If you’re on a mission to pack on muscle, you already know that eating thousands of calories from whole foods alone can be a daunting task.
Preparing countless meals, calculating macros, and ensuring you get enough protein and carbs is a full-time job in itself.
Just like the best protein powders, a mass gainer supplement is designed to simplify this process — helping you boost your daily caloric intake without spending endless hours in the kitchen.
However, with the countless mass gainer options available today, finding the right one for your specific needs can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack.
Athletes have different goals, dietary preferences, and restrictions, which means not all mass gainers are created equal. That’s where we come in.
We’ve narrowed down the list to the absolute best products for a variety of athletes, whether you’re looking to gain size, support recovery, or meet specific dietary requirements.
Read on to find out which mass gainers cut 2024 and discover the perfect supplement to fuel your muscle-building journey!
Best Overall Mass Gainer: Transparent Labs Mass Gainer
When it comes to finding a mass gainer that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity, effectiveness, and taste, the Transparent Labs Mass Gainer stands out from the crowd.
This product offers an impressive 750 calories per serving, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to add serious mass without compromising on ingredient quality.
Specs:
- Calories per Serving: 750 calories
- Protein Source: Grass-fed whey
- Macros per Serving: 14 grams fat, 110 grams carbs, 53 grams protein
- Flavors: Chocolate Glaze Donut, Sweet Vanilla
- Price per Serving: $5.33
Pros
- Delivers 750 calories per serving with well-balanced macros.
- Naturally sweetened and flavored, providing a clean formula.
- Includes 6 grams of fiber per serving, accounting for 21% of your daily value.
Cons
- Limited in added vitamins and minerals.
- Higher sodium (580 mg) and saturated fat (12 g) content may not be ideal for everyone.
- Slightly more expensive compared to other mass gainers.
Why We Chose It:
To claim the top spot, we needed a product that excels in simplicity, effectiveness, and taste — three qualities that are surprisingly hard to find together in a mass gainer.
Transparent Labs Mass Gainer delivers on all counts. According to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, “Transparent Labs Mass Gainer scores a 4.25 out of 5 for its formulation.
It accomplishes exactly what it’s intended to accomplish, and the ingredients list is very transparent.”
Each two-scoop serving packs 53 grams of high-quality protein from grass-fed whey, 110 grams of carbohydrates sourced from tapioca maltodextrin, and 14 grams of fat, creating a well-rounded nutritional profile that caters to those looking to gain muscle efficiently.
However, Bourgeois notes that “each serving provides 580 milligrams of sodium and 12 grams of saturated fat.”
While these numbers are higher than some may prefer, especially for those concerned about heart health, they’re essential to consider when choosing how often to use this product.
Flavor and Consistency:
Our testers were particularly impressed with the taste and texture of Transparent Labs Mass Gainer.
The Chocolate Glaze Donut flavor earned high praise, with one tester saying it “tastes exactly like a chocolate donut,” earning a 4.5 out of 5.
It also comes in a Sweet Vanilla flavor, although the flavor options are somewhat limited.
In terms of consistency, this product received a perfect score of 5 out of 5.
When mixed with water, the powder dissolved smoothly without any clumps, and testers reported no negative side effects, which is a significant plus.
Best Tasting Mass Gainer: Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer
If you’re going to be consuming a mass gainer frequently, you’ll want one that’s enjoyable to drink.
That’s where Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer shines, offering one of the most delicious options on the market.
Our testers were especially impressed with its taste, making it the ideal choice for those who value flavor as much as muscle growth.
Specs:
- Calories per Serving: 487.92 calories
- Protein Source: Whey protein
- Macros per Serving: 10.42 grams of fat, 55.29 grams of carbs, 39.73 grams of protein
- Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla
- Price per Serving: $4.49
Pros
- Highly rated vanilla flavor, described as “pleasant” and similar to a vanilla protein shake.
- Includes MCT oil to provide healthy fats.
- Contains digestive enzymes to support gut health.
Cons
- MLower macros compared to some other mass gainers (fewer calories and carbs per serving).
- Uses sucralose as a sweetener, which may not be preferred by everyone.
