If the thought of downing a thick, dessert-like shake after a workout class sounds less than appealing, the best clear whey protein powder might be your new go-to. Unlike the classic creamy blends that taste like something off the menu at Baskin Robbins, clear whey protein is light and refreshing—more like juice. It’s perfect when you want something that hydrates and replenishes without sitting heavy in your stomach.
Thanks to its ultra-filtered formula that strips the protein from the lactose, clear whey protein powder is lighter in both taste and calories, registered dietitian, Maddie Pasquariello, MS, RDN, tells SELF. She adds it’s typically hydrolyzed (meaning the proteins are made smaller), so it can be easier on digestion and absorb faster.
But with the supplement aisle more crowded than ever, figuring out the right protein powder for your goals (and your taste buds) takes a little research. To save you some time, we asked registered dietitians for their favorite recs. Plus, find the answers to all your burning clear whey protein powder questions (what even is a whey isolate, anyway?) below.
Our top picks
- Best Overall: Isopure Clear Whey Protein Powder, $30
- Best Budget Pick: MyProtein Clear Whey Isolate, $30
- Best Flavors: Oath Nutrition Clear Whey Isolate, $35
- Best Texture: Ghost Clear Whey Isolate Protein Powder, $45
- Best On-the-Go: SEEQ Clear Variety Pack, $49
Shop the best clear whey protein powders
Your first priority when shopping for any protein powder should be ingredient quality and transparency, says Pasquariello. “The number one thing I look for when choosing a whey supplement of any kind is third-party testing, either NSF, USP, or both,” she says. This means the powder has been evaluated by a third party organization that tests supplements to make sure they do what the label says they do. (Why does this matter? The FDA doesn’t require approval of dietary supplements, including protein powder.) Some, but not all, of the powders on this list are third-party tested.
“Beyond that, most people will benefit most from something that is high in protein, with minimal fat and carbs, and little to no added sugar,” Pasquariello adds.
Best Overall: Isopure Clear Whey Protein Powder
Isopure
Clear Whey Protein Powder
All of the RDs we spoke to recommended looking for powders that have 20 to 30 grams of protein per serving, without a ton of unnecessary fillers or added sugars. Isopure’s Clear Whey Protein does all that and tastes delicious to boot. It packs 20 grams of protein per serving, with zero fat, zero added sugar, and just 90 calories, making it a light post-workout option.
The fruity flavors are light and refreshing (think: citrus lemonade, watermelon lime), and the powder dissolves well without any chalky aftertaste. It’s also competitively priced—you can snag a 14-ounce bottle (16 servings) for around $30 on Amazon. In terms of taste, nutrition, and cost, Isopure’s thirst-quenching option is impressive.
Protein per serving: 20 grams | Flavors: Citrus lemonade, mango lime, mixed berry, pineapple orange, tropical punch, watermelon lime
Best Budget Pick: MyProtein Clear Whey Isolate
MyProtein
Clear Whey Isolate
MyProtein’s Clear Whey Isolate is proof that you don’t have to spend big for top quality. With 20 grams of protein per serving and little fat or sugar, it delivers on both flavor and nutritional value. Bonus: It’s Informed Sport certified, meaning every batch is tested for banned substances and label accuracy, so you know exactly what you’re getting.
It’s also a good value, costing around $30 for 20 servings (that’s about $1.50 each). Even more impressive, it comes in a wide variety of flavors, including tried-and-true fruity classics like strawberry and yuzu and more creative options like Mike & Ike candy and Rocket Pop.
Protein per serving: 20 grams | Flavors: Tropical dragonfruit, fruit punch, lemonade, blue raspberry, Mike & Ike Screamin’ Sour Cherry, Mike & Ike Strawberry, Rocket Pop, orange cream, peach mango, yuzu, watermelon, passionfruit
Best Flavors: Oath Nutrition Clear Whey Isolate
Oath
Nutrition Clear Whey Isolate
If you’re picky about flavor (and honestly, who isn’t?), Oath’s Clear Whey delivers some of the most creative, well-balanced blends out there, without veering into cloying or artificial territory. After your workout, you’ll feel like you’re recovering with a fancy mocktail instead of a protein shake, thanks to flavors like frosty lemonade, coco colada, and watermelon Fresca. Can’t decide? The brand sells single-serve samples, so you can try before you buy.
This whey isolate has 20 grams of protein and is sweetened with stevia (a pro or a con, depending on your needs). The texture is smooth and light—no grit or weird aftertaste here. Just note that it’s not third-party tested, so if label transparency is a priority for you, try one of our other picks.
