10 Best Supplements For Gaining Muscle in 2026
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The Dymatize Super Mass Gainer Protein Powder wins as the best overall because it packs 52g of protein, 1,280 calories, and 1g of creatine per serving for serious mass gain. For a cleaner option, the Transparent Labs Mass Gainer uses grass-fed whey and no artificial additives. The NAKED Mass Natural Weight Gainer is our top budget pick with just three ingredients.
The hardest part of gaining muscle is eating enough. You train hard, but if your calorie surplus isn’t there, the scale won’t move. Mass gainers solve that by packing calories, protein, and carbs into one shake, removing the guesswork from your daily intake.
We built this guide by analyzing manufacturer specs, ingredient profiles, and common owner feedback patterns. We looked at protein quality, calorie density, carb-to-protein ratios, and how each formula fits different goals. This research-led approach helps you match a gainer to your specific needs without hype.
Top 10 Supplements For Gaining Muscle in the Market
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The Best Supplements For Gaining Muscle, Reviewed
Dymatize Super Mass Gainer Protein Powder
What We Like
- 52g protein supports muscle repair and growth
- 1,280 calories per serving for mass gain
- Blend of whey and casein for sustained protein delivery
- Includes 1g creatine and 14 vitamins and minerals
Trade-offs
- Only 8 servings per container means frequent reordering
- 1280 calories per serving is excessive for many goals.
Each serving delivers 1,280 calories and 52 grams of protein, making it a dense option for anyone who needs a high-calorie shake to support muscle growth. The blend of fast-digesting whey and slow-digesting casein provides sustained protein delivery over hours, which aids recovery after intense training. It also includes 1 gram of creatine and 14 essential vitamins and minerals, so you get extra nutrients alongside the calories. That combination of high protein, sustained release, and added nutrients makes it a straightforward choice for hard gainers who want results without juggling multiple supplements.
The 245 grams of carbs per serving is a heavy load, so you’ll need to plan your meals around it if you’re sensitive to high-carb intake. Dymatize Super Mass Gainer packs 1,280 calories and 52 grams of protein from a blend of whey and casein, which means your body gets both fast and slow protein delivery for muscle repair. With only 8 servings in the container, you’ll be reordering frequently if you use it daily.
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Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Weight Gainer
What We Like
- Over 1,200 calories per serving
- 50g premium protein blend for muscle repair
- Includes creatine, glutamine, and BCAAs
Trade-offs
- Single 2-pound tub is small for daily use
- Over 250g carbs per serving unsuitable for low-carb or lean bulk diets
The carb load, over 250 grams per serving, makes this a poor fit for anyone aiming for a lean bulk or watching their carbohydrate intake. Compared to Dymatize Super Mass Gainer, which provides 245 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this product sits firmly on the high-carb end of the spectrum for pure energy delivery. If your goal is straightforward weight gain and carb density isn’t a concern, this delivers exactly what it promises.
Mutant Mass Extreme Gainer
What We Like
- Whole-food ingredients like barley, oats, and avocado
- 56 g protein with whey isolate, concentrate, and casein
- 1,100 calories per serving for weight gain
- 12.2 g BCAAs and 26.1 g EAAs
Trade-offs
- Only 16 servings per pouch means frequent repurchasing
- Single flavor option limits variety
A single serving delivers 1,100 calories and 56 grams of protein from a blend that includes whey isolate, concentrate, and casein, so you get fast and slow-release protein in one shake. What sets this gainer apart is the ingredient list: barley, sweet potato, rolled oats, avocado, coconut oil, flaxseed, pumpkin seed, and sunflower oil. That means you’re getting calories from recognizable food sources rather than just maltodextrin and sugar, which makes it a smart pick if you want to gain weight without feeling like you’re drinking a dessert.
The trade-off is that you only get 16 servings per pouch. The triple chocolate flavor is the only option available. For someone who values whole-food ingredients and is okay with a smaller number of servings per container, this is a calorie-dense option.
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Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pro Gainer
What We Like
- 60g protein per serving
- 650 calories per serving
- Less than 8g sugar per serving
- Includes vitamins and minerals
Trade-offs
- 10.2 lb tub is bulky for travel
- Not suitable for low-carb or keto diets
Sixty grams of protein per serving is the kind of number that makes you double-check the label. That’s a serious protein punch in a single shake, which means you can hit your daily target without gulping down three separate servings. For anyone who struggles to eat enough whole food to support muscle growth, this mass gainer does the heavy lifting. It delivers 650 calories and over 80 grams of carbs to refuel after a hard session, all while keeping sugar under 8 grams. The added vitamins and minerals round out the nutrition.
