Want Budget protein without sacrificing quality? These top 5 budget shakes under $5 deliver max protein per dollar—tested & ranked for 2024!
Best Budget Protein Shakes Under $5: Top Picks for 2024
If you’re looking for high-quality protein shakes without breaking the bank, you’re in luck. We’ve tested and ranked the best affordable protein powders and shakes under $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 & MyProtein are 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 & MyProtein often 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?
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Best Overall: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard
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Best for Digestion: Dymatize ISO100
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Cheapest per Gram: MyProtein Impact Whey
Pro Tip: Mix with milk for extra protein & creaminess!