You seem tense — can we help?
Chances are, if you clicked this article, you and your body could use some TLC by way of a massage gun.
A massage gun is really exactly what it sounds like. The device pulses or vibrates (or both) at a high speed, and when applied to your skin, it works to relax the muscles underneath, similar to that of a typical spa massage.
The benefits of these devices are many, but to differentiate from a spa treatment, the gadgets are smaller, easy to transport, can be used at home on yourself or a partner and can be far more affordable than going to a spa or even a chiropractor every time you need a rub down.
Those with medical concerns or physical injuries are advised to seek guidance from a medical professional prior to incorporating any massage tools into their routine, or before relying exclusively on such tools for relief.
Instead, think of massage guns as a great way for an athlete to massage overworked muscles, those that sit at a desk all day to work out knots in their shoulders or backs and for a full-body pick-me-up whenever you need, so long as you use the device correctly.
The New York Post reviewed some of the best massage guns from top-ranked brands. Learn what we love about these machines, what could use some improvement, and which one is right for you. Almost all of these guns are FSA eligible, so you can use pre-tax dollars from your health insurance provider to pick up one of these self-care tools.
We also consulted Camila Perez, a licensed massage therapist, esthetician, and certified manual lymphatic drainage therapist, to answer some frequently asked questions about massage guns. Read on for Perez’s expert advice after 20 years of working with the body, plus her top picks below our reviews.
New York Post Massage Gun Reviews
Theragun Sense
The Theragun Sense offers more than what you might expect from a massage gun. That’s largely thanks to the device’s intelligent programming, which guides you nearly step-by-step through different massage regimens for different areas of your body.
It works by showing you, on the mini screen on the back of the massager, where to place the device. Then, it massages that area for a set amount of time before showing the next area to move it to. If you want to target reducing tension specifically in your neck or lower back, this machine has you covered.
It also has an interesting guided breathing function that requires you to hold the device sideways against your chest. It then softly vibrates at different frequencies that you follow by breathing in and out accordingly. A nice stress-reduction option that makes this massage gun impressively holistic.
Other specs: Biometric sensor measures your heart rate, box includes four attachment heads, padded case included
Pros:
- Easy to hold the handle in multiple positions
- Relatively compact design
- Guided massage and breathing features help you make full use of the machine
Cons:
- Menu can be clunky to navigate
- Attachment heads can be hard to remove
Sonic Handheld Percussion Massage Gun
Massage guns can easily cost upwards of $100, $200, and even $300 dollars, so having affordable options such as the Sonic from LifePro is great. Most consumers probably can’t tell the difference between the massaging power of an under-$100 massage gun and one of the luxury models — after all, they’re designed to perform the same basic function. That means you can benefit plenty from the Sonic without worrying that you’re missing out too much.
This model has a power switch on the back and a button that’s easy to reach while holding the handle, so you can operate it with one hand. It also has one of the lowest vibration options of all the massage guns we tested, which is great if you want a light massage.
Other specs: Includes eight head attachments, charges via a proprietary power adapter, has a removable battery
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Foam ball head attachment is great for sensitive users
Cons:
- Overall design is unnecessarily large
- Case is somewhat bulky
Hyperice Hypervolt 2
This straightforward massage gun from Hyperice does exactly what you think a massage gun should do, plus it gives you the option to add some extra functionality. Its design is a bit top-heavy, but the lighter handle is nice in that it reduces the overall weight of the device. It operates with one button to power it on and press again to cycle through the three speed settings. If you’ve never used a massage gun before and aren’t sure about how to operate one, the Hypervolt 2 is totally intuitive.
You can get the additional heated head attachment if you want to try some warm massaging. The attachment charges separately from the massage gun and has its own button for powering on and switching between three heat levels.
However, because this attachment has a hard plastic exterior, it can be uncomfortable to use. It also can fall out if you use the gun at odd angles, so be careful only to use it directly perpendicular to your body.
