Author: Ihor Shymechko (26 years of Oly Lifting & Training experience)
Reviewed by: Oleksiy Torokhtiy (Olympian with 21 years of Oly Lifting experience)
Whether you are looking to work out kinks in your muscles or just to loosen up before and after exercising, massage guns can be a great addition to your current fitness and health routine. Massage guns can help with muscle recovery, improve flexibility and even help reduce stress or anxiety.
However, many models can cost hundreds of dollars, which may be too expensive. So, if you are looking for the best budget massage gun, make sure to keep in mind several different factors.
In a hurry?
In a hurry?
In a hurry and can’t keep reading? How about you check out the Cholas Massage Gun.
For deep tissue massaging or muscle recovery after a workout, the Cholas Massage Gun might be the right option for you. The massage gun is built with enough power to handle deep tissue issues while still being an affordable option.
Our team of experts, consisting of professional athletes (including weightlifters, powerlifters, gymnasts, and runners) and doctors of physical medicine and rehabilitation, as well as conditioners, has conducted detailed, lengthy testing with more than 300 hours (combined) invested.
24 different massage guns that you may acquire on a budget were tested, and after ranking each based on power, speed options, battery life, durability, noise level, and price/quality, this list of the 9 best budget massage guns was created.
Top 7 Best Budget Massage Guns Reviewed
1. Cholas Massage Gun - Top Pick
For deep tissue massaging or muscle recovery after a workout, the Cholas Massage Gun might be the right option for you. The massage gun is built with enough power to handle deep tissue issues while still being an affordable option. For users looking for a quality device within their budget, this might be the right choice.
- Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
- Item Weight: 2.89 pounds
- Power Source: 6 hours of battery
- Color: Black, Grey, Purple
- Size: 11.5 x 2.87 x 9.76 inches
- Performance: 12 mm amplitude, 30 speed levels
- Product Benefits/Use for: Deep tissue massages, muscle recovery
- Items included: 10 massage head attachments
- Special features: 6-hour battery life, low noise level design, 30 adjustable levels
Power
While the massage gun is designed for deep tissue alongside muscle soreness, the device lacks quite the same level of power as some other models.
Speed Options
What the massage gun lacks in total power, it makes up for with speed options. With over 30 different adjustable speed levels, you can choose the precise level of power or speed you need for any muscle group.
photo by keto_with_lala
Battery Life
The massage gun also scores well when it comes to battery life, with the device lasting up to 6 hours of use on a single charge. This should allow you to use your massage gun for weeks on end without worrying about needing to recharge.
Durability
The percussion massager is designed to last for a long period of time without breaking down. The device may be susceptible to drops or damage from potential impact.
Noise Level
The Cholas Massage Gun is one of the best in the market when it comes to noise. Capable of operating at just 25 decibels, the device is one of the quietest massage guns you can find that still has solid performance.
Price/Quality
An incredibly effective and affordable option, the Cholas Massage Gun scores well considering its great speed levels, quiet operating noise and affordable price.
Positives:
30 speed levels
Multiple color options
25 decibel noise level
Could be better:
Does not offer direct specs on power or hits per minute
2. VYBE Percussion Massage Gun - Runner-Up
For those shopping on a budget, one if not the best massage gun under 100 dollars is the VYBE Percussion Massage Gun. Built with a powerful motor and multiple massage tips, the device can be a great option for anyone looking for quality muscle recovery while still on a budget.
- Power: 60 pounds stall force, 6 speed options
- Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
- Item Weight: 3.53 pound
- Power Source: 2 hours battery life per battery
- Color: Blue
- Size: 5.98 x 8.2 x 0.39 inches
- Performance: 16 mm amplitude, up to 2400 hits per minute
- Product Benefits/Use for: Muscle recovery, pain relief
- Items included: 3 massage attachments
- Special features: Rotating arm, ergonomic handle
Power
One of the biggest factors that sets the massage gun apart from other, similar models is the power. With up to 60 pounds of stall force, the device is capable of providing significantly more power than most massage guns in the same price range.
