A massage gun is a hand-held device that uses rapid pulses of pressure to massage the muscles. It typically has a handle and a head that can be pressed against the skin, delivering pressure to the muscles through a rapid pounding motion.
- 1 Advantages and disadvantages of massage gun
- 2 What You Should Know About Massage Guns
- 3 How To Use a Massage Gun
- 4 Who Should Get a Massage Gun?
- 5 What Is the Best Massage Gun?
- 6 How Often Should You Use a Massage Gun?
- 7 What Is the Best Budget Massage Gun?
- 8 What Is the Best Massage Gun for Travel?
- 9 What Is ‘Depth’ in Terms of Massage Guns?
- 10 How Much Should You Pay for a Massage Gun?
- 11 Can you travel with massage guns?
- 12 What are massage guns best used for?
- 13 Is massage gun better than massage?
- 14 Is it OK to use a massage gun every day?
- 15 Can a massage gun damage muscle?
- 16 What happens if you use a massage gun for too long?
Massage guns are often used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts to help relieve muscle soreness and stiffness, improve circulation, and reduce tension in the body. Some massage guns also come with different attachments that can be used to target specific muscle groups.These devices can be a convenient way to get a massage without the need for a therapist, and can be used at home or on the go.
10 Best Massage Guns in 2023:Our choice
Here is an abbreviated list of our favorites. Keep reading for detailed product specs and our favorite features of each of these massage guns:
Pros
- Easy to hold and operate
- Great for massaging yourself and others
- Impressive ergonomic design
- Great for serious athletes
Cons
- Twice as expensive as our favorite budget massagers
We’ve said it before, and we’ll keep saying it as long as it’s true: if you’re going to splurge on a massage gun, you should buy a Theragun. Therabody consistently makes the best massage guns according to our tests, and Theragun Prime offers the best mix of power and value. The Theragun Prime is Therabody’s flagship model, and we found it a powerful tool for workout recovery and relaxing deep tissue massages at home. We’ve tested the entire Theragun line of massagers, and we think Prime is the best option for most people.
Whether you want to use this as a self-massage tool or give a massage to a client or partner, the ergonomic design makes the Theragun Prime easy to operate and control. We prefer the dial-based controls of the Hypervolt 2 Pro, but on balance, we believe this is the best massage gun available today.
Pros
- Incredible battery life
- Extra intense settings
- High-quality massage heads
- Attractive LED display
Cons
- $100 more expensive than Theragun Prime
- Highest speed settings will be too intense for casual users
The Hypervolt 2 Pro also has a high price tag, but it marries an incredible design with a powerful motor, plus thoughtful features that kept us returning repeatedly. Like the Theragun Prime, it has five speeds, the two fastest of which the average user probably won’t be compelled to use. It has an LED battery level indicator light that wraps around the bottom of the handle, a visually effective feature, and the speed dial on the back streamlines the process of using it more than any other gun we’ve tried. By comparison, the Theragun has button-based speed controls, and adjusting it while the gun is vibrating can be unpleasant.
Hyperice’s massage gun heads, which come with the Hypervolt 2 and 2 Pro, are the best we’ve found. If you prefer the “T” shaped design of traditional massage guns over the triangle design of Theragun, we recommend opting for the Hypervolt line of massage guns instead. Finally, the new generation of Hypervolt guns features a silicone grip handle that makes it easy to hold for long periods.
3.Massage Gun, Muscle Therapy Gun for Athletes
Cholas cordless fascia massage gun deeply relieves stiffness of muscles by providing powerful percussive massage therapy. It can improve the overall health of the body’s soft tissues, prevent inflammation which caused by adhesion between the fascia and muscles. The powerful massager is suitable for everyone from professional athletes to recreational gym-goers
Cholas deep tissue muscle massager comes with 10 replacement heads and Handheld design allow you to reach every muscle. 10 massage heads to meet all muscle relaxation needs. provides a relaxing massage experience.Activate the muscles. greatly reduce muscle recovery time.
This massager gun adopts high-quality motor, it have 30 Adjustable vibration mode. You can adjust the frequency according to the different parts of the massage.the high-precision mould connected the machine head and the body tightly, Our percussion massager equipped with LCD touch screen showing speed levels.You can easily find the vibration amplitude that suits you best.
8 replaceable massage heads to provide pure wave massage to any muscle group. Plus, the set includes a suitcase simplifying storage and transportation.
Adjust the vibration frequency and apply pressure to your needs – relaxation or muscle toning. Muscle relaxation after exercise or a daily body massage can easily find the vibration amplitude that suits you best.
