While the best pre-workout supplements can certainly add some spark to your training through their included stimulants, these formulations can sometimes lack when it comes to focus and mental clarity. Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout packs servings of both alpha-GPC and ashwagandha to help bolster your brain power mid-workout. (1)(2) The 200 milligrams of caffeine anhydrous can also be an effective dosage for beginner athletes just getting used to pre-workout supplementation.
For those wanting a cognitive boost more so than a singular kick of energy, Alpha-BRAIN can be an effective powder, in our opinion. However, the formulation is expensive, and there are fewer flavor options compared to other supplements offering similar caffeine and nootropic servings. In this Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout review, we’ll go over this popular supplement’s full formulation as well as its real-world qualities like taste and solubility. For more information on how we test supplements for our content, be sure to read our BarBend supplement testing methodology page.
Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Workout boasts a unique formula aimed to increase energy and focus. Choose between two flavors and several subscription options to save money.
Medical Disclaimer: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.
Main Takeaways
- The 200 milligrams of caffeine per serving can be an approachable dosage for pre-workout novices.
- This pre-workout powder is available in two different flavors, which is lower than other supplements within the category offering up to 14 different tastes.
- Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout is not the same formulation as Onnit’s original Alpha-BRAIN, which included more ingredients designed for improved mental clarity and cognitive function.
Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Workout Specs
| Price Per Serving | $3 |
| Caffeine Per Serving | 200mg |
| Key Ingredients | Beta alanine, l-citrulline, ashwagandha extract, caffeine anhydrous, alpha-glyceryl phosphoryl choline, theobromine, methylliberine powder |
| Sweeteners Used | Stevia, monk fruit extract |
| Available Flavors | Tiger’s Blood, Yuzu Peach |
| Third-Party Testing | None |
Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout is a branch of Onnit’s Alpha-BRAIN series, the brand’s dietary supplement lineup designed to boost cognitive performance. In addition to this pre-workout powder, Alpha-BRAIN can be found in capsules, instant sticks, and ready-to-drink shots. While all formulations contain nootropic ingredients, such as ashwagandha and alpha-GPC, the original Alpha-BRAIN has added servings of additional compounds, like cat’s claw extract for inflammation and immune system support, toothed clubmoss, and huperzine A for improved cognitive function. (3)(4)(5)
You can find Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout in 20-serving tubs with costs per serving starting at about $3. This is double the cost of some of the best cheap pre-workouts that typically clock in between $1 to $1.50 per serving. That said, Onnit does offer a ‘Subscribe & Save’ service that offers 25% off future auto-ship orders.
As a pre-workout, the Alpha-BRAIN supplement contains 200 milligrams of caffeine anhydrous, which is par for the course in terms of pre-workouts. Plus, this formulation is well within the FDA’s 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, making it a good option for beginners just getting used to pre-workouts as an energy source. (6)
Other common pre-workout ingredients in this mixture include 2.4 grams of beta-alanine and 2.4 grams of l-citrulline. “While the citrulline serving is underdosed per recent studies, I still feel this combination does work well together,” notes Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, registered dietitian nutritionist and BarBend expert contributor. (7)(8) “You can expect a good pump from this pre-workout, for sure.”
Of course, though, the highlight of this formulation is the 225 milligrams of ashwagandha and 125 milligrams of alpha-glyceryl phosphoryl choline (alpha-GPC). These ingredients may help give athletes the benefits of nootropics, which is Alpha-BRAIN’s main selling point. “The included ashwagandha can be great for managing stress during high-intensity workouts, and the alpha-GPC has been shown to boost motivation and cognitive function,” Bourgeois adds. (1)(2)
Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout is rounded out with natural ingredients, including stevia or monk fruit extract, depending on your flavor of choice. Bourgeois notes, though, that this formulation does contain three proprietary blends, which can add a layer of mystery to the purity and actual performance of this pre-workout powder.
Speaking of flavors, Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout is available in two varieties — Yuzu Peach and Tiger’s Blood. From our testers, the tastes are both enjoyable, although they preferred Tiger’s Blood a bit more, as the Yuzu Peach was a little bitter. However, other pre-workout powders can offer dozens of flavors, which does put Onnit at a disadvantage.
