The 10 Best Low Carb and Keto-Friendly Protein Powders

The Fast Facts

• Protein powders provide a simple way to supplement your nutrition.
• We’ve identified top low-carbohydrate protein powders, many suitable for keto diets.
• Our reviewers favored Momentous for its silky texture and Gainful’s tailored flavor options.

If you follow a low-carb or ketogenic (keto) eating plan, protein powders can be a handy way to boost your intake.

Although whole foods can usually supply enough protein, powders make it easy to increase protein quickly.

Picking the appropriate powder for a low-carb or keto lifestyle can be tricky because there are many types and sources available.

Most protein powders are low in carbs, yet some are derived from foods that naturally contain carbohydrates or are mixed with carb-containing ingredients.

“Many protein powders are lower in carbohydrates; it typically depends on their source—dairy, pea, or soy—and whether sugars are added to improve taste,” says Cari Riker, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes care and education specialist based in Nashville, Tennessee.

Below are the best protein powders for a low-carb diet we located; several are also appropriate for keto eating plans.

A quick look at the best low carb protein powders

Skip to the product reviews if you want details.

Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate

• Carbs per serving:1 g
• Available flavors:Chocolate Peanut Butter, Chocolate, Pineapple Whip, Strawberry Milkshake, Unflavored, Vanilla
• Highlights:non-GMO, gluten-free, third-party verified for purity and strength

Pricing guide

• $ = under $1 per serving
• $$ = $1–$1.99 per serving
• $$$ = over $2 per serving

HealthEH’s picks of the best low carb protein powders

Best whey protein isolate

Klean Athlete Klean Isolate

• Protein type:whey
• Number of servings:20 per container
• Serving size:1 scoop (22.3 g)
• Nutrition stats per serving:Calories: 85, Total carbs: 1 g, Added sugar: 0 g, Fat: 0 g, Protein: 20 g
• Price per serving:$$$

*Price may vary.

HealthEH’s review

Klean Athlete Klean Isolate is an unflavored whey protein isolate delivering 20 g of protein per scoop. With only 1 g of carbs per serving, it’s well-suited for low-carb eaters.

Whey protein isolate is a more refined form of whey, containing a higher protein percentage and fewer carbs than whey concentrate, which makes it a common pick for those limiting carbs.

That said, both whey concentrate and isolate tend to be low in total carbs, and the practical difference between them is often small.

The unflavored Klean Isolate blends easily into baked goods, smoothies, or beverages without imparting extra taste. Flavored options (Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry) are available but typically contain slightly more carbs.

This powder is NSF Certified for Sport, gluten-free, and formulated without artificial sweeteners or flavorings.

Pros & cons

• NSF Certified for Sport
• no artificial sweeteners or flavors
• gluten-free

• costly

Product details

• Certifications :NSF Certified for Sport
• Available flavors :Unflavored
• Returns :eligible for refund or replacement if damaged on arrival
• Shipping :free shipping for Prime members

Best whey protein concentrate

True Athlete Natural Whey Protein Powder

• Protein type:whey
• Number of servings:24 per container
• Serving size:2 scoops (26.7 g)
• Nutrition stats per serving:(Unflavored) Calories: 110, Total carbs: 4 g, Added sugar: 0 g, Fat: 2 g, Protein: 20 g
• Price per serving:$$

*Price may vary.

HealthEH’s review

True Athlete Natural Whey Protein delivers 20 g of protein and about 2 g of carbs per serving. The unflavored variety includes probiotics, which may support digestion.

This powder is available unflavored, is gluten-free, and made without artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors. It does contain soy in addition to milk-derived whey, so it’s unsuitable for those with soy or dairy allergies.

True Athlete products are third-party tested and NSF Certified for Sport. Flavored options include Chocolate and Vanilla.

Pros & cons

• NSF Certified for Sport
• gluten-free
• no artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors

• not suitable for people with soy allergy

Product details

• Certifications :NSF Certified for Sport
• Available flavors :Unflavored, Vanilla, Chocolate
• Returns :returns within 30 days
• Shipping :free shipping on orders over $35

Best casein protein

NOW Sports Micellar Casein Protein Powder

• Protein type:casein
• Number of servings:34 per container
• Serving size:1 scoop (24 g)
• Nutrition stats per serving:Calories: 90, Total carbs: <1 g, Added sugar: 0 g, Fat: 0.5 g, Protein: 19 g
• Price per serving:$$

*Price may vary.

HealthEH’s review

Casein is commonly taken before sleep because it digests slowly and may help reduce muscle breakdown overnight, though it’s useful anytime to raise protein total.

