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A good protein powder can make some pretty tasty shakes when you’re on the go—but as anyone who’s ever sipped a lumpy, chalky blend knows, finding the best protein shaker bottle is key to getting the right result.
So, how do you know which are built to last (and which aren’t?). We asked registered dietitians for their recommendations, researched bestselling shaker bottles, and tested them in our own kitchens for weeks to find out. Learn how to spot a well-made bottle from a flimsy competitor and shop our favorites below.
Our top picks
- Best Overall: BOLDE Bottle
- Runner-up: Huel Shaker
- Best Budget Pick: BlenderBottle Classic Shaker Bottle
- Most Compact: Promixx Pursuit
- Best Design: FORME Shaker
- Best Flip-Top: BlenderBottle Strada Shaker Cup
- Most Durable: Helimix Vortex Blender Shaker
- Best Glass: Graymatter Capsule Shaker
Why protein matters
Protein is one of the three macronutrients that we need to survive (along with carbohydrates and fats), registered dietitian Amy Stephens, RDN, tells SELF. It helps build muscle and strengthen your immune system—basically, it “provides the building blocks for every cell in the human body,” she says.
“If we don’t get enough protein, our bodies actually won’t be able to rebuild properly and we’ll start to lose muscle mass,” Colleen Tewksbury, PhD, MPH, RD, senior research investigator and bariatric program manager at Penn Medicine and president of the Pennsylvania Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, previously told SELF.
How much protein do I need?
The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for protein is about 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight (or about 0.36 grams per pound) for an average adult. However, your needs may be different. If you work out a lot or play sports, you may need 1.4 to 2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight (or 0.64 to 0.91 grams per pound) to combat muscle loss. And as you age, your body doesn’t use protein as efficiently, so you may also need to up your intake later in life, registered dietitian Hillary Wright, RD, tells SELF.
But there’s a limit. Stephens warns that, while protein is essential, more is not always better. “Our bodies only have a certain amount of muscle we can gain, and that’s based on genetics,” she says. “So eating more [protein] is not necessarily going to make us bigger or stronger.”
How to add protein shakes to your diet
Protein shakes aren’t a replacement for regular meals, but they can be a good substitute sometimes, Stephens says—like when you can’t sit down for the odd breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or when you need a post-workout boost to help repair muscle.
“It’s a way to fill in the gaps occasionally, but getting your nutrients from whole foods first is always ideal,” she says. If most of your protein comes from powders and shakes, she adds, it might be time to reassess your routine.
How to choose a protein shaker bottle
If you’ve ever struggled with clumps of unmixed powder or a leaky lid, then you know the frustration of using a low-quality shaker bottle. Here’s how to spot a well-made one as you shop.
Shaker bottles are usually made from plastic, stainless steel, or glass. Which you choose is up to you—each has its own benefits.
- Plastic bottles tend to be lightweight, less expensive, and widely available. However, some plastics can retain odors over time. It’s also a good idea to opt for BPA-free bottles, meaning they’re made without the chemical bisphenol A. Exposure to BPA can potentially cause cancer, although there isn’t much research around the topic yet.
- Stainless steel bottles are more durable and are often insulated to keep your drinks cold, but they can be heavier and pricier than plastic options.
- Glass bottles are also pretty durable, and like stainless steel ones, they’re a great option if you’re trying to avoid microplastics.
As you browse, check to see how each bottle works to make a smooth shake.
- Wire whisk ball: Common in BlenderBottles, this metal ball breaks up clumps to make a smoother shake.
- Vortex or grid system: Some shakers have built-in ridges or grids to blend drinks without needing a separate piece.
- Electric bottles: For the best blend with minimal effort, an electric shaker bottle can be a game-changer. They’re often battery-powered and don’t require any effort on your part, but they’re also usually more expensive.
Bigger isn’t always better. Make sure your bottle of choice fits in your bag, cupholder, or anywhere else you’re planning on stashing it when you’re not sipping. The options on this list range from 20 ounces to 40 or more, so you can find the size that’s right for you.
Nothing’s worse than opening your gym bag to find that your protein shake has leaked everywhere. Look for a bottle with a tight, screw-on lid that snaps or locks shut to prevent spills. If it has a spout, make sure there’s a cover with a tight seal to avoid any mid-shake accidents.
Shop the best protein shaker bottles
Best Overall: BOLDE Bottle
Pros
- Lifetime guarantee
- Dishwasher-safe (top rack recommended)
- Fits in most standard cupholders
- The smaller, 20-ounce version has a twist-off container on the bottom
Cons
- Heavier than plastic options
- Higher price point, but built to last
If you’re looking for a durable, hygienic, and odor-proof bottle without the downsides of plastic, the BOLDE Bottle is worth the investment. The lid, mixer, and bottle are all made from stainless steel, so they won’t retain smells, flavors, or bacteria, keeping every drink fresh and clean.
