Theragun vs Hypervolt: Which massage gun is worth it?
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The recovery tech market has exploded in 2025. Massage guns are some of the most accessible tools to help ease post-workout tension and manage everyday muscle stiffness. That’s where Theragun vs Hypervolt come in. These two brands have dominated the percussive therapy space. Each promises muscle relief and faster recovery with targeted massage.
However, despite their apparent similarities, they may not lead to identical experiences in pressure, depth, and user-friendliness. To truly compare the two brands, the Cybernews research team and I analyzed their key features, comparing product specs, scientific literature, and reviewing real-world user feedback.
Theragun vs Hypervolt: overview
Both Theragun and Hypervolt make high-quality percussion devices. Below is a table summarizing how they compare on key specs and features.
| Feature | Theragun | Hypervolt |
| Price | Premium | Mid-range |
| Amplitude | ~16 mm stroke (Prime/Elite/Pro) | ~14 mm (Hypervolt 2 Pro) |
| Stall force |
|
|
| Speed settings | 1750-2400 PPM (5 levels) | 1700-2700 PPM (5 levels) |
| Battery life |
| ~3 hours (all models) |
| Weight |
| ~2.6lbs (Hypervolt 2 Pro) |
| Noise | 63-66dB (Pro 5th gen) | ~54-66dB (2 Pro) |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
| Return policy | 30 days (free returns) | 30 days (customer pays return shipping) |
What is a massage gun?
Massage guns, also called percussive therapy devices, are handheld, battery-powered tools that deliver rapid, concentrated pulses to muscle tissue. At first glance, they look like a power drill and use vibrations to massage soft tissue. The idea is to mimic a massage by floating the head over the skin and pulsing the muscles at speed.
Clinical studies suggest these devices may potentially support short-term recovery. For example, a systematic review concluded that massage guns may improve short-term recovery-related outcomes like muscle soreness. The authors also highlighted that massage guns may also be helpful in increasing flexibility in the short term.
However, it’s important to be cautious: as outlined in scientific literature, these benefits are usually slight to moderate, and the evidence mainly covers immediate, short-term effects. Massage guns should complement and not replace proper rest.
How we compare massage guns: methodology
To compare Theragun vs Hypervolt, I focused on key performance and usability factors, drawing from verified product specifications, independent lab tests, peer-reviewed scientific literature, and aggregated user reviews:
- Amplitude. I looked at each device's advertised stroke length, as this affects how deeply the massage penetrates. Most high-performing models fall between 10mm and 16mm.
- Stall force. I reviewed independent testing data and manufacturer claims to assess how much pressure each device can withstand before stalling. Higher stall force often correlates with stronger performance.
- Speed. I checked percussion rates (measured in percussions per minute) to determine how intensely each gun can stimulate muscle tissue. Devices typically ranged from 1700 to 3200 PPM.
- Noise level. I evaluated sound ratings based on third-party testing and user feedback, given the preference for quieter devices in home use.
- Scientific sources. I reviewed available academic literature on percussive therapy to understand potential health benefits and limitations.
- User reviews. I analyzed verified user experiences across platforms, focusing on consistency in feedback regarding performance, comfort, and reliability.
Theragun vs Hypervolt: price and value
Theragun devices sit at the high end of the market. In the US, Theragun is priced as a premium product. By contrast, Hypervolt models are noticeably cheaper. For comparison, Hypervolt 2 Pro costs roughly half of a Theragun Pro at the time of writing this review.
In return for the extra cost, Theragun offers more powerful performance with a deep 16mm amplitude and high stall force. Also, with Theragun, you can expect premium features such as an OLED screen, swappable batteries on Pro, and integrated cases on most models. Meanwhile, Hypervolt guns are quieter and lighter but often come with fewer bundled accessories.
While warranties are similar, both offering 1 year each, Theragun’s return policy is slightly more generous – you can expect 30-day returns with a prepaid label, whereas Hypervolt’s 30-day return requires customer-paid shipping.
Theragun vs Hypervolt: amplitude
Amplitude affects how deeply the muscle tissue may be massaged. Theragun’s full-size models (Elite, Prime, Pro) all use a 16mm amplitude, among the deepest available consumer units. The Theragun Mini has 12 mm. Hypervolt’s 2 Pro measures about 14 mm, and smaller Hypervolt Go models are roughly 12 mm.
Practically, this means Theragun can deliver a “harder punch” into tissue. Deeper amplitude may improve contact on very tight or large muscles. However, in everyday use, the difference may not be critical for casual users.
