Top 15 best gainers: rating for 2026

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4.9 / 5

Gainer is commonly used in strength training to help build muscle mass.

It is a combination of carbohydrates and protein, providing the body with the necessary energy and materials for muscle fiber growth. However, there is a wide variety of gainers available, which can make choosing one difficult.

This rating compiles the best gainers to consider purchasing in 2026, based on feedback from both buyers and coaches. Each product is evaluated according to numerous criteria.

1. How to Choose a Gainer?
2. Review of Gainer Manufacturers
3. Best Gainers for 2026

1. Top Price/Quality Gainers for 2026
2. Best High-Carbohydrate Gainers
3. Best Low-Carb Gainers

How to choose a gainer?

When considering which gainer to purchase in 2026, it is advisable to pay attention to the following characteristics:

1. Type. Typically, a high-carbohydrate gainer is preferred for "cutting" or a high-protein gainer is better for individuals who want to build muscle mass without the need for further reduction.
2. Type of protein. The ideal choice is a multi-component gainer, which includes both whey and casein. However, the choice depends on the specific goal. For muscle building, whey is more suitable. Casein is digested slower and is more appropriate when it is difficult to adequately replenish the body’s protein balance over a longer period of time.
3. There are different dietary properties offered by gainers, such as being gluten-free or not containing aspartame and other sweeteners. The decision about which gainer to choose depends on individual preferences.

What firm of gainer to choose? Review of manufacturers

To this day, the leading makers of top-notch gainers include the following brands:

• BSN, a renowned American label of sports nutrition, has been in operation since 2001;
• Optimum Nutrition, a sports nutrition brand possessed by Glanbia (specializing in cheese production);
• RLine, a sports nutrition maker based in St. Petersburg, Russia;
• Ultimate Nutrition, one of the oldest American firms producing sports nutrition;
• BioTechUSA, an American firm established in 1999, now a global conglomerate;
• QNT, a European company with its headquarters in Brussels;
• Olimp Sport Nutrition, sports nutrition from a Polish firm, belongs to the budget class;
• Since 2008, Be First has been active in the production of sports nutrition in Russia;
• Geneticlab Nutrition, a relatively young company based in St. Petersburg, is also a player in the Russian sports nutrition market;
• MoodBooster is a Russian company specializing in the manufacturing of sports nutrition;
• Junior Athlete is a trademark owned by Sovremennye Nauchnye Tekhnologii, a Russian company;
• Sovremennye Nauchnye Tekhnologii also owns the Ironman brand in Russia.

Ranking of the best gainers by price/quality for 2026

Number	Model	Advantages	Average price	Best Price
1	Mutant Mass	One of the most affordable high-protein weight gainers on the market	2 799 ₽	Discover the price
2	Ultimate Nutrition Muscle Juice Revolution	Inexpensive yet provides a large serving of carbohydrates	3 890 ₽	Discover the price
3	RLine Light Mass	A high-carbohydrate, sweetener-free, gluten-free weight gainer	1 680 ₽	Discover the price
4	Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass	Impossible to counterfeit, contains multivitamin complexes	4 430 ₽	Discover the price
5	BSN True-Mass 1200	Premium weight gainer, suitable for mass gain for all individuals	7 533 ₽	Discover the price

Ranking of the best high-carbohydrate gainers

№	Model	Benefits	Average price	Best Price
1	First Gainer Fast & Slow Carbs	Inexpensive gainer with B-complex vitamins	949 ₽	Check the price
2	Olimp Sport Nutrition Gain Bolic 6000	A premium gainer, great for girls.	1,450 ₽	Check the price
3	QNT 3000 Muscle Mass	Vegetarian gainer with no animal ingredients	2,450 ₽	Check the price
4	BioTechUSA Muscle Mass	Highly digestible protein at the heart of the formula	2,450 ₽	Check the price
5	RLine Titan Creatine	An ultra-budget beginner’s gainer	3,790 ₽	Check the price

