When you’re looking to pack on some size, getting a mass gainer is a no-brainer. The only issue is choosing the right one, especially when taste is a top priority. Save your sweating for the gym! We’ve scoured the market to bring you a roundup of the best-tasting mass gainers that not only pack a punch in the gains department but also delight your taste buds.
Spoiler alert: based on our testing, Mass Gainer by Transparent Labs is the overall best-tasting mass gainer.
But honestly it’s worth checking out the entire list. We have something for everyone, including vegans and those who prefer whole food ingredients.
Let’s go!
Mass Gainer from Transparent Labs is a great choice for those looking for a clean source of extra calories. This weight gainer powder combines grass-fed whey concentrate with organic carbohydrate sources and natural sweeteners to help you pack on mass.
Discount codes:
LV10 = 10% off at Transparent Labs
Table of Contents
The 5 Best Tasting Mass Gainers
- Mass Gainer – Transparent Labs
- Mass Gainer – Crazy Nutrition
- Home Made Mass Gainer – Axe & Sledge
- Clean Meal – Kaged
- Naked Mass – Naked
1. Mass Gainer – Transparent Labs
Mass Gainer from Transparent Labs is a great choice for those looking for a clean source of extra calories. This weight gainer powder combines grass-fed whey concentrate with organic carbohydrate sources and natural sweeteners to help you pack on mass.
Discount codes:
LV10 = 10% off at Transparent Labs
Forget about what people have been saying about Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass, Transparent Labs’ Mass Gainer is all you need to put on some serious mass. Crowned as the overall best-tasting mass gainer, it’s a true game-changer in the world of weight gainers, especially weight gainers for skinny guys.
With flavors like Chocolate Glaze Donut and Sweet Vanilla, every sip feels like an indulgent treat without the guilt.
But it’s not just about taste. This product, like other Transparent Labs products, stands out for its commitment to quality and transparency. It’s third-party tested, ensuring it’s free from heavy metals and banned substances. Plus, if you’re worried about artificial additives, you’ll be pleased to know it contains no artificial sweeteners.
The 2:1 carb-to-protein ratio ensures you’re getting the right nutrients to fuel your muscle-building journey. Every serving gives you a crazy 53 grams of protein!
Here’s a review of this product’s flavor from a verified buyer:
“Both the mass gainer (vanilla) and the 100% whey (peanut butter chocolate) have amazing taste, work well, and do not ever upset my stomach even if you drink either before eating. Definitely will be buying again!” – Cody W, July 2023.
Key Ingredients:
- Calories: 750
- Protein: 53 g
- Carbohydrates: 110 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Protein source: Grass-fed whey protein concentrate
- Sweetener: Stevia extract
2. Mass Gainer – Crazy Nutrition
If you thought Transparent Labs was the only contender in the ring, think again. Crazy Nutrition’s Mass Gainer is another reliable product for putting on some serious mass. While it might be a close second for the title of best-tasting mass gainer, it certainly doesn’t skimp on flavor or quality. With trusty classics like Vanilla and Chocolate, there’s something for every palate.
We picked it because it has a nearly 1:1 balance between carbs and protein. This is rare, as most mass gainers like to load on the carbs to jack up the calorie count.
One unique feature of Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer is its consistency. When blended, it becomes thicker, making for extra creamy shakes that feel indulgent. One potential downside with Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer is that its protein per serving certainly isn’t the best (compared to other bulking supplements) and it’s sweetened with sucralose, so it does lean on the sweeter side compared to other mass gainers. However, for those with a sweet tooth, it’s a nice treat.
Whether you’re new to the world of mass-gaining supplements or a seasoned pro, Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer is definitely worth a try.
Here’s what one of the many buyers had to say about it:
“Tastes great and steady gains.” – Junior C, March 2023.
Key Ingredients:
- Calories: 487
- Protein: 39 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Protein source: Whey protein concentrate
- Sweetener: Sucralose
3. Home Made Mass Gainer – Axe & Sledge
Home Made is the overall best meal replacement & mass gainer option for folks looking to get bigger. It uses a 1:1 protein to carbs ratio.