Lastly, this popular pre-workout supplement does not carry any third-party certification, which can be a detriment to strength athletes wanting a clean formulation. While the brand claims that “many” of its products are continually third-party tested for purity and banned substances, there is no information or certifying stamps found on the Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout product page.
Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Workout
While we’ve ranked Onnit Alpha-BRAIN amongst some of the best pre-workouts for focus, we understand it may not be the best pick for every athlete out there. Below are a few camps we feel could benefit from adding this gluten-free, sugar-free pre-workout to their regimen, along with a handful of groups that may want to look elsewhere for their pre-training energy needs.
Recommended for:
- Healthy adults looking to keep caffeine intake at or below the FDA’s 400-milligram recommended daily allowance
- Athletes wanting a pre-workout with cognitive benefits for boosted brain function during training sessions
- Individuals sensitive to artificial sweeteners
Not Recommended for:
- Budget-minded athletes looking for a budget-friendly pre-workout supplement
- Individuals wanting a dedicated nootropic supplement to support brain health and cognitive function
- Those wanting a pre-workout with vast flavor options
Our Experience Using Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Workout
We’ve tested more than 100 different pre-workouts over the years, covering every subcategory from the best pre-workouts for muscle gain to pre-workouts for weight loss, pumps, CrossFit and more. We applied those sample testing tactics to this Alpha-BRAIN review, examining the powder’s full formulation as well as its real-world qualities, like taste, solubility, and affordability. To make our findings a little more digestible, we’ve given Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout a rating for each tested category on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).
Ingredients and Formulation
Let’s get this out of the way — Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout is NOT a direct substitute for Onnit’s Alpha-BRAIN supplement for memory and focus. This formulation does not feature the brand’s ‘Onnit Flow Blend,’ containing phosphatidylserine or oat straw extract, ‘Onnit Focus Blend’ with huperzia serrata (huperzine A), or the ‘Onnit Fuel Blend,’ which contains the essential amino acid l-leucine as well as pterostilbene. Rather, Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout is more of a basic supplement with a few nootropics added in. If you’re looking for a supplement containing more cognition-focused ingredients, we recommend the original capsules.
Editor’s Note: Onnit also produces Alpha-BRAIN Black Label, which is the brand’s premium nootropic blend with added ingredients such as lion’s mane, an adaptogenic mushroom that studies have correlated with improved mental performance in humans. (9)
Speaking solely to the Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout formulation, we appreciate the dosages of caffeine, l-citrulline, and beta-alanine. The 200 milligrams of caffeine anhydrous is within the FDA’s recommended daily allowance of up to 400 milligrams, and the citrulline (albeit under the 3-gram recommended serving) and beta-alanine can work well together to produce that “pumped up” sensation you feel during training. (6)(7)(8)
Plus, our testers report that the skin tingling is manageable and not overbearing. “You get a little bit of tingles, but I view it more as a cue that the powder is working its magic rather than an annoyance mid-training,” notes our tester, a certified personal trainer.
We also rank Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout amongst some of the best natural pre-workouts given its use of natural ingredients over artificial compounds. For example, you can expect either monk fruit extract or stevia as the main sweetening agent in this powder, which may be more beneficial for athletes sensitive to artificial sweeteners or added sugars.
Of course, though, we’d be remiss to not mention the brain-boosting effects of Alpha-BRAIN’s formulation. As a certified nutrition coach, I can attest to the “flow state” brought on by the ashwagandha and alpha-GPC, which help create a locked-in experience during training. In my experience, even during high-stress leg workouts or grueling cardio sessions, workouts feel more manageable and everything seems to operate without confusion. Studies also support these nootropic ingredients, claiming they may help improve focus and stress management. (1)(2)
That said, while we appreciate the heightened processing speed of these cognitive sharpeners as well as the slight stimulation from the 200 milligrams of caffeine, we still rate the formulation at 3.25 out of 5. “I’d really like to see this mixture without so many proprietary blends,” notes Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, registered dietitian nutritionist and our expert contributor. “Having proprietary blends can lead to questioning in regards to the true potency of the formulation, and the lack of third-party testing information doesn’t necessarily bode well for any further claims. Additionally, I scored this pre-workout as such given the lower-than-recommended serving of l-citrulline.”
