10 Best Protein Powders For Putting On Weight in 2026
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For anyone looking to add size, the Dymatize Super Mass Gainer earns our Best Overall pick with 52 grams of protein and 1,280 calories per serving, plus added creatine for power support. The Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Gainer is our Best Classic Mass Gainer for hardgainers, while NAKED Chocolate Mass Gainer wins Best Clean Ingredients for those who want a simpler formula.
Putting on weight requires a consistent calorie surplus, and drinking your calories is often the easiest way to get there. The challenge is finding a powder that mixes well, digests comfortably, and delivers the right balance of protein, carbs, and fats without unnecessary fillers.
This guide is research-based, drawing on manufacturer specs, ingredient profiles, and patterns in owner feedback. We looked at protein content, calorie density, ingredient quality, and overall value to help you match a powder to your specific goals and tolerance.
Top 10 Protein Powders For Putting On Weight in the Market
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The Best Protein Powders For Putting On Weight, Reviewed
Dymatize Super Mass Gainer
What We Like
- 52g protein per serving for muscle repair
- 1,280 calories per serving for mass gain
- Whey and casein for fast and slow digestion
- Includes 1g creatine for power support
Trade-offs
- 245g carbs per serving is very high
- Only 8 servings per 6 lb container
With 1,280 calories and 52 grams of protein per serving, this mass gainer provides a high calorie and protein intake in a single shake. The blend of whey and casein proteins offers both fast and slow digestion, which can support muscle growth and recovery as stated in the product features. This makes it a practical choice for anyone looking to increase their daily calorie and protein intake without preparing multiple meals.
The trade-off is the carb load: 245 grams per serving is high. If you prefer a gainer with fewer carbs, the Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Gainer offers a different macronutrient profile. For someone who wants a high-calorie, high-protein shake with added creatine and vitamins, this product delivers those nutrients in one serving. Note that the container provides 8 servings, so it may not last long if used daily.
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Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Gainer
What We Like
- 1,200 calories per serving
- 50g blended protein for muscle repair
- Includes creatine, glutamine, and BCAAs
Trade-offs
- Not suitable for low-carb or keto diets due to 250g carbs per serving
- Over 1,200 calories per serving is excessive for light training days.
With 1,200 calories per two-scoop serving, this is a serious tool for anyone who struggles to eat enough to gain weight. The 50 grams of blended protein, plus added creatine, glutamine, and BCAAs, gives your muscles a broad recovery boost after hard training. It’s the kind of shake you reach for when your appetite just can’t keep up with your goals, and the extra vitamins and minerals help fill nutritional gaps that often come with a high-calorie diet.
The carb load here is significant: over 250 grams per serving means this is a heavy, thick shake that can feel like a meal in itself. If you prefer a leaner profile, the Dymatize Super Mass Gainer offers a similar calorie count but with slightly fewer carbs and more protein per scoop. For anyone who wants a classic, all-in-one mass gainer that leaves little room for guesswork, this tub delivers exactly what it promises.
NAKED Chocolate Mass Gainer
What We Like
- NSF Certified for purity and safety
- Gluten-free organic tapioca maltodextrin
- Only five ingredients listed
Trade-offs
- Only one flavor (chocolate) in product name
- Only five grams of sugar per serving
A single serving delivers 1,360 calories, 50 grams of protein, and 251 grams of carbs, enough fuel to turn a hard-gainer’s day around without needing a second scoop. That’s the kind of density that makes bulking feel less like a chore and more like a strategy. NAKED Mass uses five ingredients: whey, casein, organic tapioca maltodextrin, organic coconut sugar, and organic raw cacao. It contains no artificial sweeteners, no soy, no gluten, and is NSF Certified for purity and safety. For someone who wants clean fuel without the mystery chemicals, this is the one to reach for.
The 1,360 calories per serving are a serious calorie load, so if your stomach isn’t used to that volume, you’ll want to start with half a scoop and work up. Compared to Dymatize Super Mass Gainer’s 1,280 calories and 245g carbs, NAKED delivers more of both. The 8-pound bag works well for kitchen counter storage but is too bulky for a gym bag. If you prioritize simple ingredients and certified purity over portability, this mass gainer fits the bill.
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NAKED Vegan Mass Gainer
What We Like
- NSF Certified for purity and safety
- 50g protein with complete amino profile
- Gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free
Trade-offs
- Unflavored, so you must add your own taste
- Only 11 servings per 8lb tub limits value
Each serving delivers 1,230 calories, 50 grams of protein, and 248 grams of complex carbs from just three ingredients: pea protein, organic rice protein, and organic tapioca maltodextrin. No artificial sweeteners, no soy, no dairy, and no gluten. For anyone following a vegan diet or avoiding common allergens, this is about as clean as a high-calorie shake gets. The NSF certification adds a layer of trust that what’s on the label is exactly what’s in the bag.
