Best Massage Guns in 2022 - SI Showcase - Sports Illustrated

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Contents

1. Best Overall: Theragun Prime
2. Best Budget Massage Gun: Lola Portable Muscle Massager
3. Best Deep Tissue Massage Gun: addsfit Max
4. Best Massage Gun for Back Pain: Hyperice Hypervolt Bluetooth
5. Best Massage Gun for Travel: Hypervolt Go
6. Best Mini Massage Gun: addsfit Mini
7. Best Massage Gun for Athletes: Hyperice Hypervolt 2
8. Why buy a massage gun?
9. What to look for in a massage gun
10. How to use a massage gun
11. Massage gun costs
12. Massage gun accessories
13. Final thoughts

Massage guns are an important training and recovery tool that’s no longer just for professional athletes—or professional massage therapists. Massage guns combine the health benefits of soreness relief, muscle recovery and increased blood flow with the convenience of an at-home device.

The best massage guns offer plenty of health perks. Studies show that vibration therapy works as well as a massage by hand when it comes to reducing muscle soreness after exercise. Some reviewers say using a massage gun pre-activity can also reduce the time needed to warm up. Nets point guard, Kyrie Irving and Ravens cornerback, Marcus Peters, have each praised percussion therapy for helping them treat cramps and loosen up before games.

On the hunt for the best massage gun? Keep in mind that the best massage gun to relieve neck pain after weightlifting may not be the same for a runner seeking muscle recovery. Before you begin your search, pin down what you need in terms of price, portability, weight and force. Some of us want RPM akin to a jackhammer, while others prefer a gentler touch. Our list, compiled by expert testers, helps you find the best massage gun suited to your needs.

Our Picks for the Best Massage Gun:

Theragun Prime

therabody.com


Ranked one of the best-selling massage guns on the market, the Theragun Prime earned the number one spot on this list thanks to a powerful motor and intelligent design. Though one of the pricier options, smart features make it worth. For example, the signature ergonomic handle helps you massage hard-to-reach spots with better dexterity make it worth. Adjust the power between five built-in speeds ranging up to 2,400 RPM. Users can get around two hours of runtime without pausing to charge, putting it in the midrange for battery life. When the time comes to recharge, the wireless charge stand makes it easy to keep your device at the ready.

Tech-leaning users enjoy the Therabody App, which gathers details about your daily activity and integrates that information with Google Fit and Apple Health to create personalized wellness routines.

This is one of the pricier massage guns on our list, but the Theragun Prime may be worth the investment for those seeking deep tissue relief. Of all the massage guns on our list, this model has the strongest amplitude at 16 mm—the higher the amplitude, the deeper the percussion can penetrate into muscle tissue.

Specs

• Force: Up to 60 pounds
• Amplitude: 16 mm
• Speed: 5 modes
• Attachments: 4 massage heads
• Dimensions: 8.9 x 6.3 x 2.7 in
• Weight: 2.2 pounds
• Charge: Up to 120 minutes

Pros	Cons
16 mm amplitude reaches deep into the muscle tissue	Limited head selection
Personalized wellness routines via app	No carrying case
Ergonomic triangular handle	Several reviews report issues with the battery

Theragun Prime ($299; therabody.com)

Lola Portable Muscle Massager

dicksportinggoods.com


For those in the market for a massage gun under $100, the Lola Portable Muscle Massager may fit the bill. This lightweight massager offers plenty of versatility and power at an affordable price.

With four options of interchangeable massage heads and four speeds reaching up to 3,000 RPM, the little Lola gives higher-end massage guns some real competition. And in some cases, it may be an even better fit than more expensive options, as it packs easily into a suitcase or gym bag.

The Lola Portable Muscle Massager comes in blue, black, red, mint green and pink—fun alternatives to your standard color varieties. The amplitude is on the lower side compared to other massage guns, so it’s not ideal if you want the intense pressure for a deep tissue massage.

