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We Tested the Best Massage Guns—These 17 Came Out on Top
After 840 hours of testing, we found the best options for quiet, powerful relief
Massage guns can help relieve tension, tightness, and soreness when used before and after workouts. They target your muscles using rapid-fire pulses to provide the benefits of massage therapy from the comfort of your home. To find the best massage guns on the market, we consulted experts (including a registered nurse, a board-certified physical therapist, and more) to learn which key features are most important. Then, we tested 32 massage guns in the Verywell Testing Lab under the supervision of physical therapist Dr. Monica Saliu. We also tested them at home for more than 840 total hours of testing.
Our testers, who all have varied experience with exercise and massage guns, used the massage guns pre- and post-workout on multiple body parts whenever they felt sore. At the end of each testing period, we evaluated each massage gun based on its effectiveness, comfort, ease of use, stall force, portability, and value. Another reason to trust our picks? We had a certified physical therapist from our Review Board assess this article for accuracy, how to shop for an effective massage gun, and how to use one safely.
Best Overall
Opove Apex Massage Gun
- Effectiveness5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Ease of Use5/5
- Portability4.5/5
- Value5/5
Quiet, even on highest setting
Long battery life
Easy to maneuver
Lowest setting may be too intense for some
Key Specs
Noise: 45–55 decibels | Stall Force: 50 pounds | Weight: 2.3 pounds | Customizability: 6 head attachments, 3 speeds | Battery Life: 3.5 hours | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who It's For
Best for athletes and casual exercisers who like deep tissue massage to relieve soreness from high-intensity workouts.
Why We Love It
Opove's Apex Massage Gun is our top overall pick because we were impressed by how effectively it reaches trigger points and sore spots. Previously, the brand's M3 Pro massage gun was our favorite—but we love that this new model is quieter, more compact, and easier to maneuver.
For fans of deep tissue massage, this device comes with multiple smaller attachments for more intense kneading around smaller muscles and tendons. And while it has a hefty stall force of 50 pounds, we noticed that it's still lightweight, weighing just 2.3 pounds. Its battery life is also competitive, lasting three to four hours on one full charge.
We also love that the Apex comes with a convenient carrying case, so you don’t have to worry about misplacing any of its six unique head attachments. Ideal for beginners and serious athletes alike, it's powerful enough to offer deep relief.
Potential Flaws
- The lowest settings on this massage gun might still feel too intense for those looking for a more gentle massage.
Most Valuable Insight
"I really like that this massage gun offers such powerful percussive therapy but is a lot lighter, smaller, and cheaper than other options that offer roughly the same deep tissue relief." —Isabella Broggini, Verywell Fit senior editor and product tester
Verywell Fit / Joy Kim
Verywell Fit / Joy Kim
Verywell Fit / Joy Kim
Verywell Fit / Joy Kim
Verywell Fit / Joy Kim
Verywell Fit / Joy Kim
Verywell Fit / Joy Kim
Verywell Fit / Joy Kim
Verywell Fit / Joy Kim
Best for Everyday Use
Ekrin Athletics B37 Massager
- Effectiveness5/5
- Comfort4.9/5
- Ease of Use5/5
- Portability4.8/5
- Value5/5
Easy to hold and use
Customizable speed range
Long battery life
Lowest setting may be too intense for some
Key Specs
Noise: 35–55 decibels | Stall Force: Not listed | Weight: 2.2 pounds | Customizability: 4 head attachments, 5 speeds | Battery Life: 8 hours
Who It's For
Best for those with chronic tension or tightness who need a massage gun for daily use.
Why We Love It
Ekrin Athletic's B37 Percussion Massager is a compact, easy-to-use device, with an eight-hour battery life, five speed settings, and four head attachments. It's also ultra-quiet, lightweight, and comes with a convenient carrying case for portability.
This massage gun effectively relieved muscle tension in our super-sore shoulders, glutes, and legs. Plus, the ergonomic, 15-degree angled handle provides a more comfortable reach. We also like that the device is quieter and has a longer battery life than many other massage guns on our list. It's perfect for everyday use—comfortable to hold, completely customizable, and reliably durable.
Potential Flaws
- The lowest setting still feels fairly intense and may be too strong for some.
