Head-to-head comparison updated for 2026. See which protein product comes out on top.
| Attribute | ||
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Optimum Nutrition | Vega |
| Protein / serving | 24g | 30gBest |
| Calories / serving | 120Best | 160 |
| Fat / serving | 1.5gBest | 2g |
| Carbs / serving | 3gBest | 6g |
| Sugar / serving | 1gBest | 1g |
| Price / serving | $0.86Best | $1.28 |
| Price / gram protein | $0.0360Best | $0.0426 |
| Overall score | 76/100 | 77/100Best |
| Value score | 78/100Best | 62/100 |
| Purity score | 73/100 | 98/100Best |
| Protein source | Whey Blend | Plant Blend |
| Sweetener | sucralose | stevia |
| Certifications | Informed Sport | NSF Certified, Non-GMO |
| Dietary tags | Gluten-Free | Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free |
| Third-party tested | Yes | Yes |
| Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
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.
Vega Sport Premium Protein is the top choice for plant-based athletes who need serious protein per serving. With 30g of protein from a four-source plant blend, it matches many whey proteins in protein content while being completely vegan. The NSF Certified for Sport designation means it is rigorously tested for banned substances, making it one of the very few plant proteins suitable for competitive athletes.
Vega Sport Premium Protein takes the lead with an overall score of 77 vs 76. For value, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey wins with a 78/100 value score.
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Last updated: March 2026
