Best Mass Gainer for Hardgainers: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

For those of us who are “hardgainers,” packing on quality size can feel like an uphill battle against a fast metabolism. Eating enough whole food to create a calorie surplus is often difficult and impractical. That’s where a high-quality mass gainer comes in. After rigorous testing and evaluation of the top products on the market, we’ve crowned the Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Weight Gainer Protein Powder Chocolate 6 Pound as our top pick. It delivers a formidable 1,250 calories and 50 grams of protein per serving, enhanced with creatine and glutamine, providing the comprehensive nutritional support needed to finally move the scale.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Mass Gainer for Hardgainers

#1 Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Weight Gainer Protein Powder Chocolate 6 Pound – Ideal for: Maximum Caloric Intake

As our top pick, the Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Weight Gainer Protein Powder Chocolate 6 Pound is a true heavyweight in the world of mass gainers, specifically formulated for those who struggle to gain weight. During our testing, its most impressive feature was the sheer caloric density. Packing 1,250 calories, 50g of a blended protein, and over 249g of carbs into a single serving, this gainer makes hitting a significant caloric surplus straightforward. We found the chocolate flavor to be rich and satisfying, especially when mixed with milk, making it a treat rather than a chore to drink. Many users confirmed our experience, noting significant weight gain, with some reporting gains of 15 pounds in a month when combined with a consistent diet and workout regimen. A key point to understand is the serving size. The two included scoops are massive, creating a very large shake. We found, as did many users, that starting with a half-serving (one scoop) is often more manageable and still provides a substantial 625-calorie boost. This flexibility allows you to tailor your intake to your specific needs without feeling overly full. The inclusion of creatine, glutamine, and essential vitamins makes this more than just a calorie bomb; it’s a comprehensive muscle-building formula.

#2 Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Weight Gainer Chocolate 12lb – Perfect for: Bulk Value Buyers

For those committed to a serious bulking phase, the Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Weight Gainer Chocolate 12lb offers the same powerhouse formula as our top pick but in a larger, more economical package. We appreciate the value this 12lb bag provides, ensuring you have a consistent supply to fuel your gains over a longer period. The nutritional profile is identical, delivering over 1,200 calories and 50 grams of multi-source protein to support sustained muscle nourishment. Our tests showed it mixes just as well as the smaller tub, creating a smooth, rich shake that’s surprisingly palatable for such a dense gainer. The taste is a solid chocolate that avoids being overly sweet. As many users have pointed out, consistency is key, and this bulk size supports that. We found that using half-servings or customizing shakes with additions like peanut butter or bananas is a fantastic way to manage the volume and further boost the nutritional content. While some users noted the shake can be thick, we found this was easily managed by adding a bit more liquid or using a blender. If you’ve tried and loved Serious Mass before, this 12lb bag is the most logical and cost-effective next step.

#3 Body Fortress Super Advanced Mass Gainer Chocolate 1-4lb Jar – Suits: Budget-Conscious Beginners

The Body Fortress Super Advanced Mass Gainer Chocolate 1-4lb Jar presents a solid entry-level option for those looking to add surplus calories without a huge initial investment. In our evaluation, we noted it provides over 1,000 calories and a respectable 40g of protein per serving. What stands out is the inclusion of a 2.5g dose of Betaine, an ingredient known to support lean mass and recovery. The flavor is a classic chocolate that we found quite pleasant and easy to drink. However, a major point of consideration is the serving size. To achieve the advertised nutritional value, you need to use six scoops of powder. We found this created an incredibly thick, paste-like consistency that was difficult to mix and drink. Many users shared this sentiment, recommending using half-servings (3 scoops) for better mixability. Another common piece of feedback we can confirm is that the large container arrives less than half full. While the product is sold by weight and the amount is accurate, the oversized packaging can feel misleading. Despite these quirks, for someone new to gainers who wants an affordable way to boost their calorie intake, this product does the job.

