I'm pretty sure every person on this planet could use a massage right now. But until we're all vaccinated and it's safe to see a massage therapist, the next best thing is a massage gun. The question is, do you really need to spend hundreds of dollars to get a good one?
I put my muscles on the line to find out. (It's a tough job, but someone had to do it.) I started with the most affordable models from premium brands Hyperice and Therabody, then worked my way down to the most inexpensive off-brand massagers I could find. (Not represented here are the super-sale deals that come along every few weeks, like this model for $29. They sell out quickly, so follow The Cheapskate to make sure you catch the next one. Scroll to the bottom to learn how.)
Read more: The best online therapy for 2021
These things come in all shapes and sizes, from full-size guns that look like hair dryers to mini ones that look incapable of generating much massaging power. (Trust me, they're capable.) One model has an odd, triangular body; another incorporates two heads. In the end, I tried to get a good sampling of what's out there, with an eye toward products priced $100 or less.
Indeed, this is the "value" end of the massage-gun category. And some of the prices shown here may actually end up lower thanks to codes and coupons that come and go.
If you want to learn more about percussive massagers in general, read CNET's roundup of the best massage guns for 2021 and scroll to the bottom for some insight into their features and functions.
Rick Broida/CNET
You know the old saying: Two heads are better than one. But is that true of massage guns? I thought Fishda's Frankenstein was just a gimmick, but damn if it doesn't deliver twice the muscle-punching goodness. For big areas like thighs and glutes, I genuinely enjoyed this "bigger" massage.
Fortunately, it's not twice as loud as other guns; in fact, it's surprisingly quiet. It also has a relatively compact form-factor, basically a taller version of the Recoverfun Mini. But there's some heft to it: At 1.7 pounds it weighs more than any other gun in its size class. Expect arm fatigue to set in a bit sooner with this one.
At $150 it's also on the expensive side relative to other models, though that's to be expected given the dual heads. However, for a limited time, promo code 50M25UQP drops it to just $75.
CNET Cheapskate
Get all the latest deals delivered to your inbox. It's FREE!
Rick Broida/CNET
Like Therabody, Hyperice is a premium brand with prices to match. And speaking of matching, the Hypervolt Go sells for $199, same as the Theragun Mini (reviewed below). But I like the former more, in part because it comes with two heads instead of one and has a more comfortable gun-style design.
It's smaller than the likes of the MaxKare and Taotronics models, but also larger than the Naipo and Recoverfun. So let's call it "medium."
But, wow, is it powerful -- on par with the Theragun in terms of muscle-punching force. With only three speeds, however, it might prove a little much if you prefer a light touch. Hyperice doesn't supply a travel case, which is inconvenient, and the AC adapter is proprietary.
Between this and the Theragun Mini, I'd choose this. But there are less-expensive models that are also more versatile, so it's not my top pick.
Rick Broida/CNET
Naipo's massager is the lightest and most compact model in the group, with a small but comfortable grip and more percussive force than you'd expect.
Other pluses include five speed settings and four different massage heads. Naipo doesn't provide a carrying case, which is a bit disappointing. But my only real complaint is that it's on the noisy side, at least compared with the other "minis" in the roundup, the Recoverfun and Sportneer.
At this writing, Amazon seller Twakie US was offering an on-page coupon for $30 off, bringing the price down to an appealing $60. I've seen various other coupon or code deals as well, so you should definitely get this when it's on sale.
Rick Broida/CNET
Available in three colors (including a rather dazzling red), the Recoverfun Mini is among my favorite massagers in the group. Although it's heavier than Naipo's similarly compact model, with a metal barrel that feels a little cold until it warms up, it's also surprisingly quiet. (When you're trying to relax, extra noise doesn't help.)
The gun offers four speed settings and Recoverfun supplies the "big four" attachments: ball, bullet, fork and flat. The flat one is made of aluminum, which offers no clear advantage I can see but definitely looks cool. You also get a drawstring carrying case, though you'll have to supply your own powered USB port for the USB-C charging cable.
