I’ve been on a collagen kick for years, chasing that glowy skin and creak-free joints we all dream about. But standing in the supplement aisle, I’m often torn between Great Lakes Collagen and Vital Proteins.
Which one’s worth my money?
In this article, I’m breaking down both brands from a real user’s perspective, comparing their pros, cons, and key features to help you decide what fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re a collagen newbie or a seasoned sipper, I’ll share my insights to guide you toward the best choice for your wellness goals.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Great Lakes Collagen | Vital Proteins |
| Source | Grass-fed bovine (Argentina, Brazil) | Grass-fed bovine (Brazil, New Zealand) |
| Collagen Types | Types I, III | Types I, III (some products include II) |
| Serving Size | 12g (2 tbsp) | 20g (2 scoops) |
| Protein per Serving | 11g | 18g |
| Flavors | Unflavored, Chocolate, Vanilla, Chai, etc. | Unflavored, Chocolate, Vanilla, etc. |
| Added Ingredients | None in unflavored | Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid in some |
| Price (approx.) | $25–$30 for 16 oz | $47 for 20 oz |
| Solubility | Excellent, quick-dissolving | Good, slight residue in cold liquids |
| Certifications | Non-GMO, Keto, Paleo, Gluten-Free | Non-GMO, Whole30, Paleo, Dairy-Free |
| Availability | Amazon, Walmart, Great Lakes website | Costco, Amazon, Vital Proteins website |
My Journey With Collagen
I started taking collagen a few years back when my knees began sounding like a creaky staircase.
A friend swore by it for her skin, so I figured, why not?
I wasn’t expecting miracles, but I wanted something to support my active lifestyle—running, yoga, and the occasional dance class that leaves me sore for days.
That’s when I stumbled across Great Lakes Collagen and Vital Proteins, two giants in the collagen world.
Both promised stronger nails, shinier hair, and joints that wouldn’t complain.
But they’re not identical twins, and I’ve learned that the differences matter.
Great Lakes Collagen: The Lowdown
Great Lakes has been around since 1922, which gives me some confidence—they’ve had decades to perfect their craft. Their collagen comes from grass-fed cows in Argentina and Brazil, and they focus heavily on animal welfare, which I appreciate.
The unflavored version is my go-to because it’s just pure hydrolyzed collagen—no fillers, no sweeteners, no nonsense. It’s like the minimalist of supplements.
Pros of Great Lakes Collagen
- Affordability: At roughly $25 for a 16-ounce canister, it’s easier on my wallet than Vital Proteins. I can stock up without feeling like I’m splurging on a luxury item.
- Digestive Ease: I’ve got a sensitive stomach, and Great Lakes goes down smoothly. Some users with IBS or autoimmune issues report it’s gentler than other brands, and I can vouch for that.
- Solubility: This stuff dissolves like a dream. Whether I’m stirring it into my morning coffee or a cold smoothie, there’s no clumping or gritty texture. It’s practically invisible.
- Variety of Flavors: If unflavored isn’t your vibe, they’ve got Chocolate, Vanilla, Chai, and even Raspberry Lemonade. The Chocolate one tastes like a treat when I mix it with almond milk.
- Certifications Galore: Non-GMO, Keto-certified, Paleo-friendly, gluten-free, and glyphosate-free. If you’re into clean eating, this checks a lot of boxes.
Cons of Great Lakes Collagen
- Lower Protein Content: With 11 grams of protein per 12-gram serving, it’s not as protein-packed as Vital Proteins. If you’re using collagen as a protein boost, you might need to double up.
- Limited Added Benefits: Unlike Vital Proteins, the unflavored version doesn’t include extras like Vitamin C or hyaluronic acid. You’re getting straight collagen, which is great for purists but lacks that “boosted” feel.
- Flavor Aftertaste: The flavored options, like Vanilla, can have a slight aftertaste if you mix them with plain water. I’ve learned to pair them with stronger bases like coffee or juice.
- Smaller Serving Size: The recommended 12 grams feels a bit stingy compared to Vital Proteins’ 20 grams. I sometimes scoop a little extra to match the dose, which means the canister runs out faster.
