10 Best Supplements To Put On Muscle Mass in 2026
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The Ultimate Nutrition Muscle Juice 2544 Mass Gainer earns our Best Overall spot for its 1,020-calorie blend of fast-and slow-release proteins that supports hardgainers between meals. The Dymatize Super Mass Gainer stands out as the Best High-Calorie Gainer for athletes needing maximum energy density, while the NAKED Mass Natural Weight Gainer wins for clean, minimally processed ingredients.
Adding body weight requires a consistent calorie surplus, and for many of us, eating enough whole food to hit that number every day is the hardest part of bulking. Mass gainers fill that gap with dense nutrition in a shake, but the formula quality, protein sources, and carb profiles vary widely between tubs.
We built this guide by comparing manufacturer specifications, studying ingredient panels, and identifying patterns in what experienced lifters look for when choosing a mass gainer. You will find ten products ranked by calorie density, protein quality, and overall value for your goals.
Top 10 Supplements To Put On Muscle Mass in the Market
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The Best Supplements To Put On Muscle Mass, Reviewed
Ultimate Nutrition Muscle Juice 2544 Mass Gainer
What We Like
- 1020 calories per serving for hardgainers
- 55g fast- and slow-release protein blend
- 13g BCAAs and 10g glutamine precursors
Trade-offs
- 4-scoop serving size means large daily volume
- High calorie count requires careful meal timing
A single serving packs 1020 calories, 55 grams of protein, and 13 grams of BCAAs, numbers that make it clear this is built for people who genuinely struggle to add weight. The multi-source protein blend combines whey concentrate, whey isolate, calcium caseinate, and egg white albumin. This gives you both fast-digesting amino acids right after your workout and slow-release proteins that keep feeding your muscles for hours. It is a formula designed for the hardgainer who has tried everything and needs a calorie-dense, reliable option to finally push the scale upward.
The sheer volume you have to consume is a trade-off here: four scoops mixed with 18 ounces of liquid makes for a hefty shake, and the 162-gram carb matrix relies on maltodextrin and crystalline fructose to replenish glycogen stores. Compared to the Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass, which includes creatine and glutamine per its label, the Muscle Juice provides a multi-source protein blend and MCT fat rather than those added ingredients. If you prefer a mass gainer with fewer calories and carbs, the GHOST Clear Gains offers 440 calories and 40 grams of whey isolate per serving. But for those who need maximum calories and sustained protein delivery in a four-scoop serving, this is a straightforward option.
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Dymatize Super Mass Gainer
What We Like
- 1,280 calories per serving for mass gain
- 52g protein with whey and casein blend
- 1g creatine supports strength and power
- 14 essential vitamins and minerals included
Trade-offs
- 245g carbs per serving is very high
- Only 8 servings per container
With 1,280 calories and 52 grams of protein in a single serving, this supplement provides a dense caloric boost when your appetite can’t keep up with your goals. The whey and casein blend delivers protein from two sources, and the 1 gram of creatine per serving supports power and strength as part of your training routine. For anyone aiming to increase muscle mass and meet energy needs, this formula simplifies the process.
The trade-off is real: 245 grams of carbs per serving is a lot, even for a mass gainer. So if you’re someone who watches carb intake or feels sluggish after heavy meals, this might sit heavier than some other options. You also only get eight servings per container, which means you’ll need to plan your purchases accordingly. But if your main challenge is simply getting enough fuel to grow, this mix of protein, creatine, and calories provides a straightforward solution.
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Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Weight Gainer
What We Like
- 50g blended protein for muscle repair
- 250g+ carbs for glycogen replenishment
- Includes creatine, glutamine, and BCAAs
Trade-offs
- Over 250g carbs per serving limits low-carb diets
- 2-scoop serving requires a large blender bottle
The carb load is the trade-off. At over 250 grams per serving, this is a serious carb bomb, which works great if you’re burning through energy in heavy training sessions but less so if you’re watching your carbohydrate intake for other reasons. Compare it to Dymatize Super Mass Gainer, which delivers 1,280 calories with 245 grams of carbs. Serious Mass is the classic high-calorie option for lifters who want a no-fuss, calorie-dense shake that can be customized with milk or peanut butter without worrying about the math.
GHOST Clear Gains Mass Gainer
What We Like
- Zero fat and no added sugar
- 40g whey protein isolate per serving
- Clear formula for easy mixing
- Transparent label with full disclosure
Trade-offs
- Lower calorie count than heavier gainers
- Not suitable for those needing high-fat mass gain
With 440 calories and 40 grams of whey protein isolate per serving, this gainer is built for clean, steady muscle building without the heavy, syrupy feeling of traditional mass powders. The zero fat and no added sugar mean you get your calories from protein and Vitargo carbs rather than extra fillers, which makes it a smart pick if you want to add size without loading up on fats or processed sugars. It suits anyone who finds thick, milky gainers hard to stomach and prefers a lighter, refreshing drink that still delivers real protein numbers.
