How do I compare protein powder prices?

Calculate price per 100g protein: (Container price ÷ total protein grams) × 100. This standardizes comparison across all container sizes and protein concentrations. Lower numbers equal better value.

Under $6 per 100g is good value, under $5.50 is excellent.

Serving sizes are arbitrary—always calculate by total protein in the container.

How do I compare protein powder prices?

Calculate price per 100g protein: (Container price ÷ total protein grams) × 100. This standardizes comparison across all container sizes and protein concentrations. Lower numbers equal better value.

Why is price per serving misleading?

Serving sizes are arbitrary and vary widely between brands (20g to 50g scoops). One product might have 30 servings at 20g each, while another has 20 servings at 30g each—same amount of product, but the 'per serving' price looks different.

Does more expensive protein powder mean better quality?

Not necessarily. Premium pricing often reflects brand marketing, flavor systems, and packaging rather than protein quality. Many budget options use identical protein from the same manufacturers as expensive brands.

How do I compare whey vs plant protein prices?

Use the same price per 100g protein calculation for both. Plant proteins typically cost $1-3 more per 100g than whey due to more expensive raw materials and processing. Factor this into your decision.

How to Compare Protein Powder Prices: The Complete Guide

Walk down any supplement aisle and you'll see protein powders ranging from $20 to $80+. But the sticker price tells you almost nothing about value. Here's how to actually compare protein powder prices so you don't get ripped off.

The Problem with Container Price

Comparing protein powders by container price is like comparing cars by gas tank size—it just doesn't make sense. Protein containers vary in:

Container weight: 1lb to 10lb tubs
Serving size: 20g to 50g scoops (brands choose this number!)
Protein concentration: 15g to 30g per serving
Servings per container: Can vary wildly even for same weight

A $40 container might contain 750g of protein, while a $35 container only has 500g. The "cheaper" option actually costs 40% more per unit of protein.

The Only Metric That Matters: Price Per 100g Protein

Price per 100g protein standardizes comparison across all products. Calculate it: (Container price ÷ total protein grams) × 100. This metric reveals the true cost regardless of serving size games or container weight tricks. Lower numbers equal better value.

Price per 100g protein standardizes comparison across all products. It answers a simple question: "How much am I paying for 100 grams of actual protein?"

Step-by-Step Calculation

Step 1: Find the Nutrition Label

Locate the Supplement Facts or Nutrition Facts label. You need three numbers:

Serving size: Usually listed in grams (e.g., "30g")
Protein per serving: Usually 15-30g
Servings per container: Usually 20-70

Step 2: Calculate Total Protein in the Container

Multiply protein per serving by servings per container:

Total Protein = Protein per Serving × Servings per Container

Example: 25g × 30 = 750g total protein

Step 3: Divide Price by Total Protein

Take the container price and divide by the total protein grams:

Price Per Gram = Container Price ÷ Total Protein

Example: $40 ÷ 750g = $0.053 per gram

Step 4: Convert to Price Per 100g

Multiply by 100 to get the standardized metric:

Price Per 100g = Price Per Gram × 100

Example: $0.053 × 100 = $5.33 per 100g protein

Real-World Example

Let's compare two protein powders:

Product A

Price: $40
Container: 2lb (907g)
Serving size: 30g
Protein per serving: 25g
Servings: ~30
Total protein: 750g
$5.33 per 100g protein

Product B

Price: $35
Container: 2lb (907g)
Serving size: 35g
Protein per serving: 24g
Servings: ~26
Total protein: 624g
$5.61 per 100g protein

Product A costs $5 more but is actually better value—you get more protein for your money. This is why the calculation matters.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Comparing by "Cost Per Serving"

Brands choose serving sizes. A larger scoop makes the "per serving" protein look lower, while a smaller scoop makes it look higher. Always calculate by total protein in the container.

Mistake 2: Assuming Larger Containers Are Better Value

Usually true, but not always. Calculate the math—sometimes two smaller containers cost less per 100g than one bulk container due to sales and pricing strategies.

Mistake 3: Ignoring Fillers

Some products have significant calories from fats and carbs. You're paying for non-protein content. Check calories per 100g protein to assess purity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good price per 100g protein?

Anything under $6 per 100g is good value. The top 10% of products fall under $5.50 per 100g. If you're paying over $9 per 100g, you're getting poor value unless you have specific dietary requirements.

Is unflavored protein always better value?

Nearly always. Unflavored products skip expensive flavoring systems, sweeteners, and gums. This typically saves $1-3 per 100g compared to flavored versions of the same product.

How does plant protein compare to whey on price?

Plant proteins typically cost $2-4 more per 100g than whey due to more expensive raw materials and processing. When comparing, expect to pay more for vegan options—but still calculate the math to find the best value among plant proteins.

Use Our Comparison Tool

Don't want to do the math? Our protein powder comparison tool automatically calculates price per 100g protein for 70+ products. Filter by type, sweetener, and caloric efficiency to find your best value.