At 650 calories per serving, this is a lot for a single drink. If you’re a smaller athlete or someone who naturally fills up fast, that shake might feel more like a meal than a supplement. Compared to the Dymatize Super Mass Gainer, which packs 1,280 calories per serving, the Gold Standard Pro Gainer is actually more moderate, but it’s still a heavy dose. The 10.2-pound tub also isn’t something you’ll toss in a gym bag. This one works best when you plan your calories around it, not when you’re trying to sip something light between meals.
MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer
What We Like
- 60g protein per serving
- 1,500 calories for mass gain
- HPLC-tested creatine monohydrate included
Trade-offs
- 6-scoop serving size is large
- Requires mixing with skim milk for full specs
A single serving delivers 60 grams of protein and 1,500 calories when mixed with skim milk, making this one of the densest mass gainers you can scoop. The formula includes HPLC-tested creatine monohydrate, which studies show helps replenish ATP stores for enhanced performance and strength. This shake is designed for those who want a high-calorie, high-protein option in one serving.
Those numbers come from a six-scoop serving, which means a single shake is a serious commitment in both volume and digestion. If you have a smaller stomach or prefer to spread your calories across multiple meals, a product with a smaller serving size might be more manageable. But if your priority is maximizing protein, calories, and creatine in one go, this MuscleTech formula delivers exactly that.
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Transparent Labs Mass Gainer
What We Like
- 53g grass-fed whey for complete amino acids
- 110g+ slow-digesting carbs for sustained energy
- 3g clinically dosed creatine monohydrate included
- No artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives
Trade-offs
- 15 servings per container means frequent reordering
- Contains creatine, which not all mass gainer users want
This mass gainer delivers 770 calories per serving from oat flour, organic tapioca maltodextrin, and sweet potato powder, with 53 grams of grass-fed whey protein for a complete amino acid profile and 110 grams of complex carbohydrates for steady energy. It also includes 3 grams of creatine monohydrate per serving. The formula is free from artificial sweeteners, colors, and preservatives, and it is third-party tested with a Certificate of Analysis available for purity assurance.
At 770 calories per serving, this is a moderate-calorie option compared to some other gainers in the guide, such as Dymatize Super Mass Gainer at 1,280 calories. The 15-serving container means you will need to reorder more frequently than larger tubs. However, if you want a mass gainer with no artificial additives and third-party testing, this product offers a straightforward ingredient list.
BSN True-Mass Weight Gainer
What We Like
- 2:1 carb-to-protein ratio for balanced gains
- MCT fats for added nutritional value
- BSN flavor technology for milkshake-like taste
Trade-offs
- Only 16 servings per container
- Contains multiple dairy proteins, not lactose-free
With a 2:1 carb-to-protein ratio and 690 calories per serving, this weight gainer provides a steady energy source for mass building without the sugar spike of some bulkier formulas. The 50 grams of protein come from a blend of whey protein concentrate, calcium caseinate, milk protein isolate, whey protein isolate, micellar casein, hydrolyzed whey protein, and egg whites. That gives you both fast and slow-digesting sources. That makes it a smart fit if you want to add size gradually while keeping your energy levels even through the afternoon.
At 690 calories per serving, this is lighter than extreme gainers like Dymatize Super Mass Gainer’s 1,280 calories, so you will need two shakes a day if you are trying to pack on serious mass quickly. But for anyone who prefers a manageable shake that tastes genuinely good, thanks to BSN’s flavor tech, and still delivers a solid protein punch, this balanced approach feels like a sustainable choice for the long haul.
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Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer
What We Like
- 250g+ carbohydrates per serving
- Enhanced with pure creatine monohydrate
Trade-offs
- Requires weight training and high-calorie diet
- Only 8 servings per container
The 6:1 carb-to-protein ratio leans heavily on carbohydrates, which is exactly what you want when your goal is packing on mass quickly and your appetite can handle the volume. It’s built for the lifter who has tried eating more whole food but still can’t tip the scale, or who wants a reliable way to top off daily energy after a hard workout.
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NAKED Mass Natural Weight Gainer
What We Like
- Only three clean ingredients listed
- NSF Certified for purity and safety
- 50g protein with fast and slow release
- Gluten free, soy free, no artificial sweeteners
Trade-offs
- Unflavored, so taste depends on mix-ins
- 8 lb tub is bulky for small kitchens
A single serving delivers 1,250 calories, 50 grams of protein, and 252 grams of carbs, which makes it a straightforward tool for anyone who struggles to pack on mass without eating constantly. The formula keeps things simple with just three ingredients, whey, casein, and organic tapioca maltodextrin, so you know exactly what you’re putting in your body. It’s NSF Certified, meaning the label matches what’s inside, and the blend of fast-release whey plus slow-digesting casein keeps your muscles fed over a longer window. This is a great fit for hard gainers who want a clean, no-nonsense way to add serious calories without artificial additives or fillers.
