Best Protein Shakes for an Effortless Boost in 2025

Premier Protein has made itself a household name and is probably one of the most popular brands you’ll see on store shelves. This shake is whey-based and contains 30 grams of protein per serving. If you are sensitive to whey protein, I would opt for a plant-based protein shake or powder instead. I didn’t have any gastric issues when I tested Premier Protein, but I could see someone with a more acute case of lactose intolerance or someone sensitive to certain artificial sweeteners potentially experiencing some discomfort.

My favorite flavor from this line was a chocolate peanut butter protein shake because it tastes like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup in liquid form. The flavor profile tastes rich enough that you feel like you’re drinking a sugar-packed dessert, but in reality, it has only one gram of sugar. I’ve used Premier Protein as a protein shake to hold me over in between meals, and it gets the job done thanks to its protein profile.

If you’re looking for a plant-based protein shake that has a smooth profile and is creamy and flavorful, then you’ll love Ripple’s protein shakes. They are available in vanilla, chocolate and coffee flavors and features 20 grams of protein per bottle. Ripple’s vegan protein comes from pea protein, and compared to other plant-based proteins on this list is slightly higher in calories (200 calories per serving) and sugar (9 grams per serving).

I tried each of the flavors and I was pleased with the way the brand managed to make an on-the-go plant-based shake that doesn’t have a gritty texture or lingering aftertaste. Some plant-based powders I’ve tried had a less impressive profile than the shakes Ripple has to offer. The sweetener used in this shake is derived from monk fruit, which surprised me because I wouldn’t have known had I not read the nutritional label. I’ve tried other products that include the same sweetener and it’s more detectable.

I would love to see Ripple expand its plant-based shake selection by adding ones that have extra protein and new flavors. Although it’s more of a challenge to have high-protein options with plant-based protein, it’s still possible as Huel has figured out how to do it.

Core Power became my go-to ready-made high protein shake during the third trimester of my pregnancy when I couldn’t stomach much food and while I was training for a half-marathon and looking to up my protein intake. As someone who is sometimes sensitive to dairy, I love how Fairlife ultra-filters its product to remove the lactose component found in cow’s milk in order to create the 26 grams of high-protein drink. The chocolate flavor is by far my favorite, but there are other selections to pick from like vanilla and strawberry banana. There is also a Core Power version of the shake with 42 grams of protein.

If you’re a Costco member, you’ll want to stock up on the new Nurri protein shakes. These are similar to Core Power because they are made out of ultra-filtered milk and the chocolate flavor is my favorite. It also has Core Power beat with 30 grams of protein per serving and it’s more affordable at Costco. You can pick up a 12-pack for under $30. These shakes come in an aluminum can and it’s recommended that you lightly shake it before opening. The design of the can isn’t ideal for shaking since if you shake it a touch too hard, it does spray upon opening. Although I prefer the Core Power chocolate flavor a bit more, Nurri’s is good enough to make me feel satisfied. The price tag also helps if you’re on a tight budget, but don’t want to sacrifice your daily protein quota.