How to Get XL Candy in Pokémon GO is one of the most common questions trainers ask once they reach higher levels and begin powering Pokémon beyond Level 40.
Unlike regular Candy, XL Candy is significantly harder to obtain and is required for taking Pokémon all the way to Level 50. Because of this, understanding how to get XL Candy in Pokémon GO efficiently can save a huge amount of time and effort.
Here’s everything you need to know about earning XL Candy in Pokémon GO in 2026.
What Is XL Candy in Pokémon GO?
XL Candy is a special resource used to power Pokémon beyond Level 40.
Each Pokémon species has its own XL Candy, meaning Mewtwo XL Candy can only be used on Mewtwo, while Rayquaza XL Candy can only be used on Rayquaza.
Players need large amounts of XL Candy to fully maximise Pokémon for:
- Raids
- GO Battle League
- Master League PvP
- Collection goals
How to Get XL Candy in Pokémon GO
There are several ways to earn XL Candy.
| Method | XL Candy Available? |
|---|---|
| Catching Pokémon | Yes |
| Transferring Pokémon | Yes |
| Walking Buddy Pokémon | Yes |
| Trading Pokémon | Yes |
| Raids | Yes |
| Rare Candy XL | Yes |
| Events | Sometimes |
Most players will earn XL Candy gradually through normal gameplay.
Catch Pokémon to Earn XL Candy
The most reliable way to get XL Candy in Pokémon GO is by catching Pokémon.
Higher-level Pokémon generally have a better chance of awarding XL Candy when caught.
Events featuring boosted spawns can be particularly useful because they allow trainers to collect large numbers of the same species in a short period.
Transfer Pokémon for XL Candy
Transferring unwanted Pokémon can also provide XL Candy.
Many experienced players save large numbers of event Pokémon before transferring them in bulk to maximise their chances of earning additional XL Candy.
This strategy is particularly effective during Community Days and GO Fest events.
Walk Your Buddy Pokémon
Walking a Buddy Pokémon can reward XL Candy once certain level requirements are met.
This method is especially useful for rare Pokémon that are difficult to catch regularly.
Legendary Pokémon, Mythical Pokémon and Ultra Beasts are often popular Buddy choices because their Candy is otherwise difficult to obtain.
Earn XL Candy from Raids
Raid battles are another important source of XL Candy.
Defeating and catching Legendary raid bosses can reward XL Candy directly while also providing opportunities to transfer duplicate Pokémon later for additional rewards.
Players focusing on Pokémon such as Mewtwo, Rayquaza, Groudon and Kyogre often rely heavily on raids for XL Candy farming.
What Is Rare Candy XL?
Rare Candy XL is a special item that can be converted into XL Candy for almost any Pokémon species.
Because Rare Candy XL is much rarer than standard Rare Candy, most trainers save it for Legendary and Mythical Pokémon.
If you’re looking specifically for this item, check out our How to Get Rare Candy XL in Pokémon GO guide.
How Much XL Candy Do You Need?
Powering a Pokémon from Level 40 to Level 50 requires a significant amount of XL Candy.
A fully maxed Pokémon requires:
| Goal | XL Candy Required |
|---|---|
| Level 50 Pokémon | 296 XL Candy |
This is why efficient XL Candy farming is so important for competitive players.
Best Pokémon to Use XL Candy On
Many players prioritise XL Candy for:
- Mewtwo
- Rayquaza
- Groudon
- Kyogre
- Zacian
- Necrozma
- Dialga
- Palkia
These Pokémon remain useful in raids, Master League PvP and future events.
How to Get XL Candy in Pokémon GO in 2026
The best ways to get XL Candy in Pokémon GO are catching Pokémon, transferring duplicates, walking Buddy Pokémon, completing raids and using Rare Candy XL when available.
Because Level 50 Pokémon require such large amounts of XL Candy, building a consistent farming strategy is one of the most important long-term goals for serious Pokémon GO players.
