Who Has the Best Clear Protein? A Complete 2025 Guide

December 12, 2025 •

4 min read

Up to two-thirds of the global population experience some degree of lactose intolerance, fuelling the popularity of clearer, digestive-friendly protein supplements. Choosing the best clear protein, however, depends on much more than just a lighter texture, involving a deeper look into ingredients, flavor profiles, and nutritional goals.

Quick Summary

This comprehensive guide compares leading brands of clear protein, including Myprotein, Isopure, and Seeq. It evaluates their flavor, ingredients, and value to help consumers determine the best option for their personal fitness and dietary needs.

Key Points

Source Matters: Most clear protein is a highly filtered whey isolate or hydrolysate, making it low in lactose and fat, unlike standard whey concentrate.
Texture and Flavor: The primary difference is the light, juice-like texture and fruit-based flavours of clear protein versus the creamy, milkshake-style of regular whey.
Digestive Comfort: Clear protein is often easier on the stomach for individuals with lactose sensitivity due to its lower lactose content.
Cost vs. Quality: Options range from affordable choices like Myprotein to premium, clean-label brands like Isopure, with price often reflecting additional filtration or ingredients.
Goal-Oriented Choice: Select clear protein if you prefer a lighter, lower-calorie drink for lean muscle building or weight loss; choose regular whey if you need more calories and prefer a creamy texture.
Taste Preferences: Personal preference for flavour is a major deciding factor, with some brands offering a vast selection of fruity options to explore.

What is Clear Protein?

Clear protein is a category of protein supplement, most often made from whey protein isolate, that undergoes extensive filtration and processing to remove most of the fat, carbohydrates, and lactose. This purification process results in a high-protein, low-calorie powder that mixes into a transparent, juice-like beverage rather than a thick, milky shake. Its lighter consistency and fruity flavour options appeal to those who find traditional protein shakes too heavy, especially after a workout or in warmer weather.

Key Factors for Choosing the Best Clear Protein

When deciding which clear protein is right for you, consider several key factors beyond just the protein content. These elements can significantly impact your experience and whether the product aligns with your specific goals.

Protein Source and Purity

Whey Protein Isolate vs. Hydrolysate: The majority of clear proteins are made from whey protein isolate, which is low in lactose. Some products, like Myprotein's Clear Whey, use hydrolysed whey protein isolate, which means the protein is partially broken down into smaller components for even faster absorption and easier digestion.
Third-Party Testing: Look for products with third-party certifications (e.g., Informed-Choice) to ensure the product is free from banned substances and accurately labelled.
Added Ingredients: Some clear protein formulas include additional ingredients like electrolytes for hydration or BCAAs for muscle recovery. Some may also contain probiotics for gut health, such as certain Protyze products.

Flavour and Taste Profile

Fruity vs. Natural: Clear protein's light texture lends itself to a wide range of fruity and tangy flavours, from mango and lemonade to mojito. Some brands focus on more natural-tasting ingredients, while others embrace sweeter, candy-inspired profiles.
Sweeteners: The use of artificial or natural sweeteners can influence the flavour and aftertaste. Some users prefer products with natural sweeteners like stevia or minimal sugar content.

Price and Value

Cost per Serving: Compare the cost per serving, not just the upfront price. More affordable brands might offer great value, while premium options could provide higher quality or specific added benefits.
Size Options: Some brands offer multiple tub sizes, allowing you to try a smaller quantity before committing to a larger, more economical purchase.

Top Contenders for the Best Clear Protein

Several brands consistently earn high marks in the clear protein market. Here is a closer look at some popular options, highlighting their strengths.

Myprotein Clear Whey Isolate

Myprotein is often credited with mainstreaming clear whey and is praised for its extensive flavour selection, with over 26 options. It delivers 20g of protein and is low in sugar and fat, making it an excellent choice for those focused on lean muscle gain or weight management. Its affordability and variety make it a strong contender for the best overall clear protein.

Seeq Clear Protein

Positioned as a premium competitor, Seeq often receives high ratings for its taste and effectiveness. It provides a solid 22g of protein per serving and uses a combination of sweeteners for a more balanced taste. Seeq is a strong choice for those prioritizing flavour and quality, though at a slightly higher price point.