- Solubility is less than ideal; and requires frequent shaking or mixing.
Why We Chose It:
Crazy Nutrition’s Mass Gainer tastes the next level. “The vanilla flavor is pleasant,” one tester shared, awarding it a flavor score of 4 out of 5. “It tastes a lot like a vanilla protein powder,” making it a favorite among those looking for a great-tasting supplement.
However, the solubility of the product left something to be desired, with our team giving it a score of 2 out of 5. “One serving is four scoops, but we only tested with two scoops,” one tester explained. “Even in a blender, the oat powder settles at the bottom, so you have to shake it up after every sip.”
Despite some issues with solubility, Crazy Nutrition’s Mass Gainer still delivers on many fronts.
The formula is lighter in calories than some competitors, with 487 calories per serving and 53 grams of carbs — compared to other products like Transparent Labs’ Mass Gainer, which offers over 100 grams of carbs per serving.
This could make Crazy Nutrition a great option for athletes with smaller frames or those looking for a more moderate caloric surplus.
Digestibility and Side Effects:
It’s important to note that this product contains milk protein, which may not be suitable for all athletes.
One tester, who is sensitive to lactose, reported some stomach discomfort despite the inclusion of lactase in the formula, rating the side effects a 3 out of 5.
Another tester, however, experienced no adverse effects, suggesting that those with a history of dairy sensitivity should start with small amounts and gradually increase their intake.
Overall, Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer offers a tasty and moderately priced option, ideal for those looking to gradually increase their calorie intake without sacrificing flavor.
Best Mass Gainer for Bodybuilding: Huel Black Edition
For bodybuilders focused on maintaining a high-protein diet while keeping fats and carbs low, Huel Black Edition is an excellent choice.
Unlike traditional mass gainers, this product is technically a meal replacement, but it offers an impressive nutritional profile ideal for those who want to build muscle without consuming excessive calories.
Specs:
- Calories per Serving: 400 calories
- Protein Source: Pea protein, brown rice protein
- Macros per Serving: 18 grams of fat, 25 grams of carbs, 40 grams of protein
- Flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, Banana, Strawberry Shortcake, Coffee Caramel, Cookies & Cream, Salted Caramel, Cinnamon Roll, Unflavored & Unsweetened
- Price per Serving: $3.11
Pros
- High in protein (40 grams per serving) with low fat (18 grams) and carb (25 grams) content, ideal for bodybuilders looking to control their macros.
- Contains 27 added vitamins and minerals for comprehensive nutrition.
- Provides 29% of your daily fiber requirement per serving.
Cons
- High in protein (40 grams per serving) with low fat (18 grams) and carb (25 grams) content, ideal for bodybuilders looking to control their macros.
- Contains 27 added vitamins and minerals for comprehensive nutrition.
- Provides 29% of your daily fiber requirement per serving.
Why We Chose It:
Huel Black Edition stands out for bodybuilders because it focuses on delivering high protein content with controlled fat and carbohydrate levels.
Each serving packs 400 calories derived from 40 grams of protein sourced from pea and brown rice proteins, 25 grams of carbs, and 18 grams of fat.
This makes it perfect for bodybuilders who want to keep their macros balanced while focusing on muscle growth.
What makes Huel Black Edition unique is that it’s more than just a mass gainer; it’s a well-rounded meal replacement packed with 27 vitamins and minerals.
This formula scored a perfect 5 out of 5 for its nutritional profile, making it a great choice for athletes following a strict meal plan and looking to fill any potential nutrient gaps.
Flavor and Texture:
Our testers were particularly impressed with the Cookies & Cream flavor, giving it a perfect score of 5 out of 5. “It wasn’t too sweet, and I love adding it to my coffee,” one tester shared.
“I only used a fraction of a full serving in my espresso, but it made for a delicious way to start my day.”
The powder also scored well for solubility, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5.
“Huel dissolves pretty well in water, as the instructions suggest, but you can still slightly taste the powder. However, when blended, it’s completely seamless.”
Digestibility and Side Effects:
Another significant benefit of Huel Black Edition is its digestibility.
The product is gluten-free and lactose-free, making it suitable for those with sensitivities.