NOW Sports Micellar Casein is unflavored, making it easy to incorporate into smoothies, baked goods, snacks, and other recipes.

This powder is produced without artificial sweeteners or gluten-containing ingredients, but it’s not explicitly labeled gluten-free and is made in a facility that handles wheat and other allergens, so those with severe gluten sensitivity should be cautious.

NOW Sports Micellar Casein is independently tested and carries Informed Sport certification.

Pros & cons

• Informed Sport Certified
• made without artificial sweeteners
• versatile for baking and recipes

• only offered in one flavor

Product details

• Certifications :Informed Sport certified, certified kosher, non-GMO project verified
• Available flavors :Unflavored
• Returns :returns within 30 days
• Shipping :free shipping on orders over $50

Best egg white protein

NOW Sports Egg White Protein

• Protein type:egg
• Number of servings:27 per container
• Serving size:1/4 cup (20 g)
• Nutrition stats per serving:(Unflavored) Calories: 70, Total carbs: 1 g, Added sugar: 0 g, Fat: 0 g, Protein: 15 g
• Price per serving:$$

*Price may vary.

HealthEH’s review

Egg whites are a highly digestible  protein source, and NOW Sports Egg White Protein gives 15 g of protein with only 1 g of carbs per serving, making it suitable for low-carb plans.

Although eggs are not typically associated with carbs, both yolk and white contain tiny amounts; thus, egg-based powders will have trace carbs in each serving.

NOW Sports Egg White Protein is available in Creamy Chocolate, Creamy Vanilla, and unflavored varieties; the unflavored option is ideal for recipes since it won’t change flavor.

Like other NOW Sports items, this powder is made without gluten-containing ingredients but is produced in a facility that handles common allergens such as wheat.

The powder is independently tested and Informed Sport Certified.

Pros & cons

• Informed Sport Certified
• made without artificial sweeteners
• great for baking and recipes
• egg whites are easily digested

• eggs contain small amounts of carbs

Product details

• Certifications :Informed Sport Certified
• Available flavors :Creamy Chocolate, Creamy Vanilla, Unflavored
• Returns :returns within 30 days
• Shipping :free shipping over $30

Best pea protein

Promix Vegan Protein Powder

• Protein type:pea
• Number of servings:35 to 38 per container
• Serving size:2 scoops (30 g)
• Nutrition stats per serving:(Unflavored) Calories: 115, Total carbs: 2 g, Added sugar: 0 g, Fat: 0 g, Protein: 25 g
• Price per serving:$$

*Price may vary.

HealthEH’s review

Promix Vegan Protein is an allergen-friendly and gluten-free option. It’s offered in several flavors including Raw Chocolate, Chocolate, Vanilla, and a Vegan + B12 unflavored version.

All flavored Promix varieties include added B12, providing 200% of the daily value. Flavored options are sweetened with monk fruit.

Pros & cons

• dairy-, soy-, and gluten-free
• no artificial sweeteners or flavors
• every flavor contains B12

• some reviewers find the unflavored version bland

Product details

• Certifications :third-party tested for purity and potency
• Available flavors :Unflavored, French Vanilla, Raw Chocolate
• Returns :returns within 90 days
• Shipping :free shipping on orders over $90

Best rice blend protein powder

Momentous 100% Plant Protein Powder

• Protein type:pea, rice
• Number of servings:20 per container
• Serving size:1 scoop (37.7 g)
• Nutrition stats per serving:(Chocolate) Calories: 130, Total carbs: 6 g, Added sugar: 2 g, Fat: 2.5 g, Protein: 20 g
• Price per serving:$$$

*Price may vary.

HealthEH’s review

This plant-based blend is offered in Chocolate and Vanilla Chai.

It has slightly more carbs than some entries on this list but remains modest at 9 g per serving total. The mix includes 2.5 g fat and is sweetened with organic cane sugar and steviol glycosides.

The formula also contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), commonly used by athletes and bodybuilders.

Momentous is third-party tested and carries both NSF Certified for Sport and Informed Sport certifications.

What our tester says

Registered dietitian Kelli McGrane sampled the Chocolate flavor and recommends it.

“I usually avoid powders sold in bags because they tend to be messier, but this one wasn’t difficult to scoop from the bag. It mixed quickly in a shaker bottle and produced a smooth, creamy texture with no clumps,” Kelli said.

On taste, she added, “The chocolate was well-balanced, not overly sweet, and had a rich cocoa profile. There was a mild aftertaste at first—common with many protein powders—but it faded by the end. I’d happily purchase this again.”