Each serving delivers 1,230 calories, 50g of protein, and 248g of complex carbs from just three ingredients: pea protein, organic rice protein, and organic tapioca maltodextrin. That means you get a clean, plant-based calorie load without artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors. It’s also NSF Certified for purity, so you know what’s on the label is what’s in the tub. The trade-off is that it’s unflavored, so you’ll need to add fruit, nut butter, or a splash of plant milk to make it taste like something. That also means you control the sweetness and avoid the cloying fake flavors some gainers lean on. If you want a straightforward, allergen-friendly way to pack on mass without mystery ingredients, this is it.
Mutant Mass Extreme Gainer
What We Like
- 56 g protein from whey isolate, concentrate, casein
- 1,100 calories per serving for weight gain
- Whole-food ingredients like sweet potato and oats
- 26.1 g EAAs and 12.2 g BCAAs per serving
Trade-offs
- Only 16 servings per pouch for the calorie target
- High calorie count can feel heavy for some stomachs
A single serving of this powder packs 1,100 calories and 56 grams of protein, which means you can hit a serious calorie surplus without spending all day chewing. That makes it a strong fit for people who find it hard to get enough calories from whole food to gain weight, especially if you want ingredients that look like they came from a grocery list rather than a chemistry lab. The blend of barley, sweet potato, rolled oats, avocado, coconut oil, flaxseed, pumpkin seed, and sunflower oil gives it a whole-food profile that feels more like a meal replacement than a typical mass gainer. The whey isolate, concentrate, and casein combination also spreads protein release over a few hours, which can help with recovery and fullness between meals.
The trade-off here is portion control and flavor commitment. With 16 servings per pouch, you will go through it faster than some bulkier options, so if you plan to use it daily, you will want to stock up. Compared to the Dymatize Super Mass Gainer, which offers 1,280 calories and 52 grams of protein per serving, Mutant Mass Extreme Gainer leans harder on recognizable food sources rather than a simpler carb-and-protein mix. That whole-food approach is great if you prefer ingredients you can pronounce, and the triple chocolate flavor delivers a rich taste that many will enjoy.
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MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer
What We Like
- 60g protein and 1,500 calories per serving
- Includes HPLC-tested creatine monohydrate for strength
- 304g easily digestible carbs per serving with skim milk
Trade-offs
- 6-scoop serving size means fewer servings per tub
- Mixed with skim milk to reach stated numbers
With 60 grams of protein and 1,500 calories per serving when mixed with skim milk, this is one of the most calorie-dense mass gainers you can grab. It’s built for someone who wants serious weight gain without overthinking the math, especially if strength and muscle size are the main goals. The 6.3 grams of L-leucine and over 13 grams of BCAAs also support muscle repair, making each scoop work harder for you.
Each serving requires six scoops, which empties the tub faster than some competitors. Dymatize Super Mass Gainer lists 52 grams of protein and 1,280 calories (per unspecified amount), while this MuscleTech version provides more calories and includes creatine, but it demands a bigger commitment per shake. If you’re okay with a heavier carb load and want that creatine boost built right in, this is a straightforward choice, just be ready to mix with milk to hit those top numbers.
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Transparent Labs Mass Gainer
What We Like
- 53g grass-fed whey for complete amino acids
- 770 calories from whole food sources
- 3g clinically dosed creatine included
- Third-party tested, no artificial fillers
Trade-offs
- 15 servings means frequent repurchasing
- Contains tapioca maltodextrin, which some avoid
770 calories per serving from oat flour, organic tapioca maltodextrin, and sweet potato powder means this mass gainer leans on whole food sources rather than cheap sugars. That makes it a cleaner option for anyone trying to add weight without feeling like they’re drinking dessert. The 53 grams of grass-fed whey deliver a complete amino acid profile, and the added 3 grams of creatine monohydrate support both strength gains and recovery. If you want a high-calorie shake that still respects ingredient quality, this one fits the bill nicely.
The carb load here is substantial: 110 grams per serving, so if you’re sensitive to heavy carbs or prefer a lower-carb approach to gaining weight, this might feel like too much. Dymatize Super Mass Gainer delivers 1,280 calories per serving, while Transparent Labs offers a different calorie density. For someone who values transparency and real-food ingredients over sheer calorie density, this is a strong pick.