Unflavored powder means you’ll need to get creative with shakes or recipes to make it taste good. The 252 grams of carbs per scoop might feel heavy if you’re not burning through that energy. Compared to something like Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass, which includes added creatine and glutamine, Naked Mass keeps its ingredient list deliberately short and transparent. If you prefer controlling your own flavor and don’t mind a higher carb load, this is a budget-friendly way to hit big calorie goals without guessing what’s in your tub.
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Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer Protein Powder
What We Like
- Naturally flavored, no artificial colors
- Sweetened with stevia, no added sugars
- Multi-source carbs from quinoa and oats
- Instantized for easy mixing
Trade-offs
- Only 30g protein per 550-calorie serving
- Sweetened with stevia, which some dislike.
With 550 calories and 30 grams of protein per serving, this lean gainer is built for steady, clean muscle growth without the sugar crash. The multi-source carb blend includes quinoa, blueberry, ginger root, rice bran, and oat fiber. Natural stevia sweetness keeps things clean. It’s a great fit if you want quality calories that support recovery without artificial junk or fillers, making it a smart choice for anyone focused on lean gains rather than just bulking up fast.
With 97 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this is a carb-forward formula, great if you need sustained energy, but a lot if you’re watching your carb intake or want a higher protein-to-calorie ratio. Dymatize Super Mass Gainer, by contrast, delivers 52 grams of protein per serving, so this one leans heavier on carbs for fuel. Best for someone who wants a clean, naturally flavored lean gainer with quality calories. Not ideal for low-carb diets or anyone prioritizing protein over carbs.
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How We Evaluated Supplements For Gaining Muscle
We started by studying the protein blends, carbohydrate sources, and calorie counts in each formula. Manufacturer documentation told us the exact protein type (whey isolate, concentrate, casein), the carb-to-protein ratio, and whether creatine or BCAAs were added. This gave us a clear picture of what each product actually delivers per scoop.
The four criteria that mattered most were protein quality and quantity per serving, total calorie density, the carb-to-protein ratio, and ingredient transparency. A gainer with 50g of protein from whey and casein supports muscle repair longer than one with only whey. The calorie count determines how many shakes you need to hit your surplus. The ratio tells you whether the product leans heavy on carbs or protein. And clean labels matter for anyone avoiding artificial sweeteners or fillers.
An evaluation based on research has honest limits. We relied on published specs, expert round-ups, and patterns in owner feedback. For a deeper look at different approaches, check our guide to muscle mass supplements and our list of protein supplements for more focused options.
What To Look For In Supplements For Gaining Muscle
Choosing a mass gainer comes down to matching the calorie and protein numbers to your body weight and training volume. The right pick makes hitting a surplus feel easy.
Pick a gainer with 40-60g protein per serving, a carb-to-protein ratio that matches your daily macros, and an ingredient list you recognize. Avoid excessive sugar if you want slow-digesting energy.
Protein Type and Quantity
The protein source determines how your body uses the shake. Whey isolate digests fast, making it great right after a workout. Casein digests slowly, feeding your muscles for hours. A blend of both, like the whey-and-casein mix in Dymatize Super Mass Gainer, gives you fast repair and sustained release. Look for at least 50g of protein per serving if you are a hard gainer, or 30-40g if you want a leaner option like the Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer.
Calorie Density and Carb-to-Protein Ratio
A mass gainer’s calorie count tells you how many servings you need to hit your surplus. High-calorie options like Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Gainer (1,200+ calories) work for extreme hard gainers. Lower-calorie options like BSN True-Mass Weight Gainer (690 calories) fit a more moderate bulk. The carb-to-protein ratio matters too. A 2:1 ratio suits most people, while a carb-heavy formula like Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer (250g+ carbs) fuels high-volume training. For more on matching ratios to your goals, see our guide to building muscle supplements.
Ingredient Quality and Additives
Clean labels mean fewer fillers and artificial ingredients. The NAKED Mass Natural Weight Gainer uses just three ingredients and carries NSF certification. Transparent Labs Mass Gainer skips artificial sweeteners entirely. Some gainers add creatine monohydrate, which supports strength gains. MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer includes HPLC-tested creatine. If you want to stack your own, check our recommendations for supplement stacks. Watch for excessive sugar; some carb-heavy formulas use maltodextrin, which spikes blood sugar.
