Gaining weight isn’t just about eating more—it’s about doing so in a healthy way. Simply relying on fast food won’t cut it. For those aiming for muscle gain rather than fat, it takes careful planning and good nutrition. If you’re struggling to get the necessary nutrition, mass gainers can be a helpful solution.
Mass gainers, unlike typical protein powders, are supplements with higher calorie and protein content, specifically designed to aid in weight gain. However, not all of these high-calorie supplements offer the same nutritional benefits or value. Our team of fitness and nutrition experts rigorously assessed close to 20 mass gainers, considering factors like ingredients, effectiveness, quality, safety, customer feedback, and affordability to narrow down the options.
Here are the eight best mass gainers that made the cut.
Best mass gainer overall
Transparent Labs Mass Gainer knocks it out of the park, packing in 740 calories, 50 grams of protein, and 107 grams of carbs in each serving to support weight gain and muscle-building. It’s low in fat and has fast and slow digesting carbs for immediate and sustained energy. On top of its stellar nutrition profile, the mass gainer has creatine monohydrate to support exercise performance and muscle gains.
Our picks for the best mass gainer
- Best overall: Transparent Labs Mass Gainer
- Best high calorie: Nutricost Mass Gainer
- Best protein powder: Huel Black Edition
- Best lean: Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer
- Best vegan: Naked Nutrition Vegan Vanilla Weight Gainer
- Best cheap: Jacked Factory Authentic Mass
- Best clean: Naked Nutrition Naked Mass
- Best for beginners: Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass
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| Transparent Labs Mass Gainer | Nutricost Mass Gainer | Huel Black Edition | Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer | Naked Nutrition Vegan Vanilla Weight Gainer | Jacked Factory Authentic Mass | Naked Nutrition Naked Mass | Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass | |
| Rating | ||||||||
| Cost per serving | $5.33 | $5.00 | $3.12 | $4.50 | $5.91 | $2.40 | $6.36 | $5.25 |
| Calories | 730-750 | 1,240-1,300 | 400 | 488 | 1,230 | 750-790 | 1,250-1,360 | 1,250-1,260 |
| Protein | 51-53 g | 50 g | 39-41 g | 39 g | 50 g | 50 g | 50 g | 50 g |
| Carbs | 106-110 g | 250-258 g | 20-25 g | 55-57 g | 245 g | 122-129 g | 251-261 g | 250-253 g |
| Fat | 13-14 g | 5-8 g | 17-18 g | 10 g | 4 g | 6-7 g | 2.5-15 g | 5-6 g |
Best mass gainer overall: Transparent Labs Mass Gainer
Key product features
What you should know
In order to support muscle recovery and growth, Transparent Labs Mass Gainer is made from healthy whole foods like sweet potatoes.
- This mass gainer contains fast-digesting whey protein concentrate and tapioca maltodextrin to quickly repair muscles and replenish energy stores. (1)
- At $5.33 per serving, Transparent Labs Mass Gainer is priced higher than the average market price, but similar to many of the other supplements on our list.
- If you’re struggling to get over a muscle-building plateau, Transparent Labs Mass Gainer can provide a boost in nutrition that pushes you past the barrier so you can reach your goals.
- This mass gainer contains three grams of creatine monohydrate that may promote muscle growth after exercise. (2)
- The supplement has no added sugar, but is sweetened with stevia.
Why we like Transparent Labs Mass Gainer as best overall
Transparent Labs Mass Gainer isn’t the highest calorie supplement on our list, but it contains high-quality, natural ingredients that can help you reach your weight goals and benefit your overall well being—that’s why we chose it as our top pick.
Transparent Labs Mass Gainer offers one serving (two scoops or 187 grams) with 730 to 750 calories, 51 to 53 grams of protein, 106 to 110 grams of carbs, and 13 to 14 grams of fat, available in sweet vanilla and chocolate glazed doughnut flavors, with the chocolate variant boasting higher calorie and macronutrient content than the vanilla.
A balanced diet should provide about 15–20% of calories from protein, 45–55% of calories from carbohydrates, and 25–35% of calories from fat. (1) But when your goal is to build muscle, the balance of macros shifts a bit, with an increase in carbs and protein, providing about 25–30% of calories from protein, 55–60% from carbs, and 15–20% from fat. (1, 3)
Transparent Labs Mass Gainer provides 28% of calories from protein, 57% of calories from carbs, and 15% of calories from fat—the perfect macro balance for muscle building. Beyond its nutrition profile, Transparent Labs uses grass-fed whey protein concentrate as its source of protein, which provides all nine essential amino acids. (1)
The mass gainer also supplies three grams of creatine monohydrate to enhance exercise power, support muscle repair, and boost muscle growth. (2)
This mass gainer uses tapioca maltodextrin as a fast-digesting carb for quick energy and oat flour and sweet potato as slow-digesting carbs for lasting energy. Fast-digesting carbs replenish energy right away, sparing the use of protein, thereby benefiting your muscle-building goal. (1)
According to a study in Nutrition Today, the type of carbohydrate consumed may matter less than the overall amount, and many athletes do not consume enough carbohydrates to optimize their performance and recovery—which is one way mass gainer may help. (4)
Though low in fat, Transparent Labs Mass Gainer uses medium chain triglycerides (MCT) oil as a source of fat. Supplement makers often add MCT oil because it digests quickly, providing a boost in energy. However, MCT oil may cause gastrointestinal issues like abdominal pain and bloating in some people. (1)
Transparent Labs Mass Gainer costs $5.33 per serving, costing $1.00 more than the average price of most mass gainers. But with the creatine, you get two supplements in one, so it may be worth the extra dollar per serving.
