Researchers are currently busy developing methods to repair cartilage defects. They are, however, faced with several drawbacks. The rate of matrix production and proliferation are still points that could use optimization. In this study, two growth factors, transforming growth factor- β1 (TGF-β1) and bone morphogenetic protein-9 (BMP-9), were examined to research the differences in effect they induced in chondrocytes. The effects that were examined were based on their function as mitogenic and matrix-inducing agents. Chondrocyte pellets were formed, which were supplemented with either growth factor for a 10 day cultivation period. Both growth factors led to an increase in glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) production and proliferation rate compared to the control group. The growth factor BMP-9 resulted in a significant increase in both categories as compared to the TGF-β1 growth factor. This research discusses whether BMP-9 could be a potentially improved golden standard to replace the current, TGF-β1. This study concludes that, based on the production of the matrix component GAG and the proliferation optimization, BMP-9 would be an upgraded chondrocyte enhancer.