Whey Isolate Protein vs. Whey Protein Concentrate

One of the most popular supplement categories on the market today is protein powders. No matter who you are and what your goals are ... There's a good chance you've tried one as well. After all, they can be an easy way to support your daily protein goals.

The problem is, shopping for protein can be pretty confusing. With all the different types of protein powders out there, it's hard to know which is best for your unique situation, needs, and goals.

Whey isolate ... whey concentrate ... casein protein ... clear proteins ... there's just a whole lot out there. Two of the most popular types are whey protein isolates and whey protein concentrates.

The question is: which one makes more sense for you? Is it a whey protein isolate or a whey protein concentrate? What's the difference between whey protein isolate vs whey protein concentrate? All of this and more I'll explain in depth.

In This Article:

• What is Whey Protein?
• The Difference Between Whey Isolate and Whey Concentrate
• The Pros and Cons of Each
• Which One You Should Take
• Common Myths About Whey
• How to Actually Work Them into Your Day
• Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Whey Protein Anyway?

Before we even compare isolate vs concentrate, let’s take a step back … What is whey protein?

Whey protein comes from milk and is actually the substance left over after milk is processed to make yogurts and cheese. It’s also considered a complete source of protein, containing all 9 essential amino acids.

Because it's a complete protein source, it can also support muscle growth and repair. Whey is among the most effective protein sources for:

• Muscle growth
• Recovery

In other words, there’s a reason that whey protein is such a popular topic.

Whey Isolate vs Whey Concentrate: The Key Differences

Now that you understand what whey protein is, let's talk about the difference between whey concentrate and whey isolate.

Here’s the simple breakdown:

Whey Isolate: Filtered more thoroughly, so it has 90%+ protein by weight with very minimal fat, carbs, or lactose content.

Whey Concentrate: Less filtered, usually 70–80% protein by weight, and retains more of the natural carbs, fats, and nutrients.

Think of isolate as the “lean and stripped down” version, and concentrate as the “creamier, closer-to-the-source” version.

Don't get it confused, though. Just because whey protein isolate has fewer fats and lactose ... That doesn't at all mean it's "better". There are actually pros and cons to both types of whey protein, depending on what you're planning on using it for.

Pros & Cons of Whey Isolate

Pros

• Higher concentration of protein per serving

• Very low in carbs, fats, and lactose (great for sensitive stomachs)

• Fast-digesting, which is ideal for post-workout recovery

Cons

• Typically costs more than concentrate, given the extra filtration required

• Thinner texture, which some find less filling/satiating

• Fast digesting, which can be less ideal in certain scenarios

Pros & Cons of Whey Concentrate

Pros

• Typically more affordable than whey protein isolate

• Creamier, richer taste and texture

• Digests more slowly to support satiety

Cons

• Slightly lower protein by weight 

• Contains more lactose and fats (can upset sensitive stomachs)

Which Should You Choose: Whey Protein Isolate or Whey Protein Concentrate?

It's the moment you've been waiting for. You're ready to try a protein powder, but still aren't sure which is best. Should you choose a whey protein isolate or a whey protein concentrate?

Here's what I'd recommend...

Whey Isolate is Best if You:

• Are lactose intolerant or sensitive

• Want the leanest protein possible

• Are following a low-carb or low-fat diet

• Need a protein source after your workout to support recovery

Whey Concentrate is Best if You:

• Don’t have issues digesting dairy

• Want a more filling, creamier shake

• Are looking for a cost-effective way to get quality protein throughout the day

• Need to supplement whole food proteins for meals or snacks

• Are looking to bake with the protein powder

Understand that each type of protein is designed for specific use cases. For example, whey protein isolate isn't just a low-fat protein option. The fats and lactose are extracted for the purpose of speeding up digestion. With a quicker digestion rate, whey protein isolates aim to support quick workout recovery.

On the other hand, whey protein concentrate holds more of the naturally occurring fats and lactose. This isn't without reason, either! The extra fats and lactose are actually intended to slow the digestion speed of the protein powder. This can be beneficial for those who need convenient sources of protein to supplement throughout the day.

The slower digestion speed can help support satiety and give the body a steady supply of protein for longer.

I like to think of each type of protein as a different tool for a different job. If you need to put a nail in the wall ... You'd use a hammer, not a screwdriver. You certainly could use a screwdriver, but it wouldn't be as effective as the hammer.