#4 Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pro Gainer Weight Gainer – Ideal for: Lean Mass Gain

The Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pro Gainer Weight Gainer is designed for the hardgainer who wants to build lean mass without an overwhelming flood of calories. This is what we’d call a “clean” gainer. It delivers a more balanced 650 calories per serving, but with a powerful 60g of high-quality protein and a more moderate 80g of carbohydrates. This higher protein-to-carb ratio is excellent for prioritizing muscle growth while minimizing potential fat gain. During our trials, the Double Chocolate flavor was fantastic—rich but not cloyingly sweet, a sentiment echoed by countless users. It mixed exceptionally well in a shaker with milk, producing a smooth, clump-free shake that was easy on the stomach. We experienced none of the bloating that can sometimes accompany higher-calorie gainers. One quirk we and other users discovered is that the included scoop doesn’t quite measure a full serving (165g) when leveled; it’s closer to 115-120g. To get the full benefits, you’ll need about 1.5 scoops. This is a minor inconvenience for a product that performs so well. For athletes focused on quality over sheer quantity, this is an outstanding choice.

#5 BSN TRUE-MASS Weight Gainer Vanilla Ice Cream – Perfect for: Milkshake Lovers

If taste and texture are your top priorities, the BSN TRUE-MASS Weight Gainer Vanilla Ice Cream is a game-changer. BSN has a reputation for phenomenal flavoring, and this product lives up to the hype. We found it created a rich, creamy, and satisfyingly thick shake that truly resembled a vanilla milkshake, especially when blended with milk and a banana. It packs a solid 700 calories with a 2:1 carb-to-protein ratio (around 46-50g of protein), making it a well-balanced option for adding lean mass. The protein blend is comprehensive, featuring seven different sources for sustained release, and the inclusion of MCT fats adds quality calories. Our experience was that it was very easy to drink and digest. Many users have successfully used this product for significant transformations, confirming its effectiveness. One thing to be aware of, which we also noted, is the comically large scoop. A full serving is three of these massive scoops, which can seem daunting. However, the excellent taste makes it manageable. This is the gainer we’d recommend to anyone who has struggled with the flavor of other supplements; it’s a genuinely enjoyable way to get your extra calories in.

#6 Mutant Mass Weight Gainer Protein Powder Triple Chocolate – Suits: Athletes Wanting Whole-Food Ingredients

The Mutant Mass Weight Gainer Protein Powder Triple Chocolate stands out by incorporating whole-food ingredients into its high-calorie formula. This isn’t just a mix of protein and maltodextrin; it includes sources like barley, sweet potato, rolled oats, and even avocado and coconut oil. This approach impressed us, as it provides a more diverse and nutrient-dense carbohydrate and fat profile. With 1100 calories and 56g of protein per serving, it’s a serious contender for packing on size. We found the Triple Chocolate flavor to be rich and satisfying, tasting great even when mixed with just water. One of the best features during our testing was how well it sat in the stomach. A number of users who experienced digestive issues with other gainers reported that Mutant Mass was much easier to digest, which we attribute to the whole-food blend. The powder also produces less foam when blended compared to some competitors. While some users have noted discrepancies in the advertised serving counts on different packaging, the quality of the product itself is consistently high. If you want a powerful gainer that feels more like real food, this is an excellent choice.

#7 MuscleMeds CARNIVOR Beef Protein Mass Gainer – Ideal for: Dairy-Free and Lactose Intolerant Individuals

For individuals who are lactose intolerant or simply want to avoid dairy, the MuscleMeds CARNIVOR Beef Protein Mass Gainer is a unique and highly effective solution. Its foundation is hydrolyzed Beef Protein Isolate (BPI), which provides 50g of protein per serving without any of the whey, casein, or lactose found in most gainers. We were initially curious about the taste of a beef-based gainer, but the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor was surprisingly good and smelled great upon opening the tub. It delivers over 700 calories and 125g of carbs, all while being sugar-free, fat-free, and cholesterol-free. During our testing, we found it mixed quite well in a blender, which we recommend over a shaker cup to ensure a smooth consistency. Its unique iSpike technology is designed to optimize the anabolic impact of insulin, helping to shuttle nutrients into the muscles more effectively. Many users have praised this product as a lifesaver for their dairy-sensitive stomachs, allowing them to finally use a mass gainer without digestive distress. If you need a powerful, non-dairy gainer, this is one of the best options available.