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit/Jhett Thompson
Best Budget
RENPHO Power
- Effectiveness4.9/5
- Comfort4.5/5
- Ease of Use4.4/5
- Portability4/5
- Value4.8/5
LED touch display
Auto-off timer
6 massage heads
May be too powerful for beginners
Power button is easy to hit accidentally
Key Specs
Noise: 45 decibels | Stall Force: 30 pounds | Weight: 1.9 pounds | Customizability: 6 head attachments, 6 speeds | Battery Life: 3 hours | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who It's For
Athletes on a budget looking for more intense massage gun therapy and people who want and can tolerate deep tissue massage.
Why We Love It
For our best budget pick, we found that RENPHO's Power Massage Gun is the most effective massage gun without a hefty price tag. Known for its high-tech bathroom scales and foot massagers, RENPHO is no stranger to wellness products. With six percussion speeds and six attachment heads, this massage gun lets you easily find a speed and head shape that works to relieve your muscle tension. And while even the low speeds are quite intense, the longer we use it, the more comfortable we get cranking it up, especially on larger muscle groups like hamstrings.
This L-shaped gun is heavier, but we still found it easy to hold. We also like that it comes with a convenient carrying bag, although we think the gun's weight makes it a less appealing choice for traveling. The stall force is fairly powerful and doesn't turn off with more pressure—it stayed consistently strong throughout our testing period. Overall, we think its strength, effectiveness, and wide variety of attachments make this gun a steal for the price.
Potential Flaws
- We noticed the power button (the same button that adjusts the speed) is very close to where your thumb goes, and it can be quite easy to click it accidentally.
- The lowest speed setting may still be too powerful for beginners and new users.
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Best Budget Runner-Up
Recoverfun Mini
- Effectiveness5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Ease of Use5/5
- Portability5/5
- Value5/5
Lightweight
Great battery life
Easier to hold
Not as powerful as other options
Lacks a structured carrying case
Key Specs
Noise: 42 decibels | Stall Force: Not listed | Weight: 1.3 pounds | Customizability: 4 head attachments, 4 speeds | Battery Life: 5 hours | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who It's For
Best for those who travel often or want the convenience of a massage gun that fits in their gym bag.
Why We Love It
Mini massage guns aren’t the most powerful options on the market, but they definitely get the job done if you're looking for some relief. This gun is both budget-friendly and effective, generating up to 3,200 percussions per minute across four different speed settings to provide therapeutic relief. It only weighs 1.1 pounds, and we found that the ergonomic design makes it both easy and comfortable to hold.
Although this massage gun has fewer speed options than others on our list, we felt the speed range offered enough tension for a satisfying massage without feeling too intense. The size makes it easy to maneuver: We never felt like the massage gun was going to slip out of our hands during testing. The brushless motor is surprisingly quiet, and the battery lasts an impressive five hours on a single charge. The USB charging port helps you keep it powered up while on the go, as well.
Potential Flaws
- This mini massage gun is portable but lacks a structured carrying case to protect it.
- The massage gun may not be as powerful as other models on our list.
Most Valuable Insight
"The smaller (and lighter) size gives you more control over it, which is really important when you have a percussive instrument in your hand." —Ashleigh Morley, director of commerce and Verywell Fit product tester
Best Theragun
Therabody Theragun Prime
- Effectiveness5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Ease of Use5/5
- Portability4.5/5
- Value5/5
Helpful how-to video guides
Ergonomic grip
App integration with Bluetooth
Handle may be too short for some areas
Shorter battery life
Key Specs
Noise: Not listed | Stall Force: 30 pounds | Weight: 2.2 pounds | Customizability: 4 head attachments, 5 speeds | Battery Life: 2 hours | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who It's For
Best for athletes and exercisers who need a quiet gun with customizable speed for their massage treatments.
Why We Love It
Theragun is a powerhouse in the massage gun market, and after testing the brand's most popular massage gun models, the Theragun Prime (4th Generation) was our favorite. In fact, it earned an overall higher rating than the more expensive Theraguns we tested. We felt it was quiet, easy to hold, and very effective at relieving sore muscles after a workout.
It comes with four head attachments, plus a smart app with how-to video guides that help with the initial set-up process. We love that the brushless motor features the company's QuietForce technology that keeps the device quiet while in use, without losing power. The Prime has five built-in speeds, but you can also select any speed between 1,750 and 2,400 percussions per minute to customize your treatment in manual mode.
Potential Flaws
- The handle on this massage gun is ergonomic but may be too short for hard-to-reach areas.
- The battery life is only two hours, which is shorter than many other massage guns on our list.