When it comes to variety and quality, Axe & Sledge’s Home Made Mass Gainer is hard to beat. This super mass gainer uses all sorts of protein powders in its formula, from pea protein to egg white powder, ensuring a comprehensive nutrient profile. The main carb ingredients – whole grain oat flour, and sweet potato powder – provide sustained energy without the rapid insulin spikes.
But what truly sets Home Made Mass Gainer apart is its extensive flavor range. With options like Vanilla, Peanut Butter Cookie, Double Chocolate Brownie, Sweet Potato Pie, Blueberry Muffin, and Lemon Cream Pie, it boasts the most flavor options of any product on this list.
It has a solid 46 grams of protein per serving and is sweetened with sucralose, which has its negatives, but the plus side is that each serving is a delightful blend of taste and nutrition. Among weight gainers, this is again another great way to put on some serious mass.
If you’d prefer something leaner, we also have a roundup of the best protein powders with whole food ingredients.
Take a look at what this satisfied customer had to say:
“Love this supplement! Tastes great and has the ideal macro nutrients I’m looking for as a rugby player and power lifter. I will buy it again many times!!” – Mark, August 2023.
Key Ingredients:
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 46 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Protein source: Whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, brown rice protein powder, pea protein, egg white powder
- Sweetener: Sucralose
4. Clean Meal – Kaged
Clean Meal from Kaged is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a complete, balanced meal replacement powder without resorting to "dirty" bulking.
Clean Meal combines organic carbohydrate sources (quinoa and Swedish oats) with whey, fruits, and veggies to help provide a lean and clean source of protein, carbs, and fat.
Recommended for building lean mass!
If you’re looking for a nutritious boost between meals, Clean Meal by Kaged is a top contender. Trust us when we say that it’s not just another mass gainer. It’s a product with a clear commitment to making the most of whole-food ingredients. With staples like quinoa, Swedish oats, and coconut oil, it’s a wholesome choice for the health-conscious.
Because it’s sweetened using a blend of sucralose and stevia, it strikes a nice balance between taste and nutrition. The flavor lineup is equally impressive, letting you choose between Snickerdoodle, Vanilla Cake, and Chocolate Peanut Butter. Clean Meal is a delicious and nutritious addition to any fitness regimen, whether you’re a seasoned gym-goer or just starting out.
Don’t believe us? Here’s what a buyer had to say about Clean Meal:
“I’m brand new to the meal replacement/protein powder world. I started a HIIT program and noticed gaps in my vegetarian diet. I searched for a brand without the stevia aftertaste and found Clean Meal. It tastes AMAZING with oat milk and water. I got all three flavors due to a sale, and Vanilla and Snickerdoodle are my favorites, with Chocolate Peanut Butter close behind. It’s filling and satisfying. I’ll be a long-time buyer, and my next order will be a subscription.” – Sarah, September 2023.
Key Ingredients:
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fat: 4.5 g
- Protein source: Whey protein isolate
- Sweetener: Sucralose, stevia
5. Naked Mass – Naked
Naked Mass is an excellent weight gainer supplement for anyone looking for clean, transparent ingredients.
It has just three ingredients: organic tapioca maltodextrin, whey protein concentrate, and micellar casein (aka casein protein, a slow-release version of protein).
Naked Mass has no artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors.
Don’t get twisted, just because this entry is last on our list, doesn’t mean it can’t be first on yours. In the world of weight gainers, Naked Mass by Naked always manages to stand out, especially for those on the hunt for a vegan mass gainer. Unlike other weight gainers that often rely on dairy-based ingredients, Naked Mass offers both vegan and non-vegan flavors, catering to a broader audience.
The flavor range is versatile, with options like Unflavored, Vanilla, and Chocolate, and their vegan counterparts: Unflavored (vegan), Vanilla (vegan), and Chocolate (vegan). What’s more, the sweetening agent is organic coconut sugar, a natural alternative that complements the product’s clean-label approach. Plus, each serving gives you a nice 50 grams of protein.
Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or just seeking a wholesome mass gainer, Naked Mass is a top choice.