Rick Broida/CNET
The Sportneer Mini 3 closely resembles Recoverfun's gun, but it's ever-so-slightly "mini-er." It's just a hair shorter and lighter, but also just a bit louder (not enough to be distracting, though). It has a basic LED display as well, one that shows speed, battery level and runtime -- superfluous information, yes, but welcome all the same.
The Mini 3 has two tricks up its sleeve. First, in addition to the four standard speed levels, it offers an "AI" mode: A light touch results in a slower speed, but the harder you press, the higher the intensity. This works surprisingly well and consequently I found myself reaching for this gun more often than the others.
You can also unscrew the barrel of the handle to add up to about 1.6 extra inches. That's kind of nice as well, because a lot of minis (including the Recoverfun) are a tad short in the grip, particularly for larger hands.
I'm glad Sportneer included a zippered carrying case, but sad that it has room for only two of the four massage heads. The USB-C cord is also quite short. Those issues aside, this is one mini you should definitely consider.
Rick Broida/CNET
As big, hair dryer-style massage guns go, the TaoTronics offers a lot to like. It's reasonably light for its size, plus it's smaller and quieter than MaxKare's similarly designed model. The metallic green coloring adds a nice bit of flair and I liked the partially squared grip.
TaoTronics provides six interchangeable heads and everything fits nicely in the included zippered case -- though the latter is actually a bit larger than MaxKare's. Traveling with this would require sacrificing a sizable chunk of suitcase.
The big standout feature here is the speed control, which has settings that range from 1 to 20. Nearly every other massager here gives you maybe four or five. How many speeds does a person really need? I don't know, but this massage gun is also notable for its unparalleled 4.9-star review average from over 2,300 buyers.
The price at this writing: $75 (with coupon), an all-time low and down from the usual $120.
Rick Broida/CNET
Most Theragun massagers -- save for the Mini in this roundup -- have a distinctive design: They're not "gun"-like at all, but rather more like a gas-pump handle.
TechCare's is the only one here that comes close to matching that design. Its big, curved handle affords a wider variety of grip choices, and the massage arm itself can rotate a full 90 degrees, which also expands your positioning options.
However, it's one of the heaviest models in the group, and for self-massage purposes I didn't find much value in the bigger grip or articulating arm. Indeed, I'm not sure I see the value of, say, extending the arm all the way forward. But I did like the super-simple controls and choice of 15 speed levels.
One usability complaint: Although this is the only massager with a removable battery, you have to remove it for charging. On the plus side, you can get spare batteries for $20 each.
If you like the Theragun design, this comes close for a fraction of the price. Overall, however, there are other massagers I like better.
Rick Broida/CNET
Another model with a frequently fluctuating price, the MaxKare is big. In fact, it's the biggest massager in the group. That's not necessarily a bad thing, it just makes it tougher to travel with. To that end, MaxKare provides both a zippered carrying case and a shoulder bag -- the better to transport the six included massage heads.
The controls are a bit confusing at first, because what looks like a power button on the back of the device is the button that toggles between the gun's five different speeds. Power is actually controlled by an on-off switch on the bottom of the handle. Then there's a mode button that switches between "warm up," "relaxation" and "deep tissue" modes -- all of which just make intermittent speed changes while you're massaging.
There's currently a 30%-off coupon on the MaxKare product page; it drops the price down to $63. Prior to that, it was 10% off a lower starting price, but with the same end result. Either way, it's an appealing deal -- but be prepared for a gun with a bit more bulk and weight than most.
David Carnoy/CNET
The triangular Mini exerts an impressive amount of force for its size, but the shape makes it hard to hold comfortably. What's more, Therabody provides only one attachment, a ball head; other models here come with at least two, if not four or even six -- for a lower price.
Even at the lowest of its three speeds, the Mini feels stronger than a lot of the other guns I tried. In fact, anyone looking for just a light, relaxing massage might find it a little too powerful.
Meanwhile, the unit relies on a proprietary AC adapter, not USB-C. That's one more thing to pack on a trip -- and the adapter doesn't even fit in Therabody's snug zippered carrying case.
