Bye bye sore muscles, bye bye tension and faster regeneration. All this is promised by new types of massagers. But are they worth the money? What can they really do? Our massage gun test will tell you!
The advertising promises a lot. But is there really anything to it?
The small devices are supposed to be true wonder weapons in the fight against actually pretty much everything.
Massage guns have been around for a long time in the USA. Here, they are just on the rise.
That's why it's so hard to find posts when you search for "massage gun test".
So we just decided to write a test post for massage guns ourselves. :) If you are interested in the topic, then you are right here.
Table of contents
- Why we make our own massapistol test
- Why Flow convinces in the massage gun test
- The Orthogun massage gun in test
- The OM-Go massage gun test
- The Burnnove in massage gun test
- Why so many buy the Renpho massage gun
- Why the Hypervolt massage gun is tested so often
- The Theragun massage gun test
- How the massager feels on the skin
- What to look for when buying a massage gun
- Why should I buy a massage gun?
- For whom a massage gun test is worthwhile
Why we make our own massapistol test
If you look for a massage gun test at Stiftung Warentest, you won't find it. The invention is too young.
But if you are completely honest, that is not even necessary. After all, the devices are all very similar. What makes them different is the power and the number of attachments.
You can find a whole range of suppliers on Amazon. The selection of massage guns has grown tremendously within a few months.
If you want to choose a device, you can click through reviews and see if buyers have uploaded videos and photos.
If you believe the ratings and reviews, most of them are rated Good or Very Good.
But beware: Often these are fake reviews. This can happen even with verified reviews. Really annoying.
We have therefore simply created our own massage gun test and made ourselves smart. We do the research and make sure that the decision is easier for you.
Unlike most Massage Gun Test Report author we have really had the devices in our hands.
Does a massage gun help with tension?
Why Flow convinces in the massage gun test
The big advantage of the Flow device is that you can choose between the mini and the normal version.
Both models come with a 12-month warranty and a 30-day exchange policy.
Flow Recovery Mini
For the mini model, you can choose between blue and pink. It is described as the perfect device for getting started with vibration massage. It has a very high power and at the same time light weight.
The Mini Flow weighs just 800 grams. Unlike many large models, it is very light in the hand. It is the lightest massage gun on the market and therefore also well suited for women's hands.
Technical details
- Beats: up to 3200 per minute (program 3)
- Weight: 800 gram
- Volume: 40 dB
- Massage programs: 3
- Essays: 4
- Watt: 60
- Stroke: 10 mm
With the code "wegoflow10" you can get 10% Discount secure when ordering!
You can order the Flow Recovery models at Amazon or directly via the website. It is worth to drop by the website. Here you can find detailed information about the models and how they work.
Be quick! The Mini Massagegun from Flowrecovery is on sale right now!
You can choose from 3 programs at the touch of a button. The first program delivers 1800 beats per minute. The second 2400 beats and the very intense 3200 beats per minute.
If you want, you can also activate the flow mode. This alternates between 1800 and 3200 beats per minute.
Our clear recommendation if you are in the Massage gun test are looking for a model for leisure, are not a professional athlete and want to enjoy the many benefits of the massager.
Flow Recovery Pro Massage Gun Test
Or how about with the Pro Version? You have to dig a bit deeper into your pocket, but the device can do a lot more.
Unlike the Mini for hobby athletes, this model is aimed at sportsmen, athletes and physiotherapists. In other words, to real professionals.
With up to 5 hours of battery life, this gun is one of the models with the longest runtime ever.
Technical details
- Beats: up to 3200 per minute (program 3)
- Weight: 1.1 kg
- Volume: 40 dB
- Massage programs: 3
- Essays: 7
- Watt: 100
- Stroke: 14 mm
This device is rather not suitable for hobby athletes. You can buy it of course, but you are also with the Flow Mini Massage Gun very well advised and can save you a lot of money.
As a pro, however, the Mini won't have enough skill for you. Feel free to try out both. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee!
Find out more about the Flow Pro here!
The Orthogun massage gun in test
The orthogun is for professional athletes and helps you improve blood and lymph flow.
You can choose from 5 programs, the highest of which manages 3200 revolutions.
It fits very well in the hand because it is very small. With only 828 grams, it is one of the lightest massage guns on the market. The battery lasts up to 6 hours, an empty battery is recharged in 30 minutes.
For your massage you can choose from 7 attachments. 2 of them are made of metal and therefore also suitable for massage oils. One is especially soft and made for sensitive areas.
You can use the Orthogun ordered via the website and get more information about the model here!
Technical details
- Beats: up to 3200 per minute (program 3)
- Weight: 1.1 kg
- Volume: 40 dB
- Massage programs: 3
- Essays: 7
- Watt: 100
- Stroke: 14 mm
Find out more about the OrthoGun here!
