The best massage guns are used to treat muscular tension and pain. All of them use a therapeutic motion to zone in on specific muscle groups.

A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health suggests that this type of therapy has positive effects on muscle recovery. There aren't any large-scale studies or literature reviews to confirm that these handheld devices could help you penetrate those next-day DOMs and ramp up your recovery.

A massage gun is designed for convenience. The best thing? For a fraction of the cost of a sports massage, you can use them. The best-rated massage guns range from top-spec devices to affordable everyday massagers. You can learn how to perform a Trigger point massage, learn about the benefits of massage guns, or learn about the best massage gun to buy right now.

Best massage guns

hypervolt 2 massage gun size and design

(Image credit: Joanne Lewsley)

The Hypervolt 2 has a powerful massage experience thanks to its ergonomics and easy use. Three speed settings and five attachment heads give you plenty of massage options, from general massage on large areas with the flat or ball heads, to targeting specific muscles with the bullet or fork heads. There is a head with a cushion for sensitive areas.

The connected app is what draws people to the Hypervolt 2. If you want to learn how to use your massage gun, you need to power it up. There is no fiddling with buttons when you use the Hypervolt 2.

You can see how much force you apply with an in-built pressure indicator and a black pouch that holds the attachment heads.

The Hypervolt 2 gives up to three hours of use before it needs to be charged. It is light enough to be carried to work, the gym, or on long-haul flights, and it is also approved as carry-on luggage.

The Hypervolt 2 is an affordable but effective massage gun that provides a similar experience to market leading devices such as Theragun, without the expensive outlay.

  • Read the full Hypervolt 2 review (opens in new tab)

Theragun pro massage gun

(Image credit: Joanne Lewsley)

The Theragun Pro is the most important part of the crown. It is easier to target hard-to-reach spots around the back and shoulders thanks to its innovative design. The carry case and six head attachment are included.

The gun has two batteries that can provide up to five hours of use. The gun has a stall force of 60 lbs.

It's difficult to beat the app. Users can connect their device and browse a huge array of video tutorials, routines and exercises to target fatigue, recovery, warm up and injury, as well as lifestyle- related exercises, such as working from home or relaxation.

The app allows you to perfect the pressure you apply during operation, and adjust your speed settings automatically, so you don't have to worry about doing it wrong.

If you have a big budget and a demanding fitness routine, or you have specific concerns you want to resolve with at- home massage, the Theragun Pro is the best option. It is not light. It is not easy to move a massage gun around the body. Some users say it is too large to be effective, while others say the motor is too loud.

  • Read the full Theragun Pro review

Lairlux massage gun being tested on leg

(Image credit: Sam Hopes)

The deep tissue massage gun uses 20-speed settings and six scuplture designed to deliver an effective full body massage. The device is small but powerful when it comes to drilling into hard-to-reach muscles and larger body parts. After testing the unit, we rate it highly as one of the best massage guns available, but you might need some assistance to muster some tougher punching power on larger muscles.

The massage gun is lightweight in design and cost and comes neatly tucked away in a travel case with a charger, six individually-shaped heads, and an instruction manual for a quick how-to lesson on performing a massage. Since we tested it, we are yet to charge it. If you want a travel companion that will keep you well-oiled on the go, the Lairlux EM03 is the one for you. This will not be the massage gun for you.

Hypervolt go massage gun

(Image credit: Joanne Lewsley)

The bonus of being a gun is that you can throw it into your bag, briefcase, or hand luggage. It is light at just 1.3 lbs, making it easy to manipulate around the body and use for longer periods, while its slim size and ergonomics make it ideal for people with smaller hands.

It has its drawbacks. The Hypervolt Go has a flat head for bigger areas and a bullet head for specific muscles. If you want something for sensitive areas or long calf muscles, you need to purchase them separately.

The quietest setting for the Hypervolt Go was 54 decibels. It is discreet enough to be used at the gym, at work, or on a flight.

