Best Weight Gainer for Skinny Guys (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed
If you’re a naturally skinny guy struggling to build muscle mass despite eating everything in sight, weight gainers offer a strategic solution to your calorie deficit. These high-calorie supplements deliver 500-1,500 calories per serving with optimal ratios of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it significantly easier to maintain the caloric surplus necessary for muscle growth without feeling constantly bloated or forcing down massive meals throughout the day.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
- Best Overall: Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass — proven formula with 1,250 calories
- Best Value: Dymatize Super Mass Gainer — excellent macros at great price
- Best Premium: Naked Mass — clean ingredients with 1,360 calories
Quick Comparison
| Product | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass | 1,250 | 50g | 252g | Maximum calories |
| Dymatize Super Mass Gainer | 1,280 | 52g | 245g | Best value |
| Naked Mass Chocolate | 1,360 | 50g | 252g | Clean ingredients |
| MuscleTech Mass Tech Extreme | 1,000 | 60g | 168g | Higher protein ratio |
| Mutant Mass Triple Chocolate | 1,060 | 56g | 182g | Multi-phase protein |
| Naked Vegan Mass | 1,230 | 50g | 248g | Plant-based option |
| BSN True Mass 1200 | 1,230 | 50g | 222g | Taste variety |
| Optimum Gold Standard Gainer | 700 | 53g | 109g | Lean mass building |
| Muscle Milk Pro Series Gainer | 650 | 32g | 109g | Ready-to-drink option |
| Redcon1 MRE Meal Replacement | 530 | 47g | 75g | Whole food sources |
1. Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass — Best Overall
- HIGH CALORIE WEIGHT GAINER: More than 1,200 calories per 2-scoop serving
- 50 grams of blended protein per 2-scoop serving
- Over 250 grams of carbohydrates per 2-scoop serving
- With over 20 vitamins and minerals including Vitamin C and Zinc to provide immune support
- MORE VERSATILITY: Using an electric blender, add fresh or frozen fruits, peanut butter, nuts, and other calorie dense foods to boost your weight gain potential
Optimum Nutrition delivers the gold standard in mass gainers with 1,250 calories and 50 grams of protein per serving at an accessible price point.
This proven formula combines whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, and calcium caseinate for sustained amino acid release. Each serving provides 252 grams of carbohydrates from maltodextrin for rapid glycogen replenishment, plus 1 gram of creatine monohydrate and 10.7 grams of BCAAs to support muscle growth. The mix includes 25 vitamins and minerals including vitamin C and zinc for immune support. Available in chocolate, vanilla, banana, strawberry, and cookies & cream flavors.
What We Like
- 1,250 calories per serving for substantial surplus
- 50g complete protein from multiple sources
- Includes creatine and BCAAs for recovery
- Well-priced for the calorie density
What Could Be Better
- Maltodextrin may spike blood sugar
- Large serving size can be filling
Bottom Line: The most reliable and affordable mass gainer on the market, trusted by skinny guys worldwide for consistent weight gain results.
2. Dymatize Super Mass Gainer — Best Value
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Dymatize packs 1,280 calories and 52 grams of protein per serving with excellent macros and competitive pricing.
This gainer features a blend of whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, and calcium caseinate for complete amino acid coverage. With 245 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of creatine monohydrate, it provides serious fuel for muscle growth. The 10.7 grams of BCAAs support recovery and prevent muscle breakdown. Each 6-pound container delivers 8 servings in gourmet vanilla or rich chocolate flavors.
What We Like
- Highest protein at 52g per serving
- 1,280 calories for aggressive bulking
- Includes creatine and BCAAs
- Great taste in both flavors
What Could Be Better
- Only 8 servings per container
- Higher price per serving than some
Bottom Line: Superior protein content with maximum calories makes this ideal for skinny guys needing aggressive weight gain support.
3. Naked Mass Chocolate — Best Premium
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Naked Mass delivers clean, all-natural ingredients with 1,360 calories and zero artificial additives.
This GMO-free, gluten-free, and soy-free formula uses only grass-fed whey protein concentrate and organic maltodextrin with natural cocoa. The 8-pound bulk bag provides 11 servings of pure nutrition without artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors. Third-party tested by Eurofins Scientific and manufactured in CGMP-certified facilities, it ensures quality and purity.
