- Our Top Picks for Mass Supplements
- 1. Best Overall Mass Supplement: Nutricost Mass Gainer Cookies N Cream (6.9 lbs)
- 2. Best Creatine Support for Muscle Strength: Nutricost Creatine Monohydrate Micronized Powder (500g)
- 3. Best Multi-Source Creatine Formula: Natures Craft High Strength Tri Phase Creatine Tablets (240 Tablets)
- 4. Best Advanced Muscle Performance Formula: The Genius Brand Genius Muscle (Strawberry Vanilla, 30 Servings)
- What Are Mass Supplements?
- Benefits of Mass Supplements
- Who Should Use Mass Supplements?
- Key Ingredients in High-Quality Mass Supplements
- How to Choose the Best Mass Supplements
- How to Use Mass Supplements Effectively
- Common Mistakes When Using Mass Supplements
- FAQ
- Final Note
Building muscle and gaining healthy weight can be surprisingly difficult for many people. While some individuals gain weight easily, others struggle to consume enough calories to support muscle growth, especially when they train frequently or have a fast metabolism.
Mass supplements, commonly called mass gainers or weight gainer supplements, are designed to solve this problem. These products provide a concentrated source of calories, protein, carbohydrates, and recovery nutrients in an easy-to-consume shake. Instead of preparing multiple large meals every day, you can quickly increase your daily calorie intake with a well-formulated mass supplement.
For athletes, bodybuilders, and active individuals trying to increase muscle mass, mass supplements can play a valuable role in supporting training performance, recovery, and overall weight gain.
In this guide, we will explain how mass supplements work, their benefits, how to choose the right formula, and what to look for when evaluating the best mass supplements on the market.
Our Top Picks for Mass Supplements
1. Best Overall Mass Supplement: Nutricost Mass Gainer Cookies N Cream (6.9 lbs)
Why? Provides a powerful combination of high calories and 50 grams of protein per serving, making it ideal for individuals looking to increase muscle mass and body weight efficiently. The formula is non-GMO and designed for athletes and hard gainers who need a convenient way to boost daily calorie intake.
Key Benefits: Supports muscle growth, increases calorie intake for weight gain, and helps improve post-workout recovery.
Best for: Athletes, bodybuilders, and hard gainers who need a high-calorie, high-protein supplement to support muscle growth and healthy weight gain.
2. Best Creatine Support for Muscle Strength: Nutricost Creatine Monohydrate Micronized Powder (500g)
- Why? Delivers 5 grams of pure micronized creatine monohydrate per serving with 100 servings per container. Creatine is one of the most researched supplements for improving strength, power, and muscle performance during resistance training.
- Key Benefits: Enhances strength, increases muscle power, improves workout performance, and supports muscle growth when combined with training.
- Best for: Individuals who want to enhance muscle strength and training performance alongside a mass-gaining nutrition strategy.
3. Best Multi-Source Creatine Formula: Natures Craft High Strength Tri Phase Creatine Tablets (240 Tablets)
- Why? Combines three forms of creatine—creatine monohydrate, creatine HCL, and creatine pyruvate—to support improved absorption, endurance, and muscle recovery. The tablet format provides convenient dosing without the need to mix powders.
- Key Benefits: Supports muscle mass development, enhances endurance and strength, and promotes faster recovery after intense workouts.
- Best for: Gym-goers and athletes who want a convenient creatine supplement designed to support muscle growth and workout performance.
4. Best Advanced Muscle Performance Formula: The Genius Brand Genius Muscle (Strawberry Vanilla, 30 Servings)
- Why? Features a non-hormonal muscle support formula that combines performance ingredients with organic mushrooms to support endurance, recovery, and muscle performance without stimulants. Naturally sweetened and designed for clean supplementation.
- Key Benefits: Supports muscle growth, enhances endurance, improves workout recovery, and promotes overall muscle health.
