Alpha Amino is a branch chain amino acid (BCAA) "formula that fuels endurance, hydration and recovery." According to webmd.com BCAAs "stimulate the building of protein in muscle and possibly reduce muscle breakdown."
I have also tried Cellucor's basic BCAAs and can say that the texture seems to be the same between the two (a fine powder that mixed easily in a shaker). Even the lemon line flavors taste almost identical. However, I do see a difference in the concentration power of the two. Personally, I feel that one scoop of the BCAAs is stronger in flavor than the Alphas. Alphas pack more of a punch with the variety of ingredients/supplementation offered though. So it would appear this is just a matter of personal preference as to which you choose. In my opinion, both are awesome!