Now think of that in terms of whey isolate and whey concentrate. You could use a whey protein isolate as a mid-morning snack. You'd get the protein you need, but you may end up hungry before lunch because of how quickly it can be digested.

See what I'm saying? It's not a matter of which protein is better ... It's a matter of which protein is more ideal for which use case. With that being said, though, don't forget to consider quality.

What to Look for in a Whey Protein Supplement

When I mentioned that whey protein comes from milk earlier, I did not go in-depth on the specifics of the processing. However, it is a major factor in the quality of the product you are putting in your body.

So, let’s quickly break down what we should be looking for in a protein powder...

First, I would make sure the protein is low-temperature processed. This means that the protein is not exposed to extremely high temperatures during the dehydration process that turns the leftover liquid whey into protein.

Think about a chicken breast. If I put a chicken breast on the grill at 1000 degrees to cook it as fast as possible ... it would be burnt. This would actually break down some of the protein due to the super-high heat.

Nobody wants a hockey puck-style chicken breast anyway! The same goes for your whey protein. A protein that is low-temperature processed can help preserve the heat-sensitive protein fractions.

Second, look for a product that is cross-flow micro-filtrated. This is a process where natural ceramic filters are used to separate the whey from the milk instead of harsh chemicals. Chemicals such as hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide.

If these chemicals are used to separate the whey from the milk, they can “denature”, or break down, protein in the product. This just lowers the total amount of protein your body can absorb.

Myth vs Truth: Clearing Up Protein Powder Confusion

Myth: Whey Concentrate is “Low Quality” 

Truth: Both isolate and concentrate are complete, high-quality proteins. Whey isolate just has more of the lactose and fats extracted for the sake of quicker digestion.

Myth: Protein Shakes Are Only for Bodybuilders

Truth: Protein powders can help support close to everyone! From busy parents trying to eat better, to athletes wanting to improve performance.

How to Use Whey Isolate and Whey Concentrate

Whey Isolate: Use post-workout, pre-workout, or any time you want a lean, low-calorie, fast-digesting protein.

Whey Concentrate: Use between meals, blended into smoothies, or as a snack when you want something more filling. It's also popular to bake with.

Pro Tip: Many people use both. They'll take whey protein isolate right after training and whey concentrate for extra protein throughout their day. That way, they can get the best of both worlds.

Frequently Asked Questions. About Whey Isolate vs Whey Concentrate

Q: Which Whey Protein Is Better for Weight Loss?

Some will say whey isolate is slightly better because it’s leaner (fewer total calories). But both can help with fat loss if you’re consistent with your total calorie and protein intake. To say one is "better" than the other for weight loss would be misleading.

Q: Which Is Cheaper?

Whey concentrate almost always costs less per serving. This is especially true when comparing concentrates and isolates from the same company. This is because whey concentrates require less filtration.

Q: Do Both Help Build Muscle?

Yes. Both isolate and concentrate are complete proteins. They come equipped with all the essential amino acids your muscles need to grow and recover.

Which is Better For You: Whey Isolate or Whey Concentrate? 

At the end of the day, there’s no “wrong” choice here. Both whey isolate and whey concentrate are high-quality proteins that can help support:

• Muscle building
• Recover from training
• Fat loss
• Daily protein intake

The better option for you depends on your lifestyle and what you are looking to get out of it.

You know what matters more than which protein you choose? Consistency. Hitting your daily protein goal will drive results far more than which protein powder you use.

So don’t stress over it … Just pick the option that fits your body, budget, taste buds, and then stick with it.

Here's the good news: we're here to support you. At 1st Phorm, our mission is to help real people earn real and long-term results. We know you don't take any shortcuts with your health and fitness goals. That's why we don't take any shortcuts with the supplements to help you reach them.

In fact, all of our whey protein options are cross-flow micro-filtrated and low-temperature processed.

If you're looking for a whey protein isolate, we offer Phormula-1 and Phormula-1 Clear.

For a whey protein concentrate, we offer Level-1.

Shop all 1st Phorm protein supplements here!

...and if you have any other questions or need any help in the meantime, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We have a full team of NASM Certified Personal Trainers and Nutrition Coaches right here in St. Louis, Missouri. 

Just give us a call at 1-800-409-9732 or send us an email at CustomerService@1stPhorm.com. We're available Monday through Friday from 6 AM to 8 PM Central and Saturday & Sunday from 9 AM to 7 PM Central. We'll be more than happy to help in any way we can!

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