After an intense workout, you need a session of percussive therapy that can really enhance your body’s muscle recovery. The best way to enjoy percussion massages from the comfort of your home is by using a massage gun for deep tissue massage. Theragun by Therabody is already established as one of the best percussive therapy device brands on the market.
However, it’s available in 4 different fourth-generation Theraguns that suit different requirements. So, which massage gun is the ideal option for you? If you’re interested in seeing a side-by-side comparison of the Theragun Prime vs Theragun Pro check out this article by clicking here.
Today, we’ll put Theragun Prime vs Elite vs Pro vs Mini to head in terms of various features that they offer. From stall force to speed settings to massage experience – we’ll compare them to help you find the best. This way, you’ll be able to pick your ideal fit. So without further ado, let’s dive in!
Best Overall is the Theragun PRO:
We’ll start with a comparison summary of these massage guns and then we’ll get into further detail as we go on:
Contents
Theragun Pro vs Elite
The Theragun Pro vs Elite are the two higher-end percussive therapy devices, which is reflected in their features but also in the price tag. They’re the two most expensive models in the range. Both Theragun devices come with Bluetooth app integration, a powerful proprietary brushless motor, patented ergonomic handle, customizable speed ranges, good battery life, and a number of attachments to suit all body parts.
The main difference between the Theragun Pro vs Elite is the stall force. The Theragun Pro comes with 60 lbs and the Theragun Elite with 40 lbs. Both Theragun massage guns are very capable of a powerful deep tissue massage but the Theragun PRO is the more professional grade massage gun.
Theragun Prime vs Elite
When comparing Theragun Prime vs Elite you’ll see that these are the two mid-range models, with the Theragun Elite being the more powerful of the two. This also makes it slightly more expensive. Both are a similar style with an ergonomic, adjustable arm handle.
The Theragun Elite has the same 120-minute battery life as the Theragun Prime, but a higher stall force of 40 lbs and comes with an extra attachment. This is a wedge attachment for shoulder blades and IT bands.
Both have the same 16 mm amplitude (or stroke length) as the Theragun Pro. This is higher than most other massage guns on the market, making Therabody massage guns the choice of physical therapists and for personal use alike.
Summary of Theragun Elite vs Prime main differences
Theragun Elite is more expensive (by about $100), has 10 lbs more stall force, and has 5 attachments vs Theragun Prime’s 4. It also has an OLED screen which Theragun Prime doesn’t have (this displays current speed and a responsive force meter).
Theragun Mini vs Prime
The Mini is the entry-level massager in this 4th generation range and is also the cheapest. Although it is the smallest and most portable, it lacks Bluetooth capability and the patented ergonomic handle of the others.
It also has reduced stall force so might not be the most suitable for athletes and those looking to treat stubborn trigger points. Still, it’s good for ordinary muscle tension and offers a quality massage experience albeit a less deep massage.
For an extra $100 the Theragun Prime has an ergonomic rotating arm, Bluetooth app connectivity, and a higher stall force of 30 lbs. It also has 4 massage heads whereas the Mini only has one (the ball attachment).
Stroke length is 16mm vs the Mini’s 12mm so it will give a better deep percussive massage. Battery life for Theragun Prime is actually slightly less by 30 minutes, but this won’t make a huge difference.
Theragun Mini review
Check Theragun Mini Price Here
Theragun Mini is the baseline model of the series. It’s the cheapest and most basic model that they offer, but that doesn’t mean it’s not powerful! It’s strong for its size and easy to use. Here’s a brief overview of some of its main features.
Motor Power
The motor is the most important part of a percussion therapy gun. That’s why Theragun made sure that even the Theragun Mini model gets a powerful one.
The Mini comes with a high torque brushless motor that’s able to deliver up to 20 lbs of force. This might not be suitable for the thicker build, for example, weight lifters with dense muscle. It’s plenty strong enough for the average person though looking for a good massage.
The massager also has a stroke length of 12 mm, which stands for the distance that the massager ball reaches into the body tissues and muscles. This is about average for many massage guns on the market, but lower than that of the other Theragun devices.
In addition to all that, the motor also has proprietary QuietForce Technology, which ensures a low level of noise while working. It’s not much louder than an electric toothbrush.
Built-in Preset and Speed Levels
Massage gun speed is measured in “percussion per minute”. The Theragun Mini offers 3 different speed levels, which are 1750, 2100, and 2400.
These speeds are more than enough for everyday relaxation and muscle recovery. Unfortunately, the Mini version doesn’t feature built-in presents, so it only works continuously until you shut it off. That’s not a major issue, but it’s not quite as convenient as the others.
Battery Life
The Theragun Mini has a single internal lithium-ion battery. Since the Mini version lacks some features that may eat up the battery, it lasts the longest among other models (except the PRO).
