I’ve been on a wellness journey for years, always hunting for supplements that deliver real results without breaking the bank. Collagen caught my attention a while back, promising better skin, stronger joints, and healthier hair.
Two brands kept popping up: Orgain and Vital Proteins. I wanted to know which one’s worth my time and money, so I dug into their collagen peptides, comparing ingredients, benefits, and quirks.
This article breaks it all down for you—pros, cons, and a head-to-head showdown—to help you decide which collagen fits your goals.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Orgain Collagen Peptides | Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides |
| Collagen Source | Grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine | Grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine |
| Collagen Types | I, III | I, III |
| Collagen per Serving | 20g (unflavored) | 20g |
| Protein per Serving | 18g | 18g |
| Additional Ingredients | None (unflavored) | Hyaluronic acid, vitamin C (some versions) |
| Flavors Available | Unflavored, chocolate | Unflavored, chocolate, vanilla, lemon, etc. |
| Price per Serving | ~$1.40–$1.65 (unflavored) | ~$1.50–$2.00 |
| Certifications | Non-GMO, gluten-free, keto, paleo | Non-GMO, gluten-free, Whole30 |
| Third-Party Testing | Yes | Yes |
| Mixability | Good, slight clumping in cold water | Excellent, dissolves seamlessly |
| Taste (Unflavored) | Neutral, faint aftertaste | Neutral, barely noticeable |
My Journey With Collagen
Collagen wasn’t always on my radar.
A few years ago, my knees started creaking during runs, and my skin felt duller than I’d like.
A friend swore by collagen peptides, claiming they transformed her hair and joints.
Skeptical but curious, I started researching.
Orgain and Vital Proteins stood out as heavyweights in the collagen world, both boasting grass-fed bovine collagen and rave reviews.
I decided to try them myself, tracking how they felt, mixed, and impacted my body.
What follows is my take on their strengths, weaknesses, and whether they live up to the hype.
What Makes Orgain Collagen Peptides Tick?
Orgain caught my eye with its clean, no-nonsense approach. I’m a sucker for brands that keep things simple, and Orgain’s collagen peptides deliver just that.
Their unflavored version has one ingredient: hydrolyzed collagen peptides from grass-fed, pasture-raised cows. That’s it—no fillers, no sugars, no weird additives. It’s like the minimalist’s dream supplement.
Pros of Orgain Collagen Peptides
First off, the price. At around $1.40 per serving with a subscription, Orgain is a budget-friendly option compared to pricier competitors. I appreciated that it didn’t dent my wallet while still offering 20 grams of collagen per scoop.
That’s a solid dose for supporting skin elasticity, joint health, and muscle recovery.
The certifications also gave me peace of mind. It’s non-GMO, gluten-free, keto-friendly, and paleo-approved. If you’re juggling dietary restrictions, Orgain fits like a glove.
I mixed it into my morning coffee, and it blended decently—though I noticed slight clumping in colder liquids. Nothing a quick stir couldn’t fix.
Another win: Orgain’s chocolate flavor. I’m not usually one for flavored supplements, but this was a game-changer for smoothies. It tasted like a treat without artificial junk, and the 17 servings per container lasted me a while.
Plus, their third-party testing means I didn’t worry about contaminants sneaking in.
Cons of Orgain Collagen Peptides
Now, it’s not all sunshine. The unflavored version has a faint aftertaste that I couldn’t quite shake. It’s not bad, just… there. If you’re sensitive to tastes, you might notice it in plain water.
Mixing it with something flavorful like juice or a smoothie hides it, but I wish it was as neutral as promised.
Mixability could be better, too. In cold water, it took more effort to dissolve than I’d like. I found myself stirring longer than with other brands, which was a minor annoyance during rushed mornings.
Also, Orgain’s serving size for the chocolate version is smaller (17 servings vs. 22 for unflavored), so you’re getting less bang for your buck.
Lastly, no added nutrients. Some collagen brands toss in extras like vitamin C or hyaluronic acid to boost absorption or skin benefits. Orgain keeps it bare-bones, which is great for purists but a miss if you want a more comprehensive formula.
Why Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Shine?
Vital Proteins feels like the rockstar of collagen supplements. It’s everywhere—Instagram, health blogs, even endorsed by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston. I was curious if it lived up to the buzz, so I grabbed their unflavored collagen peptides and gave them a whirl.
