The 4 Best Protein Powders for Men (2026): Expert Reviewed
Learn about our picks for the best protein powders for older men to support muscle health and a healthy diet.
- We chose 1st Phorm Phormula-1 as the Best Protein Powder for Men Overall. It's third-party tested by both NSF International and Informed Choice. Plus, we like its formula with 23 grams (g) of protein per serving and few additives.
- The protein powders in this review cost $2.17–$2.33 per serving. This is before any discounts, promotions, or subscription savings.
- Protein powder can fit into a healthy diet but it shouldn’t replace meals or whole foods.
- Whey-based protein powders are a popular, well-studied choice. They may not be the right choice if you are sensitive to dairy.
- Grass-fed dairy may have more of certain nutrients than dairy from grain-fed cows. But it's unclear whether those differences improve muscle health.
- If you take medications or have any preexisting health conditions, talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement. This includes protein powder.
NCOA supports everyone’s right to age well. So we take the time to research, test, and recommend products that can help you live a healthier life. We’ve spent more than 2,000 hours researching and testing supplements to give you the most accurate product reviews. To find the best health supplements, we:
- Consulted health specialists, including doctors and registered dietitians. Received guidance on choosing the best supplements
- Put more than 100 supplements through more than a dozen different tests at our in-house lab
- Mystery-shopped more than 20 brands
- Surveyed more than 250 older adults on their supplement use
- Interviewed experts on the nutritional needs of older adults
- Worked with older adult testers to evaluate supplements and get their opinions
- Read thousands of verified customer reviews
We’re constantly testing new supplements to give you the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations. Read more about our supplement review methodology.
Getting enough protein helps men maintain muscle health throughout life. But meeting daily protein needs can be hard. Nearly one-third (30%) of men over age 71 don’t eat enough protein.1 The best protein powder for men can help fill this gap by adding protein to meals and snacks.
Not getting enough protein can make it harder to maintain muscle mass and strength. In September of 2026, we surveyed 250 older adults about protein and creatine supplements. Of our respondents, 42% reported being very concerned about losing muscle mass or strength.2 While protein powders can’t prevent muscle loss on their own, they can help you get more protein and support muscle health. We tested several products to find the best options for men, looking at taste, ingredients, and how well each powder fits into daily life. Here are the results.
1st Phorm Phormula-1 Pure Whey
Delivers 23 g high-quality protein backed by third-party certification
Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey
Contains no artificial ingredients, only natural sweetener
Legion Whey+ Grass-Fed Whey
Uses whey from grass-fed dairy and avoids artificial ingredients
Best protein powder for men in 2026
- 1st Phorm Phormula-1: Best Overall
- Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate: Best Tasting Protein Powder
- Legion Whey+: Best Whey Protein Powder
- Heart & Soil Grass-Fed Whey Protein: Best Clean Protein Powder
The best protein powders for men in 2026 compared
| Comparison Features | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Our rating (out of 10)* | 9.1 |
9.1 |
8.9 |
8.0 |
| Protein per serving | 23 g |
28 g |
22 g |
24 g |
| Serving size | 28 g |
32 g |
30 g |
30 g |
| Third-party Testing | NSF International, Informed Choice |
NSF International, Informed Choice |
Labdoor |
NSF International |
| Best for | Overall |
Taste |
Whey |
Clean |
*Ratings reflect a brand's overall offering; the best overall pick doesn't necessarily have the highest score.
How we tested the best protein powders for men
Here are some of the things we considered when choosing the best protein powders for men:
1st Phorm Phormula-1: Best Overall
1st Phorm Phormula-1 protein powder earned our pick for the Best Protein Powder for Men Overall. It has high-quality ingredients and a low-calorie formula. Our testers also thought it mixed well and enjoyed the vanilla milkshake flavor. Each serving has 23 g of protein.