Our tester reported no negative side effects, giving this category a perfect 5 out of 5. “I usually get an upset stomach from many protein supplements, but I had no issues here,” they said.
Best Vegan Mass Gainer: Transparent Labs Vegan Mass Gainer
For those following a plant-based diet, finding a quality mass gainer can be a challenge.
Luckily, Transparent Labs Vegan Mass Gainer fits the bill perfectly.
This mass gainer is completely vegan, using pea protein isolate instead of milk-based protein, and contains zero animal ingredients.
It’s designed to support muscle growth while aligning with vegan dietary preferences.
Specs:
- Calories per Serving: 730 calories
- Protein Source: Pea protein isolate
- Macros per Serving: 10 grams of fat, 115 grams of carbs, 52 grams of protein
- Flavors: Chocolate Glaze Donut, Vanilla Cupcake
Pros
- Entirely vegan with no animal ingredients, ideal for plant-based diets.
- High-calorie content (730 calories per serving) to help maintain a calorie surplus for muscle growth.
- Includes fiber, which may aid digestion.
Cons
- Mixability: Some users may find that Nutricost Creatine Monohydrate does not mix as smoothly as other creatine supplements.Limited to only two flavor options, which may lead to flavor fatigue.
- More expensive compared to some other mass gainers on the market.
Why We Chose It:
Just as you can find delicious vegan protein powders, you can also find plant-based mass gainers like the Transparent Labs Vegan Mass Gainer.
This product mirrors the macros of Transparent Labs’ standard mass gainer, delivering a hefty 730 calories per serving, with 10 grams of fat, 115 grams of carbs, and 52 grams of protein.
All this is achieved using pea protein isolate, which makes it a great option for those looking to build muscle while avoiding animal products.
What makes Transparent Labs Vegan Mass Gainer stand out is its commitment to clean ingredients.
The formula contains no artificial colors and is Informed Choice-certified, ensuring transparency and quality. This earned the formulation a score of 4.5 out of 5.
Flavor and Taste:
Our testers were pleasantly surprised by the flavor of this vegan mass gainer. “The chocolate flavor truly tastes like a donut,” said one tester, giving it a 4.5 out of 5 for taste. In addition to the Chocolate Glaze Donut, there’s a Vanilla Cupcake option.
However, with only two flavor choices, some users might experience flavor fatigue over time.
Best Natural Mass Gainer: Naked Nutrition Naked Mass
If you’re looking for a natural mass gainer without artificial additives, Naked Nutrition Naked Mass is a top contender.
This supplement is made with high-quality, grass-fed whey protein concentrate and micellar casein and is sweetened with organic coconut sugar, not artificial sweeteners.
It’s non-GMO and formulated with minimal ingredients to provide a clean, natural product for athletes focused on transparency in their supplements.
Specs:
- Calories per Serving: 1,360 calories
- Protein Source: Whey protein concentrate, micellar casein
- Macros per Serving: 15 grams of fat, 251 grams of carbs, 50 grams of protein
- Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Double Chocolate
- Price per Serving: $6.36
Pros
- No artificial additives; uses grass-fed protein and organic coconut sugar.
- Available in both standard and vegan versions.
- High-calorie count (1,360 calories per serving) with balanced macros for muscle gain.
Cons
- Relatively low in fats compared to carbs and protein.
- Among the priciest options on the market at $6.36 per serving.
Why We Chose It:
For athletes who prefer a natural approach to supplementation, Naked Nutrition Naked Mass is an excellent choice.
This product contains no artificial sweeteners, flavors, or additives and is sweetened with organic coconut sugar. Made with grass-fed whey protein concentrate and micellar casein, it ensures a high-quality protein source. With 1,360 calories per serving, it’s one of the most calorie-dense options available, delivering 50 grams of protein, 251 grams of carbohydrates, and 15 grams of fat.
Nutritionist Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN praised the formula, noting, “I like that Naked kept the sodium content low in some flavors of their mass gainer formula, and I’m a fan of the short ingredient lists,” awarding the formula a rating of 4 out of 5.
Flavor and Texture:
Our testers tried the unflavored version and found the taste highly dependent on preparation.