Most Valuable Insight
"This was feeling like a 'nice-to-have' gadget until the morning I woke up with a tension headache. I used the Theragun on my back and shoulder and felt great for the rest of the day." —Sabrina Rojas Weiss, Verywell Fit product tester
VeryWell Fit / Jhett Thompson
VeryWell Fit / Jhett Thompson
VeryWell Fit / Jhett Thompson
VeryWell Fit / Jhett Thompson
VeryWell Fit / Jhett Thompson
VeryWell Fit / Jhett Thompson
VeryWell Fit / Jhett Thompson
VeryWell Fit / Jhett Thompson
VeryWell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Best Budget Theragun
Therabody Theragun Relief
- Effectiveness5/5
- Comfort4.3/5
- Ease of Use5/5
- Portability4.2/5
- Value5/5
Lightweight
Easy one-button control
Gentle massaging relief
May not be strong enough for some users
No carrying case
Key Specs
Noise: Not listed | Stall Force: Not listed | Weight: 1.4 pounds | Customizability: 3 head attachments, 3 speeds | Battery Life: 2 hours | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who It's For
Best for new massage gun users who want light relief at a budget-friendly price.
Why We Love It
For a more budget-friendly Theragun, the Theragun Relief is our top pick. We love its lightweight design and easy, one-button control. The button allows you to quickly toggle through the three speeds and a light indicator lets you see what setting you're on. We found this massage gun to be perfect for gentle, soothing relief of everyday aches and pains due to its shorter stroke distance of 10 millimeters (most other Theragun models are 16 millimeters).
The Relief comes with three head attachments and printed cards that visually walk you through routines. You can also use the Therabody app on your phone to follow along with guided routines for more targeted relief. During testing, we noted the Relief is durable, solidly built, and easy to hold. Even though it doesn't come with a carrying case, we love the light Sand color that keeps it looking nice even when it's sitting out.
Potential Flaws
- This massage gun may not be strong enough for more experienced users or someone needing a stronger massage.
- We wish it came with a carrying case.
Most Valuable Insight
"Overall, my muscles felt more relaxed after using the Theragun Relief. It was the right fit for my everyday aches and pains." —Phoebe Sklansky, Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit / Phoebe Sklansky
Verywell Fit / Phoebe Sklansky
Best Splurge
Therabody Theragun Elite
- Effectiveness5/5
- Comfort4.2/5
- Ease of Use4.1/5
- Portability4.5/5
- Value4.5/5
Ergonomic grip
Customizable speed range
App integration with Bluetooth
Larger size may be difficult to hold
Key Specs
Noise: Not listed | Stall Force: 40 pounds | Weight: 2.2 pounds | Customizability: 5 head attachments, 5 preset speeds (also customizable) | Battery Life: 2 hours | Our Overall Rating: 4.2/5
Who It's For
Best for users interested in high-tech support through app integration and guided routines.
Why We Love It
The Theragun Elite didn't score as well as the Prime did during testing, but we still think this is a high-tech, high-quality massage gun from a trusted brand that’s worth the splurge. The Elite offers five head attachments, including a wedge attachment that may help decrease lactic acid in muscles via a scraping motion. Like the Theragun Prime, the Elite comes equipped with QuietForce technology and smart app integration. The Therabody app integrates with Apple Health and Google Fit and can suggest guided routines based on your fitness program. You can also store up to three preset routines right on your device.
We like that the five head attachments glide smoothly over sore muscles to treat large and small knots. We also appreciate that you can easily adjust the speed of the massage gun, making the Elite versatile for soothing mild to deep muscle aches. This Theragun has five preset speeds, but you can also fully customize the speed range in the app—anywhere between 1,750 and 2,400 percussions per minute.
Potential Flaws
- This massage gun is a little bulky, so holding it for a long massage session may be difficult for some users.
Most Valuable Insight
"This massage gun is definitely effective. After workouts, it helped relieve pain and tension in my muscles. It's lightweight, and the screen helps you check how fast the gun is going (or whether it's on or off) at a glance." —Sarah Felbin, commerce editor and Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Best for the Face
Therabody TheraFace Pro
- Ease of Use5/5
- Performance/Effectiveness5/5
Offers additional skincare treatments
Ergonomic design
Six head attachments
Pricier than other options
Key Specs
Noise: Not listed | Stall Force: Not applicable | Weight: 0.6 pounds | Customizability: 6 attachments | Battery Life: 2 hours | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who It's For
Best for those looking to support and level up their skincare routine.