At 440 calories per two-scoop serving, this is a lighter mass gainer compared to something like Ultimate Nutrition Muscle Juice 2544, which packs 1,020 calories per serving. That lower calorie count makes it a better fit for someone who wants post-workout recovery without a heavy, sluggish feeling. The formula is completely transparent, with every ingredient dose listed on the label, so you know exactly what you’re putting in your body.
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NAKED Mass Natural Weight Gainer
What We Like
- NSF Certified for purity and safety
- Gluten-free organic tapioca carbs
- Three ingredients: whey, casein, organic tapioca maltodextrin
Trade-offs
- Unflavored, so taste depends on mix-ins
Fifty grams of protein and 1,250 calories per serving is a serious calorie boost for anyone struggling to pack on mass, and the ingredient list is refreshingly short: grass-fed whey, micellar casein, and organic tapioca maltodextrin. That means no artificial sweeteners, no soy, no gluten, and no mystery fillers, just clean fuel that works with your body instead of against it. If you want a mass gainer that lets you control what goes into your shake, this is the one to reach for.
Because it’s unflavored, you’ll need to blend it with fruit, peanut butter, or cocoa to make it taste like something you actually want to drink. For the hard gainer who prioritizes ingredient transparency over convenience, this is a smart, honest choice.
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Mutant Mass Extreme Gainer
What We Like
- 56g protein from three sources
- Whole-food ingredients like barley and oats
- 1,100 calories per serving
- 12.2g BCAAs for muscle support
Trade-offs
- 16 servings per pouch means frequent repurchasing
- Contains multiple protein types, not single-source
With 1,100 calories and 56 grams of protein per serving, this mass gainer is designed for anyone who needs a high-calorie boost to support weight gain and active lifestyles. The ingredient list includes barley, sweet potato, rolled oats, avocado, coconut oil, flaxseed, pumpkin seed, and sunflower oil, which are whole-food sources. That means the fats and carbs come from recognizable ingredients, which can feel more like a meal replacement than a shake for some users. It’s ideal for hardgainers who want steady weight gain without relying solely on processed fillers.
Each pouch delivers 16 servings, so daily use means frequent reordering. The 1,100 calories per serving come from ingredients like barley, sweet potato, rolled oats, avocado, coconut oil, flaxseed, pumpkin seed, and sunflower oil. That whole-food blend provides a carb profile based on real ingredients rather than simple sugars. For someone with a smaller appetite, splitting a serving into two shakes across the day could make the calorie target more manageable.
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MuscleMeds CARNIVOR Mass Gainer
What We Like
- Lactose-free beef protein isolate
- Zero fat and zero sugar
- Halal certified
- 50g protein per serving
Trade-offs
- Only one flavor option listed
- Not suitable for low-carb or keto dieters.
Zero fat and zero sugar per serving sets this mass gainer apart from many competitors. That means you get 50 grams of beef protein isolate and over 700 calories without any of the dairy or extra fillers that can upset sensitive stomachs. It is a smart option if lactose has kept you away from traditional weight gainers, or if you want a cleaner macronutrient profile that skips the bloat. The beef protein isolate is also 350 percent more concentrated in amino acids than steak, so your muscles get a fast-absorbing boost without the fat or cholesterol.
The 125 grams of carbs per serving make this a serious calorie bomb for hard gainers or post-workout refueling, not casual sipping. Compared to Dymatize Super Mass Gainer’s 245 grams of carbs, CARNIVOR is actually lower in total carbs, but it still delivers enough carbohydrates to support the high-speed macronutrient delivery described in the product’s feature list. If you are watching your carbohydrate intake or prefer a leaner gainer, the high carb count might feel heavy. For anyone who needs a lactose-free, no-fat option to build mass without digestive drama, this fits the bill.
MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer
What We Like
- 60g protein and 1,500 calories per serving
- Includes HPLC-tested creatine monohydrate
Trade-offs
- 6-scoop serving size requires mixing with skim milk
- Requires 2 cups skim milk per serving
Mixed with 2 cups of skim milk, each serving packs 60 grams of protein and 1,500 calories, plus HPLC-tested creatine monohydrate. That gives you both the building blocks for muscle and the fuel for strength in one shake, so you don’t have to juggle multiple powders. Scientific studies show creatine helps replenish ATP stores for enhanced performance, more muscle, and an increase in strength.
The trade-off is the serving size, six scoops plus two cups of skim milk is a lot of volume to drink in one go. If you prefer a smaller, more frequent eating schedule, something like Dymatize Super Mass Gainer offers a lower 1,280-calorie serving that might feel less heavy. But for anyone who wants a straightforward, high-calorie mass gainer with creatine already mixed in, this tub covers the basics efficiently.