The OM-Go massage gun test
To loosen the muscles after running, climbing or strenuous sports unit, for this usually a small device is enough. With the OM-Go has orthomechanics launched a massage gun that fits in any sports bag.
In terms of handling, this model is by far the best for me. Its special design makes it very easy to hold in the hands. It is one of the lightweights with strong performance.
You can also buy it in pink or black. Despite its small size, it does not lose any performance. The OM-Go is ideal for everyday use and for those who are not professional athletes.
The set contains 4 soft attachments that are optimal for the neck and lower back.
Technical details
- Beats: up to 2760 per minute
- Weight: 460 kg
- Volume: 35 dB
- Massage programs: 3
- Essays: 4
- Watt: 100
- Stroke: 8 mm
Learn more about the OM-Go massage gun here!
The Burnnove in massage gun test
Or how about the massage gun, which has by far the most massage programs? Because you have so much choice, you can use it to relieve light to very strong tension.
Level 1 I can highly recommend for neck tension of all!
Compared to the Flow Mini, the Burnnove Gun a bit heavier in the hand. But that is no wonder, since it is quite a bit bigger than the Flow.
It has a very good price-performance ratio for so many massage levels and eight different attachments.
With 10 hours of battery life, it is clearly one of the longer-lasting models.
Technical details
- Beats: up to 3300 per minute (program 99)
- Weight: 1,4 kg
- Volume: 40 dB
- Massage programs: 99
- Essays: 8
- Watt: 100
- Stroke: 14 mm
This device is suitable for hobby athletes and professionals, because you can use it flexibly thanks to the many programs. You don't pay any shipping costs.
You can find more info about this model here!
Why so many buy the Renpho massage gun
The massage gun from Renpho has the most positive reviews on Amazon. Why? The reason is simple: it is priced so that really everyone can afford it.
It is also interesting for hobby athletes, because it is not so expensive. On Amazon, the model from Renpho tops the best list.
With 5 intensity modes and 6 massage heads for not even 100 euros, it has a very good price-performance ratio.
Technical details
- Beats: up to 3200 per minute
- Weight: 680 g
- Volume: 45 dB
- Massage programs: 5
- Essays: 6
- Stroke: 10 mm
At 45 dB, it is still one of the quiet massage guns, but it is noticeably louder than Flow Recovery's devices. The manufacturer promises 3 to 5 hours of battery life - depending on the program.
Find out more about this massage gun here!
Why the Hypervolt massage gun is tested so often
If you've done a little research on the subject, you've probably already discovered the Hypervolt massage gun. This model is also highly recommended.
That's not because it's so much better than the others. It was simply the first model. The Hypervolt massage gun comes from the USA and is the model that has been on the market the longest.
It was sold out within a very short time. The Hypervolt is the mother of all muscle guns, so to speak. That's why there are so many variations and specialized models, like the Hyvervolt Go for deep tissue.
If that's worth an additional 200 Euros, you'll love the massager. Other models perform similarly and are cheaper.
Technical details
- Beats: up to 3200 per minute
- Weight: 700 g
- Volume: 65 dB
- Massage programs: 3
- Essays: 2
- Watt: 90
- Stroke: 12 mm
Important: This model is only suitable for people with a lot of muscles. Those who are just starting to build muscle should take a less powerful device.
More info about the Hypervolt can be found here!
The Theragun massage gun test
From a purely visual point of view, most massage guns look quite the same at first glance. It's different with the Theragun. The device from the USA looks different.
The triangular shape of the handle not only makes a visual impact.
You always have the option of touching the device differently. If you can't reach a spot, you simply grab it differently.
Technical details
- Beats: up to 2400 per minute
- Weight: 1.3 kg
- Programs: 5
- Essays: 6
- Stroke: 16 mm
Unlike the other models, it is more expensive. But can also be used more versatile because of the special handle.
Back, neck, arms - you can really get to every part.
Another big advantage is that the attachment of 16 mm is much larger than the other models. This makes it much easier to reach deep muscles with the massage gun.
How the massager feels on the skin
Honestly - I've never had a massage gun in my hands. Until now. Accordingly, I am curious.
How will it feel? Is it pleasant or rather painful?
Good conditions for me: I have a slight muscle soreness. The gun should come just in time.
I take the pistol out of the packaging. It lies well in the hands and is neither heavy nor unwieldy.
The test is performed on the thigh. I put it on and press the start button.
A pleasant tingling sensation spreads along the thigh. But not only at the point where I start, but also at least 10 cm further in all directions.
What strikes me is that the wrist is also shaken quite a bit.
At the small light flow mini much less than the large heavier models.
For 5 minutes I massage my right thigh from top to bottom and right to left. The lightest level is best suited for this. From the second and third, I quickly switch back to the first. The higher intervals are probably not made for sore muscles and don't feel as good.
I deliberately do this test on one leg only. That way I can maybe see a difference the next day.
Overall, my leg feels nice and shaken afterwards. And somehow warm.
