Best Bodybuilding Supplements for Mass in 2025

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August 24, 2025

Building muscle mass isn’t just about lifting heavy, it’s also about giving your body the fuel and nutrients it needs to grow. Even the best workout program won’t deliver results if your diet is lacking in protein, calories, and recovery support. That’s where bodybuilding supplements come in.

In this guide, our Fitness Expert team reviews the top supplements for muscle mass in 2025, explains what makes them effective, and helps you choose the right one for your bodybuilding journey.

Why Supplements Matter for Muscle Mass

When you’re trying to bulk up, your body needs:

  • Calorie Surplus → More calories than you burn.
  • High-Quality Protein → For muscle repair and growth.
  • Carbs for Energy → Fuel your workouts and aid recovery.
  • Creatine & Amino Acids → Boost strength, power, and endurance.

The problem is, eating enough whole foods to hit these goals can be tough. Mass gainers, whey protein, and specialized blends make it easier to consistently hit your daily targets.

A muscular person drinking a protein shake from a shaker bottle after a workout.

Types of Bodybuilding Supplements for Mass

Mass Gainer Powders

High-calorie blends packed with protein, carbs, and sometimes creatine. Ideal for hard gainers or anyone who struggles to eat enough.

Whey Protein Powders

Lean muscle builders. Great for post-workout recovery and supporting protein intake without too many extra calories.

Vegan Protein Powders

Plant-based alternatives for lifters who prefer non-dairy options. Many now rival whey in protein quality and digestibility.

Performance Boosters (Creatine, BCAAs, etc.)

Often included in mass gainers or available separately. Support muscle performance, energy, and faster recovery.

Best Bodybuilding Supplements for Mass in 2025

ImageProductDetails  Price
Optimum Nutrition Serious MassOptimum Nutrition Serious Mass1,250+ calories

50g protein + creatine

250g carbs
Check
Price
Muscletech Whey Protein (Vanilla Cream)Muscletech Whey Protein (Vanilla Cream)30g protein

Fast absorption

Great taste
Check
Price
MuscleTech High Protein Mass GainerMuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer1,500 calories

60g protein + BCAAs

With creatine
Check
Price
NAKED Vegan MassNAKED Vegan Mass1,230 calories

50g plant protein

Clean, no additives
Check
Price
Transparent Labs Whey IsolateTransparent Labs Whey Isolate28g protein

Grass-fed source

No artificial ingredients
Check
Price
Mutant Mass GainerMutant Mass Gainer1,100+ calories

56g protein

BCAAs + EAAs
Check
Price
Rival Nutrition Clean GainerRival Nutrition Clean Gainer560 calories

30g protein

Clean carbs & fats
Check
Price
Dymatize Super Mass GainerDymatize Super Mass Gainer1,280 calories

52g protein

With vitamins & minerals
Check
Price
Huel Black EditionHuel Black Edition40g plant protein

Nutrient-dense

Low-carb formula
Check
Price
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard WheyOptimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey24g protein

Fast absorbing

Lean muscle support
Check
Price

Top 10 Picks – Reviews

1. Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass, Weight Gainer Protein Powder with Creatine

Best For: Hard gainers who struggle to eat enough calories.

Rating: 9.4/10

Reason: Delivers over 1,250 calories per serving, plus creatine and glutamine, making it one of the most effective bulking supplements on the market.

Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass

Product Overview:

Serious Mass is a legendary supplement in bodybuilding circles. With 50g of protein, 250g of carbs, and added vitamins, it’s designed to help skinny lifters finally break through their calorie barriers. It also includes creatine, which enhances strength gains during training.

Expert Review:

At Fitness Tips Expert, we found this product extremely effective for mass-building phases. It mixes best with a blender (rather than a shaker), and while it’s not the leanest gainer, it’s unbeatable for those who simply can’t get calories in from food alone.

Pros & Flexibility:

Cons & Potential Flaws:

  • Very high in carbs and sugar—can cause fat gain if not careful.
  • Heavy shakes may feel too filling for some.
  • Requires a blender for best texture.

How to Use for Weight Loss:

While it’s mainly for bulking, you can adapt it for lean muscle by taking half servings post-workout to aid recovery without going into a massive calorie surplus.

2. Muscletech Whey Protein Powder (Vanilla Cream, 4 Pound)

Best For: Lean muscle growth without excessive calories.

Rating: 9.2/10

Reason: Pure whey concentrate + isolate blend, excellent for recovery and daily protein intake.

