Best Nootropics - Research & Testing Report
By Richard Davidson, October 20 2025
During the course of my research I've often come back to this central question - what are the best nootropic supplements and what patient profile best suits each one? In this article I endeavor to answer exactly that. I'll share an appraisal of some of the most effective ingredients found to be effective in supporting various aspects of cognitive health and performance. I'll discuss the clinical evidence alongside my own test results and experiences. I've also sought to include a simple review of the leading pre-made nootropic "stacks", products which aim to bring the best of a range of ingredients into a single convenient daily supplement.
1. Best Nootropic Supplement: ThinkEase
- Comprehensive 15 ingredient formula includes the most effective nootropic ingredients in clinically proven amounts.
- Effective in improving focus, memory, mental clarity, learning and overall brain health.
- Uses premium extracts shown to work in studies.
- Safe and effective ingredient profile.
- Very effective in practice, results were impressive and sustained.
2. Runner-up Nootropic Supplement: Mind Vitality
- Supports focus and memory with moderate amounts of a number of proven nootropic ingredients.
- Includes some adaptogens, but doesn't use premium extracts.
- Good daily support, but more narrow range of benefits, limited to focus.
- Sustained daily use only recommended for up to 6 months due to Huperzia Serrata.
3. 3rd Place Nootropic Supplement: NooCube
- Provides modest but consistent support.
- Has a sensible overall profile, but misses some of the most effective nootropic ingredients.
- Good support for focus, and mild productivity benefits.
- Results may not be perceivable to more experienced users.
An Introduction To Nootropics - What Are They?
Nootropics are relatively new in terms of mainstream usage. However, they have in actual fact been around in different guises for many years. Their origins likely go back millennia, but documented use exists from Ayurvedic practices and local customs around the world. In simple terms, nootropic substances are ingredients proven to be effective in supporting or improving one or more aspects of cognitive health or mental performance.
Despite the early origins of nootropics, our understanding and use of these substances has exploded over the past 50 years, with widespread use amongst consumers in advanced economies exploding over the last 15 years or so - likely in line with the increase in access to information and the rise of supplement use and greater ownership of one's own health and healthcare choices. It's certainly a very different field to the one pioneered by Dr Giurgea in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
It's also worth briefly noting, that different nootropics don't just serve different purposes, but also work in a variety of ways. Some work by restoring brain chemistry, others by optimizing hormone levels, or oxygen levels. Others work by improving brain activity itself, or act to protect the brain for the long-term. It's therefore very easy to see why many people don't just choose to supplement with a single nootropic ingredients, instead combining a range of complementary ingredients (known colloquially as a "nootropic stack"), or choosing a pre-made blended supplement.
The Different Types of Nootropic Substances and Ingredients
Whilst the scientific definitions get somewhat more complex, there are essentially 4 different groups of nootropics. These are:
1. Natural, or naturally occuring nootropics. Generally speaking, these are plant-derived, or from other naturally occurring sources. Examples includes Bacopa Monnieri, L-Theanine, Pine Bark Extract, as well as many others.
2. Synthetic nootropics. This category predominantly refers to lab made nootrtopic substances, most notably racetams, many of which are prescription medications, but this does vary but jurisdication.
3. Prescription stimulants. These include well-known prescription stimulants such as Adderall, as well as a range of other ADHD medications.
4. Nootropic supplements. These are non-prescription, but nonetheless often very effective products in providing cognitive support or enhancement, but without the side effects often correlated to prescription medications. These can include single ingredient products, but the most effective supplements typically combine a range of synergistic ingredients into a single formula - for effectiveness, convenience and safety. It's worth being cognizant that there are good and bad supplements available. Sensible advice is to look for products that share transparent ingredient information. Look for precise amounts of each individual ingredient (not proprietary blends). Amounts should align closely with scientific research and also use the same extract grade - this is important in ensuring the desired nootropic effects will be experienced in practice.
