10 Best Muscle Gainer Supplements in 2026

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The best muscle gainer supplement we found is the Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Weight Gainer, thanks to its high calorie count, blended protein with creatine and BCAAs, and over 20 vitamins and minerals. For a cleaner option, the Transparent Labs Mass Gainer Protein Powder stands out, while the Dymatize Super Mass Gainer offers the highest protein per serving.

The real challenge with mass gainers is finding one that fits your specific build and goals without loading you up with ingredients you do not want. A 1,200-calorie shake works for one person but overwhelms another, and carb counts vary wildly between formulas.

We built this guide by examining manufacturer specifications, ingredient panels, and the patterns in what real users report about taste, mixability, and results. Our goal is to help you match a product to your calorie needs, dietary restrictions, and training phase without guesswork.

Top 10 Muscle Gainer Supplements in the Market

Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided "as is" and is subject to change or removal at any time.

The Best Muscle Gainer Supplements, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Weight Gainer

Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Weight Gainer
Calories per serving1,200+
Protein per serving50g
Carbohydrates per serving250g+
Key extrasCreatine, Glutamine, BCAAs
Vitamins & minerals20+ essential
Check Latest Price →

What We Like

  • High calorie count for serious bulking
  • Blended protein with creatine and BCAAs
  • Includes 20+ vitamins and minerals
  • Easy to customize with mix-ins

Trade-offs

  • 2-scoop serving requires planning to finish
  • Not suitable for low-carb diets

Over 1,200 calories per two-scoop serving make this a straightforward tool for anyone struggling to eat enough for weight gain. That calorie density, paired with 50 grams of blended protein and a hefty 250-plus grams of carbs, means you’re getting a serious energy and recovery boost in one shake. The addition of creatine, glutamine, BCAAs, and over 20 vitamins and minerals rounds out the nutritional profile nicely, so you aren’t just adding empty calories. This is the kind of product that fits best when your daily diet needs a reliable push toward your bulking goals without a lot of fuss.

The 250-plus grams of carbs per serving can feel heavy if you’re not used to high-carb intakes or if you’re sensitive to blood sugar swings. Compared to Transparent Labs Mass Gainer, which offers 110 grams of carbs per serving, Serious Mass provides more than double that amount. For someone who wants a straightforward, calorie-dense mass gainer with added performance ingredients from a brand that markets itself as the world’s number one sports nutrition brand, this is a practical, no-surprises choice.

Best for: Anyone needing a high-calorie, nutrient-packed mass gainer for serious bulking phases, especially those who struggle to eat enough. Not ideal for people who prefer lower-carb or lighter shakes.
#2Best High-Protein Formula

Dymatize Super Mass Gainer

Dymatize Super Mass Gainer
Protein per serving52g
Calories per serving1280
Protein typesWhey + Casein
Creatine per serving1g
BCAAs per serving10.7g
Check Latest Price →

What We Like

  • 52g protein per serving
  • Blend of fast and slow proteins
  • Includes 1g creatine per serving
  • 14 essential vitamins and minerals

Trade-offs

  • 1g creatine is a small amount per dose
  • 1280 calories per serving is extremely high for most people

A single serving packs 52 grams of protein, which is a serious head start for anyone trying to build muscle without spending all day eating. That protein comes from both whey and casein, so you get a quick hit for recovery plus a slow release that keeps fueling your muscles for hours. It also sneaks in 1 gram of creatine and 10.7 grams of BCAAs per scoop, along with 14 vitamins and minerals, making this a fairly complete recovery shake in one glass. If your goal is straightforward mass gain and you want a formula that does more than just dump calories, this blend is designed to support both immediate repair and long-term growth.

The carb load here is 245 grams per serving. That is a lot to handle if you don’t have a huge appetite or a very active day ahead. The creatine dose is also modest at just one gram, so you might want to add more separately if you’re serious about strength. Still, if you want a protein-forward, nutrient-packed gainer that covers multiple recovery angles in one scoop, this is a smart, straightforward pick.

Best for: Hard gainers who want a high-protein, calorie-dense shake with added creatine and vitamins. Not ideal for those watching carb intake or preferring a lower-calorie mass gainer.