Customers like the flavor of the supplement and have no problems mixing the powder in a shaker cup.
To learn more, visit our full Transparent Labs protein review.
What customers are saying
Customers from Nutrition Faktory give Transparent Labs Mass Gainer good reviews. They like the taste, solubility, and nutrition.
Verified buyer Hammad K writes, “As someone who works long hours and struggles to find the time to prepare healthy meals throughout the day, Transparent Labs Mass Gainer has been an absolute game-changer for me.”
Ben C., another verified buyer at Nutrition Faktory says, “Can’t go wrong here if you are looking to bulk or are a hard gainer. Mixes great with anything and can’t beat chocolate glaze. Would recommend.“
Buyers have very few negative things to say about Transparent Labs Mass Gainer. The only complaint is from verified buyer Megan C. who writes, “Strong vanilla flavor.”
Specs
| Calories | 730-750 |
| Protein | 51-53 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 106-110 grams |
| Fat | 13-14 grams |
| Cost per serving | $5.33 |
| Servings per container | 15 |
| Flavors | Chocolate glaze donut, sweet vanilla |
Best high-calorie mass gainer: Nutricost Mass Gainer
Key product features
What you should know
Nutricost Mass Gainer packs 1,240-1300 calories, 50 grams of protein, and 250-258 grams of carbs into every serving, while remaining low in fat.
- Nearly 80% of the calories in Nutricost Mass Gainer come from fast-digesting carbohydrates.
- Nutricost Mass Gainer costs $5.00 a serving, a little above average market price, but similar in price to other mass gainers on our list.
- This high-calorie mass gainer may be a good choice for athletes and bodybuilders struggling to get enough calories during periods of intense training.
- The mass gainer also provides 2.5 grams of creatine monohydrate, benefitting athletic endurance and performance. (2)
Why we like Nutricost Mass Gainer as best high calorie
In terms of high-calorie weight gainers, Nutricost Mass Gainer wins hands down with 1,240-1,300 calories per serving. In addition, it has 50 grams of protein, 250-258 grams of carbs, and 5-8 grams of fat.
Nearly 80% of the calories in Nutricost Mass Gainer come from fast-digesting maltodextrin, making it a great supplement for endurance athletes with high-carb needs. It is important for athletes to replenish energy stores quickly after intense training by using fast-absorbing carbs like maltodextrin. (1)
Athletes and bodybuilders also need enough protein to repair and build muscle. Specifically, consuming 20–40 grams of high-quality protein in each meal maximizes muscle protein synthesis. (1)
With 50 grams of whey protein concentrate in every serving, Nutricost Mass Gainer supplies the right amount to make positive gains. Plus, the 2.5 grams of added creatine monohydrate also supports your efforts, boosting endurance during workouts and supporting muscle recovery after.
The supplement also contains 2,500 milligrams of glutamine, a nonessential amino acid that stimulates protein and glycogen synthesis. However, research shows that taking supplemental glutamine may not improve these functions. (1)
We like the calories in Nutricost, but some people may have a hard time drinking the large serving size of three scoops of powder—equal to 1.5 cups—in 24 ounces of fluid. The mass gainer may keep you feeling full long after your workout.
Though low in fat, 4.5 grams (more than half of the total fat) or 23% of the daily value comes in the form of saturated fat, an unhealthy fat that can raise cholesterol. (5) The supplement is also high in sodium at 710-1,000 milligrams per serving, meeting 31-43% of the daily value.
Another downside of our high-calorie pick is that it contains artificial sweeteners. Though generally recognized as safe, some people experience unwanted side effects from these types of sweeteners like headaches and gastrointestinal distress. (6)
At $5.00 a serving, Nutricost is priced higher than the average market price for mass gainers. And with only nine servings per container, Nutricost Mass Gainer may not fit everyone’s budget.
For more information, check out our full Nutricost protein powder review.
What customers are saying
Amazon customers have mixed reviews about Nutricost Mass Gainer. Some say the high-calorie protein shake is great, while others express concerns about supplement safety.
“The chocolate peanut butter flavor is so good, very creamy and flavorful, I love it. The powder is easy to mix with milk, I do it with whole milk and blend it in a shaker. I don’t feel cramped, but little gas, I guess that’s normal. Overall, it’s a good weight gainer with good flavor, quality, and price.”
Username Jingqunliang, Amazon
An Amazon Vine Customer with the screen name “Roseville MTB Dad,” who received a free product in exchange for leaving a review, gave the mass gainer a three-star rating, saying, “This is not lean protein. Flavor is decent, quantity is not outrageous for the price, but it is a little steep. Probably better for a more dedicated bodybuilder who is intentionally looking to bulk up.”
Ahmed A. also made a purchase on Amazon and was concerned about finding plastic in the supplement, saying, “For the 4th time, I’m drinking this protein and I find this piece of plastic inside.”