Other specs: Includes five head attachments with tiny zippered carrying case, pairs via Bluetooth to Hyperice app
Pros:
- Easy to power on/off and adjust speed single-handedly
- Green light signifies it’s in standby mode
- Variety of shapes in attachments allows for greater versatility
Cons:
- L-shaped design can make maneuvering around your back and shoulders awkward
- Doesn’t include a carrying case for massage gun (only small case for head attachments)
Theragun PRO Plus
As far as full-service massage guns go, this is one of — if not the — most comprehensive option available. Using the mini screen on the back of the device, you can follow different pre-programmed massage routines to target specific areas of your body, such as your neck or back. There are also massage routines to help you warm up before exercising and recover afterward, as well as guided breathing exercises to help you prepare for sleep or simply reduce stress. The breathing exercises work by holding the device sideways against your chest, then following the gentle vibrations with your breaths.
The Theragun PRO Plus also has an LED light on the front that you can toggle on and off to give yourself a little LED light treatment. According to the Cleveland Clinic, red LED light travels into your skin and is meant to treat conditions such as eczema, wrinkles and sun damage. It’s unclear how much your skin will benefit from the LED light on this massage gun, but if that’s a feature you’re looking for, this is one of the only options with it.
Other specs: LED light, includes six head attachments plus a heated attachment, padded case included, biometric sensor measures your heart rate
Pros:
- Wide range of programmed massage routines
- Bonus heated attachment
- Works with cold attachment (optional) for cooling massage
Cons:
- Somewhat heavy to hold
- Tiny handle on case makes it uncomfortable to carry (especially with device inside)
HYDRAGUN Atom Mini Massage Gun
Many massage gun brands offer miniature options, and the Atom from HYDRAGUN is a fantastic choice if you don’t want a larger model. The best thing about a smaller massage gun is how easily you can move it around yourself without bumping the handle into anything.
The fact that the zippered case has room for the massage gun, its head attachments and the charging adapter is another big plus. This device uses a single button to power on and cycle through speed settings, making it easy to figure out for anyone new to the world of massage guns.
Other specs: Includes three head attachments, semi-hardshell carrying case, and charges via USB-C
Pros:
- Powerful motor packed into compact design
- Easy for people with smaller hands to hold
- Comes with polishing cloth
Cons:
- Power button placement doesn’t let you fully operate it single-handedly
- High price
Massage Gun Recommendations from Massage Therapist, Camila Perez
Best compact massage gun: Theragun Mini
For a mini massage that also packs a punch, we love the Theragun Mini. We actually reviewed this one ourselves, falling in love with how portable the device itself was, but also how the attachments and power were on par with the larger versions. Read more here, as well as in the customer review below.
What customer reviews say: “I am a fitness instructor, and I travel for work. The amount of times this has saved my life is immeasurable. If you were on the fence, I highly recommend you purchase this one,” reads a recent Amazon review. The device has nearly 6,000 reviews and a 4.8-star rating on Amazon alone, plus other rave reviews at Best Buy and other retailers.
Other specs: Three attachments, 120-minute battery life, three speeds.
Pros:
- Small and compact for easy transport and use
- Three attachments to target different areas of the body with ease
- Travel case included
- Can be used on it’s own or with the mobile app
- Great ratings on all purchasing sites as well as expert-recommended
Cons:
- Mid to high-tier price point for a device of this size
- Less customization than some other massage guns
Best high-end massage gun: Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Pro
Our massage expert picked this massage gun, as well as rave reviews from customers. The price is steeper than some on this list, but is pretty comparable to the higher-end Therabody devices and comes with attachments and power to back it up.
What customer reviews say: “Still going strong after 3 years! I bought the original version back in 2020, and the thing is still going strong. I use it almost every day and have saved thousands of dollars by not having to pay for massages as frequently. The battery holds its charge and has not diminished since first purchase. The power is fantastic and it’s quite enough to use while watching TV. This thing is a go-to workout companion,” reads a review on the site. You can also find the massage gun on Amazon, where it has a 4.6-star rating and over 600 reviews.
Other specs: Five attachments, three-hour battery life, five speeds.
Pros:
- Amazing battery life
- Relatively quiet, especially for the size and power
- Great at targeting knots
- Five speed settings
- Expert recommended
Cons:
- More expensive than some other devices
- Some reviews note that the grip is less comfortable to hold that other models
Best budget-friendly massage gun: DACORM Massage Gun
Sometimes the best way is also the cheapest way when you need a quick massage on the go. We found this Amazon pick, looking to their 4.5-star rating and more than 10,000 reviews, and then obviously noticing the price tag below $100.