Vital Proteins: The Heavy Hitter
Vital Proteins hit the scene in 2013, founded by Kurt Seidensticker, who was dealing with joint pain himself. I like that it’s a brand born from a real need—it feels personal.
Sourced from grass-fed cows in Brazil and New Zealand, their collagen is a staple at places like Costco and Amazon. They’ve also got a massive range, from unflavored powders to matcha-infused blends and even gummies.
Pros of Vital Proteins
- Higher Protein Content: Each 20-gram serving packs 18 grams of protein, making it a solid choice if you’re aiming to up your protein intake without chugging shakes all day.
- Added Nutrients: Their Collagen Peptides Advanced blend includes Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, which are like sidekicks for collagen absorption and skin hydration. I’ve noticed my skin feels plumper when I use this one consistently.
- Versatility: From single-serve packets to flavored creamers, Vital Proteins caters to every lifestyle. I toss the packets in my gym bag for post-workout shakes on the go.
- Wide Availability: You can find it everywhere—Costco, Target, even Walgreens. It’s convenient when I’m running low and need a quick restock.
- Whole30 Approved: If you’re doing Whole30 or avoiding dairy, their unflavored peptides fit right in. I’ve used it during cleanses, and it blends seamlessly into recipes.
Cons of Vital Proteins
- Pricey: At $47 for 20 ounces, it’s a bigger investment. I wince a little every time I check out, especially if I’m buying multiple canisters.
- Solubility Issues: It dissolves well in hot liquids, but in cold water, I sometimes notice a slight residue. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s less smooth than Great Lakes.
- Mild Taste: The unflavored version isn’t truly tasteless. There’s a faint bone broth-like flavor that can sneak through in plain water. I don’t mind it, but my husband’s not a fan.
- Serving Size Commitment: Two scoops (20 grams) can feel like a lot if you’re just starting out. I’ve had days where I only use one scoop, but then I wonder if I’m shortchanging the benefits.
Head-to-Head Comparison of Great Lakes Collagen And Vital Proteins
Let’s get real—both brands deliver on the collagen promise: better skin, stronger nails, and joints that don’t sound like a horror movie soundtrack. But they cater to slightly different needs, and I’ve learned that through trial and error.
- Sourcing and Quality
Both use grass-fed bovine collagen, which is the gold standard for quality. Great Lakes sources from Argentina and Brazil, while Vital Proteins pulls from Brazil and New Zealand. I’ve dug into this, and both regions have strict agricultural standards, so I don’t stress about one being “better.”
What stands out is Great Lakes’ focus on animal welfare—it’s a core part of their brand, and I feel good knowing the cows are treated well. Vital Proteins also emphasizes pasture-raised sourcing, but they don’t shout about it as much.
- Collagen Types
Both offer Types I and III, which are clutch for skin, hair, nails, and connective tissues.
These types are rich in proline and glycine, amino acids that help your body build its own collagen.
Vital Proteins edges out slightly because some of their blends, like the Cartilage formula, include Type II for joint-specific support.
I tried the Type II capsules when my knees were acting up, and I swear they helped me get through a 5K without wincing.
Great Lakes sticks to I and III, which is fine for most people but limits options if you’re targeting cartilage repair.
- Taste and Texture
I’m picky about texture—nothing ruins my coffee like a gritty supplement. Great Lakes wins here. It melts into anything, hot or cold, without a trace. I’ve mixed it into soups, smoothies, even pancake batter, and it’s undetectable.
Vital Proteins is solid in hot drinks, but in cold liquids, I sometimes spot tiny specks that don’t fully dissolve. Taste-wise, both unflavored versions are subtle, but Vital Proteins has that slight gelatin vibe. If you’re sensitive to flavors, Great Lakes might be your safer bet.
- Price and Value
I’m all about getting bang for my buck, and Great Lakes is the clear winner on price. A 16-ounce canister costs about $25–$30, while Vital Proteins’ 20-ounce tub runs $47.
