These Mini Massage Guns Provide Mighty Muscle Recovery – Top Picks for 2024
Discover how these small on-the-go devices deliver effective muscle recovery.
Used by athletes of every sport and skill level, percussion therapy has become one of the most widely adopted forms of muscle recovery.
Massage guns, in particular, have exploded in popularity thanks to their ease of use and overall effectiveness.
Personally, I use a massage gun nearly every day, whether to warm up my muscles before a workout or to relieve sore muscles in the days following.
And the massage gun I use for this daily routine – a mini!
I’ve found that a mini massage gun packs all the punch I need for effective relief and recovery.
In fact, I rarely if ever even go up to the most powerful setting on my mini massage guns.
The other thing I really value in the design is how easy it is to move around and take with me.
From room to room, on my work desk, in a gym bag, mini massage guns barely take up any space and never feel like they’re in the way.
You might have even experienced for yourself how standard options can end up being quite heavy and bulky in size.
Here, we’ll cover the unique design features of mini massage guns, why an athlete might want to opt for one over a standard option, then introduce you to the top mini massage guns on the market today.
So, whether you’re a seasoned athlete that needs muscle relief on the go or a weekend warrior looking for an effective yet cost-friendly option, these mini massage guns are definitely worth a look.
Let’s ditch those sore muscles and get after it!
Note: Featured products are independently selected and reviewed by Compression Athlete. If you purchase through our links, we may earn commission.
What are we talking about when we say ‘mini’ massage gun?
This one may seem a bit intuitive, but just so that we’re all on the same page.
Mini massage guns are both lighter and smaller in size compared to their standard massage gun counterparts.
While a standard massage gun can be operated with one hand, a mini massage gun might actually be about the the size of your hand and likely fit in your pocket.
Additionally, most mini massage gun options will either mention “mini” in the title or make some allusion to its size.
Also, let’s clear up a big misconception about mini massage guns while we’re at it, concerning whether they pack enough punch to actually provide effective muscle recovery.
Yes, it’s true that standard massage guns typically can reach higher levels of power, speed, and amplitude.
But many athletes, including myself, find that they don’t actually need these extra powerful levels.
If you stick with a high-quality option from a reputable brand (like the ones we highlight below), your mini massage gun will pack more than enough power to deliver effective percussion therapy for noticeable muscle recovery benefits.
Why opt for a mini over a standard massage gun?
There are three unique selling points of the mini massage gun when compared to a standard massage gun.
1. Incredibly Portable
The most commonly sought-after feature of a mini massage gun is portability.
They're specifically designed to be travel friendly, whether you’re packing it in a suitcase or taking it with you on-the-go.
2. Extra Manageable
Not only does the smaller size make it easier to transport, but many athletes find a mini massage gun easier to use and for reaching different muscles on their body.
As we mentioned earlier, certain standard massage gun models can end up being quite heavy and bulky, especially once that motor powers up.
3. Cost Friendly
Here’s a feature that seems to get overlooked.
Mini massage guns cost less than their standard counterparts!
In some cases, we’re talking hundreds of dollars less.
If you feel like you probably don’t need all the extra power and features offered by an expensive high-end massage gun, go with a mini (your wallet will thank you).
Mini Massage Guns: Classic Handle vs. Ergonomic Handheld
When you browse mini massage gun options, you’ll quickly notice that they (diverge) into two distinct groups: the classic handle and the ergonomic handheld.
Both are effective and easy to use options, so choosing between them should really just boil down to your personal preference and your primary purpose of use.
For example, you may feel you have a bit more familiarity with the classic handle design.
Additionally, classic handle options typically offer an extra inch or so of reach if you’re looking to target a shoulder or back muscle.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to prioritize on-the-go functionality, perhaps something to easily pack in a gym bag, suitcase, or even your pocket, the ergonomic handheld designs tend to be the most portable and easy to pack.
Here are the best mini massage gun options for 2024.
Each of the options listed here is by a reputable massage gun brand and offers effective muscle recovery and relief from sore muscles.
These picks also reflect high-quality designs, quiet motors, and very positive customer experiences.
Beyond that, you’ll notice that the differences between these options come out in specific design details, device weight, battery life, head attachments, and price.
We’ve included a chart at the bottom of the list for quick and easy side-by-side comparison, as you consider your personal preferences, specific needs, and more.
1. Hypervolt Go 2 Massage Gun
The Hypervolt Go 2 has a perfect handheld design that’s lightweight (only 1.5 pounds), very intuitive to use, and utilizes QuietGlide technology for nearly silent use.
This massage gun is a budget-friendly option in a compact, portable, and high-quality design that’s also compatible with the Hyperice Heated Head Attachment.
Shop at Hyperice: Hypervolt Go 2
Available on Amazon: Hypervolt Go 2
Notable Features:
Weighs 1.5 pounds
Up to 3 hours of battery life per charge
3 powerful percussion speeds
2 head attachments (flat, bullet)
Why We Like It: Our pick for the best overall classic handle option with a high quality construction that delivers quiet and powerful relief.
2. Bob and Brad AIR 2 Mini Massage Gun
The Bob and Brad AIR 2 Mini Massage Gun features an ergonomic triangle design with a concave surface, curved angles for a firm grip, and a high-caliber brushless motor.
