I haven't taken either of the tests, but I studied for the College algebra for 2 weeks and after downloading the official study guide I realized that passing the CLEP was not an option for me. I didn't have a choice between one or the other (math or algebra), so I enrolled in a course and it's the most challenging course I've ever taken in my life.

Someone who has recently been in high school taking algebra I and II could probably easily pass the algebra exam, but for anyone who has been out of school for many years, it's my opinion that you have a far better chance of self-study and passing the general math exam. The concepts of college algebra are extremely tough to grasp from just reading. My 2 weeks of pre-self-study barely prepared me to take the actual course.

~Bee