The short answer
Take the free official ETS PowerPrep tests for a baseline. Then build stamina and pacing with a larger set of realistic, timed, section-adaptive mocks. If you want full mock tests without a subscription, GRE Success lets you buy exactly the number of tests you need, with explanations and essay scoring included.
Side-by-side comparison
Competitor details summarised from public information; prices and plans change, always check each provider before buying.
| Criteria | GRE Success | ETS PowerPrep | Magoosh | Manhattan Prep |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Pay per test: €19 for 1, up to €89 for 10 | 2 free tests; paid PLUS tests sold individually | Subscription (multi-month plans) | Course or test-pack purchase |
| Full-length mock tests | 10 | 2 free + paid PLUS | Included in plan | Included in pack |
| Shorter GRE format (since 2023) | ||||
| Section-adaptive difficulty | ||||
| Step-by-step explanation on every question | Limited | |||
| Essay scoring on the 0–6 rubric | Paid add-on | |||
| No subscription needed | ||||
| Access expires | Never | Varies by product | When plan ends | Varies by product |
| Best for | Volume of realistic timed mocks | Official baseline | Lessons + drills from scratch | Hard Quant drilling |
Why full mock tests matter most
Topic drills teach content. Only complete, timed tests train what decides your score on test day: pacing across sections, stamina for two hours, and handling a harder second section after a strong first one.
ETS gives you an authentic baseline but very few tests. That’s why most students add a second source of realistic mocks.
What you get inside GRE Success
A look at the test interface, your score report and essay feedback.
Real exam interface, section timer, question navigator, mark-for-review and on-screen calculator for Quant.
Illustrative example. Scaled scores and topic accuracy after every test.
- Position & reasoningClear thesis; second example needs deeper analysis.
- OrganisationLogical paragraphs; add transitions between points.
- Language & mechanicsPrecise vocabulary; minor grammar slips.
Illustrative example of feedback on each essay.
Buy only the tests you need
1, 3, 5 or 10 full tests, from €19. Pick your pack and start in under a minute.
Get started
Each option, honestly
ETS PowerPrep
Made by the test-maker, so it’s the most authentic baseline. The catch: very few tests, and limited explanations. Take the free ones early and near test day.
Magoosh
A strong lesson-and-video subscription if you’re starting from scratch and have months to prepare. Less efficient if your main need is full-length timed practice.
Manhattan Prep
Known for challenging Quant. Good for drilling hard math; often bundled with courses that cost more than students need for mock practice alone.
GRE Success
Built for one job: realistic shorter-GRE mock tests. 10 full adaptive tests, step-by-step explanations on every question, essay scoring, and per-test pricing with no expiry.
FAQ
What is the best GRE practice test?
Use ETS PowerPrep for an official baseline, then a larger bank of realistic, timed, section-adaptive mock tests for volume. GRE Success offers 10 full shorter-GRE mocks with explanations and essay scoring, bought per test.
How many GRE practice tests should I take?
Most students benefit from 4–6 full-length timed tests over their prep, reviewing every mistake between attempts. Students aiming for big score jumps often take 8–10.
Are Magoosh practice tests enough?
Magoosh is strongest as a lesson-and-drill subscription. If you mainly need full-length timed mock exams, a dedicated test platform is usually better value.
Do GRE Success tests expire?
No. Tests you unlock stay on your account, no subscription required for test packs.
Ready for realistic GRE practice?
Choose 1, 3, 5 or 10 full tests. No subscription, no expiry.