Head-to-head comparison updated for 2026. See which protein product comes out on top.
| Attribute | ||
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Levels | Optimum Nutrition |
| Protein / serving | 24gBest | 24g |
| Calories / serving | 130 | 120Best |
| Fat / serving | 2.5g | 1.5gBest |
| Carbs / serving | 3gBest | 3g |
| Sugar / serving | 0gBest | 1g |
| Price / serving | $0.79Best | $0.86 |
| Price / gram protein | $0.0329Best | $0.0360 |
| Overall score | 80/100Best | 76/100 |
| Value score | 82/100Best | 78/100 |
| Purity score | 82/100Best | 73/100 |
| Protein source | Whey Concentrate | Whey Blend |
| Sweetener | stevia | sucralose |
| Certifications | Non-GMO | Informed Sport |
| Dietary tags | Gluten-Free, Soy-Free | Gluten-Free |
| Third-party tested | Yes | Yes |
| Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Levels Grass-Fed Whey is the product that proves you do not have to choose between clean ingredients and good value. At $0.79 per serving from the 5 lb tub, it is one of the most affordable grass-fed proteins available — cheaper than many conventional whey options. The 76-serving container means it lasts over two months of daily use.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey is the best-selling whey protein powder in the world, and for good reason. With 24g of protein per scoop from a tri-blend of whey isolate, concentrate, and peptides, it delivers a well-rounded amino acid profile including 5.5g of BCAAs and 11g of EAAs per serving. The Double Rich Chocolate flavor is consistently praised as one of the best-tasting protein powders on the market.
Levels Grass-Fed Whey Protein edges ahead with an overall score of 80 vs 76. For value, Levels Grass-Fed Whey Protein wins with a 82/100 value score.
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Last updated: March 2026