Speed Options
While not quite as expansive as some massage gun options, the VYBE Massage Gun comes with 6 different speed levels that you can choose between. This should be enough to allow you to choose a level that is comfortable for you, no matter your muscle group focus.
photo by reki13
Battery Life
The massage gun offers up to 2 hours of use per charge, which may be slightly lower than some other options. However, while the VYBE Massage Gun does have a slightly lower battery life, it does come with interchangeable battery packs. As a result, you’ll be able to swap out the battery for a fully charged new one, extending the life of the gun.
Durability
Another area where the VYBE scores well is durability. With a high quality build and sturdy materials, the massage gun should be able to handle high use without any issues. Additionally, the material should stand up well to drops.
Noise Level
With decibel levels between 60 and 80, the noise of the device is relatively moderate. This should be quiet enough not to cause significant disturbance when using the device. However, if noise levels are a major point of importance to you, there are some models that are quieter.
Price/Quality
When it comes to the overall quality for the price, there are very few, if any, massage guns as high quality as the VYBE. With a powerful motor and affordable price tag, the massage gun is a great option for nearly anyone.
Positives:
Rotating arm
Detachable battery pack
Up to 60 pounds of pressure
Could be better:
Low battery life
Louder than our other top picks
When looking for the best affordable massage gun, the Gladiour Massage Gun Deep Tissue could be a great choice for you. Designed with 30 different power levels and 10 different massage head attachments, the massage gun is built for versatility. So, regardless of your personal needs, the device should be able to handle it with ease.
- Material: Silicone
- Item Weight: 2.65 pounds
- Power Source: 6 hours of battery
- Color: Black
- Size: 7 x 6 x 5 inches
- Performance: Up to 4800 hits per minute
- Product Benefits/Use for: Muscle soreness, muscle recovery
- Items included: 10 massage head attachments
- Special features: 45 db noise level, 30 speed levels
Power
Similarly to the Cholas Massage Gun, the Gladiour Massage Gun Deep Tissue has solid power for the price. However, there are other models on the market that offer more power at a similar price.
Speed Options
With 30 different speed options, you have a lot of customizability when it comes to how you focus on different muscle groups. This should be more than enough to customize your massage gun sessions to your exact needs.
Battery Life
With up to 6 hours of battery life on a full charge, you should comfortably be able to keep the massage gun in your gym bag or even travel with it, without worrying about recharging it constantly.
Durability
With a shock-resistant silicone outer layer, the massage gun stands up well to impact and potential drops. Additionally, the device is built to last for a long time without any major issues or malfunctions.
Noise Level
With the massage gun capable of operating at 45 decibels, you should be able to comfortably use the device without it causing a major disturbance.
Price/Quality
At a relatively solid price for a budget massage gun, the Gladiour is a good option for anyone looking for a quality device without overspending.
Positives:
LED touchscreen controls
10 massage heads
Gripped handle
Could be better:
Charger wiring potentially faulty after extended use
Battery may lose efficiency after multiple charges
If you are looking for a cheap percussion massager, the RAEMAO Handheld Electric Muscle Massager is another solid choice. The massage gun comes with multiple power levels and an LCD touchscreen for easy use. Additionally, you can store the massage gun and 10 head attachments easily in the carrying case, so you can bring it with you anywhere.
- Power: 6 speed levels
- Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
- Item Weight: 3.81 pounds
- Power Source: 5 hours of battery
- Color: Grey
- Size: 10.87 x 8.82 x 4.53 inches
- Performance: 12 mm amplitude, up to 3200 hits per minute
- Product Benefits/Use for: Improve circulation, muscle recovery, pain relief
- Items included: 10 massage head attachments
- Special features: LCD touchscreen, 10 minute auto shutdown, carrying case
Power
When it comes to power, the RAEMAO Handheld Electric Muscle Massager is a great choice. Built to reach deep tissue and muscles, the device has 12 mm of amplitude.
Speed Options
With 6 different speed options, you should be able to customize your massage gun levels to fit your muscle area focus.
Battery Life
The massage gun offers up to 5 hours of battery life on a single charge. Additionally, the device has an auto-shut off after 10 minutes to make sure you don’t accidentally leave it on, draining the battery.
Durability
The massage gun is designed with a durable frame and has shown to last based on user reviews. Additionally, the device should continue to operate without any issues with the motor.
Noise Level
The massage gun scores well when it comes to noise level with settings capable of running at just 32 decibels.
Price/Quality
While this a high quality massage gun with quality features, the cost is higher than many other options.