Product photos

#3Best High-Protein Mass Gainer

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pro Gainer

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pro Gainer
Calories per serving650
Protein per serving60g
Carbs per serving80g+
Sugar per servingLess than 8g
Weight10.2 pounds
Check Latest Price →

What We Like

  • 60g protein per serving
  • 650 calories for mass gains
  • Includes vitamins and minerals

Trade-offs

  • Not ideal for those seeking a low-carb formula
  • Not for those wanting a low-carb option

Sixty grams of protein per serving is the standout number here. That is more than most mass gainers pack into a single scoop, giving your muscles a serious dose of building blocks after a tough session. With 650 calories and over 80 grams of carbohydrates, this is designed for the person who struggles to eat enough throughout the day and wants a convenient way to tip the scale toward growth.

The sheer size of the tub, at over 10 pounds, is something to consider. It is not something you will toss in a gym bag, so plan to scoop at home. Compared to Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass, which includes creatine and glutamine, this Pro Gainer offers a different nutrient profile with 60g protein and over 80g carbs per serving. It is a fit if you want a high-protein gainer and are okay with the big container taking up pantry space.

Best for: Anyone needing a high-protein mass gainer with over 80g carbs and less than 8g sugar per serving for muscle support. Not ideal for those who prefer a low-carb formula.
#4Best Clean Ingredients

Transparent Labs Mass Gainer Protein Powder

Transparent Labs Mass Gainer Protein Powder
Calories per serving770
Protein per serving53 g
Carbs per serving110 g+
Creatine per serving3 g
Protein sourceGrass-fed whey
Check Latest Price →

What We Like

  • 53g grass-fed whey protein per serving
  • 3g clinically dosed creatine monohydrate
  • No artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives
  • Third-party tested with Certificate of Analysis

Trade-offs

  • Only 15 servings per container
  • 770 calories per serving is very high for smaller appetites.

With 770 calories and 53 grams of grass-fed whey per serving, this mass gainer delivers a high-calorie formula from sources like oat flour, tapioca maltodextrin, and sweet potato powder. The added 3 grams of creatine monohydrate provides a clinically dosed boost for strength and recovery. It’s free from artificial sweeteners, colors, and preservatives, and third-party testing with a Certificate of Analysis backs its purity. If you read ingredient labels and want a clean supplement, this one avoids mystery additives.

At 770 calories, this mass gainer packs a heavy caloric load that can be tough to finish in one sitting, especially if you’re not used to dense shakes. It delivers 53 grams of grass-fed whey protein and 3 grams of creatine monohydrate per scoop, which supports both muscle recovery and strength gains. If you prefer a cleaner ingredient profile, no artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives, this formula stands out among high-calorie options.

Best for: Lifters who want a high-calorie, clean-ingredient mass gainer with added creatine. Not ideal for those seeking a low-carb or lower-calorie weight gain formula.
#5Best Natural Formula

NAKED Mass Natural Weight Gainer

NAKED Mass Natural Weight Gainer
Calories per serving1,250
Protein per serving50g
Carbs per serving252g
CertificationNSF Certified
Check Latest Price →

What We Like

  • Only three clean ingredients
  • NSF Certified for purity and safety
  • Fast-release whey plus slow-digesting casein
  • Gluten-free, soy-free, no artificial anything

Trade-offs

  • Unflavored, needs mixing with other ingredients for taste
  • Requires high-calorie diet and exercise for results

Fifty grams of protein and 1,250 calories per serving come from just three ingredients: Naked Whey, Naked Casein, and organic tapioca maltodextrin. That simplicity is the whole point. If you want a weight gainer that skips the artificial sweeteners, colors, and mystery fillers, this is your pick. The dual-protein blend combines fast-release whey with slow-digesting micellar casein, so you get steady amino acid support between meals. It’s also NSF Certified for purity and safety, meaning what’s on the label is what’s in the tub, no hidden surprises.

With 252 grams of carbs, this mass gainer is built for hard gainers who need a serious calorie surplus to pack on weight, not for anyone cutting carbs. Since it’s unflavored, you control the taste by blending in milk, fruit, or cocoa, ideal if you like customizing your shake. If you prefer a ready-to-drink flavor, Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass comes in chocolate.

Best for: Hard gainers who want a pure weight gainer with no artificial ingredients. Not ideal for anyone seeking a flavored ready-to-drink shake or a low-carb bulking option.

