outdoor gear Hypervolt Go vs Theragun Mini Portable Massage Guns (2023)
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Hypervolt Go vs Theragun Mini: Portable Massage Guns (2023)

Massage guns offer awesome relief from chronic pain and help to speed recovery between workouts, but most massage guns are too big, clunky, and heavy to take to the office or on an airplane. We compare Theragun Mini vs Hypervolt Go to determine if these portable devices are viable alternatives.

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See our high-level takeaways below, or skip to our full review!

Our Take:
Theragun Logo
Theragun Product Image
4.8

thumb_upPROS


thumb_downCONS

  • check Ergonomic handle design
  • close Louder than some competitor devices
  • check Premium materials
  • check Therabody app provides suggested routines
  • check Bluetooth connected app
  • check Multiple price points
  • check Deep-kneading massage
The Bottom Line:Theragun by Therabody is the original massage gun that sets the standard for the rest of the industry. The triangular, ergonomic handle helps you get to all of those hard-to-reach areas, and the deep pulse helps drive out tension.
Jump to: Full Review

Hypervolt Logo
Hypervolt Product Image
4.4

thumb_upPROS


thumb_downCONS

  • check Patented QuietGlide technology
  • close No ergonomic handle
  • check Industry leading percussions per minute
  • close Some find the massage isn't as deep as competition
  • check TSA approved for carry-on
The Bottom Line: Hypervolt massage guns are known for their quiet operation, but Theragun's patented handle is unparalleled. Hyperice has done a great job of partnering with organizations such as the NBA, but their heightened profile shouldn't be your deciding factor.
Jump to: Full Review





Full Review:
Hypervolt Go Vs Theragun Mini

The Hypervolt Go and the Theragun Mini are portable percussive massagers designed for mobile, on-the-go use. They're great additions to your gym bag, and they also make excellent gifts for casual users and athletes alike. The Hypervolt uses QuietGlide technology while the Therabody product line uses its own QuietForce technology. The

Theragun Mini offers three different speed settings, as does the Hypervolt Go. Both products boast 150 minutes of continuous use or roughly two and a half hours per full charge. Visually, the Hypervolt Go looks more like a traditional massage gun whereas the Theragun Mini has a unique handheld design that allows for a different grip on the device.

Hypervolt Go vs Theragun Mini

The Theragun Mini offers a similar massage experience to the Hypervolt Go but has the backing of the Therabody brand and offers more unique add-on attachments to truly customize your massage experience. While either agile massage device would be a smart addition to your first aid kit or gym bag, the Therabody Theragun Mini offers Theragun-quality relief in the palm of your hand and unparalleled portability compared to the more conventionally shaped Hypervolt Go. The compact design makes it a convenient option and uses a new proprietary brushless motor alongside the power of QuietForce technology for nearly silent operation.

And by the way, that triangular design? It's reminiscent of the larger Therabody massage guns, which are designed for advanced ergonomics. The triangular handle makes it easier to grip from almost any position, which is supposed to cause less strain on your wrist. When you don't have a massage therapist around to reach your back, this is a big deal. Still, some prefer the traditional feel of the Hypervolt Go, which is more natural to grip, even if less comfortable for your wrist.

The 150-minute battery life of each device is fine, though you should be prepared for regular recharge sessions if you plan on heavy use. Of course, for most people, two and half hours of battery life will be just fine. You are only supposed to use a massage gun for ten to fifteen minutes at a time anyway. Along with a carrying case or soft case, the Theragun Mini and Hypervolt Go make for easy essentials with smart features.

If you've never used a massage gun or a percussive massage device before, you're not alone. While the massage gun craze is nothing new, it's still a novelty for many people, though plenty of professional athletes and physical therapists swear by their benefits and uses. If you look up massage guns, the price tags on the higher-end models might surprise you. Luckily, there are entry-level massage gun tools like the Hypervolt Go and the Theragun Mini that offer portability and convenience.

While a high-end device like the Theragun Pro might be something a physical therapist might recommend, you can still get an enjoyable massage and enough pressure from both the Theragun Mini and the Hypervolt Go. Using a massage gun can help improve blood flow, reduce the soreness that can negatively impact your day, and achieve more productive exercising. Conversely, if you are looking for a heavy-duty option that offers top-of-the-line features, the Theragun Pro is the top choice. For starters, the Theragun Pro offers adjustable arms and movement options that mobile models don't. However, this also comes with the caveat of a higher price tag.