While I'd be glad to have this on hand for deep-tissue relief, it's hard to recommend otherwise. There are too many other models with more features and lower prices.
Now playing: Watch this: Can't get a professional massage? Get a massage at home...
1:30
CNET's Cheapskate scours the web for great deals on tech products and much more. For the latest deals and updates, follow him on Facebook and Twitter. You can also sign up for deal texts delivered right to your phone. Find more great buys on the CNET Deals page and check out our CNET Coupons page for the latest Walmart discount codes, eBay coupons, Samsung promo codes and even more from hundreds of other online stores. Questions about the Cheapskate blog? Answers live on our FAQ page.
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.
I put my muscles on the line to find out. (It's a tough job, but someone had to do it.) I started with the most affordable models from premium brands Hyperice and Therabody, then worked my way down to the most inexpensive off-brand massagers I could find. (Not represented here are the super-sale deals that come along every few weeks, like this model for $29. They sell out quickly, so follow The Cheapskate to make sure you catch the next one. Scroll to the bottom to learn how.)
Read more: The best online therapy for 2021
These things come in all shapes and sizes, from full-size guns that look like hair dryers to mini ones that look incapable of generating much massaging power. (Trust me, they're capable.) One model has an odd, triangular body; another incorporates two heads. In the end, I tried to get a good sampling of what's out there, with an eye toward products priced $100 or less.
Indeed, this is the "value" end of the massage-gun category. And some of the prices shown here may actually end up lower thanks to codes and coupons that come and go.
If you want to learn more about percussive massagers in general, read CNET's roundup of the best massage guns for 2021 and scroll to the bottom for some insight into their features and functions.
Rick Broida/CNET
You know the old saying: Two heads are better than one. But is that true of massage guns? I thought Fishda's Frankenstein was just a gimmick, but damn if it doesn't deliver twice the muscle-punching goodness. For big areas like thighs and glutes, I genuinely enjoyed this "bigger" massage.
Fortunately, it's not twice as loud as other guns; in fact, it's surprisingly quiet. It also has a relatively compact form-factor, basically a taller version of the Recoverfun Mini. But there's some heft to it: At 1.7 pounds it weighs more than any other gun in its size class. Expect arm fatigue to set in a bit sooner with this one.
At $150 it's also on the expensive side relative to other models, though that's to be expected given the dual heads. However, for a limited time, promo code 50M25UQP drops it to just $75.
- Weight: 1 pound, 11 ounces
- Charging method: USB-C
- Number of heads included: Four (times two)
- Carrying case included: Drawstring
CNET Cheapskate
Get all the latest deals delivered to your inbox. It's FREE!
Rick Broida/CNET
Like Therabody, Hyperice is a premium brand with prices to match. And speaking of matching, the Hypervolt Go sells for $199, same as the Theragun Mini (reviewed below). But I like the former more, in part because it comes with two heads instead of one and has a more comfortable gun-style design.
It's smaller than the likes of the MaxKare and Taotronics models, but also larger than the Naipo and Recoverfun. So let's call it "medium."
But, wow, is it powerful -- on par with the Theragun in terms of muscle-punching force. With only three speeds, however, it might prove a little much if you prefer a light touch. Hyperice doesn't supply a travel case, which is inconvenient, and the AC adapter is proprietary.
Between this and the Theragun Mini, I'd choose this. But there are less-expensive models that are also more versatile, so it's not my top pick.
- Weight: 1 pound, 7 ounces
- Charging method: Proprietary
- Number of heads included: Two
- Carrying case included: Drawstring
Rick Broida/CNET
Naipo's massager is the lightest and most compact model in the group, with a small but comfortable grip and more percussive force than you'd expect.
Other pluses include five speed settings and four different massage heads. Naipo doesn't provide a carrying case, which is a bit disappointing. But my only real complaint is that it's on the noisy side, at least compared with the other "minis" in the roundup, the Recoverfun and Sportneer.
At this writing, Amazon seller Twakie US was offering an on-page coupon for $30 off, bringing the price down to an appealing $60. I've seen various other coupon or code deals as well, so you should definitely get this when it's on sale.