What We Like
- Highest calories at 1,360 per serving
- Clean, minimal ingredient list
- Grass-fed whey protein source
- Third-party tested for quality
What Could Be Better
- Premium price reflects quality
- Natural cocoa flavor less sweet
Bottom Line: The best choice for skinny guys prioritizing clean, natural ingredients without compromising on calorie density.
4. MuscleTech Mass Tech Extreme 2000 — Best Higher Protein
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MuscleTech delivers 60 grams of protein in 1,000 calories for those prioritizing lean muscle over pure mass.
This formula uses 100% whey protein with no inferior proteins, providing superior amino acid profiles. With 168 grams of carbohydrates and added creatine monohydrate, it supports both energy and strength gains. The enhanced recovery formula includes specific vitamins and minerals optimized for muscle building. Available in vanilla milkshake and triple chocolate brownie flavors.
What We Like
- 60g protein highest on this list
- Lower carbs support leaner gains
- 100% whey protein formula
- Includes creatine for strength
What Could Be Better
- Lower total calories at 1,000
- May need more for extreme hardgainers
Bottom Line: Perfect for skinny guys who want to prioritize protein intake and minimize fat gain during bulking phases.
5. Mutant Mass Triple Chocolate — Best Multi-Phase Protein
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Mutant Mass combines fast, medium, and slow-digesting proteins for sustained amino acid delivery throughout the day.
This 15-pound bag delivers 56 grams of multi-phase protein including whey concentrate, whey isolate, milk protein concentrate, and micellar casein. With 1,060 calories and 182 grams of carbohydrates per serving, it provides substantial nutrition without overwhelming your digestive system. The triple chocolate flavor includes actual chocolate pieces for indulgent taste.
What We Like
- Multi-phase protein for extended release
- 56g protein from quality sources
- 1,060 calories manageable for most
- Large 15lb bag for bulk buyers
What Could Be Better
- Chocolate flavor very sweet for some
- Large bag requires storage space
Bottom Line: Excellent choice for skinny guys wanting sustained protein delivery and serious bulk purchasing value.
6. Naked Vegan Mass — Best Plant-Based
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Naked delivers 1,230 calories and 50 grams of plant-based protein for vegan skinny guys.
This certified vegan formula uses pea protein, brown rice protein, and organic carbohydrates sweetened with coconut sugar. The 8-pound bag provides 11 servings completely free from GMOs, gluten, and soy. Third-party tested and manufactured in CGMP-certified facilities, it maintains the same quality standards as Naked’s whey products.
What We Like
- 1,230 calories from plant sources
- 50g complete plant protein blend
- Certified vegan and allergen-free
- Sweetened with coconut sugar
What Could Be Better
- Plant protein texture different from whey
- Higher price than dairy options
Bottom Line: The top vegan mass gainer providing serious calories and protein without animal products or artificial ingredients.
7. BSN True Mass 1200 — Best Taste Variety
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BSN offers 1,230 calories with superior taste in multiple flavors using quality protein sources.
This formula combines ultra-premium protein sources including whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, calcium caseinate, and egg albumin. With 50 grams of protein and 222 grams of carbohydrates from maltodextrin, it provides fast-digesting nutrition post-workout. Available in chocolate milkshake, vanilla ice cream, cookies & cream, and strawberry milkshake flavors.
What We Like
- 1,230 calories with premium proteins
- Excellent taste across all flavors
- Fast-digesting post-workout formula
- Multiple flavor options prevent boredom
What Could Be Better
- Higher fat content at 16g per serving
- Maltodextrin may cause bloating
Bottom Line: Best for skinny guys who prioritize taste and need variety to maintain consistency with their gainer routine.
8. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pro Gainer — Best Lean Mass
No products found.
Optimum’s leaner formula delivers 700 calories with 53 grams of protein for quality muscle gain.
This gainer emphasizes protein over carbohydrates with 53 grams of premium whey protein and only 109 grams of carbs. The reduced calorie count (700 vs 1,200+) makes it ideal for those wanting controlled weight gain or who already eat substantial meals. Includes digestive enzymes to reduce bloating and improve nutrient absorption.
What We Like
- 53g protein for lean muscle focus
- Lower 700 calories easier to digest
- Digestive enzymes reduce bloating
- Better protein-to-carb ratio
What Could Be Better
- Lower calories insufficient for extreme hardgainers
- Higher price per calorie
Bottom Line: Perfect for skinny guys who want quality lean mass without excessive calories or carbohydrate loading.
