We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process.
Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:- Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
- Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
- Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?
Massage guns are handheld products a person can use to massage the muscles. They may help with general muscle pain and aid post-workout recovery.
- Best non-sweat absorbing: Theragun Pro 5th Generation | Skip to review
- Best for travelers: OPOVE M3 Pro 2 Massage Gun | Skip to review
- Best with Bluetooth connectivity: Hyperice Hypervolt Plus | Skip to review
- Best fast-charging: VYBE Pro Percussion Massage Gun | Skip to review
- Best lightweight: Recoverfun Mini Massage Gun | Skip to review
- Best quiet: LifePro Sonic Handheld Percussion Massage Gun | Skip to review
- Best for long battery life: Sportneer Massage Gun | Skip to review
- Best for a deep massage: Achedaway Pro 16 mm Massage Gun | Skip to review
- Best mini design: RENPHO Mini Massage Gun | Skip to review
- Best speed range: Legiral LE3 Massage Gun | Skip to review
People can choose from a range of available products. They may wish to consider various factors, such as design, noise level, and portability, when making a decision.
This article discusses how massage guns work and their potential benefits and risks. It also lists some of the massage guns available to buy online.
Below, we look at some of the best massage guns available.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Best non-sweat absorbing: Theragun Pro 5th Generation
- Price: $599
- Weight: 2.9 pounds (lb)
- Attachments: six
- Battery life: 150 minutes per battery (two provided)
Theragun claims that the Pro is its most powerful deep muscle treatment. The company also states that a person needs to use it for just 30 seconds on each muscle group to achieve the desired effect.
It has six closed-cell foam head attachments, providing a soft alternative to plastic for the skin. This material also makes it more compatible with oils, lotions, and sweat, which people can wipe easily from the attachments after use.
Other features of the Theragun Pro include:
- an adjustable arm to target hard-to-reach areas
- two speeds: a deep treatment and a lighter option for sensitive areas
- reduced noise compared with previous models
- two interchangeable batteries and a charger
- up to 60 lb of force
- a travel case
- a 2-year warranty
Pros
- two rechargeable batteries included
- positive reviews mention it worked for pain reduction
- features an adjustable arm
- easy to clean attachments
Cons
- expensive
- reviews mention that the product does not come with a user manual
Best for traveling: OPOVE M3 Pro 2 Massage Gun
- Price: around $130
- Weight: 2.2 lb
- Attachments: six
- Battery life: 4–8 hours
This OPOVE model comes with a nylon and glass fiber anti-drop shell to reduce the risk of damage. It is available in black or silver.
The massage gun weighs 2.2 lb. The company includes a carrying case with each purchase, making it easy to transport.
Other features of the OPOVE M3 Pro Massage Gun include:
- “QuietGlide” technology to limit noise level to 39–55 decibels (dB), depending on the selected level
- five speeds
- rechargeable battery with 4–8 hours of battery life
- six head attachments
- 30-day return policy and free shipping
- 1-year warranty
Pros
- positive reviews mention quiet motor and product efficiency
- more affordable than some competitors
- can have up to 8 hours of battery life
Cons
- some reviewers mention the battery did not last longer than one year
- reviewers state that this may not be powerful enough for some individuals
Best with Bluetooth connectivity: Hyperice Hypervolt 2
- Price: $299
- Weight: 1.8 lb
- Attachments: five
- Battery life: up to 3 hours
The Hypervolt 2 model uses QuietGlide technology to keep the gun’s noise levels low.
It includes Bluetooth connectivity, allowing connection to the Hyperice app, which can help a person with personalized health and well-being programs, warm-ups, and routines.
