10 Best Protein Powders For Weight Gain in 2026

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The best protein powder for weight gain is the Dymatize Super Mass Gainer, winning on its dense 52g protein and 1,280 calories per serving with a fast- and slow-digesting protein blend. For a classic option with over 1,200 calories and added creatine, look to Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Gainer. Vegans and dairy-sensitive lifters should consider the NAKED Vegan Mass Gainer for its NSF-certified, clean ingredient profile.

Gaining weight, especially lean muscle, requires a consistent calorie surplus. The challenge is consuming enough calories and protein without feeling overly full or bloated. Mass gainers simplify this by packing high protein, carbohydrates, and fats into a single shake, but not all formulas are created equal.

We built this guide by analyzing manufacturer specifications, expert round-ups, and patterns in owner feedback. We focused on protein content, calorie density, ingredient quality, and digestibility to help you choose the right supplement for your goals.

Top 10 Protein Powders For Weight Gain in the Market

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The Best Protein Powders For Weight Gain, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Dymatize Super Mass Gainer

Dymatize Super Mass Gainer
Protein per serving52g
Calories per serving1280
Carbohydrates per serving245g
Protein typesWhey + Casein
Creatine per serving1g
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What We Like

  • 52g protein per serving for muscle repair
  • 1280 calories boost energy needs
  • Fast- and slow-digesting protein blend
  • Includes 1g creatine for power support

Trade-offs

  • Only 8 servings per 6 lb container
  • Not suitable for low-carb diets

A single serving delivers 1,280 calories and 52 grams of protein, making it a dense option for anyone who needs a big caloric boost to support weight gain. The blend of whey and casein provides both fast- and slow-digesting proteins, and the added 1 gram of creatine per serving supports strength and power during training. This combination means you get sustained protein delivery without needing to mix in extra supplements.

Each serving delivers 245 grams of carbs alongside 1,280 calories, making this a dense option for those who need substantial fuel. If you’re a hardgainer or an athlete burning through energy quickly, that carb load supports rapid replenishment. But for anyone aiming to keep carbohydrate intake moderate while bulking, this formula may feel heavier than desired.

Best for: Anyone who needs a dense, high-calorie shake with fast and slow proteins to support serious muscle gain. Not ideal for those following a low-carb or keto approach.

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#2Best Classic Mass Gainer

Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Gainer

Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Gainer
Calories per servingOver 1,200
Protein per serving50g
Carbohydrates per servingOver 250g
Key additionsCreatine, glutamine, BCAAs, vitamins & minerals
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What We Like

  • Over 1,200 calories per serving
  • 50g blended protein for muscle repair
  • Includes creatine, glutamine, and BCAAs
  • 20+ vitamins and minerals for immune support

Trade-offs

  • Large 2-scoop serving requires mixing effort
  • Not suitable for low-carb or keto diets

Over 1,200 calories and 50 grams of protein per two-scoop serving make this a straightforward tool for anyone who struggles to eat enough for steady weight gain. The protein blend supports muscle repair after training, while the added vitamins and minerals help fill nutritional gaps when you’re focused on bulking. This is the kind of shake you reach for when your appetite can’t keep up with your goals, and the customizable shake builder lets you blend with milk, fruits, or peanut butter for extra calories.

The trade-off is the carb load, over 250 grams per serving, which delivers quick energy but might feel heavy if you prefer a lower-carb approach. Compared to Dymatize Super Mass Gainer, which offers 1,280 calories and 52g protein per serving, Serious Mass provides a similar calorie count with a slightly different protein blend. If you’re looking for a no-nonsense mass gainer that covers the basics, this one fits the bill.

