10 Best Supplements For Gaining Weight in 2026

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Our best overall supplement for gaining weight is Dymatize Super Mass Gainer for its high-calorie, all-in-one formula that simplifies hitting a caloric surplus. We also highlight NAKED Chocolate Mass Gainer for clean ingredients and Optimum Nutrition Pro Gainer for a high-protein approach. Gaining weight requires consistently eating more calories than you burn, which can be a major hurdle for those with fast metabolisms or low appetites.

This guide uses research on specifications and owner feedback to help you find the right concentrated source of calories and nutrients to meet your mass-building goals.

Top 10 Supplements For Gaining Weight in the Market

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The Best Supplements For Gaining Weight, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Dymatize Super Mass Gainer Protein Powder

Dymatize Super Mass Gainer Protein Powder
Calories per serving1,280
Protein per serving52g
Protein blendWhey + casein
Creatine per serving1g
Servings per container8
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What We Like

  • High-calorie formula for mass gain
  • Dual-protein blend for sustained delivery
  • Includes creatine and essential vitamins
  • Versatile for shakes and recipes

Trade-offs

  • Large serving size at 245g of carbs
  • Only 8 servings per 6 lb container
  • Requires blending or mixing into food

With 1,280 calories and 52 grams of protein per serving, this gainer delivers the dense nutritional payload needed to push past a calorie surplus. It combines fast-acting whey and slow-digesting casein, a pairing that aims to spike muscle protein synthesis immediately after a workout and then sustain it for hours. The added gram of creatine and a suite of vitamins round out a formula designed for the individual whose primary obstacle to gaining size is simply eating enough. It’s a straightforward, calorie-forward solution for dedicated lifters struggling to meet high daily intake goals.

Each serving of this mass gainer delivers 1,280 calories and 245 grams of carbohydrates, providing a substantial volume of food in a single shake. That density can be challenging for individuals with smaller appetites to consume regularly. While the Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Gainer container is larger in physical size, the Dymatize package offers eight servings in a more compact tub. This suits someone testing a high-calorie formula or with limited storage space.

Best for: The lifter or athlete who struggles to consume enough calories through whole foods alone and needs a potent, all-in-one shake to force a consistent surplus. Not ideal for those seeking a lean gain or who are sensitive to high carbohydrate loads.

Product photos

#2Best High-Calorie Value

Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Gainer

Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Gainer
Calories per servingOver 1,200
Protein per serving50g blended protein
Carbohydrates per servingOver 250g
Added micronutrients20+ vitamins & minerals
Serving size2 scoops
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What We Like

  • Extremely high calorie count supports aggressive bulking
  • Substantial carb and protein blend fuels and repairs muscle
  • Includes a comprehensive vitamin and mineral profile
  • Brand emphasizes stringent quality control measures

Trade-offs

  • At over 250g of carbs, it is unsuitable for low-carb diets

A single serving delivers over 1,200 calories, which is the primary tool here for someone who genuinely struggles to eat enough to gain weight. This makes it a logical choice for hardgainers in a dedicated bulking phase or anyone needing to dramatically increase their daily energy intake without consuming an impractical volume of food. The inclusion of over 20 vitamins and minerals adds a layer of nutritional support that cheaper calorie sources often lack.

Its 2.0-pound container is relatively compact, so you will go through it more quickly than a bulk option like the 15-pound Mutant Mass. It is built for maximum calorie convenience, not for those seeking a minimalist or low-carb approach to weight gain.

Best for: Athletes and hardgainers requiring a dense, fortified calorie bomb to break through a plateau. Not ideal for those seeking a lean gain, following a ketogenic diet, or wanting a large-container value purchase.
#3Best Clean Ingredients

NAKED Chocolate Mass Gainer

NAKED Chocolate Mass Gainer
Calories per serving1,360
Protein per serving50g
Carbohydrates per serving251g
Sugar per serving5g
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What We Like

  • Extremely short, five-ingredient list
  • Uses organic tapioca maltodextrin, not wheat-based
  • NSF Certified for verified purity and safety
  • No artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors

Trade-offs

  • Very high 251g of carbs per serving demands serious activity
  • Bulk 8lb size is a commitment for a single flavor

With 1,360 calories anchored by just five named ingredients, this mass gainer is built for the minimalist who distrusts long labels. It suits those seeking a clean, substantial calorie surplus from recognizable sources like organic coconut sugar, raw cacao, and gluten-free tapioca carbs. They will also value the third-party verification of NSF certification over proprietary blends. The multi-phase protein from whey and casein provides a sustained release, which is practical for spacing out nourishment, but the formulation is squarely about fueling mass.

