When looking for the best brain training apps, you should keep some things in mind. You’ll want an app that covers a range of areas — memory, focus and learning for instance — that also helps you see your progress. With the following apps, you’ll get all these factors and more. Here are the best of the best:
1. Lumosity
You’ll often see Lumosity at the top of the best brain training apps list. This success is due to the app’s versatility and all-encompassing approach. With daily five-minute brain training exercises, you’ll be able to improve your memory, attention, problem-solving and response skills.
The app also lets you view your process as it assesses your skills. Through memory puzzles, math games and speed tests, you’ll have everything you need to boost your brain right here with Lumosity.
You’ll find the app for free on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The free version lets you sample a few of the games, giving you a random selection of daily games. However, you can upgrade to premium plans to unlock all of the games and be able to play them at any time.
2. Peak
Peak is a well-rounded app that keeps you on your toes. Throughout random challenges and tests every day, you’ll be working on improving all your skills. From focus to agility to problem-solving to memory, Peak makes sure to cover it all.
Unique with this app, Peak provides you with your own personal “coach” that guides you, encourages you and helps you reach your brain training goals. You’ll then be able to see your brain progress and compare it with friends or those in your age group.
Get Peak today for Apple and Android devices for free. If you sign up for the paid monthly subscription, you can play unlimited games and get personalized workouts.
3. MindPal
MindPal is one of the newest brain training apps gaining attention for its ability to create personalized plans tailored to cognitive goals. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, its affordable subscription plans are a standout feature, making it accessible without breaking the bank.
However, while it offers excellent customization, its library of games is smaller than that of other apps on this list. That said, if you value personalization over sheer volume, MindPal might be the perfect fit to keep your brain sharp and focused.
4. Elevate
With a clean and easy-to-navigate interface, Elevate shows you how much time you spend challenging yourself in each category. So, if you spend a few hours training yourself in productivity or focus, the app will reflect that growth.
Elevate has plenty of areas to focus on, too. Vocab and grammar, reading comprehension, articulation, math, listening and confidence just scratch the surface of where you’ll be able to give your brain a boost.
You can download Elevate for free today from the App Store and Google Play Store. Then, you can upgrade to premium subscriptions if you’d like.
5. NeuroNation
NeuroNation is perfect for boosting memory and improving focus. With its highly interactive exercises, the app keeps you motivated and makes training feel less like a chore and more like a fun challenge.
However, you must stick with it and engage consistently to see real results. The payoff is a sharper mind and stronger cognitive skills that can benefit you in your personal and professional life. NeuroNation offers a personalized and effective way to level up your mental fitness if you’re ready to commit.
6. Memorado
Coming from a scientific background, Memorado knows exactly how to bring your brain to the next level. When you download the app, the first step you’ll take is setting goals for yourself. Let Memorado know which areas of your brain you’d like to improve.
Then, you’ll take an assessment so the app knows where it should start you off with your training. After that, you’ll get to play five games every day, creating a schedule of brain training you can easily stick to.
On the Apple App Store, you’ll find this app under GEIST (Memorado). Download it for free on both the App Store and Google Play Store. You can get Memorado Premium to gain access to all games, statistics and tests.
7. Happify
Happify is a fantastic app for boosting brainpower and emotional well-being. Focusing on positive psychology, it offers engaging activities to help you reduce stress, build resilience and create a more optimistic mindset.
While it’s not solely dedicated to cognitive training, Happify is a great tool for improving overall mental health and happiness. It’s worth exploring if you’re looking for an app that goes beyond brain games to help you feel happier and more balanced.
8. MentalUP
Specifically for children and young teens, MentalUP specializes in games and tests that will engage newer generations. It offers over 100 exercises and personalized training.
These exercises last 20 minutes a day — just the right amount of time to engage kids. Users can work on their memory, concentration and attention skills as well as creative thinking and problem-solving.
You can download MentalUP for free today. After seven days, you can then choose to continue learning with a subscription.
9. Brainwell
Brainwell is a great choice if you’re looking for a brain training app that works for everyone, from kids and seniors. Its simple and intuitive interface makes it easy to navigate, so you can dive right into its range of exercises without a learning curve.
However, some users might find the activities a bit repetitive over time, especially if you use the app daily. If you prefer a straightforward, no-frills approach to keeping your mind sharp, Brainwell is a reliable and accessible option for the whole family.
10. CogniFit
As one of the most in-depth and best brain training apps overall, CogniFit is an advanced platform for all kinds of learning. You’ll get training in short-term memory, hand-eye coordination and planning alongside the standard cognition areas.
The app will give you scores based on how well you do in each category. From there, you can see where you need to improve and where you can fine-tune your already stellar skills. With countless assessments, CogniFit is accurate and to the point.
You can download CogniFit for free today, then switch to a subscription should you choose.
Finding the Right App
As you search for the top apps for brain training, you should home in on which one will best fit your needs. If you’re looking for an app for your children, then MentalUP will be the best bet. If you’d like an app that covers unique skills like auditory perception, then CogniFit will be the one for you. Once you get the right app, you’ll be on your way to training your brain.
Original Publish Date 6/26/2023 — Updated 01/01/2025
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