Best for: Anyone who needs a high-calorie, protein-rich shake to support serious weight gain and muscle recovery. Not ideal for those limiting carbs or preferring a smaller serving size.
#3Best Vegan Mass Gainer

NAKED Vegan Mass Gainer

NAKED Vegan Mass Gainer
Calories per serving1,230
Protein per serving50g
Carbs per serving248g
IngredientsPea, rice, tapioca maltodextrin
CertificationNSF Certified
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What We Like

  • NSF Certified for purity and safety
  • Gluten-free organic tapioca carbs
  • Complete amino acid profile from 2:1 pea-to-rice ratio

Trade-offs

  • 11 servings per 8 lb container means frequent repurchasing
  • Unflavored base requires extra mixing and flavoring effort

Each serving delivers 1,230 calories, 50 grams of protein, and 248 grams of carbs from just three ingredients: pea protein, organic rice protein, and organic tapioca maltodextrin. That simplicity is the whole point here. No artificial sweeteners, no soy, no gluten, no dairy. For vegans or anyone avoiding dairy-based mass gainers, this gives you a clean slate to build shakes around. The NSF certification adds real confidence that what’s on the label is what’s in the tub.

You’re getting only 11 servings from that 8-pound bag, so if you’re drinking a shake daily, you’ll be reordering often. And because it’s unflavored, you’ll need to add fruit, nut butter, or cocoa to make it taste like something. But if you want total control over what goes into your weight-gain shake and prefer a plant-based protein source that’s verified clean, this is the one to grab.

Best for: Vegans and dairy-sensitive lifters who want a clean, NSF-certified mass gainer with minimal ingredients and full control over flavor. Not ideal for those who want a ready-to-drink flavored shake straight from the tub.
#4Best Clean Ingredients

NAKED Mass Natural Weight Gainer

NAKED Mass Natural Weight Gainer
Calories per serving1,250
Protein per serving50g
Carbs per serving252g
Sugar per serving5g
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What We Like

  • NSF Certified for purity and safety
  • Gluten-free organic tapioca maltodextrin carbs
  • Multi-phase whey and casein blend

Trade-offs

  • Unflavored, so it needs mixing with strong flavors
  • 8 lb tub is heavy for daily scooping

1,250 calories per serving with just three ingredients, that’s the kind of simplicity that makes NAKED Mass stand out in a shelf full of long, unpronounceable lists. You get 50 grams of protein from a fast-release whey and slow-digesting casein blend, plus 252 grams of clean carbs from organic tapioca maltodextrin. The combination of fast and slow proteins means your body gets amino acids over a longer period, which can support muscle recovery after exercise. It’s NSF Certified, so you know exactly what’s in the tub, and with only 5 grams of sugar per serving, you’re not loading up on empty sweets. Reviewers report this is a straightforward way to add calories without artificial ingredients.

It’s unflavored, so you’ll need to blend it with cocoa, peanut butter, or fruit to make it taste like something you’d actually look forward to. That’s a small extra step for the ingredient transparency you get. NAKED Mass comes in an 8-pound container, which is bulky but gives you more servings per buy. If you’re a hard gainer who values clean sourcing over convenience, this one earns its spot at the top of the clean ingredients list.

Best for: Anyone who wants a high-calorie, low-sugar mass gainer with minimal, NSF-certified ingredients. Not ideal for those who prefer a pre-flavored shake straight out of the bag.

Product photos

#5Best Carb-to-Protein Ratio

BSN True-Mass Weight Gainer

BSN True-Mass Weight Gainer
Calories per serving1200
Carb-to-Protein Ratio4:1
Protein per serving50g
Fiber per serving10g
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What We Like

  • 4:1 carb-to-protein ratio for balanced energy
  • 50g multi-source protein per serving
  • 10g fiber supports digestion
  • 1200 calories per serving

Trade-offs

  • Not suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets
  • Heavy 10.2-pound tub limits portability

A 4:1 ratio of carbs to protein means you get steady energy alongside muscle-building support, not just a sugar spike that fades before your next set. With 1200 calories and 50 grams of protein from whey and casein, this is built for the person who genuinely struggles to eat enough throughout the day. It wants a shake that pulls double duty: fueling hard training and helping recovery last. The 10 grams of fiber is a thoughtful addition that keeps things moving, so you are not left feeling sluggish after downing a high-calorie shake.

The trade-off here is that a single serving is a serious commitment to drink. If you are someone who already feels full after a normal meal, this much liquid volume can be a chore rather than a boost. Compared to other mass gainers on the market, BSN True-Mass provides 1200 calories per serving with a 4:1 carb-to-protein ratio, which supports sustained energy rather than a quick carb dump.