Taste
In terms of taste, Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout is available in Tiger’s Blood, a tropical flavor with hints of coconut and berries, as well as Yuzu Peach. Our testers were able to trial both offerings, with Tiger’s Blood taking the top spot as our preferred variation. “In my opinion, the Yuzu Peach was just a little too bitter. You can certainly get the mixture down, but I wouldn’t necessarily turn to it for everyday energy boosts,” states our one tester.
Having tried both variations myself, I agree that Tiger’s Blood is the tastiest option, although I wouldn’t say Yuzu Peach was off-putting. It has a welcomed bite to it that I feel could be appealing to athletes, especially those that’ve worn their taste buds thin with classic Blue Raspberry and Lemon Lime varieties from other brands. Perhaps I’m swayed by knowing the brain health benefits of the formulation, but it’s a tasty addition to a light pre-workout meal, nonetheless.
We do score Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout’s taste at 3 out of 5, though, given the mixed reviews on flavor as well as the lack of more variety. We’ve had other pre-workouts that offer up to 14 different taste variations, allowing athletes to play around with palate-pleasing picks without skewing from the base formulation too much. With this Onnit offering, you get just two options.
Solubility
While Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout certainly has mental-boosting ingredients within the formulation, one of the biggest dopamine hits I get from this powder is when it mixes perfectly in my best shaker bottle. There’s no sense of settling or residue, and I see no “floaties” that can be commonplace with other supplements.
We rate the solubility at 5 out of 5, too, given the smooth consistency of this beverage that takes little to concoct. “After three or four jostles of my shaker cup, the powder is efficiently dissolved,” notes our tester, a certified personal trainer. This can be beneficial for athletes taking their pre-workout on the go or those that need to hurriedly mix up a pre-training blend before hitting the weights or cardio room.
Price Per Serving
Unfortunately, Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout does not come cheap when it comes to getting those neurotransmitters fired up for training. The cost per serving equates to roughly $3, which is nearly double the average $1.85 per serving of other high-quality pre-workout supplements. Plus, you can only purchase Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout in 20-serving tubs, meaning that you’ll need to replenish your stocks more often if consuming this powder every day. As such, we rate this dietary supplement at 1 out of 5 for the category.
Thankfully, though, Onnit does offer a ‘Subscribe & Save’ service that can, at least, discount the total price — provided you don’t mind auto-ship orders. The brand offers a 25% price cut for repeat deliveries, and shipping cadences can be chosen for every 7, 15, 20, 30, 45, 60, or 90 days.
Third Party Testing
While Onnit’s Alpha-BRAIN Memory & Focus capsules have been the subject of previous clinical trials, Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout does not have any indicating markers that it’s been third-party tested. (10) The brand does state that “many” of its products have been third-party approved for athletes, but we do not see any stamps of approval across this pre-workout’s product page or labeling. We err on the side of caution here and rate Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout at 1 out of 5 for third-party testing.
What to Consider Before Buying Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Workout
Whether looking for the best pre-workout for CrossFit, a formulation for mental focus, or a high-stim option to really get the juices flowing, there are multiple factors worth considering before deciding on a pre-workout supplement for your regimen. Below are a few key items we recommend keeping top of mind before adding a flavorful formulation to your online cart.
- Key Ingredients: It can be beneficial to scan your supplement’s ingredients list prior to purchase in order to check for any underserved compounds. Many common pre-workout ingredients, such as the best natural pre-workout ingredients, will have RDAs or upper intakes levied to them, so look to ensure your formulation is capable of delivering effective dosages with each serving.
- Caffeine Per Serving: The FDA recommends up to 400 milligrams of caffeine daily for healthy adults, so be sure that your pre-workout of choice doesn’t place you over this threshold. (6) Calculate how much caffeine you regularly consume throughout the day and see how your preferred powder affects those metrics.