- Best for: Athletes seeking a stimulant-free muscle performance supplement that supports strength, endurance, and recovery.
| Rank | Product | Form | Price per Count | Highlight | Key Benefits | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1️⃣ | Nutricost Mass Gainer Cookies N Cream (6.9 lbs) | Powder | $1.50/serving | Best Overall Mass Supplement | High-calorie formula, 50g protein per serving, supports muscle growth and weight gain | Hard gainers and athletes needing a calorie-dense mass gainer |
| 2️⃣ | Nutricost Creatine Monohydrate Micronized Powder (500g) | Powder | $0.18/serving | Best Creatine for Strength Support | Improves strength, power output, and muscle performance | Gym-goers wanting to increase strength and training intensity |
| 3️⃣ | Natures Craft Tri Phase Creatine Tablets (240ct) | Tablet | $0.12/tablet | Best Multi-Source Creatine Formula | Supports muscle mass, endurance, and faster recovery | Users wanting convenient creatine tablets with multiple creatine forms |
| 4️⃣ | The Genius Brand Genius Muscle (30 servings) | Powder | $1.33/serving | Best Advanced Muscle Performance Formula | Supports endurance, muscle growth, and recovery with a stimulant-free formula | Athletes seeking a clean performance and muscle support supplement |
1. Best Overall Mass Supplement: Nutricost Mass Gainer Cookies N Cream (6.9 lbs)
Price: Price not available
Nutricost Mass Gainer Cookies N Cream is a high-calorie weight gainer designed for individuals who want to increase muscle mass and body weight efficiently. Each serving provides 50 grams of protein and around 1,300 calories when mixed with water, making it suitable for hard gainers and athletes with high calorie needs.
The formula combines whey protein concentrate, carbohydrates, creatine monohydrate, and L-glutamine to support muscle growth, recovery, and workout performance. It is manufactured in a GMP-compliant, NSF-certified facility, non-GMO, and independently tested for quality.
With its large 6.9 lb container and Cookies N Cream flavor, it offers a convenient way to add calories and protein to a daily diet without preparing multiple high-calorie meals.
Key Benefits
• Provides 50g of protein per serving to support muscle growth and recovery
• Delivers over 1,300 calories per serving, ideal for weight gain and bulking phases
• Includes creatine monohydrate and L-glutamine to support strength and recovery
• High carbohydrate content helps replenish glycogen after workouts
• Convenient shake format for increasing calorie intake quickly
Key Ingredients
• Whey Protein Concentrate – 50g per serving
Supports muscle repair and muscle protein synthesis after workouts.
• Carbohydrate Blend (Maltodextrin-based) – 258g per serving
Provides fast-digesting energy and increases calorie intake to support weight gain.
• Creatine Monohydrate – 2,500 mg
Helps improve strength, power output, and training performance.
• L-Glutamine – 2,500 mg
Supports muscle recovery and may help reduce muscle breakdown.
Pros
• Very high calorie content for effective weight gain
• Includes creatine and glutamine for muscle performance
• Good flavor according to many users
• Large container size with dense servings
• Manufactured in GMP and NSF-certified facilities
Cons
• Large serving size may be difficult for some users to consume
• Contains maltodextrin and added sugars
• Only 9 servings per container due to large scoop size
Customer Feedback
Taste
Many customers report that the Cookies N Cream flavor tastes surprisingly good for a mass gainer and mixes well compared to other high-calorie powders.
Quality
Users generally describe the product as high quality, noting that Nutricost supplements are reliable and consistent. Some customers mention it blends well and feels like a premium product.
Effectiveness
Several users say the product helped them gain weight when combined with regular workouts and adequate training.
Digestive Experience
Experiences vary. Some users report no bloating, while others find the serving size quite large and occasionally difficult to digest if mixed with too little liquid.