“Mixed with just water, it’s a 2 out of 5 on taste because there’s really no sweetness,” noted one tester. “With plain milk, it’s like I’m drinking heavy cream, which I also didn’t love. But in a smoothie with some banana, peanut butter, and cocoa powder, you can barely tell it’s there.”
Overall, the taste received a rating of 4 out of 5, but the unflavored version might not be ideal for those looking for a more enjoyable standalone taste.
Solubility and Mixing:
Solubility scores varied significantly based on preparation methods. When mixed with water in a shaker cup, the product became very foamy, resulting in a score of 2 out of 5.
However, when blended, it mixed smoothly, earning a perfect 5 out of 5. Therefore, this mass gainer is best suited for those who have access to a blender for preparation.
Best Digesting Mass Gainer: Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer
For those who experience digestive discomfort with mass gainers, Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer offers a solution with a carefully balanced formula that’s easy on the stomach.
This product is designed to deliver a clean and efficient blend of proteins and carbs without the digestive distress that can come from higher-fiber supplements.
Specs:
- Calories per Serving: 560 calories
- Protein Source: Whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, milk protein isolate, micellar casein
- Macros per Serving: 5 grams of fat, 99 grams of carbs, 30 grams of protein
- Flavors: Chocolate Fudge, Soft Serve Vanilla, Cookies & Cream, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Toast Cereal, Campfire Smores
- Price per Serving: $2.73
Pros
- Only 4 grams of fiber per serving, which may aid in easier digestion.
- Provides a blend of fast and slow-digesting proteins with 30 grams of protein per serving.
- Six different flavor options and three container size options (5 lbs, 10 lbs, and 12 lbs).
Cons
- Contains only 5 grams of fat, which may leave some users feeling hungry sooner.
- Milk-based protein may not be suitable for those with dairy sensitivities.
Why We Chose It:
Fiber is essential for a healthy diet, but too much in a single shake can be hard on digestion. Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer offers a lower fiber content (4 grams per serving), which may help prevent digestive discomfort.
This formula includes 30 grams of protein from a diverse blend of whey concentrate, whey isolate, milk protein isolate, and micellar casein, which provides a mix of fast and slow-digesting proteins to support muscle protein synthesis throughout the day.
Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN notes, “The inclusion of micellar casein is beneficial due to its extended-release nature, which may enhance muscle protein synthesis.”
This balanced blend earned the product a score of 3.5 out of 5 for its formulation.
Flavor and Texture:
Our testers appreciated the flavor variety and consistency. “I have the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor which tastes really good,” one tester remarked, awarding the flavor 5 out of 5.
“It really tastes true to the name. I’ve also mixed this powder with both water and soy milk, and the flavor stays consistent.”
The solubility of Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer also impressed our team, earning a perfect 5 out of 5.
Our tester noted that the powder mixed smoothly without any clumps, which is rare for dense supplements.
“With every other mass gainer product I’ve tested, you usually see clumps or a grainy texture. That’s not the case at all here,” our tester commented.
Digestibility:
Testers reported no negative side effects, even those with a history of gastrointestinal issues with mass gainers. “I have GI issues with mass gainers pretty often, but my stomach was fine with this one,” one tester noted, highlighting the product’s gentleness on the digestive system.
However, one minor drawback is the design of the included scooper. “It’s an odd shape and has a point to make it easier to pour into a narrow spout,” a tester explained.
“But I actually find myself spilling the powder more often than with a standard scooper.” For those prone to spills, keeping a spoon nearby may be helpful.
Overall, Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer is a solid choice for those who need a mass gainer that is gentle on digestion, offers a variety of flavors, and comes at an affordable price.
Best Mass Gainer Protein Powder: Mutant Mass
For athletes seeking a potent blend of whey and casein proteins in their mass gainer, Mutant Mass offers a compelling option with its protein-packed formula designed to support muscle growth and recovery.
Specs:
- Calories per Serving: (Please provide if known)
- Protein Source: Whey protein, casein protein
- Macros per Serving: 6 grams of fat, 96 grams of carbs, 28 grams of protein
- Flavors: Six different flavors
- Price per Serving: $2.81
Pros
- Features a blend of whey and casein proteins, providing both fast- and slow-digesting options.