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Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer
What We Like
- All-whey protein with 9g BCAAs
- 1,220+ calories per serving
- 6:1 carb-to-protein ratio
- Made in GMP-certified US facilities
Trade-offs
- 6:1 ratio means very high carb load
- Requires mixing with 18-20 oz liquid
- Not a meal replacement, supplement only
With over 1,220 calories and 40 grams of all-whey protein per serving, this mass gainer packs a serious caloric punch for anyone struggling to add size. The 6:1 carb-to-protein ratio leans heavily on carbs, which makes sense if your goal is rapid weight gain and you train hard enough to use that energy. The whey protein brings 9 grams of naturally occurring BCAAs, plus there’s pure creatine monohydrate mixed in, so you get two muscle-building helpers in one scoop. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense formula for lifters who want a high-calorie shake that supports recovery and growth without extra frills.
A carb load of 250+ grams per serving means this isn’t a light sipper, it’s a substantial shake that works best when you’re committed to a high-calorie diet and intense training. Compared to something like GHOST Clear Gains, which keeps carbs lower at 70g, Rule 1’s offering is clearly aimed at the hardgainer who needs maximum calories in a single drink. You’ll also need to mix two scoops with 18-20 ounces of liquid, so it’s not a quick on-the-go option. If your priority is a clean, whey-based mass gainer with added creatine and you can handle the carb load, this fits the bill.
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Nutricost Mass Gainer Powder
What We Like
- 50g protein per serving
- Includes creatine monohydrate and L-glutamine
- Non-GMO and lab-tested
- Manufactured in GMP-compliant facility
Trade-offs
- Only 9 servings per container
- Contains whey concentrate, not for lactose-sensitive
- Higher carb profile typical of mass gainers
Fifty grams of protein per serving is a serious starting point for anyone trying to pack on muscle without blending half a dozen scoops. Nutricost Mass Gainer pairs that protein with creatine monohydrate and L-glutamine, two ingredients that support strength and recovery, so you’re not just drinking empty calories. It delivers a straightforward weight gainer with a solid protein hit and extra muscle-building helpers in one tub.
Each 6.7-pound container holds nine servings, so you’ll be ordering again sooner than you would with a larger tub like the Ultimate Nutrition Muscle Juice 2544. That container weighs 10 pounds and provides more servings per purchase. For someone who goes through mass gainer quickly, the smaller size might mean more frequent reorders and potentially higher long-term cost. On the other hand, the compact 7.3-pound package is easier to store and carry than bulkier options. Reviewers note that the trade-off in serving count is something to consider if you prefer buying in larger quantities to reduce how often you restock.
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How We Evaluated Supplements To Put On Muscle Mass
We started by examining each product’s nutrition label and ingredient list, focusing on the calorie count per serving, the type and amount of protein, and the carbohydrate-to-protein ratio. Manufacturer documentation provided the base specs, and we cross-referenced those with expert round-ups and long-term user feedback to understand how each formula performs in real-world bulking cycles.
The four criteria that mattered most were calorie density for creating a surplus, protein quality and digestibility for muscle repair, carb source and sugar content for steady energy, and added ingredients like creatine or BCAAs that support strength and recovery. A high-calorie gainer is useless if the protein blend causes bloating or the carb load comes mostly from simple sugars.
No guide can replace personal trial with your own digestion and training schedule. Our evaluation is research-based and descriptive, not a substitute for checking how a formula sits in your stomach after a heavy squat session. If you want to dig deeper into the science, our guide on gain muscle mass covers the physiology behind the surplus.
What To Look For In Supplements To Put On Muscle Mass
Choosing a mass gainer means matching the calorie load, protein type, and carb profile to your daily eating habits and digestion tolerance. The right product fits your schedule, not just your goal number.
Look for a protein blend that includes both fast-absorbing whey and slow-digesting casein for sustained amino acid delivery. Aim for at least 50g of protein per serving if you are a serious hardgainer. Check the sugar content: some gainers rely heavily on maltodextrin, which can spike insulin.
Calorie Density and Serving Size
Mass gainers typically range from low to over 1,500 calories per serving. The higher the calorie count, the fewer shakes you need per day to reach your surplus, but larger servings mean more powder and more liquid to mix. A multi-scoop serving can be a chore to drink, especially if you are not used to that volume.
For most hardgainers, a product in the range of roughly 1,200 calories strikes a good balance between density and drinkability. If you are smaller or just starting out, consider starting with a half-serving to let your digestion adjust before scaling up.
Protein Source and Blend
Whey concentrate is the most common and affordable protein base, but it can cause bloating for lactose-sensitive individuals. Whey isolate digests faster with less lactose, while casein clots in the stomach for a slower release. Many top gainers use a blend of whey and casein to cover both fast and slow absorption windows.
