Overview: What Are Massage Guns?
Massage guns are portable devices that you can take with you anywhere to ease muscle tension and pain, improve circulation, strengthen muscles, help prevent injuries, ease stress, and more.
Sports physical therapist Leada Malek, DPT, SCS describes some of the key advantages of massage guns:
You can use a massage gun whenever you’re looking to relieve some muscle tension, but it may be especially beneficial to use after a workout to promote recovery with reduced muscle soreness [1].
While in the past it was mostly professional athletes who used these devices, they are becoming more and more popular among workout enthusiasts due to their efficacy, ease of use, and reasonable cost compared to paying for regular massage therapy.
In this review, we’ll look at massage guns up close and answer all of your most pressing questions. In addition, we’ll present our choices for the best massage guns of the year, as selected by our team of experts. Keep reading to find the ideal model for you.
What is the Science Behind Massage Guns?
Massage guns use persuasive pressure and/or vibration at high frequency and low pressure to stimulate the muscles, and the sensory stimulation to the nerves causes the central nervous system to cause reflexive inhabitation. This can relieve the tension and pain in the fascia – the connective tissue surrounding the muscles and nerves – and speed up workout recovery.
A book by Jack Martin provides a critical literature review on the use of massage guns as a rehabilitation tool for lower limb mobility and recommends them as part of a warmup routine to improve range of motion and reduce muscle soreness [2].
The stimulation also improves circulation to the area, and the added blood flow brings oxygen and nutrients to the muscles to improve strength, mass, growth, and flexibility.
A systematic literature review published in the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy by Lorna Sams, et al concluded that percussive therapy can decrease muscle pain and improve strength and flexibility [3].
Another potential benefit of using a massage gun is that it may reduce areas of cellulite or other scar tissue. While the change is not immediate, with regular use the added flow of blood to the area could work to decrease the issue.
A 24-week of women with cellulite study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science by T. Sadowski, et al concluded that regular use of a vibrational massage device helped reduce the visible signs of cellulite [4].
Best Massage Guns for Recovery: Our Top Picks for 2025
![therabody theragun prime]()
Best Massage Gun for Muscle SorenessTherabody Theragun PrimeGo to Review- At Amazon.com
![mebak 3 massage gun]()
Best Massage Gun for FatigueMebak 3 Massage GunGo to Review- At Amazon.com
![opove m3 pro massage gun]()
Best Massage Gun for Fitness EnthusiastsOpove M3 Pro Massage GunGo to Review- At Amazon.com
![homedics massager]()
Best for Relieve Muscle TightnessHoMedics Therapist Select Percussion MassagerGo to Review- At Amazon.com
![hyperice hypervolt go 2]()
Best Massage Gun for AthletesHyperice Hypervolt Go 2Go to Review- At Amazon.com
How We Picked
Trusted Manufacturers
We only recommend brands that have highly reputable, trusted manufacturers known for their quality products and stellar safety practices.
Science and Evidence
The products we select as best have a wealth of scientific research supporting their benefits, efficacy, and safety.
Cost Benefit
Whether expensive or low cost, all of our recommended selections offer significant benefits and features making them well worth the price.
Expert Recommended
All of the products we have recommended are expert-approved by professionals in the field, as well as by our own team.
1. Therabody Theragun Prime
Best For: Muscle soreness, tension, and pain.
Features: Comes with 4 Attachments including Dampener, Standard Ball, Thumb, and Micro-point for various muscle groups.
Price: $299.00
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Five speeds for customizable use.
- Ergonomic grip design.
- App connectivity for personalized routines.
- Good battery life lasting up to 2 hours.
Cons
- Noisy operation.
- Relatively higher price point compared to other massage guns.
More to Know
User Sharon.Cke. explains:
I bought it to give as a gift to my companion, I am delighted with this purchase which also serves me! The latter only tells me that it is the best gift anyone has given him, because of its usefulness. At first, we only used one tip, but the others have just as much space in the pack. An investment that is more than profitable when you see the frequency with which it is used and the almost instant relief.
2. Mebak 3 Massage Gun
Best For: Muscle soreness, fatigue, and tension.
Features: 7 interchangeable heads, 5-speed settings ranging from 640 to 3,200 rpm.
Price: $129.00
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Effective in relieving muscle pain and tension.
- Portable and lightweight design.
- Long-lasting battery life.
- Quiet operation is suitable for various environments.
Cons
- Some users reported issues with the tip breaking after extended use.
More to Know
User Peter Leckerling explains:
We find this massage gun to be absolutely fantastic. Power is great, plenty of attachments to do whatever you need it to do. The price point is really good. And the support from Mebak has been awesome. They’ve been on-hand to answer all our questions and handle any issues. Highly recommend the product and the brand!
3. Opove M3 Pro Massage Gun
Best For: Athletes, Fitness Enthusiasts.
Features: 6 Massage Heads, 5-Speeds.
