Why Do Macro Calculators Give Different Results?
Different assumptions can change an estimate even when body measurements stay the same.
Change one assumption at a time
All rows use male, age 29, 183 cm and 78 kg. Baseline: factor 1.55, maintenance, 25/50/25. Each comparison changes only the named setting.
| Change from baseline | kcal/day | Protein / carbs / fat (g) |
|---|---|---|
| Baseline | 2764.8125 | 172.8 / 345.6 / 76.8 |
| Activity to 1.375 | 2452.65625 | 153.3 / 306.6 / 68.1 |
| Goal to Lose Fat (−10%) | 2488.33125 | 155.5 / 311.0 / 69.1 |
| Split to 30/45/25 | 2764.8125 | 207.4 / 311.0 / 76.8 |
Rounding is another difference
2764.8125 becomes 2765 for display. Allocating from the unrounded value gives 172.80078125 g protein; allocating from 2765 gives 172.8125 g. Both display as 172.8 g. Rounded food totals can also differ from rounded targets.
What this comparison means
These are reproducible examples from this application, not competitor outputs. They do not establish which estimate is closest to your needs.
Mifflin et al. (1990): resting energy study. This source supports the equation, not our activity or goal presets.
Methodology · TDEE calculator · Macro ratio calculator.
Content revised November 4, 2026.