Theragun Prime vs Elite

So, you're looking for a Theragun on a budget - but not sure which one to choose? In this article I'm going to compare the two cheaper models of the highly popular device: the Theragun Prime vs Elite.

Therabody make some of the top rated, and most expensive, percussive massage guns on the market. But at up to $600, the Theragun isn't budget-friendly.

But you don't need the top or the range Theragun Pro. There are two cheaper devices made by Therabody - the $299 Theragun Prime and the $399 Theragun Elite.

Not only that, but there are similar massage devices that are available for under $200, and some have more features than any of the Theragun devices.

Why Choose a Theragun?

Theragun is one of the original percussive massage guns. Created by chiropractor Jason Wersland in 2009, it's gone through a number of versions before reaching the stylish and ergonomic device we see today.

These fantastic new devices can help your body warm up before exercise, and warm down after, and potentially even recover faster from exercise and ease discomfort.

While Theraguns used to be known for being very loud - some compared them to drilling holes in the wall - the latest versions, including the Prime and the Elite, are noticeably more quiet (although still not the quietest massage gun).

They are also expensive, costing over $1,000 for the top of the range Theragun Pro gold edition.

But both the Elite and the Prime are much cheaper than this. The Prime is the lowest price of the range, at just under $300, and the Elite is still a relatively moderate $400.

Although both these prices are much more expensive than many other devices, including our top rated devices, they are at least cheaper than the Pro.

What does the Theragun Offer?

Power, an ergonomic design, brand recognition and an effective massage.

There are other features too. One of the most remarkable, but in practice not that useful (in my opinion), is the app.

The Theragun app offers a selection of routines and customizes the speed setting based on what it thinks your body needs. This is useful, but as there are only 3 speeds it's a bit limited, and many users will be able to decide what their body requires (and is comfortable) for themselves.

Therabody are attempting to create a complete solution for those looking for a massage gun, and to an extent they have achieved this. Their devices are expensive but high quality, and the bluetooth app is a small step towards building something truly automatic and customizable - but it's not fully there yet.

All three of the main Theragun devices have about 2 hours max battery life per charge, but whereas the Pro comes with two interchangeable batteries, the Prime an Elite have single built in batteries, like most massagers.

Both the Prime and the Elite come with a 1 year limited warranty. Some might expect more for a premium brand like Therabody, but this is the standard warranty length for other massage guns too.

Bear in mind that these devices are not only for elite level athletes, they are designed to be usable and effective for anyone.

The Theragun Elite - $399

The Elite is a massage device without a rotating head but it does come with five massage heads - more than the prime's 4 heads. It is designed to be used on the entire body, including the face and head. The Elite has a high-powered motor that shoots out at up to 2500 PSI. This makes it a great option for athletes, people with chronic pain, and anyone who wants to add a massage to their daily routine.

The Elite is a high-end massage gun that offers users plenty of features. It comes with a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 60 minutes. It also comes with two different nozzles, two massage tips, and a water trap cap to help direct the flow of water.

The Theragun Elite is designed with a sturdy, ergonomic design. It has a rubberized handle for a firm grip, and it’s lightweight enough to use for long periods of time. The Elite also comes with a two-year warranty, so you can feel confident that you’re getting a high-quality product.

So which is better between the Theragun Elite vs Prime?

Theragun Elite vs Prime

Both the Theragun Prime and Elite share many features - as you'd expect.

Also unsurprisingly, the Elite has some extra features for the additional $100 it costs.

The main questions therefore are:

1. What does the Elite have that the Prime does not?

2. Is that worth an extra $100?

3. Is there anything that offers better value for money?

If you are looking for the closest thing to the Theragun Pro, but for less money, then the Elite is probably the device for you. If has an impressive look and many of the same features - apart from the interchangeable battery and rotating head.

No Theragun device is the quietest on the market though, although they are much less noisy than the famously loud Theraguns of the past. The Elite is widely reported as being slightly quieter than the Prime or Pro.

All three devices offer a limited range of speeds and have relatively short battery capacities too. A wider range of speeds could offer, in my opinion, more customization than the Theragun app does. There are also devices that come with more accessories.

If you are looking for the best budget massage gun, then check out this article before making any purchase.

That said, the Theragun is a top brand and the Prime offers the cheapest way to buy into this brand, while the Elite has many of the features of the top of the range Theragun Pro at a lower price.

Theragun Alternatives

Although the Theragun Prime and Elite are two excellent massage guns, and they are cheaper than the top of the range Pro, they are still by no means the best value-for-money devices on the market.

There are a wide range of other devices that are cheaper than the Theragun, and some offer more features for less money.

Devices including the top-rated AlphaGun X top our list for the best value massage gun on the market, so if you are looking for a cheaper alternative to any of the Theragun range, don't forget to check them out as well.

For more information about the Theragun Prime vs Elite, check out this website.

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