- Available Flavors: It can be a hassle to consume pre-workout supplements that aren’t pleasing to your palate. Look for supps that cater to your personal tastes. We also recommend choosing a pre-workout with a handful of enjoyable flavors, as this can help add some variety to your regimen without skewing from the foundational formulation too aggressively.
- Third-Party Testing: Amy Goodson MS, RD, CSSD, LD, states, “It’s best to opt for supplements that have been third-party tested for quality, potency, and purity. Dietary supplements aren’t regulated by the FDA, so having this extra sense of security can be vital, especially for strength athletes that need to abide by governing agencies of their respective sport.”
[Related: Ultimate Guide to Pre-Workouts]
Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Workout Vs. Competitors
As you can probably assume, Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout is not the only powder on the market. There exists a wide range of pre-workout supplements, each with their own perks and benefits. Below, we’ve crafted a side-by-side chart detailing key specs of two comparable powders to Alpha-BRAIN — BULK from Transparent Labs and Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout.
| Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Workout | Transparent Labs BULK | Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout | |
| Price Per Serving | $3 | $1.67 | Starting at $0.63 |
| Caffeine Per Serving | 200mg | 200mg | 300mg |
| Key Ingredients | Beta alanine, l-citrulline, ashwagandha extract, caffeine anhydrous, alpha-glyceryl phosphoryl choline, theobromine, methylliberine powder | Citrulline malate, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, taurine, l-tyrosine, alpha-glyceryl phosphoryl choline, organic caffeine, l-theanine, theobromine, black pepper fruit extract, boron | L-citrulline, beta-alanine, taurine, betaine anhydrous, caffeine anhydrous, n-acetyl l-tyrosine, alpha-GPC, DMAE bitartrate, CDP choline, theobromine, huperzine A |
| Sweeteners Used | Stevia, monk fruit extract | Stevia | Sucralose |
| Available Flavors | Tiger’s Blood, Yuzu Peach | Strawberry Lemonade, Strawberry Kiwi, Pina Colada, Blue Raspberry, Black Cherry, Peach Mango, Tropical Punch, Sour Grape, Watermelon, Watermelon Peach, Cherry Splash, Blueberry Pomegranate | Blue Raspberry, Watermelon, Fruit Punch, Grape, Peach Mango |
| Third-Party Testing | None | Yes (Informed Choice) | Yes (certifying lab not listed) |
As a high-quality pre-workout in its own right, Transparent Labs BULK pre-workout delivers a similar caffeine count to Alpha-BRAIN, along with common ingredients like l-tyrosine, l-theanine, and more. Plus, this TL pre-workout is third-party tested by Informed Choice and is available at a lower cost per serving. However, the presence of stevia can lead to gastrointestinal distress in some athletes. (11)
For a budget-friendly pre-workout, we often recommend Nutricost Pre-X thanks to its cost per serving that starts at roughly $0.63. There are also five flavors to choose from — a step up from Onnit’s two listed tastes. We also appreciate that Pre-X is third-party tested, although there is a bit of mystery with this claim as the certifying lab is not listed on Nutricost’s website.
Places to Buy Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Workout
You can find Onnit’s Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout directly from the brand’s retail website. We’ve also found this popular pre-workout supplement from third-party retailers including GNC and Amazon.
Customer Experience and Brand Reputation
Based in Austin, Texas and founded by Aubrey Marcus, Onnit produces some of the best protein powders, creatine supplements, pre-workouts, and general wellness supplements we’ve tested here at BarBend. In addition to nutritional supplements, Onnit manufactures strength training equipment from kettlebells to maces, clubs, and more. The brand is a popular name in fitness with endorsements from celebrities and professional athletes alike, such as Joe Rogan, who regularly mentions Onnit on his successful podcast. Onnit can be reached for inquiries at the ‘Contact Link’ located at the bottom of onnit.com.
In terms of customer reviews, Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout currently boasts a 3.8 out of 5 on the brand’s retail site based on 77 customer responses. “Significant boost to my workouts without a major caffeine crash, afterwards,” notes one positive customer response.