The Most Widely Researched and Proven Nootropics
There are many hundreds of nootropics in total, each with varying benefits, supporting research and differing safety profiles. There are however a number of widely studied nootropics that have been proven to be both effective and safe. I won't consider prescription nootropics here, as that's a subject best discussed directly with a medical professional. What I will cover are those nootropics that have been widely studied in the general population, and which have been shown to be both beneficial and safe when dosed correctly.
The Most Researched Nootropics For Memory and Learning
- Phosphatidylserine (100mg)
- Bacopa Monnieri (Extract: 50% Bacosides / 300mg)
- Citicoline (250mg)
- L-Tyrosine (275mg)
- B-Vitamins (various)
- PQQ (10mg)
The Most Researched Nootropics For Focus And Mental Performance
- Acetyl L-Carnitine (750mg+)
- Lion's Mane (500mg+)
- Citicoline (250mg)
- L-Tyrosine (275mg)
- PQQ (10mg)
The Most researched Nootropics For Mental Energy And Motivation
- Acetyl L-Carnitine (750mg+)
- L-Theanine (200mg)
- Caffeine (varies, 50mg+)
- Rhodiola Rosea (Extract: 3% Rosavins & 1% Salidroside / 200mg)
The Most Researched Nootropics For Depression And Anxiety
- Bacopa Monnieri (Extract: 50% Bacosides / 300mg)
- Rhodiola Rosea (Extract: 3% Rosavins & 1% Salidroside / 200mg)
- Citicoline (250mg)
- B-Vitamins (various)
The Most Researched Nootropics For Brain Health
- Phosphatidylserine (100mg)
- Acetyl-L-Carnitine (750mg+)
- Citicoline (250mg)
- Lion’s Mane (500mg+)
- Pine Bark Extract (Extract: 95% Proanthocyanidins / 75mg)
- Rhodiola Rosea (Extract: 3% Rosavins & 1% Salidroside / 200mg)
The Best Nootropic Supplement - Test Results
1. ThinkEase - Rated As The Best Nootropic Overall
The best performing nootropic supplement I've tested is ThinkEase. I found it to be effective in lifting mental performance across all areas, including memory, focus, learning speed and overall cognitive performance. One look at the ingredient profile reveals why it's so effective.
The formula contains 15 of the most powerful nootropic ingredients, all of which are at (or in some cases above) the levels required to be effective. Beyond this headline, there's some important detail - the amounts of each ingredient are clearly shown and the best possible extracts are used throughout to maximize the products effects.
As well as having a well researched ingredient profile, ThinkEase has also invested in a clean ingredient profile. Meaning there's no fillers such as magnesium stearate or silicon dioxide - both of which are prevalent throughout the supplement industry. That means everything in the capsules is there for a reason. With ThinkEase you get premium nootropic ingredients in the right amounts, and nothing else.
My ThinkEase Experience
I used ThinkEase as instructed for an initial test period of 90 days. Within the first 7-10 days a number of positive cognitive effects presented themselves, with more benefits accruing as the test proceeded.
The most significant improvement was to my overall cognitive performance, particularly when there were significant demands placed on me, or when stress was most acute. During these periods I found I was better able to perform and bring my best thinking and concentration to the tasks in front of me. I found it was possible to remain productive for longer periods of time and my ability to process new information was improved.
Beyond greater cognitive performance, I also found recall improvements developed over the course of the first 4-6 weeks and steadily improved further throughout the remainder of the test period. Again, the combination of some of the most widely studied nootropic ingredients in the correct forms at the right dosages is what's behind this. Whilst not a surprise given the strength of the formulation, it was still incredibly impressive to experience the results firsthand.
