Our Picks Best complete plant-based protein powder Huel Complete Protein View details $37 at Amazon View details Best overall whey-based protein powder Ascent Native Fuel Whey Protein Powder View details $40 at Target View details Best unflavored whey-based protein powder Myprotein Impact Whey Isolate View details $50 at Amazon View details Best plant-based protein powder to buy in bulk Orgain Organic Protein Powder View details $20 at Target View details Best flavor variety protein powder Ghost Protein Powder View details $30 at Target View details Best sustainable whey-based protein powder Whey Forward View details $23 at Myprotein View details Table of Contents These are our top picks for best protein powders on the market. Giselle Castro-Sloboda/ CNETIf your current protein powder isn't cutting it or you're new to protein powders and unsure what to choose, we've done the research for you. This protein source is an easy way increase protein intake in your diet to build muscle mass and improve your overall nutrition. With the amino acids in the protein powders, your body can more easily recover from workouts and build strength. The total amount of recommended protein is0.36 grams of protein per pound (0.8 grams per kilogram) of body weight per day. If you're not getting enough in your regular diet, that's where high-quality protein powders can help.While it's true that some supplements on the market are sketchy at best, there are safe and reliable options available, too. And, if you're new to protein powders, it's helpful to know that there are two common types to make you're getting enough protein: whey protein powder and plant-based protein powder.We tested multiple protein powders on the market to narrow the best whey and plant-based protein powders down. Check out our top picks below that we think you'll enjoy. $37 at Amazon Huel is a brand that I spotted in a social media ad and it piqued my interest because of the variety it has to offer. The company has several product lines, including protein shakes and powders as well as meal replacement shakes. Each product includes 27 essential vitamins and minerals, fatty acids, carbs and other nutrients. It's low-sugar and dairy-free.Huel's protein powder is made up of pea, faba and hemp powder. Even though the brand says its plant protein has a neutral flavor, I'd disagree because there is a distinct difference upon tasting it that makes it stand out compared to other plant-based proteins. After trying flavors from both the Black Edition and Complete Protein lines, I established that my favorite Huel flavor was the vanilla caramel flavor from the Complete Protein line. I blended it with iced coffee and oat milk and it tasted like a delicious specialty flavored iced latte you would order from your local coffee shop. I'm not even a fan of caramel, but I was impressed by the flavor profile and smooth consistency of the beverage. I also had no negative side effects and the aftertaste was minimal with this one.One serving of Huel's Complete Protein contains 20 grams of protein and 110 calories. This makes it an ideal drink to have post-workout or as a snack, but if you're looking for something to hold you over a little longer, Huel's Black Edition, Huel Powder and Ready-to-Drink options are considered complete meals, with 400 calories and extra protein.ProsVanilla Caramel flavor blends well with coffee and milkWell thought-out, plant-based formula across all Huel's productsIncludes probiotics, which is important for gut healthConsExpensive; it has to be acquired as part of a subscription or one-time purchase bundleFlavor isn't as consistent across the Complete Protein and Black Edition lineHemp and faba may not be a favored plant-based ingredient for everyone I'm particularly sensitive when it comes to whey-based protein powders, but was pleasantly surprised by Ascent's take on protein powder. I've used this whey protein isolate powder consistently over the past year and have found no negative side effects. Whey protein isolate powder is a refined form of protein powder, making it ideal if you are just looking for a powder in its purest form. Ascent's vanilla and chocolate flavors are delicious, stomach-friendly and have no weird aftertaste. They also blend well with other ingredients, such as fruits and leafy greens if you're looking to boost your protein shakes.Ascent's whey-based powders have 25 grams of protein per serving, consisting of 12 grams of essential amino acids (necessary for muscle health) and 2.7 grams of leucine (important to stimulate muscle growth). They're gluten-free and use stevia as a sweetener instead of sugar. If you're looking for a low-carb, no-added-sugar and easy-to-mix whey-based powder (with water or milk) then you'll love this product.ProsBlends well with different milks and waterNo negative gastrointestinal side effects during my testsGood flavored whey protein isolate optionConsExpensive for a two-pound bag and requires a subscription or one-time purchase on websiteNo price difference through third-party sellersFlavor variety is slightly lacking