Finding a safe and effective nootropic among the countless options can seem impossible.
So, we took two well-known nootropics supplements, NooCube and Mind Lab Pro, and put them head to head for this hands-on, in-depth review.
I solicited the help of a dozen volunteers to use these products over several weeks, and I discussed the ingredients with our nutritionist.
I’ll talk about the differences and similarities between Noocube and Mind Lab Pro and which one came out on top.
Read on to find out if NooCube or Mind Lab Pro is better for your needs.
Key Differences: NooCube vs Mind Lab Pro
The main difference between NooCube and Mind Lab Pro is that one formula contains some common allergens that can be problematic for some users.
Both brain supplements promise to enhance cognitive function in the average adult and contain stimulant-free, safe, and effective ingredients.
However, NooCube contains soy and gluten, which can hugely affect some individuals, including some in our test group.
Mind Lab Pro, on the other hand, offers a product free of many allergens, including soy and gluten.
Additionally, Noocube capsules are gelatin-based, while Mind Lab Pro provides vegan-friendly capsules.
Before we take a deeper look at each supplement, let’s discuss our testing process.
Our Testing
I reached out to our network of product testing volunteers who filled out a questionnaire about mental energy levels, brain fog, and stress.
From there, we hand-picked a dozen diverse volunteers who could commit to several weeks of testing.
We ran a battery of online cognitive performance tests at the beginning of the testing window.
We then had each volunteer provide detailed information about things like diet, exercise, and sleep habits because all play a vital role in brain health.
We divided our twelve volunteers into two groups: six to test NooCube and six to test Mind Lab Pro, and instructed them to keep a detailed journal for several weeks.
At the end of the testing period, we again ran the battery of cognitive performance tests, including verbal memory and reaction time tasks.
One nootropic slightly edged out the other, so read on to find out which one.
Noocube vs Mind Lab Pro: Head to Head
This NooCube vs Mind Lab Pro review wouldn’t be complete without a head-to-head comparison of ingredients.
We like that both nootropics supplements have product labels free of proprietary blends with straightforward ingredients and dosing.
These two brain supplements share some exciting ingredients to boost overall cognitive function.
See also other nootropic product comparisons:
NooCube vs Mind Lab Pro: Shared Ingredients
Amino acids are an essential component of our health, including the brain.
Both formulas include 100 mg of L-theanine, an amino acid found in tea, and some varieties of mushrooms.
Studies suggest that L-theanine can improve cognitive function under stress and enhance memory [1].
L-tyrosine is another common ingredient; however, Mind Lab Pro contains N-acetyl L-tyrosine, which has a better absorption rate and overall nootropic benefit than the standard L-tyrosine NooCube contains.
The final ingredient found in both formulas is Bacopa monnieri. Noocube contains 250 mg, and Mind Lab Pro contains 150 mg.
However, Mind Lab Pro has 24% bacosides, the active ingredient from the herb, whereas NooCube includes 20%.
Studies support the efficacy of Bacopa monnieri on mental clarity, brain function, and memory retention, as well as having antioxidant effects [2].
“Animal and human studies show that Bacopa monnieri may help improve memory, attention, and the ability to process visual information.”
- Ryan Raman, M.S., R.D.
Additionally, each formula contains B vitamins, though different combinations.
NooCube includes vitamins B1, B7, and B12 or thiamine, biotin, and cobalamin, respectively.
Researchers link vitamin B deficiency to neurological and psychiatric symptoms, including cognitive decline, depression, decreased mental speed, and other cognitive abilities [3].
Mind Lab Pro includes vitamins B (pyridoxine), B9 (folate), and B12 (cobalamin).
People often interchange folate and folic acid, so it is worth noting that folate is the natural form of B9, and folic acid is the synthetic version. It can improve brain function, particularly in those with long-term cognitive decline [4].
I learned from our nutritionists that maintaining adequate levels of all B vitamins is critical to support brain processing and, thus, a great addition to nootropic supplements.
