Weight Gainer – Best in Test 2026! | Hardworkout Magazine

Key takeaways

- Mutant Mass Gainer is named best in test for 2026, scoring 39/40 on nutritional composition and 10/10 on price at 154 kr per kg.

- Weight gainers are scored on five criteria: nutritional composition (40 points), taste (25), consistency and solubility (20), price (10) and extra content (5).

- Most weight gainers contain roughly 50-70% carbohydrates and 20-30% protein, which is what separates them from protein powder.

- For most people a serving providing 400-600 calories is enough; only those with very high energy needs require more.

- Rapid weight gain in the first few weeks is partly fluid retention, because carbohydrates and creatine bind more water in the body.

A weight gainer can be a useful supplement for those looking to gain weight or build muscle. The products provide a lot of energy per serving and make it easier to consume enough calories throughout the day.

In this test, we have gathered the best gainers of 2026 and evaluated them based on nutritional content, taste, consistency, and price. Further down in the article, you can read more about the test criteria, the benefits of gainers, and the difference between weight gainers and protein powder.

How do we test and rank weight gainers?

Hardworkout.no is committed to ensuring that the tests are independent and credible. We have emphasized criteria such as ingredients/active substances, stated effects, documented effects, as well as studies and other documentation to compile our top lists.

You can read more about the criteria for the test further down in the article.

PS: Prices and selection may vary from day to day. The prices we provide are recommended retail prices. Online stores often have good deals, and the products may be on promotion at a lower price than what is stated here.

We always strive to keep the list updated with products that are in stock. Where there are multiple alternative prices, we link to several stores.

By shopping through the links in the test, you contribute to our ability to continue publishing quality-conscious tests and articles, and we greatly appreciate it if you do so. Prices are updated regularly and reflect the best prices on the market.

Best in Test: [Mutant Mass Gainer](https://hardworkout.no/mutant-mass-gainer)

The Criteria for the Test

Serving sizes vary between products. Therefore, we have looked at the nutritional content per serving and compared the content per 100 grams.

Nutrient Composition (40)

We assess the ratio of carbohydrates, protein, and fat, total calorie content, sugar content, and which carbohydrate sources are used.

Products with high calorie content, moderate sugar content, and a good balance between carbohydrates and protein score the highest.

Taste (25)

We evaluate how natural the taste is perceived, sweetness, and any aftertaste. The products are tested both with water and milk.

Consistency and Solubility (20)

Here we assess how easily the powder dissolves in liquid, as well as the consistency of the shake. Products that clump, foam excessively, or settle at the bottom are rated lower.

Price (10)

We evaluate price per serving, price per 100 grams, and total content per bag or box.

Extra Content (5)

Here we assess the content of creatine, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and digestive enzymes.

Benefits of weight gainer

- A simple way to increase calorie intake.

- Can contribute to faster weight gain and muscle growth.

- Provides both energy and protein after training.

- Quickly replenishes glycogen stores.

- Can contribute to better recovery and more energy for training.

Who benefits most from a weight gainer?

Weight gainer is especially suitable for those who struggle to consume enough calories through a regular diet. Large amounts of food every day can be challenging, especially if the goal is to gain weight and build muscle.

A gainer provides a lot of energy in a simple serving, while also supplying protein and carbohydrates in the same shake.

During training, the body uses glycogen stores in muscles and the liver as an energy source. After the session, these stores need to be replenished.

The carbohydrates in a weight gainer contribute to this, while the proteins contribute to muscle growth and recovery.


Weight gainer vs. protein powder

The difference between weight gainer and protein powder is primarily the content of carbohydrates and calories.

Protein powder mainly consists of protein, while a weight gainer contains significantly more carbohydrates and provides considerably more calories per serving.

Most gainers typically contain around 50–70% carbohydrates, 20–30% protein, and smaller amounts of fat. The carbohydrates often come from maltodextrin, oats, or other fast and easily digestible carbohydrate sources.

The composition varies quite a bit between products. Some are made for the highest possible calorie intake, while others have a higher protein content and a more balanced nutritional profile.

Some gainers are also supplemented with ingredients such as creatine, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.

Weight Gain

To gain weight, you need to consume more calories than you burn over time. Many people with a high activity level or very high metabolism find it difficult to eat enough food throughout the day.

A weight gainer makes it easier to increase calorie intake without having to eat several large meals. One serving can provide as much energy as a larger meal.

Why does weight go up so fast in the first weeks?

Most will also experience that weight increases rapidly in the first few weeks. Some of this is due to carbohydrates and creatine binding more fluid in the body.

How much you need

How much weight gainer you need depends on activity level, body weight, and how easily you gain weight.

How many calories per serving should you aim for?

Most people will do well with products that provide around 400–600 calories per serving, while individuals with very high energy needs may require more.

Start with smaller portions and gradually increase if your weight does not go up over time.

Weight gainer should be used as a supplement to your diet, not as a replacement for regular meals.