Mendi vs. FocusCalm
We compare two of the top-rated neurofeedback headsets on the market, Mendi and FocusCalm, to help you choose the product that’s right for you.
Introduction
There are dozens of neurofeedback devices for home use available today — all with slightly different features, benefits, and use of technology.
On this page, we take a closer look at the main differences between Mendi, a neurofeedback headset that uses fNIRS technology to measure blood flow and oxygenation in the prefrontal cortex (the PFC), and FocusCalm, a neurofeedback headset that uses EEG technology to measure electrical activity in your brain from the surface of your scalp.
Mendi vs. FocusCalm Comparison Chart
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Neurofeedback device |
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Measures brain activity |
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Safe and natural |
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Optimized for improving your ability to focus |
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Tracks heart rate |
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Focused view of prefrontal cortex brain activity |
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Measures blood flow to the cerebral cortex |
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Lab-grade measurement accuracy |
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Visual feedback of neurofeedback progress during sessions |
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Interactive focus games |
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All app content is free (no premium subscription fees) |
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Secure fit with adjustable headband |
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Requires wetting sensors for best signal |
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Signal artifacts from movement |
Mendi and fNIRS
fNIRS stands for Functional Near-infrared Spectroscopy. This technology was previously only available at medical clinics and outrageously expensive. Mendi has improved upon it and made it affordable and accessible.
By measuring blood flow and oxygenation in the prefrontal cortex, Mendi's use of fNIRS gives a fantastically accurate indicator of brain activity in the very area of the brain we want to measure, control and enhance.
FocusCalm and EEG
EEG stands for electroencephalography and it's a technique for recording “brain waves,” or more technically the electrical activity produced by the brain.
EEG and the FocusCalm headband is good at giving "an average score" of brain activity, but one of its major disadvantages is its inability to show exactly where in the brain the electrical activity is coming from.
Making the invisible visible.
By visualizing what your brain is doing in a ‘mirror', you can train it to become stronger, just like you train the muscles in your body.
Get a Mendi now to start your brain training journey
Measure your brain activity
The comfortable Mendi headband is fitted with non-intrusive sensors that bring your brain activity to life.
When you put the headband on, the sensors measure your oxygenated blood flow and neural activity.
Visualize and train your brain
See your brain activity visualized in Mendi’s training game. You control the game using only your brain, simply by focusing. Mendi makes brain training tangible and visible.
Make the ball rise and earn points. These are both signs you’re increasing your brain activity and strengthening your neural pathways. The goal? Better brain performance and mental well-being.
Track your progress and improve performance
Measure your progress, compare your results over time, and track specific improvements you’re seeing – whether it’s in your focus, mood, sleep, or something else.
Add tags and notes to your sessions to record your experiences and enhance your journey towards better brain health.
The tech, explained
Expert scientists recommend Mendi
Distinguished Research Associate, NASA
Some people may be skeptical now, but in 5-10 years no one will be.
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Senior Project Leader, The Aerospace Corporation (NASA)
What we know about the brain is that 'if you do not use it, you will lose it'. The brain needs to be trained and used. Brain training for astronauts will be a key factor for future space travel, which is why NASA is sponsoring the research with Mendi.
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Neuroscientist, Princeton University
Neurofeedback brain training has been proven to help with a wide range of cognitive functions - from focus and stress, to sleep and mood disorders. Perhaps most fundamentally, consistent training can be used by anyone to improve their brain’s physical health.
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Neuroscientist, Lund University
A good blood flow in the PFC (prefrontal cortex region of your brain) has been correlated with a general better health, memory and high performance. There’s also evidence that a brain that is more “fit” and with a lot of connections can slow down the onset of diseases.
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Get your Mendi now
Take your first steps to a healthier brain, improved ability to focus, and mental well-being.