- Available in six different flavors, offering variety compared to most mass gainers.
- Relatively budget-friendly at $2.81 per serving.
Cons
- Contains sucralose as a sweetener, which may not appeal to all athletes.
- Each serving includes 13% of your daily sodium intake.
- Some flavors may come across as overly sweet and artificial, depending on personal preference.
Why We Chose It:
Mutant Mass stands out for its protein blend of whey and casein, offering 28 grams of protein per serving.
This combination ensures a sustained release of amino acids to support muscle recovery and growth over an extended period.
While the calorie content meets mass gainer standards, our testers noted a few drawbacks.
The use of sucralose as a sweetener received mixed reviews, with some finding certain flavors overly sweet.
“I tried out the Cookies & Cream,” one tester mentioned, giving the flavor a 3 out of 5. “It wasn’t my favorite, I’m not going to lie. It was really sweet and artificial, in my opinion.”
Solubility was another area of concern, with testers reporting clumping issues, resulting in a lower solubility rating of 2 out of 5.
This can affect the overall experience, especially when mixing with liquids.
Flavor and Texture:
The taste and texture may vary depending on the flavor chosen. While some testers found certain flavors overly sweet and artificial, others may find flavors more to their liking.
It’s recommended to explore different options to find the most enjoyable flavor profile.
Quality and Value:
One aspect where Mutant Mass falls short is the lack of third-party testing, which could provide reassurance regarding ingredient quality and purity.
However, the product remains competitively priced at $2.81 per serving, making it accessible compared to many other mass gainers on the market.
Despite some flavor and solubility concerns, Mutant Mass offers a solid choice for athletes looking to increase their calorie intake with a protein-rich mass gainer.
The blend of whey and casein proteins ensures a comprehensive approach to muscle support, making it a viable option for those aiming to enhance muscle growth and recovery.
Best Mass Gainer Protein Powder: Mutant Mass
For athletes seeking a potent blend of whey and casein proteins in their mass gainer, Mutant Mass offers a compelling option with its protein-packed formula designed to support muscle growth and recovery.
Specs:
- Calories per Serving: (Please provide if known)
- Protein Source: Whey protein, casein protein
- Macros per Serving: 6 grams of fat, 96 grams of carbs, 28 grams of protein
- Flavors: Six different flavors
- Price per Serving: $2.81
Pros
- Features a blend of whey and casein proteins, providing both fast- and slow-digesting options.
- Available in six different flavors, offering variety compared to most mass gainers.
- Relatively budget-friendly at $2.81 per serving.
Cons
- Contains sucralose as a sweetener, which may not appeal to all athletes.
- Each serving includes 13% of your daily sodium intake.
- Some flavors may come across as overly sweet and artificial, depending on personal preference.
Why We Chose It:
Mutant Mass stands out for its protein blend of whey and casein, offering 28 grams of protein per serving.
This combination ensures a sustained release of amino acids to support muscle recovery and growth over an extended period.
While the calorie content meets mass gainer standards, our testers noted a few drawbacks.
The use of sucralose as a sweetener received mixed reviews, with some finding certain flavors overly sweet.
“I tried out the Cookies & Cream,” one tester mentioned, giving the flavor a 3 out of 5. “It wasn’t my favorite, I’m not going to lie. It was really sweet and artificial, in my opinion.”
Solubility was another area of concern, with testers reporting clumping issues, resulting in a lower solubility rating of 2 out of 5. This can affect the overall experience, especially when mixing with liquids.
Flavor and Texture:
The taste and texture may vary depending on the flavor chosen. While some testers found certain flavors overly sweet and artificial, others may find flavors more to their liking.
It’s recommended to explore different options to find the most enjoyable flavor profile.
Quality and Value:
One aspect where Mutant Mass falls short is the lack of third-party testing, which could provide reassurance regarding ingredient quality and purity.
However, the product remains competitively priced at $2.81 per serving, making it accessible compared to many other mass gainers on the market.
Despite some flavor and solubility concerns, Mutant Mass offers a solid choice for athletes looking to increase their calorie intake with a protein-rich mass gainer.
