Which Ramen Brand Is Better: Nissin Or Maruchan?

When comparing the cost, availability, overall flavor, and noodle quality of Nissin and Maruchan instant ramen, there is one clear winner: Maruchan.

Both brands offer packet ramen that is notoriously affordable, with a pack of Nissin ramen costing around $.79 and a packet of Maruchan costing about $.69.

Nissin's Top Ramen has a light to moderate salt balance with a slightly silky broth. Meanwhile, Maruchan's has a delicious beef flavor, good salt balance, and great noodles.

When it comes to cup ramen, Maruchan continues to be the more economical option, with a price point around $.69, while Nissin's cup noodle is around $1.19.

Maruchan's cup noodles are thin and semi-flat with a looser coiling, a moderate bite, and a chewy, silky feel. Nissin's noodles are tight, springy coils with a moderate chew.

Maruchan's Hot & Spicy Shrimp Ramen Bowl costs $1.89 and Nissin's Hot & Spicy Fiery Beef Ramen Bowl is $1.79, so Nissin wins this round when it comes to price.

For the first time, the brands tie in flavor. Nissin's spicy beef ramen bowl has a great flavor but lacks noodle integrity, while Maruchan's spicy ramen bowl has better noodles.