Price: $119.00
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Effective deep tissue massage.
- Lightweight and portable design.
- Quiet operation.
- Long-lasting battery life.
Cons
- Limited variety in speed settings compared to some competitors.
- May lack some advanced features found in higher-priced models.
More to Know
User Hundeprofi explains:
It’s a really good massage gun. Makes a high-quality impression and then impresses them with the quality and accessories. The gun fits very well in the hand. Top device.
4. HoMedics Therapist Select Percussion Massager
Best For: Warm up muscles, relieve muscle tightness and customizable massage experience.
Features: Percussion massage, 5 intensity levels, Massage attachment, 2.5-hour battery life.
Price: $59.99
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Powerful deep-tissue massage.
- Customizable intensity levels.
- Portable and cordless design.
- Rechargeable battery with long runtime.
Cons
- Limited information is available on the Official site.
More to Know
User Frank Williams explains:
My therapist recommended this device for tight muscles in my neck. I did not know a device like this can relieve pain with heat and massaging. This percussion massager is a great value that works for me.
5. Hyperice Hypervolt Go 2
Best For: Athletes, gym people, fitness enthusiasts.
Features: 3 hours battery life, 5 Head Attachments, 3 speeds of percussion, Connects via Bluetooth.
Price: $59.99
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design..
- Powerful motor for effective muscle relief.
- Quiet operation with QuietGlide® technology.
- Long battery life for extended use.
Cons
- It can be expensive for some.
More to Know
User Joyce explains:
Given as gift, immediately reported that the Hypervolt helped with the leg pain that was felt from sitting at work. It is easy to hold and manipulate and is very powerful. Friend indicated that he will start with lower speeds due to impact power. No issues regarding battery life. Great product and speedy delivery.
6. Vybe Premium Muscle Massage Gun
Best For: Athletes, Fitness Enthusiasts, and Individuals.
Features: 9 speeds, 8 massage heads, 3 hours of battery life.
Price: $113.99
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Professional-grade deep tissue massage.
- Customizable speed settings.
- Quiet yet powerful operation.
- Portable design with multiple massage heads.
Cons
- It is confusing for some to use it effectively.
More to Know
User Nevin explains:
This thing is amazing. I believe the hype about this type of massage gun now. I didn’t want to spend a couple of hundred dollars to learn if this tech would benefit my wife or me. It is effective in a short period. I sit at a desk during the week and do projects on the weekend. This made Monday a lot less painful than I expected. My wife also likes it, and it helps with her pain.
It seems well-built, and I was surprised by the apparent cost-value ratio. Time will tell how well it will hold up. Even the case doesn’t seem cheap or flimsy.
7. Renpho R4 Pro Massage Gun
Best For: Athletes, Fitness Enthusiasts, and individuals.
Features: 6 massage heads, Tissue Massage, Adjustable Arm.
Price: $84.99
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Professional-grade deep tissue massage.
- Adjustable arm for targeted treatment.
- Interchangeable massage heads for versatility.
- Long battery life with a portable design.
Cons
- Limited information is available on the Official site.
More to Know
User Celine Labadie explains:
I was contemplating purchasing a massager for a while. I was pleasantly surprised with the quality as well as the carrying case the massager came in. This gun has more than enough power for massaging tight muscles. Highly recommend this for anyone looking for an affordable massage gun.
8. Theragun Pro Plus
Best For: Enhance their recovery process, relieve muscle pain, improve mobility, and optimize performance.
Features: 6 Therapies, 3 temperature levels, Built-in near-infrared LED light therapy, 5 attachments, 5 speed, Bluetooth connection.
Price: $599.00
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Incorporates six science-backed therapies.
- Built-in biometric sensor for heart rate readings.
- LCD screen for easy navigation.
- Versatile attachments for targeted muscle treatment.
Cons
- It’s quite expensive for most people.
More to Know
User Siam Rahman explains:
I’ve been using this product for a couple of months now and it’s made a noticeable difference in my recovery and relaxation (especially during rest days when relaxation is conducive to alleviating system fatigue). One flaw is that the battery life is not as long as advertised, but I didn’t find it to be such big of a problem since the product comes with 2 batteries, so you can use one while the other one is charging. The soft attatchment is an incredible addition, especially when using around the neck/wrists. The ergonomic triangular handle is an ingenious solution to hitting hard-to-reach spots on your back or lower body.
9. Hyperice Hypervolt 2
Best For: Muscle recovery, pain relief, and relaxation.
Features: Lightweight design at 1.5 pounds, quiet massage experience; Compact Design.
Price: $199.00
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Long battery life for extended use.
- Quiet operation with QuietGlide® technology.
Cons
- Limited information is available on the official site.
More to Know
User Joyce explains:
Given as gift, immediately reported that the Hypervolt helped with the leg pain that was felt from sitting at work. It is easy to hold and manipulate and is very powerful. Friend indicated that he will start with lower speeds due to impact power. No issues regarding battery life. Great product and speedy delivery.