Specs

• Force: Up to 33 pounds
• Amplitude: 6 mm
• Speed: 4 modes
• Attachments: 4 massage heads
• Dimensions: 3.5 x 1.9 x 6.3 in
• Weight: .95 pounds
• Charge: 150 minutes

Pros	Cons
Great for traveling due to small size	Low amplitude, so it’s not the best for deep pressure
Carrying case included
Affordable

Lola Portable Muscle Massager ($79.99; dickssportinggoods.com)

addsfit Max

addsfit.com


Recognized as one of the best massage guns for deep tissue massage, the ideal addsfit Max user is after a solid, powerful massage experience. This device delivers adjustable speeds, 3,300 RPM and an amplitude of 12 mm—and all that intensity runs on an impressive battery life of about six hours per charge.

For those using their massage gun in the locker room or while watching the game, it’s worth noting that reviewers describe this gun as relatively quiet.

Plus, the addsfit Max is designed with thoughtful details like the anti-slip grip, comfortable silicone massage heads and a hard carrying case. Reviewers say this massage gun is a good value compared to others at a similar price point. Overall, it’s one of the most affordable massage guns for athletes—or anyone looking for a device capable of deep tissue work. Your purchase comes with a one-year warranty and addsfit will add another 24 months when you register it on the website.

Specs

• Force: Up to 35 pounds
• Amplitude: 12 mm
• Speed: 9 modes
• Attachments: 5 massage heads
• Dimensions: 17.4 x 6.5 x 24.9cm
• Weight: About 2 pounds
• Charge: 6 hours

Pros	Cons
Customized silicone heads vary in hardness	Plastic around the motor gets warm, minimal ventilation
Carrying case included
Long battery life

addsfit Max ($189.98; addsfit.com)

Hyperice Hypervolt Bluetooth

dickssportinggoods.com


For those who regularly suffer from back pain, a quality massage gun can offer welcomed relief. The Hyperice Hypervolt Bluetooth percussion massager pumps out plenty of force, getting up to 3,180 RPM, so it can dig in where you need it to (goodbye knots).

This brand is known for making some of the best massage guns on the market and a big part of that reputation is how the devices integrate technology to help you elevate your self-massage game. The device connects to the HyperSmart- app, which creates guided routines, takes feedback and makes real-time adjustments based on your body’s needs. The pressure sensor also shares visual feedback while you’re massaging so you get an idea of what you’re hitting and missing, allowing you to target problem areas with better precision.

Specs

• Force: About 35 pounds
• Amplitude: 10 mm
• Speeds: 3 modes
• Attachments: 5 massage heads
• Dimensions: 9.7 x 7 x 2.5 in
• Weight: 2.5 pounds
• Charge: 3 hours

Hyperice Hypervolt Bluetooth ($199; dickssportinggoods.com)

Hypervolt Go

dickssportinggoods.com


This massage gun is made to move with you, so you don’t have to leave your self-care routine behind when you travel or head to the gym. Plus, with plug adapters included, you can stay charged just about anywhere on the globe.

The Hypervolt Go has a powerful motor in a lightweight body that is smaller than most travel massage guns. Adjust between three speeds: 2,400, 2,800 and 3,200 RPM. In spite of the small package, the 10 mm amplitude makes the Hypervolt Go capable of delivering a deep-tissue massage. Reviewers note that for all its power, the Hypervolt is still fairly quiet—so you won’t even have to pause that workout playlist.

The two-and-a-half-hour battery life and 1.5 pound design make the Hypervolt Go an easy companion to bring to the track, on the hiking trail or toss in your carry-on.

Specs

• Force: 30 pounds
• Amplitude: 10 mm
• Speeds: 3 modes
• Attachments: 2 massage heads
• Dimensions: 5.5 x 5.5 x 2 in
• Weight: 1.5 pounds
• Charge: 2.5 hours

Pros	Cons
Plug adapters included	No carrying case included
Lightweight for travel	No Bluetooth or pressure sensor technology, like other Hypervolt models
Positive reviews confirm that it’s quiet

Buy Hypervolt Go ($199; dickssportinggoods.com)

addsfit Mini

addsfit.com


If you’re in the market for a pocket-sized massage gun that packs a punch, consider the addsfit Mini. With a force of 27 pounds and three speed settings up to 3,000 RPM, this mini massage gun delivers. It’s not just small—it’s tiny, at just under one pound.