“I’ve tried a ridiculous number of shaker bottles. They always get stinky, begin leaking, or break,” one BOLDE reviewer wrote. “This is better than all of those. I love that it’s almost all stainless steel, easy to clean, quiet, and sturdy. The fixed shaker coil is very effective at mixing the shakes, and I LOVE the storage compartment on the bottom.”
“My favorite feature is that this shaker can moonlight as a water bottle and a reusable coffee mug—a huge bonus for fellow members of the multiple beverage crew.
Material: Stainless steel, food-grade silicone | Sizes: 20 oz. bottle with 6 oz. storage compartment or 26 oz. bottle with no storage compartment
Runner-up: Huel Shaker
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Quick to clean, with minimal parts
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Not insulated, so your shakes won’t stay ice cold
- Small size
Need a no-fuss bottle? The Huel Shaker is your best bet. It’s lightweight, easy to throw in a bag, and simple to clean—because let’s be real, no one enjoys scrubbing the bottom of a bottle with no end in sight.
When I tested this shaker, I appreciated the loop on the cap (ideal for carting around between meetings at the office). Inside, a grid insert blends seamlessly and silently, while the screw-top lid and spout cap help prevent leaks. While it doesn’t have fancy insulation or a high-tech mechanism, it does exactly what it’s supposed to do: Mix your shake and mix it well.
Material: BPA-free plastic | Size: 17 oz.
Best Budget Pick: BlenderBottle Classic Shaker Bottle
BlenderBottle
Classic Shaker Bottle
Pros
- The BlenderBall makes a reliably smooth shake
- Whisk is easy to replace (just in case)
Cons
- No insulation, so your drink won’t stay cold for long
This is the OG shaker you’ve probably seen everywhere, from gym bags to kitchen cabinets—and for good reason). The BlenderBall whisk makes it easy to mix even thick powders (bye, clumps), and it’s pretty big, for the price.
Honestly, this is a great shaker that did everything I needed it to do during testing—it mixed my protein powder quickly and easily. As long as you’re quick with your clean-up and not prone to leaving your bottle at the bottom of your bags post-refuel, this is a solid choice.
Material: BPA-free plastic | Sizes: 20, 28, and 45 oz.
Most Compact: Promixx Pursuit
Promixx
Pursuit Shaker Bottle
Pros
- Insulated stainless steel keeps drinks cold for over 12 hours
- Sleek design looks and feels luxe
- Leak-proof flip cap means no messy spills
Cons
- Heavier than plastic shakers
For a bottle that’s as chic as your matching workout set, the tiny but mighty Promixx Pursuit is the upgrade you didn’t know you needed. This double-walled insulated stainless steel shaker keeps your drinks cold for hours—perfect for when you need to run post-gym errands or make it through a long commute.
Unlike plastic bottles that can feel flimsy, this one has a little heft and a leakproof lid that won’t betray you after you toss it in your tote bag. The agitator snaps on and blends your shake smoothly without a whisk ball, so there’s nothing extra to clean (or lose in the dishwasher).
While I know it’s not for everyone, I love how small the Pursuit is—it lived in my purse during testing. It’s also cuter than your average blender bottle, so I was actually excited to use it while I was out and about. It also makes a great gift for a wellness-minded friend or family member.
Material: Stainless steel | Size: 18 oz.
Best Design: FORME Shaker
Pros
- Can keep liquids cold for 12 hours or hot for 8
- Easy to clean
- Simple and functional
Cons
- More expensive, but packed with smart features
- Small size
There’s a lot to love about FORME’s Shaker: Its sleek shape, extra storage compartment, leakproof lid, and insulated walls all helped earn it a spot on this list. Reviewers also rave about how quiet it is: “It’s practically silent, so I don’t have to worry about waking the kids when I’m trying to drink my protein at 6 a.m.!” one wrote. Like some of our other top picks, this bottle has a twist-off base that can hold extra protein powder or a small snack, like trail mix or dried fruit—no extra Tupperware or plastic bags required.
Material: Stainless steel | Size: 16.9 oz. with a 1.2 oz. built-in container
Best Flip-Top: BlenderBottle Strada Shaker Cup
BlenderBottle
Strada Shaker Cup
Pros
- Leak-proof flip cap for extra security
- Stainless steel keeps drinks cold for hours
- Wide mouth makes it easy to add ingredients and clean the bottle
Cons
- Heavier than plastic shakers
- Only comes in one size
Leaks are so last year. With its secure flip cap and stainless steel body, the BlenderBottle Strada SHaker Cup is made to prevent spills while keeping your drink cold for hours.
The best part? The wider mouth allows you to add ice cubes and the brand’s signature ball-shaped whisk without making a mess. I teach Pilates classes for three or four hours at a time, and I brought a similar BlenderBottle along with me recently to make a mid-shift shake. I really appreciated the sliding lock on the flip cap for extra security in my bag and was pleasantly surprised by how quiet the whisk ball was.
