13 Best Mass Gainer Protein Powders for Muscle Growth

Achieving significant muscle growth requires a strategic blend of rigorous training and proper nutrition. Mass gainer protein powders are specialized supplements designed to provide high-calorie content, combining proteins, carbohydrates, and fats to support muscle development and weight gain. This article explores the top 13 mass gainer protein powders available today, delving into their history, types, benefits, and how they can enhance your workout regimen.

The evolution of mass gainer protein powders dates back to the bodybuilding boom of the 1960s and 1970s. Athletes sought convenient ways to increase caloric intake to support intense training routines. Early formulations were rudimentary, often comprising simple blends of milk powder and sugars. Over the decades, advancements in nutritional science have led to the development of sophisticated mass gainers, offering balanced macronutrient profiles, added vitamins, minerals, and performance-enhancing ingredients like creatine and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs).​

Types of Mass Gainer Protein Powders

• High-Calorie Mass Gainers: These provide over 1,000 calories per serving, ideal for individuals with high metabolic rates or those struggling to gain weight.
• Lean Mass Gainers: Offering fewer calories, these are tailored for those aiming to build muscle without significant fat gain.​
• Plant-Based Mass Gainers: Utilizing protein sources like pea or brown rice protein, these are suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

Benefits of Mass Gainer Protein Powders

• Convenient Caloric Intake: Simplifies the process of consuming additional calories necessary for muscle growth.​
• Balanced Macronutrients: Provides an optimal ratio of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats to support muscle recovery and energy replenishment.​
• Enhanced Recovery: Ingredients like BCAAs aid in reducing muscle soreness and promoting faster recovery.​

How Mass Gainer Protein Powders Enhance Workouts

Incorporating mass gainer protein powders into your diet ensures that your body has the necessary nutrients to repair and build muscle tissues after intense workouts. The carbohydrates replenish glycogen stores, providing energy for subsequent training sessions, while proteins supply amino acids essential for muscle repair and growth. This combination facilitates improved performance, endurance, and overall workout efficiency.

Review of the Best Mass Gainer Protein Powders for Muscle Growth

1. Athlene Lean Mass Gainer 5LB Protein Shake

Athlene Lean Mass Gainer is formulated to support muscle growth with a balanced blend of proteins, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients. Each serving delivers a substantial calorie count, aiding individuals aiming to increase muscle mass effectively. The product is designed to mix easily, providing a convenient option for those seeking to enhance their dietary regimen.​

Pros:

• Balanced macronutrient profile supports lean muscle development.​
• Easily mixable, offering convenience for users.​

Cons:

• Limited flavor options may not cater to all taste preferences.​
• Availability may vary by region, potentially limiting access.​

2. BSN TRUE MASS WEIGHT GAINER

BSN True Mass is a high-calorie mass gainer designed for individuals seeking to increase muscle mass and overall body weight. Each serving provides a substantial amount of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, along with added fiber to support digestion. The product is known for its rich taste and smooth texture.​

Pros:

• High-calorie content supports significant muscle and weight gain.​
• Pleasant taste and texture enhance user experience.​

Cons:

• Contains higher sugar content, which may not suit all dietary plans.​
• Large serving size may be inconvenient for some users.​

3. ELITE LABS METABOLIC MASS 15lbs Mass Gainer

Elite Labs Metabolic Mass is formulated to provide an extensive calorie load per serving, aiming to support rapid muscle mass gain. It includes a blend of proteins, complex carbohydrates, and essential fatty acids, along with added vitamins and minerals to support overall health. The product is designed for easy mixing and digestion.​

Pros:

• Extremely high-calorie content suitable for hard gainers.​
• Includes a comprehensive nutrient profile with added vitamins and minerals.​

Cons:

• High calorie and carbohydrate content may not be suitable for all users.​
• Large packaging size may be cumbersome for storage.​

4. Muscle Rulz Gain Mass Gainer Powder

Muscle Rulz Gain Mass Gainer is designed to support muscle growth and recovery with a blend of proteins, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients. Each serving provides a balanced macronutrient profile, aiming to aid individuals in achieving their muscle mass goals. The product is noted for its mixability and taste.​