Best Suited For
• Hard gainers who struggle to consume enough calories
• Bodybuilders during a bulking phase
• Athletes needing high-calorie recovery nutrition
• Individuals looking for a convenient calorie-dense shake
Usage Recommendations
Mix 3 scoops with 24 oz of water or milk once daily, preferably after workouts or between meals to increase total calorie intake.
Because the serving size is large, some users may prefer to split the serving into two smaller shakes during the day to improve digestion.
Using milk instead of water can increase calories further and improve taste.
Summary:
Nutricost Mass Gainer Cookies N Cream is a calorie-dense weight gainer delivering 50g of protein and over 1,300 calories per serving, making it an excellent option for hard gainers and athletes in a bulking phase. With added creatine and glutamine, it supports muscle growth, strength, and recovery, although the large serving size may require adjustment for easier digestion.
2. Best Creatine Support for Muscle Strength: Nutricost Creatine Monohydrate Micronized Powder (500g)
Price: Price not available
Nutricost Creatine Monohydrate Micronized Powder is a simple yet highly effective supplement designed to support strength, muscle growth, and athletic performance. Each serving delivers 5 grams of micronized creatine monohydrate, the most researched and widely used form of creatine in sports nutrition.
The micronized form improves mixability and absorption compared to standard creatine powders. With 500 grams per container and 100 servings, it offers a long-lasting supply for athletes who want consistent creatine supplementation to support their training.
This creatine powder contains no additional ingredients, making it suitable for users who prefer a clean and straightforward formula. It can be easily mixed with water, juice, or protein shakes.
Key Benefits
• Provides 5g of pure creatine monohydrate per serving to support strength and muscle power
• Helps improve exercise performance, endurance, and muscle recovery
• Micronized formula improves mixability and absorption
• Contains 100 servings per container, offering excellent long-term value
• Flavorless powder can be added to protein shakes, smoothies, or water
Key Ingredients
• Creatine Monohydrate (Micronized) – 5g per serving
Supports ATP production in muscle cells, which helps increase strength, power output, and high-intensity exercise performance.
Pros
• Pure creatine monohydrate with no fillers or additives
• Micronized powder mixes easily in drinks
• Excellent price per serving
• Large container with 100 servings
• Vegetarian-friendly supplement
Cons
• Unflavored powder may have a mild chalky taste for some users
• Some users report it may not fully dissolve in cold water
• Requires consistent daily use to see full benefits
Customer Feedback
Quality
Many customers praise the product’s purity and consistency, describing it as a reliable creatine supplement that delivers solid results.
Effectiveness
Users frequently report improvements in workout performance, strength gains, and better muscle pumps after several weeks of use.
Creatine Quality
Customers often mention that the powder feels pure and effective, helping them increase training intensity and muscle endurance.
Mixability
Most users say the creatine mixes well with water or protein shakes, although some report slight residue at the bottom of the glass.
Muscle Growth
Some reviewers report noticeable improvements in strength and muscle growth when combining the supplement with regular weight training.
Taste
Since the powder is unflavored, many users appreciate that it does not significantly affect the taste of other drinks. However, a few reviewers mention a slight aftertaste when mixed with plain water.
Best Suited For
• Strength athletes and bodybuilders
• Gym-goers looking to increase power and endurance
• Individuals adding creatine to their mass gain or muscle-building routine
• Users who want a simple, pure creatine supplement
Usage Recommendations
Mix 1 scoop (5g) daily with water, juice, or a protein shake. Creatine can be taken either before or after workouts, depending on personal preference.
For optimal results, take creatine consistently every day and maintain adequate hydration. Some athletes prefer to take it post-workout along with protein and carbohydrates to support recovery.
Summary:
Nutricost Creatine Monohydrate Micronized Powder offers a pure, high-quality creatine formula with 5g per serving and 100 servings per container. Its micronized form improves mixability, while the simple ingredient profile makes it a reliable choice for athletes seeking improved strength, endurance, and muscle performance.
