Whether classic whey, highly filtered isolate, refreshing clear whey, slow casein, or dairy-free beef protein: At Best-Supps, you'll find the complete range of protein powders from international premium brands in one place.
This page is aimed at athletes, fitness enthusiasts, people with increased protein needs, individuals with lactose intolerance, and anyone looking to flexibly meet their protein intake in everyday life. Here, you'll get a comprehensive overview of protein and amino acids, your protein requirements, the most important types of protein powder, their areas of application, suitable target groups, consumption recommendations, and key purchasing criteria – and you can go directly to the category that fits your goal. Discover the entire range below and find your protein powder.
What is Protein?
Protein is one of the three main macronutrients – alongside carbohydrates and fat – and consists of small building blocks called amino acids. When many amino acids link together to form long chains, a protein is created. The body breaks down ingested protein back into individual amino acids and uses them to build its own structures. Protein is therefore involved in countless processes and is a fundamental building block, for muscles among other things.
A distinction is made between essential and non-essential amino acids: the body can produce non-essential ones itself, while essential ones must be obtained through food. A high-quality protein is characterized by providing all essential amino acids in a good ratio. This is precisely where protein powders come in: they deliver high-quality protein in a concentrated, easily dosed, and practical form. As "protein powder" or "protein shake," they are the most commonly used dietary supplement in strength and fitness sports.
Protein, Amino Acids & Biological Value
The quality of a protein depends on its amino acid profile. Particularly important are the nine essential amino acids that the body cannot produce itself. A protein that provides all nine in sufficient quantities is considered "complete." Animal sources such as whey, casein, or beef naturally come with a complete profile – one reason why they are so widespread in sports.
A frequently mentioned term is biological value: it describes how well the body can convert dietary protein into its own body protein. Whey protein has a high biological value of 104 to 110. Whey protein traditionally scores very well here, which is why whey is considered the benchmark among protein powders. Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) – leucine, isoleucine, and valine – which are naturally abundant in whey protein, also play a special role. Egg protein also has a high biological value and contains BCAAs.
Those who want to specifically supplement their amino acid profile can do so through separate products. An overview is provided in the category Amino Acids (BCAA/EAA). However, for the basic supply of high-quality protein, protein powder remains the simplest and most economical basis.
Why is Protein Important?
The body continuously needs protein to build and renew itself. Depending on life situation and activity, the requirement varies: those who exercise regularly, especially strength or endurance training, have a higher protein requirement than someone who moves little. For non-athletes, the German Nutrition Society recommends 0.8 g of protein per kg of body weight. For athletes, the recommended protein intake usually ranges between 1.2 and 2.0 g per kilogram of body weight, depending on the goal; often, about 1.3 to 1.5 g/kg of body weight is also mentioned as a guideline. Protein also plays a special role in a diet because it is very satiating and helps to meet needs despite reduced calories.
Protein powder is not a substitute for a balanced diet, but a practical supplement. It helps to easily reach the daily protein requirement – especially when everyday life leaves little time for elaborate, protein-rich meals or when a quick portion of protein is needed after training. The big advantage: a shake can be mixed in seconds, tastes pleasant in most varieties, and can be flexibly incorporated into any day.
How Much Protein Per Day?
How much protein is sensible depends on body weight, activity, and goal, and cannot be generally determined for everyone. As a rough guide: those who exercise little need a moderate amount, while the requirement increases noticeably with regular strength or endurance training; for muscle building, 1.3 to 1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight, or 1.3 to 1.5 g of protein per kilogram of body weight, are often recommended. In a muscle-building or diet phase, many athletes consciously pay attention to a higher protein intake distributed throughout the day.
Less crucial is the exact timing of a single portion than the total amount of protein consumed throughout the day. Protein powder helps to achieve this amount without unnecessarily burdening the calorie balance. For specific, tailored recommendations, individual nutritional counseling is the right approach; portion size information is also provided on each product package.
Protein from Food or as Powder?
Protein is found in many foods – for example, in meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, and in plant-based sources such as legumes, tofu, or nuts. Basically, protein requirements can be fully met through a balanced diet. Protein powder is not a must, but a tool for more practicality.
The appeal of powder lies in its convenience: a high protein content and suitable protein ratio with little effort, quick preparation, good portionability, and usually a low price per gram of protein per serving compared to some fresh sources, which makes products with protein easier to compare. On the go, after training, or as a quick snack, a shake is often the simplest solution, especially since the protein content also explains its practical use. Those who already consume enough protein through their diet do not need powder – those who want to close gaps or simplify their everyday life benefit from it.
