Numerous nootropic supplements on the market advertise enhanced brain health and cognitive function. Among these options, two of the most popular are Prevagen and Alpha Brain.
Both supplements have remained on the market for over a decade, suggesting that a substantial number of users experience benefits from their use (or at least believe they do!).
But what are the similarities and differences between Prevagen and Alpha Brain? And which one delivers the most benefits?
We’ll answer those questions and more in this comprehensive comparison of Prevagen vs Alpha Brain below!
About Prevagen
Prevagen is marketed as a memory improvement supplement. Originally launched in 2007, it’s been available for over 15 years. The formula features one primary ingredient called apoaequorin, which the company claims has been clinically studied to support memory and overall cognitive function.
Prevagen comes in three different dosage strengths, though all formulas contain the same active ingredients.
About Alpha Brain
Alpha Brain is a nootropic developed by Onnit Labs. This formula targets multiple aspects of cognitive function, particularly memory and focus.
Alpha Brain contains several herbs and natural compounds, including l-theanine, alpha-GPC, and phosphatidylserine, all designed to work synergistically to enhance brain power and support mental performance.
Prevagen vs. Alpha Brain: Comparison
Now that you understand the basics of both supplements, let’s compare Prevagen and Alpha Brain head-to-head! In the following sections, we’ll examine these nootropics‘ formulations, benefits, value, reputation, and other factors to determine which is superior.
Comparison Table
| Supplement: | Prevagen | Alpha Brain |
| Active Ingredients | 2 | 12 |
| Proprietary Blends | No | Yes |
| Regular Price | $39.95 for 30 servings | $79.95 for 45 servings |
| Price/Serving | $1.31 | $1.78 |
| Subscription Savings | 10% | 15% |
| Potential Benefits | Memory, Cognitive Function | Memory, Focus, Processing Speed, Stress Management, Clarity |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 45 Days | 90 Days |
Prevagen vs. Alpha Brain: Supplement Formulation
Prevagen and Alpha Brain feature vastly different formulas. Prevagen takes a minimalist approach with just two ingredients: vitamin D3 and apoaequorin.
In contrast, Alpha Brain contains 12 active ingredients, including:
- Theanine
- Phosphatidylserine
- Alpha-GPC
- Cat’s Claw Bark
- Bacopa
- Huperzine A
- Pterostilbene
- And more
Ten of the 12 ingredients in Alpha Brain are contained within proprietary blends, making it impossible to determine individual ingredient doses. With Prevagen, both ingredient amounts are clearly disclosed.
Clinical Data
Both Alpha Brain and Prevagen have clinical research supporting their efficacy. A clinical study on Prevagen demonstrated improvements in several aspects of cognitive function among healthy individuals and those with mild cognitive impairment. However, this study has faced criticism for attempting to “squeeze out” meaningful data, as Prevagen showed no significant effects in many areas tested.
A clinical trial on Alpha Brain revealed enhanced memory, focus, and other cognitive functions. However, since Onnit sponsored this research, potential bias could affect the results.
Ingredient Diversity
Clinical research aside, Alpha Brain appears to offer a more comprehensive benefit profile due to its diverse ingredient selection.
For example, bacopa, Huperzia, and alpha-GPC can boost acetylcholine levels, enhancing memory and focus. Theanine influences alpha brain waves and helps manage stress. Tyrosine increases dopamine and norepinephrine for improved motivation and alertness.
Prevagen contains only vitamin D and apoaequorin. While these compounds may benefit brain health, two ingredients likely won’t deliver as many diverse benefits.
Prevagen vs. Alpha Brain: Benefits
Prevagen and Alpha Brain share several potential benefits, including:
- Improved Memory
- General Cognitive Enhancement
- Better Mental Processing
However, Alpha Brain offers additional potential benefits not found in Prevagen, such as:
- Stress Reduction
- Improved Mood & Motivation
- Elevated Alertness
- Better Focus
These additional benefits stem from Alpha Brain’s broader ingredient profile.
Customer Feedback & Reviews
Both Prevagen and Alpha Brain have accumulated tens of thousands of reviews on Amazon. Prevagen typically rates around 4.3 out of 5 stars, while Alpha Brain averages approximately 4.2 out of 5.
Given the popularity of both products, multiple sellers offer them on Amazon, each with slightly different ratings. The numbers above represent averages and generally reflect customer satisfaction with these supplements.
Many users reported that Prevagen helped with memory and general brain health, though some noticed minimal or no benefits. Prevagen users also reported a higher frequency of side effects, including headache, constipation, and occasionally edema and hypertension (though these last two are uncommon).
Alpha Brain customers noted improvements in memory, focus, and overall mental performance. Many users also reported reduced brain fog and enhanced energy levels. However, not everyone experienced benefits. Some reported side effects such as headaches and nausea.
Other Considerations
Additional factors worth comparing between Alpha Brain and Prevagen include return policies, company reputation, and individual benefit preferences.
Return Policies
Prevagen offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, while Alpha Brain provides a substantially longer 90-day guarantee. Both provide ample time to assess effectiveness, though your preferred timeline may influence your choice.
Company Reputation
Alpha Brain is manufactured by Onnit, which maintains a solid reputation, though they hold only a 3 out of 5-star rating on Trustpilot.
Prevagen lacks a Trustpilot rating. However, concerns exist regarding the company’s marketing practices, as they falsely advertised Prevagen’s effectiveness and claims. They presented their study results as demonstrating multiple memory benefits, making the product appear highly effective, when in reality most effects were no better than placebo.
Prevagen vs. Alpha Brain: Value
Prevagen comes in Regular Strength, Extra Strength, and Professional Formula options, available in 30- or 60-count bottles. This creates multiple purchasing options.
Prices range from $1.25 to $3 per serving, depending on strength and bottle size selected.
Alpha Brain is available in 30-count (15 servings) or 90-count bottles. Regular prices are $34.95 ($2.33/serving) and $79.95 ($1.78/serving) respectively.
You can save 10% with Prevagen subscriptions and 15% with Alpha Brain subscriptions.
Overall, Alpha Brain represents better value, costing only slightly more (and sometimes less) than Prevagen while providing a broader range of effective ingredients. However, the proprietary blends in Alpha Brain do reduce its overall transparency and value proposition.
Prevagen vs. Alpha Brain: Which Supplement is Better?
Based on all factors examined above, Alpha Brain outperforms Prevagen as a comprehensive nootropic. This formula provides more effective ingredients supporting a broader range of benefits compared to Prevagen. Additionally, Alpha Brain carries a lower risk of side effects and benefits from better company credibility.
That said, Prevagen does offer potential benefits. If you’re specifically seeking improved memory and general cognitive health, it may be worth considering, especially given the numerous positive reviews.
However, for users seeking comprehensive support for focus, memory, mood, and mental performance, Alpha Brain is the superior choice as an all-around nootropic.
