Top 7 brain training devices 2025: Muse, Mendi & more

Brain training has come a long way from sudoku and crossword puzzles, and that makes choosing the right brain training device even harder.

Google Trends shows that global interest in brain training has steadily climbed since 2021, with a notable surge throughout 2024 and into 2025, as more people turn to tech-enabled tools to improve focus, reduce stress, and build mental resilience. But with so many devices promising results, it’s hard to know what actually works.

We ranked 7 of the top contenders: Muse, Mendi, Sens.ai, FocusCalm, Neurosity, Brainbit & Neurable to help you find the best brain training tool for you. Whether you’re a high performer, sleep-obsessed biohacker, or simply interested in improving brain health and cognitive function, this guide lays out the true pros and cons  and reveals which device is most worth investing in.

What is the top brain training device in 2025?

What to look for in a brain training device?

While mental fitness is gaining popularity, it can still be a headache knowing what the best device is for your brain. What sensors track your brain and why are they important? What are you going to track? Why do you need to track it? The list goes on. Here’s a breakdown of 4 main things you need to look for when purchasing your new brain training device: 

1. Sensors - which ones and where should they be?

The two most common t brain training sensors for a consumer wearable are EEG (electroencephalography) and fNIRS (functional near-infrared spectroscopy). EEG tracks the brain’s electrical signals, helping you see when your mind is calm, focused, or distracted. fNIRS, on the other hand, measures blood flow in the brain, which offers insight into how much cognitive effort you're using during tasks.

Most brain training devices only use one of these sensors, either EEG or fNIRS. However, Muse S Athena is the only consumer-grade wearable that uses both, offering a more complete and scientifically validated picture of your mental performance. Devices like Brainbit and Neurable focus solely on EEG, but vary in their number of channels and target use cases (e.g., relaxation vs. productivity).

Some devices like Sens.ai and Neurosity also incorporate additional technologies like PBM (photobiomodulation), which delivers light stimulation to the brain, or multi-channel EEG, which captures more detailed brainwave data.More EEG channels = higher-resolution data. Fewer channels = simpler and more accessible for casual use. While these features expand functionality, their applications and benefits may vary depending on the user’s goals and level of experience.

When deciding which device to buy, look for sensors positioned along the forehead and scalp, particularly over the prefrontal cortex.

2. Real-time feedback

In your search for the best brain trainer, neurofeedback is what turns raw data into actionable insight, helping you recognize and reshape mental patterns in real time. For it to be truly effective, the feedback needs to be clear, immediate, and delivered in a way that matches how you best process information. 

Each device delivers neurofeedback in a different way. Muse uses real-time audio cues and some gamification, Mendi offers a visual bar, FocusCalm gamifies the experience with scores and games, while Sens.ai layers in personalized protocols with light-based stimulation. Neurosity, built for developers, provides raw EEG data and productivity metrics. Brainbit and Neurable both provide EEG-based feedback as well, with a focus on meditation tracking and cognitive load monitoring, respectively. While raw EEG data isn’t typically available in standard consumer apps, platforms like Muse, Neurosity, and Brainbit offer developer access through SDKs or APIs, enabling more advanced or experimental use cases for researchers and tech-savvy users.

While all devices offer their own unique differences, choosing the right tool comes down to how you learn best and what kind of feedback keeps you engaged for your personal brain training goals.

3. Sleep support & structured guidance

Without structure and guidance in the device itself, brain training can be more difficult to incorporate into your day to day routine. Some devices offer structured programs, like subscription bundles that include guided sessions for focus, stress, and sleep and are paired with cognitive tracking and app syncing to support long-term habit building. This makes it easier to integrate brain training into daily routines and track progress over time.

If you’re looking to develop habits with your brain training device, tools with built-in sleep and stress support may offer more impactful results by addressing the foundation of mental performance: rest and recovery. While not available in every device, sleep assessment using  features like sleep tracking, sleep stage feedback, and tools that help you return to sleep are becoming increasingly valued by users navigating high mental loads and irregular routines. 

With the constant cognitive demands of modern life, whether from work, screen time, or disrupted sleep schedules, it is clear that rest and recovery are emerging as essential components of effective brain training. For deeper insights into how sleep affects brain performance, explore Muse’s curated sleep resources.

4. Scientific validation

Scientific validation helps you trust your device, and therefore make meaningful changes in your life based on the measurable outcomes that your device gives you. 

When searching for your brain training device, look for tools that have been tested in clinical and cognitive performance research. Like Muse having 200+ research studies. Some newer tools, like Sens.ai and Neurable, are beginning to build their research base as well, drawing from neuroscience principles or referencing emerging studies in related fields. While the level of validation varies, looking for transparent data and science-backed claims can help guide a more informed choice.

