Let’s be honest. Whey protein gets all the love, but if you’re serious about building muscle while you sleep, casein deserves a spot in your stack.
This stuff digests slowly, fuels recovery through the night, and keeps you from waking up starving at 3 a.m. The problem? Half the casein powders out there taste like drywall and mix worse than cement.
So we tested the good, the bad, and the utterly chalky to find the ones that are actually worth buying. Whether you’re chasing muscle gains, trying to curb late-night cravings, or just want a protein shake that doesn’t suck, this list has something solid.
Let’s break it down.
The 15 Best Casein Protein Powders
These are the best casein protein powders on the market today.
#1 100% Grass-Fed Casein Protein by Transparent Labs
This one surprised me in the best way.
There’s only one flavor right now: Chocolate. But don’t let that fool you. It’s rich, clean, and actually enjoyable. I mixed it with milk once and immediately regretted it. Water is the move here unless you like your shakes borderline spoonable.
What really sets this apart is the sourcing. It’s casein from 100 percent grass-fed cattle, raised in the U.S., and free from hormones, antibiotics, and weird filler junk. That means you’re getting a protein that’s not just effective, but one you can actually feel good about drinking.
It also delivers a solid hit of calcium and phosphorus, both of which help support strong bones. No bloat, no cramps, no mystery gut issues after drinking it, just slow-digesting protein that does what it’s supposed to.
If you’re looking for a clean, reliable nighttime protein, Transparent Labs nails it. No gimmicks, just quality. I’d use it again without hesitation.
Pros
Coupon Code TL10 saves you 10% on your entire purchase
Kaged Casein is one of those rare proteins that just… gets it right.
At its core, you’re getting high-quality micellar casein, which digests slowly and keeps your muscles fed for hours. It’s exactly what you want before bed or anytime you know you won’t be eating for a while. It doesn’t hit you all at once like whey does. It’s more of a steady drip, one that actually works.
The blend is smart, too. They’ve added peanut flour and MCT oil powder, which sounds fancy, but here’s what it really means: it tastes better, it fuels you longer, and you’re not choking down a chalk shake pretending it’s fine.
Nutritionally, it covers your bases with calcium, iron, and potassium. Nothing crazy, just everything you’d want if you’re using this to recover properly.
And look, they don’t cut corners. Kaged third-party tests everything, so you’re not gambling with what’s in your tub. No banned junk, no sketchy fillers. Just clean, effective protein.
Also, and this actually matters, it’s more affordable than a bunch of the other options out there. You’re getting quality without lighting your wallet on fire.
If you want something that’s consistent, tastes great, and doesn’t screw around with your stomach or your budget, Kaged Casein is a no-brainer.
Landing in third place is Naked Casein, and honestly, it earns that spot without trying too hard.
There’s something kind of refreshing about how stripped-down this one is. No hype, no bright flashy labels screaming about “new advanced formulas.” Just one ingredient. Pure micellar casein. That’s it. No flavors, no sweeteners, no soy, no gluten, no hormones, nothing that doesn’t need to be there. It’s the cleanest of the clean, and the name nails it.
It’s all sourced from US farms, which is great if you’re picky about where your protein comes from. The quality is solid, and the low calorie count makes it a good option for anyone cutting or just trying to keep things tight without sacrificing recovery.
The packaging is minimalist. The branding? Same story. But there’s something about that consistency that makes you trust it more. It’s not trying to be the cool kid on the shelf. It’s just doing its job.
Now, it might not be the most exciting shake you’ve ever had. You’ll probably want to blend it with something if taste matters to you. That said, it’s versatile. You can drop it into smoothies or recipes, and they even have some on their site if you need ideas.
One last thing, buy it in bulk and you can usually score a decent discount. Direct orders from their site tend to come with perks, which is always a plus.
If you want clean, simple, and to the point, Naked Casein checks all the boxes.