5.Ekrin Athletics B37 Massage Gun
The Ekrin B37, with its five speeds and four attachments, performed pretty fine if not outstandingly throughout testing. The speeds each offer a decent enough massage, and the sound isn’t too overpowering, giving it a middle-of-the-road experience. The main drawback of the B37 is that the button to adjust levels of pressure rests on the top of the gun, making it impossible to change speeds with one hand if you’re holding the gun at the bottom of the L-shaped handle.
Having to change speeds with two hands may not be the biggest inconvenience, but that knocked it down a few notches in our book, as other massage guns have perfected one-handed controls. Another minor flaw is that it requires you to churn through all of its speeds if you want to go down to a lower one because the one button on the gun only allows you to go up.
6.Sportneer K1 Percussive Massage Gun
The Sportneer has five-speed settings and six attachments, two of which are made of metal and specifically for use with oils (which no others in our test offered). I tried using the metal attachments with essential oils, and the experience was just OK. What I mainly enjoyed was that the metal attachments were cool to the touch, which was a welcome sensation after a long, sweaty run. It was also much more gentle than other guns I tested—so, while it didn’t offer the intense pressure I sometimes wanted, it was the massage gun I reached for when my muscles were so tender, I didn’t even want to foam-roll.
Putting on the lowest setting, then gradually working my way up, the Sportneer was best when I was using it for light pressure on sore spots. Though it offers speeds up to 3,200 PPM, it does not offer as much force, making it one of the quieter guns we tested. I also found I had to recharge it more than others. This is ideal for someone who is on a tight budget, wants multiple levels of power, but isn’t looking for something to get deep into their muscles.
The FlyBy is the most basic of all of the massage guns we tested. With three speeds and six attachments, it’s a solid option for someone who is looking for a gentle massage every now and then, as opposed to an athlete who really needs to work out sore muscles regularly. The first level of pressure claims to be 1,800 PPM, which is pretty standard when it comes to the first levels out of all the massage guns tested, but it felt significantly weaker compared to the other ones we tried. However, the sound doesn’t overpower you as you go through each speed level. Even the packaging was more basic than others and didn’t include any directions. Still, if you have a smaller budget, don’t want deep pressure of any sort, and don’t mind doing some Googling to figure out best practices for using a massage gun, this is the one for you.
8.Achedaway Pro Deep Tissue Massage Gun
Pros:
- High-quality design
- Powerful motor
- 3200mAh battery that’s easy and quick to recharge
- Included carrying case with spots for each of the four massage gun heads
Cons:
- No silicone grip, harder to hold than other options
Our editors were genuinely impressed with the power, design and feel of the Achedaway massage gun. The 80 pounds of stall force and 16 millimeters of amplitude make a difference and set it apart from the other guns we tested. It’s a top-heavy gun, similar to TriggerPoint’s design, which gives you plenty of juice for maneuvering and digging into sore muscles when needed. All of the head attachments popped on quickly and stayed on during use, and it has a one-button function that makes it super simple to operate, change the speed and turn on/off.
The gun comes with a solid storage case and four different massage gun heads — two that feel very high-quality and two that feel like they’re made of slightly lighter, cheaper plastic. The battery lasts 2.5 hours on a full charge, and the case is well organized with a spot for the charger, gun and each gun head.
One big con is the grip of this gun; it’s a square-shaped handle without any type of silicone grippy texture, which makes it a little hard to hold. If I were to be using a massage gun for extended periods, I would switch to another option that’s easier to hold.
9.Sportneer Elite D9 Massage Gun
Pros
- Affordable price
- Easy-to-use speed dial on the back
- Carrying case, six interchangeable massage gun heads
- Very quiet motor
Cons
- Less powerful than more expensive guns
There are some budget-friendly massage guns worth purchasing, including this pick from Sportneer, but I will say this: with a lower price tag comes a loss in motor power. All the budget-friendly massage guns I tried had less powerful motors than the more expensive ones, and I had to crank them up to a higher speed to get to the same intensity as the first level of the Therabody guns. With that being said, the highest speed levels of the most expensive guns on this list won’t be used by most average users, and I find them unnecessary.
This Sportneer gun packs a few handy features into a sub-$130 price tag, including an easy-to-use speed dial on the back and six interchangeable massage gun heads. It has a nice weight to it without being too heavy, and the handle has silicone material for grip. It comes with a large case with slots for each gun head, a charger and the gun’s body.
10.RecoverFun Mini Massage Gun
Mini massage guns aren’t the most powerful options on the market, but they definitely get the job done for people looking for basic relief. This mini massage gun from RecoverFun earned 5 out of 5 stars for all of our testing attributes: effectiveness, comfort, ease of use, stall force, portability, and value. This gun is both affordable and effective, generating up to 3,200 percussions per minute across four different speed settings to provide significant therapeutic relief.