Ranking of the best budget gainers

№	Model	Benefits	Average price	Best Price
1	IRONMAN Turbo Mass	All-purpose, composition includes 3 types of carbohydrates and 2 types of proteins	593 ₽	Check price
2	Junior Athlete Protein #2 with Creatine	Milk-based protein gainer suitable for beginners	1 156 ₽	Check price
3	MoodBooster Mass Gainer	One of the most affordable gainers with a very high calorie content	589 ₽	Check price
4	GIANT MASS	Vegetarian and non-GMO	599 ₽	Check price
5	Geneticlab Nutrition Mass Gainer	A budget-friendly gainer that contains omega-3 fatty acids	2 157 ₽	Check price

Ranking of the best gainers by price/quality for 2026

5th place. BSN True-Mass 1200

Back 1 of 5 Forward Referring to the high-end gainers, this product stands out due to its superior calorie content per serving, making it ideal for individuals struggling with muscle mass gain during regular training sessions.

Each serving contains a whopping 391 kilocalories of energy, providing enough fuel for intense workouts. Additionally, it contains a blend of multi-component proteins that are digested slowly over several hours following strenuous exercise.

Furthermore, the manufacturer has developed a formula that minimizes the strain on the digestive system, allowing individuals with gastrointestinal issues to safely consume this gainer.

Available in various weight options and with five distinct flavors, there is an option suitable for everyone’s preferences.

Characteristics

• premium weight gainer, offers mass gain for all individuals;
• category: high-carbohydrate;
• type of protein: multi-component;
• caloric content: 391 kcal;
• dietary characteristics: free of aspartame.

Video Review

Benefits:

• Powerful impact;
• Composition includes multi-component protein;
• No sweeteners added;
• Easily dissolvable.

Drawbacks:

• Expensive;
• The taste might not appeal to everyone;
• Designed for individuals requiring a high-calorie diet.

4th place. Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass

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The primary feature of this gainer is its incorporation of a comprehensive multivitamin complex. Its foundation consists of 250 grams of carbohydrates in a standard package. One-fifth of the mixture is composed of a multicomponent protein. Included in its vitamin composition are vitamins D, E, K, as well as a complete range of B-group vitamins, which are essential for rapid muscle mass gain.

Available in various weight options, this product also offers neutral flavors in addition to the "standard" selection of sweet and fruity flavors. It mixes quite well, although it does have a limited shelf life after opening the vacuum-sealed packaging.

As such, it is recommended for those who are thoroughly focused on gaining muscle mass and do not skip their training sessions. The price may be on the higher side, but the manufacturer provides numerous measures to protect against purchasing counterfeit products (by regularly updating these measures).

• The product is impossible to duplicate, as it includes a mix of essential vitamins;
• Category: high in carbs;
• Protein type: made up of multiple components;
• Caloric value: 374 kcal;
• Dietary properties: enriched with a diverse multivitamin complex.

Video Review

Pros:

• Contains essential vitamins
• High in carbohydrates
• Contains a diverse range of proteins
• Has a neutral taste

Cons:

• Short shelf life of only 6 months after opening
• Not compatible with milk
• Difficult to mix well

3rd place. RLine Light Mass

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A gainer that is high in carbohydrates and has whey protein added. This variant is suitable for regular use and is available in very large packs. It can be used for both strength training and cardio workouts.

The carbohydrates in this gainer are a combination of simple and complex carbohydrates, making it ideal for those who engage in long strength training sessions to stay in shape. It naturally helps with muscle mass gain, but it is still recommended to supplement with multicomponent protein complexes.

This gainer does not contain aspartame or gluten. However, according to reviews, it can put a considerable strain on the digestive tract. Therefore, it is recommended to consume fiber-rich products during the period of intake.

Additionally, consuming fermented milk products can help with faster recovery of the stomach and duodenal mucous membrane.

• A gluten-free high-carbohydrate gainer without any sweeteners;
• This product is categorized as high-carbohydrate;
• The protein source in this product is whey;
• Each serving of this gainer contains 387 kcal;
• It is worth mentioning that this product is free from aspartame and gluten.

Video Review

Benefits:

• Perfect for daily consumption;
• Combination of both simple and complex carbohydrates;
• Comes in large packaging;
• Has a long shelf life even after opening.

Drawbacks:

• Taste – not preferred by everyone, disliked by many;
• Low protein content;
• Inadequate vitamin content.

