We Tested the Best Protein Powders for Building Muscle. This Specifically Optimized Whey Blend Is Our New Gold Standard
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Anyone looking to add protein powder to their diet is usually trying to pack on size. You eat the chicken and rice, and you grab a protein bar when you can. But if you're trying to hit your bodyweight in protein every day, you know that even the best Sunday meal prep has its limits. Sometimes, life simply gets in the way.
Between 5 a.m. workouts and back-to-back meetings, it's easy to hit 7 p.m. and realize you're nowhere near your protein goal. That's where a high-efficiency supplement becomes a necessity. Delivering 27 grams of fermented whey protein isolate per scoop, The BrickHouse Whey is our definitive pick for the best protein powder for muscle gain in our 2026 Fitness Awards.
Best for Muscle Gain: The BrickHouse Whey
The BrickHouse Whey is our pick for the best protein powder for muscle gain. It delivers an impressive 27 grams of fermented whey protein isolate per serving and plenty of leucine, the key amino acid that triggers muscle protein synthesis.
If you're trying to put on high-quality muscle and some real size, hitting your daily protein goal will make a big difference. During a muscle-building phase, most people need around 1.6 to 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, or roughly 0.7 to 1 gram per pound. A high-protein powder like The BrickHouse Whey makes it much easier to meet that target.
In terms of flavors, BrickHouse Nutrition currently offers Chocolate and Unflavored options. I chose the Chocolate. It mixed effortlessly in a shaker bottle and delivered a satisfying cocoa flavor. The shake leans on the sweeter side, with the stevia coming through nicely, making this a great choice if you have a sweet tooth. If you prefer a milder sweetness level, simply adding a bit more water creates a smoother and more balanced flavor.
Another great feature of this protein powder is the inclusion of digestive enzymes, a blend of proteases, cellulase, amylase, lactase, and lipase, which help break down the proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in the formula. These enzymes make the shake easier to digest and may reduce bloating or discomfort for those with sensitive stomachs.
This product also stands out for its packaging. Instead of the large plastic tubs that most companies use, BrickHouse Nutrition packages its whey in a resealable bag that's easy to store and takes up a minimal amount of space in the pantry.
Key Product Features
- Protein Per Serving: 27g
- Protein Source: Whey protein isolate
- Flavors: Chocolate, Unflavored
- Price Per Serving: $2.31 one-time purchase, $2.08 subscribe-and-save discount
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Apr 27, 2026, where it first appeared in the Health & Fitness section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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This story was originally published April 27, 2026 at 2:01 PM.