10. Toloco Massage Gun
Best For: Athletes, sedentary individuals, fitness enthusiasts, and the elderly.
Features: Multiple Models, Powerful Performance.
Price: $199.00
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High penetration force for effective pain relief.
- Long battery life for extended use.
- Quiet operation suitable for home, gym, or office use.
Cons
- Risk of aggravated injuries if not used properly.
More to Know
User Vee explains:
This massager has been a wonderful piece for our family from the youngest to the oldest. The different range of settings makes it tolerable and not painful to use. Works wonders on sore muscles and I especially use it on my foot with having a high arch it alleviates a lot of pain. Great value for this piece.
Key Features to Look for in a Massage Gun
There are a few important features to keep in mind when you are choosing the best massage gun for you. Consider the following:
Manufacturer
It’s always best to purchase from a leading, well-known manufacturer, as they are more likely to have high-quality, safe products.
Speed Settings
Most massage guns offer different speed settings, allowing you different levels of intensity for your muscles. Check the number of settings and whether they are suitable for your needs before buying.
Amplitude
This is the amount of oscillation of the massage gun heads against your skin, with a higher amplitude offering deeper vibrations. An athlete or serious workout enthusiast may prefer a higher amplitude, while other users will likely benefit more from a lower amplitude device.
Noise
The motor units of a massage gun do make noise, but the level varies from device to device. If this is an important factor for you, check the device’s noise level prior to making a final purchase.
Battery Life
Massage guns are electrical devices that use a battery or plug, but many people prefer a portable device with a battery. Check the estimated battery life before making a purchase.
Safety and Precautions
On the whole, massage guns are safe if used correctly and not excessively, meaning you limit your sessions to a maximum of 2 minutes per muscle group no more than twice daily. Physical therapist Gary Calabrese, DPT explains:
When used properly, portable massage guns are generally safe and effective at delivering a literal quick hit of relief to the regions of your body where you carry stress, like your neck, shoulders, and lower back.
If you have underlying medical conditions, concerns, or are actively recovering from an injury it is always best to consult your healthcare team [5].
You should not use massage guns during pregnancy, or if you have carpel tunnel syndrome, deep vein thrombosis, or stress fractures.
In addition, individuals with chronic pain and/or inflammation should exercise extreme caution when using a massage gun and must get approval from a physician before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Massage Gun Actually Helpful?
How Long Should You Use a Massage Gun?
A: You can use a muscle gun every day to ease sore muscles, speed up recovery, and experience other health benefits, but you should limit your session to 2 minutes for each group of muscles maximum. In addition, you should not use it more than 2-3 times daily maximum.
Do Massage Guns Work?
A: Much of the research is on regular massage therapy, but there’s evidence to show that the percussive pressure and vibration of massage guns can improve circulation, ease muscle tension and pain, improve strength, reduce injury risk, improve workout performance, reduce stress, and offer other health benefits.
Do Massage Guns Work?
A: Much of the research is on regular massage therapy, but there’s evidence to show that the percussive pressure and vibration of massage guns can improve circulation, ease muscle tension and pain, improve strength, reduce injury risk, improve workout performance, reduce stress, and offer other health benefits.
Do Massage Guns Break Up Cellulite?
A: Using a massage gun regularly on cellulite can help reduce its appearance over time, although it is unlikely to eliminate it. One of the main factors leading to cellulite is a decrease in circulation to the area, and massage guns improve blood flow.
Do Massage Guns Get Rid of Knots?
A: Massage guns improve circulation to the knotted area, which over time could decrease or get rid of the knot. However, this does take time and several sessions, and will not happen immediately.
Do I Really Need a Massage Gun?
A: Whether you need a massage gun or not depends on your lifestyle, and whether you are employing any other methods to ease muscle tension and speed up recovery after exercise.
If you work out regularly or have a job that involves lifting or heavy muscle use, a massage gun can help with these and other health issues and is very beneficial. Others may simply benefit from the relaxation, stress-reducing, and other health advantages of the devices.
Conclusion
Portable massage guns are becoming more popular than ever, as they are an easy and reasonable-priced way to ease muscle tension, reduce pain, speed up recovery, promote muscle mass and strength, and reduce your risk of future injuries. You can use them daily from the comfort of your home, or anywhere else you choose.
In this review, we discuss the function and benefits of massage guns and present our list of the top brands available today according to the evaluation of our team of experts. All of the models we highlight are of the highest quality and safety, made by reputable manufacturers, and received glowing massage guns review feedback.
If you work out regularly, we highly recommend that you look through our list of top devices and consider purchasing one for regular use. They offer many of the benefits of regular massage, without the high price, and provide significant advantages. Looking for a more targeted solution for neck tension? Along with using a massage gun, consider exploring our list of the Best Neck Massagers. These devices are designed specifically to relieve stiffness and discomfort in the neck, providing a soothing and effective massage experience.