Pros
Made in the USA
Use hormone free skim milk from grass-fed cows
Loaded with Essential and Branched Chain Amino Acids
Gold Standard 100% Casein from Optimum Nutrition doesn’t just talk a big game, it actually backs it up.
Sure, the name sounds like something spat out by a supplement name generator, but once you get past that, the product speaks for itself. You’re getting 24 grams of pure micellar casein per scoop, and that’s right in the sweet spot. Not too much, not too little. Just what your body needs to stay in muscle-repair mode for hours.
What makes this one stand out is how slow it digests. Optimum Nutrition claims it takes longer to break down into usable amino acids, and after using it a few times, I believe it. It feels like a steady stream of fuel rather than a quick spike. That’s exactly what you want in a nighttime protein.
Each serving also delivers nearly 5 grams of naturally occurring BCAAs and another 5 grams of glutamine and glutamic acid. That combo helps with muscle building and recovery, especially after a brutal training session.
And yeah, we’ve gotta talk about the flavors. Most casein powders give you chocolate or vanilla and call it a day. This one? It’s got eight legit options. Cookie Dough, Banana Cream, Strawberry, even Mint Chocolate Chip. Not all of them will be winners for everyone, but you’ll probably find one or two you actually look forward to.
Bottom line, Gold Standard earns its name. It’s not perfect, but it hits all the right notes for a casein powder, clean protein, solid recovery support, and flavors that don’t make you dread your nightly shake. That’s a win.
What makes a casein protein truly elite? According to Dymatize, it starts with the basics done right, pure micellar casein, processed with cross-flow microfiltration, and built by in-house research scientists who actually know their stuff.
That alone is solid, but then they take it up a notch. Every batch gets tested for banned substances, which tells you exactly who this is for. Athletes. Bodybuilders. People who actually care what they’re putting in their body because it affects how they perform, how they recover, and how they grow.
Each scoop delivers 25 grams of protein, 2.3 grams of leucine, and 5.3 grams of BCAAs. That’s not fluff. That’s fuel. It’s clean, it’s gluten-free, and every ingredient gets tested for safety and purity. Dymatize doesn’t play around.
Now about the flavors, they’ve got a few to choose from. Cookies and Cream, Rich Chocolate, Smooth Vanilla, Cinnamon Bun. Some people love that variety. Personally, I’d rather keep it plain and toss in some fruit or iced water, but hey, do what works for you. The flavors are there if you want them.
It’s also one of the easier ones to find. You can grab it online, in stores, wherever. Just maybe check a few reviews first so you’re not going in blind.
If you’re training hard and want something that’s trusted by pros and actually tastes decent, Elite Casein is a strong pick. Not overhyped. Just well-built.
Casein Pro might be the most low-key protein on this list. They’ve got a website, technically, but no real product page, no store, and the name’s floating around on half a dozen other sites too. So yeah, finding it can be weird.
That said, once you get your hands on it, the formula delivers. You’re getting 24 grams of micellar casein per scoop, built for slow, steady digestion. Perfect before bed or between meals when you want to keep muscle breakdown in check and recovery moving in the right direction.
Flavors include Chocolate Milkshake, Cookies and Cream, Vanilla Soft Serve, and Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana. They sound good, but it’s all artificially flavored, so keep that in mind. Also, allergy warning, this one’s made in a facility that handles just about everything.
Still, if you’re after a nighttime casein that tastes good and does the job, Casein Pro holds its own. Just be ready to do a little digging to find it.
MuscleTech Nitro-Tech Casein Gold looks flashy, sure, but it actually backs it up. You get 24 grams of slow-digesting micellar casein per scoop, designed to fuel your muscles for up to 8 hours. Perfect before bed or during long gaps between meals.
What really surprised me was how smooth it mixes. No grainy texture, no sludge — just a clean shake that tastes good without being loaded with sugar or junk. Chocolate Supreme is a standout, and the blend holds its own on both taste and performance.
