I’ve been on a quest to find the perfect collagen supplement to support my skin, joints, and overall wellness, and I bet you’re here for similar reasons.
After trying countless brands, I keep circling back to two heavyweights: BUBS Naturals Collagen Protein and Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides. My goal in this article is to break down their pros, cons, and key features in a way that feels real and relatable.
By comparing their sourcing, formulations, taste, and value, I’ll help you decide which one fits your lifestyle best. Let’s get started with a side-by-side look at these collagen giants.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | BUBS Naturals Collagen Protein | Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides |
| Collagen Types | I, III | I, III |
| Source | Grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine (Brazil) | Grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine (Brazil) |
| Serving Size | 20g (2 scoops) | 20g (2 scoops) |
| Protein per Serving | 18g | 18g |
| Additional Ingredients | None (unflavored) | Hyaluronic acid, vitamin C (Advanced formula) |
| Flavors | Unflavored | Unflavored, Chocolate, Lemon, others |
| Certifications | NSF Certified for Sport, Paleo, Keto | Whole30, Paleo, Keto, NSF cGMP |
| Price (20 oz) | ~$47 | ~$47 |
| Solubility | Good in hot liquids, some sediment in cold | Excellent in hot and cold liquids |
| Packaging Options | Tub, travel packets | Tub, stick packs, capsules |
Why I Started Using Collagen?
A few years ago, I noticed my knees creaking during workouts and my skin looking duller than I’d like. A friend suggested collagen, and I was intrigued by its promise to support joints, skin, and even hair.
I’m not one for quick fixes, so I wanted a supplement backed by science and quality.
That’s when I stumbled across BUBS and Vital Proteins, two brands that kept popping up in reviews and conversations.
I decided to try both, and over months of use, I’ve formed some strong opinions about what makes each one tick.
Collagen is a protein that acts like the glue holding our bodies together.
As we age, our natural production slows, which can lead to wrinkles, joint stiffness, and weaker nails.
Supplements aim to bridge that gap, delivering amino acids like glycine and proline to support tissue repair.
Both BUBS and Vital Proteins focus on hydrolyzed collagen peptides, which are broken down for better absorption.
But their approaches differ in ways that might sway your choice.
BUBS Naturals Collagen Protein: My Experience
I first picked up BUBS because I heard it was a favorite among athletes, and I’m someone who hits the gym regularly.
The brand’s story hooked me—named after Glen “BUB” Doherty, a Navy SEAL, it donates a portion of profits to veterans’ causes. That kind of purpose resonates with me, but I cared more about what was in the tub.
Pros of BUBS Collagen
One thing I love about BUBS is its simplicity. It’s just one ingredient: hydrolyzed bovine collagen peptides from grass-fed, pasture-raised cows in Brazil. No fillers, no sweeteners, no nonsense.
This purity means I can toss it into anything—coffee, smoothies, even soup—without worrying about artificial flavors messing with my diet.
It’s also NSF Certified for Sport, which gives me peace of mind that it’s free of banned substances, especially important if you’re drug-tested like some of my gym buddies.
The amino acid profile is another win. Each 20-gram serving packs 18 grams of protein, including 17 amino acids that target skin, bones, and joints.
I’ve noticed my nails growing stronger since starting BUBS, and my post-workout joint aches aren’t as nagging.
Studies back this up—a 2021 meta-analysis found collagen peptides improve skin hydration and elasticity, while another study showed better bone density in postmenopausal women after a year of use.
BUBS dissolves decently in hot liquids like my morning coffee, blending in without a trace of flavor. The travel packets are a game-changer for me when I’m rushing to work or traveling. I can throw a few in my bag and mix them into water at the airport.
Plus, their return policy is generous—full refund on your first order, no return required, which made trying it low-risk.
Cons of BUBS Collagen
But it’s not perfect. The biggest gripe I have is solubility in cold liquids. When I mix BUBS into iced water or a shake, I sometimes spot tiny clumps or sediment at the bottom.