Pros & cons

• NSF Certified for Sport
• Informed Sport Certified
• gluten-free

• pricey
• contains added sugar

Product details

• Certifications :NSF Certified for Sport, non-GMO
• Available flavors :Vanilla Spice, Chocolate, Cappuccino
• Returns :no returns or refunds
• Shipping :free shipping for Prime members

Best soy protein

NOW Sports Soy Protein Isolate

• Protein type:soy
• Number of servings:23 per container
• Serving size:1/3 cup (24 g)
• Nutrition stats per serving:Calories: 90, Total carbs: 0 g, Added sugar: 0 g, Fat: 0.5g, Protein: 20 g
• Price per serving:$$

*Price may vary.

HealthEH’s review

NOW Sports Soy Protein Isolate contains only soy protein isolate as its ingredient. It’s notable for having zero carbohydrates and providing 20 g of protein per serving.

The unflavored powder is free from gluten, dairy, eggs, and nuts, making it suitable for many dietary restrictions.

Now recommends mixing 1/3 cup daily into water, milk, or another beverage.

This soy isolate is third-party tested and carries Informed Sport certification.

Pros & cons

• Informed Sport Certified
• no artificial sweeteners
• great for recipes and baking
• budget-friendly

• some flavored versions contain more carbs

Product details

• Certifications :Informed Sport Certified, certified vegan, certified kosher, non-GMO project verified
• Available flavors :Unflavored
• Returns :returns within 30 days
• Shipping :free shipping on orders over $50

Best collagen

Gnarly Sports Collagen Pro

• Protein type:collagen
• Number of servings:30 per container
• Serving size:2 scoops (10 oz)
• Nutrition stats per serving:Calories: 50, Total carbs: 0g , Added sugar: 0 g, Fat: 0 g, Protein: 14 g
• Price per serving:$$

*Price may vary.

HealthEH’s review

Collagen supplements have been linked to a lowered risk  of certain injuries and are often taken before exercise. While collagen adds to overall protein intake, it is not a complete protein and should accompany other complete protein sources.

Gnarly Collagen Pro contains pure collagen without many of the extra ingredients found in flavored collagen powders. Some collagen products are enriched with MCTs—easily digested fats commonly sourced from coconut oil.

Because Gnarly Collagen Pro is unflavored, it’s simple to mix into beverages or recipes without changing their taste.

The product is NSF Certified for Sport and NSF Content Verified.

Pros & cons

• NSF Certified for Sport and NSF Content Certified
• available in canister or travel packs
• no artificial sweeteners or flavors

• costly
• must be paired with complete proteins

Product details

• Certifications :NSF Certified for Sport
• Available flavors :Unflavored
• Returns :returns within 30 days
• Shipping :free shipping on orders over $45

Best for competitive athletes

Garden of Life Sport Grass-Fed Certified Organic Whey Protein

• Protein type:whey
• Number of servings:20 per container
• Serving size:1 scoop (34.5 g)
• Nutrition stats per serving :(Chocolate) Calories: 125, Total carbs: 6 g, Added sugar: 0 g, Fat: 1 g, Protein: 24 g
• Price per serving:$$$

*Price may vary.

HealthEH’s review

Garden of Life Sport Grass-Fed Whey blends whey isolate and milk protein to deliver 24 g protein per serving with 6 g carbs.

It’s a solid option for competitive athletes because it’s independently tested and holds NSF Certified for Sport and Informed Choice certifications.

This low-carb-friendly powder contains no added sugar and comes in Chocolate and Vanilla, both sweetened with stevia leaf extract.

Garden of Life Sport Grass-Fed Whey is certified gluten-free and contains no soy ingredients.

Pros & cons

• NSF Certified for Sport
• Informed Choice Certified
• sustainably sourced ingredients

• not vegan
• contains natural sweeteners some may avoid
• expensive

Product details

• Certifications :Informed Choice Certified, NSF Certified for Sport, non-GMO verified, certified gluten-free
• Available flavors :Chocolate, Vanilla
• Returns :free returns for Prime members
• Shipping :free shipping for Prime members

Best personalized

Gainful Collagen Whey Protein Powder

• Protein type:collagen whey
• Number of servings:14 to 42 servings per container
• Serving size:1 scoop (30 g)
• Nutrition stats per serving:depends on your customized formula
• Price per serving:$$$

*Price may vary.

HealthEH’s review

Gainful is a subscription service that creates personalized supplements tailored to your needs.