It’s not just another pretty tub. This stuff is built for recovery and long-haul gains.
Ascent’s Native Fuel Casein is still fairly new to the scene, but it’s already turning heads. Athletes swear by it, and yeah, their marketing is everywhere. But does it actually hold up?
On paper, the numbers are solid. You’re getting 25 grams of protein, 5 grams of BCAAs, and 2.7 grams of leucine. It’s gluten-free, made in the US, sport-certified, and skips the artificial junk. So the foundation is legit.
Flavors include Chocolate, Vanilla Bean, and Chocolate Peanut Butter, and you can grab either a 2 or 4-pound tub. It might not be as revolutionary as the hype suggests, but it’s a clean, well-made casein that gets the job done.
I really wanted to bump Six Star Casein higher on the list. The flavor is solid, the packaging looks sharp, and it’s backed by some decent numbers. But the recovery performance just doesn’t quite hit the mark.
You’re getting 24 grams of protein and about 5 grams of BCAAs per scoop, which is pretty standard. Nothing flashy, but it covers the basics. The Triple Chocolate flavor was a nice surprise though — developed with the American Masters of Taste, and it actually tastes like something you’d want to drink.
It uses pure casein for that slow-digesting effect, great for overnight muscle repair. Just know it’s only sold in 2-pound tubs, and if you’ve got food allergies, this one may be a pass. It’s a decent intro to casein, but not quite built for the big leagues.
Pros
24 grams of protein
Zero artificial ingredients
Cons
No other flavors available.
Does not mix well with liquids.
#10 Casein+ by Legion Athletics
Casein+ answers the question, ‘is there better quality casein outside the US?’ with a profound yes. Turns out, pure and natural micellar casein protein can be had from Ireland and its small dairy farms.
What’s so special about Casein+ aside from where it gets the casein source? Legion Athletics goes the roundabout route to explain why you need more protein in your diet, then offers their product as a great choice for healthy protein shakes.
Casein+ is 100 percent natural and thus doesn’t contain artificial fillers, dyes and sweeteners. Its flavors (Strawberry, Banana Cream Pie, Milk Chocolate and Vanilla) are naturally sweetened and work well even when mixed with just iced water.
In terms of being free from GMO, contaminants and all that Casein+ gets my vote. It’s one of the cleanest casein powder supplements I’ve had, and the taste isn’t too bad either. There’s also the SDAS, or Sustainable Dairy Assurance Scheme certification which all but assures that what you see is what you get.
What I don’t like about Casein+ is the absence of digestive enzymes and vitamins and minerals. Plus, it doesn’t taste as good compared to the top brands in the list. Lastly, the price can make you think twice about investing in the supplement for the long term.
#11 Iso Casein PM by Beyond Raw
Coming in at number 11 is ISO Casein PM from manufacturer Beyond Raw. It’s a curious title and makes you think about what PM and ISO represents. Well, let’s do some digging, shall we?
The ISO, as it turns out is a form of casein isolate. As for the PM, it’s not explained but if I had to make a guess then it’s to remind people to take it during nighttime. In the product description, it offers restful sleep support by means of native micellar casein, slow protein (at 25g per scoop) for building skeletal muscles and a welcome dose of Suntheanine and melatonin.
The addition of melatonin is certainly a nice, unique touch. The manufacturer, Beyond Raw has also listed 5.5 grams of BCAAs for a faster metabolism. You get to choose from two basic flavors, Vanilla or Chocolate depending on how you like your protein shake to taste.
My caveat with Iso Casein PM is that it contains carrageenan, a compound that’s linked with bloating, digestive problems and inflammation. What’s more, some users reported having trouble getting quality sleep after some time taking the supplement.
#12 Grass-Fed Micellar Casein by Muscle Feast
Having the same title as my number 1 casein protein powder doesn’t necessarily equate to greatness. Case in point- Muscle Feast’s Grass-Fed Hormone isn’t as good as 100% Grass-Fed Casein Protein by Transparent Labs’ is.