Specs
| Calories | 1,240-1,300 |
| Protein | 50 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 250-258 grams |
| Fat | 5-8 grams |
| Cost per serving | $5.00 |
| Servings | 9 |
| Flavors | Cookie n cream, double chocolate, chocolate peanut butter |
Best mass gainer protein powder: Huel Black Edition
Key product features
What you should know
Huel Black Edition, a plant-based nutrition shake, offers 400 calories and 39-41 grams of protein, along with a rich blend of 27 essential vitamins and minerals.
- Our product testers said that Huel Black Edition is a great protein drink. It tastes great and is easy to mix.
- At $3.12 per serving, Huel Black Edition is priced slightly lower than average for mass gainers on the market.
- Huel Black Edition is a good option for athletes or bodybuilders following a plant-based diet who have a hard time getting the calories, protein, and nutrients they need to improve performance and physique from food alone.
- One of our testers preferred the texture of Huel Black Edition blended with ice rather than just water shaken in a cup.
Why we like Huel Black Edition as best high protein
Huel Black Edition offers an impressive nutritional profile, particularly in its protein content. With one serving providing 400 calories, alongside 39–41 grams of protein, 20–25 grams of carbohydrates, and 17–18 grams of fat, it stands out as a top choice for high-protein shakes. What makes it particularly remarkable is that 40% of its calories are derived from protein, making it an ideal option for those looking to increase their protein intake while maintaining balanced nutrition.
Huel uses a mix of pea protein and brown rice protein so you get all of the essential amino acids to maintain or build muscle. When combined, these two plant proteins have similar effects on muscle growth as whey protein. (1) And, with 40 grams per serving, the Huel Black Edition provides the right amount of protein to make muscle gains.
Huel Black Edition is lower in carbs than most mass gainers, providing only 22% of total calories, and may not make the best choice for someone who needs to quickly replenish energy stores following an intense workout. However, the carbs in the high-protein shake are slow-digesting and come with six grams of fiber.
Fat in the Huel powder is also on the higher side, providing 38% of calories. The fat comes from a mix of sunflower oil powder and MCT powder.
Another benefit of Huel Black Edition is that it’s nutritionally complete, making it a good meal replacement if needed. One serving provides 17% or more of the daily value for 27 essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. Huel Black Edition is a great choice for athletes and bodybuilders who follow a vegan diet and need extra calories, protein, and essential nutrients in a convenient, easy-to-drink form. (7)
Our product testers were impressed with the nutrition profile of Huel Black Edition. They said it’s well balanced and provides all the nutrients you need for a complete meal. Our testers also liked the taste, but had some problems dissolving the powder when mixed with only water, saying it’s better blended with ice.
One of our testers added the cookies and cream flavor to her coffee and she said it was the best. She was only able to add a quarter of the usual serving, but said it added a lot of flavor.
At $3.12 per serving, Huel Black Edition is priced a bit lower than average for mass gainers on the market. Huel intentionally keeps their supplements affordable to make good nutrition more accessible.
Huel Black Edition has no artificial ingredients and is sweetened with coconut sugar and stevia. It’s gluten-free, but the coconut may not make it a good choice if you have an allergy to tree nuts. Huel also carries out independent quality testing of ingredients, but it’s not clear if they do third-party testing of the actual supplement.
Check out our full Huel Black Edition review for more information.
What customers are saying
Most Amazon customers have positive things to say about Huel Black Edition. They like the quality, simplicity, and taste of the shake. However, some reviewers have problems with gas after drinking the shake, and many reported not receiving a scoop with their powder.
Verified Amazon customer Lizz writes, “Tastes good. Only downside was lack of scooper but not a deal breaker. Used it daily.”
Another Amazon customer named DeBee writes, “I’m drinking this for its plant-based protein, not for its flavor, so the flavor of both the chocolate and the vanilla bags is okay by me—neither has a really strong taste, but neither taste is weird or objectionable to me.”
Wanderlost is a verified Amazon customer who experienced gas after drinking the shake, saying, “Tastes all right to me… not the best but not terrible. I would have been a solid 4 stars if I didn’t suffer such profuse, painful, loud, horrible smelling gas for HOURS while on it.”
Specs
| Calories | 400 |
| Protein | 39-41 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 20-25 grams |
| Fat | 17-18 grams |
| Cost per serving | $3.12 |
| Servings | 17 |
| Flavors | Vanilla, chocolate, banana, strawberry shortcake, coffee caramel, cookies & cream, salted caramel, cinnamon roll, unflavored |
Best lean mass gainer: Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer
Key product features
What you should know
Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer has almost 500 calories per serving with 32% of calories coming from protein and 45% from carbohydrates, the perfect ratio for building lean muscle. (3)
- As a lower-calorie weight gaining supplement, Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer maximizes muscle gains and minimizes fat gains when bulking up.
- At $4.50 per serving, this mass gainer is priced higher than average for the market, but the bag contains 20 servings—more than most mass gainers.
- If you’re on the smaller side and need only a slight boost in calories to make gains, then Crazy Nutrition
- Mass Gainer could be a good choice for you.
- This mass gainer provides six grams of fiber per serving.
Why we like Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer as best lean
Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer, offering just under 500 calories per serving, sits at the lower end of the calorie spectrum among weight-gaining supplements, presenting an ideal option for individuals seeking to build muscle with minimal fat gain.