Why We Love It
In need of a massage gun... for your face? Meet Therabody's TheraFace Pro. Whether you have irritating jaw pain or facial muscle tension, this innovative facial tool uses gentle percussive massage to ease discomfort. The device comes with cleansing, microcurrent, and LED light therapy rings to help users work toward various skincare goals. During testing, it provided a relaxing, effective upgrade to our skincare routine.
The TheraFace Pro is an eight-in-one device with various functions—a microcurrent ring to "firm and tighten," an LED red light setting to help "reduce crow's feet," an LED blue light setting to help "reduce mild to moderate acne," an LED red + infrared light setting to help "reduce crow's feet" and also "temporarily reduce pain," a percussive flat head attachment to reduce general tension, a percussive micropoint head attachment that may "help maximize circulation," a percussive cone head attachment to help target pressure points, and a cleansing ring to help remove dirt, oil, and debris and "cleanse more effectively."
Potential Flaws
- Despite the eight-in-one design of this massage gun, it's on the pricier side for a skincare tool. But we still think it's worth it if you're ready to upgrade your skincare routine.
Most Valuable Insight
"After just one use, I noticed a visible difference in how my skin looked and felt. I could see that my jawline and cheekbones looked more defined, contoured, and lifted." —Michelle Parente, CYT, Verywell Fit staff writer and product tester
Verywell Fit / Michelle Parente
Verywell Fit / Michelle Parente
Verywell Fit / Michelle Parente
Verywell Fit / Michelle Parente
Verywell Fit / Michelle Parente
Best High-Intensity
Therabody Theragun Pro
- Effectiveness4.1/5
- Comfort4.1/5
- Ease of Use4.4/5
- Portability4.5/5
- Value4.3/5
Rotating arm
60-pound stall force
Six head attachments
Pricier than other options
Larger size may be difficult to hold
Key Specs
Noise: Not listed | Stall Force: 60 pounds | Weight: 2.9 pounds | Customizability: 6 head attachments, 4 arm positions, 5 preset speeds (also customizable) | Battery Life: 5 hours | Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5
Who It's For
Best for experienced massage gun users who are used to deep percussive therapy and are looking to invest in a truly versatile device.
Why We Love It
The fan-favorite Pro massage gun is the top of the line from Theragun. It didn’t perform as well as some other options on our list, but we think it’s still a good investment if you’re seeking a truly deep-tissue massage. With a stall force of 60 pounds, six head attachments, and a rotating arm, the Theragun Pro offers maximum intensity and versatility for treating sore muscles.
The Pro’s arm rotates to four different positions, and the triangular-shaped handle makes it ideal for reaching hard-to-reach spots like your lower back, glutes, and hamstrings. Like other Theragun devices, the Pro comes with smart app integration and up to three preset routines that can be saved on the device. It also comes with two rechargeable batteries, so you’ll never be left waiting for your massage gun to charge up.
Potential Flaws
- At almost three pounds, the Pro is pretty heavy. It’s best suited for someone with lots of arm and grip strength or someone with a partner or trainer who can assist with their massage session.
- This massage gun is one of the most expensive ones on our list.
Most Valuable Insight
"I like that it comes with so many head attachments and that it offers really deep percussive therapy, which is what I crave when muscles are really sore following an intense workout." —Isabella Broggini, Verywell Fit senior editor and product tester
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Most Versatile
RENPHO R4 Pro
- Effectiveness4.8/5
- Comfort4.8/5
- Ease of Use4.5/5
- Portability4/5
- Value4.9/5
Five massage arm positions
Includes carrying case
Ergonomic silicone handle
May not be as durable
Higher speeds may be too intense for some
Key Specs
Noise: 45 decibels | Stall Force: 30 pounds | Weight: 2.2 pounds | Customizability: 6 head attachments, 5 arm positions, 4 speeds | Battery Life: 2.5 hours
Who It's For
Best for anyone with a limited range of motion, thanks to the adjustable and rotatable components.
Why We Love It
RENPHO's R4 Pro Massage Gun is truly the most versatile massage gun we’ve tried. Thanks to its four speeds, five adjustable angles, six attachments, and rotatable heads, the R4 Pro can soothe any number of sore muscles or trigger points.
While the gun may look bulky, it's actually pretty lightweight. It's also very portable, thanks to the handy included carrying case. The ergonomic silicone handle makes it easy to hold without slipping and is comfortable for longer periods of use.
Potential Flaws
- This massage gun doesn't feel as durable as some others we tested, but we like that it comes with a sturdy carrying case.