Positives:
Duel-bearing motor for more sustained power
Carrying case
Automatic 10-minute shut off
Could be better:
Touchscreen can be unresponsive
Some massage head attachments have trouble staying in
Already an established name across other types of exercise equipment, the REP FITNESS RapidStrick Massage Gun should be a great option for you. Designed with an intuitive, auto-adjusting power setting, you will be able to customize your massage based on your own pressure.
- Power: Automatic adjustable power
- Material: Silicone
- Item Weight: 2.3 pounds
- Power Source: 8 hours of battery
- Color: Red
- Size: 6.5 x 3.5 x 2 inches
- Performance: Automatic intuitive power and speed scaling based on pressure
- Product Benefits/Use for: Muscle recovery, pain relief
- Items included: 4 massage head attachments
- Special features: Carrying case
Power
Built with intuitive power and speed levels, the device has power that is largely determined by the pressure you use yourself. The device does have enough power to reach the muscle tissue.
Speed Options
With a lack of multiple controllable options, the speed relies on the intuitive automatic changes when in use. There is a dial to set the speed, but the speed range is more determined by the intuitive automatic speed change.
Battery Life
With up to 8 hours of use on a single charge, the massage gun is one of the best on the market.
Durability
The carrying case and mix of alloy and silicone should make the device incredibly durable over the long term.
Noise Level
With a brushless motor, the massage gun is relatively quiet when in use to keep it from disturbing you.
Price/Quality
While incredibly high quality, the massage gun has a price tag to match it when compared to some of the other, more affordable options on the list.
Positives:
Fully charges in just 1.5 hours
Intuitive speed control
Easy to clean silicone massage heads
Could be better:
Just 4 massage head attachments
6. HeyChy Mini Massage Gun - Best Portable/Mini
For a mix of affordability, power, and portability, it is hard to find a better option than the HeyChy Mini Massage Gun. The device weighs just 1 pound and has an incredible small frame making it easy to take it with you wherever you go. The up to 22 pounds of force is also still powerful enough to provide solid interior pressure and effectiveness.
- Power: Up to 22 pounds of stall force, 14 watts
- Material: Plastic
- Item Weight: 1.03 pounds
- Power Source: Up to 20 hours of battery
- Color: Green, Blue
- Size: 5.9 x 5.4 x 1.9 inches
- Performance: Up to 2560 hits per minute, 10mm of amplitude
- Product Benefits/Use for: Muscle recovery, pain relief, deep tissue
- Items included: 4 massage head attachments
- Special features: Ergonomic handle
Power
With up to 22 pounds of force and a 14 watt motor, the small and portable massage gun packs significant power in its small frame.
Speed Options
With just 4 speed options, the massage gun lacks the same customizability as many of the other, larger devices.
Battery Life
The massage gun can last up to 10 hours on a single charge. This should be more than enough to last you for weeks or even months without needing to recharge.
Durability
While the device should not break down on you, the plastic outer shell is not as resistant to drops or heavy impact as some other options.
Noise Level
The device is slightly louder than some other massage guns considering the high power and small frame.
Price/Quality
The massage gun is a high quality and well priced device considering its size.
Positives:
Internal IC chip to optimize power and stability
Designed to be held in 2 different ways
10 hour battery life
Could be better:
Plastic shell lacks durability
Lowest speed level does not offer much power at all
For those who want muscle recovery while on the go, the Recoverfun Mini Massage Gun might be the right device for you. The mini massage gun comes with up to 5 hours of battery life and a travel bag, so you can easily take it with you anywhere without worrying about needing to recharge.
- Material: Aluminum
- Item Weight: 1.1 pounds
- Power Source: 5 hours of battery
- Color: Black
- Size: 5.63 x 3.58 x 1.77 inches
- Performance: Up to 3200 hits per minute
- Product Benefits/Use for: Muscle soreness, pain relief, workout recovery
- Items included: 4 massage head attachments, travel bag
- Special features: Noise level as low at 30 db
Power
The mini massage gun has solid power for its size, but lacks heavy pressure for the deepest tissue massages.
Speed Options
With just 4 speed options, the mini massage gun does not have as many choices as some other massagers. This may make your use of the massage gun less customizable.
photo by spidermeow
Battery Life
The 5-hour battery life on the device should be enough to spend weeks in between recharging.
