Best Nootropics

The best nootropics, brain supplements and smart drugs tried, tested, reviewed and rated

Updated March 9th 2023

Evaluating The Top Nootropic Supplements

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the daily grind and struggling to stay on top of things, you're not alone. It can be tough to maintain focus and energy when you're bombarded with stimuli all day long. That's where nootropics can help. These supplements, also known as smart drugs, can help. They're increasingly popular, and for good reason: they can help you stay sharp, clear-headed, and energized, even in the face of a hectic modern lifestyle.

But not all nootropics are created equal. With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which ones are worth your time and money. That's where we come in. We've done the research and found the best nootropics out there, so you don't have to.

Hunter Focus - Best Nootropic Overall - Check Deals

NooCube - Best Value For Money

VyvaMind - Best Entry Level Product

Mind Lab Pro - Best All Rounder

Alpha Brain - Best Mid Range Product



The Top Nootropics of 2023

Our top picks are the ones that really deliver on their promises, giving you a boost in cognitive function and overall mental well-being. They're great for short-term performance, but they'll also help keep your brain healthy in the long run, protecting you from age-related decline.

So whether you're a busy professional looking to stay on top of your game or just someone who wants to be more alert and productive, these nootropics are the way to go. Trust us, we've tested them ourselves and the results are in. You won't be disappointed.

Test criteria

  • Objective assessment of alertness, overall cognitive function and capability under controlled conditions
  • Ingredient profiles and supporting scientific evidence
  • Downsides, potential side-effects and negative responses during trials

Hunter Focus - The Most Effective Nootropic Available

With higher doses and a more comprehensive ingredient profile, Hunter Focus is a cut above the other nootropic supplements on the market

Cognitive Performance

Hunter Focus offers a comprehensive blend of twenty active ingredients that are divided into three distinct nootropic areas: Concentration Activation, Memory Matrix, and Mood Amplification. This nootropic supplement aims to enhance cognitive function and promote overall brain health through its high-quality ingredients.

The Concentration Activation formula primarily relies on citicoline to improve cognitive performance. Citicoline is a naturally occurring brain chemical that the body converts into actylcholine and uridine. Actylcholine enhances neuron signaling and supports memory, recall, attention, and learning, while uridine protects and repairs brain cells, promoting optimal function in the long term. Additionally, l-tyrosine and l-theanine are included to further improve focus and cognition.

Memory

Hunter Focus' Memory Complex combines natural ingredients to enhance both short-term and long-term memory. Lion's mane mushroom, for instance, contains hericenones and erinacines, two active nootropics that stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) to repair and regenerate brain pathways and nerves. Maritime pine bark, another key ingredient, is a heavily researched nootropic that improves cognitive ability and brain function, particularly in terms of attention, by increasing blood flow and delivering more glucose and oxygen to the brain. Hunter Focus uses a pine bark extract standardized with 95% proanthocyanidins, which is among the most potent forms available. Finally, bacopa is included in the Memory Complex to provide additional cognitive benefits.

Mood

Hunter Focus' Mood Amplification formula comprises two potent nootropic compounds: phosphatidylserine (PS) and ashwagandha. PS is an aminophospholipid and amino acid derivative that helps to repair and regenerate neurons, boost glucose metabolism, and fight stress. Ashwagandha, on the other hand, is a traditional Ayurvedic compound that reduces the effects of stress, lifts mood, and enhances cognitive function by repairing and renewing brain axons and dendrites and increasing choline levels.

In summary, Hunter Focus' three distinct nootropic areas work together to improve cognitive performance, enhance memory function, and boost mood while promoting overall brain health.

Test

Result

Attention

9.5

Cognition

10

Memory

10

Mood

9.5

Stress

9.5

Brain Health

9.5

Learning

10

Overall

9.5

Pros and Cons

Pros

Bigger doses - 6 capsules per day, 180 capsules per pack

Highest quality ingredients


Cons

Top tier no compromise performance comes with premium price

Only available direct from Hunter Evolve website

Hunter Focus Highlights - What We Liked

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NooCube

It can't match Hunter Focus as it uses fewer ingredients in smaller doses, but it works for those on a budget

Ingredient Profile

NooCube has been found to enhance cognitive function, promote mental clarity and focus, and increase energy levels. Additionally, it may improve productivity and create a more positive outlook on life.