You can fire it up for up to 150 minutes before it runs out of juice! This makes it one of the better options if you’re not a fan of charging the device continuously.
User Interface and Accessibility Features
Simplicity is the main idea of the Theragun Mini. it’s the only model that doesn’t have an arm handle. Unlike the others in this range, the Mini lacks Bluetooth connectivity to the Therabody app.
However, It’s the model of choice if you don’t need a user interface screen or wireless charging. The massager comes with the standard ball head only. If you don’t use the other attachments frequently, this one will do the trick for you. It is mainly suitable for large muscle groups, so if you want to do some treatment on smaller more focused areas (like trigger points) you’re better off choosing a massage device with more massage heads like the Theragun Prime.
Portability and Storage
This massager is built for portability, you can take it just about anywhere, as it fits all bags or purses. You can even fit it in your pocket. It weighs about 1.43 lbs and comes with a soft case to keep it protected. Due to its size and weight, it’s the most easily portable of the 4 options.
Warranty
The Mini model comes with Theragun’s standard 1-year warranty policy.
Read Theragun Mini Reviews on Amazon
Theragun Prime review
Check Theragun Prime Price Here
The Theragun Prime has some major advancements from the basic Mini Model. Here’s what it’s all about!
Motor Power
It comes with a brushless powerful motor that’s also coupled with QuietForce Technology. Theragun Prime is designed to give a deeper and more powerful message, delivering up to 30 lbs of force.
The Theragun Prime is designed to push up to 16 mm deep into the tissues, which is quite an advancement from the Theragun Mini model which is only 12mm.
Built-in Preset and Speed Levels
The percussive therapy device has 5 different speed settings that are within the same range (1750 to 2400). However, in this one, you can customize it through a mobile app. But more on that below!
Similar to the Mini version, the Theragun Prime also doesn’t have built-in massage presets or modes.
Battery Life
The Theragun Prime features the same single lithium-ion battery as the one in the Mini version. However, this one lasts for 120 minutes only because it delivers higher force and amplitude.
User Interface and Accessibility Features
Similar to the Mini version, the Theragun Prime also doesn’t have a monitoring OLED screen. However, it has a completely revamped design that gives it both a holding handle and a fixed massage arm.
Additionally, the massage gun features Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to connect the device to the Theragun app.
You can also sync the massager with reputable health apps, such as Google fit, Samsung Health, and Apple Health!
In addition to the standard ball attachment, this one has different massaging heads for various purposes. The dampener (for tender or bony areas), the small muscle groups thumb attachment, Unfortunately, this one doesn’t have wireless charging capabilities.
Portability and Storage
The massager is still lightweight (2.2 lbs), which makes it decently portable. While it doesn’t come with an accessories case, it has its own travel pouch!
Warranty
The Prime model comes with Theragun’s standard 1-year warranty policy, which makes it a decent value for its price.
Read Theragun Prime Reviews on Amazon
Theragun Elite review
Check Theragun Elite Price Here
The Theragun Elite Model adds some of the luxury features, making it twice as much in cost as the basic Theragun Mini. We mostly compare the Theragun Elite vs Prime as these are the two that are most similar in the range.
Motor Power
The Theragun Elite comes with an enhanced brushless motor that offers higher torque, and therefore, more force. With this massage gun, you can massage reaching up 40 lbs of stall force! Stall force is the amount of force you can apply before the massage gun stalls.
They also have an amplitude of about 16 mm. This makes it ideal for those who have thick builds or highly muscular bodies.
Despite being more powerful, the massage device is surprisingly quiet, as it’s also coupled with Theragun’s QuietForce Technology (not much noisier than an electric toothbrush). The device also has a force meter to measure its force.
Built-in Preset and Speed Levels
Unlike the previous models, this one has massage presets built into it. You can enjoy three different Smart Percussive Therapy techniques.
Similar to the Prime model, you can adjust its speed level to your liking through the app. This allows you to choose the perfect speed from a range of 1750 to 2400 percussion per minute.
Battery Life
The Theragun Elite has a quality single lithium-ion battery, allowing it to last up to 120 minutes too. It’s a decent battery range.
However, the massager produces a significantly higher force. As a result, at the highest speed setting, the Elite is usually the fastest one to run out of battery.
User Interface and Accessibility Features
As the name suggests, the Theragun Elite version is designed for those who take percussion massage seriously.
For that reason, it comes with all the massage heads and attachments you might be looking for in a massage gun. This includes the standard ball, cone, dampener, and thumb heads.
This device also supports wireless charging and full-on Bluetooth connectivity. It also has an intuitive OLED screen to monitor all the stats!
Portability and Storage
The device weighs the same as the Prime model (2.2 lbs). However, it comes with an impressive hard case for further protection while on the road!
Warranty
Unfortunately, the Elite model also has the basic 1-year warranty Theragun offers in the previous devices.
