Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey
Budget-conscious gym-goers who want proven, great-tasting protein at the best value
Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder
Budget-conscious organic shoppers (note: Consumer Reports heavy metal flag)
Score Comparison
Pricing & Features
Making Your Decision
When to Choose Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey
Budget-conscious gym-goers who want proven, great-tasting protein at the best value
Gold Standard has been the world's best-selling protein powder for over a decade, and the value proposition is hard to beat — 74 servings at $1.08 each with Informed Choice certification. The trade-off is artificial ingredients and a whey blend rather than pure isolate.
Strengths
- Informed Choice certified — the most popular protein powder worldwide for a reason
- Outstanding value at $1.08/serving with 74 servings in the 5lb size
- Excellent taste and mixability across 20+ flavor options
Limitations
- Contains artificial flavors (acesulfame potassium) and soy lecithin
- Uses whey blend (isolate, concentrate, peptides) rather than pure isolate
- Does not publish independent lab test results or batch-level COAs
When to Choose Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder
Budget-conscious organic shoppers (note: Consumer Reports heavy metal flag)
Orgain offers affordable USDA Organic plant protein with good taste, but Consumer Reports found lead at 143% over CA Prop 65 limits. The organic certification and pleasant flavor make it appealing, but the heavy metal data is a significant concern that health-conscious buyers should weigh carefully.
Strengths
- USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified with 21g plant-based protein
- Good taste consistently praised in user reviews for a plant-based powder
- Affordable at $1.80/serving compared to premium plant-based competitors
Limitations
- Consumer Reports found 0.72μg lead/serving — 143% over CA Prop 65 limit
- Uses organic erythritol and stevia which some find has an aftertaste
- No NSF or Informed Sport certification for banned substance testing