Individuals who take NooCube have reported better thought control, increased ability to maintain individual thought strands, and improved focus on tasks. Reaction times may also improve, which is particularly beneficial for athletes or anyone engaged in sports or other activities that require quick reflexes. Memory, spatial awareness, and mindfulness may also be enhanced by NooCube, leading to greater productivity and overall happiness.

One of the key features of NooCube is its all-natural, non-toxic, and side effect-free formula. The product contains several ingredients that are well-known in the nootropic world for their effectiveness. Bacopa Monnieri, for example, is an herb that enhances the reception of nerve signals, leading to improved reaction times and enhanced cognition.

Memory And Learning

Alpha GPC is another ingredient found in NooCube that enhances the body's production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in memory and learning. L-theanine and L-tyrosine are two more components that elevate mood, improve attention span and reaction times, and diminish stress levels and fatigue symptoms.

NooCube also includes Huperzine A to enhance memory function and oat straw extract to improve responsiveness. Both of these ingredients also aid in focus and concentration. The polyphenols Resveratrol and pterostilbene, commonly found in berries, are excellent antioxidants that slow the aging process and help to prevent age-related cognitive decline.

Brain Function

All of these ingredients work together to keep the brain healthy and fully functioning. NooCube improves cognition and focus, boosts energy levels, and fights aging, leading to a happier, clearer-headed, and more efficient you.

The latest update to the formulation now includes Lutemax 2020 which is proven to support attention, verbal memory, processing speed and stress response.

Test

Result

Attention

9.5

Cognition

9

Memory

9.5

Mood

9

Stress

9.5

Brain Health

9

Learning

9

Overall

9

Pros and Cons

Pros

Cost effective

Rounded ingredient profile covers most bases

Money back guarantee

Inclusion of Lutemax 2020 is unique


Cons

Great all rounder but doesn't excel in any area as a specialist product

Single unit purchase is expensive

NooCube - What We Liked

I've tried and tested NooCube with great success, and highly recommend it to anyone looking to improve their cognitive function and overall well-being.

When purchasing NooCube from the official website, customers receive a 60-day money-back guarantee. This is a fantastic deal for a fantastic product - one of the most potent and effective nootropics available on the market today.

VyvaMind

Great for nootropics first timers.

Ingredient Profile

VyvaMind is undoubtedly one of the best nootropic supplements available in the market. Its all-natural formula has undergone years of refinement to achieve the fantastic version 4.2.1 that we have today. This brain booster is ideal for those who want to take their cognitive performance to the next level and reach their full potential.

Although VyvaMind only contains six ingredients, it is a powerhouse that effectively enhances focus, concentration, memory, motivation, mood, stress, anxiety, and energy levels. It may seem too good to be true, but we assure you that it's the real deal.

Memory And Learning

Furthermore, VyvaMind is an excellent choice for newbies entering the world of nootropics. With only 75mg of caffeine anhydrous per serving, it is unlikely to leave you feeling jittery or anxious like some other brands. The addition of B vitamins is also a clever move that can improve memory, mood, and overall brain health.

VyvaMind's ingredient list is seriously impressive, featuring standout components such as Citicoline, which is not commonly found in other nootropic supplements. This natural compound provides long-lasting energy levels that can significantly boost your focus and concentration. Moreover, it is believed to have significant benefits for long-term brain health.

Brain Function

L-Theanine and L-Tyrosine are also key ingredients in VyvaMind that have numerous benefits, including improved attention span, creativity, and a sense of calm focus.

Test

Result

Attention

9

Cognition

8

Memory

9

Mood

9

Stress

8

Brain Health

9.5

Learning

8

Overall

8.5

Pros and Cons

Pros

Good choice for brain supplement newbies


Cons

Formula is comparatively basic, with only 6 ingredients at effective dosages

Only available in USA

VyvaMind - What We Liked

In conclusion, VyvaMind is a top-tier nootropic supplement that is affordable and effective. It is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their cognitive abilities and achieve their full potential.