The companion Hyperice app has a lot of video tutorials on the best massage techniques and expert advice on improving performance and targeting areas that need more work. The Go is not compatible with the app, so users will have to decide how much force to use themselves.

If you are looking for a massage gun that is light and comfortable to use, the Hypervolt Go is a good choice.

  • Read the full Hypervolt GO review (opens in new tab)

Recovapro Lite massage gun in pink

(Image credit: Joanne Lewsley)

Like the Theragun Pro and Mini, the Recovapro lite has its own carry case. The case has a soft leather charging mat that can be used to charge the device.

One of the quietest guns we tested at home was the Recovapro lite. This gun is perfect for being used in a quiet gym or at the office.

The Recovapro lite is just 1.5 lbs, making it easy to maneuver across the body, or use for an extra long massage. The handle and button make it easy to power it on and off.

The recovapro lite isn't the most powerful massage gun on the market With four attachment heads andomnidirectional movement, this gun can get right down into those niggling aches and pains.

The lack of a companion app is one of the drawbacks of the Recovapro lite.

  • Read the full Recovapro Lite review (opens in new tab)

homedics pro physio massage gun in use

(Image credit: Joanne Lewsley)

Two of the HoMedics Pro Physio's head attachment use warmth and coolness to target specific aches and pains. It comes with a well-designed carry-case with molded padding to pack away the gun and all the other items.

There are three speed settings for the HoMedics Pro Physio. It has a maximum noise level of 54 decibels, which is no louder than moderate rain.

The only massage gun that came with a heated attachment head was this one. The head warms up quickly and gives a professional massage.

Users will be able to choose from a variety of massage styles with the HoMedics Pro Physio. The gun is 2 lbs heavier than other massage guns and it can get tiring maneuvering it around the body.

It is a well-designed piece of kit that should stand the test of time. Users tend to agree, with many praising the gun for its sturdiness, and ability to ease away aches and pains after exercising or sitting at a desk.

Users will have to come up with their own tailored routines due to the fact that there is no companion app. It comes with a handy user guide that tells you which muscles to use and what intensity is best. This is a good start point for most people.

  • Read the full HoMedics Pro Physio review (opens in new tab)

therabody theragun mini

(Image credit: Joanne Lewsley)

The Theragun Mini is a small device that you can carry around in your bag, hand luggage, or purse.

The Theragun Mini is one of the lightest massage guns we've tried out. Therabody can be downloaded and followed in the comfort of your own home, thanks to its innovative triangular design. The gun doesn't have the same feel as the Theragun Pro because it doesn't have a wireless connection.

The gun is easy to use, with a single power button, and is available in a range of colors, including black, white, red, and desert rose.

You cannot buy a massage gun that is as quiet. It could be annoying in a quiet office or gym with a decibel level similar to a washing machine. The Theragun device has a maximum noise level of 54 decibels.

The Theragun Mini is not the most powerful massage gun you can purchase. It is fairly simple in what it offers. Users seem to rate it highly, with many applauding its performance and battery life.

  • Read the full Theragun Mini review

How to choose the best massage gun

There are many different types of massage guns on the market. Some devices connect to apps that show you how to use massage techniques at home, while others don't.

How do you know what to look for before spending a lot of money on a thing? Key features are listed.

Speed (PPM) or power

If you're new to percussive massage, look for a massage gun that has a range of speeds or power.

Size and weight

If you have small hands, limited mobility, or weak upper body strength, you might want to look for a lighter device that you can handle more easily. A well-designed handle will allow you to use the device more effectively.

Portability

If you want to take your massage gun with you on a long-haul flight, make sure it is portable. It is a good idea to look for a carry case or bag if you are going on a flight.

You will be able to work larger areas of muscle if you have a good range of attachment. If you want to get into specific areas, such as a bullet head, you need at least one flat or ball head. Cushioned heads are great for tender areas around the neck and shoulders, while fork heads are great for straddling the calves and thighs.

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