Aminos are > than Protein.
when protein enters your body it has to be broken down into amino acids in order for it to be utilized.
so if you eat 100g of protein, only a portion of that will be effectively broken down into aminos, and absorbed. While the rest you will crap out.
Food > Protein > Aminos > Absorption
Aminos are thought to be nearly 100% absorption, since they don't require any additional digestive process to break down.
Aminos > Absorption
Its also important to note that not all amino acids are created equal. Certain Aminos will yield greater results than others, and the prices can also vary alot. You don't want to buy an Amino Powder just because it says it has a certain amino. Many powders will put just enough in for window dressing, although it will provide no benefit since the grams are too low. Aminos are not cheap, especially the good ones, so beware when you see a container of Aminos selling for almost nothing, as they are likely packing it with the cheap ones.
Make sure you do your homework on the various aminos, and understand the proper ratios, before you go out and just buy a tub because it says aminos on the label.