The Theragun Mini and Hypervolt Go come with limited massage heads, though they're both intuitive enough for different attachments and percussion. You can easily adjust the vibration settings and customize your unique massage experience. The Therabody and Hyperice Hypervolt Go are mobile and easy to charge up, but you want to ensure you have adapters on hand. You can always add more to your accessories kit as you go, but it's worth mentioning that the entry-level costs mean you also get some entry-level limitations. However, when you want something portable and effective that can easily fit in your luggage or first aid kit, the Mini and Go editions are excellent choices, though users regularly highlight the Mini more frequently.

Hypervolt Go vs Theragun Mini

Therabody Or Hyperice? Which Is Better?

In comparing Theragun vs Hypervolt, the big differences are the noise level (Hypervolt is quieter), the stroke depth (Theragun kneads deeper), and the ergonomic handle (Theragun's triangular handle is better for your wrist). On the Theragun Pro model, the adjustable arm is also a major selling point, but for portable handheld massage guns, noise, stroke depth, and ergonomic design will be the big differences.

If you want to create a complete workout kit that cares for your body long after you've left the gym, you've probably considered a massage gun before. What's good is that Therabody and Hyperice offer products with different current speed adjustments, pressure levels, and attachment heads for your recovery and comfort needs. The Theragun Pro and Hypervolt Plus can help you cool down after a workout, targeting hamstrings, glutes, forearms, or another area. Percussion helps you tackle knots in your muscles with as many pounds of force as you need to thrive and feel better. While both massage guns are popular, many professional athletes and massage therapists use Theragun products in their day-to-day lives.

Several Theragunand Hypervolt models, like the Theragun Mini and Hypervolt Go, are designed for greater portability. The Theragun Pro, of course, is on the higher end as far as a percussive massage gun is considered. The Hyperice product is still on the pricier end, though with sales and discounts, both massage guns have comparable purchase prices. Both massage tools have access to connected apps, though the reviews for the two vary. While some users note that the Therabody app has connectivity issues, the Hyperice app has lower scores in several app stores.

One thing worth clarifying is that while Hyperice products have traditionally had higher percussions per minute, the Therabody products have traditionally had a longer stroke, which is one reason they have had lower strokes per minute. This is notable because will see knock-off brands boasting about these incredibly fast percussions per minute on Amazon, but often these percussion devices just vibrate the surface. The Therabody devices are designed with a longer stroke to knead deeply into sore muscles, loosen them up and release lactic acid. So, in comparing Hypervolt Go vs Theragun Mini, the amplitude is worth considering.


What Does a Portable Massage Gun Do?

Portable massage guns are excellent options for those with chronic pain or looking to speed recovery between workouts. Percussion therapy utilizes a massage gun to deliver pulses into the soft tissue, which may alleviate pain.

You don't have to be a professional athlete to benefit from a premium product like Theragun Mini or Hypervolt Go. These are powerful devices, but they are available at reasonable price points. So, no, you don't have to be a professional athlete to own a portable massage gun, and you don't need to break the bank either.

When you're in the market for a percussive massage gun, these two brands offer excellent choices, but you should look beyond the clear design differences at your ideal use cases. For instance, think about your own needs: Do you primarily deal with soreness in your muscle groups? Are you struggling with aches and pains after a long day? Do you have difficulty relaxing due to stiffness in your joints and muscles? The Theragun Mini or Hypervolt Go smart percussive therapy devices are the ideal solutions for casual users who want on-the-go convenience, ease of use, and portability.

The Mini and Go devices can help you recover after exercise, though there are extensive differences between the two models. For example, the Mini uses a unique shape that not everyone will take to, while the Hypervolt Go uses a conventional shape but has some speed and pressure issues. When you need a mobile massage solution that you can enjoy on the go, it's worth considering both the Mini and Go devices.

With three different massage speeds, the Theragun Mini and Hypervolt Go each offer a smaller window of adjustments compared to some higher-end items. However, these smaller tools are also ideal for a first aid kit or a gym bag so you can take them on the go. While neither device is a bad investment, the Therabody brand wins in terms of overall customer satisfaction, user reviews, and device quality, longevity, and effectiveness. For a pre-workout warmup, a cool-down period to promote blood flow, or an at-home routine after a long day, a percussive massage device can help. Theragun Mini and Hypervolt Go models of their respective brands provide enough feature richness to make them worthy accessories and must-haves for on-the-go fitness enthusiasts.