Now let’s see where the natural nootropic ingredients in these two supplements diverge.
NooCube
Wolfson Brands is the supplement company behind NooCube and is well-known in the industry for its quality products.
According to their website, using their product improves memory function, provides eye protection from screen fatigue and gives you razor-sharp focus and mental energy.
They are confident in their product and offer a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Let’s look at the NooCube ingredients.
Suited for Men & Women
1. Alpha-GPC
Alpha-GPC or L-alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine is a chemical made from choline. The body makes Alpha-GPC, and labs also produce it. Alpha-GPC seems to work by increasing the levels of acetylcholine, a brain chemical important for cognitive functions like learning and memory [5].
2. Cat’s Claw
Cat’s claw is a vine most commonly found in the Amazon rainforest. Researchers continue to study its benefits for improving cognitive functions.
Still, many agree it has valuable compounds like alkaloids and flavonoids that offer many health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and brain health [6].
3. Oat Straw
Oat Straw comes from the unripened plant Avena sativa, grown in Northern Europe and North America.
Though the company states the ingredients in their formula, including oat straw, are science-backed, there are conflicting study results to support cognitive function benefits.
One 12-week study where adults with normal brain function supplemented with 1500 mg daily showed oat straw did not boost memory, attention, multi-tasking ability, or focus [7].
Other studies show improvement in cognitive function and mental energy [8]. It is worth noting here that the supplement company funded the research cited here that shows positive results.
4. Huperzine-A
People use Huperzine-A because they believe it improves cognitive function and brain health [9].
Though the science is limited, many believe Huperzine-A can:
- Improve cognitive decline brought on by Alzheimer’s and dementia
- Promote mood balance for those with depression
- Improve memory (age-related)
- Increase brain energy
- Offer neuroprotective properties
5. Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a popular addition to supplements because of its antioxidant properties. It is a naturally occurring compound in the skin of red grapes.
However, peanuts, red wine, and berries are also sources.
Pterostilbene is the synthetic version of resveratrol, and you will also see this listed on the ingredient label of NooCube.
Research shows pterostilbene absorbs and crosses the blood-brain barrier more quickly than resveratrol, meaning you will likely feel its cognitive benefits sooner [10].
NooCube Results
NooCube offers a promising formula for boosting brain health and promoting mental clarity, supported by our test group feedback and online cognitive test results, showing moderate improvement in areas such as brain processing, mental clarity, and relaxation.
- Alpha-GPC may boost brain performance
- A good dose of cat’s claw for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
- The manufacturer offers a 60-day money-back guarantee
- It contains common allergens that reduce the consumer base
- Not vegan-friendly
Mind Lab Pro
Mind Lab Pro is a nootropic stack by Opti Nutra that promises both short-term and long-term improved cognition.
The official website claims that this whole brain optimizer will alleviate brain fog, increase focus in the short term, and promote long-term cognitive function and health.
Like NooCube, Opti Nutra is confident in the efficacy of its Mind Lab Pro formula and offers consumers an empty-bottle, money-back guarantee.
Let’s look closer at the Mind Lab Pro formula.
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1. Citicoline
Citicoline is a naturally occurring chemical compound in the brain that increases another brain chemical called phosphatidylcholine.
Research suggests it modulates other chemicals responsible for sending brain messages [11].
Many people supplement with citicoline, believing it improves cognitive performance.
2. Lion’s Mane Mushroom
Lion’s mane mushroom or Hericium Erinaceus is rich in vitamins like thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin, which can offer neuroprotection [12].
This mushroom also improves brain function in several ways [13].
It’s likely Hericium Erinaceus:
- It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Improves mood by reducing depression and anxiety
- Boost mental processing speeds
- Promotes growth of new brain cells
3. Phosphatidylserine
Phosphatidylserine is a fatty membrane called phospholipid that protects the brain cells and can repair any damage [14].
