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Ascent Whey Protein Review: My Personal Experience (2024)

7.51
Ascent whey protein taste test

Ascent Whey Protein Review

Breakdown

Testing Criteria
Taste 7.3 Mixability 7 Digestibility 8 Protein Density 9 Cost 7.5 Nutritional Value 8.5 Brand Reputation 8

Pros

  • Clean, minimalistic ingredient profile with zero artificial flavors or ingredients
  • High-quality, pure Native Whey protein for optimal muscle recovery and development
  • Tasty chocolate and vanilla flavors despite the clean formulation (7.4 and 7.2/10)
  • Excellent nutritional value (8.5/10) and bang for your buck (8/10)

Considerations

  • Mixability could be improved (7/10), with some residual powder after shaking
  • Vanilla flavor, while good considering the clean profile, isn’t the best-tasting (7.2/10)
  • Slightly pricier than some other options at $1.34-$1.45 per serving

Our Verdict

Ascent whey protein stands out for its clean, minimalistic ingredient profile, free from artificial flavors and additives. The company focuses on providing a high-quality, pure Native Whey protein that aims to support muscle recovery and development.

The chocolate and vanilla flavors both received decent taste scores (7.4 and 7.2/10) considering the clean formulation, and the powder offers a notable nutritional value (8.5/10) and value for money (8/10).

However, the mixability of the powder could be better (7/10), as some residual powder was observed after shaking. While the vanilla flavor is satisfactory given the clean profile, it may not be the most delicious option available. It’s also worth noting that Ascent is slightly more expensive compared to some other brands, with servings costing between $1.34 and $1.45.

Protein Content 25 Calories 120 Carbs 4 Protein Density 83% Sugar 1 Fat 1 Sodium 115 Sweeteners Stevia Allergens Milk
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In This Review:
Overview | Taste | Mixability | Cost | Nutritional Value | Brand Reputation | What Other People Are Saying | Comparisons | Other Proteins to Consider | Who it’s for | Who it’s not for

Prefer to watch than read? Check out our full review on YouTube:

We Test a Lot of Proteins:

We’ve been testing protein powders and nutritional supplements for years. We are coaches, athletes, doctors, and dietitians. We care about what goes in our body and we know you do, too.

To learn more about our testing process, see here.

To see more reviews, visit our Protein Powder Reviews page.

Corey posing with two bags of Ascent protein in the kitchen

Just before diving into the taste test!

Ascent’s Native Whey Protein at a Glance:

Per serving Amount
Protein 25g
Calories 120kcal
Carbs 4g
% of Calories from Protein 83%
Sugar 1g
Fat 1g
Sodium 115g
Sweeteners Stevia Leaf Extract
Allergens Milk

My Experience with Ascent’s Native Whey Protein:

Taste Test (7.3 out of 10)

I tasted both the chocolate and vanilla flavors, giving them 7.4/10 and 7.2/10, respectively. The chocolate was better than vanilla, IMO, delivering a solid taste despite having a clean ingredient profile and no artificial flavoring.

The vanilla, while not the best I’ve tried, was solid, but I’m sure would be even better with milk or a dairy-free alternative like oat milk instead of water.

Ascent’s whey protein flavors provide a clean, genuine taste that aligns with the brand’s commitment to using high-quality, real ingredients. If you’re looking for natural ingredients and appreciate subtle, authentic flavors, you’ll probably like Ascent’s chocolate and vanilla whey proteins.

Ascent whey protein taste test

Mixing up the vanilla flavor

Bang for your buck (8 out of 10)

I scored Ascent an 8/10 for bang for your buck. It costs anywhere from $1.25 to $1.50 per serving depending on which size and flavor you get. And you’re getting 25 grams of protein in every scoop, which nets out to between $0.05 and $0.06 cents per gram of protein, which is competitive with the rest of the market.

They use a “native” whey protein which they claim is a purer, less processed form of protein, which is fast and easy to digest. A great option if you’re looking to quickly fuel up after a workout. \

Plus, there are no artificial additives which means you’re likely getting a cleaner protein for the price point.

Ascent whey protein chocolate flavor with mixer bottle

Just before tasting the chocolate flavor

Nutritional value (8.5 out of 10)

I gave it an 8.5/10 for nutritional value. You get 25 grams of protein, 1 gram of fat, 1 gram of sugar, and 4 grams of carbs, in 120 total calories per serving. This nets out to a protein density score of 83%.

The short, simple ingredient list is a standout feature, with only 3-4 ingredients per flavor. If you’re on a gluten-free or soy-free diet or all-natural diet, i.e. no artificial flavors, Ascent is an excellent choice.

As a whey protein isolate, Ascent is low in lactose, which is good if you’re trying to avoid or minimize your lactose intake. However, it does contain milk, so if you have severe lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, it’s best to avoid.

Ascent whey protein ingredients label

Close up of the ingredients

Mixability (7 out of 10)

I gave Ascent a 7/10 for mixability. During my taste test, I found a small amount of leftover powder after shaking for 20-30 seconds, which changed the texture a bit.

To get a perfectly smooth drink, you might need to shake it longer or add more liquid. Play around with how you mix it to find what works best for you.

Even with the small amount of leftover powder, Ascent mixes pretty well overall. It’s not too thick, clumpy, or foamy. The short ingredient list likely helps give it a smooth texture.

If you like your protein shake completely smooth, you may need to put in a little extra work when mixing Ascent. But the 7/10 score means the mixability is still good, and with a few tweaks, you can get it to your liking.

Ascent whey protein vanilla flavor in mixer bottle

Mixing up the vanilla flavor

Brand reputation (8 out of 10)

Ascent has built a solid reputation as a brand committed to using clean, high-quality ingredients in their protein powders. They’ve been around for over 30 years, which speaks to their staying power in the competitive supplement market.