- We noticed during testing that the higher speeds may feel too intense for some.
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Best Mini
Therabody Theragun Mini
- Effectiveness5/5
- Comfort4.5/5
- Ease of Use5/5
- Portability5/5
- Value5/5
Portable
Easy to hold
Compatible with other Theragun attachments
Low stall force
Fewer head attachments included
Key Specs
Noise: Not listed | Stall Force: 20 pounds | Weight: 1 pounds | Customizability: 3 head attachments, 3 speeds | Battery Life: 2.5 hours | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who It's For
Best for those looking for a compact massage gun that's easier to hold—and more budget-friendly—than larger devices.
Why We Love It
For another budget-friendly Theragun that's also easily portable, we recommend the Theragun Mini. The Mini is perfect for working out knots and tight spots while on the go. Its lightweight, compact design can be stashed in your gym bag or hiking backpack, so you can use it anywhere. With a 20-pound stall force and only three speed settings, the Theragun Mini isn't as powerful as some other massage guns on our list are. Still, we felt a noticeable difference after using it, particularly in our hip flexor tension.
Mini massage guns are especially useful for people who have weaker hands or chronic arthritis pain and can't hold heavier devices comfortably for an extended period. We like that the Theragun Mini has a sleek, ergonomic grip that helps reduce the strain on your hands. Therabody claims that this second-generation Mini is 20% smaller and 30% lighter than its predecessor, making it perfect for travel.
Potential Flaws
- The Mini only comes with three head attachments—but we like that it's compatible with other Theragun attachments, which can be purchased separately.
- The stall force on the Mini is pretty low compared to full-sized devices.
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Best Stall Force
Achedaway Pro Massager
- Effectiveness5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Ease of Use4.5/5
- Portability4/5
- Value4.5/5
Powerful intensity
Carrying case included
Easy to set up and use
Heavier than other options
Key Specs
Noise: 40–60 decibels | Stall Force: 80 pounds | Weight: 2.5 pounds | Customizability: 4 head attachments, 5 speeds | Battery Life: Up to 3 hours
Who It's For
Best for those with very tough knots or anyone who enjoys intense, deep-tissue massages.
Why We Love It
If you prefer more intense massages, consider Achedaway's Pro Percussion and Vibration Massager. The company claims this massage gun has 16 millimeters of amplitude that offers 60% deeper percussion than competitors—and since the motor maxes out at 80 pounds, it also has the highest stall force on our list. Its five speed settings allow you to further customize your massage.
This massage gun weighs 2.5 pounds, so it’s not the lightest, but it's not the heaviest we're recommending, either. It features a battery life of two to three hours, and we like that you can buy an extra battery to double its battery life. Plus, we found it easy to use and set up. Another bonus: It comes with a carrying case and four massage heads.
Potential Flaws
- We did find it difficult to hold with one hand when massaging hard-to-reach areas like the back, so the weight is a compromise to consider if you’re looking for a powerful device.
Best Quiet
TOLOCO Massage Gun
- Effectiveness4/5
- Comfort4.5/5
- Ease of Use4.5/5
- Portability4.5/5
- Value4.5/5
Budget-friendly
10 head attachments
7 speeds
Amplitude is shorter than other massage guns
Some users report battery stops holding a charge overtime
Key Specs
Noise: 40 decibels | Stall Force: Not listed | Weight: 2.1 pounds | Customizability: 10 head attachments, 7 speeds | Battery Life: 4 hours
Who It's For
Best for those in small spaces who often need to use a massage gun around roommates or partners.
Why We Love It
Toloco's EM26 Massage Gun has a brushless motor with noise-reduction technology that keeps it at 40 decibels, making it the quietest on our list. We also found that it's easy to use, lightweight, and portable. We had no trouble applying a lot of pressure while using the EM26 and felt that the higher settings were appropriately intense without causing the gun to vibrate too much.
It's versatile, too—we like that it has 10 head attachments and seven speed levels, making it easy to customize for the recovery and relaxation you need.
Potential Flaws
- The EM26's amplitude is shorter than other options on our list, meaning it may not provide as deep of a massage.
- Some users have noticed that the battery doesn't hold a charge well over time, although we didn't experience this during testing.