#8 NAKED Chocolate Mass Gainer 8lb – Perfect for: Clean Eating Enthusiasts

The NAKED Chocolate Mass Gainer 8lb lives up to its name with a refreshingly simple and clean ingredient list. It’s formulated with just five components: whey, casein, organic tapioca maltodextrin, organic coconut sugar, and organic raw cacao. For those of us who are cautious about artificial sweeteners, flavors, and additives, this product is a breath of fresh air. It provides a massive 1,360 calories and 50g of protein per serving, making it one of the most potent gainers we tested. We found the taste to be a natural, authentic chocolate, not overly sweet, which makes it very versatile for adding to smoothies. A blender is definitely required for this one; our attempts with a shaker cup resulted in clumps, but it blended into a creamy texture perfectly. This experience was shared by many users who praised the clean formula and effective results. There has been some user confusion regarding a change in the recommended serving size on the label (from 4 to 7 scoops), but the total weight per serving (333g) remains the same. The key is to weigh the powder for accuracy. If you prioritize clean, minimal ingredients above all else, NAKED Mass is the undisputed champion.

#9 NAKED Vegan Mass Chocolate Weight Gainer 8LB – Suits: Plant-Based Athletes

Finding a high-quality vegan mass gainer can be a challenge, but the NAKED Vegan Mass Chocolate Weight Gainer 8LB rises to the occasion. Like its whey-based counterpart, it boasts a clean, simple formula of just five ingredients: pea protein, organic rice protein, organic tapioca maltodextrin, organic coconut sugar, and organic cacao. This combination provides a complete amino acid profile, something we look for in any plant-based protein. It delivers an impressive 1,280 calories and 50g of protein per serving, putting it on par with the most potent dairy-based gainers. We found the chocolate flavor to be pleasant and natural, although, as is common with vegan proteins, there is a slightly grainy texture. This was not off-putting and was easily incorporated into a smoothie with fruit and nut butter, a method many users also recommend. This gainer was remarkably easy on our stomachs, with none of the bloating that can sometimes accompany whey. As with other NAKED products, there have been some user reports and concerns about changes in the label’s serving size, so we recommend weighing your scoops to ensure accurate calorie tracking. For any hardgainer following a vegan or plant-based diet, this is an exceptional choice.

#10 Animal Protein Shake Muscle Recovery Chocolate – Ideal for: Meal Replacement and Recovery

The Animal Protein Shake Muscle Recovery Chocolate is less of a pure “mass gainer” and more of a whole-food-based meal replacement, perfect for athletes who need balanced, easily digestible nutrition. Its protein blend is unique, featuring pea, egg white, and beef protein isolates, delivering 46g per serving. The carbohydrate sources are equally impressive, with sweet potato, pea starch, and rolled oats providing sustained energy. During our testing, we immediately noticed the less-sweet, more natural taste, which we found to be a welcome change from overly sugary shakes; it tastes like a bland, earthy chocolate malt. This product truly shines in its digestibility. It felt light on the stomach and kept us feeling full and satisfied for hours, making it an excellent option between meals or post-workout. Many experienced users praise it for this very reason, noting it provides high-quality macros without any digestive upset. While its calorie count per serving is lower than traditional gainers, its nutritional quality is top-tier. For the serious athlete who prioritizes clean, whole-food ingredients for recovery and sustained performance, Animal Meal is a fantastic choice.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

When selecting a mass gainer, especially as a hardgainer, several factors come into play. It’s not just about picking the one with the most calories.

• Calorie Density: The primary purpose of a mass gainer is to provide a surplus of calories. Look for products offering at least 600-700 calories per serving. For extreme hardgainers, products in the 1,000-1,300 calorie range are often necessary to see results.
• Protein-to-Carbohydrate Ratio: A good gainer isn’t just sugar and fat. A solid protein content (40-60g per serving) is crucial for building muscle, not just gaining weight. The carbohydrates provide the energy for intense workouts and replenish glycogen stores. A ratio of around 1:3 or 1:4 protein-to-carbs is often effective for lean gains.
• Ingredient Quality: Look beyond the macros. Are the carbohydrates from simple sugars like maltodextrin, or do they include complex sources like oats or sweet potato? Is the protein from a single source or a blend (whey, casein, egg) for sustained release? Cleaner, whole-food-based ingredients are often easier to digest.
• Digestibility: A common complaint with mass gainers is digestive distress or bloating. If you’re sensitive, look for products that are lactose-free, use beef or vegan protein sources, or include digestive enzymes to aid absorption.