Bodybuilders go through two phases, bulking and cutting. During the bulking phase, they boost protein and calorie intake to add as much muscle mass as possible, while minimizing gains in fat during training. (8) During the cutting phase, bodybuilders modify their diet to lose the fat they gained when bulking up without losing muscle. They do this by cutting calories and following a diet that’s high in protein and carbs and low in fat. (3)
One serving of Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer has 488 calories, 40 grams of protein, 56 grams of carbs, and 10 grams of fat. So, the mass gainer provides 32% of calories from protein, 45% of calories from carbs, and 18% of calories from fat.
Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer also has six grams of fiber. It is common for mass gainers not to have fiber, which may result in constipation. The added fiber in this supplement may improve bowel habits and reduce risk of constipation. (9)
The supplement also contains digestive enzymes to help improve digestion and reduce problems like gas and bloating from the mass gainer. However, unless digestive enzymes are enterically coated and protected from stomach acid, they may lose effectiveness by the time they reach the small intestine. (10)
At $4.50 a serving, Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer is more expensive than the average market price for mass gainers, but similar to many of the recommendations on our list. We do like that you get 20 servings in each bag—most mass gainers only offer 12 to 16 servings, or less. However, we had to deduct points due to the lack of third-party testing and third-party customer reviews.
Specs
| Calories | 488 |
| Protein | 39 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 55-57 grams |
| Fat | 10 grams |
| Cost per serving | $4.50 |
| Servings | 20 |
| Flavors | Chocolate, vanilla |
Best vegan mass gainer: Naked Nutrition Vanilla Vegan Weight Gainer
Key product features
What you should know
Naked Nutrition Vanilla Vegan Weight Gainer is a plant-based mass gainer combining 50 grams of high-quality plant protein with 245 grams of carbohydrates.
- The protein in this vegan mass gainer comes from yellow pea protein and brown rice protein, creating an amino acid profile that supports muscle growth.
- The extra calories, carbs, and plant protein in this vegan mass gainer comes at a high price of $5.91 per serving, costing almost $2.00 more than the average market price for mass gainers.
- This vegan mass gainer may be a good choice for bodybuilders who follow a plant-based diet and need more calories and protein to increase muscle mass.
- Naked Nutrition Vanilla Vegan Weight Gainer has 10.3 grams of BCAAs to support muscle protein synthesis.
Why we like Naked Nutrition Vanilla Vegan Weight Gainer as best vegan
Athletes and bodybuilders who follow a vegan or plant-based diet may find it challenging to get the nutrition they need to meet fitness goals. Plant-based foods are lower in calories and more filling, making it harder to eat enough food to gain weight and build lean muscle mass. (11)
Naked Nutrition Vanilla Vegan Weight Gainer solves this problem, packing in 1,230 calories, 50 grams of vegan protein, 245 grams of carbs, and 4 grams of fat. The mass gainer has the perfect mix of carbs and protein—providing 80% of calories from carbs and 16% of calories from protein—to replenish glycogen stores and repair and build lean muscle mass.
Using a combination of pea protein and brown rice protein also improves the amino acid profile, so it more closely resembles animal proteins like whey protein. (1) The mass gainer provides 10.3 grams of branched-chain amino acids, a group of essential amino acids that play a major role in protein synthesis. (1) The vegan mass gainer also has 4.6 grams of leucine, the BCAA that drives the muscle-building process. (1)
Naked Nutrition’s vegan weight gaining supplement boasts a high-carb content that’s intended to preserve protein for muscle building. The tapioca maltodextrin and coconut sugar serve as the primary carbohydrate sources. While coconut sugar is an added sweetener, its lower glycemic index prevents sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. (12)
Naked Nutrition Vanilla Vegan Weight Gainer also has four grams of fiber and meets 17% of the daily value for calcium and 36% of the daily value for iron. All the nutrition in the mass gainer comes from five ingredients.
Though we limited our review to the vanilla flavor, Naked Nutrition’s vegan mass gainer comes in other flavors including chocolate, double chocolate, chocolate peanut butter, and unflavored.
One of the major drawbacks of the high-calorie supplement is price. At $5.91 per serving, it costs about 33% more than the average price for mass gainers. Also, the container has only 11 servings, so you may need to purchase two or more containers a month to consistently meet nutrition needs.
All of that said, they have a subscribe and save program that lowers the price by 20%.
For more information, check out our complete Naked Nutrition protein review.
What customers are saying
Amazon customers like the ingredients and nutrition in Naked Nutrition’s vegan mass gainer, but not everyone likes the taste, and some people experience stomach upset after drinking it.
“Mixes well. Not too heavy like other gainers. Tastes pretty good, but I also add fruit into it as well.”
Matt, Amazon
Shanoi M. is an Amazon customer who’s pleased with their results from the vegan mass gainer. “I’ve always had a fast metabolism and find it difficult to gain weight. Naked Mass provides 1230 calories and 50g protein per serving, which is helping me gain weight the healthy way without having to overfeed myself and put so much strain on my digestive system.”
Critics of Naked Nutrition’s mass gainer report they experience stomach upset from the supplement. Gergly S. writes, “I tried consuming it in various forms, as a shake, smoothie, added to oatmeal, but it seems to consistently cause a stomach ache for me. Not sure exactly what it is, might be due to a sensitivity to maltodextrin, since the other ingredients I consume easily in other forms.”