Best With Extended Arm
RENPHO Extend
- Effectiveness5/5
- Comfort4.9/5
- Ease of Use4.6/5
- Portability4/5
- Value4.5/5
Lightweight
Extension handle is detachable
Great value
May not be powerful enough for some
Key Specs
Noise: 45 decibels | Stall Force: 30 pounds | Weight: 1.1 pounds | Customizability: 4 head attachments, 4 speeds | Battery Life: 4–5 hours
Who It's For
Best for those with a limited range of motion or who carry most of their tension in their back and shoulders.
Why We Love It
We love RENPHO's Extend Massage Gun’s long, detachable handle, which makes it a breeze to massage hard-to-reach parts of the body (like our shoulders and back). The different attachments and four speed settings help target specific muscle groups, and we like that switching between head attachments is simple. The noise reduction technology means the sound runs below 45 decibels, making for a decently quiet massage.
We also love how easy and comfortable the long handle is to use—we didn’t find it tiring to hold during testing. This lightweight device offers great value for your money, with quality that compares to much pricier massage guns.
Potential Flaws
- This massage gun has a lower stall force, so it may not be intense enough for some.
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Best for Travel
Hyperice Hypervolt Go 2
- Effectiveness5/5
- Comfort4.3/5
- Ease of Use4.7/5
- Portability5/5
- Value4/5
TSA-approved for carry-on
Compact
Three plug adapters for travel
No carrying case
Key Specs
Noise: Not listed | Stall Force: Not listed | Weight: 1.5 pounds | Customizability: 2 head attachments, 3 speeds | Battery Life: 3 hours
Who It's For
Best for anyone who needs quick recovery sessions on the go.
Why We Love It
Hyperice's Hypervolt Go 2 is our favorite massage gun to take on a trip because it's lightweight and portable. It weighs less than 2 pounds, comes with three plug adapters for international outlets, and is TSA-compliant for carry-on.
In testing, the device was relatively quiet and easy to use, and we could control everything with just one button. We also found it effective at relieving muscle tightness and soreness between workouts. Its handle is easy to hold and maneuver for reaching spots like your lower back and feet. The battery life is also surprisingly good—we only needed to charge it twice over a month of regular use.
Potential Flaws
- We wish this massage gun came with a carrying case, like some of our other top picks do.
Best With Pre-Set Programs
Therabody Theragun Sense
- Effectiveness5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Ease of Use5/5
- Portability5/5
- Value4.5/5
Compact and portable
Mindfulness setting
Built-in heart rate sensor
Changing attachment heads is not intuitive
Key Specs
Noise: Not listed | Stall Force: 40 pounds | Weight: 1.6 pounds | Customizability: 4 head attachments, 5 speeds | Battery Life: 2 hours | Our Overall Rating: 4.78/5
Who It's For
Best for casual exercisers who are looking for relaxation rather than deep tissue relief.
Why We Love It
If relaxation is your goal and following a guided program sounds appealing, we recommend the Theragun Sense. It has preprogrammed settings to target different areas, like your back and lower body. During testing, our favorite option was the bedtime program because it's only six minutes long. After a busy day, the routine helped bring us back to a relaxed and rested state for a good night's sleep. We also love the built-in heart rate sensor and mindfulness setting for biofeedback and breathwork.
The LED screen is easy to read and the programs are visually guided. There are only a few buttons, so it's easy to toggle between programs—making finding what you need a snap. We found the ergonomic triangle design was helpful in targeting hard-to-reach spots, like our mid back, and the massager's power was gentle (but still effective). We also appreciate that it comes with a carrying case for bringing the massager and its four head attachments wherever we go.
Potential Flaws
- The process for changing out the attachment heads is not intuitive and takes some practice.
Most Valuable Insight
"I love this massage gun and I love the meditation setting. It's a great tool to add to your nighttime routine. I love being relaxed and if you do too, I recommend this massage gun!" —Krisha Joshi, Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit / Krisha Joshi
Verywell Fit / Krisha Joshi
Best With Heat Therapy
Therabody Theragun PRO Plus
- Effectiveness5/5
- Comfort4.3/5
- Ease of Use5/5
- Portability4.4/5
- Value5/5
Heat, vibration, and infrared light options
Breathwork setting for mindfulness training
Cold therapy attachment available separately
Heavy
May be too intense for some
Key Specs
Noise: Not listed | Stall Force: 60 pounds | Weight: 5.7 pounds | Customizability: 5 head attachments, 5 speeds | Battery Life: 2.5 hours depending on attachment | Our Overall Rating: 4.78/5
Who It's For
Best for athletes or intense exercisers who need deep tissue relief and want a variety of settings.