Understanding Macronutrient Profiles

The “macros” – protein, carbohydrates, and fats – are the building blocks of any mass gainer. For a hardgainer, carbohydrates are king. They are protein-sparing, meaning your body will use them for energy first, allowing the protein you consume to be used for its primary purpose: muscle repair and growth. A high carbohydrate intake also creates an anabolic (muscle-building) environment by stimulating insulin release, which helps shuttle nutrients into your muscle cells. Protein, ideally from a blend of fast-digesting (whey) and slow-digesting (casein) sources, ensures a steady supply of amino acids to your muscles throughout the day. Fats are the most calorie-dense macronutrient and are essential for hormone production; look for healthy sources like MCTs, flax, or avocado powder.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many hardgainers make simple mistakes that hinder their progress. The most common is relying solely on the gainer. A mass gainer is a supplement, not a replacement for a solid diet. You should still be eating multiple whole-food meals throughout the day. Another mistake is taking the full, massive serving right from the start. This can overwhelm your digestive system. We always recommend starting with a half-serving to assess your tolerance and gradually increasing the amount. Finally, don’t neglect your training. You can’t just drink a high-calorie shake and expect to build muscle; you need to provide the stimulus for growth through intense, progressive resistance training.

Frequently Asked Questions

What defines a ‘hardgainer’ in fitness?

A ‘hardgainer’ is an informal term for someone who has a naturally lean body type (ectomorph) and a fast metabolism, making it difficult for them to gain weight, either as muscle or fat. They often need to consume a significantly higher number of calories than the average person to achieve a caloric surplus and see changes on the scale.

What is the ideal protein to carb ratio for a hardgainer’s mass gainer?

While it can vary based on individual goals, a common and effective ratio for hardgainers is between 1:3 and 1:5 (protein to carbohydrates). This ensures an abundance of carbohydrates to fuel workouts and replenish glycogen, while still providing ample protein (typically 40-60g per serving) for muscle synthesis.

Should hardgainers take a mass gainer on rest days?

Yes, absolutely. Muscle recovery and growth don’t just happen on the days you train. Consuming a mass gainer (perhaps a smaller serving) on rest days helps maintain a consistent caloric surplus and provides your body with the nutrients it needs to repair and build muscle tissue, which is a 24/7 process.

Are digestive enzymes important in a mass gainer for hardgainers?

They can be very beneficial. Mass gainers require your body to process a large volume of nutrients at once. Digestive enzymes like amylase (for carbs), protease (for protein), and lactase (for lactose in dairy) can help break down these macronutrients more efficiently, improving absorption and reducing the risk of bloating, gas, and indigestion.

How can a hardgainer prevent unwanted fat gain while using a mass gainer?

To minimize fat gain, ensure your training is intense and consistent to signal your body to use the extra calories for muscle growth. Start with a smaller surplus (e.g., 300-500 calories above maintenance) and adjust upwards slowly. Time your gainer around your workouts (post-workout is ideal) to take advantage of the body’s heightened ability to absorb nutrients. Finally, choose a gainer with a balanced macro profile and complex carbohydrates over simple sugars.

What are the most common mistakes hardgainers make with supplements?

The biggest mistake is relying entirely on supplements instead of a solid diet of whole foods. Another is “program hopping” – constantly changing workouts and supplements without giving them time to work. Consistency is key. Lastly, many neglect the importance of sleep and recovery, which are just as crucial for growth as training and nutrition.

Besides a gainer, what other supplements should a hardgainer consider?

Creatine Monohydrate is a must-have; it’s one of the most studied and effective supplements for increasing strength, performance, and muscle mass. A good multivitamin can help fill any nutritional gaps. Some may also benefit from a pre-workout supplement for energy and focus during training sessions.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

Navigating the world of mass gainers can be overwhelming, but for hardgainers looking for a reliable and effective solution, the choice is clear. After extensive testing and analysis, we confidently stand by our top recommendation: the Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Weight Gainer Protein Powder Chocolate 6 Pound. It simply checks all the essential boxes. Its massive 1,250-calorie payload provides the serious caloric surplus needed to overcome a fast metabolism. The 50-gram blended protein dose ensures your muscles have the fuel they need for growth, and the addition of creatine and glutamine makes it a truly comprehensive formula. While the serving size is large, its flexibility to be split into smaller, more manageable shakes makes it adaptable for any user. For its proven effectiveness, great taste, and all-in-one formula, it is the best tool for any hardgainer serious about building mass.

Last update on 2025-11-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API