ThinkEase Ingredients
Focus Blend: N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (275 mg), Rhodiola Extract (200mg standardized to 3% Rosavins & 1% Salidroside), L-Theanine (200 mg)
Memory Matrix: Bacopa Monnieri Extract (300 mg, standardized to 50% Bacosides), Citicoline (250 mg)
Clarity Complex: Pine Bark Extract (75mg, standardized to 95% Proanthocyanidins)
Learning Booster: Acetyl L-Carnitine (750 mg), Lion’s Mane (550 mg, only fruiting body), PQQ (10mg)
Productivity Enhancer: Vitamin B6 (2.5 mg), Vitamin B9 ( 100 mcg), Vitamin B12 (7.5 mcg)
Brain Health Formula: Phosphatidylserine (100 mg)
Eye Health Formula: Lutein (10mg), Zeaxanthin (2mg)
Other ingredients: Organic Nu Flow, Premium Grade Pullulan Capsule.
Research & Science
ThinkEase incorporates a well-considered range of research -backed nootropics. It's also simple to understand precisely how much is included of each ingredient due to the transparent label approach the company follows. In my experience it's rare to see such a diverse range of proven ingredients, rarer still to see that every single one is present in amounts that align so closely with the latest clinical research. Every ingredient is present in optimal amounts, with one or two even more generously dosed to maximize their effectiveness.
Looking at each ingredient in turn:
Focus Blend
- N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine is known to be effective in supporting alertness and mental drive. It's an amino acid used by the body to make dopamine and norepinephrine, which in turn enable you to stay in control when mental demands are high.
- Rhodiola Extract works to ensure a healthy stress response, which makes focusing and performing under stress much easier. It's important to note that ThinkEase have invested in the best possible Rhodiola Extract (3% Rosavins & 1% Salidroside) - this is a clear indication of just how comprehensive the brand's approach seems to be in developing a well-considered and highly effective nootropic supplement.
- L-Theanine is a well-known nootropic and is proven reduce overactive signaling in the brain, resulting in calm focus.
Memory Matrix
- Bacopa Monnieri's memory support effect have been extensively studied. It's been shown to improve recall and mental processing speed (speed of recall).
- Citicoline works to increase energy in the brain and works to support phospholipid production. This a vital process in ensuring the brain has healthy neurons and can efficiently communicate between them.
Clarity Complex
- Pine Bark Extract combats oxidative stress. This is important as oxidative stress is one of the biggest drivers of cognitive decline. It also provides effective support for long-term brain health. Again ThinkEase uses the most premium and effective extract available with 95% Proanthocyanidins.
Learning Booster
- Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALCAR) is a very expensive but very powerful nootropic. Due to its cost, it's not commonly found in nootropic supplements, and where it is used it's generally at sub-clinical doses (i.e. in ineffectual amounts). ThinkEase includes it and uses a full 750mg dose, which is proven to be effective in supporting mitochondrial energy, which in turn leads to faster thinking.
- Lion's Mane Powder is widely used in nootropic supplements, but it's very rare to see such a serious dose. ThinkEase uses 550mg, more than any other nootropic supplement I've tested. This means it hits the amount required to boost nerve growth factors (NGF). Which translates into improved brain plasticity and improved brain health over time.
- PQQ is a relatively new nootropic, but the research into its effects is robust and compelling. It directly supports mitochondria (which are responsible for energy in the brain cells), as well as helping fight oxidative stress. It's again correctly dosed to provide mental stamina and clear thought over extended periods.
Productivity Enhancer
- ThinkEase has a comprehesive B-vitamin complex, comprised of B6, B9 and B12. These work to support the nervous system and metabolize energy efficiently - which results in greater productivity and reduced mental fatigue.
Brain Health Formula
- Phosphatidylserine works to improve communication between the brain's neurons and as such provides overall brain function support.
Summary
ThinkEase combines a broad range of well-researched ingredients, with clinically validated dosages. But even more than that, it follows the very latest research in using innovative ingredients such as ALCAR and PQQ, as well as the most effective extracts available. The use of a clean label formula further increases its appeal, it's reassuring to know it has everything you could want without any hidden extras of surprises. From my own testing and research there's no question it's the most effective nootropic supplement available.
