Are cheap massage guns worth it?
Yes — budget massage guns under $100 deliver real percussive therapy benefits for muscle recovery and soreness. The main trade-offs versus premium models are lower stall force (they bog down under firm pressure), less amplitude (less deep tissue penetration), and no app integration. For casual recovery use, a quality budget option like the Bob and Brad Q2 Mini is entirely sufficient.
What is the difference between the Bob and Brad Q2 Mini and the Theragun Mini 2.0?
The Bob and Brad Q2 Mini costs under $60 and offers 12mm amplitude, 6 speeds, and 6 attachments. The Theragun Mini 2.0 costs $149–$179 and offers 12mm amplitude, 3 speeds, and 3 attachments — but adds Theragun's QuietForce technology (significantly quieter), Bluetooth app integration with guided routines, and premium build quality. The Theragun Mini is worth the premium if you want app-guided routines and a quieter motor.
How much amplitude do you need in a massage gun?
For general muscle recovery and soreness, 10–12mm amplitude is sufficient. For deep tissue work on large muscle groups (quads, hamstrings, back), 14–16mm is more effective. Budget massage guns under $100 typically offer 10–12mm, which works well for most casual recovery needs.
What is stall force in a massage gun?
Stall force is how much pressure you can apply before the motor bogs down and stops. Higher stall force means you can press harder into tight muscle tissue without the device stalling. Budget massage guns typically have 20–35 lbs of stall force, which is adequate for light to moderate pressure. Premium models like the Theragun PRO Plus offer 60 lbs, which handles firm pressure on large, tight muscles.