Specs
| Calories | 1,230 |
| Protein | 50 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 245 grams |
| Fat | 4 grams |
| Cost per serving | $5.91 |
| Servings | 11 |
| Flavors | Vanilla, chocolate, chocolate peanut butter, double chocolate, unflavored |
Best cheap mass gainer: Jacked Factory Authentic Mass
Key product features
What you should know
With whey protein concentrate and tapioca maltodextrin, Jacked Factory Authentic Mass supports weight and muscle gains without any of the high-priced ingredients.
- This mass gainer derives 27% of its calories from protein and 65% of calories from carbohydrates, providing the right balance of nutrition for muscle growth.
- At $2.40 a serving, Jacked Factory Authentic Mass is far less than the average price on the market.
- This mass gainer uses the artificial sweetener sucralose to add flavor without added sugar.
Why we like Jacked Factory Authentic Mass as best cheap
Price plays a big role in what you choose to buy, and mass gainers in particular can be quite pricey. That’s why we’ve chosen Jacked Factory Authentic Mass as the top budget-friendly option. At $2.40 per serving, it’s cheaper than the average market price of $4.00. Amazon also offers a subscribe and save program that lowers the price another 10–15%.
Despite the low price, Jacked Factory Authentic Mass doesn’t skimp on performance. One serving (two scoops or 192.4 grams) has 750-790 calories, 50 grams of protein, 122-129 grams of carbohydrates, and 6-7 grams of fat. The macro distribution is perfect for putting on healthy lean muscle while limiting fat gains when combined with a strength-training program. (1, 3)
The supplement uses tapioca maltodextrin as the carbohydrate source for fast absorption and utilization. The protein comes from whey protein concentrate, the gold standard protein for building muscle. (1) Jacked Factory Authentic Mass has no fiber, so you may need to include more fiber-rich foods in your usual diet to prevent constipation and improve digestion. (9, 13)
The mass gainer is low in fat, but more than half the fat (3.5 grams) comes from saturated fat. Athletes and bodybuilders should follow the same dietary fat recommendations as everyone else, getting most of their fat from healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats like olive oil and nuts, and less from saturated fat. (14)
The supplement also has 340-350 milligrams of sodium, meeting 15% of the daily value. If you engage in high-intensity exercise for long periods of time in the heat and sweat profusely, you may need the extra sodium to replace losses. (15) But if you’re strength-training, you may not lose enough sodium that requires replacement, and consuming too much sodium may affect muscle strength. (16)
Jacked Factory Authentic Mass serves as a valuable calcium source, meeting 30% of the daily value. Nevertheless, it may not be suitable for individuals adhering to vegan or dairy-free diets and could potentially trigger stomach discomfort in those with lactose intolerance.
It’s also sweetened with stevia and sucralose, which may make the supplement too sweet for some people. Additionally, stevia may cause a bitter aftertaste, and some people may not tolerate the sucralose and experience side effects like headaches or stomach upset. (6)
Check out our Jacked Factory protein review for more information.
What customers are saying
Amazon customers like Jacked Factory Authentic Mass for its nutrition, taste, and results. Some people find the supplement too sweet.
Lucidiana is a verified Amazon customer who’s satisfied with the results.
“I’ve bought two of these and in two months I’ve gained 10lbs as I [have] been wanting to because of my gym journey. It isn’t chalky at all; the flavor isn’t too strong so if you add other things it’s easy to mask then drink. I blend it and it dissolves better. It isn’t too thick and easier on the stomach with water than with milk. Probably the best powdered protein and calorie gainer I’ve ever had!!”
Lucidiana, Amazon
Kevin A. is another Amazon customer who purchased Jacked Factory Authentic Mass and writes, “Makes getting my calories in so easy. I’ve gained 8 pounds in 2 weeks with this. Only downside is there’s no fiber, so make sure you’re getting plenty of fiber elsewhere.”
Amazon customer Nick liked the ingredients but had some tolerance issues, and warned against using a blender to make the supplement. “Has like 5 ingredients so that is good. Doesn’t sit well after/while drinking. Kinda get bubble guts. Could be just me. Flavor is 9/10 if you use milk. Don’t use a blender, it gets foamy! A shaker cup is the best or spoon second choice.”
Specs
| Calories | 750-790 |
| Protein | 50 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 122-129 grams |
| Fat | 6-7 grams |
| Cost per serving | $2.40 |
| Servings | 15 |
| Flavors | Vanilla, cookies & cream |
Best clean mass gainer: Naked Nutrition Naked Mass
Key product features
What you should know
Naked Nutrition Naked Mass comes in five flavors, all with only six ingredients or less. This clean mass gainer provides 1,250 to 1,360 calories per serving, depending on flavor choice.
- Our product testers recommend using a blender to make this mass gainer and adding milk or other ingredients to improve flavor and texture.
- At $6.36 per serving, Naked Nutrition Naked Mass is almost 50% more than the average price for mass gainer supplements and the most expensive option on our list.
- Naked Nutrition Naked Mass is a good option for hard-gainers who want a clean and simple high-calorie supplement to get the calorie surplus they need to gain weight.