Durability
Made of aluminum, the mini massage gun should stand up well to drops or impact. However, there may be some issues with the battery over the long term.
Noise Level
Operating at just 30 decibels, the massage gun is incredibly quiet when in use.
Price/Quality
The mini massage gun is a high quality device with a quiet but powerful motor. The cost of the device is slightly higher than some options, but is still relatively affordable.
Positives:
Aluminum flat head massage attachment
Extremely lightweight
6 month battery warranty and 1 year motor and device warranty
Could be better:
Battery life falters after long-term use and may need to be replaced
Paint chips with drops
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What Is a Massage Gun?
A massage gun is a handheld percussive device designed to help reduce pain and improve muscle recovery times, among many other purposes. In essence, a massage gun should be able to provide a targeted handheld massage. The gun is built to be used by personal users as well as by professional athletes alike.
Difference Between Cheap and Expensive Massage Guns
While there are no specific major differences between a cheap and expensive massage gun, there are many quality factors that may come into play. For instance, many higher priced massage guns may come with a longer lasting battery, more accurate speed adjustments, or higher power motors. These factors are not specific to more expensive massage guns, but may be the difference makers that lead to higher prices.
What Are the Benefits of a Massage Gun?
✅ Improve Muscle Recovery
Perhaps the biggest benefit to using a massage gun is the improved muscle recovery. For those who work out regularly, soreness and a buildup of stiffness from delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), is fairly common. The use of a massage gun has been shown to reduce or even completely prevent that pain in your muscles if used regularly.
✅ Better Circulation
Due to the percussive nature of massage guns, using one on your body can help stimulate and increase blood flow to the area being focused on. This in turn can lead to better overall circulation. Additionally, by relaxing the muscles, this allows for an easier movement of blood in areas that might otherwise be constricted.
✅ Potential Benefits to Sleep and Anxiety
By improving circulation and reducing muscle tightness, the regular use of a massage gun can also have benefits on your sleep and mental health. Reduced tension in your neck and shoulders can help your body relax, while improved circulation is good for your overall health. These factors can impact your sleep and reduce potential stress and anxiety.
When Do You Need a Massage Gun?
Massage guns are most useful before or after workouts. Relaxing your muscles and increasing blood flow can help improve your own workouts, as well as be a benefit to your recovery. Additionally, anytime you feel muscle soreness or stiffness, using the massage gun can be very effective.
Tips From the Champ
Olympic Weightlifting Champion
What to Look For in Massage Guns?
1. Power
One of the first things to pay attention to when researching the best cheap massage guns is the overall power of the device.
While it may be difficult to tell based on the amount of information available, pay attention to the wattage of the device, the pounds of pressure it is capable of outputting, or the number of power levels. This should give you a picture of how strong the device is at applying deep pressure into your muscles and tissue.
2. Speed Options
Another major factor to keep in mind is the number of speed options available. This determines the amount of hits per minute the device is capable of, as well as the number of unique speed options between the lowest and highest amount of hits per minute the massage gun offers.
If you want to vary up the speed of the percussion, make sure to keep in mind the number of options available before purchasing your budget percussion massager.
3. Battery Life
Of the most important features to keep in mind before purchasing is the device’s battery life. While the battery life for massage guns have a wide range, most should be able to provide at least a few hours of continuous use. This can be beneficial for traveling or if you want to keep the massage gun in your gym bag without constantly needing to recharge it.
4. Durability
Durability and longevity can be incredibly important to the long term value of the massage gun. Many massage guns are built with durable materials to better stand up to drops or heavy usage over time. So, before you immediately buy the cheapest massage gun you can find, keep in mind the potential long-term value of a more durable model.
5. Noise Level
Because massage guns are percussion devices, many can be incredibly loud when used at the highest speed or power settings. Several massage guns are designed to keep the noise levels low even at higher speed levels. Pay attention to the highest and lowest decibel levels of the device before you buy.
6. Price/Quality
When it comes to affordable massage guns, price and quality are two of the most important factors to keep in mind. There are a number of great options below 100 dollars, and choosing an option of higher quality that performs well while still being affordable is possible.
How to Use Massage Guns?