The brushless motor is surprisingly quiet, and the battery lasts an impressive 5 hours on a single charge. The USB charging port design helps you keep it powered up while on the go as well. It only weighs 1.1 pounds, and our tester found that the ergonomic design makes it both easy and comfortable to hold.
How We Chose the Best Massage Guns
The process of choosing the best massage guns would depend on the specific criteria being used to evaluate the different options. Some common factors that might be considered when choosing a massage gun include the quality and durability of the device, the range of settings and attachments available, the overall design and ease of use, and the price.
In addition, it’s also important to consider factors like the specific needs of the user, such as any specific muscle groups or areas of the body that they want to target, and whether the massage gun is intended for personal or professional use. Ultimately, the best massage gun for any individual will depend on their specific needs and preferences.
Advantages and disadvantages of massage gun
Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of using a massage gun:
Advantages:
- Relieves muscle soreness and stiffness
- Improves circulation
- Reduces tension in the body
- Can be used at home or on the go
- Convenient and portable
- Can be adjusted to different intensity levels
Disadvantages:
- Cannot replicate the experience of a trained therapist
- Can be expensive
- Can cause discomfort or pain if used incorrectly
- May not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions
- May not provide the same relaxation and stress relief as a massage from a therapist
Overall, the advantages and disadvantages of using a massage gun will depend on the individual’s specific needs and preferences. It’s important to consider these factors and consult with a healthcare professional before using a massage gun.
To clean a massage gun, first unplug the device and remove the battery, if applicable. Then, use a damp cloth to wipe down the body of the gun, being careful not to get any water or moisture on the internal components. If the massage head or attachments are removable, you can clean them separately using warm water and mild soap.
Be sure to rinse them thoroughly and allow them to dry completely before reattaching them to the massage gun. To store the massage gun, make sure it is dry and free of any debris. It’s a good idea to keep the massage gun in its original box or a protective carrying case to prevent it from being damaged. Make sure to keep the massage gun out of reach of children and pets, and store it in a cool, dry place.
What You Should Know About Massage Guns
There are a few things to keep in mind when using a massage gun. First, it’s important to start with a low intensity setting and gradually increase the pressure as needed. This will help you get used to the sensation of the massage gun and prevent any discomfort or pain.
It’s also a good idea to avoid using the massage gun on open wounds or sensitive areas of the body, such as the face or neck.
Additionally, be sure to read the instructions carefully and follow them when using the massage gun, including any safety precautions or guidelines. Finally, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before using a massage gun, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns.
How To Use a Massage Gun
To use a massage gun, start by plugging it in or inserting the battery, if applicable. Then, turn on the device and adjust the intensity level to your preference. Next, choose the appropriate massage head or attachment and apply it to the area of the body that you want to target. Hold the massage gun firmly against the skin and move it in a circular or back-and-forth motion, applying gentle pressure as needed.
You can use the massage gun for a few minutes at a time, focusing on specific muscle groups or areas of the body that are sore or tight. It’s a good idea to start with a low intensity setting and gradually increase the pressure as needed. Be sure to read the instructions carefully and follow any safety precautions or guidelines when using the massage gun.
Who Should Get a Massage Gun?
Massage guns can be a helpful tool for anyone who wants to relieve muscle soreness and stiffness, improve circulation, and reduce tension in the body. They are often used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts to help recover from workouts and prevent injuries.
However, massage guns can also be beneficial for people who sit at a desk all day or have a sedentary lifestyle, as they can help improve blood flow and reduce tension in the muscles. Additionally, massage guns can be a convenient way to get a massage without the need for a therapist, and can be used at home or on the go.
Ultimately, anyone who is interested in using a massage gun to improve their overall muscle health and wellbeing can consider getting one.
What Is the Best Massage Gun?
It’s difficult to say which massage gun is the best, as the right choice for any individual will depend on their specific needs and preferences. Some of the top-rated massage guns on the market include the Theragun Prime, the Hypervolt 2 Pro, and the TimTam Power Massager Pro.
These massage guns are known for their high-quality construction, range of settings and attachments, and overall effectiveness at relieving muscle soreness and stiffness.
However, the best massage gun for you will depend on your specific needs and budget, so it’s a good idea to do some research and compare different options before making a decision.
How Often Should You Use a Massage Gun?
The frequency of using a massage gun will depend on the individual’s needs and preferences, as well as any recommendations from a healthcare professional. In general, it’s a good idea to start with a few minutes of use per day and gradually increase the frequency as needed.