- This mass gainer contains a mix of whey protein concentrate and micellar casein to support immediate and sustained muscle recovery.
Why we like Naked Nutrition Naked Mass as best clean
With its short ingredient list, Naked Nutrition Naked Mass is the clear winner for best clean mass gainer. The high-calorie supplement contains organic tapioca maltodextrin, whey protein concentrate and micellar casein blend, organic coconut sugar, and an ingredient for each of the individual five flavors (cacao, vanilla, etc).
This clean and high-protein powder is free of artificial flavors, colors, and sweeteners as well. One serving (four scoops or 321-342 grams) provides 1,250–1,360 calories, 50 grams of protein, 251–261 grams of carbohydrates, and 2.5–15 grams of fat.
With nearly 80% of calories from carbs, Naked Nutrition’s mass gainer may be a good choice for endurance athletes with high-carb needs or bodybuilders trying to bulk up. The easy-to-digest carbs quickly replenishes glycogen stores, allowing all the protein to go to the muscle.
The clean ingredients also makes the mass gainer a good choice for people with high-calorie needs due to performance demands or a health condition, who struggle to maintain or gain weight.
We appreciate the protein blend in this mass gainer. It contains whey protein concentrate and micellar casein, two primary milk proteins. (17) Whey protein gets absorbed rapidly, helping to repair and build muscles right after your workout. (1) On the other hand, casein is digested more slowly, aiding in recovery even after your workout session is over. (18)
Naked Nutrition Naked Mass is high in fiber, providing 12-20 grams per serving for the chocolate flavors, meeting more than 70% of the daily value. It’s also high in calcium, iron, and potassium. However, Naked Nutrition Naked Mass isn’t suitable for people with a milk allergy, and its high fiber content may cause gas and bloating.
Our testers didn’t particularly like the taste and texture of Naked Nutrition’s weight-gaining supplement. They described the taste as tolerable, but said they would have a hard time drinking it on a regular basis. Solubility was also a problem. Our testers said the powder separates from the liquid soon after shaking and gets very foamy. They also found the texture too gritty and commented that it gets very thick in a blender.
At $6.36 per serving, the clean mass gainer is priced more than $2.00 above the standard price per serving for mass gainers. Though a quality supplement with the right amount of calories and macros, given the reviews from our product testers, it may not make a good value if you can’t tolerate the taste.
To learn more about similar products, visit our comprehensive Naked Nutrition protein review or our full guide on the best clean protein powders.
What customers are saying
Nearly 3,000 Amazon customers have reviewed Naked Nutrition Naked Mass. Most customers liked the nutrition and results from the mass gainer, but some had problems with the taste, texture, and price.
“This is definitely a worthy weight gainer indeed. The scoop is a bit big, but it’s pretty good with me. The quality taste is chalky, but it’s straightforward clean. The only cons I can say about this product is that it is very expensive, it doesn’t really mix well with water, and it contains milk.”
Carlos E., Amazon
Will is another Amazon customer who writes, “After drinking half a serving nightly for only 2 weeks, I could barely get my jeans on when my wife and I did dinner out one night!!!”
MrBoomTastic wrote a critical review about its taste and texture, saying, “I had high hopes for this product but the taste is absolutely terrible and watered down. Mixing doesn’t get rid of the chunks.”
Specs
| Calories | 1,250-1,360 |
| Protein | 50 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 251-261 grams |
| Fat | 2.5-15 grams |
| Cost per serving | $6.36 |
| Servings | 11 |
| Flavors | Chocolate, double chocolate, vanilla, chocolate peanut butter, chocolate, unflavored |
Best mass gainer for beginners: Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass
Key product features
What you should know
Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass is packed with enough calories, carbs, and protein to help you gain weight or bulk up.
- Our product testers found the supplement easy to mix, but they had to drink it fast before the powder separated from the water.
- At $5.25 per serving for the 12-pound container, Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass is priced above average, and cost goes up to $7.75 per serving with the 3-pound container.
- Optimum Nutrition is known for making great-tasting protein supplements, and this mass gainer may be a great choice for people new to bodybuilding who are looking for an effective weight-gaining supplement that’s easy to drink.
- This mass gainer has three grams of creatine monohydrate to support muscle gains.
Why we like Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass as best for beginners
We selected Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass as the best mass gainer for beginners because of its nutrition profile and taste. One serving (two scoops or 340 grams) has 1,250–1,260 calories, 50 grams of protein, 250–253 grams of carbs, and six grams of fat.
This mass gainer packs in calories with a good balance of carbs and protein, with 80% of its calories coming from carbs and 16% of calories coming from protein. Its carbs come from maltodextrin and its protein comes from whey protein concentrate, both fast-absorbing ingredients that support post-workout muscle repair and recovery.
Like some of the other mass gainers on our list, Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass is high in saturated fat, meeting 15-18% of the daily value. It also contains 680-820 milligrams of sodium, meeting 28-36% of the daily value. For balanced nutrition while using this supplement, choose lean proteins and healthy fats at meal times, and try not to add extra salt to food.
Another reason we think Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass is great for beginners is because it has 3-5 grams of creatine monohydrate. Not only do you get the benefits from added creatine, you may also opt to eliminate your creatine supplement, saving you money.