- Count the servings per container, an 8-serving tub means frequent reordering.
- Check if the protein source is grass-fed or whey isolate for higher quality.
- Look for third-party certification like NSF if purity matters to you.
- Taste matters for daily use; unflavored powders like NAKED Mass need mix-ins.
- Consider your carb tolerance, high-carb gainers can cause bloating.
A mass gainer should feel like a tool, not a chore. If you dread drinking it, you won’t stick with it.
Supplements For Gaining Muscle Compared
The table below compares protein content, calories, and key features across our top 10 mass gainers so you can see the differences at a glance.
| Product | Calories per serving | Protein per serving | Carbs per serving | Key additions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dymatize Super Mass Gainer Protein Powder | 1280 | 52g | 245g | 1g Creatine, 10.7g BCAAs |
| Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Weight Gainer | 1,200+ | 50g | 250g+ | Creatine, Glutamine, BCAAs, Vitamins & Minerals |
| Mutant Mass Extreme Gainer | 1,100 | 56 g | N/A | 12.2 g BCAAs, Whole-food ingredients |
| Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pro Gainer | 650 | 60g | 80g+ | Vitamins & Minerals |
| MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer | 1,500 | 60g | 304g | Creatine Monohydrate |
| Transparent Labs Mass Gainer | 770 | 53 g | 110 g+ | 3 g Creatine Monohydrate |
| BSN True-Mass Weight Gainer | 690 | 50g | N/A | Whey, casein, egg whites |
| Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer | 1,220+ | 40g | 250g+ | Pure monohydrate creatine |
| NAKED Mass Natural Weight Gainer | 1,250 | 50g | 252g | 11.5g BCAAs |
| Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer Protein Powder | 550 | 30g | 97g | Stevia leaf extract |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do mass gainers differ from regular protein powders?
Mass gainers pack more calories per serving than standard protein powders. A typical whey protein shake delivers around 100 to 150 calories with 25g of protein. Mass gainers like Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Gainer provide over 1,200 calories with 50g of protein, plus carbs and fats designed to create a calorie surplus. Use a mass gainer when you struggle to eat enough whole food to gain weight.
Can I use a mass gainer without working out?
You can, but you will likely gain more fat than muscle. Mass gainers are designed to support muscle growth alongside resistance training. The extra calories without exercise simply add body fat. If you are not training consistently, a lower-calorie protein supplement makes more sense. For pre-workout energy, see our list of pre-workout supplements.
How many servings of mass gainer should I take per day?
Start with one serving per day, taken either post-workout or between meals. Monitor your weight gain over two weeks. If the scale is not moving, add a half serving. If you gain more than one to two pounds per week, cut back. Most hard gainers find one serving of a high-calorie gainer like Dymatize Super Mass Gainer sufficient to tip them into a surplus.
Are mass gainers safe for people with lactose intolerance?
It depends on the formula. Many mass gainers use whey and casein, both dairy proteins that contain lactose. The BSN True-Mass Weight Gainer contains multiple dairy proteins and is not lactose-free. Look for a gainer that uses whey isolate, which has very little lactose, or a plant-based option. The NAKED Mass Natural Weight Gainer avoids common allergens but still uses dairy.
What is the difference between a lean gainer and a mass gainer?
A lean gainer like Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer delivers fewer calories per serving (around 550) with a higher protein-to-carb ratio. It is designed for a slow, controlled bulk with less fat gain. A mass gainer like MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer pushes 1,500 calories per serving, prioritizing rapid weight gain. Choose a lean gainer if you want to add muscle without much body fat, and a mass gainer if you struggle to eat enough.
The Bottom Line
The Dymatize Super Mass Gainer Protein Powder is the best overall choice for anyone who needs a reliable, high-calorie shake to support serious muscle growth. With 52g of protein, 1,280 calories, and added creatine, it covers the bases for hard gainers who want results without overthinking their nutrition.
If you prefer a cleaner approach, the Transparent Labs Mass Gainer uses grass-fed whey and no artificial additives. For budget shoppers, the NAKED Mass Natural Weight Gainer delivers 50g of protein with just three ingredients and NSF certification. Each pick serves a different path to the same destination.
The single most important factor is consistency. A mass gainer only works if you drink it every day and pair it with progressive overload in the gym. Pick the one that fits your macros and your taste, then stick with it. For more options tailored to your goals, explore our guide to lean muscle supplements.