The blend of whey and casein proteins ensures a comprehensive approach to muscle support, making it a viable option for those aiming to enhance muscle growth and recovery.
Best Budget Mass Gainer: Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass
When it comes to finding a budget-friendly mass gainer that doesn’t compromise on calories and nutrients, Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass stands out as a solid choice.
This product offers a significant calorie boost without breaking the bank, making it an excellent option for athletes looking to maximize their gains on a budget.
Specs:
- Calories per Serving: 1,260 calories
- Protein Source: Whey protein concentrate
- Macros per Serving: 5 grams of fat, 252 grams of carbs, 50 grams of protein
- Flavors: Chocolate Peanut Butter, Vanilla, Strawberry, Banana
- Price per Serving: $5.62
Pros
- Provides a substantial 1,260 calories per serving, more than many other mass gainers on the market.
- Includes a comprehensive vitamin and mineral profile, covering most daily nutritional needs.
- Affordable overall cost of $44.99 per tub, making it a budget-friendly option for those who need a high-calorie supplement.
- Available on Amazon Prime for convenient purchasing.
Cons
- Contains very little fat, which may not align with all athletes’ macronutrient goals.
- The high carb content of 252 grams per serving may be excessive for some users.
Why We Chose It:
Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass offers an impressive calorie count of 1,260 per serving, making it an excellent choice for those who need to significantly increase their calorie intake.
With 50 grams of protein, this product supports muscle growth and recovery, while its rich vitamin and mineral profile contributes to overall health.
The cost-effectiveness of this product is a key highlight. At $44.99 per tub or about $5.62 per serving, it provides more calories and nutrients compared to many other options at a similar price point.
Despite this, our testers rated the price per serving a 3.5 out of 5, as it’s still on the higher side for a budget-friendly product.
Flavor and Texture:
The Vanilla flavor received mixed reviews. “It’s not terrible, but the Vanilla tastes like a typical artificial vanilla powder,” said one tester, giving it a 3.5 out of 5.
It’s described as drinkable when mixed into smoothies with other ingredients, though it may not be the standout flavor.
In terms of solubility, the product performed well with a 4 out of 5 rating.
It mixed better than some competitors, though a blender was required to achieve optimal results.
Quality and Value:
Our testers gave Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass a 5 out of 5 for side effects, noting no issues with stomach unrest or bloating.
This makes it a solid choice for those with sensitive stomachs or who experience discomfort with other mass gainers.
Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass is an excellent option for athletes looking for a cost-effective mass gainer that delivers a high calorie and protein content.
While the flavor may not be the most exciting, its affordability, comprehensive nutrient profile, and effective performance make it a worthwhile choice for those aiming to gain muscle mass without overspending.
Best High-Carb Mass Gainer: MuscleTech Mass Tech Extreme 2000
For athletes who need a mass gainer with an exceptionally high carbohydrate content, MuscleTech Mass Tech Extreme 2000 stands out.
This supplement offers one of the highest calorie and carbohydrate counts among mass gainers, making it ideal for those who need to significantly boost their calorie intake.
Specs:
- Calories per Serving: 2,130 calories
- Protein Source: Whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, hydrolyzed whey protein isolate
- Macros per Serving: 6 grams of fat, 460 grams of carbs, 60 grams of protein
- Flavors: Triple Chocolate Brownie, Vanilla Milkshake
- Price per Serving: $10.99
Pros
- High Carbohydrate Content: With 460 grams of carbs per serving, this mass gainer provides a substantial carbohydrate boost, which is more than any other product on this list.
- High-Calorie Count: At 2,130 calories per serving, it offers the most calories of any mass gainer we reviewed.
- Protein Content: Each serving includes 60 grams of protein, supporting muscle growth and recovery.
Cons
- Price: At $10.99 per serving, this is one of the most expensive mass gainers available.
- Imbalanced Macros: The high carbohydrate content relative to protein and fat may not be ideal for all athletes and could lead to imbalanced nutrition.
Why We Chose It:
MuscleTech Mass Tech Extreme 2000 is tailored for those who need a high-calorie, high-carb supplement to meet their energy and growth needs.