Overview of Protein Types
"Protein powder" is not just protein powder. At Best-Supps, we distinguish five main types, whose protein types can also differ in the combination of their sources, which differ in origin, digestion speed, consistency, and purpose. Here's a compact overview – for all details, each type leads to its own category page.
Whey Protein
Whey Protein (whey protein) is the all-rounder and the most widely used protein powder ever: quickly digestible, easily soluble, with a complete amino acid profile, and an attractive price-performance ratio; for advanced strength athletes and bodybuilders, whey protein powder is particularly practical around training when quickly available protein is needed. It suits almost every goal and is the classic for beginners. You can find the complete selection in the category Whey Protein.
Whey Isolate
Whey Isolate is the particularly pure, more highly filtered form of whey protein: higher protein content per serving, low fat and carbohydrates, and almost lactose-free. Ideal during diet and definition phases or for sensitivity to milk sugar. Learn more in the category Whey Isolate.
Clear Protein
Clear Protein (Clear Whey) is the refreshing alternative to the creamy shake: clear, fruity, and light, similar to a protein lemonade, mixed with water. Perfect for hot days and anyone who doesn't like a thick milkshake. You can find the selection in the category Clear Protein.
Casein
Casein is the slowly digestible counterpart to whey: it supplies the body with protein over several hours and is noticeably satiating. Therefore, it is the classic night protein – ideal before sleeping or during long meal breaks. More in the category Casein.
Beef Protein
Beef Protein (beef protein) is the dairy- and lactose-free protein source from beef – the alternative for anyone who cannot tolerate whey protein or consciously avoids dairy products. Despite the name, it tastes neutral to slightly sweet. You can find the selection in the category Beef Protein.
Direct Comparison of Protein Types
Protein Type | Source | Digestion | Special Feature | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Whey Protein | Milk (Whey) | Fast | All-rounder, good value for money | Beginners & everyday, around training |
Whey Isolate | Milk (Whey) | Fast | Very high protein content, almost lactose-free | Diet, definition, lactose sensitivity |
Clear Protein | Milk (Isolate) | Fast | Clear & fruity instead of creamy | Refreshment, hot days, light shake |
Casein | Milk | Slow | Satiating, available for hours | At night, long meal breaks |
Beef Protein | Beef | Medium | Dairy- & lactose-free | Lactose intolerance, dairy-free diet |
Multi-component Protein | Various | Variable | Combination of fast and slow protein sources | Supply over different speed phases |
A note for those looking for a plant-based alternative: Vegan protein powder from sources such as soy, pea, or rice is also popular. Whether and which vegan options are currently available can be seen directly in the assortment.
Which Protein for Which Goal?
There is no single "best" type of protein – it depends on your goal, tolerance, and taste. This guide will help you quickly find the right category.
Muscle Building & Strength Training
For muscle building, the most important thing is to reliably meet increased protein needs to support the maintenance and growth of muscle mass; as a practical guideline, a portion of protein powder is usually about 30g. A good whey protein is the obvious basis here: fast, practical, and attractively priced. Those who also want to be supplied overnight can supplement with casein. For basic equipment, the combination of fast whey during the day and slow casein in the evening is proven.
Weight Loss & Definition Phase
In a diet, every calorie counts. Here, whey isolate and clear protein show their strength: high protein content with low fat and carbohydrates, mixed with water, they are particularly low in calories. A satiating casein shake in the evening can also help curb cravings. This keeps protein intake high while calories are kept low.
Everyday & General Supply
Anyone who simply wants to consume enough protein without complications is well served with an attractively priced whey concentrate in their favorite flavor, such as chocolate or vanilla. It is the flexible all-rounder for shakes, recipes, and a quick snack, and protein shakes are also practical for everyday life or on the go.
Lactose Intolerance & Dairy-Free Diet
For those sensitive to lactose, whey isolate (almost lactose-free) is a good choice. If you want to completely avoid dairy, opt for beef protein as a dairy-free animal source or a plant-based alternative.
Refreshment & Variety
If you don't like creamy milkshakes or simply want variety, clear protein offers a light, fruity alternative – ideal for summer and after intense workouts.
Protein for Different Groups of People
Not only the goal, but also the initial situation influences the choice. Here are a few typical constellations:
Beginners
For those using protein powder for the first time, the easiest way to start is with a good whey protein in a classic flavor like chocolate or vanilla. It's inexpensive, easily soluble, and suitable for almost any goal – the ideal basis before experimenting with more specialized types.
Women in Training
Protein is not gender-specific: women and men use the same products. The only important factor is individual protein requirements, which depend on activity and goals. Light, fruity options like Clear Protein or an isolate are popular with many, but ultimately, personal taste decides.
