11 Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S., is the fitness director of

Think of this tried-and-true whey protein powder as a dependable, cost-conscious option. “Gold Standard Whey is aptly named, as it is the gold standard. It contains whey protein and digestive enzymes and is a great affordable option for anyone looking for a whey protein supplement without any nutritional ‘bells and whistles',” says Roussell.

This whey protein powder isn't messing around when it comes to protein per serving at 30 grams. The whey isolates go through a hydrolization process, which the company claims will make it easier for your body to break down. 

Concerned about your gut? This certified organic whey protein powder is sourced from grass fed cows and contains probiotics to help your digestion, along with the 21 grams of protein per serving. 

Minimalist? Naked whey protein powder strips everything out but the whey itself—no additives or sweeteners here. The supplement is also cold processed, which the company claims makes sure that no contamination occurs from chemical detergents, synthetic additives, or heavy metals.

You’ll get a lot more than just protein with this whey protein powder. “RSP TrueFit packs 25g of protein while also giving you 8 grams of fiber, freeze dried concentrates from 12 antioxidant rich fruits and vegetables, and pre/probiotics for digestive health," says Roussell. "There is no need to add anything else to your shake.” 

Creatine, a compound made from amino acids, can help reduce fatigue during heavy lifting and boost muscle gains from strength training. College students who supplemented with creatine protein powders before and after pumping iron increased their bicep muscle thickness by 20 percent in 6 weeks, says a study in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research.

If you have an allergy or intolerance to dairy, plain whey concentrate protein powders are going to cause issues. Whey isolate, a purer form of whey protein, has 99.9 percent of the offending lactose removed, making it a safe bet for lactose-intolerant guys.

Bodylogix carries the heralded NSF Certified for Sport Seal, which means that what's advertised on the label is exactly what's inside the jug. Not many protein powders have this label. Trust the ones that do. 

This super-clean whey isolate delivers on protein and flavor. If you tend to take your protein powder with milk, this stuff basically turns your post-workout drink into an awesome vanilla milkshake. You may even want to drink one on a rest day. 

One scoop from this big bag of whey protein powder carries 25 grams of protein and 2.7 grams of leucine, an amino acid that assists with muscle recovery.

Get the best of both worlds in this whey protein powder: A blend of fast-acting whey protein fuel muscle recovery and growth, and slow-digesting casein quells post-gym hunger pangs. People reported feeling more satiated after drinking 20 grams of casein protein mixed with water than they did after drinking a whey protein or pea protein solution, a Swiss study found.