If you’re trying to build muscle on a budget, protein powder can help, but only if the basics are already solid: strength training, enough calories, and enough daily protein.

Protein powder is just a convenient shortcut when food alone doesn’t get you there. The goal is simple: hit your daily protein target consistently, without wrecking your budget or your stomach.

This list focuses on popular protein powders that are commonly available under ₹2,000 in India (especially during sales). Prices change daily, so treat “under ₹2,000” as “check today” and buy when the final payable drops.

Safety note: If you have kidney/liver issues, are pregnant, or are under 18, get medical guidance before using supplements.

Quick comparison table

How to pick the right budget protein (so you don’t waste money)

1) Choose the type your stomach can handle

• Whey concentrate: usually cheapest, but can bother lactose-sensitive users

• Whey blend: often good value (varies by brand and formula)

• Plant protein: good for lactose sensitivity; texture can be thicker/grainier

2) Shop by “cost per 20–25g protein,” not cost per kg

Two tubs can cost the same but deliver very different protein per scoop.

3) Check these 4 label basics every time

• Protein per serving

• Serving size (scoop weight)

• Calories per serving

• Ingredient list (especially sweeteners and added fillers if you’re sensitive)

4) Don’t overthink BCAA numbers

If the total protein is decent and it’s a complete protein source, BCAAs are already there. Your real lever is daily total protein + consistent training.

The 6 best protein powders under ₹2,000 (India)

1) Nutrabay Vital Whey Protein (1 kg)

A solid “starter” option for people who want a basic protein powder without overpaying. This one is often priced aggressively during sales.

Best for: beginners, students, first-time buyers
Why it works: low barrier to consistency
Watch-outs: check the protein per serving and serving size so you’re not paying for extra carbs/flavouring

2) Nakpro Impact Whey (1 kg)

Nakpro frequently runs deep discounts via its own site and marketplaces, making it a strong value pick when you want a whey-style shake without premium pricing.

Best for: regular gym-goers, value-first buyers
Why it works: good “price per scoop” when sale pricing hits
Watch-outs: flavour and sweetener tolerance (some people get GI issues from certain sweeteners)

3) MuscleBlaze Beginner’s Protein Powder (1 kg)

Good for people who are new to supplements and want an easier entry point. Many beginner formulas have a gentler feel, but you must compare protein density.

Best for: beginners, people easing into supplements
Why it works: a smoother transition if strong whey upsets your stomach
Watch-outs: beginner formulas can deliver lower protein per scoop, so check value carefully

4) AS-IT-IS Whey Concentrate (1 kg)

If you want something closer to “simple and functional,” unflavoured whey concentrate is great because you can mix it into oats, smoothies, or coffee.

Best for: unflavoured lovers, people who hate overly sweet shakes
Why it works: easy to blend into food; simple routine
Watch-outs: whey concentrate may not suit lactose-sensitive users

5) Nakpro Plant Protein (1 kg)

If dairy doesn’t suit you, plant protein is your budget-friendly route to consistency. It’s also useful if you want to reduce dairy intake while still hitting protein targets.

Best for: lactose-sensitive users, plant-based diets, variety
Why it works: often cheaper than many “premium” plant tubs
Watch-outs: texture can be thick; blend with banana/oats/cocoa to improve taste

6) Amul Whey Protein Sachets (Pack)

Sachets are about one thing: consistency. If you travel, work long hours, or hate carrying tubs, single-serve sachets make it hard to “skip.”

Best for: office routines, travel, people who don’t want tubs
Why it works: convenience = consistency
Watch-outs: sachets usually cost more per gram than big tubs (you’re paying for ease)

How to use protein powder for muscle gain (simple and practical)

A realistic daily target

• Aim roughly 1.6–2.2 g protein per kg bodyweight per day if you’re training consistently and trying to gain muscle.
  (You don’t need perfection. You need consistency.)

Timing that actually matters

• Spread protein across 3–5 meals.

• Post-workout protein is useful, but total daily protein matters more than “exact timing.”

Beginner routine (that works)

• Start with 1 scoop/day on training days + protein-rich meals

• If you’re still short on protein and digestion is fine, go to 2 scoops/day

• If digestion is bad, switch type (blend → isolate or plant) or reduce serving size

Deal hacks (Couponlap style): pay less without downgrading

Use this stack every time:

1. Sale price (brand site vs Amazon vs Flipkart vs Health stores)

2. Couponlap coupon code

3. Bank/UPI offer (only if it stacks)

4. Cashback (bonus)

CTA: Before you pay, compare the final payable across 2 platforms. Protein prices swing hard during sale periods.

FAQs

1) Is protein powder safe for beginners?

For most healthy adults, yes in sensible amounts. Start small to test digestion, and avoid megadoses.

2) Whey or plant protein: what’s better for muscle gain?

Both can work. Whey is usually easier to mix and often cheaper per gram of protein. Plant protein is great if dairy doesn’t suit you.

3) How many scoops per day for muscle gain?

Start with 1 scoop/day and adjust based on your total daily protein intake and digestion. Scoops are just a tool, not the goal.

4) What’s the biggest mistake people make with protein powders?

Buying protein and then being inconsistent with training and food. Powder can’t replace progressive strength training and total calories.

5) How do I avoid fake supplements online?

Buy from official brand stores or trusted marketplaces, verify the seller, and avoid deals that look unrealistically cheap.