9. Muscle Milk Pro Series Gainer — Best Ready-to-Drink
No products found.
Muscle Milk provides convenient ready-to-drink format with 650 calories and 32 grams of protein.
This shake requires zero preparation—just grab and drink. The 20g of protein per 14-ounce serving comes from milk protein concentrate and calcium caseinate. With 109 grams of carbohydrates, it provides substantial calories in portable bottles. The creamy texture and authentic vanilla flavor make it easy to consume regularly.
What We Like
- Zero preparation required
- Convenient for on-the-go nutrition
- 650 calories in portable bottle
- Great taste without mixing
What Could Be Better
- Lower protein at 32g per serving
- Significantly higher cost per serving
Bottom Line: Best for busy skinny guys who need convenient nutrition without access to blenders or shaker bottles.
10. Redcon1 MRE Meal Replacement — Best Whole Food
No products found.
Redcon1 uses real whole food sources delivering 530 calories and 47 grams of animal-based protein.
This unique formula derives protein from beef, salmon, chicken, egg, and brown rice rather than whey concentrate. The carbohydrates come from sweet potato, oats, and yams instead of maltodextrin. With 75 grams of complex carbs and minimal added sugars, it provides clean nutrition that digests more like actual food than traditional gainers.
What We Like
- Whole food protein sources
- Complex carbohydrates from real foods
- 47g protein from animal sources
- Minimal stomach discomfort
What Could Be Better
- Lower 530 calories needs supplementing
- Won’t digest as quickly as whey
Bottom Line: The cleanest mass gainer option for skinny guys prioritizing whole food nutrition over maximum calorie density.
How to Choose the Best Weight Gainer for Skinny Guys
Start by calculating your daily calorie needs and current intake to determine your deficit. Most skinny guys need an extra 500-1,000 calories daily to gain weight steadily. Choose gainers providing appropriate calories per serving—extreme hardgainers may need 1,200+ calorie servings, while those with moderate appetites might prefer 600-800 calorie options they can consume multiple times daily. Consider whether you’ll use the gainer as a meal replacement or supplement to existing meals.
Protein content matters significantly for muscle building versus simple weight gain. Look for at least 40-50 grams of complete protein per serving from quality sources like whey isolate, whey concentrate, or casein. Check the protein type—whey digests quickly for post-workout recovery, while casein provides sustained amino acid release. Skinny guys focused on lean muscle should prioritize higher protein-to-carb ratios, while those wanting maximum mass can accept more carbohydrates.
Carbohydrate sources determine how quickly the gainer digests and impacts blood sugar. Maltodextrin-based gainers digest rapidly, making them ideal post-workout when you need fast glycogen replenishment. However, they may cause bloating or blood sugar spikes in sensitive individuals. Whole food carbohydrate sources like oats, sweet potato, or quinoa digest more slowly and cause less digestive discomfort, though they provide fewer calories per serving. Consider your tolerance and timing needs.
Additional ingredients can enhance results or cause problems depending on your needs. Creatine monohydrate (1-5g per serving) supports strength gains and muscle volumization. BCAAs accelerate recovery and prevent muscle breakdown. Digestive enzymes like lactase, protease, and amylase reduce bloating and improve nutrient absorption—crucial for those prone to stomach discomfort. Avoid gainers with excessive added sugars (over 15g per serving) as these provide empty calories without nutritional benefits.
Taste and mixability determine whether you’ll actually use the gainer consistently. Read reviews carefully about flavor accuracy, sweetness levels, and texture. Some gainers mix thick and creamy while others remain thin and chalky. Consider starting with smaller containers or variety packs to test flavors before committing to large bulk purchases. The best gainer is worthless if the taste prevents you from drinking it regularly.
Benefits of Weight Gainer Supplements for Skinny Guys
Weight gainers solve the fundamental challenge skinny guys face: consuming enough calories without constant eating. Drinking 1,000-1,500 calories takes 5-10 minutes versus hours of meal preparation and consumption. This convenience factor dramatically increases the likelihood of maintaining the caloric surplus necessary for muscle growth. The liquid format also empties from the stomach faster than solid food, allowing you to eat regular meals sooner without feeling perpetually stuffed.