Pros:

• Balanced nutrient profile supports muscle growth effectively.​
• Good mixability and taste enhance user compliance.​

Cons:

• Moderate calorie content may not suffice for extreme mass gain goals.​
• Availability may be limited in certain regions.​

5. MUSCLETECH 100% Mass Gainer 5.15lbs

MuscleTech 100% Mass Gainer is formulated to provide high-quality protein and carbohydrates to support muscle mass gain. Each serving delivers a significant calorie count, along with added creatine and amino acids to enhance muscle recovery and growth. The product is designed for easy mixing and consumption.​

Pros:

• High-quality protein sources support effective muscle growth.​
• Includes added creatine and amino acids for enhanced recovery.​

Cons:

• High sugar content may not align with all dietary preferences.​
• Relatively small package size may require frequent repurchasing.​

6. MUTANT XXXTREME 2500 MASS GAINER

Mutant Xxxtreme 2500 is an ultra-high-calorie mass gainer designed for individuals aiming for extreme muscle mass gain. Each serving provides an exceptionally high calorie count, along with a blend of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats to support intense training regimens. The product also includes added creatine and amino acids.​

Pros:

• Extremely high-calorie content suitable for extreme mass gain goals.​
• Includes added creatine and amino acids to support muscle recovery.​

Cons:

• Very high carbohydrate content may not be suitable for all users.​
• Large serving sizes may be impractical for some individuals.​

7. Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Gainer Protein

Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass is a high-calorie mass gainer formulated to support muscle growth and weight gain. Each serving provides a substantial amount of protein, carbohydrates, and calories, along with added vitamins, minerals, and creatine. The product is known for its quality ingredients and effective results.​

Pros:

• High-calorie content supports significant muscle and weight gain.​
• Includes added vitamins, minerals, and creatine for comprehensive support.​

Cons:

• Large serving size may be challenging for some users.​
• Contains artificial flavors and sweeteners, which may not suit all preferences.​

8. Promatrix Mass Gainer Whey Protein Chocolate

Promatrix Mass Gainer is designed to support muscle mass gain with a blend of whey protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Each serving provides a balanced macronutrient profile, aiming to aid individuals in achieving their muscle growth goals. The chocolate flavor is noted for its palatability.​

Pros:

• Balanced nutrient profile supports effective muscle growth.​
• Pleasant chocolate flavor enhances user experience.

Cons:

• Moderate calorie content may not suffice for extreme mass gain goals.​
• Limited flavor options may not cater to all taste preferences.

9. PROTHIN Mass Gainer

Prothin Mass Gainer is formulated to help users gain lean muscle mass through a balanced blend of protein, carbohydrates, and calories. Designed for easy digestion and mixability, it suits beginners and hard gainers looking for a nutritional supplement to support their workout and recovery needs.

Pros:

• Easily digestible and beginner-friendly.
• Balanced formula for steady muscle gain.

Cons:

• Lower calorie count compared to other mass gainers.
• Limited availability and flavor options.

10. Raw Nutrition CBUM Mass Gainer

Developed in collaboration with Mr. Olympia Chris Bumstead, CBUM Mass Gainer by RAW Nutrition delivers high-quality macronutrients using whole-food ingredients. Each serving supports muscle growth with premium protein sources, carbohydrates, and added digestive enzymes for optimal absorption and performance.

Pros:

• Uses whole-food ingredients for clean bulking.
• Added digestive enzymes aid nutrient absorption.

Cons:

• Premium pricing may not suit all budgets.
• Lower calorie content than traditional hard-gainer formulas.

11. Rule 1 Mass Gainer

Rule 1 Mass Gainer is designed to support size and strength gains with over 1,220 calories per serving, including 40g of protein and 250g of carbs. It mixes well and includes essential amino acids for recovery and muscle protein synthesis.

Pros:

• High-carb and protein content ideal for bulking.
• Good mixability and flavor profile.

Cons:

• High sugar content may not fit low-sugar diets.
• Large serving sizes may be inconvenient.