- Made with whey protein isolate
- Low in calories, carbohydrates, and fat
- Available in a wide range of flavors
- NSF International and Informed Choice certified
- Protein per serving: 23 g
- Calories per serving: 100
- Protein source: Whey
- Sweeteners: Sucralose
Pros
- Whey isolate generally contains a higher percentage of protein than whey concentrate
- Products are third-party tested and NSF certified
- Testers loved the taste of the vanilla milkshake flavor
- The powder dissolves without lumps, even in cold water
Cons
- Some flavors contain artificial sweeteners
- The large container may be hard to take on the go
- May not be suitable for people with a whey or dairy allergy or sensitivity
Transparent Labs Grass-Fed 100% Whey Protein Isolate: Best Tasting Protein Powder for Men
Transparent Labs Grass-Fed 100% Whey Protein Isolate provides 28 g of protein per serving. It has no artificial sweeteners, dyes, or fillers. We tested the french vanilla flavor. It had a smooth texture and a rich, ice cream-like taste that testers enjoyed.
- 28 g of protein per serving
- Made with grass-fed whey protein
- Available in 19 flavors and two sizes
- Third-party tested by Informed Choice and NSF
- Protein per serving: 28 g
- Calories per serving: 130
- Protein source: Whey protein isolate
- Sweeteners: Stevia
Pros
- Smooth, creamy texture with no chalky feel
- French vanilla flavor was well-liked
- Most protein per serving in our roundup (28 g)
- No artificial sweeteners, dyes, or fillers
- Third-party tested by Informed Choice and NSF certified
Cons
- Contains dairy, so it is not suitable for vegans or those with sensitivities
- The large tub may be difficult to store
- It is sweetened with stevia, which may not appeal to everyone
Legion Whey+ Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate: Best Whey Protein Powder for Men
Legion Whey+ Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate contains high-quality whey protein isolate from grass-fed cows. It has a short ingredient list, no added sugar, and third-party testing through Labdoor. These factors make it a good choice for men who want a simple, lower-calorie protein powder.
- Legion Whey+ review
- Made with whey protein isolate from grass-fed cows
- Contains no soy, gluten, or artificial sweeteners
- Sweetened with stevia instead of added sugar
- Protein per serving: 22 g
- Calories per serving: 110
- Protein source: Grass-fed whey
- Sweeteners: Stevia
Pros
- Made with whey protein from grass-fed cows
- No added sugar, soy, gluten, or artificial sweeteners
- Comes in a resealable bag instead of a traditional tub
- Offers a 365-day return policy, the longest of any protein powder we tested
- Free shipping on first orders
Cons
- Protein count is the lowest of powders in this roundup
- Contains about 300 mg of sodium per serving
- Costs $2.33–$2.67 per serving, depending on package size
- May not suit those with dairy sensitivities
Heart & Soil Grass-Fed Whey Protein: Best Clean Protein Powder for Men
Heart & Soil Grass-Fed Whey Protein uses 100% grass-fed whey. It has a simple formula with no fillers, gums, or lecithins. It is also NSF Certified for Sport and tested for heavy metals and other impurities. This makes it a strong choice for men who want a protein powder focused on quality ingredients.
- Made with 100% grass-fed whey from Australian cows
- NSF Certified for Sport and third-party tested by Light Labs
- Available in unflavored and chocolate sea salt
- No added hormones, fillers, gums, or lecithins
- Protein per serving: 24 g
- Calories per serving: 110
- Protein source: Grass-fed whey
- Sweeteners: None
Pros
- Made with 100% grass-fed whey protein
- NSF Certified for Sport
- Independently tested for heavy metals, pesticides, and other impurities
- Uses plastic-free packaging, including the scoop
Cons
- Does not mix well with water
- Creates a lot of foam when shaken
- Unflavored option may not appeal to everyone
- Higher price may not fit every budget
What is protein powder?