Mind Lab Pro

Great all round brain supplement.

Ingredient Profile

Mind Lab Pro by Opti-Nutra is a top-tier nootropic supplement that offers multi-pathway cognitive support. Its comprehensive formula combines several key ingredients to promote optimized brain regeneration and protection, as well as healthy neurotransmitter levels. Unlike many other nootropics that focus on only one or two cognitive aspects, Mind Lab Pro offers a "whole brain" solution.

Thanks to its scientifically-backed formula, Mind Lab Pro is one of the best-researched and most data-driven nootropic supplements on the market. Its powerful blend of natural ingredients has been carefully selected to enhance both short-term and long-term cognitive health.

Memory And Learning

So what can you expect from using Mind Lab Pro? For starters, the supplement aims to boost your memory and information recall, making it easier and faster to process and retain new information. It also promotes greater focus, clarity, and multitasking ability, helping you stay on top of your game.

Moreover, Mind Lab Pro provides a clean and natural energy boost, without the use of stimulants. Its blend of natural ingredients helps improve energy, motivation, and mood, while keeping you calm and level-headed.

Brain Function

Over the long-term, Mind Lab Pro can help support neural plasticity and combat the natural cognitive decline that comes with aging. Its intelligent blend of 11 natural nootropics includes lion's mane, which promotes optimal NGF production for neural regeneration and maintenance, as well as citicoline, PS, bacopa monnieri, and maritime pine bark, all of which help slow cognitive decline, improve mental clarity, and enhance memory and learning.

The formula also includes both l-tyrosine and l-theanine, which work together to optimize mental performance in every possible way, reduce the effects of stress and fatigue, and promote greater attention, focus, and clarity.

Test

Result

Attention

8

Cognition

8.5

Memory

8.5

Mood

9

Stress

9.5

Brain Health

8

Learning

8.5

Overall

8.5

Pros and Cons

Pros

Whole brain solution makes it a good all-in-one option

No stimulants


Cons

Some ingredients below clinically validated levels, which may mean results vary between individuals

Mind Lab Pro - What We Liked

One standout feature of Mind Lab Pro is its inclusion of rhodiola rosea, a well-known herbal adaptogen. Rhodiola rosea helps maintain high levels of cognitive energy, reduces the effects of mental and physical stress, and enhances attention span, mental processing, and work capacity. With rhodiola rosea, Mind Lab Pro delivers clarity while keeping you calm and in a positive mood.

Finally, Mind Lab Pro's solid vitamin B complex (including vitamins B6, B9, and B12) works together to improve mental performance, balance your mood, and promote long-term cognitive health, especially against age-related cognitive decline.

Alpha Brain - Joe Rogan's Favorite Nootropic

Joe Rogan's favorite nootropic, whilst it's a good product there are better options.

Ingredient Profile

Alpha Brain from Onnit has had a lot of high profile publicity, due to its link with Joe Rogan. For those that don't know, Joe Rogan is a well-known comedian, podcaster, and mixed martial arts commentator who has long been associated with Onnit, the company behind Alpha Brain. Rogan has been an outspoken advocate for Onnit's products and has helped to spread the word about their cognitive-boosting benefits. However, some people have criticized Rogan for making unsupported claims about the effectiveness of Alpha Brain and other Onnit supplements. Despite this, Alpha Brain remains a popular nootropic supplement that is believed to enhance cognitive function by many. So, whether you're a fan of Rogan or not, there's no denying that Alpha Brain has a loyal following of believers.

Memory And Learning

Alpha Brain is a nootropic supplement that aims to improve cognitive function through a unique blend of proprietary supplements and natural ingredients. These supplements work together to optimize serotonin and dopamine response, increase levels of acetylcholine, and aid cellular communication, ultimately resulting in improved mood, energy levels, and faster, more focused thinking.

One of the key ingredients in Alpha Brain is l-tyrosine and l-theanine, which help to raise levels of serotonin and dopamine in the body, thus improving cognitive abilities and cutting through brain fog and fatigue. Another important ingredient is oat straw extract, which improves blood flow to the brain and enhances oxygen and glucose delivery to keep the brain sharp and highly energized.