3. Best Multi-Source Creatine Formula: Natures Craft High Strength Tri Phase Creatine Tablets (240 Tablets)
Price: Price not available
Nature’s Craft Tri-Phase Creatine Tablets offer a convenient alternative to traditional creatine powders. Instead of mixing drinks or shakes, users can simply take tablets to support muscle growth, strength, and workout performance.
This formula combines three forms of creatine — creatine monohydrate, creatine HCl, and creatine pyruvate — designed to support muscle energy production, recovery, and endurance during workouts. The multi-source approach may help improve creatine absorption while supporting sustained performance.
Each bottle contains 240 tablets, providing up to a 60-day supply depending on the dosage used. This format is particularly appealing for people who prefer portable supplements or dislike mixing powders.
With a 4.4-star rating from more than 1,100 reviews, the supplement is widely appreciated for its effectiveness and convenience.
Key Benefits
• Tri-phase creatine blend designed to support strength, endurance, and muscle recovery
• Convenient tablet format eliminates the need for mixing powders
• Supports ATP energy production for improved workout performance
• Helps promote lean muscle growth and post-workout recovery
• Large 240-tablet bottle provides extended use
Key Ingredients
Creatine Monohydrate
The most widely studied form of creatine that helps increase muscle strength, power output, and exercise performance.
Creatine HCl (Hydrochloride)
Known for improved solubility and potential digestive comfort compared with standard creatine powders.
Creatine Pyruvate
May help support endurance and cellular energy production during high-intensity exercise.
Pros
• Multi-form creatine formula for broader performance support
• Convenient tablet format for travel and daily use
• Supports both muscle growth and workout recovery
• Positive feedback on effectiveness and results
• Suitable for both men and women
Cons
• Tablets are relatively large and may be difficult for some users to swallow
• Higher cost per serving compared with basic creatine powders
• Requires multiple tablets per serving
Customer Feedback
Quality
Customers frequently describe the product as high quality, noting that the tablets feel well-made and deliver consistent results.
Effectiveness
Many users report improvements in strength, endurance, and workout energy after several weeks of consistent use.
Ease of Use
The tablet format is widely appreciated for convenience, especially for people who do not want to mix powders or carry shaker bottles.
Creatine Quality
Users often mention that the tri-phase creatine blend feels effective and comparable to traditional creatine powder supplements.
Muscle Building
Several reviewers report increased muscle gains, improved workout intensity, and faster recovery between training sessions.
Energy Boost
Some customers report experiencing increased workout stamina and sustained energy levels during training.
Tablet Size
The most common complaint is that the tablets are fairly large, which may make them difficult to swallow for some users.
Best Suited For
• Athletes who prefer creatine tablets instead of powders
• Gym-goers looking for a portable creatine supplement
• Individuals focused on muscle growth, endurance, and recovery
• Users who want a multi-form creatine formula
Usage Recommendations
Take 4 tablets with fruit juice once or twice daily, either before or after exercise. Some users prefer to cycle the supplement, using it for 4–6 weeks followed by a short break.
Staying well-hydrated during creatine supplementation is recommended to support optimal muscle performance and recovery.
Summary:
Nature’s Craft Tri-Phase Creatine Tablets provide a convenient creatine solution with a blend of three creatine forms to support strength, muscle growth, and endurance. While the tablets are larger than typical supplements, the portable format and effective formula make this a solid option for users who prefer creatine in pill form.
4. Best Advanced Muscle Performance Formula: The Genius Brand Genius Muscle (Strawberry Vanilla, 30 Servings)
Price: Price not available
What Are Mass Supplements?
Mass supplements are high-calorie nutritional formulas designed to help individuals gain weight and build muscle more efficiently.
Unlike standard protein powders, mass gainers typically contain a combination of:
• Protein for muscle repair and growth
• Carbohydrates to increase calorie intake and energy availability
• Fats for additional calories and hormonal support
• Vitamins and minerals for metabolic support
• Performance ingredients such as creatine or amino acids
A single serving of a mass supplement can provide anywhere from 400 to over 1,200 calories, depending on the formula.