Other features of the Hypervolt 2 are:
- three speed options
- five head attachments
- weight of 1.8 lb
- TSA-approved for carry-on luggage
- quick battery recharge
- 1-year manufacturer warranty
Pros
- some positive reviews mention the product works well for pain
- suitable for carry-on luggage
- recharges quickly
- connects to an app
Cons
- heavy compared with competitors
- shorter battery life compared with most competitors
- some reviewers raise concerns about durability
Best fast-charging: VYBE Pro Percussion Massage Gun
- Price: around $123
- Weight: around 4 lb
- Attachments: eight
- Battery life: about 3 hours
The VYBE Pro Percussion model appears to be one of the less expensive models available. The company claims this massage gun suits athletes of all abilities.
This model has eight massage heads to choose from, all of which target specific areas of the body.
VYBE does not give information about the item’s weight, but the package’s total weight is 4.53 lb.
Other features of the VYBE Pro Percussion model include:
- nine speeds, reaching up to 3,400 strokes per minute
- maximum noise level of 60 dB
- 3 hours of battery life and an included charger
- a travel case
- 30-day return policy
Pros
- more affordable than many competitors
- positive reviews mention that the massage gun is powerful and provides a deep massage
- nine different speeds
- fast to charge
Cons
- no information about product weight
- slightly louder than some competitors
- many reviewers mention the massager is too powerful for them
- heavier than many other massage guns
Best lightweight: Recoverfun Mini Massage Gun
- Price: $79
- Weight: 1.1 lb
- Attachments: four
- Battery life: 5 hours
The Recoverfun model is a portable massage gun available in three colors: black, red, or pink.
This mini massage gun has a lightweight design, at just 1.1 lb. It also comes with a travel bag for easy transport. This model may suit regular travelers.
Other features of the Recoverfun Mini model are:
- a maximum noise level of 48 dB
- 5-hour battery life
- lightweight
- four speed settings that can reach up to 3,200 strokes per minute
- four massage heads
- 1-year warranty
Pros
- positive reviews mention product efficiency and ease of transport
- lightweight
- long battery life
Cons
- no negative reviews on the website, which may mean the company filters these out
- may not be powerful enough for some
Best quiet: LifePro Sonic Handheld Percussion Massage Gun
- Price: around $299
- Weight: 2.5 lb
- Attachments: eight
- Battery life: 3–6 hours
The LifePro Sonic massage gun offers a deep massage for sore tissues and aching muscles. People can use it during warm-up sessions and for post-workout recovery.
It is easy to use and has a front LED panel with an on-off switch.
It comes with a quiet motor, so people can use it wherever they choose with minimal disturbance.
Other features include:
- five intensity adjustment levels
- a portable design
- battery life of up to 6 hours
- a battery level indicator
Pros
- positive reviews mention the product’s efficiency and quiet motor
- high number of attachments
- long battery life
Cons
- several reviewers comment on poor battery life
- more expensive model
- some of the massage heads may be too intense
- the massage heads do not have foam cushioning
Best for long battery life: Sportneer Massage Gun
- Price: around $100
- Weight: 1.7 lb
- Attachments: six
- Battery life: 6 hours
This massage gun has a 6-hour battery life as a minimum, making it a suitable model for people who want to use the gun while traveling, at the gym, or exercising outdoors.
It operates quietly and has a lightweight design. The manufacturer states that the product weighs 1.7 lb, making it easy to pack when traveling.
People can heat or cool the metal massage heads.
Other features include:
- five speed levels
- six replaceable massage heads
- battery life of 6 hours
Pros
- more affordable than many competitors
- positive reviews mention good customer service and a good quality product
- long battery life
- varied styles of attachments
Cons
- some reviewers dispute the claims about its long battery life
- some massage heads do not have any cushioning
- heating or cooling the metal massage heads increases the risk of skin injuries
Best for a deep massage: Achedaway Pro 16 mm Massage Gun
- Price: around $299
- Weight: 2.6 lb
- Attachments: four
- Battery life: 2–3 hours
The manufacturer of the Achedaway Pro 16 mm massage gun states it provides 80 lb of force and 16 mm amplitude, which it claims is deeper than competitors. Achedaway recommends the gun for relieving tight, sore, or stiff muscles.
