Neuralink vs Paradromics

October 14, 2025
Neuralink ($1.3B)
Neuralink
Paradromics ($108.4M)
Paradromics
Neuralink and Paradromics are both American BCI startups developing invasive brain implants. They use high-density electrode arrays to record cortical activity and then decode it into speech or cursor movements using AI/ML algorithms. Both companies initially aim to help people with paralysis, BAS and speech loss.

But Neuralink (founded in 2016) is Elon Musk's company, that develops not only the implant (N1) but also the surgical robot for its precise implantation (R1). The N1 has more than twice as many electrodes as Paradromics'. The implant is placed completely under the skin and transmits data wirelessly, improving the patient experience. The company has already implanted it in several patients and demonstrated the ability to control a computer cursor, play video games and type text by the power of thought. The company uses machine learning to recognize spikes and decode intent (cursor/click/tap).

Paradromics (2015) emphasizes the implant's extreme high data throughput and long-term medical use without the need for reinstallation. Although their implant has fewer electrodes, the company claims its technology is easily scalable. The implant uses optical communication through the skin and inductive power. The company uses AI to decode large amounts of neural data at the level of individual neurons to recognize intentions at the brain's natural speed. The first human recordings were conducted and publicly announced in 2025.
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Editor: Siddhant Patel
Siddhant Patel is a senior editor for AI-Startups. He is based out of India and has previously worked at publications including Huffington Post and The Next Web. Siddhant has a special interest in artificial intelligence and has spent a decade covering the rapidly-evolving business and technology of the industry. Siddhant graduated from the Indian Institute of Science (Bengaluru). When he’s not writing, Siddhant is also a developer and has a deep historical knowledge of the computer industry for the past 50 years. You can contact Siddhant at sidpatel(at)ai-startups(dot)pro