Pros of Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
The first thing I noticed? It dissolves like a dream.
Whether I tossed it into hot coffee or iced tea, it vanished without a trace—no clumps, no grit.
That’s a big deal for me because I hate chalky textures ruining my drinks.
The unflavored version was as neutral as it gets, with barely a hint of taste. I could mix it into anything without thinking twice.
Vital Proteins also packs 20 grams of collagen per serving, matching Orgain’s dose.
But what sets it apart is the addition of hyaluronic acid and vitamin C in some versions.
These aren’t just buzzwords—vitamin C helps your body produce collagen, and hyaluronic acid keeps skin hydrated.
After a month, I noticed my skin felt plumper, though I can’t say it was all due to these extras.
Their flavor options are another plus. From vanilla to lemon to chocolate, there’s something for everyone. I tried the vanilla in a post-workout shake, and it was smooth and subtly sweet without being overpowering.
Vital Proteins is also Whole30-approved, non-GMO, and gluten-free, with third-party testing to back its quality.
Cons of Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
The biggest downside is the price. At $1.50–$2.00 per serving, it’s steeper than Orgain. If you’re using it daily, those costs add up fast. I found myself rationing it some weeks to stretch the tub longer, which wasn’t ideal.
Another quirk: the added ingredients in some versions might not suit everyone. If you’re avoiding extras or have sensitivities, the unflavored version is safer, but you’re still paying a premium.
I also heard complaints about inconsistent quality—like off smells in some batches—but I didn’t experience that myself.
Lastly, the hype can feel overblown. Vital Proteins markets itself as a lifestyle brand, which is cool but sometimes overshadows the actual product. I wondered if I was paying for the name as much as the collagen.
Head-to-Head Comparison of Orgain And Vital Proteins Collagen
Both brands use grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen, focusing on types I and III. These types are key for skin, hair, nails, and joints, so neither has an edge there.
They also deliver 18 grams of protein per serving, though collagen isn’t a complete protein (it lacks tryptophan). Still, it’s a solid boost if you’re aiming for more protein in your diet.
- Ingredients and Formulation
Orgain’s simplicity is its strength. One ingredient means fewer chances of reactions, and it’s perfect if you want pure collagen. Vital Proteins, on the other hand, adds hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, which could amplify benefits like skin hydration.
I leaned toward Vital Proteins here because those extras align with my goal of fighting fine lines, but Orgain’s clean formula is a win for minimalists.
- Taste and Mixability
Vital Proteins takes the crown for mixability. It blends effortlessly, no matter the liquid or temperature. Orgain’s not bad, but the slight clumping in cold drinks frustrated me. Taste-wise, both unflavored versions are subtle, but Vital Proteins is smoother.
Orgain’s chocolate flavor edged out Vital Proteins’ vanilla for me—it felt richer without being too sweet.
- Price and Value
Orgain is the clear budget pick. At roughly 20–30 cents less per serving, it’s easier to stick with long-term. Vital Proteins’ higher price stings, especially since the collagen dose is identical.
However, if you value the added nutrients, Vital Proteins might justify the splurge. I calculated that a year of Orgain would save me about $100 over Vital Proteins—something to consider if you’re cost-conscious.
- Health Benefits
Both brands promise similar benefits: better skin, stronger joints, healthier hair and nails. I noticed smoother skin and less joint stiffness with both, but it’s hard to pin down which worked better.
Studies suggest collagen peptides improve skin elasticity and joint health, and both products deliver the 10–20 grams daily dose researchers recommend. Vital Proteins’ extras might give it a slight edge for skin, but I didn’t see dramatic differences.
- Brand Trust and Certifications
Orgain and Vital Proteins are transparent about sourcing and testing. Both use third-party labs to check for contaminants, and their grass-fed claims hold up.
Orgain’s founded by a doctor, which adds credibility, while Vital Proteins’ NSF certifications appeal to athletes. Neither brand raised red flags for me—both feel trustworthy.
My Experience Over Time
I used Orgain for two months, mixing it into coffee, smoothies, and even oatmeal.
My skin felt softer, and my nails seemed less brittle, but my knees still ached after long runs.
The price kept me loyal—I didn’t feel guilty scooping it daily.