Each serving delivers 251 grams of carbohydrates to reach its 1,360-calorie total, a formula designed for hard gainers who need a massive energy influx to support weight gain. This high carb load is effective for fueling intense training and growth, but it demands a matching level of daily activity to avoid unwanted fat accumulation. The ingredient list keeps these calories clean, using only organic tapioca maltodextrin and coconut sugar instead of common wheat-based fillers or artificial additives.

Best for: The ingredient-conscious hard gainer prioritizing purity and a high-calorie punch. Not ideal for those seeking a lean-gain or high-protein-focused formula.

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#4Best Balanced Formula

BSN True-Mass Weight Gainer

BSN True-Mass Weight Gainer
Calories per serving690
Protein per serving50g
Carb-to-protein ratio2:1
Protein blendWhey, casein, egg
Key fatsMedium chain triglycerides
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What We Like

  • 690 calories provides substantial extra nutrition
  • 2:1 carb-to-protein ratio supports mass goals
  • Multi-source protein blend includes fast and slow types
  • MCT fats round out the nutritional profile

Trade-offs

  • 690 calories is modest next to 1280-calorie options

Each 690-calorie serving provides the substantial surplus needed for weight gain, but avoids the extreme bulk of higher-calorie options like Dymatize Super Mass Gainer’s 1280 calories. Its 2:1 ratio of carbohydrates to protein delivers a balanced macro foundation for fueling workouts and recovery. The blend of whey and casein proteins offers a mix of fast and slow-digesting sources, while medium-chain triglycerides contribute an efficiently used fat source.

Compared to the Dymatize Super Mass Gainer’s 1280 calories, this product offers a more moderate calorie load per serving. This can make it easier to integrate into a daily diet without overwhelming your calorie goals. The ingredient list specifies a focused blend of multiple protein sources and carbohydrates without extensive additional compounds.

Best for: The lifeter seeking a balanced, mid-calorie gainer to complement a solid diet and training routine. Not ideal for individuals requiring extreme caloric intake or those who prefer single-source, minimalist formulas.

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#5Best Whole Food Blend

Mutant Mass Weight Gainer

Mutant Mass Weight Gainer
Protein per serving56 g
Calories per serving1,100
Carbohydrates per serving192 g
Container size15 lb
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What We Like

  • Exceptionally high 1,100-calorie serving
  • Blends three protein types for sustained release
  • Large 15 lb container offers long-term supply

Trade-offs

  • Massive 15 lb container requires significant storage space
  • 192 g of carbs per serving is extremely high

A single serving provides 1,100 calories, which directly supports the increased calorie intake needed for weight gain. This high-calorie approach suits individuals with fast metabolisms or those who find it difficult to consume enough food. The formula uses whole food ingredients like barley, sweet potato, and avocado oil for its carbohydrates and fats.

Each serving also contains 192 grams of carbohydrates, a substantial amount that requires consideration for individual dietary tolerance. The product’s container holds 15 pounds of powder, a large size that demands significant storage space.

Best for: Hardgainers and highly active individuals needing a massive, whole-food-infused calorie surplus to drive weight gain. Not ideal for those seeking lean gains, managing carbohydrate intake, or with limited storage space.
#6Best Vegan Formula

NAKED Vegan Mass Gainer

NAKED Vegan Mass Gainer
Calories per serving1,230
Protein per serving50g
Carbohydrates per serving245g
Key ingredientsPea protein, rice protein
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What We Like

  • Exceptionally clean, five-ingredient vegan formula
  • NSF certified for verified purity and safety
  • Uses gluten-free, tapioca-based complex carbohydrates
  • Mild flavor allows for easy customization

Trade-offs

  • Vanilla is the sole flavor option available

The 1,230-calorie formula hinges on a radically transparent, five-ingredient list, making it a standout for anyone who prioritizes knowing exactly what they’re putting in their body. It’s the logical choice for strict vegans or those with dairy, soy, or gluten sensitivities who still need a substantial caloric surplus. The NSF certification adds a layer of verified trust that’s rare in the category, and the 2:1 pea-to-rice protein ratio ensures a complete amino acid profile for muscle synthesis.