Best for: Hardgainers and active lifters who want a balanced, high-calorie shake with extra fiber to support digestion. Not ideal for those who prefer smaller, more frequent servings or a lower total calorie count per shake.
#6Best Whole-Food Ingredients

Mutant Mass Extreme Gainer

Mutant Mass Extreme Gainer
Calories per serving1,100
Protein per serving56 g
Protein blendWhey isolate, concentrate, casein
Whole-food ingredientsBarley, sweet potato, oats, avocado, flaxseed
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What We Like

  • 1,100 calories and 56 g protein per serving
  • Whole-food ingredients like barley, sweet potato, avocado
  • Includes BCAAs, EAAs, glutamine, and arginine

Trade-offs

  • Only 16 servings per pouch means frequent repurchasing

With 1,100 calories and 56 grams of protein per serving, this gainer packs serious fuel for anyone trying to add weight without relying on processed fillers. That whole-food approach makes it a smart pick if you want the convenience of a shake but prefer ingredients you can recognize.

Portion control is the challenge: each serving delivers 1,100 calories, which is a big jump for someone just starting to bulk or aiming for modest gains. If you need a more moderate calorie count per scoop, something like Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Gainer offers a different calorie profile. But if you want a dense, whole-food-based shake that simplifies hitting a high calorie goal, this one earns its spot for ingredient quality.

Best for: Anyone who wants a high-calorie gainer with recognizable whole-food ingredients.

Product photos

#7Best With Creatine

MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer

MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer
Calories per Serving1,500 calories
Protein per Serving60g
CreatineHPLC-tested creatine monohydrate
Servings per Tub~42 scoops
FlavorVanilla Milkshake
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What We Like

  • 60g protein per serving
  • Includes HPLC-tested creatine monohydrate
  • 1,500 calories for serious mass gain

Trade-offs

  • 6-scoop serving yields a large, dense shake
  • Not suitable for those avoiding creatine monohydrate

A single serving delivers 1,500 calories and 60 grams of protein when mixed with skim milk, enough fuel to push past stubborn weight plateaus without needing multiple shakes a day. The added HPLC-tested creatine monohydrate targets ATP replenishment, which can help you grind out an extra rep or two in the gym. That makes it a useful choice for lifters who already know creatine works for them but prefer getting it in their shake instead of a separate powder.

Each serving packs 60 grams of protein and 1,500 calories when mixed with skim milk, making it one of the most calorie-dense mass gainers available. That means you get more fuel per scoop compared to a product like Dymatize Super Mass Gainer, which delivers 1,280 calories per serving. The trade-off is a hefty drink that some might find hard to finish in one sitting, so it’s best for those who want a complete calorie-and-creatine package and don’t mind a denser shake.

Best for: Lifters who want a high-calorie shake with built-in creatine for strength gains. Not ideal for those avoiding high carbs or preferring smaller serving sizes.

Product photos

#8Best All-Whey Mass Gainer

Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer

Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer
Calories per serving1,220+
Protein per serving40g
Carb blend per serving250g+
CreatinePure monohydrate added
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What We Like

  • 40g all-whey protein per serving
  • 1,220+ calories for serious weight gain
  • Enhanced with pure creatine monohydrate
  • Made in GMP-certified US facilities

Trade-offs

  • Needs a high-calorie diet and training to work
  • Only 8 servings per container

With over 1,220 calories and 40 grams of all-whey protein per serving, this mass gainer is built for anyone who struggles to pack on size through food alone. The 250-gram-plus carb blend delivers a high-calorie formula, while the added creatine monohydrate is included in the mix. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense formula for lifters who want a whey-based option that delivers big numbers without filler proteins.

The 6:1 carb-to-protein ratio leans heavily on carbs, great for hardgainers but less ideal if you’re trying to keep carbs in check. The directions say to mix with water or milk and to combine it with a high-calorie diet and weight training.

Best for: Hardgainers who want a high-calorie, whey-based mass gainer with added creatine for muscle growth. Not ideal for those seeking a lower-carb or casein-blend option.

