Before you spend $600 on a massage gun, see which 5 are actually worth it

The Prime gives you the feature that makes Theragun popular, a 16mm amplitude that reaches deeper than many cheaper guns, without the Pro's price. The triangle-shaped handle lets you hold it in several positions, which helps when reaching your own back and shoulders. It has five speeds and connects to Therabody's app for guided routines. Owners say it handles everyday post-workout soreness well. It is louder than Hyperice models, and the battery is built in rather than swappable. For most people who want one good massage gun, it is the safest choice.

If you plan to use a massage gun on the couch while someone else watches TV, noise matters. Hyperice built its reputation on quieter motors, and owners of the Hypervolt 2 consistently mention it. It uses a straight T-shaped handle that is easy to grip, three speed settings and five interchangeable heads. The stroke is shallower than Theragun's, so it feels lighter on dense muscles like the glutes. It also connects to the Hyperice app. For general soreness and relaxation, many people prefer the gentler, quieter feel.

Full-size massage guns are bulky to travel with. The Theragun Mini fits in a small bag and still delivers a solid percussive massage for legs, arms and shoulders. It has three speeds and a 12mm stroke, which is shallower than the Prime but deeper than many budget minis. Runners and gym-goers like it for warm-ups and quick recovery away from home. The trade-off is reach. The short body makes it hard to get to your own back. If you mostly treat legs and arms, it may be all you need.

Cheap no-name massage guns are everywhere, but many fail within a year. The Hypervolt Go 2 offers a low price from an established brand with real support. It is small, light and quiet, with three speeds and two attachments. Owners say it is ideal for travel, office desks and quick sessions before or after a run. It is not as powerful as the full-size Hypervolt 2, and pressing hard on big muscles can slow it down. For light recovery work and loosening tight spots, it delivers the basics well.

The Theragun Pro is built for people who use a massage gun daily or work on others, such as trainers and therapists. Its rotating arm lets you reach your own back at awkward angles, and it ships with two swappable batteries, so it never sits idle while charging. The motor resists stalling when you lean into large muscle groups. All of that costs a lot, and it is heavy to hold for long sessions. Most recreational athletes will be happy with the Prime. If you train hard every day, the Pro is the one built to keep up.