The mild vanilla flavor is a blank canvas, which is perfect for the tinkerer who wants to add their own fruit or flavors, but a drawback if you prefer a rich, ready-to-drink shake. It’s a premium, specialized tool for a specific job, not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Best for: Vegan athletes and clean-label purists needing high-calorie weight gain. Not ideal for those seeking maximum protein per serving or multiple flavor options.
#7Best Grass-Fed Protein

Transparent Labs Mass Gainer

Transparent Labs Mass Gainer
Calories per serving770
Protein per serving53g grass-fed whey
Carbohydrates per serving110g+ complex
Creatine per serving3g monohydrate
Weight7.1 pounds
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What We Like

  • Clean formula with no artificial fillers
  • Third-party tested for purity
  • Uses nutrient-dense whole food carb sources
  • Includes clinically dosed creatine

Trade-offs

  • Only 15 servings per container
  • Weighs 7.1 pounds for shipping

With 770 calories per serving from sources like sweet potato powder and grass-fed whey, this mass gainer provides a nutrient-dense foundation for a lean bulk. Its formula avoids artificial sweeteners and colors, appealing to users who prioritize ingredient quality. The 53 grams of protein and 110 grams of complex carbohydrates support muscle building and sustained energy, while the included 3 grams of creatine monohydrate aids recovery.

At 770 calories, it delivers a more moderate total compared to some alternatives, such as the Dymatize Super Mass Gainer with 1280 calories. This positions it for a controlled caloric surplus rather than an extreme one. The product’s focus on whole-food carbohydrate sources and grass-fed protein results in a clean, third-party tested formula.

Best for: The buyer seeking a clean, grass-fed protein source and complex carbs for a controlled lean bulk.
#8Best High-Protein Option

Optimum Nutrition Pro Gainer

Optimum Nutrition Pro Gainer
Calories per serving650
Protein per serving60g
Carbohydrates per servingMore than 80g
Sugar per servingLess than 8g
Container weight10.2 pounds
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What We Like

  • High 60g protein blend per serving
  • Substantial 650-calorie delivery
  • High carbohydrate content for energy restoration
  • Relatively low sugar content under 8g

Trade-offs

  • Large 10.2-pound container requires significant storage
  • Lower calorie count than Dymatize Super Mass Gainer

With 60 grams of protein packed into each 650-calorie serving, the Optimum Nutrition Pro Gainer is built for adding lean mass, not just any weight. The macro split prioritizes protein over sheer caloric density, which suits a disciplined lifter focusing on muscle synthesis. It also manages to keep the sugar content surprisingly low for a product in this category. That detail matters if you’re monitoring your intake beyond just the totals.

At 650 calories per serving, Optimum Nutrition Pro Gainer sits at the more moderate end of the mass gainer spectrum, delivering a substantial but not extreme calorie load. For comparison, the Dymatize Super Mass Gainer provides 1280 calories per serving. This positions Pro Gainer as an option for those seeking a significant calorie increase without the highest available totals.

Best for: The lifter seeking a high-protein, moderate-calorie foundation for lean mass gains. Not ideal for those requiring maximum caloric density per serving.
#9Best High-Carb Ratio

Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer

Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer
Calories per serving1,220+
Carbohydrates per serving250g+
Protein per serving40g all-whey
Carb-to-protein ratio6:1
CreatineMonohydrate included
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What We Like

  • Extremely high 6:1 carb-to-protein ratio
  • Over 1,220 calories per serving
  • Made in GMP-certified US facilities
  • Includes creatine monohydrate

Trade-offs

  • High-carb formula is less protein-dense than some

With a 6:1 carb-to-protein ratio delivering over 1,220 calories, this is a formula designed for one thing: adding bulk fast. It’s for the hardgainer who struggles to eat enough, where every calorie counts and a high-carb load is the primary goal. The inclusion of creatine monohydrate is a pragmatic touch for supporting training intensity, and the fact it’s made in a certified facility offers some peace of mind in a category not known for transparency. This is a tool for a specific phase, not a daily protein shake.