Isopure Clear Whey

Isopure is a well-established brand known for its commitment to 'clean' products. Their clear whey isolate is a testament to this, with minimal ingredients and a focus on high protein content (20g) and low calories. It’s an ideal option for consumers who are ingredient-conscious and prefer a straightforward, clean formulation.

ESN ISOCLEAR Whey Isolate

Often highlighted in European fitness reviews, ESN's clear whey offers up to 26g of protein per serving, one of the highest concentrations available. It delivers a sweet, refreshing flavour profile without any sugar, fat, or lactose, using sweeteners instead.

Comparison Table: Best Clear Protein Brands


Brand	Key Features	Protein per serving	Flavours	Price Range	Target Audience
Myprotein Clear Whey Isolate	Best variety, budget-friendly	20g	Extensive (26+)	Affordable	General users, flavor-focused
Seeq Clear Protein	Premium taste, excellent balance	22g	Varied, fruit-forward	Mid-to-High	Quality-conscious, taste-focused
Isopure Clear Whey	Clean ingredients, under 100 calories	20g	Multiple fruit flavors	Mid-to-High	Ingredient-conscious, low-calorie
ESN ISOCLEAR Whey Isolate	Highest protein content, zero sugar/lactose	Up to 26g	Multiple fruit flavors	Mid-Range	Performance-focused, lean muscle

Clear Whey vs. Traditional Whey: Which is Best for You?

Both clear whey and traditional whey are effective ways to boost protein intake and support muscle growth, but the best choice depends heavily on your preferences and needs.

Choose clear whey if:

You prefer a lighter texture: If milky shakes feel heavy or unappealing, clear whey's juice-like consistency is a refreshing alternative.
You are lactose-sensitive: The extra filtration process of whey isolate significantly reduces lactose content, making it easier to digest for many individuals.
You want fruity flavors: Clear whey offers a wide array of sweet and tangy fruit flavours, a refreshing change from the typical chocolate and vanilla.
You are on a calorie-controlled diet: The minimal fat and carbs make clear whey a very lean source of protein.

Choose traditional whey if:

You prefer a creamy, rich shake: Traditional whey concentrate offers a classic milkshake-like texture.
You are not lactose-sensitive: If dairy doesn't bother you, standard whey concentrate is a cost-effective option.
You need more calories: For those bulking, the extra calories, fat, and carbs in some traditional whey concentrates can be beneficial.

Conclusion

Ultimately, deciding who has the best clear protein is a personal journey, but brands like Myprotein, Seeq, and Isopure stand out for different reasons. Myprotein excels in variety and affordability, Seeq delivers on premium taste, and Isopure provides a clean, reliable option. Your ideal choice should align with your flavour preferences, digestive sensitivity, budget, and specific fitness goals, such as building lean muscle or managing weight. By weighing these factors, you can confidently select a clear protein that not only meets your needs but also makes supplementing your protein enjoyable. For further comparison, you may find this guide on whey protein helpful: 11 Best Whey Protein Powders, Tried & Tested for 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

Clear protein can be beneficial for weight loss because it is typically lower in calories, fat, and carbohydrates compared to traditional whey concentrate, helping you maintain a calorie deficit while still meeting your protein needs.

Yes, clear protein is made from high-quality whey protein isolate, a complete protein rich in essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth. As long as the protein content per serving is sufficient, it is just as effective for muscle building.

The main differences are texture, taste, and lactose content. Clear protein is made from filtered whey isolate, resulting in a thin, juice-like consistency and fruity flavours, whereas standard whey concentrate is creamier and comes in milkshake flavours.

While clear protein (whey protein isolate) is highly processed to remove most lactose, it is not completely lactose-free and still comes from a dairy source. For true lactose intolerance or vegan diets, a clear vegan protein alternative is needed.

Some individuals may experience minor side effects like bloating or diarrhoea, often linked to the specific protein source or sweeteners used. The higher acidity of some products can also be a concern for tooth enamel or individuals prone to acid reflux.

You can take clear protein at any time of day to increase your protein intake, but many people prefer it immediately after a workout for rapid muscle recovery. Its light, refreshing nature also makes it suitable for sipping during or between meals.

Yes, brands like Myprotein offer clear vegan protein options, which are typically made from pea protein isolate and are suitable for those on a plant-based diet. These products offer a similar light texture and fruity flavours.