Why We Love It
If you're looking for a hefty device with heated attachments for serious relief, Theragun's PRO Plus is our top choice. This gun includes a heat therapy attachment with three settings, a vibration therapy option with three speeds, and an infrared light therapy option. There's even a cold therapy attachment available as a separate purchase—making the PRO Plus perfect for all your recovery needs.
In testing, we found that the lowest setting is still quite strong, providing plenty of deep tissue relief after tough workouts. The LED screen is easy to read and we felt it was intuitive to navigate among the programs and settings. The ergonomic triangle shape helped us get a good grip on the Theragun PRO Plus, and we also appreciated that the included carrying case fits all the attachments inside.
Potential Flaws
- This massage gun is pretty heavy, so it can be difficult to hold for a long time.
- The higher speeds may be too intense for some.
Most Valuable Insight
"If you're a lifter or a runner, and you're dedicated and you give your muscles a workout, this is great. It checks ALL the boxes, and then some." —Donna Freydkin, Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin
Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin
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Massage Guns We Also Tested
We tested 32 massage guns, but only 17 earned a spot on our final list of recommendations. Although these options didn't score well enough to become top picks, we still think they have some features that are worth mentioning:
- Hyperice's Hypervolt 2 is a powerful massage gun that effectively loosens tight muscles—but its percussion is pretty powerful, even on the lowest setting. Ultimately, we found it too intense and uncomfortable to include in our list.
- Exerscribe's VYBE V2 Percussion Massage Gun scored high marks for its portability and stall force. Still, we found it too noisy and shaky to use effectively.
- Wahl's Deep Tissue Corded Percussion Massager provides plenty of relief, but its size and corded design feel awkward. We ended up docking points for its ease of use and overall value.
Where We Stand
After testing 32 massage guns for 840 hours, Opove's Apex Massage Gun is our clear winner, with a long battery life and a compact, lightweight design. We also love that it has impressive stall force that provides deep tissue relief.
After our initial four-week testing period, we continued to use our favorite massage guns as part of our regular routines. We then reassessed each massage gun at the six-month mark to see how they held up over time. To date, we still love every one of our top picks, even after further testing.
What to Look for When Shopping for a Massage Gun
- Noise: The motors that power massage guns can be surprisingly loud, which can take away from the spa-like relief they provide. To tell if the massage gun you're considering is quiet or loud, check its decibel (dB) rating. Most of our top picks fall between 30 and 60 dB.
- Stall Force: Also called "torque," stall force refers to the amount of pressure you can apply to the head of the massage gun before the motor stalls. A higher stall force is important if you prefer deep-tissue massage. Note that for acute injuries or strains, a massage gun with a higher intensity may be too powerful to allow the muscle to relax, leading to increased spasms, according to certified physical therapist Kathleen Gassner, DPT.
- Weight: If a massage gun is too heavy, you can end up with arm fatigue, which can prevent you from being able to target certain areas of tension. Make sure the model you're considering is light enough for you to hold easily with one hand.
- Customization: Look for a massage gun with customizable, versatile features you can use to target different muscle groups. We recommend purchasing a massage gun with different head attachments, adjustable angles, speeds, and levels for the best experience, like RENPHO's R4 Pro Massage Gun.
Which Massage Gun Head Should I Use?
It depends on the type of massage you're after. Here's our quick guide to each shape:
- Large round attachments are best for larger muscle groups, like your quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes.
- Two-prong attachments that look like vertebrae can help relieve trigger points on either side of your spine, especially toward your lower back.
- Flat head attachments are ideal for targeting smaller areas, like between your shoulder blades or the length of your IT band.
- Bullet-shaped attachments can tackle tiny muscles in your hands and feet—just be mindful of how much pressure you apply.
- Small round heads are a great, all-around pick that works well on most of the body.
Note: Never press any massage gun attachment directly against your spine, bones, tendons, or ligaments.
How We Tested the Massage Guns
To find the best massage guns, we've tested 32 devices for over 840 hours in the Verywell Testing Lab and at home as part of our regular recovery routines. During the testing process, we evaluate each one based on these key attributes:
- Effectiveness: To test how effective a massage gun is, we use each one before and after our regular upper-body and lower-body workouts. Do our muscles feel warmer before workouts? Do we notice a better range of motion? After exercising, we also note whether the massage gun helps decrease or prevent muscle fatigue.
