Whey Protein Buying Guide
Quick answer: Whey protein is the most popular protein powder for building muscle and recovering from training. It comes from milk, digests quickly and gives you a complete spread of amino acids. Most scoops give you around 20 to 25g of protein. Choose standard whey for value, isolate if you are cutting, and diet whey if you want extra support with fat loss.
What is whey protein?
Whey is one of the two proteins found in milk. It is separated during cheese-making and dried into a powder. It is quick to digest and naturally rich in leucine, the amino acid most closely linked to muscle repair. That is why it has been the go-to shake for gym-goers for decades.
Types of whey protein
| Type | What it is | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Whey concentrate | Around 70 to 80% protein, creamy taste | Everyday use and best value |
| Whey blend | Mix of concentrate and isolate | A good balance of taste and protein |
| Whey isolate | Around 90% protein, very low fat and lactose | Cutting and sensitive stomachs |
| Diet whey | Whey with added fat loss ingredients | Dieting and weight management |
| Clear whey | Light, juice-style whey isolate | A refreshing shake instead of a milkshake |
Not sure which to pick? Read our guide to whey protein isolate vs concentrate.
Popular whey proteins
- Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey 2.02kg: 24g of protein per scoop and 63 servings. One of the best known wheys in the world.
- Per4m Whey Advanced Protein 2kg: 67 servings, famous for its flavours, and currently comes with free Creatine Sherbet.
- Applied Nutrition Critical Whey 2kg: 67 servings and great value per scoop, with a free shaker and multivitamin.
- NXT Pure Whey Deluxe: a creamy, great tasting everyday whey.
- Chaos Crew Whey Protein 2kg: bold flavours from one of the UK’s most popular brands.
How to choose the right whey
- Try a small tub first. Gold Standard Whey 450g or Per4m Whey 900g let you test a flavour.
- Buy 2kg for value. The bigger tubs work out cheaper per serving.
- Cutting? Go for whey protein isolate or Applied Nutrition Diet Whey.
- Dairy a problem? Try beef protein isolate instead.
- Want the full package? The Gold Standard Whey Recovery and Hydration Bundle saves you money on a complete stack.
How to use whey protein
Mix one scoop with 200 to 300ml of water or milk. Have it after training, with breakfast, or whenever it helps you hit your protein for the day. For more, see our guide to the best time to take protein shakes.
Whey protein FAQs
What is the best whey protein in the UK?
It depends on your goal. Gold Standard is a trusted all-rounder, Per4m is loved for its flavours, and Critical Whey is great value.
How much whey protein should I take a day?
One or two scoops is typical. Read our guide on how much protein you really need.
Can I take whey protein without training?
Yes. It is simply a convenient way to add protein to your diet. It works best alongside regular training.
Is whey protein good for weight loss?
It can help. Protein keeps you full for longer. Isolate and diet whey are the leanest options.
Should I choose whey or a mass gainer?
Whey suits most people. A mass gainer adds extra calories for those who struggle to eat enough. See mass gainer vs whey protein.
Shop more protein
Browse our full protein range, including protein isolate and beef protein. Many people add creatine to their whey shake.
Supplements should not replace a varied, balanced diet. Speak to your GP before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a medical condition.