It’s not a dealbreaker, but it bugs me when I’m in a hurry. I’ve learned to use a shaker bottle to minimize this, but it’s an extra step.
Price-wise, BUBS sits at about $47 for a 20-ounce tub, which gives you 28 servings. It’s comparable to other premium brands, but I wince a bit when I compare it to budget options on Amazon.
If you’re on a tight budget, that price might sting, especially since you’re not getting extra nutrients like vitamin C or hyaluronic acid, which some competitors include.
Another thing: it’s only unflavored. I get that this keeps it versatile, but sometimes I crave a hint of vanilla or chocolate to switch things up. If you’re someone who likes variety, BUBS might feel a bit one-note.
Lastly, while the sourcing is solid, it’s from Brazil, and I’ve read mixed opinions about South American cattle standards compared to, say, New Zealand or the U.S. That hasn’t stopped me, but it’s worth noting if you’re picky about origins.
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides: My Take
Vital Proteins caught my eye because it’s everywhere—Costco, Instagram, even my local coffee shop. I was curious if the hype, boosted by folks like Jennifer Aniston, held up.
After using it on and off for a year, I’ve got a clear picture of what it brings to the table.
Pros of Vital Proteins
Vital Proteins matches BUBS on the basics: grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen from Brazil, delivering 20 grams of collagen and 18 grams of protein per serving.
But what sets it apart is the Advanced formula, which adds hyaluronic acid and vitamin C.
These extras are a big deal—vitamin C supports collagen synthesis, and hyaluronic acid is known for boosting skin hydration.
After a few months, I swear my skin felt plumper, and my fine lines softened a bit.
A 2021 study supports this, showing hyaluronic acid reduces wrinkles after 12 weeks.
The solubility is a standout. Whether I’m stirring it into hot tea or cold juice, it disappears like magic, no clumps or grit.
This makes it my go-to when I’m mixing on the fly.
Vital Proteins also offers flavors—chocolate, lemon, even matcha—which I’ve tried when I want a change from plain. The chocolate one tastes decent in water, almost like a light cocoa, which is a nice treat.
I appreciate the variety of formats. Beyond the classic tub, they have stick packs, capsules, and even collagen water. The stick packs are handy for travel, though not as budget-friendly as BUBS’ packets.
Vital Proteins is Whole30-approved and manufactured in an NSF cGMP facility, so quality control feels tight. Pricing is similar to BUBS—around $47 for 20 ounces—but I’ve snagged it cheaper at Costco, sometimes as low as $38.
Cons of Vital Proteins
On the flip side, the unflavored version isn’t always truly flavorless. When mixed with plain water, I catch a faint gelatin-like aftertaste, which isn’t my favorite.
It’s not noticeable in coffee or smoothies, but it’s something I didn’t experience with BUBS. The flavored options help, but they’re pricier and not always in stock.
The Advanced formula’s extras sound great, but I’m skeptical about the dosing. Each serving has 80 milligrams of hyaluronic acid and 100% of your daily vitamin C, but some studies suggest higher amounts—like 120 milligrams of hyaluronic acid—might be needed for max benefits.
I wonder if it’s more marketing than substance. If you’re already eating a vitamin C-rich diet, the added boost might be overkill.
Vital Proteins’ popularity comes with baggage. In 2020, Nestlé acquired a majority stake, and I’ve heard grumbles from purists who worry about corporate influence on quality. I haven’t noticed a dip myself, but it’s a mental hurdle for some.
Also, their return policy is stricter than BUBS’—30 days for unopened products only, which feels less forgiving.
Head-to-Head: How They Stack Up?
Now that I’ve laid out my experiences, let’s compare these two on the factors that matter most to me—and probably to you.
- Sourcing and Quality
Both brands use grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen from Brazil, so they’re neck-and-neck here. BUBS edges out slightly with its NSF Certified for Sport badge, which is gold for athletes needing clean supplements.