But here’s the catch: Vital Proteins gives you more protein per serving (18g vs. 11g), so you might need less of it overall. I did the math, and per gram of protein, Great Lakes is still cheaper, but the gap narrows when you factor in Vital Proteins’ added nutrients. If budget’s tight, Great Lakes is my pick. If you want extras like Vitamin C, Vital Proteins justifies the splurge.
- Packaging and Convenience
Vital Proteins nails convenience. Their single-serve packets are a lifesaver for travel—I’ve tossed them in my suitcase for vacations and never missed a dose. They also offer smaller sizes, like 5-ounce tubs, if you’re not ready to commit to a big canister.
Great Lakes keeps it simple with 10- or 16-ounce cans, but no packets. I wish they’d add travel-friendly options for those of us always on the move. Both brands use recyclable packaging, which I love, but Vital Proteins’ sleek design feels a bit more polished on my counter.
- Flavored Options
I don’t always stick to unflavored collagen—sometimes I want a little fun. Great Lakes has stepped up with flavors like Chocolate, Vanilla, and Chai, which I mix into lattes or yogurt for a treat.
Their Raspberry Lemonade is refreshing in water, though it’s a bit sweet for my taste. Vital Proteins offers similar flavors—Vanilla, Chocolate, even Matcha—but their Strawberry Lemon is a standout for smoothies.
The downside? Both brands’ flavored versions can have a slight artificial aftertaste, so I stick to small doses or mask them with strong ingredients.
My Experience Over Time
I’ve alternated between both brands for months at a time to really feel the difference.
With Great Lakes, my nails grew stronger within a couple of weeks, and my digestion felt smoother, especially during stressful periods.
My skin looked hydrated, but I didn’t notice a dramatic glow-up.
Vital Proteins, on the other hand, seemed to give my skin a bit more bounce, maybe thanks to the hyaluronic acid.
My joints felt great with both, but Vital Proteins’ higher dose made me feel like I was doing more for my body, even if that’s just placebo.
Who’s It For?
If you’re budget-conscious, have a sensitive stomach, or just want a no-frills collagen, Great Lakes is your match.
It’s reliable, dissolves like magic, and won’t break the bank. I’d recommend it for beginners or anyone who prefers a minimalist approach.
Vital Proteins is for those willing to spend more for added perks—higher protein, extra nutrients, and tons of variety. It’s my pick when I’m training hard or want a little luxury in my routine. If you’re always on the go, their packets are a game-changer.
What I Wish I Knew Starting Out?
When I first started with collagen, I thought it was a magic bullet. Spoiler: it’s not. You need consistency—daily scoops for at least a month to see results.
I also learned to pair it with Vitamin C-rich foods (like oranges or bell peppers) to boost absorption, especially with Great Lakes’ unflavored version.
And don’t expect overnight miracles—my nails took weeks to harden, and my joints felt better gradually. Both brands work, but your diet and lifestyle play a huge role in the results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Effectiveness depends on your goals. Great Lakes is great for digestion and affordability, while Vital Proteins shines for skin and protein content. Both deliver solid results with consistent use.
Costco didn’t fully stop; availability varies by location. They sometimes rotate stock or prioritize other brands. Check online or ask your local store for restocks.
She’s been linked to the brand as an ambassador, so it’s likely she uses it. But celebrity endorsements don’t guarantee results for everyone—your experience may differ.
Some products carry a California Prop 65 warning due to trace heavy metals, common in supplements. Levels are within safe limits, but it’s a legal requirement to disclose.
Wrapping Up
After months of sipping, stirring, and comparing, I can say both Great Lakes Collagen and Vital Proteins have a place in your wellness routine—it’s about what you prioritize. If you’re after affordability and a clean, digestible option, Great Lakes won’t let you down.
If you want a nutrient-packed boost with more protein, Vital Proteins is worth the extra bucks. Whichever you choose, stick with it, pair it with a healthy diet, and you’ll start noticing those subtle wins—stronger nails, smoother skin, happier joints.
What’s your next step? Grab a canister and see what collagen can do for you.