This makes them particularly useful for people who:
• Struggle to gain weight
• Have very high calorie needs
• Train intensely and require rapid recovery
• Do not have time to prepare multiple meals
Instead of forcing yourself to eat large portions of food, a mass gainer shake can quickly deliver a significant number of calories in a convenient format.
Benefits of Mass Supplements
Mass supplements offer several advantages for individuals trying to increase muscle mass and body weight.
Supports Healthy Weight Gain
One of the biggest challenges for hard gainers is simply eating enough calories each day. Mass supplements provide a convenient way to increase calorie intake without feeling overly full.
By adding one or two shakes daily, many users can increase their calorie intake by 500 to 1,000 calories or more.
Promotes Muscle Growth
Most mass gainers contain high-quality protein sources such as whey protein concentrate, whey isolate, or casein. These proteins supply essential amino acids that stimulate muscle protein synthesis after workouts.
Combined with resistance training, this increased protein intake can help support lean muscle growth.
Improves Workout Recovery
Many formulas include ingredients that assist with recovery, such as:
• Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)
• Creatine monohydrate
• Glutamine
• Electrolytes
These ingredients may help reduce muscle fatigue and improve recovery between training sessions.
Provides Convenient Nutrition
Preparing multiple high-calorie meals every day can be time-consuming. Mass supplements offer a practical alternative, allowing users to quickly consume a nutrient-dense shake after workouts or between meals.
For busy individuals, this convenience can make it much easier to maintain a calorie surplus.
Who Should Use Mass Supplements?
Mass supplements are not necessary for everyone, but they can be very helpful for certain groups of people.
Hard Gainers
Some individuals naturally burn calories very quickly and struggle to gain weight. These people often benefit the most from mass supplements because they help increase daily calorie intake without excessive meal preparation.
Athletes and Bodybuilders
Strength training and intense workouts significantly increase energy demands. Mass supplements can help athletes replenish glycogen stores and support muscle recovery after training.
Individuals with High Calorie Needs
People who train multiple times per day, participate in endurance sports, or perform physically demanding jobs may require higher calorie intake than average.
Mass gainers can help meet these increased nutritional needs.
People With Busy Lifestyles
Preparing frequent high-calorie meals is not always practical. A mass gainer shake provides a convenient solution for individuals who need extra calories but have limited time to cook.
Key Ingredients in High-Quality Mass Supplements
Not all mass supplements are created equal. Some formulas rely heavily on cheap sugars and low-quality proteins, while others provide balanced nutrition designed to support lean muscle gain.
Understanding the key ingredients can help you choose a better product.
Protein Sources
Protein is essential for building muscle tissue. High-quality mass gainers typically include proteins such as:
• Whey protein isolate
• Whey protein concentrate
• Casein protein
• Milk protein isolate
Some formulas may also include plant-based proteins for individuals who prefer dairy-free options.
Carbohydrate Sources
Carbohydrates provide the majority of calories in many mass gainers. However, the quality of the carbohydrate source matters.
Better formulas use complex carbohydrates such as:
• Oat flour
• Sweet potato powder
• Brown rice powder
• Maltodextrin combined with fiber sources
Lower-quality products may rely primarily on simple sugars, which can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar.
Healthy Fats
Some mass supplements include healthy fats to increase calorie density while supporting hormone production. Common sources include:
• Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT oil)
• Flaxseed powder
• Coconut oil powder
These fats provide long-lasting energy and help increase overall caloric intake.
Performance Ingredients
Certain mass gainers include additional ingredients designed to enhance athletic performance and recovery.
These may include:
• Creatine monohydrate
• BCAAs
• Glutamine
• Beta-alanine
• Digestive enzymes
Digestive enzymes can be particularly helpful because large servings of mass gainers may sometimes cause bloating in sensitive individuals.