2nd place. Ultimate Nutrition Muscle Juice Revolution

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An explosive boost of energy can be obtained within 10-15 minutes by consuming one of the most effective "carbohydrate" gainers. With a calorie count of 408 kcal per serving, it provides an impressive amount of fuel. Each serving contains approximately 80 grams of carbohydrates and 17.5 grams of protein.

In addition to its nutritional value, this gainer also includes a blend of vitamins and minerals. It stands out for its inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote healthy metabolic processes and enhance brain function.

This product is particularly suitable for individuals engaged in mental work. It is available in various sizes, including 5-kilogram buckets, and is competitively priced (approximately 2 times cheaper than American counterparts with similar characteristics).

• This food option is not expensive, yet it offers a substantial amount of carbohydrates;
• Classification: high in carbohydrates;
• Protein composition: made up of multiple components;
• Energy value: 408 kcal;
• Dietary characteristics: rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

Video Review

Pros:

• Contains omega-3;
• Rich in minerals and vitamins;
• High in calories;
• Has versatile uses.

Cons:

• May have counterfeit products;
• Can only be mixed with water and skim milk;
• Contains sweeteners.

1 place. Mutant Mass

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An affordable high-protein weight gainer. Each serving contains 52 grams of a multi-component protein, making it ideal for beginners in strength training who want to quickly build muscle mass.

Although slightly lower in energy value compared to other similar products, each serving provides 392 calories, which is sufficient for short-term strength training sessions. It can be easily mixed and is available in large 6.5-kilogram buckets.

The major advantage of this gainer is its affordable price, which is a key factor contributing to its popularity. Customers have no complaints about its effectiveness. It can be considered a versatile option that allows for a reduction in protein intake.

• one of the most affordable gainers with high protein content;
• category: high-protein;
• protein composition: multi-component;
• caloric value: 392 kcal;
• dietary properties: does not contain aspartame.

Video Review

Advantages:

• Protein is emphasized;
• Low cost;
• Available in very large quantities;
• Pleasant taste.

Disadvantages:

• Does not mix well;
• Contains mostly complex carbohydrates;
• Minimal amount of vitamins.

Ranking of the best high-carbohydrate gainers

5th place. RLine Titan Creatine

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An ideal option for quickly building muscle mass, this high-carbohydrate gainer offers a unique twist. It features a combination of simple, complex, and medium-digesting carbohydrates to ensure optimal performance during any type of training, whether it’s focused on strength, cardio, or simple exercises for maintaining overall fitness.

In addition to its versatile carbohydrate blend, this gainer also provides two types of protein – whey protein as the base, along with the inclusion of casein protein. This diverse protein profile helps support muscle growth and recovery.

What sets this gainer apart is its composition. It is free from aspartame, sugars, and lactose, making it easy on the digestive system. Plus, it contains a vitamin complex to further support overall health.

While this gainer is affordable, it is most recommended for beginners who are experimenting with sports nutrition in this category. It mixes well and offers a wide range of delicious flavors to choose from.

• Affordable option for beginners in terms of cost;
• This is a high-carbohydrate type of gainer;
• The protein content consists of multiple components;
• It provides 400 kcal per serving;
• This product is free from aspartame, sweeteners, and lactose.

Video Review

Pros:

• Very affordable price;
• A wide range of flavors to choose from;
• Easy to mix;
• Gentle on the digestive system.

Cons:

• Not very efficient;
• Low protein percentage;
• Low vitamin content.

4th place. BioTechUSA Muscle Mass

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The protein being offered here is a multi-component one, with a base of "free amino acids". These amino acids are quickly absorbed during strength training, making it suitable for individuals who want to rapidly build a small amount of muscle mass and achieve a leaner physique.

The price of this protein is very affordable, but it does contain preservatives and sweeteners. As a result, there have been some complaints in reviews about negative effects on the gastrointestinal tract.

To counteract this potential negative effect, it is recommended to mix the protein powder with skim milk or other fermented milk products. This mixing method helps to minimize any negative impact while still maintaining its affordable cost.

In addition, the protein also includes glutamine peptides, which enhance the absorption of amino acids and the protein base. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who struggle with traditional training methods to effectively gain muscle mass.