Additionally, reading these resources will help you understand neurofeedback and biofeedback if you are new to this space. 

Which device is best for you? Here’s our 2025 ranking

Now that you know what to look for, let’s take a closer look at the top contenders on the market. From science-backed headsets to gamified tools, here’s how each one stacks up, and what we’ve ranked them based on a variety of credentials, such as sensor quality, feedback type, usability, sleep support, and scientific validation.

#1 Muse: The most advanced at-home neurofeedback tool

Muse is the first and only consumer-grade wearable that combines EEG and fNIRS in one sleek headband. This powerful combination gives accurate brain insights, grounded in clinical research. With 1 billion minutes of data collected, Muse has built the world’s largest EEG dataset. This fuels their newest device Muse S Athena, with AI-powered neurofeedback, delivering unmatched precision in brain training.

In addition to real-time biofeedback and one of the most accurate sleep tracking systems available, its in-app experience includes over 500 guided meditations, detailed progress tracking. It also includes a structured Mental Strength program designed to build focus, resilience, and cognitive endurance, while having metrics like calm score and personalized programs to help you on your mental fitness journey. It’s been used in many clinical studies (including a 180-day Long COVID trial) and trusted by neuroscientists, therapists, and high performers.

Why we ranked it #1:
Muse offers the most complete at-home brain training system with a combination of clinical-grade sensors, structured content, and long-standing scientific validation.

Best for: Biohackers, meditators, high performers, therapists
Not ideal for: Users seeking gamified or competitive-style neurofeedback.

#2 Sens.ai: For serious cognitive health 

Sens.ai brings together EEG, HRV, and photobiomodulation (PBM) in one ambitious headset. It’s loaded with personalized programs designed for peak performance, relaxation, and longevity. Sessions combine light stimulation and real-time brainwave tracking, with a more structured journey compared to most wearables.

Its premium price reflects the depth of features and is a great fit for those who want a comprehensive and future-ready brain training tool. Compared to more casual tools, Sens.ai leans into long-term optimization, with precision tracking, targeted programs, and advanced data insights.

Why we ranked it #2:
Sens.ai is one of the most comprehensive consumer tools available today, combining multiple biosensors with structured, research-driven content. While not as universally user-friendly as Muse, its performance potential is hard to beat for serious users.

Best for: Tech-savvy users, advanced biohackers, peak performance seekers
Not ideal for: Beginners, minimalists, or those needing simplicity

#3 Neurosity: Built for focused work and flow states

Neurosity’s Crown headset is equipped with 8-channel EEG, offering the highest channel count of any device in this. It’s designed to optimize productivity and track focus during work, with a developer-friendly API and detailed dashboard. Think of it more as raw data and serious metrics, instead of mind games to train your brain. 

Unlike guided meditation devices, Neurosity doesn’t come with structured wellness programs. Instead, it offers an open API and developer SDK, giving advanced users the ability to create custom apps, dashboards, or integrations with their own tools. Think of it as a powerful neural data platform rather than a plug-and-play mindfulness aid.

Why we ranked it #3:
Neurosity delivers unmatched data fidelity and flexibility for those who want to build their own brain-optimized workflows. It’s not for everyone, however for tech-savvy users, it unlocks a level of control no other device offers.

Best for: Developers, coders, productivity tracking
Not ideal for: Meditation beginners or users seeking plug-and-play programs

#4 Mendi: Simple, accessible, and beginner friendly 

Mendi uses fNIRS to track blood flow in your prefrontal cortex, giving you insights about focus and cognitive effort. The headset pairs with an app that shows a bar rising or falling based on your concentration. It’s lightweight, intuitive, and designed for short, consistent practice sessions. It’s easy to use, affordable, and requires no setup or guidance.

While Mendi doesn’t offer EEG tracking or structured programs, its ease of use and affordability make it a solid entry point for those curious about neurofeedback and looking to build basic mental fitness habits.

Why we ranked it #4:
Mendi is perfect for beginners who want to explore brain training without the complexity or cost of more advanced tools. While it lacks depth for long-term transformation, it excels at making mental fitness approachable.

Best for: Newbies, curious minds, casual training
Not ideal for: Structured learning or measurable cognitive transformation

#5 FocusCalm: Light, game-like brain training

FocusCalm is built for users who want a lighter, more casual approach to brain training. The headband uses EEG to generate a “calm score,” which you can improve by playing in-app games, completing cognitive training exercises, or listening to meditations. While it offers a simpler experience than multi-sensor tools like Muse, it shines in its playful design and ease of use, making it a great starting point for simple stress relief and everyday calm.The headset focuses on improving relaxation and mental clarity through short bursts of training.