- Weight: 14 ounces
- Charging method: USB-C
- Number of heads included: Four
- Carrying case included: No
Rick Broida/CNET
Available in three colors (including a rather dazzling red), the Recoverfun Mini is among my favorite massagers in the group. Although it's heavier than Naipo's similarly compact model, with a metal barrel that feels a little cold until it warms up, it's also surprisingly quiet. (When you're trying to relax, extra noise doesn't help.)
The gun offers four speed settings and Recoverfun supplies the "big four" attachments: ball, bullet, fork and flat. The flat one is made of aluminum, which offers no clear advantage I can see but definitely looks cool. You also get a drawstring carrying case, though you'll have to supply your own powered USB port for the USB-C charging cable.
- Weight: 1 pound, 5 ounces
- Charging method: USB-C
- Number of heads included: Four
- Carrying case included: Drawstring
Rick Broida/CNET
The Sportneer Mini 3 closely resembles Recoverfun's gun, but it's ever-so-slightly "mini-er." It's just a hair shorter and lighter, but also just a bit louder (not enough to be distracting, though). It has a basic LED display as well, one that shows speed, battery level and runtime -- superfluous information, yes, but welcome all the same.
The Mini 3 has two tricks up its sleeve. First, in addition to the four standard speed levels, it offers an "AI" mode: A light touch results in a slower speed, but the harder you press, the higher the intensity. This works surprisingly well and consequently I found myself reaching for this gun more often than the others.
You can also unscrew the barrel of the handle to add up to about 1.6 extra inches. That's kind of nice as well, because a lot of minis (including the Recoverfun) are a tad short in the grip, particularly for larger hands.
I'm glad Sportneer included a zippered carrying case, but sad that it has room for only two of the four massage heads. The USB-C cord is also quite short. Those issues aside, this is one mini you should definitely consider.
- Weight: 1 pound, 3 ounces
- Charging method: USB-C
- Number of heads included: Four
- Carrying case included: Zippered
Rick Broida/CNET
As big, hair dryer-style massage guns go, the TaoTronics offers a lot to like. It's reasonably light for its size, plus it's smaller and quieter than MaxKare's similarly designed model. The metallic green coloring adds a nice bit of flair and I liked the partially squared grip.
TaoTronics provides six interchangeable heads and everything fits nicely in the included zippered case -- though the latter is actually a bit larger than MaxKare's. Traveling with this would require sacrificing a sizable chunk of suitcase.
The big standout feature here is the speed control, which has settings that range from 1 to 20. Nearly every other massager here gives you maybe four or five. How many speeds does a person really need? I don't know, but this massage gun is also notable for its unparalleled 4.9-star review average from over 2,300 buyers.
The price at this writing: $75 (with coupon), an all-time low and down from the usual $120.
- Weight: 1 pound, 11 ounces
- Charging method: Proprietary
- Number of heads included: Six
- Carrying case included: Zippered
Rick Broida/CNET
Most Theragun massagers -- save for the Mini in this roundup -- have a distinctive design: They're not "gun"-like at all, but rather more like a gas-pump handle.
TechCare's is the only one here that comes close to matching that design. Its big, curved handle affords a wider variety of grip choices, and the massage arm itself can rotate a full 90 degrees, which also expands your positioning options.
However, it's one of the heaviest models in the group, and for self-massage purposes I didn't find much value in the bigger grip or articulating arm. Indeed, I'm not sure I see the value of, say, extending the arm all the way forward. But I did like the super-simple controls and choice of 15 speed levels.
One usability complaint: Although this is the only massager with a removable battery, you have to remove it for charging. On the plus side, you can get spare batteries for $20 each.
If you like the Theragun design, this comes close for a fraction of the price. Overall, however, there are other massagers I like better.
- Weight: 2 pounds, 2 ounces
- Charging method: Proprietary
- Number of heads included: Four
- Carrying case included: Zippered
Rick Broida/CNET
Another model with a frequently fluctuating price, the MaxKare is big. In fact, it's the biggest massager in the group. That's not necessarily a bad thing, it just makes it tougher to travel with. To that end, MaxKare provides both a zippered carrying case and a shoulder bag -- the better to transport the six included massage heads.