Customers complete a questionnaire about age, height, weight, activity level, and other factors. Based on responses, Gainful formulates a custom protein mix and optional supplements.

Nutrient amounts—including protein and carbohydrate per serving—vary by personalized blend. Gainful does offer keto-friendly blends, some with 0 g carbs.

The powders are free from gluten, soy, fillers, and artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners. You can choose from several flavors and retake the quiz to update your formula as goals change.

What our tester says

Tester Chelsea Logan, a long-time vegan protein user, tried a plant-based Gainful blend that contained 1 g of carbs.

“I blended it with unsweetened almond milk, half a frozen banana, a tablespoon of cocoa, and a spoonful of peanut butter,” she said. “I used it as a meal replacement on busy workdays when I couldn’t stop for lunch.”

Chelsea liked the flavor customization option—Gainful sells separate flavor packs to tweak taste.

However, she disliked the texture. “It’s chalky and not very pleasant. I’ve used it intermittently for about six weeks, but with other powders available, it isn’t my go-to.”

Pros & cons

• access to a registered dietitian with purchase
• various flavor choices
• fully customizable formulations

• costly

Product details

• Available flavors :Strawberry Cream, Sea Salt Caramel, Rich Chocolate, Madagascar Vanilla, Cinnamon Toast, Cookies and Cream, Chocolate Peanut Butter
• Certifications :none

How we chose

We evaluated the following criteria when selecting protein powders for this story:

• Third-party testing: We included only products that have undergone independent testing. Most selections are either NSF Certified for Sport or Informed Choice Certified.
• Total carbohydrate content: We favored powders with under 10 grams of carbs per serving.
• Type of protein: We chose a range of protein sources to accommodate various dietary needs and preferences.
• Price: We included options across price points so there are choices for different budgets.

Our Medical Standards and Insights team thoroughly researches and vets thousands of products. We fact-check claims, review ingredients, and assess brand reputations before featuring items.

From the pool of vetted powders, we tested several ourselves to refine the list further.

Types of proteins

Whey protein (isolate and concentrate)

• Source: dairy
• Pros: high-quality protein that’s easily digested  and absorbed quickly
• Protein volume: whey protein isolate must be at least 90% protein by weight; whey concentrate typically has at least 79.5%

Whey comes in concentrate and isolate forms.

Whey isolate is the most refined form, offering the highest protein percentage and the fewest carbs per serving—sometimes nearly zero carbs.

Casein protein

• Source: dairy
• Pros: digests more slowly, which may support  overnight muscle protein synthesis
• Protein volume: many casein powders are at least 80% protein by weight

Casein is the slower-digesting milk protein and is often used at night to support recovery.

Casein powders are low in carbs and provide substantial protein and sometimes calcium, a mineral important for bone health, muscle function, and blood clotting.

Egg protein

• Source: eggs
• Pros: nutrient-dense; eggs provide protein, choline, vitamins A, D, E, and B vitamins
• Protein volume: protein comprises about 12%  of a whole egg’s weight; protein content in egg powders varies based on white, yolk, or whole-egg formulations.

Most egg protein powders are made from egg whites, which are dehydrated after removing yolks. The whites are pasteurized to neutralize avidin, a protein that interferes with biotin absorption.

Other egg powders may contain yolk or a whole-egg mix, which affects nutrient profiles like cholesterol and protein concentration.

Collagen protein

• Source: typically bovine hide, bovine bones, chicken bones, eggshell membrane, or fish scales
• Pros: may help with injury reduction  when taken before exercise; linked to benefits for skin aging  and wound repair 
• Protein volume: many collagen supplements are 90%+ protein by weight

Collagen peptides are usually flavorless and sourced from animals. It’s a major structural protein in the body—present in skin, nails, hair, bones, ligaments, and tendons.

Research suggests collagen may assist with injury prevention when taken before workouts. However, it lacks tryptophan, an essential amino acid, making it an incomplete protein and not ideal as the sole source for muscle-building.

Soy protein isolate

• Source: soybeans (legume)
• Pros: supports muscle protein synthesis after resistance training
• Protein volume: typically over 90%  protein by weight

Soy protein isolate is produced by grinding soybeans and isolating the protein, resulting in a high-protein, very low-carb powder.

Some plant-based powders may include sugar or additives that raise carbohydrate content, so inspect labels carefully.

Research  shows soy can be as effective for muscle protein synthesis as animal proteins like whey.

Pea protein isolate

• Source: peas (legume)
• Pros: allergy-friendly, high quality protein that may have  similar muscle repair and growth benefits to animal protein when eaten after resistance training
• Protein volume