Vegetarians & Vegans
Vegetarians can use milk-based proteins like whey and casein. Vegans choose a plant-based alternative from sources like soy, pea, or rice, often referred to as vegan protein. Depending on the blend, these plant-based sources have different advantages and disadvantages regarding amino acid profile, taste, and consistency. Beef protein is dairy-free but animal-based and therefore not suitable for a vegan diet.
Active Everyday Life Without Competition Goals
Even without competitive sports goals, many find it difficult to consume enough protein in everyday life. Here, a shake is simply a convenient way to meet the requirements – without any pressure to perform, also practical for on the go or before visiting the gym.
Protein Intake & Preparation
Preparation is uncomplicated for all types: put a portion of powder with water or milk into a shaker, shake vigorously, done. With water, the shake remains light and low in calories; with milk, it becomes creamier and fuller-bodied. Clear Protein is the exception – it is mixed exclusively with water to achieve the typical clear consistency. Most manufacturers recommend about 25–30 g of powder per serving; the exact amount and protein per serving are stated on the respective product packaging.
Regarding timing, the same applies to all: the total amount of protein distributed throughout the day is decisive, not the individual time. Many use fast whey after training or in the morning, slow casein in the evening; in practice, protein shakes are most often consumed within an hour after training. In addition, protein powder can also be stirred into recipes – for example, in porridge, quark, yogurt, or pancakes – increasing the protein content without much additional fat or sugar.
How to Incorporate Protein into Your Day
Because the total amount distributed throughout the day is what matters most, it helps to divide protein into several occasions instead of consuming it all at once. A protein shake fills the gaps that a meal doesn't cover.
A practical example: a quick whey shake in the morning if breakfast is low in protein; a portion of whey or isolate after training as a convenient protein source; protein-rich meals throughout the day; and in the evening – especially during a diet – a satiating casein as a night protein. This is not a rigid scheme, but a flexible guide that adapts to your everyday life. If you don't like shakes, you can also stir protein powder into foods like porridge, quark, or yogurt to increase the protein content of a meal.
Buying Protein Powder – What to Look For?
When buying protein powder, it's worth looking beyond the pure price per kilogram. The following criteria will help you find the right protein powder.
Protein Content & Amino Acid Profile
The protein content per serving is the central purchasing criterion, but the value per 100g also helps with comparison. Isolates generally provide a higher percentage than concentrates; Gold Standard Whey contains 76g of protein per 100g. Also, look for a complete amino acid profile – whey protein naturally contains a high proportion of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs).
Tolerance
Those sensitive to lactose should choose whey isolate or a dairy-free alternative like beef protein. A look at the declaration shows lactose and allergen information and also helps when checking ingredients; the list of ingredients should not contain any unrecognized additives.
Taste & Solubility
The best protein is of little use if it doesn't taste good. Classics like chocolate and vanilla – for example, creamy vanilla ice cream reminiscent of vanilla ice cream – are particularly popular, and there are also fruity and neutral varieties. Good solubility ensures a lump-free shake – a quality feature of established premium brands.
Form & Consistency
Creamy-milky (whey, casein), light (isolate) or clear-fruity (clear): consider which consistency appeals to you. This often determines satisfaction more strongly than the pure protein value.
Price Per Serving Instead of Price Per Kilogram
A cheap price per kilogram says little if the portion is small or low in protein. The price per serving in relation to the actual protein content is more meaningful.
Taste & Flavors of Protein Powder
The taste often decides whether a protein powder will be used consistently – the best protein is of little use if the shake isn't enjoyable. The classics are chocolate and vanilla: straightforward, versatile, and available in almost every product line. In addition, there are creamy flavors like cookies, caramel, or hazelnut, as well as fruity varieties, which are particularly common with clear protein.
Those who use protein powder for baking or cooking, or who want to determine the taste themselves, opt for neutral, unflavored varieties. They can be flexibly stirred into recipes, quark, or porridge without altering the inherent taste of the food. Some brands also release seasonal or limited-edition flavors. Ultimately, taste is a matter of personal preference – it's best to try a few varieties until you find your favorites. You can see which varieties are available for each product directly with the articles above.
Popular Protein Brands at Best-Supps
Our assortment focuses on international premium brands that have a name in strength sports. These include Optimum Nutrition, Applied Nutrition, Dymatize, Rule One, and Mutant. Via the respective brand page, you can directly access the manufacturer's complete offering – from whey to isolate to casein. In addition to taste, the ingredient list is also important for selection, and a good rating can serve as an additional indicator of customer satisfaction. Protein powder should ideally not contain artificial flavors.
