All Comparisons
2026 Comparison

Brain.fm vs NSDR

Brain.fm is the market leader in functional music with patented neural phase locking. But at $6.99/month, is it worth it when NSDR offers free focus music with binaural beats?

Quick Verdict

Brain.fm has more advanced audio technology and a larger music library. But NSDR is completely free, requires no account, and uniquely combines focus music with NSDR recovery protocols and a built-in Pomodoro timer. For most people, NSDR delivers everything they need to focus without the $84/year price tag.

N

NSDR is best for

People who want free focus music with binaural beats, NSDR recovery sessions, and a Pomodoro timer without creating an account

B

Brain.fm is best for

Users who want the largest possible music library, adaptive AI music, and are willing to pay for patented neural phase locking technology

Feature Comparison

Side-by-Side Breakdown

Price

NSDRFree
Brain.fm$6.99/mo

Binaural Beats

NSDR
Brain.fm

Neural Phase Locking

NSDR
Brain.fm

Focus Tracks

NSDR5 curated
Brain.fm1000+

NSDR Recovery Protocols

NSDR
Brain.fm

Pomodoro Timer

NSDR
Brain.fm

Account Required

NSDR
Brain.fm

Works Without Headphones

NSDR
Brain.fm

Offline Mode

NSDR
Brain.fm

Mobile App

NSDRWeb app
Brain.fmiOS & Android

Scientific Research

NSDRBinaural beat studies
Brain.fmNature publication

Free Trial

NSDRFree forever
Brain.fm14 days
Detailed Analysis

How They Stack Up

The Science Behind the Sound

Brain.fm and NSDR take different scientific approaches to helping you focus. Both have research backing, but they work through different mechanisms.

N
NSDR
Uses binaural beats to promote beta and gamma brainwave entrainment for focus
Binaural beats embedded in pleasant lo-fi music for an enjoyable listening experience
Research shows gamma-frequency (40Hz) binaural beats enhance attentional focusing and working memory
Open about the science — we explain exactly how binaural beats work and their limitations
B
Brain.fm
Patented neural phase locking applies amplitude modulations directly to audio
Published study in Nature Communications Biology showing 119% boost in focus-associated beta brainwaves
Received the first NSF grant to create music for ADHD support
Uses multiple methods simultaneously for stronger neural synchrony than binaural beats alone

Music Library & Experience

The listening experience differs significantly between the two platforms. Brain.fm offers breadth, while NSDR focuses on a curated, purposeful experience.

N
NSDR
5 carefully curated focus tracks with binaural beats layered into lo-fi music
NSDR recovery library for post-focus restoration — unique in this space
No account or setup required — open the browser and start focusing immediately
Integrated Pomodoro timer creates a complete focus-rest-focus workflow
B
Brain.fm
Massive library of AI-generated functional music across multiple genres
Music adapts in real-time based on user preferences and listening patterns
Separate modes for focus, relaxation, and sleep with different neural targets
Works without headphones thanks to direct amplitude modulation approach

Focus + Recovery: The Complete System

Focus isn't just about the work session — it's about recovery too. This is where NSDR offers something no competitor matches.

N
NSDR
Only platform combining focus music with NSDR recovery protocols in one place
Science-backed recovery: NSDR targets theta and alpha waves for deep restoration
Pomodoro workflow: focus with binaural beats, then recover with NSDR, then repeat
Recovery is the missing piece — no other focus music app addresses post-focus restoration
B
Brain.fm
Offers relaxation and sleep modes, but doesn't frame recovery as part of productivity
No guided relaxation or body-scan protocols included
No built-in timer or work-rest cycle management
Focused purely on the music experience rather than a complete workflow
Pricing

What You'll Pay

Best Value

NSDR

Focus Music + NSDR

$0/forever
5 focus tracks with binaural beats
Full NSDR protocol library
Pomodoro timer integration
No account required
Web-based, no download
Try Free Now

Brain.fm

Subscription Required

$6.99/month

That's $84/year for features NSDR offers free

Pricing as of February 2026. Subject to change.

FAQ

Common Questions

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