The controls are a bit confusing at first, because what looks like a power button on the back of the device is the button that toggles between the gun's five different speeds. Power is actually controlled by an on-off switch on the bottom of the handle. Then there's a mode button that switches between "warm up," "relaxation" and "deep tissue" modes -- all of which just make intermittent speed changes while you're massaging.
There's currently a 30%-off coupon on the MaxKare product page; it drops the price down to $63. Prior to that, it was 10% off a lower starting price, but with the same end result. Either way, it's an appealing deal -- but be prepared for a gun with a bit more bulk and weight than most.
- Weight: 2 pounds, 5 ounces
- Charging method: Proprietary
- Number of heads included: Six
- Carrying case included: Zippered and shoulder
David Carnoy/CNET
The triangular Mini exerts an impressive amount of force for its size, but the shape makes it hard to hold comfortably. What's more, Therabody provides only one attachment, a ball head; other models here come with at least two, if not four or even six -- for a lower price.
Even at the lowest of its three speeds, the Mini feels stronger than a lot of the other guns I tried. In fact, anyone looking for just a light, relaxing massage might find it a little too powerful.
Meanwhile, the unit relies on a proprietary AC adapter, not USB-C. That's one more thing to pack on a trip -- and the adapter doesn't even fit in Therabody's snug zippered carrying case.
While I'd be glad to have this on hand for deep-tissue relief, it's hard to recommend otherwise. There are too many other models with more features and lower prices.
- Weight: 1 pound, 8 ounces
- Charging method: Proprietary
- Number of heads included: One
- Carrying case included: Zippered
Now playing: Watch this: Can't get a professional massage? Get a massage at home...
1:30
CNET's Cheapskate scours the web for great deals on tech products and much more. For the latest deals and updates, follow him on Facebook and Twitter. You can also sign up for deal texts delivered right to your phone. Find more great buys on the CNET Deals page and check out our CNET Coupons page for the latest Walmart discount codes, eBay coupons, Samsung promo codes and even more from hundreds of other online stores. Questions about the Cheapskate blog? Answers live on our FAQ page.
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.
ON L4L 5Y1 (647) 395-3188. BEAUTIFUL AND SEXY GIRLS TODAY: 
Superstar Lisa, RMT Rose and Beautiful Tiffany on duty
Babe Amy! BUY 10 HOURS (GET 11 HOURS) 
, 
, 
, 
and 
bbbj , DFk 
Duo 
ella, tiffany, ana, chrishtina 
Looking for a relaxing escape? 
Kim
♀
HAPPY Friday!!!
Two fab spots: SL Richmond Hill & SL West Oakville 
36D Flora, Cindy, Cici, Eva, Coco, JPN Yui, Happy, Cindy, Jasmine & Aaliyah 
Ring us 
647-695-6354 or text us 
647-578-8169
Where Eastern charm meets Western comfort - your bliss
JENNY’S SPA
ETOBICOKE ONTARIO M9A 1C4
NEW GIRLS EVERYDAY
30 Minutes Nude Mass
Golden Flower – 8380 Kennedy Rd, Unionville
(10–2AM), Cici 
(10–12AM), Sonia 
(8–2AM)
Book Now
address: #5-30 Rambler dr Brampton ,Ontario L6W 1E2
️
BlueXado – 1102 Centre St, Thornhill
, Mady 
, Amira 
, Candy 
welcome to wonder spa
beautiful young Jessica deep tissue to relax massage back walk,hot stone
𝓕𝓞𝓡𝓔𝓥𝓔𝓡 𝓢𝓟𝓐
𝓗𝓸𝓵𝓲𝓭𝓪𝔂 𝓢𝓹𝓪
, 
: CHRISTINA, MIA, SARA & TIFFANY. 1270 Finch Ave W (at Keele St), Unit 18. North York, ON ☎ 𝟰𝟯𝟳-𝟯𝟲𝟱-𝟮𝟲𝟴𝟴 ☎