For one, the amount of protein per serving isn’t as much as I’d like. The BCAAs’ aren’t quite up to standards (at just 3.4 grams). Muscle Feast tries to make up for it with bioactive compounds such as vitamin D, calcium and a bunch of essential amino acids, but those aren’t as important as having the right casein dosage.
One thing Muscle Feast does right is sourcing its casein from grass-fed cows. This means you won’t get any unwanted antibiotics, hormones and impurities in your casein supplement and can focus on your muscle-building goals. As for flavoring and size, you can choose Vanilla, Chocolate or Unflavored and get it in 2 or 4 lb containers.
#13 Casein Protein by Nutricoast
Nutricost’s Casein Protein has a simple label and explains clearly and concisely what’s in each container. You get 26 servings of 24 grams of casein in a 2 lbs jar, and 64 servings of 24 grams of casein in the 5 lbs jar.
Turn the container around and you’ll get to see the ingredients behind the product. Micellar Casein is in full force here, but wait- where’s the BCAAs?
Barring the amino acids aside (which I don’t really get), the product manages to include calcium to build strong bones to go along with that muscle. Other than that there’s nothing else to be excited about.
Oh yeah, and there’s the 90-day money-back guarantee if you need to return the product. Nutricost is nice enough to provide the refund minus shipping and handling.
#14 Casein by Promix
Promix Nutrition’s Casein is somewhat a strange contender in our top casein protein powders list. Yes, the price is actually better than most and you get a slew of high-quality ingredients, mainly the full spectrum of casein (kappa, beta and alpha), but what looks amazing on paper doesn’t necessarily translate well to real life.
To start, the effects don’t last as long as advertised and ‘full spectrum’ could very well be a different meaning. I didn’t notice any difference even when I took it for a week. The manufacturer’s website didn’t help, either- there’s a lack of information and most of the information there was generic.
As far as serving size and flavors go the choices are pretty generic. You get the Unflavored version or the Chocolate one, then pick whether to get the 1 lb container or the 5 lb one. The price is also a bit on the steep side, and you can definitely get a higher-quality casein supplement with that money.
#15 Combat 100% Casein by MusclePharm
Now we’re finally down to the last entry on the list, and it’s the intimidating Combat 100% Casein.
The army green and black combination is certainly easy on the eyes, and there’s more than enough information on the label to entice you to buy. It’s banned substance tested and billed as ‘the athlete’s complete protein’. You can drink it pre-workout, post or just before going to bed.
The ingredients are hidden under a digestive blend, but with a quick check, these are what came up- whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, micellar casein, egg albumin and BCAAs, among others.
Combat 100% falls short in performance though, notably in the taste and dosage department. It’s generally not a good idea to mix whey and casein as the effects of whey will be mitigated.
How We Picked And Tested The Best Casein Protein Powder
Choosing the best casein protein powder was a task we approached with dedication, care, and something we jokingly refer to as the “four Fs”: the supplement’s formulation, flavor options, financial cost, and faithfulness of the brand. Let me take you behind the curtain to see how we dug into each of these factors.
Formulation
We sought products that were rich in protein, aiming for at least 20 grams per serving. NOW Sport’s casein, at 19 grams per serving, was an outlier, but we took note that its serving size was smaller.
Adjusted to a typical scoop, it would measure up nicely. We didn’t just stop at protein content, though; we also looked into the quality of the protein and any additional ingredients, seeking understanding in their role and benefit.
Flavor Options
Tastes vary, and we wanted to cater to them all. We hunted down a variety of flavors and also sought unflavored options for those who like their protein to blend quietly into their beverages. We believe the best flavor is a personal preference, so we aimed to provide a spectrum.
That said, if all the flavors taste terrible then what’s the point?
Price
Health and fitness shouldn’t break the bank. That’s a principle we hold dear. So, we strived to find options that fit various budgets, looking for ways you might save, such as subscriptions or free shipping. We wanted everyone to find something they could afford, without sacrificing quality.