Some formulas use beef protein isolate (lactose-free) or egg protein for those with dairy issues. If you want a single-source protein, look for an all-whey formula like the Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer. If clean ingredients matter most, the best mass gainers with minimal additives are worth comparing.
Carb Profile and Sugar Content
Carbs in mass gainers come from sources like maltodextrin, oat flour, barley, or organic tapioca. Maltodextrin is cheap and mixes easily but has a high glycemic index, which can lead to energy crashes. Whole-food carb sources like oats and barley provide slower-digesting energy and more fiber.
Check the sugar grams per serving. Some gainers pack over 100g of sugar, which is fine for extreme hardgainers but problematic for anyone watching insulin sensitivity. A good rule is to keep added sugar under 20g per serving and let the complex carbs do the heavy lifting.
- Read the serving size before buying, a 2-scoop serving is very different from a 6-scoop serving.
- Look for a protein-to-carb ratio that matches your daily macros.
- Check for digestive enzymes added to the formula if you are prone to bloating.
- Verify third-party testing (NSF, Informed Choice) if you compete or care about purity.
- Consider the flavor options and whether you are willing to mix in your own flavoring.
A mass gainer should supplement your diet, not replace it. Plan your shakes around whole meals, not instead of them.
Supplements To Put On Muscle Mass Compared
The table below compares each mass gainer across the criteria that matter most for putting on muscle: calories, protein, carb load, and key extras like creatine or BCAAs.
| Product | Calories per serving | Protein per serving | Carbs per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultimate Nutrition Muscle Juice 2544 Mass Gainer | 1020 | 55g | 162g |
| Dymatize Super Mass Gainer | 1,280 | 52g | 245g |
| Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Weight Gainer | 1,200+ | 50g | 250g+ |
| GHOST Clear Gains Mass Gainer | 440 | 40g | 70g |
| NAKED Mass Natural Weight Gainer | 1,250 | 50g | 252g |
| Mutant Mass Extreme Gainer | 1,100 | 56g | N/A |
| MuscleMeds CARNIVOR Mass Gainer | Over 700 | 50g | 125g |
| MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer | 1,500 | 60g | 304g |
| Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer | 1,220+ | 40g | 250g+ |
| Nutricost Mass Gainer Powder | N/A | 50g | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do mass gainers help you put on muscle?
Mass gainers provide a dense source of calories, protein, and carbs in a single shake, making it easier to reach a calorie surplus without eating multiple extra meals. The protein supports muscle repair after training, while the carbs replenish glycogen stores and keep energy levels high for the next workout.
Can I use a mass gainer if I am lactose intolerant?
Yes, but you need to choose a lactose-free formula. The MuscleMeds CARNIVOR Mass Gainer uses beef protein isolate with zero lactose, and the GHOST Clear Gains Mass Gainer uses whey isolate, which contains minimal lactose. Most standard whey concentrate-based gainers will cause digestive issues for sensitive individuals.
Should I take a mass gainer before or after my workout?
Most lifters use mass gainers as a between-meal shake or post-workout recovery drink. The fast-digesting whey in the blend helps kickstart muscle repair immediately after training, while the casein provides a slower release for hours afterward. Avoid drinking a full serving right before training, as the volume can cause discomfort during exercise.
How do I choose between a mass gainer and a regular protein powder?
A mass gainer is designed for calorie surplus and includes significant carbs and fats alongside protein. A regular protein powder has fewer calories and is used to hit protein targets without adding much to your daily total. If you struggle to gain weight or have a fast metabolism, a mass gainer is the better choice. If you are maintaining or cutting, stick with a standard protein.
Do I need to take creatine separately if my mass gainer already has it?
If your mass gainer lists creatine monohydrate on the label, you do not need to add extra creatine unless you want a higher daily dose. Products like the MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer and the Nutricost Mass Gainer Powder include creatine in the formula. Check the serving size to see how much creatine you are actually getting per scoop.
The Bottom Line
The Ultimate Nutrition Muscle Juice 2544 Mass Gainer is the best overall pick for hardgainers who need a high-calorie, multi-source protein shake that supports muscle growth between meals. Its 1,020-calorie serving and 55g protein blend make it a reliable tool for anyone who struggles to eat enough whole food to gain weight.
If you need even more calories per serving, the Dymatize Super Mass Gainer delivers 1,280 calories with added creatine for strength support. Budget-minded lifters should check the Nutricost Mass Gainer Powder, which includes creatine and L-glutamine at an accessible price point. For clean-label fans, the NAKED Mass Natural Weight Gainer uses just three ingredients.
The single most important factor when choosing a mass gainer is whether you can actually drink the serving size consistently. No formula works if it sits untouched in the cupboard because the volume or taste puts you off. For more on the best supplements for putting on muscle, including pre-workout and protein options, see our full resource.


