THE 11 BEST MASS GAINERS OF 2025 TO HELP YOU PUT ON QUALITY MUSCLE, TESTED BY EXPERTS

Building muscle and adding size isn’t always as simple as increasing workout intensity or volume. For many, the toughest challenge is consuming enough calories and nutrients to support muscle growth. While seasoned bodybuilders often stress the importance of eating big to get big, the reality is that eating several thousand calories daily can be overwhelming. Mass gainers, high-calorie supplements designed to make meeting those nutritional goals easier, have become a preferred tool for those looking to accelerate muscle gain. Instead of preparing plate after plate of food, individuals can supplement their diets with specially formulated shakes that deliver protein, carbohydrates, and fats efficiently.

A high-quality mass gainer can be especially helpful for people who struggle to eat enough through whole foods alone or for athletes with very high energy expenditure. Each product differs, so it’s vital to look beyond calories alone. The best mass gainers are judged on factors such as caloric content, macro breakdown, solubility, taste, affordability, and ingredient transparency. Trainers, competitive athletes, and registered dietitians have weighed in on the current market’s leading options, evaluating them for everyday usability, muscle-building support, and value.

One of the standout options is the Transparent Labs Mass Gainer, which exemplifies transparency by listing every ingredient and its exact amount. It delivers around 760 calories per serving, with 53 grams of protein and 109 grams of carbs derived from natural sources like tapioca, oat, and sweet potato. It includes 3 grams of creatine, which has been shown to support strength and recovery. This product is free from artificial ingredients, gluten, and added sugar, catering to those who value clean nutrition. Its 1:2 protein-to-carb ratio is suitable for most athletes aiming for lean muscle, with flavor profiles earning high praise for taste. While more expensive than many competitors, Transparent Labs Mass Gainer stands out for ingredient quality and effectiveness, though it does contain a higher amount of saturated fat and cholesterol.

For individuals seeking a plant-based option, Vegan Naked Mass from Naked Nutrition offers a minimalist approach with just three ingredients: yellow pea protein, organic brown rice protein, and organic maltodextrin. Each serving provides over 1,200 calories and 50 grams of protein, appealing to those with dietary restrictions. While plant-based proteins sometimes lack a complete amino acid profile, this product covers all essentials but provides fewer branched-chain amino acids than some alternatives. It contains minimal micronutrients, however, so users may need to supplement vitamins and minerals from other dietary sources. The relatively high cost and big serving size may deter some users, but its ingredient purity is a strong selling point.

For gym-goers who have trouble gaining weight but don’t need excessive calorie surpluses, Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer is tailored to those with smaller frames. Rather than adding 1,000+ calories, its moderate 488-calorie serving creates a controlled surplus, less likely to result in unwanted fat gain. It also includes digestive enzymes to aid in nutrient absorption but is not third-party tested, which is worth considering for those who prioritize supplement safety. Similarly, Huel Black Edition delivers 400 calories per serving with 40 grams of protein, using a blend of pea, flaxseed, and rice protein for a rounded amino acid profile. This product functions well as a meal replacement shake and includes a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals, making it suitable for active individuals needing a nutrition boost between meals.

Some athletes prefer mass gainers that include additional supplements for performance, such as creatine. Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass is notable here, delivering 1,250 calories and 5 grams of creatine per serving, supporting users who want to maximize both strength and size. However, it does contain artificial sweeteners and has a high sugar content, which might not appeal to everyone. The shake mixes best in a blender due to its thickness and can taste overly sweet depending on user preference. Dymatize Super Mass Gainer and MuscleTech Mass Tech Extreme 2000 are among the most calorie-dense products available, offering upwards of 1,200 to 2,000 calories per serving for those with extremely high energy needs or severe difficulties gaining weight. These are suitable for those in intense bulking phases but are best avoided by anyone who does not need a substantial calorie surplus.

Safety and suitability should always be a priority. While mass gainers can be very effective for hard gainers, powerlifters, bodybuilders, and athletes needing to meet specific weight requirements, they are not ideal for everyone. Individuals with certain health issues, such as organ dysfunction or gastrointestinal disorders, should refrain from using these high-calorie supplements without medical supervision. Even healthy users should be mindful that excess calories not burned through activity can convert to fat rather than muscle, emphasizing the need for appropriate exercise and an overall balanced diet.

Evaluating a mass gainer involves more than reading the nutrition label. Mixability is important, as a shake that clumps or tastes unpleasant is less likely to be used consistently. The macro ratio—how protein, carbs, and fat are balanced—impacts muscle preservation and energy. Carbohydrates are especially important in mass gainers, as adequate non-protein calories allow protein to be used primarily for repairing and building muscle rather than being burned as fuel. The type of protein used also matters: whey protein concentrate and isolate are frequently chosen for their quality and digestibility, while some options emphasize slow-release proteins to support overnight recovery.

Price per serving is a practical consideration. While many mass gainers are priced between $3 and $6 per serving, there are budget-oriented options like Mutant Mass. It provides a solid protein count and whole food sources at a lower price, though with more artificial ingredients and thickeners, which can affect solubility and taste. For lean muscle gain without excessive calories, products like Muscle Milk Pro offer high protein in a lower-calorie format, helping to minimize unwanted fat accumulation.

Using a mass gainer should complement, not replace, a whole foods-based diet. Athletes and trainees should ensure that such supplements fit within their total daily caloric and macronutrient needs. Because mass gainers may lack certain vitamins and minerals, users should continue to prioritize nutrient-dense foods. Monitoring training intensity, sleep, and overall recovery is equally important to maximize the benefits of mass gainers. The most effective approach is to combine these supplements with consistent strength training, adequate rest, and a holistic approach to nutrition.

Ultimately, the best mass gainer is the one that matches the individual’s goals, dietary preferences, and health status. Whether aiming for rapid mass, gradual muscle gain, or simply looking for a convenient way to increase caloric intake, a thoughtfully chosen mass gainer can streamline the process and support quality results. As always, consulting with a nutritionist or healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen ensures that both performance and health remain on track.