Protein per serving: 20 grams | Flavors: Coconut colada, kiwi strawberry, frosty lemonade, icy blue razz, island mango, coco razz, watermelon Fresca
Best Texture: Ghost Clear Whey Isolate Protein Powder
Ghost
Clear Whey Isolate Protein Powder
For a smooth texture that rivals the consistency of actual juice, reach for Ghost’s Clear Isolate Protein Powder. It mixes into water seamlessly: no clumps, no foam, no grit, and zero chalky aftertaste. The result is easy to sip mid- or post-workout without feeling weighed down.
Each serving delivers 25 grams of whey protein isolate with 1 gram of carbs and no added sugar. The flavors are bold—there’s Blue Raspberry, Orange Cream, and Strawberry Watermelon—but sweetened with sucralose, which may be a downside for some. It’s also worth noting that Ghost isn’t third-party verified, either.
Protein per serving: 25 grams | Flavors: Blue raspberry, orange cream, strawberry watermelon
Best On-the-Go: SEEQ Clear Protein
On busy days, when lugging around a shaker bottle and a large jug of powder isn’t an option, Seeq’s Variety Pack delivers serious nutritional value in a sippable, convenient form. Each single‑serve packet has 22 grams of whey protein isolate in a powder you can mix up on the go, whether that’s at the office, a doctor’s appointment, even running errands.
It comes in three juicy flavors—blue razz freeze, strawberry lemonade, and watermelon wave—that mix clear with water and go from gym bag to tote with zero fuss.
Protein per serving: 20 grams | Flavors: Blue razz freeze, strawberry lemonade, and watermelon wave
What to consider when choosing a clear whey protein powder
Whey concentrate vs. whey isolate
When you’re shopping for powders, you’ll probably notice two types of protein sources: whey concentrate and whey isolates. These both come from the same source (whey), but serve slightly different goals based on how they’re filtered.
“Whey isolate is produced through additional filtration, resulting in a higher protein content—typically more than 90 percent—with very little lactose and fat,” says Taylor Fazio, MS, RD, SPN, registered dietitian and wellness advisor for concierge medicine service The Lanby. “Whey concentrate, by comparison, contains about 70 to 80 percent protein, with the remaining weight made up of carbohydrates (mainly lactose) and fats.”
While both contain the same essential amino acids, isolate tends to be easier to digest for those with mild lactose sensitivity and is ideal for lean muscle-building. “Whey concentrate, while slightly less processed, provides naturally occurring fats and carbohydrates, which can help support satiety and provide a modest source of energy,” Fazio adds. In short: Isolate is great post-workout; concentrate works well as part of a snack or meal.
Your daily protein intake
When it comes to protein intake, there’s no one-size-fits-all number. Still, you might need more than you think. “Protein requirements vary by age, body size, activity level, and health goals, but often fall within 1.2 to 2.2 grams per kilogram of body weight per day,” says Fazio. “That’s roughly 0.5 to 1 gram per pound.”
Whole food sources should be your primary go-to, since they offer bonus micronutrients. But protein powders can be a convenient way to fill in the gaps. Just don’t overdo it: “Ideally, powders should account for no more than 20 to 25 percent of your total daily protein intake,” Fazio adds.
Experts say to steer clear of mysterious protein blends, vague ingredients, tons of added sugars and artificial sweeteners, and unnecessary fillers. Pasquariello says to look out for misleading claims about what products can and can’t do. “Protein powder isn’t a magic cure, detox, or solution to any health problem, so no company should be advertising that,” she says.
How we picked these protein powders
To find the best clear whey protein powders, we chatted with experts who know their stuff and combed through best-selling picks and TikTok faves. We looked for powders that mix well, taste good, and deliver solid nutrition. We also prioritized products that were third-party tested and certified.
Frequently asked questions
Do clear whey protein powders contain lactose?
Most clear whey protein powders are made with whey isolate, which means they’ve been ultra-filtered to remove most (if not all) of the lactose. So, if you’re lactose-sensitive, they’re usually easier to digest than traditional whey concentrate.
That said, always double-check the label—some products still sneak in trace amounts. “Anyone with a confirmed dairy allergy should avoid whey-based products entirely, as they are derived from milk proteins,” says Fazio.
Are clear whey protein powders gluten-free?
It depends: Some are gluten-free, but you’ll need to check the labels for flavorings or additives that contain gluten. Always look at the ingredient list before you buy.
Is there anyone who should avoid using clear whey protein powders?
Whey comes from milk, so if you are super sensitive to dairy or vegan, whey clear protein powders are a no-go. If your stomach is super-sensitive, you might want to opt for an isolate over a concentrate, which might be easier on your gut.
“This doesn’t mean traditional whey concentrate is bad for everyone or that we should all be avoiding it,” says Pasquariello. “It’s really about trial and error for most people—figuring out what products you like and what works best.”
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