How to Choose the Best Mass Supplements
Selecting the right mass supplement depends on your goals, metabolism, and training intensity.
Here are some important factors to consider when evaluating different products.
Check the Protein Content
A good mass supplement should contain a meaningful amount of protein per serving. Many quality formulas provide between 25 and 60 grams of protein.
Higher protein content generally supports better muscle growth.
Evaluate the Calorie Density
If you struggle significantly with weight gain, you may benefit from a higher calorie formula. However, if you prefer lean muscle gain, a moderate calorie product may be a better choice.
Look at the Protein-to-Carbohydrate Ratio
Some mass gainers contain extremely high carbohydrate levels compared to protein. While this may increase calories, it can also lead to unnecessary fat gain.
Balanced formulas typically provide a more favorable protein-to-carbohydrate ratio.
Avoid Excessive Sugar
Certain products contain large amounts of added sugars to increase calorie counts. While carbohydrates are important, excessive sugar intake may not be ideal for long-term health.
Choosing formulas with more complex carbohydrates can help support sustained energy levels.
Consider Digestibility
Large servings of mass gainers can sometimes cause digestive discomfort. Products that include digestive enzymes or fiber may be easier to tolerate.
How to Use Mass Supplements Effectively
Using mass supplements correctly can make a significant difference in achieving your fitness goals.
Post-Workout Nutrition
One of the best times to consume a mass gainer is after a workout. During this period, your body is primed to absorb nutrients and replenish glycogen stores.
The combination of protein and carbohydrates helps support recovery and muscle growth.
Between Meals
Many users also take mass supplements between meals to increase daily calorie intake without feeling overly full.
This approach is particularly helpful for people who struggle to eat large meals.
Before Bed
Some individuals prefer taking a smaller serving of mass gainer before bed to maintain a positive calorie balance overnight.
However, very large servings late at night may cause digestive discomfort for some people.
Mixing Options
Mass supplements can be mixed with:
• Water for a lighter shake
• Milk for additional calories and protein
• Nut butter or fruit for even more nutrients
Blending a shake with ingredients such as bananas, oats, or peanut butter can significantly increase calorie content.
Common Mistakes When Using Mass Supplements
Even high-quality supplements may not produce the desired results if used incorrectly.
Relying on Mass Gainers as Meal Replacements
Mass supplements should complement a balanced diet rather than replace whole foods entirely.
Whole foods provide important nutrients that supplements cannot fully replicate.
Ignoring Total Calorie Intake
Simply taking a mass gainer does not guarantee weight gain. You still need to maintain a calorie surplus overall.
Tracking daily calorie intake can help ensure consistent progress.
Choosing Extremely High Sugar Formulas
Some products achieve high calorie counts primarily through sugar. While this may increase energy intake, it may not support optimal body composition.
Balanced formulas with quality ingredients are usually a better long-term choice.
FAQ
What is the difference between a mass gainer and protein powder?
Protein powders mainly provide protein to support muscle repair, while mass gainers contain additional carbohydrates and calories designed to promote weight gain.
How long does it take to see results from mass supplements?
Many users begin to notice weight gain within two to four weeks when combining mass supplements with consistent resistance training and a calorie surplus.
Can mass supplements cause fat gain?
If calorie intake significantly exceeds energy expenditure, some fat gain may occur. Combining mass gainers with strength training can help maximize lean muscle growth.
Are mass supplements safe for beginners?
Yes, most healthy individuals can safely use mass supplements when following recommended serving sizes. However, beginners should start with smaller servings to assess tolerance.
Do mass gainers replace meals?
Mass supplements are best used as a supplement to a balanced diet rather than a complete replacement for whole meals.
Final Note
Mass supplements can be an effective tool for individuals who struggle to gain weight or want to increase muscle mass more efficiently. By providing a convenient source of calories, protein, and performance nutrients, these products help support training, recovery, and overall muscle growth.