Want Budget protein without sacrificing quality?Thesetop 5 budget shakes under $5deliver max protein per dollar—tested & ranked for 2024!
Best Budget Protein Shakes Under $5: Top Picks for 2024
If you’re looking forhigh-quality protein shakes without breaking the bank, you’re in luck. We’ve tested and ranked thebest affordable protein powders and shakesunder $5 per serving—perfect for muscle gain, weight loss, or general fitness.
(Prices based on current retail averages and bulk discounts.)
🥇 Top 5 Budget Protein Shakes (Under $5/Serving)
1. Optimum Nutrition (ON) Gold Standard 100% Whey
💰Price:~$0.80–$1.20 per serving (5lb tub)
✅24g protein per scoop(whey isolate & concentrate)
✅Low sugar (1g) & 120 calories
✅Best taste & mixability(chocolate & vanilla are crowd favorites)
Best For:Gym-goers who want quality at a fair price.
2. Dymatize ISO100 Hydrolyzed Whey
💰Price:~$1.50–$2.00 per serving (when on sale)
✅25g fast-absorbing protein(great post-workout)
✅Lactose-free & easy digestion
✅Fruity Pebbles & Cocoa Pebbles flavors(delicious)
Best For:Those with sensitive stomachs.
3. MyProtein Impact Whey Protein
💰Price:~$0.70–$1.00 per serving (11lb bulk)
✅21g protein per scoop(great macros)
✅Cheapest per gram of protein
✅Frequent 40–50% off sales
Best For:Bulk buyers on a tight budget.
4. MuscleTech NitroTech Pure
💰Price:~$1.20–$1.80 per serving
✅22g protein, 2g creatine per scoop(bonus muscle builder)
✅No fillers or unnecessary additives
✅Good flavor variety
Best For:Lifters wanting extra creatine boost.
5. BodyFortress Whey Protein
💰Price:~$0.50–$0.80 per serving (Walmart & Amazon)
✅30g protein per scoop(one of the highest per dollar)
✅Often sold at Walmart for cheap
⚠️Contains some fillers(but still effective)
Best For:Ultra-budget shoppers who prioritize grams of protein per dollar.
💡 How to Get the Best Deals on Protein Shakes
🔹Buy in bulk(5lb+ tubs are cheaper per serving)
🔹Subscribe & Save(Amazon offers extra discounts)
🔹Watch for Black Friday & Prime Day sales
🔹Check discount retailers(Costco, Walmart, MyProtein sales)
❓ FAQs (Budget Protein Buyer’s Guide)
Q: Is cheap protein powder effective?
A:Yes!Optimum Nutrition & MyProteinare lab-tested for quality. Avoid brands with“proprietary blends.”
Q: What’s the cheapest protein per gram?
A:MyProtein Impact Whey(~$0.03–$0.04 per gram when on sale).
Q: Can I get a complete protein under $1/serving?
A:BodyFortress & MyProteinoften drop below $1 per serving in bulk.
📊 Comparison Table: Best Budget Proteins
Brand | Protein/Scoop | Price/Serving | Best Feature |
---|---|---|---|
ON Gold Standard | 24g | ~$1.00 | Best overall quality |
Dymatize ISO100 | 25g | ~$1.75 | Fast absorption |
MyProtein Impact | 21g | ~$0.80 | Cheapest bulk option |
MuscleTech NitroTech | 22g | ~$1.50 | Includes creatine |
BodyFortress | 30g | ~$0.65 | Walmart budget pick |
🏆 Verdict: Best Budget Protein Shake?
Best Overall:Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard
Best for Digestion:Dymatize ISO100
Cheapest per Gram:MyProtein Impact Whey
Pro Tip:Mix with milk for extra protein & creaminess!