I put the massager away again and repeat the process again in the evening for 5 minutes.
The next day, I actually notice a difference in the morning. I still feel the sore muscles in both thighs. But: The right leg doesn't feel quite as heavy.
The non-massaged (left) leg still feels tired and heavy. Just like a sore muscle feels. The right leg seems fitter and lighter to me, although I still feel the muscle pain, of course. But just somehow different.
It is difficult to describe. It's best to do a massage gun test yourself. With many devices you have a 30-day money back guarantee.
What to look for when buying a massage gun
Our massage gun test has made you curious?
You want to buy yourself a massage gun now?
Then here come a few points you should consider before you snap.
The performance
Should it be a light massage? Or a very intense program to stimulate the muscles?
While some up to 3000 beats per minute others stop at 500 strokes. You can set the speed between low, medium and full.
If you want to relieve pain, warm up or activate muscles, or get rid of tension, then a massage gun can help you.
By the way, many inexpensive devices are comparatively loud in use.
The battery
If you want to do a massage gun test yourself and order several models, you will quickly notice that there are big differences in the battery.
Very professional devices, which are usually also expensive, hold the battery for up to 5 hours. With very poor devices, it is already over after one hour.
Then it's called: charge massage gun with the power plug at the socket.
The price
A massage gun is available from about 100 euros. Upwards, there's hardly any limit. A device can cost up to 500 euros.
Often, however, very expensive massage guns hardly differ from the cheaper models.
The guarantee
Everywhere you read and hear about the new massage devices. But beware: many dubious dealers also make a good business here.
Therefore, make sure that you have at least 1 year warranty. The longer the better, of course.
Spare parts also come into play with the warranty.
Why should I buy a massage gun?
Are you one of those people who sit a lot at work? Then you definitely know this problem: tension and pain in the neck and back.
The wrong posture when sitting and not enough compensatory movement mean that the pain can become really uncomfortable.
Massage guns are supposed to be able to help here. But be careful: for the back and near the bones, please always massage at the lowest level.
A massage gun can also help with sore muscles.
Their vibrations and shocks can help you loosen and stimulate the muscles. You can use them when the muscles are hardened or as a preventive measure.
To do this, you use the different attachments. With our Massage gun test we noticed that 4 attachments are usually included. Sometimes there are more.
- Hammer - Front straight. Especially for large muscle groups like buttocks and thighs.
- Bullet - Small attachment, visually resembles a bullet, hence the name. Perfect for trigger points and hardened fascia.
- Fork - The fork is used for the back and the Achilles tendon. But you can also massage the calves with it.
- Medium - the normal attachment that comes standard on the device. You can use it anywhere, especially on more sensitive areas it does well.
For whom a massage gun test is worthwhile
The history of the massage gun begins in the USA. Here it is already quite normal that physiotherapists, alternative practitioners or athletes own and use one. Nice and slowly you can find them also in our country.
Especially since massage gun tests and reviews are increasingly appearing. That can make you curious.
The bottom line is that it is nothing more than a massager that works on battery power. Because the massage weapons have no cable, you can get very flexible to all parts of the body.
Relief for tension bring the fast and powerful shocks. You can reach the deep muscles very well. The different attachments allow you to adapt the device to your problem area.
The strong and punctual pressure can loosen trigger points and tense fasciae very well.
This makes the massage gun very suitable for those who are prone to tension. But also for athletes. The gentle programs can promote blood circulation in the muscles and thus accelerate regeneration.
You can also fight sore muscles with it.
For back pain
It is worthwhile to familiarize yourself with the Massage gun test to keep busy if you're prone to back pain.
Whether you sit too much or have to do physically demanding work, neither is healthy in the long run. In both cases you can get muscle tension and pain.
Besides stretching and loosening exercises, a massage gun can also help. Its blows can penetrate very deeply into the muscle tissue.
If that's the reason you want to buy a massage gun, then your device doesn't need to create very many strokes per minute. An entry-level model like the Flow Mini is perfect for you.
As a competitive athlete
If you are a competitive athlete, your muscles must be ready for action at any time. Your performance must be available from 0 to 100 at any time.
So it's worth it to shorten the regeneration. Because the gun improves blood flow to the muscles, sore muscles can disappear more quickly. You can simply massage away signs of muscle fatigue.
In addition, of course, sufficient sleep and a healthy diet are very important.
Because the massage gun can be used very selectively, this is very advantageous for athletes. You can take it to competitions as well as to training.
As a physiotherapist
Did you know that more and more physiotherapists have already done a massage gun test?
Many use the massager to loosen muscles before performing other treatments. This is already widespread in the USA.
Our conclusion
A massage weapon is worthwhile for everyone. Whether you are an athlete, suffer from tension or want to give your fascia a treat.
If you have never had such a device in your hands and want to start with it, we recommend the Flow Mini from Flow Recovery.
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