Our Final Verdict on Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Workout
If you’re looking for a quick ticket to workout enhancement, we feel Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout can deliver. The formulation features a beginner-friendly 200 milligrams of caffeine, and the inclusion of ashwagandha and alpha-GPC, some of the best nootropic ingredients, can be a helpful boost to your in-gym focus and brain performance. While the price is high when compared to other pre-workouts out there, we feel the mental clarity and appealing flavors are enough to warrant the heightened cost.
Regardless of your intentions with your pre-workout of choice, it can always be helpful to give the ingredients list a quick scan to ensure your caffeine is within FDA recommendations and that common pre-workout additives are served at high-quality dosages. (6) We also recommend choosing a supplement with multiple (appealing) flavors as this can help defend against flavor fatigue over time. Stick to your budget, use these notes as guidance, and get ready to charge up for future workouts sessions ahead.
Onnit Alpha-BRAIN Pre-Workout FAQs
Does Onnit Alpha-BRAIN work?
pre-workout does give you a noticeable boost in energy and focus prior to training. The 200 milligrams of caffeine per serving are within the FDA’s recommended daily allowance of up to 400 milligrams, and studies report that the included nootropics (ashwagandha and alpha-GPC) can benefit cognitive function by enhancing focus and managing stress during intense workout sessions. (1)(2)(6)
How much does Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout cost?
Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout is available in 20-serving tubs for roughly $3 per serving. Additionally, the brand offers a ‘Subscribe & Save’ service that features a 25% discount on all future auto-ship orders.
How long does it take for Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout to kick in?
Per the label instructions, Onnit Alpha-BRAIN pre-workout can take effect between 20 and 30 minutes after consumption. Our personal testing experiences align with this timeline, too, as our expert testers noticed improved energy and focus roughly 20 minutes after downing their blended beverage before getting into their workout sessions.
References
- Parker, A. G., Byars, A., Purpura, M., & Jäger, R. (2015). The effects of alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine, caffeine or placebo on markers of mood, cognitive function, power, speed, and agility. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 12(sup1). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4595381/
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Office of dietary supplements – ashwagandha: Is it helpful for stress, anxiety, or sleep?. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Ashwagandha-HealthProfessional/
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Cat’s Claw: Usefulness and Safety. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cats-claw
- Toothed clubmoss. Vital.ly. (n.d.). https://www.vital.ly/trc/Toothed-clubmoss/monograph=339/
- Qian, Z. M., & Ke, Y. (2014). Huperzine A: Is it an effective disease-modifying drug for alzheimerâ€TMS disease? Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 6. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4137276/
- Commissioner, O. of the. (2024, August 28). Spilling the beans: How much caffeine is too much?. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/spilling-beans-how-much-caffeine-too-much
- Gonzalez, A. M., & Trexler, E. T. (2020). Effects of citrulline supplementation on exercise performance in humans: A review of the current literature. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 34(5), 1480–1495. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31977835/
- Ostfeld, I., & Hoffman, J. R. (2023). The effect of β-alanine supplementation on performance, cognitive function and resiliency in soldiers. Nutrients, 15(4), 1039. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36839397/
- Mori, K., Inatomi, S., Ouchi, K., Azumi, Y., & Tuchida, T. (2008). Improving effects of the mushroom yamabushitake (hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: A double‐blind placebo‐controlled clinical trial. Phytotherapy Research, 23(3), 367–372. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18844328/
- Solomon, T. M., Leech, J., deBros, G. B., Murphy, C. A., Budson, A. E., Vassey, E. A., & Solomon, P. R. (2016). A randomized, double‐blind, placebo controlled, parallel group, Efficacy Study of Alpha Brain® administered orally. Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental, 31(2), 135–143. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26876224/
- Kasti, A., Nikolaki, M., Synodinou, K., Katsas, K., Petsis, K., Lambrinou, S., Pyrousis, I., & Triantafyllou, K. (2022). The effects of stevia consumption on gut bacteria: Friend or foe? Microorganisms, 10(4), 744. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9028423/
