We love these little protein packers, but there are just too many brands on the market. So rather than judge a nut by its shell, we crack open these nutty choices.

a) Farmer Brand (B28, 140g) is like the khunying of packaged peanuts: looks expensive but out-of-date. The Farmer Brand is reminiscent of the ‘70s. The peanuts taste artificial and over-processed. It says garlic flavor, but it tastes more like naem (Northern Thai sausage) with its strong salty taste and a hint of sourness. So if you like it strong, these are for you—stale and soggy, as well.

b) Tong Garden (B9.25, 70g) is an airhead. The modern packaging looks great, and you expect its contents to be bursting with peanut pleasure. But once you open the pack, a great rush of pressurized air smacks you in the face. The peanuts, which are much smaller than on the package, resemble sick people—pale and crusty. The peanuts taste yucky and bland and have a musky smell to them. Buy them if you’re into strange things.

c) Camel (B29, 150g) is an Olympic athlete. It wins hands down in the packaging department. The peanuts are somewhat bland, with not even a bit of saltiness or sweetness, and are really hard on your teeth, but that could be because they are so natural—no additives or preservatives. If you are a health-conscious person or want to give your jaws a great workout, Camel is the one for you.

d) Double Pagoda (B18, 160g) is definitely a timeless classic. If you know this brand, you see the double pagodas every time you think peanuts. Although the look and quality of these nuts have changed, people still seem to like them. The nuts are small and old, but the taste is bigger than ever. They smell good and taste crunchy and are well-seasoned—not too salty. Double Pagoda deserves to be remembered for its great peanut reputation.

e) Koh-Kae (B18.75, 160g) is like that clown at the circus. The eye-catching red and yellow bag has a catchy logo highlighting all its greatness. And the label doesn't lie: Those nuts are big. They're also sweet and salty, but on the dry side—and not nearly as addictive as Koh-Kae's battered peanuts, which come in a variety of flavors.

f) NutCandy (B10, 70g) is like your boring cousin. There’s nothing special or outstanding about this brand. The look and taste are so-so, the peanuts look clean and the colors of the shells and nuts are inviting enough. The taste of these big nuts isn’t all that bad. Although the nuts have a burnt smell, you won’t notice it while you’re drinking.