Choosing your first protein powder is mostly about avoiding an expensive guess. There are dozens of flavours and several different formats, but you do not need to understand every label before making a sensible first choice.
Start with the basics: pick a type that suits how you want to drink it, check the serving information and try a small format before committing to a large tub.
Choose the style of shake first
Standard whey usually makes a creamy, milkshake-style drink. Clear whey is lighter and more juice-like. Plant proteins offer a non-dairy route, although their texture and flavour can differ from whey.
If you are unsure between the two whey formats, our whey versus clear whey guide explains the practical differences.
Do not buy the biggest tub first
A larger tub can work out cheaper per serving, but that only matters once you know you like the product. A single-serving sachet or smaller pack gives you a much cheaper way to test the flavour, sweetness, texture and mixability.
Our protein samples range brings together small formats from several brands. The protein sample guide also explains how to build a useful mixed order rather than buying ten versions of the same flavour.
Read the serving information, not just the front
Compare the amount of protein with the stated serving size and number of servings in the pack. A larger scoop can produce a larger headline number without necessarily making the tub better value.
Check the ingredients and allergen information as well. Whey comes from milk, and individual products can contain other allergens or ingredients that matter to you.
Flavour matters more than people admit
The best-value tub is not good value if you stop using it because you dislike the flavour. Start with flavours you already enjoy in food and drinks, then use samples to explore anything more adventurous.
Per4m Advanced Whey is a popular starting point because the range covers a broad mix of familiar and dessert-style flavours. You can try the 30g sachets before deciding whether a full tub is right for you.
How much should you use?
Protein powder is simply a convenient way to add protein to your diet. The useful amount depends on what you already eat, your body size, training and goals, so there is no universal number of shakes that every beginner needs.
Follow the serving directions on the product you buy. If you need personalised advice because of a medical condition, allergy, pregnancy or a specific dietary goal, speak to an appropriate healthcare or nutrition professional.
A sensible first order
Choose three or four samples in flavours you would genuinely drink, include more than one brand if you want to compare texture, and make a note of which ones you would happily buy again. Once you have a favourite, compare the available tub sizes by cost per stated serving.
You can browse our whey protein range or see the current protein powders under £40 if budget is the main constraint.
Want to compare more options? Browse our protein range.