The app’s guided programs are beginner-friendly, and the experience leans more toward gamified stress relief than deep neurofeedback or detailed cognitive tracking. It’s a great pick if you're new to brain training or looking for something that fits into a busy day without feeling clinical.

Why we ranked it #5:
FocusCalm offers EEG-powered neurofeedback in a gamified, stress-reducing format. It’s ideal for casual use but lacks the depth or tracking needed for serious mental performance training.

Best for: Casual users, stress relief, beginners
Not ideal for: High-resolution data or performance-focused training

#6 Brainbit: Sleek EEG for research and developers

Brainbit is a lightweight, wireless EEG headband designed more for researchers and developers than everyday users. It offers reliable signal quality with dry electrodes and 4 EEG channels, making it a solid option for those interested in neuroscience, biofeedback experiments, or academic settings.

Unlike tools like Muse or FocusCalm, Brainbit doesn’t come with a structured app, guided sessions, or wellness-focused programs. It’s a device-first platform that requires external apps or developer integrations to access its full potential, which is great for custom use cases but limiting for general users.

Why we ranked it #6:
Brainbit delivers clean EEG data in a sleek package, but its lack of a consumer-friendly experience and guided features holds it back for most users. It’s best suited for those building their own tools or seeking raw signal access.

Best for: Researchers, developers, neurotech students
Not ideal for: Casual users or those wanting guided brain training programs

#7 Neurable: Experimental but promising for workplace focus

Neurable stands out as one of the only EEG-powered earbuds designed for productivity. Built around everyday wearability, it aims to detect mental fatigue and optimize focus through subtle cues and data feedback. The concept is innovative and has a great consumer-focus as a brain-sensing headset disguised as regular audio gear, however, it’s still early-stage in execution.

Most consumer access to Neurable is limited, and its software experience isn’t as developed as other tools in this list. While the idea of brain-controlled earbuds is exciting, it currently lacks robust training programs, transparent data access, or wide availability, placing it lower in this ranking.

Why we ranked it #7:
Neurable is one to watch out for. However, in our 2025 ranking, it’s best suited for early adopters and experimental use and may not be the best one to opt in for right now. Until its software and user-facing features catch up, it can’t compete with the more established brain training tools above.

Best for: Early adopters, neurotech enthusiasts, productivity-focused testers
Not ideal for: Most consumers, meditation users, or anyone wanting out-of-the-box results

Final thoughts: Which device is best for you?

The best brain training device depends on your unique goals, learning style, and lifestyle. Whether you're a high achiever optimizing for peak performance, a beginner exploring mental fitness, or a developer building your own neurotech integrations, the world of brain training is expanding rapidly, and you’ll likely find the perfect tool for you. 

If you’re still on the fence, we recommend going for something that checks a box in every area, our number one pick is Muse S Athena. The Athena Premium Bundle combines EEG + fNIRS tech, real-time feedback, 5 advanced sleep tools, and a structured mental strength program, giving you one of the most comprehensive at-home brain training solutions available today.

FAQ: Choosing the right neurofeedback device

What’s the best at-home neurofeedback tool?
Muse stands out as the most advanced and research-backed tool available to consumers today. With EEG + fNIRS sensors and real-time guided content, it offers the most complete brain training for focus, endurance and recovery.

How can neurofeedback help with sleep?
Many neurofeedback devices now include tools designed to improve sleep quality. These can range from real-time biofeedback that helps calm the mind before bed to features that guide you back to sleep during nighttime wake-ups. Devices like Muse S Athena go a step further with sleep stage tracking, recovery insights, and tools like the Digital Sleeping Pill, designed to help users fall back asleep using real-time brainwave feedback. For those struggling with stress-related sleep issues, neurofeedback can be a helpful addition to a nightly routine.

Can you do real neurofeedback at home?
Yes. Devices like Muse and sens.ai offer real-time feedback based on your brain activity. Muse is unique in that it also guides you through biofeedback meditations, sleep sessions, and focus training for everyday use.

What is better? Muse vs Mendi?
Both Muse and Mendi have their strengths, depending on what you're looking for. Muse offers more comprehensive features like EEG + fNIRS sensors, guided programs, and sleep tracking which is ideal for users who want a well-rounded brain training experience. Mendi, on the other hand, focuses on simplicity and ease of use with fNIRS-based neurofeedback, making it a great entry point for those new to the space.

How do I choose a brain training device?
Start with your goals. Are you looking to improve focus, manage stress, enhance sleep, or track productivity? Then consider your preferences: Do you want structured guidance, visual feedback, or raw data? Devices like Muse are great for everyday use, offering a blend of science-backed insights and user-friendly tools without requiring clinical support.

 Explore More

• Read how Muse works

• The science behind Muse

• Read user success stories

• Learn about Muse for sleep

• Download our mental fitness ebook