Muscletech Whey Protein (Vanilla Cream)

Product Overview:

Muscletech Whey Protein is designed for athletes who want high-quality protein without the extra bulk of mass gainers. Each scoop delivers about 24g of protein with minimal carbs and fat.

Expert Review:

We used this as a post-workout shake and noticed quick digestion and no bloating. It’s budget-friendly, tastes great, and works perfectly for lifters aiming to add lean size or maintain muscle during a cut.

Pros & Flexibility:

  • Affordable and widely available.
  • 24g of high-quality protein per scoop.
  • Fast-digesting—ideal post workout.
  • Good for both bulking and cutting.

Cons & Potential Flaws:

  • No added extras like creatine or enzymes.
  • May feel basic compared to premium isolates.
  • Artificial flavoring in some blends.

How to Use for Weight Loss:

Replace a snack with a protein shake to curb cravings while staying in a calorie deficit.

3. MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer for Men & Women

Best For: Balanced mass gain without extreme sugar spikes.

Rating: 9/10

Reason: Delivers 820 calories, 60g protein, and clean carb sources per serving, making it a controlled but effective bulking tool.

MuscleTech High Protein Mass Gainer

Product Overview:

Unlike traditional mass gainers that overload with sugar, this formula uses oat powder and other complex carbs to provide steady energy. With 10g of creatine and BCAAs included, it’s a complete strength and size support supplement.

Expert Review:

Our team liked this product because it didn’t feel overly heavy, and the steady carb release meant better workouts. It’s ideal for lifters who want to bulk without adding unnecessary fat.

Pros & Flexibility:

  • Cleaner carb sources (oats, quinoa, etc.).
  • Includes creatine & BCAAs.
  • 60g of protein per serving.
  • Less sugar compared to Serious Mass.

Cons & Potential Flaws:

  • Still calorie dense—watch portion sizes.
  • Flavor options are limited.
  • Can clump without a blender.

How to Use for Weight Loss:

Use half a serving post workout to support muscle retention while in a calorie deficit.

4. NAKED Vegan Mass – Natural Vegan Weight Gainer Protein Powder

Best For: Vegan lifters needing plant-based mass support.

Rating: 9.2/10

Reason: Made with pea and rice protein plus natural carbs like organic tapioca and sweet potato, this is a clean vegan-friendly option.

NAKED Vegan Mass

Product Overview:

Each serving provides 1,230 calories, 50g of protein, and 248g of carbs—all from plant-based sources. It has no artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners, appealing to clean eaters.

Expert Review:

We tested this during a plant-based diet challenge and found it digestible and effective. The flavor is earthy rather than dessert-like, but it blends well with almond milk and fruit.

Pros & Flexibility:

  • 100% vegan and natural.
  • No artificial additives.
  • High calorie & protein content.
  • Great for plant-based athletes.

Cons & Potential Flaws:

  • More expensive than whey-based gainers.
  • Taste is not as sweet as traditional gainers.
  • May require a blender for smoothness.

How to Use for Weight Loss:

Blend half scoops with fruit and almond milk for a balanced, nutrient-dense shake without going over calories.

5. Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

Best For: Clean, lean protein without fillers.

Rating: 9.6/10

Reason: Sourced from 100% grass-fed cows, free from artificial sweeteners, and third-party tested for purity.

Transparent Labs Whey Isolate

Product Overview:

This whey isolate delivers 28g of protein, 0g fat, and 1g carb per serving. It’s one of the cleanest proteins on the market—ideal for those who want to build lean muscle without unnecessary additives.

Expert Review:

At Fitness Tips Expert, we loved this supplement for its digestibility and transparency. No bloating, no hidden ingredients just pure, high-quality protein that mixes easily in water or milk.

Pros & Flexibility:

  • Grass-fed source = higher quality protein.
  • Very low carb and fat—great for cutting.
  • Naturally flavored and sweetened with stevia.
  • Third-party tested for purity.

Cons & Potential Flaws:

  • More expensive than regular whey.
  • Limited flavor options.
  • Not a calorie-dense gainer (better for lean growth).

How to Use for Weight Loss:

Perfect as a meal replacement protein or to hit daily protein goals while staying in a calorie deficit.

6. Mutant Mass Weight Gainer Protein Powder

Best For: Serious lifters aiming for extreme mass gain.

Rating: 9.4/10

Reason: High-calorie formula with 1,100–1,200 calories per serving, 50g protein, and a mix of complex carbs for sustained energy.