12. Superior 14 S14 Mass Professional Weight Gainer

Superior 14 Mass Professional delivers over 1,000 calories per serving with a potent mix of protein, complex carbs, creatine, and BCAAs. It’s tailored for athletes who want rapid size and strength gains, and it comes in a range of flavors for better palatability.

Pros:

• Includes creatine and BCAAs for enhanced performance.
• High-calorie formula aids quick mass gain.

Cons:

• May be too calorie-dense for casual users.
• Not always widely available in local stores.

13. VPLAB Mass Builder 1.2 kg – High Protein Mass Gainer

VPLAB Mass Builder is a high-protein gainer with a balanced ratio of protein and complex carbs. It supports post-workout recovery and muscle growth while keeping sugar content relatively low. The 1.2 kg size makes it ideal for beginners testing mass gainers for the first time.

Pros:

• Low sugar compared to other mass gainers.
• Compact size is beginner-friendly.

Cons:

• Not suitable for long-term bulking due to smaller packaging.
• Limited flavor variety.

How to Choose the Right Mass Gainer Protein Powders

Choosing the right mass gainer depends on your fitness goals, metabolism, and dietary needs. Here’s how to make the best choice:

• Calorie Content: If you’re a hard gainer or have a fast metabolism, go for a product offering 1,000+ calories per serving.
• Protein-to-Carb Ratio: For lean muscle gains, aim for a balanced ratio (e.g., 1:2 or 1:3). For extreme bulking, higher carb content is ideal.
• Quality Ingredients: Look for high-quality protein sources (whey, casein), complex carbohydrates (oats, maltodextrin), and added nutrients (creatine, BCAAs).
• Sugar Levels: Choose low-sugar options if you’re watching your blood sugar or want cleaner gains.
• Digestibility: If you’re prone to bloating, select products with digestive enzymes or fewer artificial additives.
• Dietary Restrictions: Vegans or lactose-intolerant individuals should opt for plant-based or lactose-free formulas.

Safety Usage of Mass Gainer Protein Powders

Mass gainers are generally safe when used correctly. To maximize benefits and avoid issues:

• Follow Serving Sizes: Avoid overconsumption. Excess calories may lead to unwanted fat gain.
• Hydrate Well: High protein intake increases fluid needs. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Cycle When Necessary: Use gainers during bulking or high-intensity training phases. You can reduce intake during deload periods.
• Monitor Reactions: Stop using if you experience digestive discomfort, bloating, or allergic reactions.
• Consult a Healthcare Professional: Especially if you have existing health conditions like kidney issues or diabetes.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can plant-based protein powder build muscle?

Yes, when combined with resistance training and adequate calorie intake, plant-based proteins support muscle growth just like animal-based ones.

2. Are plant-based protein powders complete proteins?

Some are (like soy or blended powders), but many single-source proteins lack one or more essential amino acids.

3. Can I use plant protein powder as a meal replacement?

Yes, if combined with healthy fats, fiber, and carbs, it can make a balanced meal replacement shake.

4. Is it safe to take protein powder every day?

Yes, most people can safely consume it daily, provided total protein intake stays within recommended limits.

5. Do plant-based powders taste bad?

Some have earthy or gritty textures, but many newer formulas taste great—especially when blended into smoothies.

6. Can kids take plant-based protein powder?

Not unless advised by a pediatrician. It’s best to get kids’ protein from whole foods.

7. Will plant protein cause bloating?

It can, especially if it contains lots of fiber or sugar alcohol. Start with a small dose and increase gradually.

8. Do I need to refrigerate protein powder?

No, store it in a cool, dry place. Once mixed with liquid, refrigerate and consume within 24 hours.

9. Is organic plant protein better?

Organic ensures no pesticides or GMOs, but the quality of protein and processing method also matter.

10. Can I bake or cook with plant protein powder?

Yes, many are heat-stable and can be added to pancakes, muffins, and other recipes.

Conclusion

Plant-based protein powders offer a clean, effective way to fuel your fitness goals while aligning with a more sustainable, allergy-friendly lifestyle. Whether you’re aiming to build muscle, recover faster, or just eat cleaner, there’s a powder that fits your needs. Use this guide to make an informed choice and take your workouts—and nutrition—to the next level.