The substantial calorie and carbohydrate content makes it a go-to for those who struggle to consume enough calories through regular meals.
However, the formula received a mixed review for overall quality. While it excels in calorie and carb content, the high price and imbalanced macros led to a formula rating of 3 out of 5.
Flavor and Texture:
The flavor of the Triple Chocolate Brownie did not impress our tester. “It tasted more like mocha fudge than a chocolate brownie,” said Kate Meier, CPT, giving it a 2 out of 5 for taste.
The texture and solubility also left something to be desired. Mixed with water, the shake was noted as extremely thin, while mixing with milk resulted in a texture too thick, almost like pudding. This led to a solubility rating of 2 out of 5.
Quality and Value:
The price is a significant drawback, with one five-serving bag costing $54.99, translating to about $10.99 per serving.
Despite the high calorie and carb content, the high cost makes it less budget-friendly.
MuscleTech Mass Tech Extreme 2000 is best suited for athletes who need a massive calorie and carb boost.
It delivers an impressive amount of calories and carbohydrates per serving but comes at a high price with some compromises in flavor and texture.
If you can manage the cost and don’t mind the imbalanced macros, it can be a powerful addition to your mass-gaining strategy.
Best High-Calorie Mass Gainer: Dymatize Super Mass
For those who need to significantly increase their daily calorie intake, Dymatize Super Mass stands out with its impressive calorie count.
It offers a high-calorie boost while maintaining a relatively budget-friendly price, making it a great option for serious gainers.
Specs:
- Calories per Serving: 1,280 calories
- Protein Source: Whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, milk protein isolate, whey protein hydrolysate, micellar casein
- Macros per Serving: 10 grams fat, 245 grams carbs, 52 grams protein
- Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla
- Price per Serving: $4.99
Pros
- High-Calorie Content: With 1,280 calories per serving, this mass gainer provides a substantial calorie boost, which is ideal for those struggling to consume enough calories through regular meals.
- Cost-Effective: At $4.99 per serving, it’s more affordable than many other high-calorie mass gainers, offering great value for the calories and nutrients provided.
- Creatine Included: This formula includes creatine monohydrate, which can help support muscle growth and strength.
Cons
- Limited Flavor Options: The product only comes in Chocolate and Vanilla, which may become monotonous if used frequently.
- Higher Fat Content: Some athletes might find the 10 grams of fat per serving higher than desired, depending on their dietary goals.
Why We Chose It:
Dymatize Super Mass is designed for individuals looking to achieve a significant calorie surplus.
With its high calorie and carbohydrate content, it supports weight gain and muscle growth effectively.
Despite its inclusion of artificial sweeteners like sucralose—which some might find problematic—the overall formula performs well in terms of providing essential calories and nutrients.
Flavor and Texture:
Our tester enjoyed the Vanilla flavor, rating it 4 out of 5. “It wasn’t overly sweet, and it tasted more natural than some other vanilla supplements,” they said.
While the flavor options are limited to Chocolate and Vanilla, they were deemed adequate but could benefit from more variety.
The product excelled in solubility, receiving a 5 out of 5. “It mixed very well without clumping, which is impressive for a mass gainer,” the tester noted.
Additionally, there were no reported side effects like bloating or gas, adding to its appeal.
Quality and Value:
Priced at $39.98 for an eight-serving container, or about $4.99 per serving, Dymatize Super Mass offers a cost-effective option for high-calorie needs.
The affordability and calorie density make it a valuable choice for those who need to consume large amounts of calories without breaking the bank.
The availability of Amazon Prime also allows for potential subscription savings.
Dymatize Super Mass is an excellent choice for athletes who need a high-calorie mass gainer without spending too much.
It delivers a significant calorie boost with good solubility and taste, though it has limited flavor options and a higher fat content.
If you can manage with the flavors offered and are looking for a budget-friendly, high-calorie supplement, this product is worth considering.
How to Choose the Right Mass Gainer for You
Mass gainers are versatile supplements that can help with muscle gain (source 2), calorie consumption, and filling dietary gaps.
Choosing the right one involves considering various factors that align with your fitness goals and lifestyle.