• The main ingredient in the formula is a highly digestible protein.
• This is a high-carbohydrate type of formula.
• The protein in this formula is a combination of multiple components.
• Each serving of this formula provides a caloric value of 367 kcal.
• This formula does not contain aspartame, but it does contain preservatives with dietary properties.

Video Review

Benefits:

• affordable price;
• high protein digestibility;
• contains glutamine peptides;
• enjoyable taste.

Drawbacks:

• includes preservatives;
• some complaints regarding gastrointestinal impact;
• relatively low calorie content per serving.

3rd place. QNT 3000 Muscle Mass

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An high-carbohydrate gainer with an "unexpected" amount of vitamins and protein. As stated by many experienced weightlifters, it is considered one of the most well-balanced compositions. Suitable for individuals who are already actively involved in strength training and require more than just basic nutrition to fuel their workouts.

This gainer also falls into the "vegetarian" category, meaning that the protein source is primarily derived from soy-based whey protein. Its digestibility is moderate, so it may not be the optimal choice for those looking to effectively build muscle mass.

Characteristics

• A vegetarian gainer that does not contain any animal-based components;
• This gainer is classified as high-carbohydrate;
• It contains whey protein;
• The calorie content is 398 kcal;
• It does not contain aspartame and is enriched with vitamins, although it does contain preservatives.

Video Review

Benefits:

• Reasonable cost;
• Extended shelf life;
• Suitable for vegetarians;
• Free from gluten.

Drawbacks:

• The protein is not of high-quality;
• Contains preservatives;
• Available only in small packages.

2nd place. Olimp Sport Nutrition Gain Bolic 6000

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A high-quality gamer with a high carbohydrate content. This product is free from preservatives, antibiotics, and sweeteners. The optimal balance of carbohydrates to protein is 75:25. It also contains a comprehensive range of vitamins and minerals.

One downside is its high price. The composition does not include antibiotics or chlorine. The shelf life is 2 years, but once the package is opened, it is recommended to consume the contents within 6 months.

In addition, it contains a generous amount of folic acid, which is particularly beneficial for female athletes. It helps shape the body and build muscle mass relatively quickly.

Characteristics

• ideal gainer for females;
• category: high-carbohydrate blend;
• protein blend: multi-component;
• energy content: 384 kcal;
• dietary features: free from aspartame, antibiotics, chlorine, preservatives.

Video Review

Pros:

• Free from harmful additives;
• Rich in folic acid;
• Gentle on the digestive system;
• Extremely easy to mix.

Cons:

• Expensive;
• Presence of counterfeit products in the market;
• Limited range of flavors.

1st place. Be First First Gainer Fast & Slow Carbs

• First out of four
• What sets this gainer apart is that it is entirely plant-based, with a protein base that is entirely plant-based. It doesn’t contain any antibiotics, chlorine, or gluten. While there are preservatives, they are designed to have a minimal impact on the gastrointestinal tract. The protein used is whey protein.
• The formula also includes B-group vitamins, which help normalize hormone production, including both testosterone and estrogen. This makes it great for women who are actively involved in strength training. The most popular flavor is cocoa. What’s interesting is that it uses concentrated powder without a fatty base.
• At the same time, the gainer has a final calorie content of 384 kcal per 110 grams of prepared portion. It mixes well with both water and milk (non-fat pasteurized milk is recommended). The price is average, but it becomes more affordable when purchasing larger packages.
• affordable weight gainer with B-complex vitamins;
• classification: high-carbohydrate;
• protein: whey;
• calories: 384 kcal;
• Dietary properties: free from aspartame, antibiotics, and chlorine, enriched with B-vitamins.

Video Review

Advantages:

• Contains a rich blend of essential vitamins
• Perfect for individuals following a vegetarian diet
• Specially formulated to meet the needs of women
• Helps regulate hormone production

Disadvantages:

• Only contains whey protein as its source of protein
• Includes preservatives in its composition
• Limited selection of available flavors

Ranking of the best budget gainers

5th place. Geneticlab Nutrition Mass Gainer

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This vegetarian gainer is universal and contains simple carbohydrates as its main component. As a result, it provides a quick burst of energy for subsequent strength training. Additionally, it is enriched with vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids.