Brain Function

Alpha Brain also focuses on increasing the body's natural production of acetylcholine, an essential neurotransmitter involved in communication within the brain and between the brain and the rest of the body. This is achieved through a combination of Alpha GPC, bacopa, and phosphatidylserine, the latter of which is the only nootropic recognized by the FDA for boosting cognitive function.

Additionally, Alpha Brain contains huperzia serrata, which inhibits the production of the catalyst acetylcholinesterase to maintain higher levels of acetylcholine in the body. However, it's worth noting that some of the claims made by Alpha Brain may lack scientific merit, and the other ingredients may not offer any significant cognitive benefits.

Test

Result

Attention

8

Cognition

8

Memory

7

Mood

9

Stress

8.5

Brain Health

8

Learning

7

Overall

8

Pros and Cons

Pros

Well rounded ingredient profile

Inclusion of phosphatidylserine, recognized by FDA as effective at boosting cognition


Cons

Unproven claims

Inclusion of ingredients not recognized for their claimed effects on cognitive performance

Alpha Brain - What We Liked

Overall, Alpha Brain remains one of the best nootropics on the market, offering a range of high-quality ingredients that deliver great benefits. While some of the additional claims may be baseless, the proven benefits of Alpha Brain's key ingredients make it a worthwhile supplement for those looking to enhance their cognitive abilities.

References

Type of Enhancement

Reference

Ingredient

URL

Cognitive Enhancement

Modafinil improves attention, inhibitory control, and reaction time in healthy, middle-aged rats

Modafinil

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4831738/

Cognitive Enhancement

Cognizin Citicoline Increases Brain Energy (ATP) by 14% and Speeds Up Formation of Brain Membranes by 26% in Healthy Adults

Cognizin Citicoline

https://cognizin.com/en/studies/cognizin-citicoline-increases-brain-energy-atp-by-14-and-speeds-up-formation-of-brain-membranes-by-26-in-healthy-adults

Cognitive Enhancement

Alpha-Glycerylphosphorylcholine Administration Increases the GH Responses to GHRH of Young and Elderly Subjects

Alpha-GPC

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4595381/

Cognitive Enhancement

Assessing the Efficacy and Mechanisms of Pycnogenol® on Cognitive Aging From In Vitro Animal and Human Studies

Pycnogenol

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6619435/

Cognitive Enhancement

Ginkgo biloba extract enhances visual and spatial functioning in healthy older adults

Ginkgo biloba

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4026746/

Cognitive Enhancement

Effects of Resveratrol on Memory Performance, Hippocampal Functional Connectivity, and Glucose Metabolism in Healthy Older Adults

Resveratrol

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6262174/

Memory and Attention Enhancement

Effects of L-Theanine Administration on Stress-Related Symptoms and Cognitive Functions in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

L-Theanine

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6366437/

Memory and Attention Enhancement

A Combination of Green Tea Extract and L-Theanine Improves Memory and Attention in Subjects with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study

Green tea extract and L-theanine

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21303262/

Memory and Attention Enhancement

Phosphatidylserine in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease: results of a multicenter study

Phosphatidylserine

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1609044/

Memory and Attention Enhancement

L-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state

L-Theanine

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18296328/

Memory and Attention Enhancement

Lutein supplementation improves visual performance in Chinese drivers: 1-year randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

Lutein

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6164534/

Memory and Attention Enhancement

Lutein, Zeaxanthin, and meso-Zeaxanthin: The Basic and Clinical Science Underlying Carotenoid-based Nutritional Interventions against Ocular Disease

Lutein, Zeaxanthin, and meso-Zeaxanthin

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4698241/

Stress Relief

A Standardized Withania Somnifera Extract Significantly Reduces Stress-Related Parameters in Chronically Stressed Humans: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study

Withania Somnifera Extract

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/242151370_A_Standardized_Withania_Somnifera_Extract_Significantly_Reduces_Stress-Related_Parameters_in_Chronically_Stressed_Humans_A_Double-Blind_Randomized_Placebo-Controlled_Study


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