2. Mind Vitality - Second Best Nootropic
I've tested many nootropic supplements and it's clear to me from doing so that there's a vast array of products available - and most aren't well formulated. Not so for Mind Vitality, all in all it's a fairly good option. Whilst it doesn't excel, it does do a good enough job in supporting focus as it's intended to (hence the product name). It uses some well-known nootropic ingredients, most notably Lion's Mane, Bacopa Monnieri, N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine and Choline and others. It's fair to say it doesn't go the distance in a head to head with ThinkEase as it uses fewer ingredients, in lower amounts and it also doesn't invest in top tier extracts or some of the most effective ingredients proven in the most recent research. But what it does do well is commendable.
My Professional and Personal Observations
I trialed Mind Vitality for 90 days in line with my standard test protocol. I found it to be fairly effective in supporting focus. It's likely down to the inclusion of Lion's Mane and Rhodiola. The effects are more muted compared with ThinkEase, but that's perhaps unsurprising due to the inclusion of lower doses and the absence of premium extracts - meaning the ingredient quality and effectiveness is essentially unknown.
I was surprised to see that L-Theanine is missing from Mind Vitality's formula. It's a highly effective and beneficial nootropic ingredient that promotes clam focus. Mind Vitality instead relies on Ashwagandha which is less effective and arguably underdosed if it's aim is to provide a sense of calm (which a premium form in sufficient amounts can - to a limited extent at least).
Mind Vitality Ingredients
Lion's Mane (500mg), Bacopa Monnieri (300mg), N-Acetyle L-Tyrosene (250mg), Choline (250mg), Ashwagandha (200mg), Rhodiola Extract (200mg), Ginseng Korean (100mg), Phosphatidylserine (100mg), Mucuna Extract (75mg), Pine Bark Extract (75mg), Ginkgo Biloba (50mg), Huperzia Serrata (200mcg), B1 (Thiamine HCL) (100mg), B3 (Niacin) (12.5mg), Vitamin B6 (5mg), Vitamin B9 (100mcg), Vitamin B12 (5mcg)
Other ingredients: Microcrystaline Cellulose, Croscarmellose Sodium, Stearic Acid, Magnesium Stearate, Di-tab.
Research & Science
Mind Vitality has a fairly well thought through formulation. Most ingredients are only present at the lower end of the ranges used in studies, but they aren't significantly underdosed in the way many other brands are. It would be good to see a few more cutting-edge ingredients but overall it's a worthwhile product that goes some way to supporting focus.
The formula itself includes 500mg of Lions Mane, which is good but not great. The inclusion of Bacopa is also good to see, but the absence of a standardized extract does give cause for concern - or at least some skepticism over just how effective the form included actually is in practice.
N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine has been widely studied and can be expected to support mental performance under stress. Again it's dosed slightly low, but is close to the required range so may provide some degree of support.
I was surprised to see Mind Vitality opt for Choline, a less effective form that Citicoline, but it can be expected to provide a modest amount of learning support. As I've mentioned, I'm not the greatest supporter of Ashwagandha in nootropic supplements, as it's comparatively low price and modest cognitive benefits at low doses don't to my mind justify it's use in a premium capsule supplement. Again, it's an non-standardized form, meaning it's real world effect is likely to be mild.
Pine Bark (again not in a standardized form) is present at the right level, but the lack of standardization means it's uncertain how effect the actual ingredient used is in practice. Phosphatidylserine is present at the right level. I'm less convinced by the decision to include Huperzia Serrata, whilst it can provide some cognitive benefits, it's not generally recommended to use for more than 6 months for safety reasons.
Summary
In summary, Mind Vitality works in supporting focus, as it sets out to do. It doesn't have the overall range or quality of ingredients as ThinkEase, but it does do one thing reasonably well.
3. NooCube - Third Best Nootropic
NooCube is made by Wolfson Brands, and it's fairly well-known as an entry tier product. The formulation saw some updates 18 months ago, which have improved the product, but it's still a fairly stripped back formulation with few standout ingredients. Like ThinkEase, it has some ingredients to also support eye health, an increasingly relevant feature as screen time plays a significant role in many people's lives, but that's where the comparison stops. It has fewer ingredients in lower amounts and consequently delivers fewer benefits and generally at a reduced level. However, most ingredients are close to the levels founds to be effective in studies, but not all.