They don’t hide behind proprietary blends or make outrageous claims. Instead, they let their simple ingredient lists and commitment to clean processing do the talking.

Ascent’s use of “native” whey protein, which they filter themselves to maintain the protein’s natural integrity, showcases their dedication to quality. And they don’t use artificial flavors, colors, and additives, which aligns with their clean label approach.

While Ascent may not be as well-known as some of the biggest brands in the industry, they’ve carved out a niche for themselves as a trusted source of clean, effective protein powders.

Ascent whey protein chocolate and vanilla

NGL, big fan of the packaging…

What Are Other People Saying?

Here’s what other people are saying about Ascent’s whey protein elsewhere online:

Positives:

  • Customers rave about the delicious taste, especially the vanilla and chocolate flavors, noting that it blends smoothly without any chalky or artificial aftertaste.
  • Many appreciate the clean, minimal ingredient list and the absence of artificial additives, making it a great choice for those with dietary sensitivities or who prefer a more natural protein powder.
  • Several reviewers report noticeable improvements in muscle recovery, energy levels, and even weight loss when incorporating Ascent into their fitness routines.
  • Users praise the easy mixability of the powder, which blends well with water, milk, or other beverages without leaving clumps or a gritty texture.

Negatives:

  • Some customers find the flavors, particularly chocolate and vanilla, to be too sweet, artificial-tasting, or lacking in authentic flavor, which may be a turnoff for those seeking a more natural taste.
  • A few reviewers express concerns about the lack of third-party testing information, questioning the purity and quality of the protein powder.

Ascent Whey VS The Market: How Does it Stack Up?

Here’s how Ascent’s whey protein compares to other protein powders on the market.

Personally, it’s one of my favorite proteins:

Whey Protein My Rating
Ascent Native Whey 7.51
Dymatize ISO 100 8.64
Isopure 8.04
Ghost 7.97
Black Magic 6.95
SEEQ 6.94
Muscle Milk Genuine 6.73
Six Star 6.69
Ryse 6.62

Price and spec comparisons:

Protein Price per serving ($) Price per gram of protein (g) Protein density (%) Calories per serving (kcal)
Ascent Native Whey $1.59 $0.06 83% 120
Black Magic Multi-Source $1.87 $0.08 77% 125
Ryse Whey Protein Powder $1.67 $0.07 67% to 77% 130-150
Optimum Gold Standard $1.56 $0.06 74% 130
Dymatize ISO 100 $1.24 $0.05 83% 120
Muscle Milk Genuine Whey $1.77 $0.06 46% 280
Ghost Whey Protein $1.65 $0.07 67% 150

Other Whey Proteins to Consider

If you’re not sold on Ascent, here are some comparable options to consider:

8.27
Chocolate and vanilla Dymatize ISO 100 Protein Powders

Dymatize ISO 100 Review

Breakdown

Testing Criteria
Taste 7.4 Mixability 7.4 Digestibility 10 Protein Density 9 Cost 7.5 Nutritional Value 7.8 Third Party Testing 10 Brand Reputation 8
8.04
Scooping the vanilla Isopure flavor into my shaker bottle

Isopure Protein Review

Breakdown

Testing Criteria
Taste 7.75 Mixability 8.2 Digestibility 10 Protein Density 10 Cost 7.5 Nutritional Value 7.8 Brand Reputation 7.5
6.94
SEEQ protein close up two flavors

SEEQ Protein Review

Breakdown

Testing Criteria
Taste 6.65 Mixability 7.8 Digestibility 7 Protein Density 9 Cost 7.5 Nutritional Value 7 Brand Reputation 5
6.73
Three flavors of Muscle Milk Whey Protein Powder

Muscle Milk Genuine Whey Protein Review

Breakdown

Testing Criteria
Taste 7.33 Mixability 7.4 Digestibility 7 Protein Density 4 Cost 7.5 Nutritional Value 6 Third Party Testing 10 Brand Reputation 7
6.62
Ryse protein next to shaker bottle

Ryse Whey Protein Review

Breakdown

Testing Criteria
Taste 7.4 Mixability 6.9 Digestibility 7 Protein Density 7 Cost 7.5 Nutritional Value 6.5 Brand Reputation 5
6.95
Pouring a scoop of Black Magic protein into a mixer bottle

Black Magic Multi-Source Protein Review

Breakdown

Testing Criteria
Taste 7.75 Mixability 8.5 Digestibility 7 Protein Density 7 Cost 7.5 Nutritional Value 6.5 Brand Reputation 7

Final Thoughts

Ascent is a good choice:

  • If you’re a fitness enthusiast searching for a clean, high-quality protein to help you bounce back after tough workouts and build lean muscle, Ascent whey protein is a great choice for you.
  • If you’re following a gluten-free or soy-free diet and need a protein powder that fits your nutritional needs, this one’s got you covered.
  • If you value transparency and natural ingredients in your supplements and don’t mind investing in a premium product to get the best results, Ascent is definitely worth considering.
  • If you’re looking for a protein powder that tastes good, mixes well, and gives you the nutrients you need without the hassle, this one checks all the boxes and can easily fit into your daily routine.

Ascent is not a good choice:

  • If you’re on a tight budget and need the most affordable protein option out there
  • If you have severe lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy, you’ll want to skip this one since it does contain milk ingredients, even though it’s low in lactose.

You can check the latest price of Ascent’s whey protein on Amazon by clicking here or on the link below. And if you liked this review, be sure to join us over on YouTube.

Thanks for stopping by,
Coach Big C

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