about anybody.
Who Makes It?
MuscleTech is the one brand on this list that has been around the longest. They are what we call a "legacy" brand. When you think of that term you typically think the brand has lost focus. MuscleTech is not that brand. They are putting emphasis back on science and effective formulas. MuscleTech has informed us that they will continue down this path featuring more innovative products and formulas.
What's In It?
One serving contains:
- 25g Protein - coming from WPI
- 2g Carbohydrate - low carb making it macro friendly
- 0.5g Fat - low fat, fitting for a lean protein
Bottom Line:
IsoWhey is a solid option if you're in the market for whey protein isolate. Although we wish there were more flavor options, as there is currently only two, the value on it makes it well worth the investment. Muscletech is here to stay, and even if it's nothing exciting, it is reliable and coming from a company you know is meeting label claims.
Use coupon code INFORMANT to save 20%
#5 VMI Sports Protolyte
- Rating: 9.1 out of 10
- Servings: 25
- Best For: Digestion
Pros
Cons
VMI Sports is a brand that does not get enough credit. They have been in this game for a long time, and for years we have stated that they have some of the best flavored supplements on the market. Protolyte is a great example of this which is why we had to include it on this list.
Protolyte is a very lean WPI, and has some of the best flavor options. To be honest, iot could easily compete for the #1 position as far as flavor options go. With that being said, it’s on here for a different reason. Not only does Protolyte have some extra Digestive Enzymes to aid with digestion, it also has electrolytes to aid with hydration. To be honest we are not sure why other proteins have not done this or advertised it at the very least.
Macros are:
24p
1c
0f
100 Calories
Seriously this is one of the best all around proteins on the market, and we highly recommend trying it out at least once!
Who Makes It?
VMI Sports is a brand that has been around for quite some time now, and are actually quite quite successful. They have some of the best flavors on the market, and we have been a fan of their proteins for a long time now. You can' t go wrong with them, and you can expect to see more of them on our lists.
What's In It?
One serving contains:
- 24g Protein (Proven®) - fully transparent 25g WPI
- <1g Carbohydrate - low carb making it macro friendly
- 0g Fat - no fat making this macro friendly
- Electrolytes - aid with absorption
Bottom Line:
If you are looking for a WPI that tastes good, has some awesome flavors, helps with hydration, and digests well? VMI Sports Protolyte is it. Not only does it have a great profile, it also has some amazing flavoring. Honestly it can match up with just about any protein on this list. Well worth trying out at least once.
Does Quality Matter in a Protein?
Does a bear shit in the woods? OK that was pretty straight-forward but YES! Protein quality matters. If you have ever seen a 5lb tub of protein selling for $19.99 or even $29.99 you need to ask yourself how it can be that cheap. It is because the stuff inside that in cheap. Above we talked about the different protein sources available – Whey Protein Concentrate (per the FDA) can be as low as 34% quality and be sold LEGALLY as a protein powder supplement.
If your label indicates 25g of protein that does not mean you are getting 25g protein yield per serving. For example, NutraBio’s 100% WPI above indicates that it gives you 28.19g of protein – at 90% quality this equals 25g of total protein. Most companies do not do that.
Do you homework, use Fitness Informant as a reference, not all all protein powders are treated equally.
This completes our top rated whey protein isolate powders. The products listed above earned the right to be in the top 5 category.
Stay tuned to Fitness Informant throughout the year for updates as new products are tested and reviewed. Thoughts? Comment below!
Why You Need to Supplement with Protein Powder
In this day and age, with overly processed foods being the bulk of the human diet, it is imperative that we supplement with protein powder. That’s just for the sedentary people in this world. If you’re a fitness addict or a casual gym goer, you need protein powder more than anyone else to help with your progressive.The best protein powders can provide you with:
- Increased Muscle Size
Individual muscle cells only grow during protein synthesis windows. Consuming a protein powder post-workout helps increase protein synthesis which helps increase muscle size. - Improve Recovery
Consuming protein powder post-workout not only increases protein synthesis, but it helps repair your muscles quicker, which will speed up your recovery. - Reduce Chance of Injury
Intense exercise recovers proper recovery. Protein powders help improve protein synthesis which helps aid in the recovery process. By improving recovery time, it prevents overtraining which can lead to injury. - Accelerate Fat Loss
Protein powders help increase muscle size, which burns more calories. Protein powders also help increase metabolism, which also aids in weight and fat loss. - Craving Control
Protein powders can contain up to 25g of protein per serving. That alone is 100 calories just in protein. When you have a craving for junk food, a delicious protein shake can curb those cravings and help you on your healthy path of life.
Our Pre-Workout Supplement Testing Process
We examined five different areas of each pre-workout supplement when we compiled our rankings:
- Ingredients Profile
- Effectiveness
- Taste
- Mixability
- Value
Ingredients Profile
When we review each pump activating supplement on their ingredient profile, we look at the active ingredients being used and their dosages.
Many pre-workout supplements include a variety of beneficial ingredients, but under dose them proving to be non-effective.
Effectiveness
Effectiveness is an extension of ingredient profile. If the product uses proven ingredients at clinically suggested dosages, the product should be effective.
Everyone is different. Everyone takes to different ingredients differently at varying dosages. We have tried and tested each of these products throughout the full duration of their container to ensure these products are effective over their life.
Taste
We review taste on two different components. First, how close does the muscle pump supplement taste to the actual name printed on the label. For example, does Blue Raz actually taste like blue raspberry. Second, we review it on overall taste (in our opinion) versus others in the same flavor category.
Mixability
Mixability refers to how well does the product mix in 8-12oz of water. The testing process for a pump activating drink we use here is a generic Blender Bottle with the chrome spiral ball. We use regular tap water with no ice.
Value
Value is a combination of ingredient profile, effectiveness, taste, mixability and cost. We do not just look at the price tag like a lot of others do. If a product is priced at a premium, we inform you if it is worth the premium price or not based on all the categories. We look at the overall picture of the pre-workout supplement, and how it compares to other pre-workout supplements on the market.
Please Note: Many of the “top 10” lists you find online are written by content writers with no in-gym or supplement experience who are paid by the word count to write an article for a website trying to generate money.
These lists are influenced by brands who pay for placement. These lists contain pump activating supplements that are, for the lack of a better word, garbage.
The following products on our best of list were used by the author of this article. He used the pump activating supplements through the duration of a full container. Sample packs were not used in determining the rankings of the best protein powder supplements.
Stop relying on faulty information that is influenced by outside writers and money. This list is the real deal. Here at Fitness Informant, we don’t steer you wrong. Be Informed. Live Fit.