It’s a straightforward, no-frills approach to weight gain. For someone whose main barrier is sheer caloric intake, this ratio is the point. If your primary focus leans more toward maximizing protein intake per calorie, something like the Transparent Labs Mass Gainer, with its different macro split, would be a more logical comparison to run the numbers against.

Best for: Hardgainers and athletes in a bulking phase who need maximum carbohydrates and calories from each serving. Not ideal for those seeking a lean, high-protein formula or minimal serving volume.

Product photos

#10Best Lean Mass Builder

ALLMAX QUICKMASS Gainer

ALLMAX QUICKMASS Gainer
Calories per serving1,010
Protein per serving64g
Carb-to-Protein Ratio3:1
Vitamins & Minerals20 essential
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What We Like

  • High 64g protein per serving for muscle support
  • Slow-release carb blend for sustained energy
  • Includes 20 essential vitamins and minerals
  • Easy to mix with water for convenience

Trade-offs

  • At 1,010 calories, it's a substantial caloric load per shake
  • 3.5 lb container is smaller than many mass gainers

With 1,010 calories and 64 grams of protein in a single serving, this is a tool for adding serious mass as efficiently as possible. Its 3:1 carb-to-protein ratio and blend of slow-digesting carbs like sweet potato and oats are designed to fuel intense training and recovery without a sugar crash. That makes it a logical choice for dedicated athletes struggling to eat enough calories from whole foods alone. It’s a focused formula, and the inclusion of 20 vitamins and minerals rounds out the nutritional profile in a way that matters when you’re pushing your body hard.

ALLMAX QUICKMASS delivers 1,010 calories per serving, so it’s designed for significant mass gain rather than a light post-workout drink. For someone with a smaller appetite or more moderate goals, that caloric density can be overwhelming. The formula is clinically studied to boost fat-free mass, positioning it for serious athletes focused on lean muscle. If your priority is a giant container for long-term value, the Mutant Mass offers a 15-pound tub.

Best for: The serious athlete or hardgainer who needs a high-calorie, protein-dense shake to efficiently meet aggressive mass-building targets. Not ideal for those with a sensitive stomach to large shakes or anyone seeking a plant-based or minimalist-ingredient formula.

Product photos

How We Evaluated Supplements For Gaining Weight

Our evaluation was based on researching product specifications, manufacturer documentation, expert round-ups, and patterns in owner feedback. We prioritized formulas that deliver a substantial caloric surplus, the quality and ratio of macronutrients, and the inclusion of performance-supporting ingredients like creatine. We also valued transparency in labeling, third-party certifications, and formulas tailored for specific diets like vegan. The main limit of a research-based evaluation is that we cannot verify individual digestive tolerance or taste preferences, which vary significantly between users.

What To Look For In Supplements For Gaining Weight

Choosing the right supplement depends on your calorie needs, dietary preferences, and training goals. Look beyond marketing to the actual macro breakdown and ingredient list.

Focus on calories per serving, protein source and amount, carbohydrate type and load, and any added vitamins or performance aids like creatine. Your choice should efficiently bridge your personal caloric gap.

Caloric Density

The primary function of a weight gain supplement is to help you achieve a caloric surplus. Mass gainers typically deliver between 650 to over 1,200 calories per serving. A higher calorie count is crucial for “hardgainers” who struggle to eat enough whole food, but it may be excessive for someone seeking leaner gains.

Evaluate your daily intake gap; a modest 650-700 calorie shake might suffice if you only need a small boost, while aggressive bulking may require the 1,000+ calorie options. Our research on mass gainer supplements shows they concentrate calories into a convenient, drinkable format.

Macronutrient Profile

Examine the protein, carbohydrate, and fat content. For muscle-focused gains, aim for a product with at least 40-60 grams of protein per serving from quality sources like whey, casein, or plant-based blends. The carb-to-protein ratio is telling: a 6:1 ratio prioritizes quick energy and calories for bulking, while a 2:1 ratio offers a more balanced approach for leaner mass.