Product photos

#6Best Carb-to-Protein Ratio

Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer

Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer
Calories per serving1,220+
Carb-to-protein ratio6:1
Protein per serving40g all-whey
Carbohydrates per serving250g+
Creatine addedPure creatine monohydrate
Check Latest Price →

What We Like

  • 6:1 carb-to-protein ratio
  • All-whey protein with 9g BCAAs
  • Includes pure creatine monohydrate
  • Made in GMP-certified US facility

Trade-offs

  • Needs high-calorie diet and training for results
  • Not a meal replacement, use alongside food

A 6:1 carb-to-protein ratio means every serving packs over 250 grams of carbs alongside 40 grams of all-whey protein. So you get the fuel to refill glycogen stores and the building blocks for muscle repair in one shake. That ratio is notably carb-forward, which suits anyone who burns through energy fast during heavy lifting or high-intensity training and needs to tip the scale toward weight gain without guessing how much of each macronutrient they’re getting. The added creatine monohydrate rounds out the formula for anyone who wants a straightforward, no-fuss mass builder that leans on proven ingredients.

This gainer demands you pair it with a high-calorie diet and consistent training. It’s a supplement, not a shortcut, so if you’re not eating enough or skipping workouts, those calories will just sit there. It’s a clean, US-made option for anyone ready to commit to the full program of eating big and lifting heavy.

Best for: Athletes and lifters who want a carb-heavy, all-whey gainer with added creatine for post-workout recovery and mass building. Not ideal for those seeking a meal replacement or a slower-digesting protein blend.

Product photos

#7Best For Extreme Bulking

Ronnie Coleman Signature Series King Mass XL

Ronnie Coleman Signature Series King Mass XL
Protein Per Serving60g
Carbs Per Serving180g
Calories Per Serving1000+
Scoops Per Bag108
Added IngredientsCreatine & Glutamine
Check Latest Price →

What We Like

  • 60g protein per full serving
  • 180g carbs for glycogen recovery
  • Includes creatine and glutamine
  • 108 scoops per bag

Trade-offs

  • Calorie density makes portion control tricky
  • Not suitable for low-carb or keto diets

With 1,000-plus calories and 60 grams of protein in a single serving, this mass gainer is built for one job: packing on serious size when you’re training hard and eating big. The 180 grams of carbohydrates per serving are intended to crank insulin and push glycogen into your muscles, supporting recovery for your next workout. It also includes creatine and glutamine, so you’re getting extra recovery support without needing a separate tub. That makes it a straightforward option if your goal is bulking and you don’t mind a calorie-dense shake to get there.

This isn’t a subtle supplement. The carb load is high, which means it works best for people who are already eating high-calorie diets and training with serious volume. If you’re trying to add weight without a ton of carbs or you prefer a leaner gainer, this one will feel heavy. But for anyone who wants a high-protein, high-calorie shake that also includes creatine and glutamine, King Mass XL delivers on its stated specs.

Best for: Anyone committed to bulking who wants a high-calorie, high-protein shake with added creatine and glutamine. Not ideal for those on low-carb diets or looking for a lean mass gainer.

Product photos

#8Best Dairy-Free Option

MuscleMeds Carnivor Mass Anabolic Beef Protein Gainer

MuscleMeds Carnivor Mass Anabolic Beef Protein Gainer
Protein Source100% Beef Protein Isolate
Weight6 pounds
Dietary FeaturesLactose, Sugar, Dairy, Gluten Free
Check Latest Price →

What We Like

  • 100% beef protein isolate for muscle support
  • Dairy-free and lactose-free formula
  • Gluten-free and sugar-free design

Trade-offs

  • Not suitable for those avoiding beef protein
  • Requires commitment to a single flavor (Strawberry)

If your stomach rebels against dairy-based mass gainers, this 100% beef protein isolate formula skips lactose, sugar, dairy, and gluten entirely. That makes it a practical choice for anyone who wants a straightforward weight gainer without the bloating or digestive issues that often come with whey or casein blends. The protein supports muscle mass, strength, and recovery, so you’re not sacrificing results for comfort.

For anyone who struggles with dairy or gluten, this weight gainer is built around 100% beef protein isolate, making it a stomach-friendly option that skips the usual whey-based formulas. The 6-pound container is roughly the same size as many competitors but noticeably heavier than Dymatize Super Mass Gainer’s 1.3-pound tub, so it’s less convenient to toss in a gym bag. Lifters who want to avoid lactose, sugar, and gluten while supporting muscle mass and recovery will find this a reliable fit.