The mass gainer also has added vitamins and minerals for extra nutrition support, which may also replace your multivitamin. If you do take other supplements with added vitamins and minerals, check the label to make sure you’re not getting excessive amounts of any one nutrient. You should also talk to your doctor or consult with a registered dietitian for individualized guidance.
One of the drawbacks of Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass is that it contains artificial flavors and artificial sweeteners. Though generally recognized as safe, some people may experience side effects from these added ingredients like headaches or gastrointestinal distress. (6, 19)
At $5.25 per serving, Serious Mass costs about 25% more than the average mass gainer, at least for the 12-pound bag, the largest size with 16 servings. Smaller-sized bags cost more per serving, so you can save money by buying in bulk. The smaller 3-pound bag has only four servings, and the 6-pound bag has eight servings.
Our product testers had mixed reviews for Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass. One tester said the shake was creamy, but they had to drink it fast because of problems with solubility that caused all the creaminess to rise to the top, making the rest too watery.
Another tester had problems with gas in the beginning, but their tolerance improved over time. You may avoid stomach upset starting out with a half dose and slowly working your way up to the full dose over one to two weeks.
Visit our full Optimum Nutrition protein review to learn more.
What customers are saying
Amazon customers like the quality of Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass and its high calorie content for weight gain. However, some customers say the portion size is very large and the consistency too thick.
Verified Amazon customer PrinceMar writes, “Best protein powder I’ve ever had, better than those other protein powders, you can really taste the flavor in these.”
Ryan is another verified Amazon customer who had good results for his goals,
“I exercise pretty regularly and have gained 20lbs (I’m 6ft tall—went from 160-180). It’s decreased my appetite throughout the day and I’ve lost a considerable amount of body fat.”
Ryan, Amazon
Brian R. was disappointed with the serving size and taste. “Instructions state to use 2 scoops which are 5x larger than the other brands. Only a single scoop fit inside my glass, ONE SCOOP!!! Tastes disgusting and practically had to chew it.”
Specs
| Calories | 1250-1260 |
| Protein | 50 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 250-253 grams |
| Fat | 5-6 grams |
| Cost per serving | $5.25 (12-pound bag) |
| Servings | 16 |
| Flavors | Vanilla, banana, chocolate, chocolate peanut butter, strawberry |
How we test supplements
Our goal is to provide all the information you need to choose a mass gainer that fits your health goals and lifestyle. We tested, researched, and consulted with experts to create our list of recommendations and provide honest and impartial feedback. We only recommend supplements that meet our intensive and thorough standards for quality and efficacy, so only a small number of the supplements we test make our list.
Find out more about our supplements testing methodology and each factor we look at.
Efficacy—40%
Efficacy means the effectiveness of the product in achieving its claims and the evidence that supports those claims. Each supplement can help consumers achieve specific health benefits. We examine whether a supplement delivers on its promised benefits.
Here’s what we look for:
- Clinical evidence
- Calories per serving
- Dose
- Mixability
Safety and side effects—35%
When choosing a supplement, you have to assess health risks, adverse effects, and safety profiles. We ensure the safety of these products through first-hand testing. To do this, we evaluate:
- Reported side effects
- Current research
- Third-party testing
- Manufacturer accreditation
- Artificial sweeteners
- Added ingredients like caffeine
Value—20%
We know that value doesn’t just mean price—it also includes the quality you get for the price. Our team factors in a cost analysis to determine the true worth of a supplement in relation to its price. We then identify products that offer a solid return on investment:
Our factors in this rating include:
- Price per serving
- Quality standards
- Heavy metal testing
Customer experience—5%
A customer’s experience with a company directly impacts satisfaction, loyalty, and the likelihood of repeat purchases. That’s why our team includes it in our testing process.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Ease of purchase
- Shipping and returns
- Customer support
- Subscription service
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
- Multiple forms
How to choose the best mass gainer for you
Mass gainers are a convenient way to increase calories and protein to gain weight, build muscle, or bulk up. Things to consider when choosing the best mass gainer for you include:
Nutrition profile
The nutrition profiles of mass gainers differ. While they tend to have a mix of protein, carbs, and fat, the ratio varies. In general, most mass gainers are high in protein and carbs and low in fat, with calories ranging from 500 to 1,500 a serving and 25 grams or more of protein.
The nutrition profile of a mass gainer should match your needs and goals, providing the right amount of calories, protein, and carbs to gain weight, maintain muscle, or bulk up. (1)
Some mass gainers have added essential vitamins and minerals. We don’t recommend mass gainers as meal replacements, but the extra nutrients can boost nutrient intake to better meet your needs. (1)
Ingredients
Read the ingredients list of mass gainers and look for supplements with a high-quality protein from sources like whey, casein, or pea. (1) Some mass gainers may have protein blends to create a more complete amino acid profile. Animal and plant-based proteins in mass gainers provide the nutrition you need to reach your goals, and the best one for you depends on your nutrition needs and preferences.
You also want to take a look at the carbohydrate source. Maltodextrin is the most common source of carbs in mass gainers, quickly replenishing energy stores. (1) Some mass gainers may have slower digesting carbs, like oat fiber or sweet potato.
Mass gainers may also contain other supplements like creatine monohydrate, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), or medium-chain triglycerides (MCT).