It took me less than a minute to wash everything afterward, and I didn’t notice any lingering smells once I got home. I only wish it came in more sizes.
Material: Stainless steel | Size: 24 oz.
Most Durable: Helimix Vortex Blender Shaker
HELMIX
Vortex Blender Shaker Bottle
Pros
- No need for a separate whisk—just shake to mix
- BPA-free and odor-resistant, for long-term freshness
- Shatterproof, so accidental drops are no big deal
Cons
- Not insulated
- Vortex design works best with thinner liquids—may struggle with thicker mix-ins, like nut butter
The Helimix Vortex Blender Shaker ditches whisks and balls, using its unique shape to blend smoothly—just shake and let physics do the work. One Amazon shopper summed it up perfectly: “I spent more time than I’d like to admit staring at the bubbly vortex in wonderment.”
Reviewers also rave about how sturdy this bottle is: “This thing is seriously tough! I’ve dropped it, stepped on it, and accidentally shut it in a car door,” the same shopper added. Made from BPA-free, odor-resistant plastic, it’s built to last without retaining funky smells over time. While it won’t keep drinks cold, it’s still a great choice for anyone who’s lived through the pain of cracking your emotional support water bottle.
Material: BPA-free plastic | Size: 20, 28 oz.
Best Glass: Graymatter Capsule Shaker
Graymatter Capsule Shaker
Pros
- Stainless steel shaker ball ensures smooth, clump-free mixing
- Leak-proof lid
- Partially transparent, so you can see how much shake is left
- A good value
Cons
- Heavier than plastic shakers
- Not insulated
The Capsule Shaker is just as functional as it is elegant. Made from durable glass, it makes a clean, fresh-tasting drink every time, without any pesky microplastics. And the small mixing ball inside works well, according to Graymatter shoppers: “When using this with the shaker ball inside, I’ve legitimately never hit an ‘unmixed clump,’” one wrote. Although it’s heavier than a plastic bottle and not insulated, it’s surprisingly not that pricey, so we recommend giving it a try.
Material: Glass bottle, stainless steel shaker ball | Size: 24 oz.
Another great option: VOLTRX Electric Protein Shaker Bottle
Voltrx Electric Protein Shaker Bottle
Pros
- Can charge the base separately from the bottle
- Base can display battery level
- Multiple seals prevent leaks
- One-year warranty
- Fairly budget-friendly—a great value
Cons
- Only available in one smaller size
Although we didn’t get to test this bottle for ourselves, we think it’s a solid electric option worth considering. With over 16,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, it’s a certified hit with shoppers: “No matter what protein powder I used, a shaker cup always left a chalky taste and residue,” one wrote. “This handy mixer bottle is fast, easy, and quiet. It makes even early mornings on the go more enjoyable.”
We’re big fans of this bottle’s clever design, which includes a sturdy plastic cup and a rechargeable base that twists on and off as needed. Complete with three seals to stop leaks in their tracks and a convenient carrying loop, it’s a shaker bottle that’s so smart, you never actually have to shake it. (And all for around $30!)
Material: BPA-free plastic | Size: 24 oz.
Frequently asked questions about shaker bottles
How do you use a protein shaker bottle?
Start by adding liquid first, whether it’s water, milk, or a milk alternative. (Adding the liquid before the protein powder helps prevent the powder from sticking to the bottom of the bottle.) Next, add the protein powder along with any mix-ins. If your shaker bottle has a whisk ball, make sure it’s inside before securing the lid. Then, shake the bottle vigorously for 20 to 30 seconds to make sure everything is fully blended.
How do you clean a shaker bottle?
To prevent odors and bacteria from building up inside your bottle, you should clean it after each use. Some bottles are dishwasher-safe, but you’ll need to wash others by hand.
First, rinse it in warm water to remove any residue. Then, wash it thoroughly with soap, using a bottle brush if needed to give it a good scrub. Let your bottle air dry completely before putting the lid back on to avoid trapping moisture, which can lead to unpleasant smells. Need to remove stubborn odors? Soaking your bottle in a mixture of baking soda or white vinegar and water can help.
Can you use a shaker bottle for other drinks?
Shaker bottles aren’t limited to just protein shakes—they can also be used to mix other pre-workout and post-workout drinks, like electrolyte powders. Some people even use their bottles to make water infused with fruit or coffee with added protein.
Are electric protein shakers worth it?
Electric shaker bottles can be great for people who frequently mix thicker shakes that include nut butters, yogurt, or other dense ingredients. While electric shakers are effective, they do require regular charging sessions or batteries, which may not be ideal for everyone.
Related:
- 7 Whey Protein Powders That’ll Boost Your Shakes, Smoothies, and Baked Goods
- The Best Nutritionist-Approved Blenders for Smoothies, Salsas, and More
- 11 Expert-Recommended Fitness Trackers for Smarter Workouts
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