Best for: People with dairy sensitivities or lactose intolerance who want a clean mass gainer. Not ideal for those who prefer traditional whey-based flavors or need a smaller, travel-friendly container.
#9Best For Lean Muscle Mass

NutraBio Extreme Mass Gainer Protein Powder

NutraBio Extreme Mass Gainer Protein Powder
Protein per serving53g
Carbs per serving99g
Fat per serving6g
Protein sourcesWPC80 + Micellar Casein
Dietary certificationsGluten-free, soy-free, kosher, halal
Check Latest Price →

What We Like

  • 53g protein per serving
  • Only 6g fat per serving
  • Gluten-free, soy-free, kosher, halal
  • Third-party tested for purity

Trade-offs

  • Contains whey and casein, not dairy-free

With 53 grams of protein and just 6 grams of fat per serving, this mass gainer leans hard toward muscle-building without piling on extra grease. The blend of whey concentrate and micellar casein gives you both fast- and slow-digesting protein, so your muscles get a steady stream of amino acids for recovery and growth. That makes it a smart pick if you want to add lean mass rather than just bulk up with whatever calories you can find.

The carb count here is 99 grams per serving. That fuels your workouts but might feel like more than you need if you’re not training intensely or watching your sugar intake. If you’re serious about building muscle without mystery ingredients, this is a clean option that respects your goals.

Best for: Athletes and bodybuilders focused on adding lean muscle mass with a clean, transparent protein blend. Not ideal for those seeking a lower-carb or dairy-free weight gainer.
#10Best Large Tub Value

Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer Chocolate Fudge

Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer Chocolate Fudge
Calories560 per serving
Protein30g per serving
Carbs99g per serving
Servings36 per tub
Weight12 pounds
Check Latest Price →

What We Like

  • 560 calories for energy and recovery
  • 30g protein from whey, milk, casein
  • 99g multi-source carbs including quinoa, oat flour
  • Informed Choice Certified for banned substance safety

Trade-offs

  • 12-pound tub is heavy to handle and store
  • Requires consistent use with diet and training for results

With 36 servings and 560 calories per scoop, this 12-pound tub gives you a steady supply of quality calories to fuel workouts and support lean mass gains when paired with resistance training. The protein blend of whey, milk, and micellar casein provides a mix of fast and slow-digesting amino acids, while the carb source includes organic quinoa, oat flour, and maltodextrin. That thoughtful ingredient list, plus third-party testing for banned substances, makes it a smart pick for anyone who wants a bigger tub without sacrificing what goes inside.

With 99 grams of carbs per serving, this is a substantial amount. If your goal is strictly muscle gain with moderate carb intake, a gainer with a different carb-to-protein ratio might fit better. But if you need a calorie-dense gainer that lasts through a full month of training without running out, this Rival Nutrition tub delivers real value for the money.

Best for: Athletes and lifters who want a large, affordable tub of clean gainer with quality ingredients and verified safety. Not ideal for those seeking a lower-carb mass gainer or a smaller, lighter container.

Product photos

How We Evaluated Muscle Gainer Supplements

Our research focused on what actually determines whether a mass gainer helps or collects dust in the cupboard. We looked at manufacturer data sheets, ingredient transparency reports, and the consistent feedback patterns from thousands of owner experiences across multiple retail platforms.

The three criteria that mattered most were calorie density per serving, protein-to-carbohydrate ratio, and ingredient quality. A gainer with too few calories defeats the purpose for hard gainers, while one with excessive sugar or fillers can leave you feeling sluggish. We also prioritized third-party testing and clean-label certifications because supplements are not tightly regulated.

A research-led evaluation has limits: we did not personally mix and drink every shake, nor did we track body composition changes over a controlled trial. Instead, we cross-referenced specs with what the community consistently reports about digestive comfort, satiety, and real-world results. For a deeper look at the category, our comprehensive mass gainer guide covers the full landscape.

What To Look For In Muscle Gainer Supplements

Choosing a mass gainer starts with matching the calorie and protein numbers to your body weight and daily surplus target. From there, ingredient sourcing and carb type determine whether the shake works with your digestion and diet.