This massage gun is the only mini on the market under $100 that delivers 12 MM amplitude for effective deep tissue massage.
For 10% Off Use Discount Code: BBAIR2YT
Available on Amazon: Bob and Brad AIR 2
Notable Features:
Weighs 1.16 pounds
Up to 3 hours of battery life per charge
3 powerful percussion speeds
5 head attachments (fork, ball, cushion, flat, bullet)
Comes with travel case
Why We Like It: Our favorite ergonomic handheld option thanks to its long battery life, impressive 5 head attachments, and budget friendly price.
3. Ekrin BANTAM Massage Gun
The Ekrin BANTAM features a slim and lightweight design with an easy-grip handle and comes with a very impressive lifetime warranty.
For 20% Off Use Discount Code: CompressionAthlete
Shop at Ekrin: Ekrin BANTAM
Available on Amazon: Ekrin BANTAM
Notable Features:
Weighs 1.1 pounds
Up to 6 hours of battery life per charge
3 powerful percussion speeds
4 head attachments (flat, bullet, round, fork)
Comes with travel case
Why We Like It: Love the easy-grip handle, the long battery life, and its lifetime warranty should provide plenty of confidence in its quality.
4. REVO The Pill
The Pill by REVO features powerful and lightweight pocket-sized design with a German engineered steel brushless motor that’s whisper quiet and delivers deep tissue impact (up to 3200 RPM).
Shop at Revomadic: REVO The Pill
Available on Amazon: REVO The Pill
Notable Features:
Weighs 1.5 pounds
Up to 4 hours of battery life per charge
5 powerful percussion speeds
4 head attachments (round, cone, fork, flat)
Why We Like It: Very cool design and very quiet use. A sleek, compact, and powerful option with several speed and attachment options for personalized treatment.
5. Lumi miniPRO Massage Gun
The Lumi miniPRO Massage Gun features a portable pocket-sized design with a powerful 5kg Stall Force and up to 16 hrs of battery life.
This mini massage gun sports an ultra-lightweight yet durable aluminum shell that weighs a mere 1.08 pounds.
For 15% Off Use Discount Code: CompressionAthlete
Shop at Lumi Therapy: Lumi miniPRO
Notable Features:
Weights 1.08 pounds
Up to 16 hours of battery life per charge
4 powerful percussion speeds
4 head attachments (hammer, ball, bullet, twin-U)
Why We Like It: Far and away the best battery life with up to 16 hours per charge. Also, the perfect combination of lightweight and durable for on-the-go treatment.
6. Theragun Mini Massage Gun
The Theragun Mini features an ergonomic triangle handheld design with a QuietForce Technology brushless motor and 12 mm percussion amplitude for deep long-lasting relief.
Theragun’s Mini is Bluetooth® compatible with the Therabody app and available in 3 colors (black, white, and desert rose).
Shop at Therabody: Theragun Mini
Available on Amazon: Theragun Mini
Notable Features:
Weighs 1 pound
Up to 3 hours of battery life per charge
3 powerful percussion speeds
3 head attachments (ball, dampener, thumb)
Why We Like It: A lightweight, compact, and powerful ergonomic handheld design that’s also the only option with Bluetooth/App compatibility.
7. REP Rapidstrike Massage Gun
The REP Rapidstrike Massage Gun features an ergonomic triangular design with Intuitive Speed Control that automatically adjusts based on how much pressure you apply (i.e. no need for button-pushing adjustments).
This mini massage gun is constructed with lightweight aviation alloy material and utilizes a powerful yet quiet brushless motor.
Available on Amazon: REP Rapidstrike
Notable Features:
Weighs 2.3 pounds
Up to 8 hours of battery life per charge
Intuitive Speed Control
4 head attachments (bullet, flat, round, u-shape)
Comes with a travel case
Why We Like It: Constructed with durable alloy and features a signature Intuitive Speed Control for easy and seamless use.
Side-By-Side Comparison of Mini Massage Gun Product Features
Here, we've put together a convenient side-by-side comparison of the mini massage gun picks highlighted above.
See how our top picks stack up against one another when it comes to their design, weight, battery life, speed levels, head attachments, and price.
Product | Design | Weight | Battery Life | Speeds | Attachments | Price |
Hypervolt Go 2 | Handle | 1.5 lbs | 3 hours | 3 | 2 | $129 |
Bob & Brad AIR 2 | Handheld | 1.6 lbs | 3 hours | 3 | 5 | $90 |
Ekrin BANTAM | Handle | 1.1 lbs | 6 hours | 3 | 4 | $105 |
REVO The Pill | Handle | 1.5 lbs | 4 hours | 5 | 4 | $100 |
Lumi miniPRO | Handle | 1.08 lbs | 16 hours | 4 | 4 | $165 |
Theragun Mini | Handheld | 1 lb | 3 hours | 3 | 3 | $199 |
REP Rapidstrike | Handle | 2.3 lbs | 8 hours | Intuitive | 4 | $139 |
Remember: No matter your sport or style of training, sore muscles are an unfortunate reality for every athlete.
But effective muscle recovery will get you back in action faster.
For more of the best in muscle recovery for athletes, check out our picks for the Top Muscle Recovery Tools.
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