Comparison

NBack vs Span N

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

NBack

This scientifically validated cognitive training app is designed to enhance focus, memory, and problem-solving skills. It utilizes the dual n-back method, proven to increase fluid intelligence, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience for those seeking mental improvement.

Highlights
  • Scientifically validated cognitive training
  • Dual n-back method for fluid intelligence
  • Boosts memory and focus
  • Enhances problem-solving skills
  • Progress tracking with data-backed gains
  • Customizable user experience
Features
Read full description

The N-Back Challenge isn’t just a game.
 It’s a scientifically validated cognitive upgrade —
 engineered to boost your IQ in just 7 hours total. Built on Research. Designed for Results.
 Forget brain-training fluff.
 This is dual n-back — the only method proven to actually increase fluid intelligence, with results published in New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and other top journals. But here’s the truth:
 It’s brutal. It’s exhausting. It works. If you can complete 20 sessions, you may unlock:
 • Sharper memory
 • Faster learning
 • Enhanced problem-solving
 • Stronger focus under pressure Track your progress.
 See real gains — backed by data.
 All within a beautifully designed, customizable experience. This is not for everyone.
 But if you’re hungry to evolve,
The Challenge awaits. This app is only available in English. Privacy Policy: https://boostiq.app/privacypolicy.html Terms of Use: https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/itunes/dev/stdeula/

About

Span N

Features
Read full description

Train your brain with the gold standard of cognitive training. Span N-Back is a scientifically-designed working memory training app based on the dual n-back task — the only cognitive training method shown in peer-reviewed research to improve fluid intelligence. WHAT IS N-BACK TRAINING? The n-back task challenges you to remember sequences of positions and sounds, then identify when the current stimulus matches one from "n" steps back. It's simple to learn but progressively challenging, keeping your brain in the optimal training zone. WHY SPAN N-BACK? • Research-Based Design — Built on the Jaeggi dual n-back protocol used in cognitive science studies • Precision Timing — Sub-20ms stimulus accuracy for reliable training • Progressive Difficulty — Levels 1-9 adapt to your growing abilities • Dual Modality — Train visual and auditory working memory simultaneously • Detailed Analytics — Track accuracy, reaction time, and progress over time • Privacy First — All data stays on your device. No accounts, no tracking. WHO IS THIS FOR? Whether you're a student preparing for exams, a professional seeking mental edge, or anyone interested in cognitive fitness — consistent n-back training can help sharpen focus, improve working memory capacity, and enhance mental agility. FEATURES • Clean, distraction-free interface • Visual and audio training modes • Session history and performance tracking • Export your data (JSON/CSV) • Dark mode support • Designed for daily practice Start with 2-back and work your way up. Just 15-20 minutes daily can make a difference. Download Span N-Back and train smarter.

Screenshots

NBack4 screens
Span N4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is in-app purchases: Span N at none against NBack's 2. On price, ads, device support and iOS requirement there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Both are free to download. NBack sells 2 in-app purchases, starting at $1.99 per month. Span N asks for nothing beyond the download.

Scorecard1 real difference · 9 level
NBack versus Span N: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterNBackSpan N
PriceFreeFree
Rating5.0 (1 ratings) — better—
Positive reviews100.0% of reviews—
Number of ratings1 — better—
Update frequencyEvery 2 months—
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesYesNo — better
MonetizationFreemium—
DevicesiPhone, iPad, iPod — betteriPhone, iPad
Requires iOS15.1 — better16.0
Further details — not scored
Size44 MB3 MB
Age rating4+4+
Developereric cesarJerzy Plocha

In-app purchases

2 purchases

NBack

Subscriptions2
  • Monthly membership$1.991 Month
  • Yearly membership$14.991 Year
None

Span N

No in-app purchases

Questions

Is NBack free?
NBack is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Is Span N free?
Span N is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Do NBack or Span N have ads?
Neither NBack nor Span N shows ads.

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