Many people take Phosphatidylserine to reduce brain fog, enhance memory, and prevent mental decline.
4. Rhodiola Rosea
Researchers seem to agree that Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogen, which means it helps your body’s resistance and response to stress [15].
Mental and physical stress can lead to sleep issues, anxiety, and other health problems, so nootropic stacks like Mind Lab Pro containing Rhodiola Rosea are at the top of my list.
“The adaptogenic nature of rhodiola makes it a popular supplement for fighting fatigue and other symptoms associated with stress.”
- Gavin Van De Walle, M.S., R.D.
5. Maritime Pine Bark Extract
More and more research is supporting the efficacy of Maritime pine bark extract for improving cognitive function through vascular, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antioxidant mechanisms [16].
Mind Lab Pro Results
Our group of Mind Lab Pro product testers scored significantly better in the cognitive test at the end of the trial period when compared to the initial baseline tests, which included areas of mental agility and focus.
Additionally, each volunteer’s detailed journal and questionnaire answers showed reduced anxiety and stress and significantly increased mental clarity and knowledge retention while promoting overall well-being.
Related Articles:
- Many potent ingredients provide brain protection
- Natural ingredients promote the growth of nerve cells, increasing the brain’s bandwidth
- Free of chemicals that compromise dietary habits
- It is a universal nootropic helping with all areas of cognition
- A little on the pricey side
Stand Out Features
While researching for this NooCube vs Mind Lab Pro comparison, I found several stand-out features worth mentioning.
First, both formulas boost cognitive function with formulas that do not contain caffeine. Caffeine-free formulas were a real plus for some in our NooCube vs Mind Lab Pro test groups who are sensitive to stimulants.
This feature makes them stand out from other products on the market as even those who aren’t stimulant-sensitive appreciated not having to adjust their morning coffee routine to accommodate additional caffeine.
But back to individual stand-out features.
Noocube offers a formula that is similar to other nootropics but stands out because:
- It is stimulant-free
- Quite affordable compared to other products
- Users report feeling the effects for up to ten hours, a bit longer than other products
With Mind Lab Pro, the following features stood out:
- Third-party testing to ensure safety and quality assurance
- A clean label
- It comes in a 100% recyclable bottle
- Standardized herbs to get consistent, optimal benefits
FAQs
Does NooCube Help with Anxiety?
NooCube may help with anxiety for some users. Noocube contains a good dose of Bacopa monnieri, a medicinal herb used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to reduce stress.
Does NooCube Work Right Away?
NooCube works right away, usually within 30-45 minutes of taking the brain supplements. As with most smart drugs, long-term benefits like reduced stress may take a week or two to be noticeable.
Does Mind Lab Pro Work Immediately?
Mind Lab Pro works immediately for most users, usually within 30 minutes. Users can expect long-term brain health benefits, like the growth of nerve cells, from consistent dosing within weeks.
How Many Hours Does Mind Lab Pro Last?
Mind Lab Pro can last three to six hours for a short-term mental performance boost. Mind Lab Pro’s formula also contains ingredients to support long-term cognitive abilities and brain health.
NooCube vs Mind Lab Pro: Which Is Better?
This NooCube vs Mind Lab Pro comparison showed that both are top-notch nootropic supplements that don’t hide behind proprietary blends and hold up to their promises of improving cognitive function.
However, our in-depth testing shows that one nootropic stack edges out the other.
Mind Lab Pro came out on top because it enhances cognition in the short and long term with a formula not overrun with chemical compounds.
Third-party testing with researched-backed ingredients and significant cognitive improvements in our test group also led to our stamp of approval.
Suited for Men & Women
Mind Lab Pro
- Many potent ingredients provide brain protection
- Natural ingredients promote the growth of nerve cells, increasing the brain’s bandwidth
- Free of chemicals that compromise dietary habits
- It is a universal nootropic helping with all areas of cognition
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of June
- A little on the pricey side
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