Read Theragun Elite Reviews on Amazon
Theragun PRO review
The Theragun PRO is the highest-end percussion massage gun that the company has to offer. This means it also has the highest price tag. It has all the top features you might need in a massage gun and includes Bluetooth app integration.
Motor Power
As you might’ve expected, the Theragun PRO model’s motor is in a league of its own. The proprietary brushless motor has the highest level of efficiency while producing minimal noise.
However, this one is commercial-grade, which means that it competes with the one you find in massage guns found in resorts and health clubs! It’s also a favorite among sports teams and professional athletes.
The 60 lbs stall force is also coupled with a high amplitude of 16 mm for the best percussion therapy experience there is! A 60 lb stall force means you can press the massager hard and deep into the muscles (with a whopping 60 lbs of force) without it stalling. The force meter on the OLED screen shows you how much force you’re using.
Built-in Preset and Speed Levels
Theragun Pro offers the same five built-in speeds that you find in the Theragun Elite model, which is beyond enough for all kinds of massage therapy.
Using the Theragun app, you can adjust to go as low as 1750 and all the way up to 2400 percussions per minute with a customizable speed range. This percussion massager can be continuous or running in one of Theragun’s three smart presets.
Battery Life
Unlike the previous models, the Theragun Pro has 2 swappable lithium-ion batteries, allowing you to enjoy the session up to 150 minutes for each one! Interchangeable batteries make sure you never run out of power. There is a wireless charging stand available (not included with your purchase) if you want to avail of the wireless charging capabilities.
User Interface and Accessibility Features
In addition to all the attachments in the Elite model, this one also has a super soft attachment and wedge heads.
Additionally, it’s the only model with an adjustable arm, so you can move the head to your liking. This makes it very easy to reach all areas of the body. Not only that but it can be held with up to 4 different grips, so you can find the one that’s most comfortable for you.
Portability and Storage
The Theragun Pro is the heaviest one of the Therabody massage guns, weighing at about 2.86 lbs. In addition to the hard case pouch, it also includes a pouch for the attachments.
Warranty
The PRO massager has a generous warranty that extends for up to two years, which is one of the highest in the industry! Therabody is known for having good customer service, although their massage guns are so well built and durable it’s rare for something to go wrong within the warranty period.
Read Theragun PRO Reviews on Amazon
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
There you have it. A complete guide that compares all the Theraguns – the Theragun PRO vs Elite vs Prime vs Mini. Since the four massage guns are made by the same manufacturer, they still have a lot of aspects in common.
However, each one is ideal for a specific purpose. For example, if you’re on a budget, the Theragun Mini would be perfect for you. It’s also perfect for those looking for extra portability and doesn’t mind the lack of Bluetooth.
One has less force capability than the others so is more suited to the everyday user than athletes and fitness professionals. It’s not the most powerful massage gun in the range, but it can certainly still treat sore muscles, enhance pain relief, and is a great pick for a first massage gun buyer!
If you’re looking for a little extra without spending too much, the Theragun Prime and Elite would give you all the essentials for an awesome percussion therapy experience. However, between the Theragun Prime vs Elite, the Theragun Elite is the most popular of the range because the Theragun Pro and Elite have very similar levels of power (same stroke length although a slightly lesser stall force). However, the Theragun Elite massage gun costs significantly less.
However, if you don’t want to miss out on anything and want the “best of the best”, the PRO has it all for you in one package along with a long-term after-sale service! Interchangeable batteries, 4-speed settings, the highest no-stall force, OLED screen, and more. This percussive therapy device is the most expensive on the market for a reason – it’s top of the range. If price isn’t an issue then you might want to go for this one as it will last you years and is the top choice of many sports and fitness professionals and athletes.
One last thing, if you’re wondering is Theragun FSA eligible, unfortunately, the answer to this is no, not officially. You probably won’t be able to use your FSA or HSA to purchase unless you buy from a retailer that accepts it (try Recovery For Athletes).
If you’re looking for a discount on a Theragun unfortunately they only come around once a year during the Theragun Black Friday sale. If you’re shopping during November or December it’s the perfect time to buy!
Theragun Pro Testimonial
“I have been using the Theragun PRO Handheld Massage Gun for several months now, and it has exceeded my expectations in every way. As an athlete, I rely on regular massages to help me recover from my workouts and prevent injuries. With the Theragun PRO, I can get a professional-grade massage in the comfort of my own home.
The Theragun PRO is incredibly reliable and well-made. It has a powerful motor that delivers deep, targeted relief to my muscles. The gun is also very quiet, so I can use it without disturbing anyone else in my household. The six different attachments are easy to switch out, and each one provides a different type of massage experience.
Overall, I would highly recommend the Theragun PRO to anyone looking for a high-quality and reliable handheld massage gun. It has made a huge difference in my recovery time and has helped me stay injury-free.” – John, Athlete and Fitness Enthusiast.