Theragun vs Hypervolt: stall force
Stall force measures how much pressure the device motor can endure before it stalls. According to my research, Theragun products had much higher stall forces. The Theragun Pro can handle about 60lbs of force without stalling. The Elite and Prime are rated ~40lbs and 30lbs respectively. The Hypervolt 2 Pro, by contrast, stalls around 35lbs. Lower-end Hypervolts (and Go models) stall with even less pressure.
This indicates Theragun motors are built “stronger.” In practice, very few users can or should push 60 lbs of force on a gun (that may even increase the risk of injury). But a higher stall force means the Theragun Pro feels rock-solid even under hard presses.
Stall force isn’t directly a health-related parameter, but it correlates with device durability and ability to handle intense use. For most people, however, the Hypervolt’s ~35 lb capacity is adequate for moderate pressure.
Theragun vs Hypervolt: speed
Both brands offer multiple speed (PPM) settings. The Theragun Pro operates from 1750 up to 2400 percussions per minute, with preset increments. The Hypervolt 2 Pro provides levels at 1700, 1900, 2100, 2400, and 2700 PPM. Notably, the Hypervolt Go 2 even goes up to 3200 PPM on its top setting.
In short, Hypervolt models achieve higher maximum speeds. I verified that Hypervolt’s highest setting hits roughly 2700 PPM (2 Pro) or 3200 PPM (Go 2) in practice. The Theragun’s top setting is a bit lower (2400 PPM), though it allows continuous adjustment via the app.
What does this mean for you? More PPM means more pulses per second but also requires more motor effort. In my review of most common user feedback, Hypervolt “feels faster” on maximum, while Theragun’s speed felt slightly gentler (but with a deeper amplitude to balance it). If speed alone is the goal (e.g. very rapid massage), Hypervolt has the edge.
Theragun vs Hypervolt: design and ergonomics
The Theragun Pro has an iconic triangular handle that lets you grip the device in multiple ways. This design makes it versatile: you can hold it by different arms to reach various body areas comfortably. The Pro even has an adjustable arm to extend reach, helpful for back and shoulders. The build is solid and feels “premium,” though it’s on the heavier side of around 2.9lbs. Overall, the Theragun’s ergonomics emphasize versatility and power; for example, physical therapists often use its multi-grip shape to reduce arm strain during long sessions.
Hypervolt devices use a more classic T-shaped pistol grip. The Hypervolt 2 Pro retains this style, but with a textured, ergonomic handle that I found quite comfortable to hold. It is lighter than the Theragun Pro, which makes extended use easier on the wrists. However, because its head arm is fixed, you must angle the whole device rather than adjust an arm as with Theragun.
Theragun vs Hypervolt: battery life
Theragun’s Pro model stands out with its dual-battery system: it can run for about 5 hours (2.5 hours per battery). The Elite and Prime models have fixed batteries lasting around 2 hours per charge. Hypervolt guns use a single removable battery (18V Li-ion) and offer roughly 3 hours of use on a full charge.
In real-world terms, either brand can easily last through multiple short sessions before recharging. For those who need long usage, like physical therapists or heavy users, Theragun Pro’s swappable battery is a plus. For casual home use, 3 hours of continuous Hypervolt time is usually plenty. Both recharge in a few hours, and neither device ran noticeably down mid-treatment.
Theragun vs Hypervolt: noise level
Both Theragun and Hypervolt employ noise-reduction tech, but Hypervolt tends to be quieter, at about 54–66 dB depending on speed. By comparison, the Theragun Pro 5th generation generates around 63–66 dB at full power. Users often describe the Hypervolt as a gentle hum, whereas Theragun has a perceptible buzz.
In practice, the Hypervolt motor makes it easier to use in quiet environments without bothering others. Theragun’s QuietForce motor is an improvement over earlier models, but it still tends to sound more powerful.
Theragun vs Hypervolt: attachments
Theragun and Hypervolt both include multiple massage heads for different uses. For example, the Theragun Pro comes with 6 attachments (ball, thumb, cone, wedge, dampener, supersoft). The Hypervolt 2 Pro includes 5 attachments: fork, bullet, flat, cushion (round), and a standard ball. Both brands’ heads are well-shaped; Theragun’s attachments are foam-padded, Hypervolt’s are firmer plastic and silicone.
Since both kits cover the essential shapes, this comes down to quantity and quality. The extra Theragun head (Supersoft) is nice for sensitive areas, but not essential. Hypervolt’s fork and bullet are equivalent to Theragun’s cone and thumb.