The type of carbohydrates matters, too; formulas using complex carbs like oats or organic tapioca provide sustained energy, while simple sugars can cause energy spikes. For those focused purely on muscle, our guide to protein supplements details how they support muscle protein synthesis.

Ingredient Quality & Special Diets

Scrutinize the ingredient list for additives, artificial sweeteners, and sourcing. Clean formulas like NAKED’s use just five recognizable ingredients, which is ideal for sensitive stomachs or purists. Third-party certifications (NSF, Informed-Choice) verify purity and banned substance testing, important for competitive athletes. Specialized needs are common; vegan formulas use pea and rice protein, while others prioritize grass-fed whey. For those with specific needs, we have resources on supplements for men and supplements for skinny guys.

  • Check for allergens like gluten, soy, or dairy if you have sensitivities.
  • Look for added digestive enzymes if you experience bloating from large shakes.
  • Prefer products with clinically dosed creatine monohydrate if performance is a goal.
  • Consider flavor options and mixability, as a product you enjoy is one you’ll use consistently.
  • Note the container size and servings per container to assess value and storage needs.

The best supplement is the one you can tolerate and consume consistently to maintain your surplus.

Supplements For Gaining Weight Compared

For a quick side-by-side view of key specifications, the table below compares these ten top picks.

ProductCalories per servingProtein per servingCarbohydrates per serving
Dymatize Super Mass Gainer Protein Powder1,28052g245g
Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass GainerOver 1,20050g blended proteinOver 250g
NAKED Chocolate Mass Gainer1,36050g251g
BSN True-Mass Weight Gainer69050gN/A
Mutant Mass Weight Gainer1,10056 g192 g
NAKED Vegan Mass Gainer1,23050g245g
Transparent Labs Mass Gainer77053g grass-fed whey110g+ complex
Optimum Nutrition Pro Gainer65060gMore than 80g
Rule 1 Proteins Mass Gainer1,220+40g all-whey250g+
ALLMAX QUICKMASS Gainer1,01064gN/A

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best supplement for gaining weight?

The most effective type is a mass gainer or high-calorie protein powder, as it directly provides the caloric surplus required for weight gain. The best specific product depends on your needs; for most people seeking an all-in-one solution, our top pick is Dymatize Super Mass Gainer.

How can I gain 20 pounds fast?

Gaining weight quickly requires a significant and consistent caloric surplus combined with resistance training. This training helps direct those calories toward muscle growth. A high-calorie mass gainer supplement can help overcome appetite barriers, but fast gains often include water weight. This approach should focus on nutrient-dense foods and proper training form to ensure health and sustainability.

What is the healthiest weight gain supplement?

The healthiest options prioritize whole-food-based ingredients, minimal processing, and no artificial additives. Look for supplements with short, recognizable ingredient lists, complex carbohydrates like oats or tapioca, and protein from clean sources. NAKED Chocolate Mass Gainer is a standout for its extremely clean, five-ingredient formula.

What are some effective supplements for weight gain?

Effective supplements include mass gainers for high calories, protein powders for muscle support, and creatine for enhanced training performance that can lead to muscle growth over time. For a comprehensive look at different effective types, you can explore our article on weight gain supplements.

Are weight gain supplements safe?

When used as directed and chosen from reputable brands that undergo third-party testing, weight gain supplements are generally safe for healthy adults. However, they can cause digestive discomfort if you’re sensitive to ingredients like lactose or high sugar loads. It’s always wise to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially for specific populations covered in our resource on supplements for elderly individuals.

The Bottom Line

For the lifter or athlete who simply cannot eat enough to gain weight, Dymatize Super Mass Gainer provides the most complete, high-calorie solution in a single shake. If your budget is a primary concern or you need an extreme caloric bomb, consider the Best High-Calorie Value pick, Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Gainer.

Those with strict dietary preferences should look to award winners like NAKED Vegan Mass Gainer or Transparent Labs Mass Gainer. Ultimately, the most important factor is choosing a product you can consistently use to maintain the daily caloric surplus essential for weight gain.