Related Categories & Useful Supplements
Protein is the foundation, but it can be well supplemented. Those who want to specifically expand their amino acid profile will find suitable products in the Amino Acids (BCAA/EAA) category. For many, Creatine is a daily basic supplement for training, and those looking for an extra kick before training will find what they need in Pre-Workout Boosters. For on-the-go, protein-rich Protein Bars are a convenient solid protein source.
Quality, Storage & Shelf Life
You can recognize a high-quality protein powder by clear labeling, good solubility, and a stable, consistent taste from batch to batch. High-quality ingredients are also relevant for health, as they create transparency and allow for better categorization of choices. On the internet, you often find comparison pages and test content that briefly assess quality and labeling. This is precisely what established premium brands stand for – they invest in raw material quality and processing, which is noticeable in a pleasant, clump-free shake.
For all types of storage: keep powder dry, sealed, and protected from heat and direct sunlight to keep it free-flowing and aromatic. It is best to prepare the ready-mixed shake fresh and drink it promptly. You will find the best-before date and storage instructions on the respective packaging.
Common Myths About Protein
Many half-truths circulate about protein. Here are three particularly persistent ones, briefly explained:
"Protein powder alone builds muscle"
No. Protein powder only provides the building block protein. For muscle growth and maintenance, protein intake during muscle building should ideally be about 1.3 to 1.5 g per kg of body weight. Muscles are built through a combination of regular training, adequate protein intake, and recovery. The powder is a convenient aid, not a magic bullet.
"Women get muscular from protein"
A protein shake does not automatically make anyone muscular. How much muscle someone builds depends on training, nutrition, and predisposition – not on the protein powder itself. Protein merely helps to meet the demand.
"Too much protein is unhealthy"
For healthy people, a protein-rich diet within the usual limits is generally considered safe. Those with pre-existing conditions – such as kidney problems – or who are unsure should have the appropriate amount of protein clarified by a doctor. Paying attention to sufficient fluid intake is always advisable.
Frequent Questions about Protein (FAQ)
No difference – „Protein“ is the technical term, „Eiweiß“ the German word for it. „Proteinpulver“ and „Eiweißpulver“ mean the same thing.
That depends on the goal. Whey Protein is the all-rounder, Whey Isolate the pure choice for dieting, Clear Protein the refreshing alternative, Casein the nighttime protein and Beef Protein the dairy-free option. There is no blanket „better“ – only „more suitable“.
For getting started and everyday use, a good Whey Concentrate is enough and attractively priced. Isolate is worth it if you want a particularly high protein content with little fat and lactose, for example during a cutting phase.
Whey Isolate is nearly lactose-free and well tolerated by many. If you want to avoid milk entirely, go for Beef Protein or a plant-based alternative. In case of intolerances, follow the packaging.
The exact timing is secondary – more important is the total amount of protein spread across the day. Many people use fast Whey after training and slow Casein in the evening.
Both work. With water the shake stays light and low in calories, with milk it becomes creamier. Clear Protein is mixed with water only.
Protein powder is a supplement, not a complete meal replacement. It mainly provides protein, whereas a balanced meal additionally contains further nutrients.
Everyone needs protein – a powder can also help in everyday life to conveniently cover your needs, for example when short on time. But it is not a must if your diet already provides enough protein.
Yes, plant-based protein powder from soy, pea or rice is a popular dairy-free alternative. You can see which vegan options are currently available directly in the range.
That depends on how much protein you otherwise take in through your diet. For many people, one to two servings are enough to close gaps. The recommended serving size is stated on the packaging.
No, not per se. What matters is the overall calorie balance. Mixed with water, a protein shake is low in calories and is popular on a diet as a filling, protein-rich option.
Concentrate still contains some fat and lactose and is cheaper; Isolate is more heavily filtered, has a higher protein content and is nearly lactose-free. Both are high-quality whey protein for different needs.
That is purely a matter of taste. Chocolate and vanilla are the most popular all-rounders, fruity flavors shine with Clear Protein, neutral variants are suited to cooking and baking. It's best to try several.
Yes. Protein powder can be stirred into many recipes and increases the protein content there. Neutral flavors are especially suitable for this. For specific applications, follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Depending on the type, from milk (Whey, Isolate, Clear Whey, Casein), from beef (Beef Protein) or from plant sources such as soy, pea or rice. The exact source is stated on the ingredient list of the respective product.
Not automatically. The price also depends on the type (Isolate is more expensive than Concentrate), brand and purity. What matters is the price per serving in relation to the protein content – and whether the product fits your goal.