Theragun Mini vs Hypervolt Go

Theragun Mini vs Hypervolt Go: First Impressions

For those struggling with chronic pain and sore muscles, it is often recommended to use percussion massage guns two or three times a day, but this doesn't always feel realistic. The larger and more expensive massage guns may have more features, but they are heavier and clunkier, so you may not want to take a full-sized Hypervolt into the office.

Portable massage guns solve this problem. And while they are also cheaper than a full-sized massage gun from the same brands, they aren't designed as budget massage guns. Instead, they are designed for portability. Of course, if you go with a mobile option, you can still get an intense massage.

If you want the best recovery after a workout or you're interested in a massage tool that can help you get a better deep tissue massage than your average massagers can provide, you've likely looked into the Theragun range of products. The Theragun range includes the professional-grade Theragun Pro, made by Therabody. Similarly, the Hypervolt Plus is a Hyperice product. The Pro and Plus are powerful percussion massagers, though each lies in a higher price range. Many reviews call the Pro the best massage gun out of the Theragun products, and consumers have similar feelings about the Hypervolt Plus.

Still, for a quiet device that comes in a smaller form, portable massage gun models are the way to go. Plus, you can still use all of the same massage head attachments.


What Are Customers Saying About These Portable Massage Guns?

Comparatively, both the Theragun Mini and the Hypervolt Go review blurbs focus on primarily positive customer feedback, though Theragun Pro reviews are generally on the higher end compared to the Hypervolt Go. Also, the Hyperice site doesn't make it as easy to find reviews for specific products like the Go model, which is frustrating in terms of the overall user experience and functionality. Many users enjoyed the benefits for hips, muscles, and aches and agreed that the price tag is at the right spot to make this model feel like an amazing value.

For Hypervolt Go, one user specifically wrote about the massage intensity being too much for them, even on the lower settings. They noted that the Hypervolt Go was a great value but caused too much discomfort to make it easy for them to recommend. Another user highlighted the same concerns in their Amazon review, though these negative comments aren't too extensive. Still, it raises general concerns over how frequently this issue happens.

On the Therabody website, verified buyer Kapena wrote that they loved their Theragun Mini and said they bought this second, smaller massager to accompany their Theragun Pro. That way, both Kapena and their wife could use the Theragun products at the same time to target different muscles. Theragun seems to have a high level of brand loyalty, which is a good sign for prospective buyers.

Samridh specifically mentioned how they enjoyed the Theragun Mini for their pre- and post-workout routines. They also said that the Theragun Mini has a positive impact on their life. Many users echo similar sentiments that make it clear that the Therabody brand excels at quality control and consistency. With so many positive reviews for both brands, you truly have to split hairs, but it's apparent that the Theragun Mini edges out the Hypervolt Go in terms of digital engagement and customer satisfaction.

Theragun vs Hyperice Hypervolt Go

Theragun Mini & Hypervolt Go Alternatives

While the Theragun Mini and Hypervolt Go are the best portable massage guns on the market, you may find that you actually need something other than a portable massage gun. Still, we understand that you may not want to break the bank for the professional-grade Theragun Pro. If you are looking for a portable alternative, some reviews might recommend an Ekrin Athletics massage gun, but we recommend you stick with the Therabody family and consider the Theragun Prime. In comparing the Theragun Prime vs Elite, you will note that the Prime is more affordable than the Elite or the Theragun Pro model, but slightly more expensive than the portable Mini.

Theragun Mini vs Theragun Prime

All of the massage gun options in the Therabody lineup have an ergonomic handle design, but the handle on the Theragun Mini definitely stands out as different from the rest. The Theragun Mini still features a triangular handle intended to make it comfortable to massage all over without hurting your wrist, but the smaller, filled-in form isn't quite as easy to grasp onto if you are trying to get a good massage on your back.

Now, if your problem area is in the chest, arms, or legs, then you might be able to reach just fine with the Mini, but if you have common aches and pains in the upper or lower back, then the Theragun Prime handle may be easier to grip. Theragun's found pioneered the massage gun industry, and then changed it again with the introduction of the signature triangular handle.

The Theragun Mini features 3-speed settings that have been scientifically calibrated, a QX35 Motor with QuietForce technology, and 2 and half hours of total battery life. The Mini also weighs less than 1.5 lbs, and for reference, the top speed reaches 2400 percussions per minute.