Product photos

#9Best High-Protein Low-Fat

NutraBio Extreme Mass Gainer

NutraBio Extreme Mass Gainer
Protein per serving53g
Carbs per serving99g
Fat per serving6g
Protein sourceWPC80 + Micellar Casein
CertificationsGluten-free, soy-free, kosher, halal
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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

  • 6-pound tub is bulky for travel
  • Only 6g of fat per serving limits healthy fat intake

With 53 grams of protein and just 6 grams of fat per serving, this mass gainer leans hard into muscle-building without loading you up with extra grease. That high-protein, low-fat ratio makes it a good fit for adding size while keeping your macros clean. The blend of whey concentrate and micellar casein provides a complete amino acid profile to support nitrogen retention and muscle recovery.

The 99 grams of carbs per serving is substantial, fine if you’re training hard and need the energy, but maybe more than you want if you’re watching your carb intake. Compared to other mass gainers on the market, NutraBio keeps the fat lower and the protein higher, making it a leaner choice for steady, controlled weight gain.

Best for: Athletes and bodybuilders who want high protein and low fat in a mass gainer. Not ideal for those seeking a low-carb or keto-friendly option.
#10Best Beef Protein Gainer

MuscleMeds CARNIVOR Mass Gainer

MuscleMeds CARNIVOR Mass Gainer
Protein per serving50 g
Calories per servingOver 700
Carbs per serving125 g
Fat per serving0 g
Protein sourceBeef protein isolate
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What We Like

  • Zero fat and zero sugar per serving
  • Lactose free and Halal certified
  • 50g beef protein isolate with BCAAs
  • Over 700 calories per serving

Trade-offs

  • 6-pound tub is heavy for travel or gym bag
  • Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans due to beef protein

Fifty grams of beef protein isolate per serving delivers a concentrated amino acid profile with zero fat and zero sugar. That makes this mass gainer a good option for adding serious calories without extra junk. The lactose-free formula helps if dairy-based powders upset your stomach. The product is formulated for high-speed macronutrient delivery, with proteins and carbohydrates that absorb quickly to support protein and glycogen synthesis, which may aid muscle recovery and growth under ideal conditions.

The carb load is 125 grams per serving, which is a lot, so if you’re someone who prefers a lower-carb approach or a slower energy release, this might feel like overkill. For lifters who want a clean, dairy-free, high-calorie option with fast-digesting protein, this fits the bill.

Best for: Anyone who wants a high-calorie, lactose-free mass gainer built around fast-absorbing beef protein isolate and zero fat. Not ideal for those who prefer lower-carb formulas or a more traditional whey taste.

How We Evaluated Protein Powders For Weight Gain

Our evaluation is research-based, drawing from manufacturer nutritional data, expert commentary on sports nutrition, and common themes in user experiences. We assessed each product against the criteria that matter most for weight gain.

The four criteria we prioritized were protein quality and quantity, calorie density, ingredient transparency, and digestibility. Protein content needed to be substantial (40g or more per serving) to support muscle repair. Calorie density had to be high enough to create a surplus without requiring massive shake volumes. We favored products with clear labels and third-party certifications like NSF. Digestibility was judged by protein source (whey, casein, plant blends) and the inclusion of digestive enzymes or fiber.

A research-led evaluation has limits. We cannot speak to long-term taste fatigue or how a powder mixes in a shaker versus a blender. Our goal is to narrow your options based on verifiable facts, so you can test the final shortlist with confidence.

What To Look For In Protein Powders For Weight Gain

Choosing a mass gainer means balancing calories, protein, and ingredient quality. Here is what to check before you buy.

Prioritize a product with at least 40g of protein and a high number of calories per serving. Look for a multi-source protein blend and verify ingredient purity with third-party certifications.

Protein Content and Source

The protein in a mass gainer fuels muscle repair and growth. Look for at least 40g per serving. Blends that combine fast-digesting whey with slow-digesting casein provide a sustained release of amino acids. For plant-based options, a 2:1 pea-to-rice protein ratio delivers a complete amino acid profile. If you are lactose intolerant, consider a beef protein isolate or a certified vegan formula to avoid digestive discomfort.