Vital Proteins counters with NSF cGMP certification and Whole30 approval, appealing to wellness-focused folks. I trust both, but BUBS feels a tad more rigorous for active lifestyles.
- Formulation
BUBS keeps it bare-bones: just collagen types I and III, ideal for skin, hair, and joints. Vital Proteins’ Advanced formula adds hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, which could give it an edge for beauty benefits.
If you’re after simplicity, BUBS wins; if you want a multi-tasker, Vital Proteins pulls ahead. I lean toward Vital Proteins here because I like the idea of a one-stop supplement, even if the extras’ impact feels subtle.
- Taste and Solubility
Vital Proteins takes the crown for solubility. It blends seamlessly into anything, hot or cold, while BUBS struggles in chilled drinks. Taste-wise, BUBS is truly flavorless, which I prefer for versatility.
Vital Proteins’ unflavored option has that slight gelatin vibe, but its flavored powders are a fun option if you’re bored of plain. I call this a tie—BUBS for purists, Vital Proteins for variety.
- Price and Value
At $47 for 20 ounces, both are premium-priced, but Vital Proteins is often cheaper on Amazon or Costco, dipping to $38-$40. BUBS’ travel packets are more affordable than Vital Proteins’ stick packs, so it’s a toss-up depending on your format preference.
Neither feels like a budget steal, but the quality justifies the cost for me. If you’re pinching pennies, shop Vital Proteins during sales.
- Packaging and Convenience
BUBS’ travel packets are my go-to for life on the move—they’re cheaper and easier to stash than Vital Proteins’ stick packs. But Vital Proteins offers capsules and flavored tubs, catering to different routines.
I like BUBS’ simplicity, but Vital Proteins’ range gives it an edge if you’re indecisive or want options.
My Personal Verdict
After months of switching between BUBS and Vital Proteins, I’ve got a soft spot for both, but they serve different needs.
BUBS is my pick when I’m in a no-fuss mood—its purity and athlete-friendly certification align with my gym-heavy days.
I toss it in my coffee and forget about it.
Vital Proteins shines when I’m focused on skin and convenience.
The hyaluronic acid and vitamin C make me feel like I’m doing something extra for my glow, and the solubility is unmatched.
If I had to choose one, I’d lean toward Vital Proteins for its versatility and slight edge in formulation.
But honestly, it depends on your priorities. If you’re an athlete or minimalist, BUBS might be your vibe.
If you want a beauty boost and flavor options, Vital Proteins could be the winner. I’d love to hear what you value most—drop a comment or message me on X, and let’s chat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What brand of collagen is the most effective?
Effectiveness depends on your goals. Both BUBS and Vital Proteins use high-quality collagen types I and III, shown to support skin and joints. Vital Proteins’ added ingredients might tip the scale for beauty benefits.
Is BUBS collagen better than Vital Proteins?
Neither is universally better—it’s about your needs. BUBS is purer and athlete-focused; Vital Proteins offers extras like hyaluronic acid and more flavors. Compare your priorities to choose.
Is BUBS collagen legit?
Absolutely. BUBS is NSF Certified for Sport, sourced from grass-fed cows, and transparent about its process. I’ve used it for months with noticeable benefits.
Does Jennifer Aniston really take Vital Proteins?
She’s been a brand ambassador, so it’s likely she uses it. But celebrity endorsements don’t guarantee results—focus on the product’s quality and your own experience.
Wrapping Up
You’ve probably gathered that choosing between BUBS Naturals and Vital Proteins isn’t black-and-white. I’ve shared my journey with both, from smoother skin to less joint pain, and I hope it’s given you clarity.
Whether you go for BUBS’ no-frills purity or Vital Proteins’ all-in-one appeal, you’re investing in quality. Think about what matters most—simplicity, extra nutrients, or maybe just the best deal you can find.
You can’t go wrong either way, so pick one, try it, and let me know how it works for you. Here’s to feeling stronger and looking brighter!
