If you came here wanting a simple answer of which one is better, I’m afraid this isn’t the guide for you. There isn’t a “better” when it comes to Hypervolt or Theragun and anyone who says one is “better” isn’t being fair to either brand. Here’s why. They’re essentially two different products. Apples and oranges. Understanding the differences should help you decide which one is the one for you.
While both the Hypervolt and the Theragun are considered massage guns, they fall under two different categories of massage guns that provide two distinct experiences.
Hypervolt falls under the category of a “vibration” type massage device while the Theragun is a “percussion” type massage device.
Vibration type massage devices are high frequency, low amplitude applications for localized regions meaning that the massage head travels a short distance between the muscle and the gun at a high rate. This results in localized muscle relaxation and increased blood flow to the area and helps reduce soreness by removing lactic acid built up in sore muscles. The Hypervolt is an excellent vibration type massager at 2000-32000 strokes per minute.
On the other hand, Percussive type massagers apply lower frequency and higher amplitude applications for a much more aggressive and “punchier” application. The Theragun starts at 1740 strokes per minute and caps out at 2400. As a result, the massage head penetrates the muscle fibers deeper than a vibration type massager resulting in potential musculoskeletal changes and range of motion improvements.
TECH SPECS:
Stroke Length: Theragun=16mm/Hypervolt=10mm
Strokes per Minute: Theragun=1740-2400 per minute/Hypervolt=2000-3200 per minute
Stall Force: Theragun=30 pounds/Hypervolt=30 pounds
STALL FORCE:
Both guns can stall if you put quite a bit of force on them. Theragun claims it can withstand 60 pounds of force which is probably an overestimation. The Theragun and the Hypervolt seem to stall at similar pressures though I have never done any objective tests with a pressure meter or weights.
PORTABILITY:
The Hypervolt is extremely lightweight, at just 2.5 pounds, which makes it easy to use and easy to travel with. The Theragun is not much heavier, 2.9 pounds which makes it just as easy to transport.
NOISE:
The Hypervolt is quieter than the Theragun. Although it won’t deafen you, the Theragun’s noise is around 75 decibels, which is enough to be annoying if it’s prolonged.
The Hypervolt is about 60 decibels in its highest setting. It feels more like a fine-tuned machine that hums and soothes.
ERGONOMICS:
The handle of the Theragun is a big winner in the ergonomics department. The triangle shape of the handle gives you multiple angles to attack an area and provides a variety of ways to get significant leverage, particularly around the neck and shoulders. The Hypervolt features a simple vertical handle. It’s still comfortable and easy to hold but might become more difficult when trying to massage areas that you can’t reach easily like the neck and shoulders. The Theragun may be easier to use on yourself for any muscle ache, whereas the Hypervolt might need someone else to help you out if you need to massage certain areas. The handle circumference on the Hypervolt is also on the larger side for those with smaller hands.
CONCLUSION: IT DEPENDS…
Hypervolt: A Luxurious Spa Treatment
If you’re looking for a more elegant, quiet, and luxurious massager, then the Hypervolt may be the device for you. The battery life is above average, the device is quiet for a variety of situations, and the vibration frequency is quite high for a vibration-type massage.
Theragun: A Rigorous Therapeutic Treatment
If you’re looking for a dedicated therapy session with a powerful and effective device for serious stiffness and range of motion deficits, then the Theragun maybe your preferred device. At the cost of convenience and sound, the ergonomic handle combined with the robust 16 mm strike amplitude allows you to penetrate the muscle belly and have a real lasting therapeutic effect with increased range of motion and reduced long-term pain.
In my opinion…
If you’re looking for a serious therapy tool for your home or clinic and have time and space for it, the Theragun is the way to go.
If you’re looking for a vibration massage for everyday relaxation, then the Hypervolt is your massage gun of choice.
Footnote: the massage guns reviewed for this article were Hyperice’s Flagship Hypervolt ($299) and Therabody’s Theragun Prime ($299).
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