Pick a mass gainer with a calorie range that fits your goals, protein content that supports muscle repair, and a carb-to-protein ratio that matches your activity level. Check for added creatine or BCAAs if you want extra lifting support, and avoid artificial sweeteners if you have a sensitive stomach.

Calories and Serving Size

The calorie count per serving is the single most important number on the label. A bulk phase typically requires a calorie surplus above maintenance, so a high-calorie shake can cover most of that in one drink. Smaller appetites may prefer a lower-calorie option like the Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pro Gainer, which still delivers 60g of protein without overwhelming you.

Protein Source and Amount

Protein quality matters as much as quantity. Blends of fast-digesting whey and slow-digesting casein provide a steady amino acid release, while all-whey formulas like the Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer work well post-workout. For dairy-sensitive lifters, beef protein isolates such as the MuscleMeds Carnivor Mass offer a complete alternative. Look for enough protein per serving to support muscle repair.

Carb Type and Carb-to-Protein Ratio

  • Check whether the carbs come from oats, maltodextrin, or quinoa flour, whole-food sources digest more evenly.
  • Match the carb-to-protein ratio to your training: a 6:1 ratio supports glycogen recovery after intense sessions.
  • Avoid formulas with more than 15g of sugar per serving unless you are okay with a sugar spike.
  • Verify serving size before buying, some “low calorie” gainers require two scoops to reach the listed numbers.

A 2:1 or 3:1 carb-to-protein ratio works for most people, while 6:1 ratios are best reserved for post-workout recovery only.

Muscle Gainer Supplements Compared

The table below compares the 10 mass gainers side by side so you can see calorie counts, protein content, and key features at a glance.

ProductCalories per servingProtein per servingCarbohydrates per serving
Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Weight Gainer1,200+50g250g+
Dymatize Super Mass Gainer128052g245g
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pro Gainer65060g80g+
Transparent Labs Mass Gainer Protein Powder77053 g110 g+
NAKED Mass Natural Weight Gainer1,25050g252g
Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer1,220+40g250g+
Ronnie Coleman Signature Series King Mass XL1000+60g180g
MuscleMeds Carnivor Mass Anabolic Beef Protein GainerN/AN/AN/A
NutraBio Extreme Mass Gainer Protein PowderN/A53g99g
Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer Chocolate Fudge56030g99g

Frequently Asked Questions

How do muscle gainer supplements work?

They provide a concentrated dose of calories, protein, and carbohydrates in a single shake. The idea is to make hitting a calorie surplus easier for people who struggle to eat enough whole food to gain weight.

Should I take a mass gainer before or after a workout?

Post-workout is the most common timing because your muscles are primed to absorb nutrients for recovery. Some people also use a half-serving between meals to increase total daily calories without feeling too full.

Are mass gainers safe for everyday use?

Yes, when used as directed and as part of a balanced diet. The safety depends on the ingredient quality, look for third-party testing certifications like NSF or Informed Choice to avoid contaminants or banned substances.

What is the difference between a mass gainer and a protein powder?

Mass gainers include carbohydrates and fats alongside protein, making them much higher in total calories. Standard protein powders focus on 20-30g of protein per scoop with very few carbs, which suits lean muscle maintenance or cutting phases.

Can I use a mass gainer if I am lactose intolerant?

Yes, but you need a dairy-free formulas like the MuscleMeds Carnivor Mass, which uses beef protein isolate. Most whey-based gainers contain lactose and can cause digestive discomfort if you are sensitive.

The Bottom Line

The Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Weight Gainer earns the best overall spot because it packs over 1,200 calories per serving with a thoughtful protein blend and a full vitamin profile. It is the go-to choice for anyone in a serious bulk phase who needs a reliable calorie surplus in one shake.

If cleaner ingredients matter more to you, the Transparent Labs Mass Gainer delivers 53g of grass-fed whey and clinically dosed creatine with no artificial anything. For dairy-free needs, the MuscleMeds Carnivor Mass uses beef protein isolate and skips lactose entirely. For more context on related categories, our guides on protein supplements and workout supplements cover the broader landscape.

The single most important buying factor is matching the calorie serving size to your personal surplus target, too few and you spin your wheels, too many and you gain more fat than muscle. Pick the number, then pick the powder.