- Comfort: While using each massage gun, we evaluate how comfortable it is to hold and how heavy it feels. How strong is the pressure it applies—does it feel comfortable on our muscles? If the handle, angle, or settings are customizable for a better experience, we note that, too.
- Ease of Use: We prioritize massage guns that make our sessions seamless and enjoyable. How easy is it to charge and set up the first time we use it? Can we swap attachments and adjust the settings quickly? We also consider how easily we can reach different muscle groups.
- Stall Force: Massage guns with a higher stall force will provide a deep, satisfying massage. As we use each model, we note whether we can press down hard and long enough for a deep-tissue effect without stalling the motor. We also pay attention to how the stall force holds up over time—does it remain consistent, or does it weaken as the battery drains?
- Portability: Some massage guns are easier to travel with than others. During testing, we look for travel-friendly features, like a compact design, a carrying case with space for attachments, and a secure power button. We also consider whether it's quiet enough to use in public settings and whether the battery life is long enough to last for an entire trip.
- Value: To accurately rate each massage gun's value, we don't check the price until the end of each testing period, after we've evaluated it in all other categories. Then, we weigh the cost against its features and performance. Would we pay this much for the massage gun or is it overpriced?
Our Experts
We spoke with experts continually while researching and reporting this story. Some helped us learn how to use massage guns safely, while others helped us refine our testing strategy and provided guidance in the Verywell Testing Lab. Although we choose products independently, we use expert input to influence our choices.
- Theresa Marko, PT, DPT, MS, OCS, a board-certified orthopedic physical therapist and certified Early Intervention Specialist with over 20 years of experience
- Monica Saliu, PT, DPT, a physical therapist and cofounder and clinical director at Tribeca Physical Therapy in New York City
- Latoya Julce, a personal trainer, registered nurse, and instructor at 305 Fitness
- Karena Wu, PT, DPT, OCS, a board-certified physical therapist and owner of ActiveCare Physical Therapy in New York City
- Kathleen Gassner, DPT, a certified physical therapist and RRCA-certified running coach
Frequently Asked Questions
How do massage guns help sore muscles?
Massage guns work by providing percussive or vibration therapy, a type of massage that applies rapid pressure bursts to muscle tissue. Percussive therapy helps increase blood flow to a specific area, reducing inflammation, relieving muscle tension, and breaking up any knots that may have formed due to stress or particularly intense workouts.
Can massage guns be harmful?
Yes, massage guns can be harmful if they are used improperly. Our experts recommend massaging a specific area for no more than two minutes at a time. A vibrating foam roller is another option for muscle relief that may be ideal for beginners or those who want less pressure than a massage gun gives.
Where should I not use a massage gun?
According to our experts, you should only use a massage gun on soft muscle tissue. Avoid bones, tendons, ligaments, and the trunk of your neck (near your carotid arteries). In addition, avoid existing wounds and injuries, as the additional blood flow can cause inflammation to worsen. If you are experiencing joint pain, injury, acute muscle pain, or other musculoskeletal disorders, get clearance from your doctor before using a massage gun.
How much should I spend on a massage gun?
You can expect to pay between $70 and $600 for a high-quality massage gun. Budget-friendly options are great for entry-level users who are testing out a massage gun for the first time—but they may not be as durable as other, more expensive options.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
Jen Zeltwanger, ACSM-EP, is an ACSM-certified exercise physiologist and long-time fitness writer. Jen has been involved in the fitness industry for over 25 years and has written articles and tested products for a variety of fitness and wellness publications, like Sass Magazine and Field Hockey Life Magazine. She uses TOLOCO's Massage Gun and Ekrin Athletics' B37 Massage Gun to relax her stiff back after training and to loosen her tight hips after running. She considers them essential parts of her training regimen.
Additional reporting by Alena Hall
As a former personal trainer, seasoned health writer, and avid exerciser, Alena Hall understands how critical a quality recovery practice is to a person’s overall fitness routine. She's always exploring the latest and greatest health gadgets as they enter the market, but more importantly, she looks for scientific research that validates their claims.
Imtiyaz S, Veqar Z, Shareef MY. To compare the effect of vibration therapy and massage in prevention of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). J Clin Diagn Res. 2014;8(1):133-136. doi:10.7860/JCDR/2014/7294.3971
Imtiyaz S, Veqar Z, Shareef MY. To compare the effect of vibration therapy and massage in prevention of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). J Clin Diagn Res. 2014;8(1):133-6. doi:10.7860/JCDR/2014/7294.3971