Don’t just take our word for it, here’s what a verified buyer had to say:
“My son used this to gain 30 lbs. for football. He thinks it tastes great! I appreciate that it is free of dairy!” – Paul, May 2023.
Key Ingredients:
- Calories: 1250
- Protein: 50 g
- Carbohydrates: 252 g
- Fat: 2.5 g
- Protein source: Whey protein concentrate, Micellar casein
- Sweetener: Unsweetened, Organic coconut sugar
Are Mass Gainer Supplements Necessary?
Although mass gainers can be a convenient way to bulk up, they aren’t strictly necessary. The gold standard (pardon the pun) for nutrition will always be real food. Preparing meals at home using natural ingredients often proves to be more cost-effective than investing in weight gainer powders.
For people who are lactose-intolerant or those who simply prefer lactose-free options, there are plenty of food choices. Nuts, peanut butter, and almond milk are fantastic for quick snacks. Eggs, coconut oil, and lactose-free yogurt can be breakfast staples.
And for hearty meals? Chicken, pork, beef, and rice are not only rich in protein but also great sources of calories. In short, while mass supplements can be a useful addition to your diet, they should only complement, not replace, a balanced intake of whole foods.
What To Look For When Buying A Mass Gainer
Flavor
Taste matters, especially when you’re making a long-term, and often pricey, commitment to a supplement. You’ll find that the best-tasting mass gainer doesn’t just focus on muscle gains, it’ll also be formulated to ensure you enjoy every sip. After all, you’ll be more consistent with a product you genuinely relish.
Although familiar flavors can be a safe bet, don’t shy away from exploring new ones. Dive into customer reviews and see what the masses (pun intended!) are raving about. Whether it’s a classic chocolate or an experimental, fruity blend, find a flavor that makes your taste buds dance.
Know your goals
Before you even start exploring either protein powders or mass supplements, it’s vital to outline your objectives. How many additional calories are you aiming to consume daily? The composition of these calories is equally important.
If you’re on a protein-centric regimen, ensure your chosen mass gainer aligns with that. But, if you’re open to a carb-heavy formula, there are plenty of options out there. It doesn’t even matter what brand you’re planning on going with, aligning the product with your goals ensures you’re gaining weight and doing it right.
Consider the source of carbohydrates
Carbs are essential in mass gainers, but their source can impact your health differently. For those wary of insulin spikes, opt for mass gainers that get their carbs from low glycemic index sources like whole grain brown rice or oatmeal.
Watch out for maltodextrin! It’s a common carb in many mass gainers that provides quick energy but has a high glycemic index that can cause significant insulin spikes. This can be very concerning for people with diabetes or insulin resistance. Always scrutinize the ingredient list and ensure the carb sources align with your health needs.
Mass Gainer Benefits
Convenience
In our fast-paced lives, convenience is king. Enter mass gainers. These power-packed supplements are a godsend for those struggling to meet their daily caloric needs. Think about it: instead of preparing multiple meals or snacks to hit your calorie targets, a single serving of a mass gainer can provide a significant chunk of your daily requirements.
Whether you’re rushing to work, hitting the gym, or simply on the go, mass gainers are your quick fix. No more missing out on essential nutrients or scrambling for a meal. With brands like Transparent Labs and Naked offering top-notch products, achieving your muscle mass goals has never been more convenient.
Easy
Let’s face it, not everyone’s a chef or has the time to whip up protein-rich meals daily. That’s where mass gainers shine. They’re incredibly easy to prepare. Just scoop, mix with water or milk, shake, and you’re good to go! No cooking, no lengthy prep, and definitely no waiting. Plus, with brands making mass gainers in flavors like chocolate peanut butter, it’ll feel like you’re indulging in a treat.
So, whether you’re a newbie to the muscle-building journey or a seasoned gym rat, mass gainers offer an easy and delicious way to ensure you’re fueling your body right.
You know the exact macros of what you’re consuming
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to nutrition. One of the main benefits of mass gainers is the clarity they can give you. The lengthy nutrition labels can give you a precise breakdown of the protein, carbs, fats, and calories in every scoop. So, no more guessing games or rough estimates.