BSN True-Mass Weight Gainer
What We Like
- 2:1 carb-to-protein ratio for balanced gains
- MCT fats add nutritional value
- BSN flavor technology for milkshake-like taste
Trade-offs
- Contains multiple dairy proteins, not suitable for dairy-free diets
- Requires a blender for best mixing consistency
With 690 calories and a deliberate 2:1 carb-to-protein ratio, this gainer aims for steady, manageable mass rather than a calorie bomb. The 50g of protein comes from whey protein concentrate, calcium caseinate, milk protein isolate, whey protein isolate, micellar casein, hydrolyzed whey protein, and egg whites. That gives your body both fast and slow-digesting proteins over several hours. It’s a smart pick if you want to add weight without feeling like you’re force-feeding yourself a massive shake every time. The MCT fats round out the nutrition, and the flavor tech promises a thick, dessert-like drink that actually makes you look forward to your post-workout refuel.
At 690 calories per serving, serious hardgainers might want more per shake compared to something like Dymatize Super Mass Gainer, which packs nearly double the calories. But that’s also the point: BSN True-Mass gives you room to stack two servings without going overboard, or to add your own peanut butter and milk. It’s a balanced approach for someone who wants quality protein variety and a reasonable calorie boost, not just a sugar rush. Just know that if you’re dairy-sensitive, the blend of whey, casein, and milk protein isolates won’t work for you.
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Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer
What We Like
- 1,220+ calories per serving for weight gain
- 40g all-whey protein with 9g BCAAs
- Includes pure creatine monohydrate
Trade-offs
- 6:1 carb-to-protein ratio is very carb-heavy
- Requires 18-20 oz liquid per serving
- Must be combined with high-calorie diet and exercise
With over 1,220 calories and 250g of carbohydrates in a single serving, this is a serious tool for people who find it hard to get enough calories to gain weight. The 6:1 carb-to-protein ratio means a high proportion of carbs relative to protein, and the 40g of all-whey protein plus creatine monohydrate are included per the label. It’s a calorie-dense shake designed for those who want a straightforward mass gainer.
This is a carb-forward formula, so if you prefer a leaner gainer with more protein relative to carbs, something like Dymatize Super Mass Gainer (with 52g protein and 245g carbs) might fit better. But for someone who needs a high-calorie shake and can handle mixing it with 18-20 oz of liquid, Rule 1 provides the numbers stated on the label. Just be ready to combine it with a high-calorie diet and consistent training.
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Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer
What We Like
- Naturally flavored with stevia leaf extract
- 550 quality calories for lean gains
- Only 2g added sugars per serving
Trade-offs
- Contains dairy proteins, not for lactose-sensitive
- Requires 2 scoops per serving
For anyone watching their sugar intake, the sweetener choice here is a real win. The formula relies on stevia leaf extract for sweetness and keeps added sugar down to just 2g per serving. That means you get a clean-tasting shake without the blood sugar spike or artificial aftertaste. Many mass gainers load up on sugar to mask their ingredient profile, but this one skips the artificial colors, dyes, and fillers entirely. It also happens to be gluten free, so it fits a broader range of dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or texture.
The dairy protein blend means it won’t work for those with lactose sensitivities. Dymatize Super Mass Gainer delivers 1,280 calories per serving, while this is a lower-calorie option. It offers a moderate calorie count for steady weight gain.
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How We Evaluated Protein Powders For Putting On Weight
We built this guide by combing through manufacturer specifications, ingredient labels, and nutritional panels for each product. We also reviewed patterns in user feedback across multiple sources to understand what owners consistently praise or find challenging in real-world use.
The four criteria that mattered most were calorie density, protein quality, ingredient transparency, and serving practicality. For putting on weight, the calorie count per serving is the primary driver, but the source of those calories matters just as much. We prioritized powders with complete protein profiles and minimal artificial additives.
An evaluation has limits: individual tolerance to ingredients like dairy or tapioca maltodextrin varies. What works for one person may cause bloating for another. We recommend starting with a smaller tub to see how your body responds before committing to a larger purchase. If you are new to mass gainer supplements, it is wise to begin with a half-serving to gauge digestion.
What To Look For In Protein Powders For Putting On Weight
Choosing the right powder means looking past the label claims and matching the formula to your daily calorie needs, digestive comfort, and training schedule.
Look for a powder that provides at least 40 grams of protein and a substantial number of calories per serving, with a protein source that fits your dietary restrictions. Check the carb-to-protein ratio to see if it aligns with your goals.
Calories and Protein Content
The whole point of a weight gainer is to pack calories into a single shake. Most serious options land between a moderate and high number of calories and 40 to 60 grams of protein per serving. Your personal target depends on your resting metabolic rate and how many meals you eat daily. If you struggle to eat enough solid food, a higher-calorie powder like the MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer or other high-calorie protein powder options can fill the gap efficiently.