Switching to Vital Proteins, I loved the texture and variety.
My skin looked brighter, maybe thanks to the hyaluronic acid, and my hair felt thicker. But the cost made me wince, and I missed Orgain’s chocolate vibe.
Reflecting on both, I realized it’s about priorities. If you want affordability and simplicity, Orgain’s your pick. If you’re chasing premium features and don’t mind spending more, Vital Proteins delivers.
I ended up alternating based on my budget and goals—Orgain for everyday use, Vital Proteins when I wanted a treat.
Who Should Choose Orgain?
Orgain’s ideal if you’re practical and value-driven. It’s great for:
- Budget-conscious folks who want quality without the markup.
- People with dietary restrictions needing a clean, allergen-free option.
- Anyone who loves a versatile chocolate flavor for recipes. I’d recommend it to beginners or those skeptical about collagen—it’s an easy entry point without overwhelming choices.
Who Should Choose Vital Proteins?
Vital Proteins suits those willing to invest in a polished experience. It’s perfect for:
- People prioritizing skin health and wanting extras like hyaluronic acid.
- Anyone who hates clumps and demands seamless mixing.
- Flavor explorers who enjoy variety in their supplements. If you’re deep into wellness trends or trust celebrity endorsements, Vital Proteins feels like a natural fit.
The Science Behind Collagen
Collagen peptides aren’t just a fad—there’s data to back them up. Research shows 10–20 grams daily can improve skin hydration by 12–28% and reduce joint pain in athletes.
Types I and III, found in both brands, target connective tissues, supporting everything from tendons to dermis. Hydrolyzed collagen absorbs better than whole collagen, which is why both Orgain and Vital Proteins use it.
Neither brand’s claims overpromise—stick with them for 8–12 weeks, and you’ll likely see subtle changes.
Real-User Moments
I chatted with friends and scrolled forums to see what others thought.
One buddy said Orgain helped her post-workout recovery, but she hated the aftertaste in water.
Another swore Vital Proteins fixed her brittle nails but griped about the price.
Online, Orgain fans love its affordability, while Vital Proteins users rave about skin glow.
Complaints?
Orgain’s clumping and Vital Proteins’ cost came up often.
My takeaway: no perfect product, but both have loyal followings.
How I Made My Choice?
Choosing between them wasn’t easy. I weighed my goals—skin health, joint support, and staying under budget. Orgain’s price and simplicity won for daily use, but Vital Proteins’ extras tempted me for special months (like before a beach trip).
I learned collagen’s benefits build over time, so consistency matters more than picking the “perfect” brand. Mixing them into my routine felt like a small win for my body, and I’m sticking with it.
What’s Next for You?
You’re probably wondering which one to grab. Think about what you value—cost, flavor, or added nutrients. If you’re new to collagen, start with Orgain to test the waters. If you’re ready to splurge, Vital Proteins might elevate your routine.
Either way, you’re investing in your skin, joints, and overall vibe. Try one for a month, track how you feel, and adjust from there. Your body will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
It depends on your needs. Orgain’s cheaper and simpler, great for budget-conscious beginners. Vital Proteins adds hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, which may boost skin benefits, but it’s pricier. Both deliver solid collagen doses.
No single brand is universally “most effective.” Orgain and Vital Proteins both use high-quality, hydrolyzed collagen with proven benefits. Effectiveness varies by your goals, consistency, and how your body responds.
Yes, Orgain’s collagen is high-quality, grass-fed, and third-party tested. It’s affordable and clean, making it a solid choice for most people, though mixability could improve.
Jennifer Aniston has endorsed Vital Proteins publicly, but I can’t peek into her pantry to confirm. Her involvement suggests she trusts the brand, but always take celebrity endorsements with a grain of salt.
Wrapping Up
After testing Orgain and Vital Proteins, I’ve seen firsthand how collagen can nudge your wellness forward—smoother skin, sturdier joints, maybe even shinier hair.
Orgain’s my go-to for its wallet-friendly simplicity, while Vital Proteins tempts me with its polished formula and extras. You can’t go wrong with either, but it’s about what fits your life. Pick one, stick with it, and let your body decide.
Got a preference or a goal in mind? Try one for a few weeks—you might be surprised at what collagen can do for you.