1. Point the Gun Directly Down on Your Skin
One of the easiest mistakes to make when you are first using a massage gun is to use it at an angle. A massage gun is most effective when the percussion is facing directly down into your muscles.
2. Don’t Overuse Your Massage Gun
When it comes to using your massage gun, a lot will go a long way. You don’t need to spend more than a few minutes using the massage gun at a time. The percussion mechanism will provide more than enough over this period of time.
3. Make Use of the Additional Massage Head Attachments
Many of the additional massage head attachments are designed to target and focus on specific parts of your body. Make sure to switch out the attachments to fit your current focus area to get the most out of your massage gun.
What’s the Difference Between a Massage Gun and a Massager?
FAQ
Is it worth getting a massage gun?
If you suffer from any kind of aches or pains in your muscles, a massage gun is a great and efficient way to help treat it. In short, the benefits of a massage gun are well worth the price, especially considering the number of quality options at affordable prices.
What is better than a massage gun?
There are a number of effective methods to reduce pain and improve muscle recovery. However, outside a real massage, there are few options that are proven to be outright superior to using a massage gun.
How much should I spend on a massage gun?
How much you choose to budget for a massage gun is up to you, considering the price range for one can be anywhere from just $30 all the way up to devices costing hundreds. Ultimately, you can find an inexpensive massage gun that is still high quality.
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best budget massage gun, there are several factors to keep in mind before you make your purchase. However, one of the best choices for you might be the Cholas Massage Gun.
Massage guns can be incredibly beneficial to your muscle recovery and circulation, so making the right decision for your needs is important. If you have any questions or thoughts about massage guns, make sure to comment below!
References:
- How Effective Is a Massage Gun for Recovery? // Very Well Fit: https://www.verywellfit.com/do-massage-guns-really-work-5114083
- 5 Things you should know about massage guns // Muscle and Fitness: https://www.muscleandfitness.com/features/feature-gear/5-things-you-should-know-about-massage-guns/
- Should I Use A Massage Gun Before Or After a Workout? // Pulse Roll: https://pulseroll.com/blogs/blog/massage-gun-before-or-after-workout
- All Photos made by Torokhtiy Media Team.
Why Trust Us?
- Author
- Reviewer
Experience: 26 years
Best Results: Snatch - 208 kg,
C&J - 240 kg
My name is Ihor and I have been a professional weightlifter since 1996. With over 20 years of competition experience, my resume includes European Champion in 2009 and the silver medalist at 2011's Senior World Championships – 105kg division.
I competed at the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Summer Olympics.
After hanging up my own competitive lifting shoes, I decided to share my huge background as a coach. I am currently coaching multiple athletes who are competing at national and international competitions.
If you have any questions/suggestions/any other inquiry, you can reach out to us via email - reviews@torokhtiy.com
Experience: 21 years
Best Results: Snatch – 200 kg,
C&J - 240 kg
My name is Oleksiy Torokhtiy. I am a professional athlete with 20 years of experience in Olympic weightlifting. I have won multiple European, and World titles and have taken part in two Olympic Games (Beijing 2008, London 2012).
After finishing my career, I have committed myself to coach, and as of 2022, I’ve hosted 200+ weightlifting seminars all over the globe. I’m the founder of an international sportswear and accessories brand, Warm Body Cold Mind (my motto), author, and creator of a series of training programs and eBooks.
If you have any questions/suggestions/any other inquiry, you can reach out to us via email - reviews@torokhtiy.com
This article was written by our qualified author and proofread by an expert with proven experience. When writing the article we've used our expertise and data from authoritative, scientific, and evidence-based sources. The list of references is provided at the end of the article.
Our team of authors and experts includes professional athletes (Olympians, winners of European and World titles), PhDs in Sports Science, certified coaches, sports nutritionists, CSCSs, physiotherapists, and others. Read more about the team here, and more about how we test here.
Torokhtiy Team
Hi @Santoro!
Cheap massage guns can be hit or miss when it comes to quality and effectiveness. While some may offer decent performance, many tend to lack durability and reliable features. Cheap models often have weaker motors, limited speed settings, and shorter battery life. The build quality might be subpar, resulting in less precise and comfortable massages. If you’re seeking a long-term solution or professional-grade experience, investing in a higher-quality massage gun is recommended.
Santoro
Are cheap massage guns any good?