Some users prefer the dexterity of a small, ergonomic device over heavy-duty massage guns. While the addsfit Mini is easy to maneuver to your trigger points, you do lose some intensity in exchange for the lighter package. With the 6 mm amplitude, you’re just not going to get the deep tissue therapy of a high-amplitude machine. Instead, this gun is designed for those looking for a gentler massage experience, or a lightweight and low-cost recovery tool.

Specs

• Force: 27 pounds
• Amplitude: 6 mm
• Speeds: 3 modes
• Attachments: 2 massage heads
• Dimensions: 12.9 x 4 x 10.4cm
• Weight: 0.8 pounds
• Charge: 400 mins

Pros	Cons
Case included	Low amplitude, so not capable of deep-tissue massage
Lightweight and portable design
Comes in gray and pink

addsfit Mini ($105; addsfit.com)

Hyperice Hypervolt 2

dickssportinggoods.com


The Hyperice Hypervolt 2 is a solid choice for athletes who want to take their pre-routine warmups and recovery sessions as seriously as their workouts. This model is a step up from its predecessor, the original Hypervolt massage gun. The upgrade features increased speeds up to 2,700 RPM, along with a new rubber handle and a lighter body, for easy maneuvering, while the high amplitude allows athletes to reach deep tissue.

This massage gun connects to the Hyperice app to feed you customized plans for consistent massage sessions. You can’t miss a spot when you use the pressure sensor to see exactly what muscles are being targeted. Plus, it comes with five massage heads in unique shapes, so you can find the attachment that best fits warmups, muscle soreness, back pain and anything in between.

Reviewers also raved about the noise level. This massage gun can be used courtside or at the gym without disrupting other athletes.

Specs

• Force: 45 pounds
• Amplitude: 12 mm
• Speeds: 3 modes
• Attachments: 5 massage heads
• Dimensions: 7.5 x 2.5 x 9.5 in
• Weight: 1.8 pounds
• Charge: 3 hours

Pros	Cons
Great for deep tissue massage	Ergonomic handle is still awkward, according to some reviewers
Very quiet
Lightweight compared to others with similar power

Hyperice Hypervolt 2 ($299; dickssportinggoods.com)

Why buy a massage gun?


Massage isn’t just meant to help to ease tension or de-stress—although those are meaningful benefits. The best athletes know that massage is an important part of a training regimen and that a massage gun can reach muscles that simple rolling and stretching miss. That’s why massage guns are a fixture in elite sports training facilities and gyms.

Massage guns are popular because they put you in control of your massage experience and you don’t have to shell out for expensive professional massages. Plus, self-massage allows you to locate your own trigger points and sore spots to discern exactly what your body needs.

Sure, professional massages are nice, but they’re not feasible for many budgets. A massage gun can be a one-time investment in improving your training regimen—and your health. Ultimately, incorporating the percussive therapy of a massage gun into your workouts could lower your potential for injuries by reducing lactic acid build-up, increasing range of motion and relieving muscle tension.

What to look for in a massage gun


The best massage gun is tailored to your specific preferences, budget and lifestyle. If you prefer a gentle vibration to address neck pain, a low-amplitude device could be all the power you need. An athlete looking for deep tissue work might want every bit of power a 16 mm-massage gun can offer. Those planning to travel with their massage gun—or those who find light-bodied devices easier to hold—may enjoy the portability of a mini massage gun, many of which still pack a punch even in their smaller design. Finally, consider how much versatility you want from your massage gun: Some devices come with a range of speeds, modes and interchangeable massage heads. For the most precise sessions, consider a device with an interactive app, with guided routines and real-time feedback.