Protein powder can help you get more protein when you're not getting enough from food. “Protein powder is a concentrated dietary supplement derived from various protein sources,” said Jay Luthar, MD, founder and medical director at Lutanen Health in Boston, Massachusetts, and an instructor at Harvard Medical School. “Most commonly, it comes from whey (from milk), casein, egg white, soy, pea, or rice. It’s designed to deliver a high dose of protein in a convenient powder that can be mixed into drinks, yogurts, smoothies, and more.”
But protein powder should not replace regular meals. It should supplement the protein you get from the foods you eat each day.
Why older adults can benefit from additional protein
Protein helps build and maintain muscle. Some older adults find it harder to get enough protein from food, especially in cases of decreased appetite.1
“As early as our mid-30s, muscle mass begins to decline,” said Dr. Luthar. “This process is known as sarcopenia, and it rapidly accelerates around the age of 60.4 At the same time, our appetite can decrease with age. This means older adults face a real challenge. The protein required to maintain muscle increases while their appetite may decrease. Protein powder can be a practical solution for older adults who are eating less volume but need more protein per day.”
Why protein matters for men
Some men age 60 and older may need more protein to help maintain muscle. The right amount depends on their health, activity level, and other factors. Protein powder can make it easier to meet daily needs. This is especially true if you have a smaller appetite or find it hard to eat enough protein-rich foods.
The best protein powder for men is one that fits your needs, tastes good, and helps you get enough protein each day. Third-party certifications can help you choose a quality product. Protein powder can support a balanced diet. But it does not replace whole foods or regular exercise.
What to look for when choosing a protein powder for men
With so many protein powders to choose from, finding the right one can feel like a lot of work. You don’t need a long list of ingredients to get the protein your body needs. When looking for the best protein powder for men, think about the type of protein. Also consider how much protein each serving provides and whether the product has been tested for safety. Here’s what to keep in mind when shopping for a protein powder.
Type of protein
Protein powders come from different sources, including whey, casein, pea, soy, and rice. Whey comes from milk and is a good choice for people who want a protein that is easy for the body to use. Pea protein is a good option for those who avoid dairy or want a plant-based powder.
“Whey isolate is a kind of protein your body can readily use and absorb,” Dr. Luthar said. It also contains leucine, an amino acid that helps the body build and repair muscle protein.5 “As far as plant-based proteins go,” Dr. Luthar said, “Pea protein is the most evidence-supported.”
Protein dosage
Check how much protein each serving provides. This means comparing the grams of protein with the total grams in one serving. Many protein powders offer about 20–30 g per serving. But the right amount depends on your needs and how much protein you get from food. “Check the protein content as a percentage of total serving size,” Dr. Luthar recommended. “A quality product should deliver protein at roughly 70–80% of the serving weight or higher.” For example, a 30 g serving containing 24 g of protein is 80% protein by weight. This can help you find a powder that gives you more protein without too many extra ingredients.
Third-party testing and certification
“Another important factor is that protein powders aren’t regulated by the FDA, and some have been found to have high traces of heavy metals,” Dr. Luthar said. “To make sure you’re getting a quality powder, look for third-party certification, such as NSF Certified for Sport. You can also ask your primary care provider for a recommendation if you’re unsure what to look for in a quality protein powder.”
Ingredients and additives
Look for a protein powder with fewer added ingredients. Some powders have added sugar, artificial sweeteners, colors, or fillers that you may not need. “Look for a short, readable ingredient list,” Dr. Luthar said. “The fewer the additives, thickeners, and fillers, the better.”
Taste and mixability
Consider how you'll use a protein powder. If you plan to mix it with water and drink it straight, a powder that tastes good and dissolves easily may be important. If you don’t like the taste or texture, you may be less likely to use it. If you plan to mix the powder into food or a smoothie, you may be fine with an unflavored powder or one that doesn’t mix as well.
Brand reputation and transparency
Choose a brand that shares clear details about its ingredients, testing, and how it makes its products. A good brand should make this information easy to find.