Comparatively, the Theragun Prime doesn't feature all of the bells and whistles featured on the Theragun Elite, but it still punches above its weight class. The Prime features the more powerful QX65 motor with QuietForce technology, but only has 2 hours of battery life. Since it is more advanced than the Theragun Mini, it connects to the associated app and has 5 built-in speeds, plus customizable speeds reaching as high as 2400 percussions per minute.

Another big difference is the Theragun Prime has 16 mm amplitude, meaning it kneads deeper than the 12 mm amplitude reached by the Theragun Mini. So while they have the same max speed, the Theragun Prime has customizable settings and massages deeper than the Mini. In exchange for the more profound massage and more traditional handle, the Prime weighs 2.2 lbs.

Hypervolt Go vs Theragun Prime

So, we covered Theragun Prime specifications in comparison to the Theragun Mini, but how do the specifications compare to the Hypervolt Go? The Hypervolt Go weighs 1.5 lbs, which is just a hair heavier than the Mini, but still substantially lighter than the Prime.

The Hypervolt Go's other specifications are nearly identical to the Theragun Mini. The Hypervolt Go features 3 speeds and 150 minutes of battery life. Hyperice doesn't advertise the amplitude for their massage guns, but it is generally understood that the Therabody percussion devices have higher amplitude and provide a deeper massage. This is why you will notice Hyperice and other alternatives so heavily advertise speed without referencing amplitude.

The Theragun Prime's built-in battery is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, similar to the Hyperice device. Neither features a removable battery. In the past, the big advantage for Hyperice has been that their devices operate more quietly, but Therabody's QuietForce technology largely negates this edge. By the way, how well does that QX65 motor with QuietForce technology work? Well, the Theragun Prime is 70% quieter than the 3rd generation Theragun and is quieter than an electric toothbrush.

So with all of this understood, what is the best use case for the Hypervolt Go? Well, the Hypervolt Go offers a more traditional grip, which some may prefer, while still coming in a more compact design that weighs less than the Prime and other alternatives. If you want a portable percussion device that really looks like a massage gun, while still being TSA approved, the Hypervolt Go may be the best option for you.

Therabody vs Hyperice Hypervolt Go

Is Theragun Mini Or Hypervolt Go Worth It?

Before you buy a device that can help you overcome muscle tension and stiffness, you want to get the best value for the expense, especially if you're buying a percussive massager for the first time. The Theragun Mini and Hypervolt Go offer plenty of new features, portability, and enough battery life for effective massage settings. In some ways, it's the next best thing to a professional massage therapy treatment. There's also the Theragun Pro, a higher-end massager.

The Theragun Pro offers different head attachments and different speeds so you can get the ideal massage experience for the sore parts of your body. Target specific areas with a cone attachment or hit your sore spots with a Theragun Pro standard ball attachment. While the Hypervolt Go offers features similar to the Theragun line, there's a reason that serious athletes and deep muscle treatment pros recommend Theragun products like the Pro and Mini.

Plus, even though there's limited battery life, portability is key here. Though you might not be able to get long-use sessions out of your different massage attachments, you can still enjoy up to 150 minutes on each device after a full charge. This can be a game-changer when you're on the go, at the gym, or trying to unwind after a long day at the office. This makes both the Hypervolt Go and the Theragun Mini more than just good massage guns but the top choices for mobile massage gun devices.

The Theragun Mini percussion device offers enough additional power and customizability to make it a standout, though this doesn't make the Hypervolt Go a bad product. The Mini's QuietForce technology keeps the device nearly silent, and the QuietGlide tech of the Hypervolt Go aims to do the same but doesn't always match up. Take a look at the differences between the Theragun Mini and the Hypervolt Go; it's easy to see how the Mini comes out on top with a more intuitive massage experience.

We love that this mini-massage gun has a unique design that doesn't sacrifice functionality or utility. The Theragun Mini offers a different experience than the Hypervolt Go and makes it a clearer choice.


Is Theragun Mini Strong Enough?

The Mini isn't as powerful as the full-sized Theraguns, but it still reaches top speeds similar to the Prime. The other models all offer a deeper massage, but the Mini is sufficient for quick relief. This is particularly true for smaller muscle groups. If you need a deep-kneading massage, the Mini may not be strong enough, but for most people, it will work just fine.

Is Hypervolt Go Strong Enough?