As you consider the makeup of your ideal massage gun, familiarize yourself with these features to consider.

Stall force


This measure refers to how much pressure you can apply before the motor stops (that happens with even the most powerful massage guns). The force specification, measured in pounds, lets you know how much force you can apply and determines the potential intensity of the massage. Many devices have a stall force of about 20 to 30 pounds, while some of the best massage guns allow up to 50 p ounds of force, made for those who enjoy—or at least tolerate—a ton of pressure.

Amplitude


How deep into the muscle tissue can a massage gun reach? Amplitude, measured in millimeters (mm) describes how far the gun’s head moves back and forth, which controls how deeply it vibrates, or percusses, the muscle. Higher amplitude is not necessarily better, because that tends to deliver deep tissue percussion—and that’s not everyone’s goal. Most of the best massage guns have an amplitude around 8 mm or 10 mm, but some of the more powerful models can reach between12 mm up to 16 mm. If you’re not into breaking down tough knots, you can probably stick with a midrange amplitude.

Speed


The device speed, measured as revolutions per minute (RPM), tells the user how many times the massage gun hits the skin’s surface in one minute. Higher RPM makes the massage more intense. If you want a more gentle sensation, you won’t need to put a high speed device at the top of your list. Most massage guns give you the option to choose your speed so you can dial up the intensity as needed.

Portability


Many massage guns with the best reviews are substantial in size, which isn’t ideal for portability. If you’re looking for something you can travel with or take to the gym, you’ll want a smaller option. Downgrading in size doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice power, so pay attention to amplitude as you compare mini massage guns.

The device’s weight is important when considering portability, but it can also be a factor for those with weakness in their hands or wrists. Since you’ll be doing the massaging, you’ll want the size and handle of your device to be comfortable to lift and maneuver.

Battery


Massage guns typically have built-in batteries that can be recharged, although some do use replaceable single-use batteries. To charge the device, just plug the massage into an outlet or through a USB port. If you buy a massage gun with a built-in battery that fails, you may be out of luck. This is why a solid warranty is key—without it, you may not be guaranteed a replacement if the unit dies prematurely.

It’s important to know how long your unit will run on a single charge. For some, a 90-minute lifespan is just enough. Others want a long five to seven-hour battery life, keeping their massage gun ready for action.

How to use a massage gun


This is the fun part. Using a massage gun is as easy as turning it on and pointing it at your sore spots or muscle knots. Of course, some high-tech options might require a bit more homework. Adjust your dials to explore different speeds and try out the interchangeable massage heads. For instance, you may prefer a narrower massage head at a higher speed for your lower back, but a wider massage head at a lower speed on legs and arms. It may take time to get to know which massager heads and speeds are your favorites, or how to integrate health apps that give you the most value from your sessions.

Massage gun costs


Massage guns vary widely in price. You can find a starter device around the $100 mark, but many elite massagers run in the $500 to $700 range. The best massage gun for the price will be the one that does what you need it to and fits into your budget. As with any expensive technology, if you plan to invest in a higher-end massage gun, be sure it comes with a warranty that protects your purchase.

Massage gun accessories


Some massage gun brands include extras like chargers, carrying cases and additional massage heads. Massage heads can alter your massage, so consider how a change in head shapes (like fork, flat or bullet) and materials (silicone, foam or rubber) might improve your experience.

Final thoughts


Buying a massage gun can be a solid investment or a great gift. It’s best to define your specific needs before you start your search. Some people are into true percussion therapy (you may have seen the slo-mo videos that make massage guns look more like jackhammers). Others just want targeted vibrations to keep muscles warm from the bench, or to relax after an intense session. Both approaches have their health perks.

As you shop, remember that “best” isn’t best for everyone. By paying attention to your body’s needs and seeking out an appropriate style, amplitude and force, you’ll end up with the best massage gun for you.

Prices are accurate and items in stock at time of publishing.