What is the best massage gun?
A comprehensive comparison of the top percussion massage guns for muscle recovery, pain relief, and athletic performance. We evaluate power, noise levels, battery life, portability, and value to help you find the ideal massage gun for your needs.
After extensive testing and analysis, the Theragun Pro stands out as the best overall massage gun with its professional-grade power, ergonomic design, and smart features. The Hypervolt 2 Pro offers excellent value for those wanting premium performance at a lower price point, while the Bob and Brad D6 Pro provides the best budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential features.
Pros
- CPRO
Industry-leading 60 lbs of stall force
The Theragun Pro delivers professional-grade percussion therapy with 60 lbs of stall force, capable of reaching deep muscle tissue without stalling under pressure.
- LPRO
Adjustable multi-grip design
The patented rotating arm with multiple grip positions allows easy access to hard-to-reach areas like the lower back and shoulders without straining.
- NPRO
Bluetooth app with guided routines
The Therabody app provides personalized wellness routines, technique guidance, and device customization for an optimized recovery experience.
Cons
- PCON
Highest price in the category
At $599, the Theragun Pro represents a significant investment that may be difficult to justify for casual users or those new to percussion therapy.
- SCON
Weight may cause fatigue during extended use
At 2.9 lbs, the Pro is heavier than most competitors, which may lead to arm fatigue during longer massage sessions.
Pros
- MPRO
Patented QuietGlide technology
The Hypervolt 2 Pro utilizes Hyperice QuietGlide technology to deliver powerful percussion while maintaining whisper-quiet operation under 60 decibels.
- EPRO
Built-in pressure indicator
Real-time LED pressure sensor provides visual feedback to ensure optimal pressure application during treatment, preventing over or under-application.
- DPRO
HyperSmart app integration
Connects to the Hyperice app for guided routines, progress tracking, and personalized recovery programs based on activity level.
Cons
- CCON
Only 3 hours of continuous use
Battery life of 180 minutes is shorter than some competitors, requiring more frequent charging for heavy users.
- LCON
Cannot swap batteries on the go
Unlike the Theragun Pro, the Hypervolt 2 Pro does not have a swappable battery, limiting extended use without access to charging.
Pros
- NPRO
8 hours of continuous use
The Ekrin B37 offers class-leading 480 minutes of battery life, making it ideal for professionals who need extended use between charges.
- PPRO
Industry-best warranty coverage
Ekrin Athletics offers a lifetime warranty on the B37, demonstrating confidence in build quality and providing long-term peace of mind.
- SPRO
56 lbs of stall force
With 56 lbs of stall force, the B37 approaches professional-grade power at a fraction of the price of premium competitors.
Cons
- MCON
Newer brand in the market
As a smaller brand, Ekrin Athletics lacks the established reputation and extensive research backing of Therabody or Hyperice.
- ECON
Lacks smart connectivity features
Unlike premium competitors, the B37 does not offer Bluetooth connectivity or app-based guided routines and tracking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stall force measures how much pressure you can apply before the massage gun motor stops. Higher stall force (40-80 lbs) allows deeper tissue penetration without the device stalling out. Athletes and those with dense muscle tissue typically benefit from higher stall force, while casual users may find 30-40 lbs sufficient for general muscle relaxation.
For most users, 30 seconds to 2 minutes per muscle group is recommended. Start with lighter pressure and shorter durations, gradually increasing as your muscles adapt. Avoid using a massage gun on the same spot for more than 2 minutes to prevent bruising or tissue damage. Total session time typically ranges from 10-15 minutes.
While massage guns are generally safe for healthy adults, they should be avoided over bones, joints, nerves, and areas with inflammation, bruises, or wounds. People with blood clotting disorders, deep vein thrombosis, osteoporosis, or those taking blood thinners should consult a healthcare provider before use. Pregnant women should also seek medical advice before using percussion therapy devices.
Amplitude (measured in millimeters) refers to how deep the massage head travels into the muscle tissue, typically ranging from 10-16mm. Higher amplitude reaches deeper muscle layers. Percussion rate (measured in PPM - percussions per minute) indicates how fast the device strikes, usually between 1,200-3,200 PPM. Higher speeds provide more intense stimulation but are not necessarily better for all uses.
Budget massage guns ($100-150) like the Bob and Brad D6 Pro can effectively address most muscle recovery needs for casual users and fitness enthusiasts. Premium models ($300-600) offer advantages like higher stall force, quieter operation, better build quality, smart app connectivity, and ergonomic designs. Professional athletes, physical therapists, and those requiring frequent deep tissue work may benefit from investing in premium options.