My Professional and Personal Observations
It's fair to say that NooCube offers a good range of general nootropic ingredients, which can and do lead to some improvement to focus and even mental clarity. The most notable ingredients are L-Theanine, Panax Ginseng and L-Tyrosine. Whilst I did experience an mild but nonetheless tangible shift in focus with NooCube, it's important to state that several of the ingredients it does use present in sub-optimal amounts. Bacopa Monnieri is essentially under-dosed when compared with clinical research. Pterostilbene and Resveratrol are also present only in modest amounts, meaning they're unlikely to be effective, or contributing in any significant way to the results I experienced. As I mentioned NooCube does make claims that it protects eye health with an ingredient not used in many nootropics, but they hide the amount used - this likely means it's underdosed as there's no other reason to hide this information when every other ingredient is transparently declared. The range of ingredients used in NooCube is quite limited, but what is there makes sense.
NooCube Ingredients
LuteMax 2020 (undisclosed), Bacopa Monnieri (250mg), Panax Ginseng 200:1 Concentrate (20mg), Pterostilbene (140mcg), Resveratrol (14.3mg), L-theanine (100mg), L-tyrosine (250mg), Choline (250mg), Cat’s claw 4:1 Concentrate, Vitamin B1 (1.1mg), Vitamin B7 (50mcg), Vitamin B12 (2.5mcg)
Other ingredients: Microcrystaline Cellulose Capsule Shell (Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose), Maltodextrin, Silica, Magnesium Stearate.
Research And Science
It's good to see that NooCube has now removed the main allergens from its formulation, particularly oat straw. It is however worth noting that it does contain ingredients that are best avoided by anyone on blood thinning medication, most notably panax ginseng. The ingredient list contains predominantly well regarded nootropic ingredients, but it is slightly disappointing that some of the best ingredients aren't present in the amounts shown to be effective. L-theanine, for example is only dosed at 100mg, whereas the science suggest 200mg is the threshold for the ingredients benefits to be noticeable. L-tyrosine is similarly present below the amounts studied and therefore may not provide the same results found in clinical studies. NooCube includes lutein for eye health and interestingly resveratrol for cell health, but the benefits for brain function are less clear.
NooCube also includes a lesser known and not well proven ingredient in Cat's Claw Extract. The science isn't well established in determining whether it's beneficial for the brain, or how much should be used per day. More evidence is needed.
Summary
NooCube is a more mild product and the results are similarly less pronounced than I experienced with ThinkEase. It's worth saying that its main claims center on supporting focus and its does a good job with this, but perhaps at a lower level than the best in class results I've experienced. With one or two more cutting edge ingredients and increased amounts of L-theanine and L-tyrosine, it could go from being a good product to a great one. If you after a mild nootropic it might be a good fit for you.