Calorie Density and Carb-to-Protein Ratio

A mass gainer is only effective if you can drink it consistently. The best high-calorie protein powders pack 1,100 to 1,500 calories per serving without being a gallon of liquid. Pay attention to the carb-to-protein ratio. A 4:1 ratio (like BSN True-Mass) provides balanced energy for recovery, while a higher carb ratio can spike blood sugar. If you want to control your carb intake, look for a product with a lower carb count per serving.

Ingredient Quality and Third-Party Testing

Not all mass gainers are created equal. Some use cheap maltodextrin fillers and artificial flavors. Look for products with whole-food carbohydrate sources like organic tapioca or oats. Third-party certifications like NSF Certified for Sport ensure the label matches what is in the tub and that the product is free from banned substances. For those wanting maximum control, unflavored options like NAKED Mass allow you to add your own sweeteners and mix-ins.

  • Check the serving size: a 2-scoop serving is standard, but some require 4 to 6 scoops.
  • Look for added creatine monohydrate if your goal is strength gains alongside weight.
  • Verify the fat content if you are tracking macros or have dietary restrictions.
  • Read the ingredient list for artificial sweeteners if you are sensitive to them.

A mass gainer with a short, recognizable ingredient list is usually a safer bet than one with a paragraph of additives.

Protein Powders For Weight Gain Compared

The table below compares each mass gainer across key specs like protein, calories, and serving size to help you find the right fit.

ProductCalories per servingProtein per servingCarbs per servingProtein types
Dymatize Super Mass Gainer128052g245gWhey + Casein
Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass GainerOver 1,20050gOver 250gWhey Protein
NAKED Vegan Mass Gainer1,23050g248gPea, rice
NAKED Mass Natural Weight Gainer1,25050g252gWhey, casein
BSN True-Mass Weight Gainer120050gN/AWhey and casein
Mutant Mass Extreme Gainer1,10056 gN/AWhey isolate, concentrate, casein
MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer1,50060g304gN/A
Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer1,220+40g250g+All-Whey
NutraBio Extreme Mass GainerN/A53g99gWPC80 + Micellar Casein
MuscleMeds CARNIVOR Mass GainerOver 70050 g125 gBeef protein isolate

Frequently Asked Questions

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

A mass gainer is designed for weight gain and contains a much higher calorie count per serving, often over a thousand calories. That’s a big difference from standard protein powders, which provide around a hundred to a hundred fifty calories per scoop. Mass gainers include carbohydrates and fats alongside protein to create a calorie surplus.

How many calories should a weight gain protein powder have?

For effective weight gain, look for a mass gainer with a high number of calories per serving. This helps you create the daily calorie surplus needed to add weight without having to drink multiple shakes. Some products go even higher for serious hardgainers.

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

Yes, but you need to choose the right formula. Look for lactose-free options like MuscleMeds CARNIVOR Mass Gainer, which uses beef protein isolate, or plant-based options like NAKED Vegan Mass Gainer. Avoid standard whey-based mass gainers if they cause digestive issues.

How do I mix a mass gainer so it tastes good?

Most tips for using protein powder apply to mass gainers. Use a blender instead of a shaker bottle for thicker consistency. Add ice, milk (or a milk alternative), and a banana or peanut butter to improve taste and texture. Unflavored powders work best when blended with strong flavors like cocoa or berries.

Are mass gainers safe for women to use?

Yes, mass gainers are safe for women. The best protein powders for women to gain weight are the same as those for men, focus on calorie density and protein quality. There is no physiological reason a woman cannot use a mass gainer to achieve a calorie surplus for weight gain.

The Bottom Line

If you want a dense, high-calorie shake with fast and slow proteins, the Dymatize Super Mass Gainer is our best overall pick. It delivers 52g of protein and 1,280 calories per serving with added creatine, making it a complete option for serious muscle gainers.

For those on a budget or who prefer a classic formula, the Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Gainer offers over 1,200 calories and a blend of creatine, glutamine, and BCAAs. Vegans should head straight for NAKED Vegan Mass Gainer, which provides a clean, NSF-certified plant-based option.

The single most important factor is consistency. Pick a mass gainer with a calorie count and serving size you can stick with daily, and pair it with a solid training program and a diet that supports your goals.