The strategic protein and carbohydrate combinations in mass gainers optimize muscle protein synthesis and glycogen replenishment. Post-workout timing becomes effortless—consume your gainer within 30-60 minutes of training to take advantage of the anabolic window when muscles are primed for nutrient uptake. The fast-digesting carbohydrates spike insulin, which drives amino acids into muscle cells for repair and growth. This hormonal environment is difficult to achieve with whole food meals alone.
Consistency becomes significantly easier with weight gainers in your arsenal. Skinny guys often struggle with appetite fluctuations, meal timing, and preparation fatigue. Having a reliable 1,000+ calorie shake available removes decision-making and reduces the mental burden of constant eating. This consistency over weeks and months drives the cumulative calorie surplus that translates into actual weight gain on the scale and muscle mass in the mirror.
The concentrated nutrient delivery supports recovery and training frequency. With adequate calories and protein from gainers, your body can repair muscle damage faster and replenish energy stores completely. This allows you to train more frequently with better performance, creating more opportunities for muscle growth. Many skinny guys discover they were undertraining simply because inadequate nutrition prevented full recovery between sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do weight gainers really work for skinny guys?
Yes, weight gainers work when combined with progressive resistance training and consumed consistently. They provide concentrated calories that create the surplus necessary for muscle growth without requiring you to eat massive quantities of solid food. Research confirms that caloric surplus plus adequate protein (1.6-2.2g per kg body weight) significantly enhances muscle mass gains when combined with resistance training. However, gainers alone without training will primarily cause fat gain rather than muscle development.
How much weight can I gain per month using mass gainers?
Realistic weight gain targets range from 2-4 pounds per month for skinny guys, with beginners potentially gaining up to 6 pounds monthly in their first 3-6 months of training. Faster gains typically include more fat than muscle. Weight gainers help achieve this by providing 500-1,000 extra daily calories beyond your maintenance needs. Actual results depend on training intensity, protein intake, sleep quality, and genetic factors affecting muscle-building potential.
Should I take weight gainer every day or just workout days?
Take weight gainers daily, including rest days, to maintain consistent caloric surplus. Muscle growth occurs during recovery periods, not just during training. However, you might adjust serving sizes—full servings on training days for post-workout nutrition, smaller servings on rest days if you eat larger whole food meals. Some people use gainers as meal replacements on busy days regardless of training schedule.
Can weight gainers cause fat gain instead of muscle?
Yes, excessive calories from weight gainers without resistance training will cause primarily fat gain. Even with training, consuming too many calories (over 1,000 surplus daily) leads to unfavorable muscle-to-fat ratios. Aim for moderate surpluses (500-750 calories) combined with progressive overload training. Monitor your waist measurement alongside body weight—if your waist increases faster than your weight, reduce gainer serving sizes.
What’s better for skinny guys: weight gainer or protein powder?
Weight gainers are better for skinny guys struggling to eat enough calories, as they provide 1,000+ calories per serving versus 120-150 in protein powder. However, if you already eat adequate calories but need more protein, regular protein powder works better and costs less per serving. Many skinny guys benefit from using both—protein powder for quick protein boosts, weight gainer for substantial calorie increases.
When should I drink my weight gainer shake?
The most effective times are post-workout (within 60 minutes of training) and between meals when you need extra calories but don’t want to feel too full for your next meal. Some people drink half servings twice daily rather than one massive shake. Avoid drinking gainers immediately before bed unless using slow-digesting casein formulas, as large servings may disrupt sleep quality.
Do I need to eat regular meals if I’m using weight gainers?
Yes, weight gainers should supplement regular meals, not replace them entirely. Whole foods provide fiber, micronutrients, and phytonutrients that gainers can’t fully replicate. Aim for 3-4 solid meals daily plus 1-2 gainer shakes. This approach provides better overall nutrition and helps develop sustainable eating habits for long-term muscle maintenance after you reach your goal weight.
Will weight gainers cause digestive problems or bloating?
Many people experience bloating, especially with maltodextrin-based gainers or large serving sizes. Start with half servings to assess tolerance, then gradually increase. Look for gainers with digestive enzymes (lactase, protease, amylase) that improve breakdown and absorption. Spreading consumption throughout the day rather than drinking 1,500 calories at once reduces digestive stress. Consider whole food-based gainers if you’re particularly sensitive.
