I took an in-depth look at Theragun Pro vs Elite, but which one is right for you? Hopefully, I can answer that question for you. The Pro and Elite models are top of the range of Theragun massage guns. And, although there are similarities with both of these models, the Pro has a few unique features and functionality.
Theragun: How It All Began
Before we dive into the Theragun Pro and Elite models, let’s take a look at how it all started. Dr. Jason Wersland is the founder and creator of Theragun. His story is quite remarkable because he faced an immense challenge and turned it into something so positive. At the time, I can imagine that he did not know that he would help so many people with the creation of a device that alleviates aches and pains.
In 2007, Dr. Wersland was in a terrible motorcycle accident that left him with debilitating pain. This pain inspired him to develop a device to help alleviate it. The very first prototype of a Theragun massage gun was created in Dr. Wersland’s garage. There were numerous prototypes before Theragun hit the market officially in 2016. A true innovator, Dr. Wersland created the first percussive massage gun that was developed to alleviate chronic pain.
Dr. Wersland stated that “seeing the incredible impact of Theragun on people around the world, from all walks of life, helped me realize the need for more natural solutions that really work - and how important it is to put the power to feel better back in people’s hands.” And he has done exactly that, he put the power of one's health by alleviating aches, pains and so much more into their own hands.
Why Theragun Is At The Top of Its Game
I truly believe that with any brand it all starts with the product developer and Theragun is a perfect example of why it has had such immense success. As a chiropractor, Dr. Wersland knows and understands pain and how to alleviate it. And he took his own personal experience and applied it to a device that has now helped people globally.
After Dr. Wersland’s initial prototype, Theragun’s massage guns were developed by medical experts and backed by science. What makes this brand dominant is that it is the “only whole-body wellness device with the 5-in-1 proven benefits of recovery, performance, sleep, mobility and stress.”
There are several factors that make Theragun massage guns unique. First and foremost, the overall design and look of the Theragun massager make it stand out from the rest of its competition with its patented triangular multi-grip handle. Other features that make Theragun massagers unique are the range of intensity and deeper amplitude.
Theragun Pro vs Elite: Which Model Should You Choose?
Regardless of which model you choose, when you purchase a Theragun massager you really can’t go wrong. Each model has standard features and then there are those unique to each model. Let’s specifically take a look at Theragun Pro vs Elite.
Features and Functionality: This Is Where Pro and Elite Remain The Same
Triangle Multi-Grip Handle: Both the Theragun Pro and Elite models have a patented Theragun Triangle ergonomic handle that allows you to grip from several different angles. And, this multi-grip handle makes it much easier to reach different body parts while not causing strain on your arms, hands, and wrists.
QuietForce Technology: The Theragun Pro and Elite massage guns both have a patented QuietForce Technology which gives you all of the power of a deep percussive massage without the noise. These powerful massagers will give you an amazing massage without disrupting conversation or your favorite television show.
Deeper Amplitude: Theragun Pro and Elite models both have an amplitude of 16mm that goes 60% deeper into the muscles than the average massager on the market today. This deeper amplitude allows for more therapeutic benefits.
Smart App: The Therabody app studies your behaviors and suggests routines which are then sent to your device via Bluetooth. For example, if you completed a long run, the app may suggest a massage therapy session focusing on your feet and legs.
OLED Screen: Both of these Theragun models have an OLED screen which provides convenient access to your speeds and force meter. Also, without any of your devices, you are able to choose from three different treatments through this OLED screen that are preset for you via your Therabody app.
Customizable Speeds: There are five built-in speeds that range from 1750 to 2400 PPM. The range of these 5 speeds allows you to work on more sensitive areas at a lower speed up to the full power of these devices on areas that need it, such as larger muscle groups and tight muscles.
Theragun Pro vs Elite: What Differentiates These Two Massage Guns
Now that we see how many similarities the Theragun Pro and Elite models have, let’s take a look at what differentiates them.
Price: Whether you purchase the Theragun Pro or Elite directly on the company’s site or via Amazon, you will pay approximately $200 more for the Pro model. There’s a reason the Pro is $200 more than the Elite as you will see with the features and functionality below.
Battery Life: The Pro wins this one with 5 hours of battery life and two external swappable batteries. The Elite Theragun model has an internal ion lithium battery that can be charged wirelessly. This is two hours of uninterrupted massages that can last for days of massaging. Battery life is not something that you want to worry about when you take your Theragun on the road with you and with either model you won’t, but most especially with Theragun Pro.
Rotating Arm: The Theragun Pro has a rotating arm along with four positions, making it seamless to reach any part of your body without straining your arms, hands, or wrists.
Force: The Theragun Pro has a stall force of 60lbs whereas Theragun Elite has 40lbs of stall force. Both of these are powerful and will offer an excellent deep massage, though the Pro wins out on its 60lbs of force without stalling.
The similarities in functionality and features outweigh the differences, though with the Pro being more expensive, there are some key features that make it a stand out. The battery life is 5 hours vs 2 hours with the Elite. And the rotating arm of the Pro is a major feature that will make using the massager seamless by allowing you to reach parts of your body that you may not otherwise be able to get to with ease. Lastly, a 20lb difference in stall force is quite significant.
And although the unique features of the Pro are pretty amazing, you have to ask yourself is this a necessity for you. In the end, it’s a very personal decision where features, functionality and budget all come to play. With Theragun massage guns, you really can’t go wrong with any model, so whether you decide that the Pro or Elite are for you, either way you will have a stellar massage gun.