There is also a deep tissue massage head for more intense massages and targeting trigger points.
It uses QuietGlide technology, and its noise levels range from 40–60 dB. It weighs approximately 2.6 lb and comes with a carry case for portability.
Other features include:
- five speed levels
- four attachment heads
- lightweight design
- 2-year warranty on the device and motor
Pros
- positive reviews claim the gun is powerful
- can provide a deep massage
Cons
- shorter battery life than some competitors
- some reviews raise concerns about durability
- expensive
Best mini design: RENPHO Mini Massage Gun
- Price: $95.99
- Weight: 0.99 lb
- Attachments: four
- Battery life: 4 hours
This mini massage gun from RENPHO weighs 0.99 lb. It is rechargeable and has a battery life of 4 hours.
It also has a quiet motor, operating at less than 45 dB. The manufacturer says this massage gun provides high torque percussion force at a rate of 1,800–3,200 strokes per minute for a deeper massage.
Other features include:
- five speed levels
- 4 hours of battery life
- four head attachments
- lightweight design
- 1-year warranty
Pros
- quiet motor
- lightweight
- easily transportable
- can provide a deeper massage
Cons
- slightly more expensive than other mini models
- no reviews on the company’s website
Best speed range: Legiral LE3 Massage Gun
- Price: around $129.99
- Weight: 4.1 lb
- Attachments: six
- Battery life: 6 hours on low speed
The Legiral LE3 Massage Gun comes with 20 speed options. The different speeds work on stimulating the muscles, relaxing the fascia, reducing lactic acid buildup, and providing deep massage, making this massage gun a versatile option for people with varying needs.
It has a battery life of up to 6 hours on a low speed, and it takes 1.5 to 2 hours to charge fully.
Legiral writes that the motor has a noise range of 35–55 dB.
Other features of this model include:
- 20 speed settings
- six attachments
- an LED control panel
- portable suitcase included
- 1-year warranty
Pros
- relatively affordable
- dedicated settings for specific functions
- buyers found it effective for reducing pain
Cons
- heavy in comparison with competitors
- some people found the device too loud
- the battery life shortens on more powerful settings
The table below compares the massage guns in this article for weight, price, and more.
| Weight | Battery life | Warranty | Returns | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theragun Pro | 2.9 lb | 150 min per battery (two provided) | 2 years | 60 days | $599 |
| OPOVE M3 Pro 2 Massage Gun | 2.2 lb | 4–8 hours | 1 year | 30 days | around $130 |
| Hyperice Hypervolt 2 | 1.8 lb | up to 3 hours | 1 year | 30 days | around $299 |
| VYBE Pro Percussion Massage Gun | around 4 lb | about 3 hours | 90 days | 30 days | around $123 |
| Recoverfun Mini Massage Gun | 1.1 lb | 5 hours | 1 year | 30 days | $79 |
| LifePro Sonic Handheld Percussion Massage Gun | 2.5 lb | up to 6 hours | Lifetime | 30 days | around $299 |
| Sportneer Massage Gun | 1.7 lb | 6 hours | 1 year | 30 days | around $100 |
| Achedaway Pro 16 mm Massage Gun | 2.6 lb | 2–3 hours | 2 years | 30 days | around $299 |
| RENPHO Mini Massage Gun | 0.99 lb | 4 hours | 1 year | 30 days | $95.99 |
| Legiral LE3 Massage Gun | 4.1 lb | 6 hours on low speed | 1 year | 30 days | $129.99 |
Medical News Today’s methodology
Medical News Today chooses fitness equipment that meets the following criteria:
- Price: MNT chooses products available for a wide range of budgets.
- Size and capacity: MNT selects products to suit people of different heights, weights, and strengths.
- Variation: Where fitness equipment has fitness memberships or subscriptions, MNT ensures variation in classes and services that benefit a person’s health.
- Materials: MNT chooses products that have safe and durable materials that are easy to clean and maintain.
