Best massage guns to suit every budget

Whether you have sore, tight muscles after exercise that need a little TLC, or you’re in need of some deep-tissue relief similar to a body massage, then finding the best massage guns can help. They’re a natural way to relieve tight muscles, increase blood flow and help regular gym-goers with DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness). There are two different ways that massage guns do this: using either percussion therapy or vibration therapy.

Unlike a back massager, which specifically targets just one area of your body or a foam roller which requires quite a bit of manoeuvring, a massage gun is easy to use and can be used across the entire body. It's also a very compact bit of equipment too, with many massage guns coming with travel cases. Plus, a lot of designs are small enough to fit inside your gym bag. A scalp massager will fit nearly in your bag. On the other hand, a massage chair certainly wouldn't.

Last chance Black Friday deals on massage guns

We interrupt the regularly scheduled content to let you know that although Black Friday is over, there are still plenty of discounts to take advantage of, including a whole host of Black Friday deals on massage guns. Want to grab a bargain? These are the retailers that still have the best deals live, or keep scrolling to continue reading our buyer’s guide.

• 50% off: Alivio Massage Therapy Gun, WAS £199.99, NOW £34.99 - View offer on Debenhams
• 49% off: Livivo 5 in 1 Handheld Hot and Cold Massage Gun, WAS £69.99, NOW £35.99 - View offer on Debenhams
• 22% off: Cordless Massage Gun, WAS £50, NOW £39 - View offer on Debenhams
• 20% off: Lola Massage Gun Black, WAS £79.95, NOW £63.96 - View offer on Debenhams

Massage guns range in price too, with cheaper models starting at around £40, while more expensive designs can range up to £150 plus. As well as carrying out extensive research into the best massage guns currently on the market, a number of our team here at Yours have also put a few to the test to see just how well they function and if they’re really worth the buck. They'll pair perfectly with some soothing and nourishing massage oil, too.

Best massage guns at a glance:

• Best lightweight massage gun: Hyperice, Hypervolt Go Massage Gun 2 - View on Amazon UK
• Best portable massage gun: Theragun mini - View on Therabody
• Best original massage gun: Theragun Elite - View on Therabody

We have found 16 different massage guns to suit every budget. Whether you're happy to splurge on the best sports massage guns or hoping to count the pennies with a cheap massage gun, we've got you covered.

Best massage guns to buy this year

Best massage guns FAQs

How do I choose a massage gun?

It's been 14 years since the Theragun was born, and the massage gun market has boomed; there are hundreds (maybe even thousands) of options available. Although this equipment is still predominately used by athletes, additional people around the world are using this tool to improve muscular pain when suffering from Rheumatoid arthritis, speed up rehabilitation and get a deep tissue massage.

Whatever your reason for wanting to buy a massage gun, you need to understand what you want this machine to do as well as set yourself a price range - as these devices can end up costing hundreds of pounds. If you need one to combat serious aches and pains, you’ll want to allow yourself a bigger budget. Also think about the noise, quality of the product and the speeds. If it's your back that needs help, we recommend a back massager.

Love a deep tissue massage - but need something more thorough? Read our tried and tested review of the Donnerberg Premium Neck and Shoulder Massager, which we were very impressed with.

How do massage guns work?

The best massage guns use attachment heads to apply pressure to target areas by using vibration or percussive therapy. Percussion massage is when speedy, short pulses from your massage gun hit into the soft tissue on your body. Not only does this help increase the blood flow in the areas you're targeting, but it encourages growth and repairs damaged muscles too. Whereas vibration therapy uses vibrations to make your muscles contract and relax. As well as these benefits, it also increases bone density, reduces joint pain and boosts metabolism.

Are massage guns worth it?

Yes, if you purchase a decent massage gun and buy one for your requirements. For example, if you're an athlete, there are massage guns on our list that have been designed by chiropractors for performance and recovery. Whereas, if you're just looking for a massager that will help you relax after a long day, a cheaper model can cut it.

It’s also important to use it correctly. A lot of people will whizz a massage gun over their body and wonder why they’re not feeling any benefits from it. Move the massage gun slowly along your muscles and take your time spending around one to two minutes on a particular muscle. If you come across an area that feels uncomfortable, then spend a little more time there. But, don’t push down with the massage gun.

Most brands will also allow you to return the device if you find it isn’t right for you either. So, this takes a little of the pressure off if you do make an expensive purchase and find it isn’t for you.

Are cheap massage guns any good?

As mentioned above, cheap massage guns can still be a good investment, depending on what you’re using it for. If you’re a hardcore gym-goer, you’re better off investing in a more expensive gun as the technology. After all, the pressure it will offer will be better. But if you’re just looking to relax your muscles, then a cheaper model will do. If you do want a massager to last for years to come, it's worth splashing out on an expensive model. These devices will usually come with a bigger warranty and will be more cost-effective in the long run.

Ellen Kinsey is a senior health and wellness product writer for Yours, specialising in natural health and beauty. She lives and breathes all things food, travel and wellness.