Whether you’re going for a caloric surplus for weight gain or tracking your protein intake for muscle building, mass gainers take the mystery out of the equation.
For example, brands like Transparent Labs and Naked are known to provide detailed nutritional information, ensuring you’re in full control of your diet. In the journey of building muscle and gaining weight, knowing your macros is pretty much half the battle won.
How To Take A Weight Gainer Supplement
Once you settle on a suitable mass gainer, your next worry might be how exactly you need to take it. Here’s your guide on how to take a weight gainer supplement effectively:
While there’s talk about the ideal time to consume protein, don’t sweat the small stuff. An extensive meta-analysis revealed that whether you gulp down your protein shake an hour before or after hitting the gym, it doesn’t significantly impact muscle strength or growth. The key? Consistently consuming enough protein daily.
To keep tabs on your intake, use a macro tracker. You’ll also need a tool to calculate your Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE). Once you’ve got that number, aim to consume 300 to 500 calories above it daily for sustainable weight gain. Aim for around 0.7 grams of protein for every pound of your lean body mass. For example, if you weigh 100 pounds with 15% body fat, that’s 85 pounds of lean mass.
If you’re on a bulking mission, mix your mass gainer with 16 oz of whole milk. This combo adds a whopping 300 calories and 16 grams of protein in each serving. Want more? Boost your shake with coconut oil, raw honey, or nut butter. But if packing on some lean muscle is your goal, without the general weight gain, go for 16 oz of skim milk as your go-to mixer. Happy bulking!
FAQs
Do mass gainers taste nice?
Mass gainers have come a long way in the flavor department. Gone are the days of chalky shakes, today’s mass gainers are a treat to the palate. Brands like Crazy Nutrition and Kaged have upped the ante, offering a range of unique flavors. So, yes, many mass gainers nowadays are surprisingly tasty.
Does mass gainer increase size?
100%, if used correctly, you can put on some decent size with a mass gainer. Mass gainers are designed to help you gain weight by giving you a convenient caloric surplus. They’re packed with pretty much all the protein, carbs, and fats you’ll need to make gains. When combined with a proper workout routine, they can significantly boost muscle mass.
But, it’s not just about the calories per serving, it’s also about the quality of those calories and how they aid in healthy weight gain.
Is whey protein better than mass gainer?
It depends on your goals. Whey protein is mainly for muscle recovery and lean growth, with fewer calories. And then there are mass gainers, which are calorie-dense shakes aimed at helping you gain weight. If you’re looking to build muscle without much weight gain, whey protein might be your pick. But for those chasing serious mass, a serious mass gainer product is the way to go.
It’s all about your individual needs. For example, there may be mass gainers more suitable for women than men. Trying to decide between the two is why many people opt for mass gainer protein powders, which are pretty much down the middle.
What are the side effects of mass gainers?
Although most mass gainers have a lot of benefits, they can come with some potential side effects. One of the major ones to worry about is consuming more calories than you burn, which can lead to fat gain. Also, some people might experience digestive issues, bloating, or an upset stomach, especially if taken in large quantities.
It’s important to choose a mass gainer with clean ingredients and to follow the recommended serving size.
Can I take a mass gainer without working out?
You can, but it’s probably not the best idea. Mass gainers give you a significant amount of calories per every serving. Without working out, those extra calories might not be used for building muscle and will be stored as fat. For optimum results and muscle mass, it’s best to pair your mass gainer intake with a consistent workout routine. Stay active, and let’s get those gains!
Conclusion
Although Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer and Naked Mass put up a good fight, Transparent Labs’ Mass Gainer emerges as the undisputed champion in taste. This product ticks all the boxes: it’s a super mass gainer that offers a balanced protein powder blend, ensuring serious mass gains.
When compared to others, its flavor profile is second to none, its ingredient transparency is commendable, and its nutrient ratio is spot-on for muscle growth.
However, Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer, with its great consistency, and Naked Mass, with its vegan-friendly options, are close contenders. While each product has its ups, for those seeking the ultimate taste experience, Transparent Labs is the top pick.