Here’s what to look for:
1. Calories
- Caloric Needs: Mass gainers can range from 200 to over 1,000 calories per serving. Determine your daily caloric needs based on your fitness goals—whether it’s gaining muscle, increasing overall calorie intake, or addressing a caloric deficit.
- Frequency of Use: If you need to significantly increase your calorie intake, opt for a higher-calorie mass gainer. For moderate increases, a lower-calorie option might suffice.
2. Macronutrients
- Protein-to-Carb Ratio: Different mass gainers have varied protein-to-carb ratios. A lower ratio (e.g., 1:2 protein: carbs) is suitable for lean muscle gain, while a higher ratio (e.g., 1:5 protein:carbs) is ideal for those aiming to bulk up with more carbs.
- Balancing Macros: Consider how the macronutrient profile fits with your overall diet and workout regimen. Choose a mass gainer that complements your nutritional strategy and fitness goals.
3. Nutrient Profile
- Additional Supplements: Many mass gainers include extra vitamins, minerals, creatine, or digestive enzymes. These can aid in overall health, muscle recovery, and digestion.
- Ingredient Quality: If you prefer a straightforward supplement, choose one with minimal additives. If you want added benefits, select a product with the supplementary ingredients you need.
4. Other Ingredients
- Digestive Aids: Look for mass gainers with added digestive enzymes if you have a sensitive stomach or want to ensure better absorption.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Some products offer additional nutrients to support overall health, which can be beneficial for those on a bulking diet.
5. Customer Testimonials
- Reviews and Ratings: While individual reviews can be subjective, consistently positive feedback and high ratings can indicate a reliable product. Look for trends in customer experiences to gauge effectiveness and taste.
- Real-Life Experiences: Check for reviews from individuals with similar goals or needs to see how the product performed for them.
6. Price
- Cost Comparison: Compare prices across different brands and products. Prices can vary widely, even for similar ingredient profiles and calorie counts.
- Value for Money: Consider both the price per serving and the total cost per container. Sometimes, a higher upfront cost can offer better value if it meets your needs effectively.
The Benefits of Mass Gainers
Mass gainers can be a valuable tool for those looking to increase their calorie intake and build muscle.
Here are some key benefits:
1. Easy Calorie Addition
- Convenience: Mass gainers provide a straightforward way to add a large number of calories to your diet without the need to prepare and consume large quantities of solid food.
- Liquid Calories: Liquids are often easier to consume and digest compared to solid foods, making it simpler to meet high-calorie goals, especially if you have a limited appetite or are struggling to eat enough.
2. Muscle Building Support
- High-Calorie Density: Mass gainers typically offer a high caloric content per serving, which can help you achieve a calorie surplus necessary for muscle growth.
- Protein Content: Many mass gainers are formulated with a significant amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth (source : 1). They often include a blend of fast- and slow-digesting proteins to support sustained protein synthesis.
3. Nutritional Convenience
- Balanced Macros: Mass gainers often include a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, along with additional nutrients like vitamins and minerals. This can simplify your nutrition and help ensure you’re getting a range of essential nutrients.
- Supplementation: Some mass gainers come with added ingredients like creatine, digestive enzymes, or additional vitamins, which can support overall health, energy, and digestion.
4. Increased Digestibility
- Easier Consumption: For those who find it challenging to eat large amounts of food to meet their calorie needs, mass gainers offer a more manageable way to consume calories.
- Digestive Support: Many mass gainers are designed to be easily digestible, with formulations that minimize gastrointestinal discomfort.
Considerations
- Calorie Overestimation: It’s easy to overestimate your calorie needs when using mass gainers. Without proper tracking, you might end up consuming more calories than necessary, which can lead to unwanted fat gain.
- Accurate Measurement: Effective muscle gain requires not just a calorie surplus, but also accurate tracking of your intake and understanding of your nutritional needs. A mass gainer should be used as part of a well-rounded diet and training plan.
In summary, mass gainers can be an effective tool for adding calories and protein to your diet, supporting muscle growth, and providing convenience.
However, it’s crucial to ensure that you are also managing your overall nutrition and calorie intake accurately to achieve the desired results.