Mutant Mass Gainer

Product Overview:

Mutant Mass is designed for hard gainers and athletes with high daily caloric needs. Its blend of whey, casein, and milk protein ensures both immediate and slow-digesting protein for long-lasting muscle support. Added creatine and glutamine further enhance recovery and growth.

Expert Review:

In our daily fitness testing, we found Mutant Mass perfect for post-workout recovery and late-night shakes. Its thick consistency might require a blender, but the results are worth it—users reported significant size gains over 6–8 weeks when combined with consistent strength training.

Pros & Flexibility:

  • Massive calorie content per serving.
  • Multi-protein blend for short- and long-term amino release.
  • Contains creatine and glutamine for recovery.
  • Multiple flavors available for variety.

Cons & Potential Flaws:

  • Thick texture needs a blender.
  • High calorie may cause fat gain if not monitored.
  • Pricier than basic gainers.

How to Use for Mass Gain:

Take 1–2 servings post workout or between meals. For leaner gains, split servings throughout the day to avoid fat accumulation.

7. Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer – Chocolate Fudge, 5lbs

Best For: Lifters seeking a clean, moderate-calorie gainer.

Rating: 9/10

Reason: Uses clean carb sources like oat and potato starch with 30g protein and moderate calories per serving great for controlled bulking.

Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer

Product Overview:

Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer avoids artificial colors, fillers, and high sugar content. It’s a balanced approach for those who want to gain mass without unnecessary fat gain.

Expert Review:

Our team appreciated its digestibility and smooth texture. Unlike traditional mass gainers, this formula is easier on the stomach and suitable for people who are sensitive to high sugar or lactose.

Pros & Flexibility:

  • Clean ingredients, no fillers.
  • Moderate calorie and protein content.
  • Chocolate fudge flavor is enjoyable.
  • Digestible even with sensitive stomachs.

Cons & Potential Flaws:

  • Less calorie-dense than some competitors.
  • Limited flavors.
  • Not ideal for extremely fast mass gain.

How to Use for Mass Gain:

Blend with milk or water between meals for a calorie boost. Can be paired with a pre- or post-workout protein shake for optimal muscle growth.

8. Dymatize Super Mass Gainer Protein Powder

Best For: Hard gainers and professional athletes needing high-calorie shakes.

Rating: 9.2/10

Reason: Provides 1,280 calories, 52g protein, and 250g carbs per serving, plus vitamins and minerals for overall recovery.

Dymatize Super Mass Gainer

Product Overview:

Super Mass Gainer is a classic high-calorie formula. Its multi-protein blend includes whey concentrate, whey isolate, and casein to fuel muscles immediately and over time. Complex carbs supply steady energy, making it ideal for intense training days.

Expert Review:

We found this gainer effective for rapid size gain when combined with a structured lifting program. It’s thick, so mixing with a blender is recommended. Users reported noticeable strength and mass improvements within 6–8 weeks.

Pros & Flexibility:

  • High-calorie content for serious bulking.
  • Multi-protein blend for sustained amino release.
  • Added vitamins and minerals support overall health.
  • Trusted brand with consistent quality.

Cons & Potential Flaws:

  • Very thick and filling.
  • High sugar content—monitor if cutting or leaning out.
  • Can be expensive for daily use.

How to Use for Mass Gain:

Take post-workout or between meals for a calorie boost. For lean gains, use half servings and pair with whole foods.

9. Huel Black Edition

Best For: Athletes looking for complete, high-protein, balanced nutrition.

Rating: 9.4/10

Reason: Provides 40g protein, 27g carbs, and 400 calories per serving with no added sugar, making it versatile for lean bulking or meal replacement.

Huel Black Edition

Product Overview:

Huel Black Edition is a plant-based, nutritionally complete shake designed for modern athletes. It contains high-quality soy and pea proteins, healthy fats, fiber, and 26 essential vitamins and minerals.

Expert Review:

Our Fitness Expert team loved Huel Black Edition for its convenience and clean nutrition. It’s perfect for those who want a quick shake without added sugar or artificial fillers. Great for lean muscle growth or supplementing daily calories.

Pros & Flexibility:

  • Complete nutrition with no added sugar.
  • Plant-based protein for vegan-friendly diets.
  • High in fiber for digestive health.
  • Easy to mix and convenient for busy lifestyles.

Cons & Potential Flaws:

  • Lower calorie per serving—might need multiple shakes for hard gainers.
  • Flavor can be slightly earthy—best with flavorings or fruit.
  • Not a traditional mass gainer for extreme bulking.