The Faithfulness of the Brand:
Trust is big for us. We looked for brands that reflected that, peering into manufacturing and testing protocols, and checking if products were third-party tested.
We explored how easy it was to reach customer support and what the return policies and guarantees were like. We didn’t just take the brand’s word for it; we looked at reviews across different platforms to get the real scoop.
In the end, what drove our selection process was a balance of these factors, aiming to provide a guide that was not just comprehensive but also compassionate to different needs and preferences. It’s a list we stand behind, with a method that was as thoughtful as it was thorough.
Why Use Casein Protein Powder?
By now you should have an idea of what casein can do for you and your bodybuilding or athletic goals.
If not, think of casein as the Robin to whey’s Batman. They’re partners when it comes to promoting muscle growth and complement each other in many ways.
The main difference between them is the timing of intake. With whey, you’d typically take them pre-workout as they’re fast-burning fuel, whereas casein is taken way later (think bedtime) as they release amino acids over a sustained period of time.
Casein also has the benefit of giving your body what it needs to cut the recovery period by a huge margin. If you’re looking for a well-rounded approach to turning fat into lean muscle then I’d suggest getting the right casein protein powder for the job.
What is Casein Protein?
Casein is a dairy-based protein that digests slowly, giving your body a steady stream of amino acids over time. Unlike whey, which hits fast and fades quick, casein is the long-game player—perfect for overnight recovery or long gaps between meals.
It’s packed with BCAAs and helps prevent muscle breakdown, which is why it’s often called anti-catabolic. Bottom line? It keeps your protein levels steady so your body stays in repair-and-grow mode longer.
What is the Best Time to Take Casein Powder?
Whey and casein aren’t interchangeable — they each play their own role.
Whey is your go-to pre-workout. It hits fast, fuels performance, and helps you push through tough sessions. Casein is the recovery guy. It works slow and steady, which makes it perfect for nighttime.
If you’re stacking them, timing matters. Whey before you train. Casein before bed. Simple, smart, effective.
Any Side Effects with Casein Protein?
For the most part, casein protein is easy on the body. If it’s a clean product—no weird fillers, no artificial junk—most people won’t notice any side effects at all.
That said, not all casein powders are created equal. Cheaper ones that sneak in gums, soy, or other additives can leave you feeling bloated or gassy. And yeah, there’s a lot of nonsense online about how high protein intake is “bad for you,” but if you’re healthy and sticking to normal amounts, the science just doesn’t back that up.
The real trouble comes when people grab whatever’s cheapest or most hyped without checking the label. That’s when taste goes sideways and your stomach starts fighting back. So don’t just grab the first tub you see.
Now, if you’ve got liver or kidney issues, that’s different. You’ll want to talk to your doctor before adding any extra protein into the mix. But for everyone else? You’re looking at a supplement that’s not just safe, but also packs a bunch of bonus perks—like better recovery, fat loss support, and even some help for your immune system.
Get a good one and it’ll treat you right.
Casein Protein vs Whey Protein – What’s the Difference?
Casein is classified as an ‘anti-catabolic’ compound because it prevents muscle tissue breakdown by providing a steady supply of amino acids. During instances where your body starts eating its own muscle tissue for fuel, casein saves the day, thanks to its inherent digestive mechanism.
Whey is termed ‘anabolic’, or an active muscle-building compound because it provides a welcome boost in the blood amino acid department, a necessary process in protein synthesis.
Looking at it microscopically, protein synthesis must be higher than the rate of muscle breakdown to be successful in growing muscle. The one-two punch of whey and casein work together to make this happen.
Here are a few more things you should know about whey and casein breakdown. Whey, when taken is absorbed quickly and metabolized in just 20 minutes or so. Your body will use it to produce protein or through oxidation. The rush of amino acids facilitate muscle protein synthesis and puts you well above a catabolic state, such as when you’re lifting weights or exercising.