The Hyperice portable device falls into much the same category. If you want a massage gun to take to the gym to activate your muscles pre-workout and help work through lactic acid post-workout, then the Go will get the job done. Similarly, if you need a compact device to use in the office or while you are traveling, it will work for that, too. Still, there is a reason some people choose to have one of the full-sized models and a compact and portable device. It gets the job done, but isn't quite as powerful as the other alternatives.

Theragun vs Hypervolt
Comparison Table
Best Massage Guns Reviewed
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Hypervolt Logo
PriceaddTheragun💲💲💲Hypervolt💲💲💲
Biggest Selling PointaddTheragunDeep massaging powerHypervoltQuiet operation
Different Price PointsaddTheragunFourHypervoltThree
Ergonomic-Focused DesignaddTheragunHypervolt
Professional PartnershipsaddTheragunHypervolt
WebsiteaddTheragunHypervolt

Do These Percussion Devices Deserve A Spot In Your Gym Bag?

When you're trying to develop your own recovery routine, you want to pick the right massage gun. Between the Hyperice Hypervolt and the Theragun, many customers prefer the percussion, accessories, and smaller size of the Theragun Mini. Its simplicity and whisper-quiet operation mean you can take this lightweight mini-massage gun with you in your backpack as you roam or use it in the comfort of your home.

Although there are plenty of knockoffs on the market, you're better off going with a known brand, even when you're looking for an affordable percussion massage device that can maintain treatment quality over a single charge. Due to the limited charge time of each, you might want to keep a power adapter or charger handy for a deeper massage or greater therapeutic benefits in the long run. Similarly, each device would make the perfect gift for a holiday or birthday, especially alongside interchangeable head attachments.

A mini-massage gun like the Hyperice Hypervolt Go or the Theragun Mini is a natural addition to any muscle health and wellness regimen. You can easily interact with each mini-massage gun at a moment's notice, and even the lowest setting on each provides a decent massage. There's no real noise issue with the two devices, though the Hyperice mini-massage gun has more users that report sound levels occasionally being a concern.

For your calves, lower back, hamstrings, and other parts of your body, the Theragun Mini and Hypervolt Go are both maneuverable enough to reach. The devices can help you increase your range of motion and get harder-to-reach spots, though both devices miss out on the mobile arm adjustments of their Pro and Plus counterparts. While the Hypervolt Go doesn't offer the QuietForce technology that makes the Therabody brand so popular when paired with the deeper amplitude, it offers its own QuietGlide technology for less noise and distraction.

Will These Percussion Massagers Help With Pain And Discomfort?

Stiffness, soreness, and general daily pain impact millions worldwide. Even when you're following injury prevention best practices, you still run the occasional risk of pushing yourself too hard. When you're in a position where you have to navigate pain, stiffness, or soreness, it can negatively impact your quality of living. However, before you bust out your wallet, it's always worth mentioning more about how effective each device is.

While the Therabody brand relies on brushless high-torque movement, the original Hypervolt Go uses its own QuietGlide tech. The new Hypervolt Go is also equally quiet and has surprising power, which is helpful for tackling stubborn knots or pains. From cyclists and runners to working professionals, everyone could benefit from the build quality and percussive therapy of the Mini or Go editions.

Comparatively, the Theragun Pro and Hypervolt Plus are more expensive models that come with extra features and speed gears, along with a wider range of percussion and some extra head attachments. They're definitely more involved devices, though the Pro is particularly user-friendly and intuitive. Both Therabody and Hyperice offer different models and budget brands for any buyer, no matter their needs.

You can use the diverse speed gears and percussion range to target quads, glutes, lower back, and sensitive areas that are commonly afflicted by pain. It's important to note that Hyperice makes it a little harder to find a quality Hypervolt Go review or user opinions on the site. Instead, you often have to visit third-party sellers or authorized retail sites to see what customers have to say. In contrast, Therabody makes it easier to look at reviews for top gift picks and get expert advice on your device selection.

Though the list price might seem like it's on the higher side for an entry-level massager, Therabody and Hyperice each regularly run promotions and Cyber Week deals so you can save on top gift picks and start enjoying percussive therapy sooner than later.

Which Portable Handheld Massager Is Best?

So which one for you choose? In this case, the two primary options are relatively comparable and offer similar functionality. Surprisingly, in comparing Hypervolt Go vs Theragun Mini, it may come down to grip. If you have sensitive wrists and appreciate the ergonomic handle that makes it easier to use the massage gun in awkward positions, then choose the

Theragun Mini. On the other handle, if you want a device with a more traditional handle that you can really grip down on, then choose the Hypervolt Go.


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