How to Use for Mass Gain:

Use as a meal replacement or combine with snacks for a calorie surplus. Ideal for clean bulking phases.

10. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein

Best For: Anyone seeking high-quality, versatile protein for muscle growth.

Rating: 9.6/10

Reason: Trusted whey protein isolate + concentrate blend, perfect for post-workout recovery and daily protein needs.

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey

Product Overview:

Each serving delivers 24g protein, 3g carbs, 1g fat, and comes in a variety of flavors. It’s fast-digesting, low in sugar, and supports lean muscle growth without unnecessary calories.

Expert Review:

We use Gold Standard daily for post-workout recovery. It mixes easily, digests quickly, and tastes great. While it’s not a calorie-dense gainer, it’s perfect to support training, repair muscle, and meet protein goals.

Pros & Flexibility:

  • High-quality whey protein.
  • Low carb and fat—great for lean gains.
  • Multiple flavors available.
  • Easy to digest, mixes quickly.

Cons & Potential Flaws:

  • Not suitable for hard gainers needing extra calories.
  • Price per serving can be higher than generic whey.
  • Dairy-based—may not suit vegans or lactose-intolerant users.

How to Use for Mass Gain:

Mix 1–2 scoops post workout or between meals to reach protein goals. Can also be blended with a mass gainer or oats for additional calories.

How to Choose the Best Supplement for Mass

Here’s what to look for before buying:

  • Protein Quality – Look for complete protein sources (whey, casein, or blended plant proteins).
  • Calories per Serving – Hard gainers may need 600–1,200+ calories per shake. Lean bulkers may prefer 150–300.
  • Carb-to-Protein Ratio – Higher carbs are better for bulking; leaner proteins suit those avoiding fat gain.
  • Added Nutrients – Creatine, glutamine, or digestive enzymes can make a product more effective.
  • Digestibility – Choose supplements without fillers, excessive sugars, or allergens that might cause discomfort.
  • Budget & Value – Compare cost per serving, not just container size.

Expert Tips for Using Supplements for Mass

  • Don’t Skip Meals – Supplements work with whole foods, not instead of them.
  • Post-Workout Shake – Protein + carbs within 30–60 minutes of training supports recovery.
  • Track Calories & Protein – Use apps like MyFitnessPal to avoid under- or overeating.
  • Stay Hydrated – Higher protein and creatine intake means you need more water.
  • Consistency is Key – Results come from daily intake, not one-off shakes.

Buyer’s Guide: Budget vs. Premium Mass Supplements

Budget-Friendly

  • Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer, Muscletech Whey Protein
  • Affordable, reliable, and good for beginners.

Mid-Range

  • Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass, Mutant Mass, Dymatize Super Mass
  • Great calorie-to-protein ratio, well-tested brands.

Premium Options

  • Transparent Labs Whey Isolate, Huel Black Edition, NAKED Vegan Mass
  • Clean ingredients, organic/plant-based options, advanced formulas.

Safety & Quality Tips

  • Always check for third-party testing (NSF Certified, Informed Choice, or Labdoor).
  • Avoid cheap powders with fillers, excessive sugar, or proprietary blends that hide ingredients.
  • Consult a doctor if you have medical conditions, as high-protein diets and creatine affect kidneys.

Final Thoughts

The best bodybuilding supplements for mass will depend on your goals, body type, and lifestyle.

  • If you’re a hard gainer struggling with calories → go for Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass or Dymatize Super Mass.
  • If you want clean protein with no junk → try Transparent Labs Whey Isolate or NAKED Vegan Mass.
  • If you want a balanced gainer with quality carbs and proteinMutant Mass and Rival Nutrition Clean Gainer are great choices.

At the end of the day, supplements are just tools. The real results come from consistent training, proper diet, and recovery. Use these products to support not replace your bodybuilding foundation.

FAQs

Which supplement is best for hard gainers?

Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass and Dymatize Super Mass are ideal for those struggling to eat enough calories.

Can I use protein powders while trying to lose fat?

Yes! Whey isolates like Transparent Labs or Muscletech Whey can help maintain muscle on a calorie deficit.

Are vegan protein powders effective for muscle growth?

Absolutely. Products like NAKED Vegan Mass or Huel Black provide complete plant-based protein for growth and recovery.

How should I take mass gainers for best results?

Take 1–2 servings post-workout or between meals. Adjust portions to match calorie goals and avoid excess fat gain.

Are these supplements safe for everyday use?

Yes, if used as directed. Always check for third-party testing and consult a doctor if you have kidney or medical concerns.

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