Theragun vs Hypervolt: warranty and return policy
Theragun and Hypervolt have similar basic warranties but different return conveniences.
Warranty: Each offers a standard 1-year limited warranty in the US. Theragun’s devices also have an extended 2-year warranty in EU/UK regions. In practice, for defects or failures, both companies provide free repair or replacement coverage for one year.
Returns: Theragun allows returns within 30 days of receipt and even provides a prepaid return label. Hypervolt also offers a 30-day return window, but customers must pay the return shipping costs. I verified these policies on each official site. The difference is that Theragun’s return feels less risky with no shipping fee.
How to choose a massage gun that’s right for you
Even though some devices clearly excel the competition when it comes to certain features or specifications, that doesn’t mean it’s the perfect pick for you and your unique case. Here are a few factors to consider:
- Purpose: If you need deep muscle work, like athletic recovery or intense soreness, look for high amplitude and stall force, like Theragun. If you want general relaxation or mild relief, a Hypervolt can suffice. Think about your routine: sports recovery, daily desk tension, or use for specific health-related issues.
- Budget: Hypervolt models are generally more affordable. If cost is a big factor, you get more “bang for buck” with Hypervolt. If price isn’t an issue and you want top specs, Theragun (especially Pro or Elite) delivers extra performance.
- Noise and environment: For use in quiet settings, Hypervolt’s QuietGlide motor is advantageous. If you mind noise less, Theragun’s motor is powerful but louder at high speeds.
- Portability: The Theragun Mini and Hypervolt Go 2 are travel-friendly options. Consider weight and carrying accessories. Theragun Pro comes with a hard case, while Hypervolts usually ship with only a pouch, which might mean investing in a case separately.
- Ergonomics and grip: Try the handle design. I found Theragun’s triangular grip allows for more positioning, which can reduce arm strain during long sessions. Hypervolt’s pistol grip is straightforward and lighter, which some prefer for one-handed use.
- Tech features: Theragun devices connect to an app with guided routines, OLED screens, and a dynamic force meter. Hypervolt has a simpler button interface but also an app for speed control. If you value connectivity and features, Theragun has an edge. If you prefer “plug-and-play” without tech, Hypervolt is simpler.
- Attachments: Consider which attachments you’ll actually use. Both brands include versatile heads, so it may not be a deciding factor. If you have very sensitive areas, Theragun’s extra soft attachment might be useful.
- Safety: If you have injuries or medical conditions, consult a healthcare provider first. Neither device is designed to help manage health conditions. Both guns have guidelines to avoid direct use on bones or acute injuries. Use gentle pressure on tender spots.
Theragun vs Hypervolt: final verdict
In the end, both Theragun and Hypervolt are capable percussive massagers, but they cater to slightly different needs. Theragun models stand out with greater amplitude, higher stall force, and premium features such as a rotating arm and real-time force feedback. Its performance and build quality make Theragun the best choice for users who want a more advanced and powerful device.
Hypervolt, by contrast, offers a quieter, more affordable alternative that is well-suited for beginners or casual users. It delivers reliable performance for general muscle relief and recovery, particularly for those just getting started with percussive massage therapy.
Based on overall performance, Theragun is my top recommendation. However, Hypervolt remains a strong option for those who prioritize simplicity, quieter operation or lower cost. Choosing the right device depends on your goals, frequency of use and budget.
FAQ
Is Theragun or Hypervolt better for beginners?
Yes, Hypervolt is generally more beginner-friendly due to its simple controls, preset speeds, and quieter motor. Theragun is also suitable, but its higher power can feel intense at first. Both are safe to start with – just use low speed and short sessions.
Which massage gun is quieter – Hypervolt or Theragun?
Yes, Hypervolt is typically quieter. Its motor operates at lower decibel levels compared to Theragun, making it more suitable for quiet environments. The sound difference is noticeable, especially at higher speeds.
Does Theragun actually work for recovery?
Yes, studies suggest massage guns may support short-term recovery by reducing muscle soreness and increasing flexibility. Theragun may be effective as part of a broader routine, but it’s not a substitute for rest and proper stretching.
Can I use Hypervolt every day?
Yes, daily use is generally safe if done gently and briefly. Limit sessions to a few minutes per muscle group, avoid injured areas, and pay attention to your body’s response to prevent overuse. If needed, consult with a healthcare professional to help you use it correctly.
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The effect of percussion and manual activation massage on explosive strength and balance in young adult males: A crossover pilot study.
Heliyon (2024)
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Massage impairs postexercise muscle blood flow and "lactic acid" removal.
Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise (2010)