For example, you may want to use the massage gun for a few minutes after a workout to help relieve muscle soreness and stiffness, or you may use it for a few minutes a few times a day to help improve circulation and reduce tension in the muscles.
It’s important to listen to your body and avoid overusing the massage gun, as this could lead to discomfort or pain.
What Is the Best Budget Massage Gun?
It’s difficult to say which massage gun is the best in terms of budget, as the right choice will depend on the individual’s specific needs and preferences. However, some of the more affordable massage guns on the market include the Theragun Mini, the Pado PureWave CM-07, and the Nekteck Massage Gun.
These massage guns offer many of the same benefits as more expensive options, but at a lower price point. As with any product, it’s important to do some research and compare different options before making a decision.
What Is the Best Massage Gun for Travel?
When choosing a massage gun for travel, it’s important to consider factors like size, weight, and portability. Some of the best massage guns for travel include the Theragun Mini, the TimTam Power Massager Traveler, and the Pado PureWave CM-07.
These massage guns are compact and lightweight, making them easy to take with you on the go. They also offer a range of settings and attachments, so you can target specific muscle groups and customize your massage to your needs. As with any product, it’s a good idea to do some research and compare different options before making a decision.
What Is ‘Depth’ in Terms of Massage Guns?
Massage guns typically have adjustable settings that allow the user to control the depth of the massage. A higher depth setting will result in a more intense massage, while a lower depth setting will provide a gentler massage.
It’s important to start with a low depth setting and gradually increase the intensity as needed, as applying too much pressure can lead to discomfort or pain. The right depth setting will depend on the individual’s preferences and needs, as well as the specific muscle group or area of the body being targeted.
How Much Should You Pay for a Massage Gun?
The price of a massage gun can vary depending on factors like the quality and durability of the device, the range of settings and attachments available, and the brand and model. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $600 or more for a massage gun.
However, there are also many affordable options available that offer many of the same benefits as more expensive massage guns. When considering the price of a massage gun, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s an investment in your overall health and wellbeing.
It’s a good idea to do some research and compare different options before making a decision, and to consider factors like the quality and effectiveness of the massage gun, as well as your own needs and budget.
Can you travel with massage guns?
Yes, you can travel with massage guns. Many massage guns are designed to be compact and portable, making them easy to take with you on the go. Some massage guns even come with a carrying case or travel bag, which can help protect the device and make it easier to transport.
When traveling with a massage gun, it’s important to follow any guidelines or restrictions for carrying electronic devices on airplanes or other forms of transportation.
What are massage guns best used for?
Massage guns are best used for relieving muscle soreness and stiffness, improving circulation, and reducing tension in the body. They are often used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts to help recover from workouts and prevent injuries.
However, massage guns can also be beneficial for people who sit at a desk all day or have a sedentary lifestyle, as they can improve blood flow and reduce tension in the muscles.
Additionally, massage guns can be a convenient way to get a massage without the need for a therapist, and can be used at home or on the go. Ultimately, the best use for a massage gun will depend on the individual’s specific needs and preferences.
Is massage gun better than massage?
There is no definitive answer to whether a massage gun is better than a massage, as the right choice will depend on the individual’s specific needs and preferences. Massage guns are a convenient and portable way to provide relief for muscle soreness and stiffness, improve circulation, and reduce tension in the body. They are often used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts to help recover from workouts and prevent injuries.
However, a massage gun cannot replicate the experience of a trained therapist performing a massage. Massages can be more personalized and tailored to the individual’s specific needs and preferences, and can also provide other benefits like relaxation and stress relief. Ultimately, whether a massage gun is better than a massage will depend on the individual’s specific situation and goals.
Is it OK to use a massage gun every day?
It’s generally safe to use a massage gun every day, as long as you are using it correctly and not applying too much pressure. However, it’s a good idea to start with a few minutes of use per day and gradually increase the frequency as needed. It’s also important to listen to your body and avoid overusing the massage gun, as this could lead to discomfort or pain.
Can a massage gun damage muscle?
A massage gun is not likely to damage muscle if it is used correctly. However, applying too much pressure or using the massage gun for an extended period of time without adequate rest can lead to discomfort or pain. It’s important to start with a low intensity setting and gradually increase the pressure as needed, and to avoid using the massage gun on open wounds or sensitive areas of the body.
What happens if you use a massage gun for too long?
If you use a massage gun for too long, you may experience discomfort or pain. Applying too much pressure or using the massage gun for an extended period of time without adequate rest can lead to soreness, stiffness, and irritation in the muscles.
It’s important to listen to your body and avoid overusing the massage gun. It’s a good idea to start with a few minutes of use per day and gradually increase the frequency as needed, and to avoid using the massage gun on open wounds or sensitive areas of the body.