What customer reviews say: “I’m a blue-collar guy with a bad back and I’ve been putting this massage gun TO WORK… like hard; for almost 2 years now! When I say I’m rough on it I mean I lay all 200lbs of myself into it every other night to get a little relief and it does a great job! Very powerful motor! It still has a great battery life it still runs great (even after a couple small falls off the bed) YOU WILL NOT FIND A BETTER BANG FOR THE BUCK trust me I’ve been threw 3 or 4 other brands before this one and they didn’t last a week with me.”
Other specs: Eight attachments, 24-hour battery life, seven speeds.
Pros:
- Very affordable price and available on Amazon
- Eight attachments and seven speeds — a lot for a budget massage gun
- Comes with a carrying case
- Great reviews
- Frequently on sale
Cons:
- Can feel a bit heavy when in hand for long periods
- Some reviews say that battery may stop holding a full charge after a while
Best massage gun from Amazon: Elefor Massage Gun
Talk about an Amazon all-star. This massage gun was the first pick on the massage gun page of the site and for good reason. It now has more than 17,500 reviews and an average 4.5-star rating, making it a customer favorite. We also love it for its many attachments and the price, which frequently goes on sale.
What customer reviews say: “It’s easy to assemble (changing out the various massager pieces, per targeted muscle), easy to use (just turn on at the bottom, and tap up or down for preferred speed), and great battery life! I really enjoy both KNOWING the battery life at all times, and simply TAPPING the up and down button for preferred massaging speed. The LED lighted numbers for speed and battery life are easily visible, and the overall massager is easy to hold while using.”
Other specs: 10 attachments, two-hour battery life, 20 speeds.
Pros:
- Amazing ratings on Amazon from customers
- The LED touchscreen is easy to use when changing settings
- Great amount of speeds and deep muscle penetration
- Great array of attachments
- Reviews say it is relatively quiet, even at a high power
Cons:
- Some reviews say it can feel bulky in your hand when in use
FAQ with expert Camila Perez:
Q: What do massage guns really do? A: “They use rapid and repetitive pressure to target specific areas of the body,” said Perez. “Overall, massage guns can be an effective tool for promoting muscle recovery, reducing pain, and improving mobility.” She then listed the five major things that happen in the body during a massage, listed below:
- 1. Increase blood flow: Massage guns can help increase blood flow to the targeted area, which can help deliver oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and other tissues and remove waste products.
- 2. Reduce muscle tension: The rapid pressure of massage guns can help reduce muscle tension by promoting the release of trigger points and increasing blood flow to the affected area.
- 3. Decrease pain: Massage guns can help decrease pain by promoting the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers, and reducing inflammation in the muscles.
- 4. Break up scar tissue and adhesions: Massage guns can help break up scar tissue and adhesions by breaking down the collagen fibers that make them up.
- 5. Improve range of motion: Massage guns can help improve the range of motion by reducing muscle tension and promoting the release of adhesions and scar tissue.
Q: What areas of the body can I use a massage gun on? A: “Large muscle groups — massage guns can be used on large muscle groups, such as the quads, hamstrings, calves, and back, to help reduce muscle tension and improve blood flow,” said Perez. “Sore or tight spots — massage guns can be used to target specific areas that are sore or tight, such as trigger points or knots. [And] areas of tension — massage guns can be used to work out areas of tension, such as the neck, shoulders, and hips.”
Q: Where should I NOT use a massage gun? A: “Massage guns should not be used on bony areas, such as the spine, ribs, or joints, as they can cause discomfort or even injury,” said Perez. “Massage guns should also not be used directly on nerves or blood vessels, as they can cause damage or irritation. Massage guns should not be used on injured or inflamed areas, as they can aggravate the condition and delay healing.”
Q: What is the best way to begin to use a massage gun? A: “Turn the device on before you start, in the lower setting, and increase gradually,” explained Perez. “Hold the massager perpendicularly, and let the head graze the skin over the muscle. Resist the urge to push the massager into your muscle — the up and down motion of the gun will do the work for you. Just float the massage head on the skin, or over a thin layer of clothing. Some massage guns will stall if you apply too much pressure during your session to prevent injury or bruising.
Q: This hurts. Is that okay? A: “A little discomfort is okay, but stop the gun if you feel actual pain. If someone uses a massage gun on you, speak up if you feel pain,” warned Perez.
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