Be wary of brands that make big health claims without proof or don't share much about their products. A trusted brand should be open about what’s in its powder and how it checks for quality.
Potential side effects of protein powder for men
Protein powder can help men meet their protein needs. But it may not be right for everyone. Too much protein or choosing a powder with certain ingredients may cause side effects. Your health, the type of protein powder you use, and any medicines you take can affect how your body responds. Talk with your doctor before adding protein powder to your diet if you have a health condition or take daily medication. Some concerns to watch out for include:
Digestive issues
Some men may have gas, bloating, or loose stools after taking protein powder. This can happen with whey-based powders, especially if you have trouble digesting lactose.Lactose is a sugar found in milk. Switching to whey isolate or a plant-based powder may help. Some powders also contain sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners that can upset the stomach. This is particularly an issue in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Taking too much protein
Getting more protein than your body needs may not offer extra benefits. Very high protein intake can also add extra calories and replace other foods your body needs. Protein powder should help fill gaps in your diet, not replace meals or a range of healthy foods.
Kidney disease and other health conditions
Most healthy adults can handle higher protein intake, but this may not be true for everyone. People with chronic kidney disease should not increase their protein intake without their kidney doctor's advice. If you have a health condition, ask your doctor if protein powder is a good choice for you and how much you should take.
Protein powder drug interactions
Protein powder may affect how some medicines work. This matters if you take medicine daily, especially if you take more than one. “This is an area I wish more people considered, especially if they take multiple medications on a regular basis,” said Dr. Luthar. “Whey protein can affect the absorption of certain antibiotics, particularly fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines, if taken around the same time. High protein intake broadly can influence how some medications are metabolized, since protein affects liver enzyme activity. For people on thyroid medication, taking protein powder at the same time as levothyroxine can reduce absorption. Thyroid medication should generally be taken on an empty stomach, separated from supplements and food. Some powders may also interact with immunosuppressants or blood thinners. In my primary care practice, I ask patients if they take any supplements or a protein powder.”
If you take medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist if you need to space out your protein powder from your medication. This is especially important if you take thyroid medicine, certain antibiotics, or blood thinners. It can also be an issue with medicines that affect your immune system.
Best protein powder for men in 2026 costs compared
The protein powders in this review cost $2.17–$2.33 per serving, before any discounts or promotions (including subscriptions). Protein powder prices can vary based on several factors. The protein source, brand, flavors, and third-party certifications can all affect costs. You can often save money by signing up for automatic deliveries or taking advantage of sales.
| Comparison Features | 1st Phorm Phormula-1 |
Transparent Labs Grass-Fed 100% Whey Protein Isolate |
Legion Whey+ |
Heart & Soil Grass-Fed Whey Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per serving | $2.33 |
$2.17 |
$2.33 |
$2.27 |
| Shipping cost | Free on orders $150+ |
Free over $99 and with subscriptions |
Free on first order, orders over $80 |
Free over $100 |
| Return policy | 30 days (110% refund, minus shipping costs) |
45 days |
365 days |
60 days |
| Subscription savings | 12% |
10% plus free shipping |
30% |
10–30% off |
Frequently asked questions
How much protein do older men need?
Research suggests that healthy men over age 60 need about 1–1.2 g of protein per kilogram of body weight each day.1 That’s about 68–82 g per day for a 150-pound man. But needs vary based on your health, activity level, and other factors.
Can older men take protein powder every day?
Older men can take protein powder daily to help meet their protein needs. It works best as part of a balanced diet that includes a range of foods. Talk to your doctor first if you have kidney disease or another health condition, or if you take daily medications.
What is the best protein source for men over 60?
The best protein sources include eggs, fish, chicken, lean meat, dairy, beans, and lentils. The best protein powder for men over 60 is one that fits their needs, tastes good, and helps them get enough protein each day.
Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.
