If you want to train your team fast in Pokémon Legends Z-A, Exp. Candy is your best friend. Whether you're evolving new catches or preparing for tough battles, these candies give your Pokémon a quick boost of experience — no grinding needed.

 

 

What Are Exp. Candies?

Exp. Candies come in five sizes — XS, S, M, L, and XL — each giving a different amount of experience points.

Exp. Candy XS – Grants 100 Exp. Points

Exp. Candy S – Grants 800 Exp. Points

Exp. Candy M – Grants 3,000 Exp. Points

Exp. Candy L – Grants 10,000 Exp. Points

Exp. Candy XL – Grants 30,000 Exp. Points

Each candy works instantly when used, so you can power up your Pokémon anytime, anywhere.

 

How to Get Exp. Candy

1. Complete Side Missions

Many side missions reward you with Exp. Candy of all sizes. Some quests appear only after progressing through the main story, so make sure to advance your missions regularly.

 

2. Defeat Alpha Pokémon

Alpha Pokémon drop more loot than regular wild Pokémon — including Exp. Candy. Take them down to earn XS, S, or M candies and some extra rare items on the side.

 

3. Buy from Quasartico Inc.

You can exchange Mega Shards for Exp. Candy at the Quasartico Inc. shop:

Exp. Candy S – 8 Mega Shards

Exp. Candy M – 30 Mega Shards

Exp. Candy L – 100 Mega Shards

The shop expands its inventory as you progress through the story, so the larger candies won't be available early on.

 

4. Battle at Restaurants

After completing Side Mission 29, you'll unlock the Le Nah restaurant battle court, where you can rematch three trainers in a row for Exp. Candy S.

Clear Side Mission 60 to unlock Le Yeah— a tougher version that rewards Exp. Candy M each time you battle.

These battles also help advance Mable's Research, which can eventually earn you the Shiny Charm.

 

5. Pick Up Random Loot Around Lumiose City

Keep an eye out for yellow sparkles and red Poké Balls scattered across Lumiose City — they might contain Exp. Candy. These spots refresh over time, so it's worth revisiting areas you've already explored.

 

6. Earn from Special Rewards

Some late-game rewards grant Exp. Candy XL — the most powerful version:

Side Mission "Goodbye, Gengar" (unlocked after Main Mission 39) gives Exp. Candy L x2 and Exp. Candy XL x1.

Mable's Research Level 47 also grants Exp. Candy XL for completing her advanced research tasks.

 

How to Use Exp. Candy

1. Press X to open the main menu.

2. Go to your Satchel and switch to the Other Itemstab.

3. Select an Exp. Candy and choose "Use this item."

4. Pick the Pokémon in your party you want to level up.

5. Confirm the number of candies to use and watch them level up instantly.

Exp. Candy can only be used on Pokémon currently in your party, so keep your favorites close when training.

 

Training Tips

To maximize your Exp. Candies, follow this simple rule: use small candies early, and save the large ones for later. This is because the low-level experience requirements are small, making smaller candies efficient. The real experience crunch comes at higher levels, where L and XL Candies become invaluable.

A steady candy supply is key. The best method is to combine activities: farming Alpha Pokémon, challenging restaurants, and exploring the world will provide a balanced and constant stream of all candy sizes.

Also, don't forget that the sparkling item spots in Lumiose City respawn. Make a habit of checking them whenever you're back in town for a reliable, free source of extra Exp. Candies.

For trainers who want guaranteed level-ups, our dedicated guide to finding Rare Candy in Pokémon Legends: Z-A has you covered.