Best Nootropic Supplements Comparison
Ingredient | ThinkEase | Mind Vitality | NooCube | Alpha Brain | Mind Lab |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Vitamin B6 | 2.5mg | 5mg | None | Undisclosed (likely ineffective) | 2.5mg |
Vitamin B9 | 100mcg | 100mcg | None | None | 100mcg |
Vitamin B12 | 7.5mcg | 5mcg | 2.5mcg | None | 7.5mcg |
Acetyl L-Carnitine | 750mg | None | None | None | None |
Lion's Mane | 550mg | 500mg | 500mg | None | 500mg |
Bacopa Monnieri | 300mg | 300mg | 250mg (ineffective) | Undisclosed (likely ineffective) | 150mg (ineffective) |
N-Acetyle L-Tyrosine | 275mg | 250mg | 250mg | None | None |
Citicoline | 250mg | 250mg (only Choline) | 250mg (only Choline) | None | 250mg |
L-Theanine | 200mg | None | 100mg (ineffective) | None | 100mg (ineffective) |
Rhodiola Extract | 200mg | 200mg | None | None | 50mg (ineffective) |
Phosphatidylserine | 100mg | 100mg | None | None | 100mg |
Pine Bark Extract | 75mg | 75mg | None | None | 75mg |
PQQ | 10mg | None | None | None | None |
Lutein | 10mg | None | Undisclosed | None | None |
Zeaxanthin | 2mg | None | None | None | None |
Alpha GPC | None | None | None | Undisclosed (likely ineffective) | 500mg |
Ashwagandha | None | 200mg | None | None | None |
Huperzia Serrata | None | 20mcg (ineffective) | None | Undisclosed (likely ineffective) | None |
Vitamin B1 | None | 100mg | 1.1mg (ineffective) | None | None |
Vitamin B3 | None | 12.5mg | None | None | None |
Caffeine | None | None | None | 100mg | 100mg |
Cat's Claw Extract | None | None | Undisclosed (likely ineffective) | Undisclosed (likely ineffective) | None |
Vitamin B7 | None | None | 50mcg | None | None |
Oat Straw Extract | None | None | None | Undisclosed (likely ineffective) | None |
Rhodiola Extract | None | 200mg | None | None | 50mg (ineffective) |
Ginkgo Biloba | None | 50mg | None | None | None |
L-Leucine | None | None | None | Undisclosed (likely ineffective) | None |
Vinpocetine | None | None | None | Undisclosed (likely ineffective) | 200mg |
Pterostilbene | None | None | None | Undisclosed (likely ineffective) | 100mg |
Clean Ingredient Profile | Yes | No | No | No | Yes |
Premium Grade Capsule | Yes | No | No | No | Yes |
Best Nootropics - Overall Results
1. Best Nootropic Supplement: ThinkEase
- Comprehensive 15 ingredient formula includes the most effective nootropic ingredients in clinically proven amounts.
- Effective in improving focus, memory, mental clarity, learning and overall brain health.
- Uses premium extracts shown to work in studies.
- Safe and effective ingredient profile.
- Very effective in practice, results were impressive and sustained.
2. Runner-up Nootropic Supplement: Mind Vitality
- Supports focus and memory with moderate amounts of a number of proven nootropic ingredients.
- Includes some adaptogens, but doesn't use premium extracts.
- Good daily support, but more narrow range of benefits, limited to focus.
- Sustained daily use only recommended for up to 6 months due to Huperzia Serrata.
3. 3rd Place Nootropic Supplement: NooCube
- Provides modest but consistent support.
- Has a sensible overall profile, but misses some of the most effective nootropic ingredients.
- Good support for focus, and mild productivity benefits.
- Results may not be perceivable to more experienced users.
Overall Assessment
The range of nootropics now available is significant. For certain conditions, a doctor prescribed option may be the right choice. However, for many people, the best nootropic supplements are effective in supporting a wide range of cognitive functions, as well as supporting overall brain health. If your priorities are focus, memory, learning, or long-term brain health there are very effective supplements out there.
The simplest solution for many is finding the right all-in-one nootropic supplement - as these can provide a wide range of benefits without the cost or complexity of taking numerous different brain supplements. Of all the nootropic supplements I've tried and tested, ThinkEase is the most complete all-in-one product and the most effective. I found it provided all the benefits the brand claims, most notably, memory improvement, greater clarity and mental sharpness, and improved overall productivity. Whilst it's hard to ascertain the long-term brain benefits firsthand, the ingredient list and research backs this claim up too. Whether you're new to brain supplements, or looking for an upgrade, it might just be the best option for you too.
References and Further Reading
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- Giesbrecht, T., Rycroft, J. A., Rowson, M. J., & De Bruin, E. A. (2010). The combination of L-theanine and caffeine improves cognitive performance and increases subjective alertness. Nutritional Neuroscience, 13(4), 283–290. https://doi.org/10.1179/147683010X12611460764840
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