Protein Source and Digestibility
Whey concentrate is the most common base because it is affordable and fast-digesting. Whey isolate is pricier but lower in lactose and fat. Casein digests slowly, making it a good choice for a shake between meals or before bed. For anyone with dairy sensitivity, a vegan option like the NAKED Vegan Mass Gainer uses pea and brown rice protein for a complete amino profile. The best powders for gaining weight often combine multiple protein sources to cover both fast and slow release.
Carb-to-Protein Ratio and Added Ingredients
Mass gainers range from a 2:1 carb-to-protein ratio up to 6:1. A lower ratio like the BSN True-Mass Weight Gainer‘s 2:1 is better for steady, leaner gains, while a higher ratio suits hardgainers who need massive calorie density. Many powders include added creatine for strength support, digestive enzymes for comfort, or BCAAs for muscle recovery. If you prefer a cleaner profile, look for options with minimal added sugars and recognizable ingredients like the NAKED Chocolate Mass Gainer.
- Match the serving size to your appetite: a 6-scoop serving is hard to finish if you are not used to large shakes.
- Check the number of servings per container to calculate how long a tub will last at your target serving size.
- Look for third-party testing or NSF certification if purity and banned-substance screening matter to you.
- Consider flavor options and sweetness level, especially if you plan to drink the shake daily.
A good rule of thumb: start with a half-serving to test digestion and taste before committing to a full serving.
Protein Powders For Putting On Weight Compared
The table below compares the top ten protein powders for putting on weight, including calories per serving, protein content, and key features to help you find the right fit.
| Product | Protein per serving | Calories per serving | Carbohydrates per serving | Protein blend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dymatize Super Mass Gainer | 52g | 1,280 | 245g | Whey + Casein |
| Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Gainer | 50g | 1,200 | 250g | Whey Protein |
| NAKED Chocolate Mass Gainer | 50g | 1,360 | 251g | Whey + Casein |
| NAKED Vegan Mass Gainer | 50g | 1,230 | 248g | Pea protein, organic rice protein |
| Mutant Mass Extreme Gainer | 56 g | 1,100 | N/A | Whey isolate, concentrate, casein |
| MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer | 60g | 1,500 | 304g | N/A |
| Transparent Labs Mass Gainer | 53g | 770 | 110g | Grass-fed whey |
| BSN True-Mass Weight Gainer | 50g | 690 | N/A | Whey and Casein |
| Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer | 40g | 1,220+ | 250g+ | All-Whey Protein |
| Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer | 30g | 550 | 97g | Whey, milk, micellar casein |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much protein do I need per day to gain weight?
A common target for muscle gain is a certain amount of protein per kilogram of body weight. A person of average weight would aim for a specific daily protein target across meals and shakes. A mass gainer with 50 grams of protein per serving covers a significant portion of that need.
Can protein powders for weight gain replace meals?
Mass gainers are designed to supplement your diet, not replace whole meals. Whole foods provide fiber, micronutrients, and satiety that powders cannot replicate. Use a shake as a convenient way to add calories between meals or after a workout when eating solid food is difficult.
What is the difference between a mass gainer and a regular protein powder?
A regular protein powder typically provides 20 to 30 grams of protein with 100 to 200 calories per serving. A mass gainer packs 40 to 60 grams of protein and a high number of calories, with added carbohydrates and fats to support a calorie surplus. Mass gainers are specifically formulated for putting on weight.
Are weight gainer powders safe to use every day?
Most weight gainers are safe for daily use when taken as directed, provided you have no underlying health conditions. The high carbohydrate content can spike blood sugar, so anyone with insulin sensitivity should consult a doctor. It is also important to account for the calories in your overall daily intake to avoid excessive fat gain.
Should I choose a whey-based or plant-based weight gainer?
Whey-based gainers are more common, usually cheaper, and offer a complete amino acid profile with fast digestion. Plant-based gainers are the right choice for vegans or anyone with dairy intolerance. The NAKED Vegan Mass Gainer provides a complete amino profile from pea and brown rice protein, though it is unflavored and requires mixing.
The Bottom Line
The Dymatize Super Mass Gainer is our Best Overall pick for anyone who needs a high-calorie, high-protein shake with added creatine and a dual-digestion protein blend. It delivers 1,280 calories and 52 grams of protein per serving, making it a strong choice for hardgainers and athletes pushing past a plateau.
If you prefer a cleaner ingredient list, the NAKED Chocolate Mass Gainer offers NSF certification and only five ingredients. For those on a budget, the Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer provides 550 quality calories with just 2 grams of added sugar per serving. The protein for weight gain category covers a wide spectrum, so matching the formula to your tolerance and calorie target is the single most important buying decision.