The amount of preservatives in this gainer is minimal, making it suitable for individuals with gastrointestinal issues. It is available in both 1 kg and 5 kg packaging options, with no change in average price.

For those who want to assess its effectiveness before committing to a larger quantity, there is the option to purchase the smaller package. While it does not contain aspartame or sweeteners, it does contain artificial flavor additives, which can be seen as the only significant drawback. This gainer is suitable for daily consumption, as well as for post-workout recovery after intense training sessions.

• This is a budget-friendly option that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids;
• It falls under the category of high-carbohydrate foods;
• Comprised of a multi-component protein;
• Contains 391 kcal per serving;
• Does not contain aspartame and is considered a good dietary option.

Video Review

Pros:

• Reasonable price;
• A wide range of package options by weight;
• Includes omega-3 fatty acids;
• Contains relatively safe preservatives.

Cons:

• Contains flavorings;
• Limited variety of vitamins in the composition;
• Inconvenient packaging.

4th place. GIANT MASS

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A complex of carbohydrates including multiple ingredients and free from GMOs is featured in this product. It is suitable for vegetarians as it only contains whey protein, extracted directly from soy and its derivatives. One notable aspect of this product is the inclusion of "prebiotic fibers" which aid in regulating metabolic processes.

Specifically, it aids in lipid metabolism. Therefore, individuals who desire to shed excess weight without putting in excessive training effort can benefit from this gainer. It is also gluten-free.

The carbohydrates in this product are complex, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. It easily mixes with water and milk, including full-fat milk. The taste is pleasant and does not have a strong aroma from flavorings, unlike gainers from other manufacturers.

• Vegetarian, non-GMO;
• Type: high-carbohydrate;
• Protein type: whey;
• Caloric value: 367 kcal;
• Dietary properties: free from aspartame, gluten, and prebiotic fiber in the composition.

Video Review

Advantages:

• It has an affordable price;
• It is suitable for beginner athletes;
• It normalizes metabolic processes;
• It promotes rapid fat loss.

Disadvantages:

• Counterfeits may occur;
• It has a low caloric content;
• The composition predominantly contains complex carbohydrates.

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Marketed as a men’s high-carbohydrate gainer, this product contains minimal vitamins and instead focuses on minerals and carbohydrates. Each serving provides a substantial 420 kcal. It is exclusively sold in soft packaging, highlighting its affordable price point.

This product is free of gluten, GMOs, antibiotics, and chlorine. While it does contain some preservatives, a special formula has been chosen to prevent irritation of the digestive tract.

Due to its high carbohydrate content, it is advisable to consult a trainer before consuming to determine the optimal dosage for individual body parameters. It is only available in a plain, unsweetened flavor without any additional additives. The taste may not be to everyone’s liking, but the product’s effectiveness is evident.

Characteristics

• one of the most cost-effective bulking supplements with an exceptionally high calorie content;
• category: high in carbohydrates;
• protein type: whey;
• calorie content: 420 kcal;
• dietary properties: free from aspartame, artificial flavors, and sweeteners.

Video Review

Advantages:

• Minimal use of harmful additives;
• Neutral taste;
• Affordable price;
• Free from gluten and GMOs.

Disadvantages:

• Unpleasant taste;
• Only available in soft packaging;
• Contains preservatives.

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Positioned as a product for novice athletes who are currently learning strength training and not pushing themselves "to the limit". This product is primarily focused on its protein content. The protein used is milk-based (casein), which is easily digestible and digested slowly.

Although this gainer is not suitable for vegetarians, it is recommended for those who are not yet ready for intense strength training. It is available in chocolate flavor and is offered in both bags and cans. The packaging includes a convenient measuring spoon, allowing users to accurately determine their optimal serving size.

This particular gainer is an ideal option for individuals who are new to sports nutrition and are looking to assess their body’s reaction to such products. The composition does not include any preservatives, coloring agents, or sweeteners. However, as a result, the shelf life is relatively short, lasting only 12 months from the production date.

Characteristics

• A beginner’s protein gainer with a milk base.
• Type: high in carbohydrates.
• Protein type: derived from milk.
• Caloric value: 365 kcal.
• Dietary properties: contains no aspartame, sweeteners, or preservatives.