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The Best Massage Guns to Reduce Soreness and Boost Recovery
Written By Omair Khaliq Sultan
I’ll be the first to admit that the research on the benefits of massage therapy is mixed. But let’s be real—nothing feels better than a full-body massage after a tough week of training or a foot rub after walking 20,000 steps in a day. While regular professional massages aren’t always practical or affordable for most of us (myself included), some things can come close—like a massage gun. You can easily target sore spots while watching TV or scrolling through your phone. Even if you’re not super active, a massage gun can help with those work-related aches and stiffness, making you feel much more relaxed.
We picked out a bunch of great massage guns that are available on Amazon, with our favorite being the Toloco Massage Gun. Keep scrolling to see why.
The Best Massage Guns of 2025
Toloco Massage Gun
Best Overall
The Toloco Massage Gun offers deep-tissue percussion therapy for athletes and everyday users. Its 10 interchangeable massage heads and 7 pressure settings allow customization for different body parts, with high-frequency vibration designed to stimulate the fascia for pain relief. The motor is fairly quiet, and the battery lasts up to an impressive 6 hours on a full charge, which can be done with USB-C (which is a really underrated feature). It’s also FSA and HSA-eligible, making it an attractive option for those seeking a deep tissue massage experience without the recurring costs of professional therapy.
We chose this massage gun as the best overall because it does everything you need, has fantastic battery life, can be very conveniently charged via USB-C, all at a very compelling price.
Bob and Brad D6 Pro Massage Gun
Premium Pick
The Bob and Brad massage gun delivers potent, yet gentle, deep tissue relief. Its 16mm amplitude and powerful percussion provide effective muscle recovery without excessive pressure. With proprietary engineering for quiet operation, this massage gun offers six speed settings (1500-2500 RPM) to tailor your massage. You also get multiple interchangeable heads designed for specific muscle groups along with 90-degree head adjustment for awkward-to-reach areas.
It also has a decent battery life, giving 180 minutes of continuous use, and a slick OLED display for easily dialing in speed settings.
TheraGun Pro Plus Massage Gun
Best for Professional Use
The TheraGun Pro Plus is a device that goes beyond traditional massage guns. You get the benefits of vibration, heat, and light therapy for maximum relaxation and performance, along with five high-quality attachments designed for specific muscle groups and pain points. The ergonomic triangle handle is much more comfortable than your standard massage gun, and the powerful percussion effectively targets deep-seated muscle soreness. The Therabody app includes personalized routines and guided breathwork, complete with biometric heart rate monitoring, for a unique immersive experience.
AERLANG Massage Gun
Most Affordable
If you need an inexpensive massage gun for occasional use or something cheap to throw in your gym bag, this is it. You get six massage heads and 20 intensity levels, ranging from 1600 to 2600 RPM with 10mm amplitude. You can get up to three hours of battery life with a single charge, although there is a slightly annoying built-in setting that powers off the massage gun after every 10 minutes of continuous use.
Overall, while this massage gun doesn’t have any bells and whistles, it’s built well, has USB charging, and gives you a few hours of use for cheap.
Buying Guide: Finding the Best Massage Gun
I’ve already discussed how helpful massage guns can be as a practical solution for relieving stress and tension. Below, there’s some helpful info for picking the right massage gun.
Understanding Key Features
- Amplitude: This measures the depth of penetration. A higher amplitude (typically 12-16mm) is better for deep tissue work, while lower amplitudes are suitable for lighter massage.
- Stall force: This indicates the motor’s power. A higher stall force means the gun can maintain consistent pressure even when encountering resistance.
- Speed levels: Multiple speed settings allow you to adjust the intensity to your preference and the targeted muscle group.
- Battery life: A longer battery life ensures uninterrupted massage sessions, especially for those who use their massage gun frequently.
- Noise level: Some massage guns can be quite loud. If you prefer a quieter experience, look for models with noise-reduction technology.
- Attachment variety: Different attachments cater to specific muscle groups and needs. A wider range of massage gun attachments offers greater versatility.
Determining Your Needs
- Intensity: Determine the depth of massage you prefer. Those with chronic muscle tension might opt for a higher amplitude and stall force.
- Portability: If you travel frequently or want to use the massage gun at work, a compact and lightweight model is ideal.
- Budget: Massage guns range in price, so set a budget before starting your search.
- Additional Features: Some models offer features like heat therapy or percussive therapy variations. Consider if these are necessary for you.
Tips for Using a Massage Gun
- Start slow: Begin with a lower speed and gradually increase intensity as needed.
- Focus on specific areas: Target tight muscles or trigger points for optimal results.
- Use proper technique: Hold the massage gun perpendicular to the muscle and move it in a circular or up-and-down motion.
- Don’t overuse: Excessive use can lead to muscle soreness. Limit sessions to a few minutes at a time.
- Consult a professional: If you have a specific injury or condition, consult a healthcare provider before using a massage gun.
Maintenance and Care
- Clean the attachments: Regularly clean the attachments with a damp cloth to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Store properly: Keep the massage gun in a cool, dry place when not in use.
- Charge regularly: Ensure the battery is fully charged before each use.
People Also Asked
What are the different massage gun attachments good for?
Here's a breakdown:
- Round head: The most common, suitable for larger muscle groups like the back and thighs.
- Flat head: Ideal for flat muscle areas like the chest and calves.
- Bullet head: Concentrates on trigger points and tight muscles, offering deep tissue relief.
- Fork head: Targets muscles between the spine and shoulder blades.
- Ball head: Similar to a tennis ball, used for rolling out muscles and fascia.
- Cushioned head: Gentle on sensitive areas like the neck and shoulders.
How often can I use a massage gun?
You can use your massage gun daily or more, depending on how you feel. If it feels good, use the massage gun as often as you like. If you feel like the massage gun is causing any pain or discomfort, take a break until the discomfort subsides.
Can I use my massage gun on bone?
No, you should never use a massage gun directly on bone. Massage guns are designed for muscle tissue, not bone. Using it on bone can cause pain and potential injury. Always target muscle areas and avoid bony prominences.
Is a massage gun safe to use with a pacemaker?
It's generally considered safe to use a massage gun with a pacemaker.
While there's always a slight possibility of electronic interference with any device, modern pacemakers are well-shielded. However, to be absolutely certain, it's best to consult with your doctor or cardiologist before using a massage gun if you have a pacemaker.
Can a massage gun help heal muscle tears?
No, using a massage gun on a muscle tear can worsen the injury.
The intense vibrations can irritate the damaged tissue and delay healing. It's crucial to rest and allow the muscle to recover properly. If you have a muscle tear, consult a healthcare professional for appropriate treatment.
How long can you use a massage gun at a time?
Generally, it's recommended to use a massage gun for about 2-3 minutes on each muscle group. Overusing it can lead to muscle fatigue or even injury.
It's important to listen to your body and adjust the time accordingly. If you experience discomfort, stop using the massage gun.
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