Casein, when taken will require about 3 to 4 hours to reach protein synthesis and blood amino acid peak. However, it won’t spike as much as whey, which is a good thing. Protein synthesis won’t dip as much that it’s lower than the rate of muscle breakdown, and therefore protect the muscles you’ve worked so hard to build.
How Much Does Casein Protein Cost?
When you’re shopping for casein protein powder, don’t just look at the sticker on the container. Think about what you’re getting for that price. It’s more helpful to break it down by serving. Most casein powders are going to fall between $1.00 and $2.00 per serving, and in our search, we found the average was about $1.61.
Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Most of our top choices were right around that average, give or take $0.40. But what made some more expensive than others? It usually came down to what was on the label.
If you’re looking at a product with a lot of transparency, natural ingredients, and an extensive list of what’s inside, you’re probably going to pay a bit more. These extras cost money, and many folks find them worth it. On the other hand, if you’re going with a more basic casein, without all the bells and whistles, you’ll likely find a more budget-friendly price.
It’s not just about dollars and cents, though. It’s about finding what meets your needs and fits your wallet. That’s the real value.
Is Casein Protein Lactose-Free?
Technically, the answer is yes. The simplest answer I can come up with is that lactose is a sugar, while casein is a protein found in milk.
Casein protein is lactose-free since it’s a different compound altogether. Thus, if you’re lactose intolerant you can take casein protein supplements knowing well that you won’t have a reaction. The only problem is, you’ll have to do your research on which product has pure casein and zero milk by-products.
Check the manufacturer’s website to see if their products contain traces of lactose. The best ones won’t have additives, fillers and ingredients that could cause an allergic reaction.
What To Consider When Buying Casein Protein Powders
So, you’re thinking about adding casein to your supplement routine, or maybe you’ve been using it for some time. Either way, there are a couple of things worth mulling over before you hit the “buy” button.
Most Casein Powders are Micellar Casein
First, let’s clear up something about micellar casein. You might see some companies making a big fuss about how their product contains only micellar casein, which is enclosed in a globular structure called a micelle. It might sound fancy, but don’t be too impressed. Most casein powders use micellar casein; it’s really not that uncommon. Other types like calcium caseinate and hydrolyzed casein are more processed, so sticking with micellar is usually your best bet.
Casein Pudding Is A Thing
Now, here’s a fun part: casein’s versatility in the kitchen. Unlike whey, you can whip casein into a pudding-like treat. All you need is a little water or milk (milk’s tastier, if you ask me) mixed in a 3:2 ratio with your casein. Stir it for a bit, and voila, you’ve got pudding! Want to take it up a notch? Freeze it for a few hours, and it turns into ice cream. Just make sure to pick a flavor of casein that’ll work well for this kind of culinary experimentation. Enjoy!
Conclusion
So there you have it- a complete guide on the best casein protein powders to supplement your muscle growth goals.
Casein plus whey protein in its purest form is a combination that’s hard to beat in the muscle-growing department. As long as you’re supplementing with whey, why not maximize potential by having casein act as your balancer in off-training hours?
It certainly won’t hurt to try, and the gains will speak for themselves over time. If you’d have to choose one, then I’d recommend 100% Grass-Fed Casein Protein by Transparent Labs.
Ryan is a former college wrestler and lifelong fitness fanatic with over 25 years in the industry. He’s run half marathons, tackled mud runs, placed in body transformation contests, and coached everything from wrestling to girls’ soccer.
Along the way, he’s tested hundreds of supplements and built a deep well of supplement knowledge. His work has appeared in Muscle & Strength, Testosterone Junkie, The Sport Review, and more. Today, he’s the editor-in-chief of this site, still training hard and helping others reach their goals. Connect with him on LinkedIn below.
Naked Casein is the best overall I dont care what this site says. Is pure as hell with no fillers or artificial stuff.