- Ease of use: MNT selects simple-to-use products that have clear instructions. If set-up is complicated, MNT chooses brands that offer a set-up or installation service.
- Quality: MNT chooses companies that adhere to high quality manufacturing processes that ensure its products are safe for personal use.
- Reputable: MNT chooses products from businesses that adhere to industry best practices and offer reliable customer service and support.
Massage guns use percussive therapy, which is similar to vibration therapy. They oscillate forward and backward, applying pressure to tense muscle tissue. In doing this, they can release buildups of fluid and tension from the area.
Research suggests that vibration therapy may improve muscle strength and physical performance.
Further studies indicate that a person may benefit from vibration therapy if they exhibit delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS). These individuals may consider using a massage gun post-workout because it can help remove lactic acid buildup from the muscle, which is usually the cause of muscle soreness.
The scientific research backing up manufacturers’ health claims about massage guns is limited, although some studies suggest they can help
The benefits of vibration therapy that massage guns deliver may include:
- muscle and tissue relaxation
- temporary relief of pain
- increased blood flow and circulation
- increased flexibility
A 2020 study found that vibration therapy may also assist with strength and mobility in people with peripheral artery disease. Similarly, the findings of a
Mental health and sleep conditions
Massage guns may be useful for those with mental health or sleep-related conditions, as relaxation of the muscles can help manage stress in the body.
The
With incorrect use, massage guns may injure the body. For instance, they may cause ruptured blood vessels, nerve sensitivity, or muscle fiber damage.
A person can take steps to lessen the chance of causing damage. These include:
- starting with the massage gun on a slow setting
- taking extra care around bony areas
- avoiding nerves and blood vessels, especially in the neck
- not over-massaging any one region of the body
- following the manufacturers’ recommendations — most massage gun models come with a maximum recommended use of 2 minutes on each muscle group
- taking extra care around pulled muscles and torn ligaments
People who are pregnant or have deep vein thrombosis should consult a doctor before using a massage gun and follow their advice.
People looking to purchase a massage gun may wish to consider:
- Power and speed: Most models offer a choice of speed and power settings.
- Portability: Some models are lighter and smaller and have a longer battery life to facilitate easy transportation.
- Design: Some massage guns may make accessing difficult-to-reach areas of the body easier by having features such as an extended handle.
- Warranty and reviews: Reading trusted reviews for products could help when deciding on the best model. It is also essential to look at the warranty terms, in case there are any faults or a person needs a replacement product.
Below are answers to questions people commonly ask about massage guns:
Do massage guns get rid of knots?
Poor posture and a lack of activity most commonly lead to muscle knots. Using a massage gun may help prevent muscle tightness, which may make knots less likely.
What are the top five massage guns?
The most suitable massage gun for one individual may be different for another person. Five popular brands include Therabody, Vybe, Hyperice, LifePro, and Renpho.
It is best for people to consider their needs, budget, and the features the massage gun provides to determine which one is right for them.
Are massage guns worth buying?
There is limited evidence of the benefits of massage guns. However, some research suggests that vibration therapy may help reduce delayed-onset muscle soreness, improve pain, increase flexibility, and promote relaxation.
People will have varied experiences with massage guns based on their symptoms, the type of massage they perform, and how frequently they use them. It may be best for people to consider whether they will get adequate relief from their symptoms with a massage gun rather than seeing a health professional, such as a massage therapist, personal trainer, or physical therapist.
How do I choose a good massage gun?
A person may wish to consider the following factors when choosing the best massage gun for them:
- power
- speed
- portability
- price
- warranty, returns, and trial periods
It can also help to check positive and negative online reviews to better understand real-world experiences with the product.
Massage guns may benefit people with specific medical conditions or who frequently experience muscle pain after exercising.
However, they carry some risk of muscle damage or injury with incorrect use. Following the manufacturers’ safety advice is essential.
It is best for a person to consider what features are most important to them before exploring the options from different brands.