Choose a mass gainer that has the ingredients that fit your needs, goals, and preferences, and without a lot of other ingredients like fillers or artificial additives.
Third-party testing
The FDA has established Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) that supplement makers must follow to ensure their product contains the ingredients listed on the label in the stated amounts. (20) The FDA doesn’t test supplements for safety, it’s up to the manufacturer to ensure their product is safe for consumers.
Independent organizations offer quality testing of supplements, checking manufacturing practices, and evaluating supplements for ingredients and contaminants. Third-party testing doesn’t guarantee supplement safety, but it does add an extra layer of protection for the consumer.
When looking for the best mass gainer for you, select one with third-party testing. The supplement may display the information on the label or on the website.
Flavor
Choose a mass gainer you like, one that you can easily drink every day. The purpose of the supplement is to provide the extra calories and protein you need to gain weight or build muscle. Though not meant to replace whole foods, you only gain the benefits if you drink the shake.
Mixability is another factor you may want to consider when choosing your mass gainer. Some mass gainers are easy to mix in a shaker cup, while others may require a blender.
Cost
The price of mass gainers varies, ranging from $2 to $6 or more per serving. Cost is a major driver of purchasing decisions. However, the cheapest mass gainer may not make the best choice if you don’t like the taste or texture.
Select a mass gainer that fits your budget, meets your goals, and tastes great.
Benefits of mass gainers
Mass gainers are a fast and convenient way to consume a large amount of calories with the right amount of protein and carbs when you want to gain weight or increase muscle mass.
Consuming an adequate amount of calories to meet energy needs is crucial when trying to gain weight or build muscle. You need a surplus of energy. How much depends on many factors, including genetics, body composition, and activity level, but you may need anywhere from 350 to 1,000 extra calories a day. (21)
You also need enough protein to maximize muscle gains. Again, individual protein needs vary, but getting 20–40 grams of high-quality protein at regular intervals is ideal for people regularly strength-training to add lean body mass. (1)
When you can’t get the nutrition you need from food alone—elite athletes at the height of their season may need more than 10,000 calories a day—mass gainers step in to help out.
Mass gainers require little effort to prepare, are easy to consume, and are not overly filling. The high-calorie supplements may also save time and money, replacing the need to buy and prepare additional meals and snacks to meet increased caloric demands.
You can drink mass gainers anytime you need refueling, but the carbs and protein make it a great post-workout drink.
FAQs
When should I take a mass gainer?
You should take a mass gainer at the time of day that works best for you. You can choose to drink the shake with breakfast, after your workout, or even in between meals. However, drinking a mass gainer with casein before bed may boost muscle protein synthesis while you sleep. (18)
Are there any healthy mass gainers?
A healthy mass gainer is one that provides the nutrition you need to make the gains you want. Mass gainers are safe and effective for most people. Supplements should contain the right amount of calories and macros without a lot of added sugars or artificial ingredients.
Do mass gainers really work?
If your mass gainers provide the extra calories and protein you need to achieve your goals, then they work. However, the supplement can’t build muscle for you and works best when combined with resistance training and a balanced whole-food eating plan. You may also gain some fat with the calorie surplus.
What are the side effects of mass gainers?
Unwanted fat gain and gastrointestinal discomfort are some of the most common side effects of mass gainers. If you don’t combine some form of exercise with your mass gainer, some of the extra calories may turn into body fat. Mass gainers are a concentrated source of nutrition, and some people may experience abdominal pain, gas, or bloating.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Our experts
Rob Wildman, Ph.D., RD, LD, CISSN, FISSN
Dr. Robert Wildman (“Dr. Rob”) is a globally renowned exercise, fitness, and nutrition expert who speaks around the world on exercise and sport nutrition, and continues to work with professional and elite athletes to achieve their highest level of performance as well as health and fitness. Rob received his Ph.D. from The Ohio State University, earned his MS from Florida State University, and earned his BS from the University of Pittsburgh. He is also a registered and licensed dietitian.
Joana Neziri, M.S., NASM CPT
Joana is a writer, editor, and content strategist focusing on nutrition, fitness, and all things health. After earning a master’s degree in business from the University of North Florida, she began a career in research and digital marketing.
Jessica Coulon
Jessica Coulon is a contributing editor and writer for Fortune Recommends™ who specializes in fitness, health, nutrition, and science content. Previously, she was an editor for Popular Mechanics and Bicycling, where she covered pro cycling news, wrote how-to guides, and tested all the latest and greatest bike gear. She was also a regular shoe tester and contributor for Runner’s World. You can often find her skiing or riding her mountain bike, and racing with the F1RE female enduro team.
Kelly Uhler
Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Jill Corleone
Registered Dietitian and Health Writer
About Author
Jill’s life has centered around nutrition and fitness for more than two decades. After earning her bachelor of science in nutrition at New York University in Manhattan, Jill went on to complete her internship at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in Newark.
She spent the early part of her career working as a clinical dietitian with a focus on pediatric nutrition. She then transitioned into management. Jill began her career as a freelance writer in 2007 while working as a clinical nutrition manager in Florida. She became a full-time writer in 2010 after the birth of her first child.
Jill has written for numerous publications, including Verywellfit, Diabetes Self-Management, Huffington Post, Livestrong.com, and SFGate.