I’ve been on a quest to ease my muscle soreness after grueling workouts, and Theragun’s Elite and Pro models caught my eye. As a fitness enthusiast who’s no stranger to post-gym aches, I wanted to know which of these premium massage guns is worth the investment.
This article compares the Theragun Elite and Theragun Pro, breaking down their features, pros, and cons to help you decide which suits your recovery needs. From power to portability, I’ll share my real-world experience to guide you toward the perfect choice.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Theragun Elite | Theragun Pro |
| Price | $399 | $599 |
| Stall Force | 40 lbs | 60 lbs |
| Amplitude | 16 mm | 16 mm |
| Speed Settings | 5 (1750-2400 PPM) | 5 (1750-2400 PPM) |
| Attachments | 5 (Standard Ball, Dampener, Thumb, Wedge, Micro-Point) | 6 (Standard Ball, Dampener, Thumb, Wedge, Micro-Point, Supersoft) |
| Battery Life | 120 minutes (built-in) | 300 minutes (two 150-minute removable batteries) |
| Weight | 2.2 lbs | 2.9 lbs |
| Noise Level | ~61-68 dB | ~47-55 dB |
| Adjustable Arm | No | Yes (4 positions) |
| OLED Screen | Yes (speed, force meter) | Yes (speed, force meter, guided routines) |
| Bluetooth/App | Yes (Therabody app) | Yes (Therabody app) |
| Charging | Cable and adapter | USB-C, charging station |
| Warranty | 1 year | 2 years |
| Carrying Case | Premium hard-shell | Premium hard-shell |
My First Impressions: Unboxing The Theragun Elite and Pro
When I unboxed the Theragun Elite, I was struck by its sleek, triangular design.
It felt premium, like holding a piece of cutting-edge tech.
The glossy black finish and ergonomic grip screamed quality, though I noticed fingerprints smudging it almost instantly.
The Theragun Pro, on the other hand, had a heftier presence.
It’s noticeably heavier, but the adjustable arm and extra battery in the box hinted at its professional-grade promise.
Both came with a hard-shell carrying case, which I appreciated for keeping things organized, especially when tossing them into my gym bag.
The Elite felt like a lightweight champ, ready for daily use, while the Pro seemed like a powerhouse built for serious athletes or therapists. I couldn’t wait to put them to the test on my sore quads and tight shoulders.
Design and Build: Ergonomics Meet Durability
The signature triangular handle on both devices is a game-changer. I could grip them in multiple ways, making it easier to reach tricky spots like my lower back without contorting my arm. The Elite, at 2.2 pounds, felt effortless to hold for longer sessions.
My wrists didn’t tire, even after 10 minutes of massaging my calves. The Pro, weighing 2.9 pounds, was noticeably heavier. During extended use, I felt the strain, but the adjustable arm with four positions made up for it. I could angle it to hit my hamstrings or upper back with precision, something the Elite’s fixed arm couldn’t match.
Both devices feel like tanks—solid, premium, and built to last. The Pro’s rotating arm, though, gave it an edge for versatility. I could adjust it to target my glutes without awkwardly twisting my body, which was a relief after leg day. However, the Elite’s lighter weight made it my go-to for quick sessions.
Power and Performance: How Hard Do They Hit?
The Theragun Pro boasts a 60-pound stall force, meaning it can push harder against your muscles without stalling.
I tested it on my quads after a heavy squat session, and it felt like a deep-tissue massage from a pro.
The 16 mm amplitude dug deep, loosening knots I didn’t even know I had.
The Elite, with a 40-pound stall force, still packed a punch but felt slightly less intense.
For comparison, I rated the Pro a 9/10 for power, while the Elite scored an 8/10. If you’re someone who craves a firmer massage, the Pro’s extra torque is noticeable.
Both offer five speed settings (1750-2400 PPM), so I could dial in the intensity. On lower settings, the Elite was perfect for warming up before a run, while the Pro’s higher settings were ideal for post-workout recovery.
I found myself switching between speeds depending on the muscle group—lower for sensitive areas like my neck, higher for stubborn knots in my shoulders.
Noise Levels: Can You Use It Without Waking the House?
Noise was a big factor for me since I often use my massage gun at home in the evenings. The Elite, with its QX65 motor, ranges from 61-68 dB across its speeds—think loud conversation to vacuum cleaner. It’s not silent, but I could use it while watching TV without cranking the volume.
The Pro, with its QX150 motor, is quieter at 47-55 dB, closer to light rain or birdsong. I used the Pro in my living room while my partner napped nearby, and it didn’t disturb her. The 20% quieter claim for the Pro (thanks to its 2022 motor upgrade) held true in my tests.
If you’re sensitive to noise or live in a shared space, the Pro’s quieter operation is a clear win. But the Elite’s noise level wasn’t a dealbreaker for me, especially during daytime use.
Battery Life: How Long Can You Go?
Battery life matters when you’re on the go.
The Elite’s built-in battery lasts 120 minutes, which was enough for a week of 10-15 minute daily sessions.
Charging it with the cable and adapter was straightforward, though I wished it used USB-C for convenience.
The Pro, however, is a beast with two removable 150-minute batteries, totaling 300 minutes.
I swapped batteries mid-session during a long recovery day, and the charging station made recharging a breeze. The USB-C compatibility was a nice touch, aligning with my other devices.
For casual users like me, the Elite’s battery was sufficient. But if you’re a therapist or share the device with others, the Pro’s extended life and spare battery are clutch.
Attachments: Versatility for Every Muscle
The Elite comes with five attachments: Standard Ball, Dampener, Thumb, Wedge, and Micro-Point. I loved the Standard Ball for larger muscle groups like my quads and the Dampener for sensitive areas like my neck.
The Thumb was great for targeting knots in my shoulders, while the Wedge and Micro-Point added variety for specific needs. The Pro includes all these plus the Supersoft attachment, which I found perfect for treating tension headaches. It’s gentler, ideal for delicate areas like my temples.
Switching attachments on both devices was a breeze—just pop them in and out. The Pro’s extra attachment gave it a slight edge, especially for multi-user households or those with varied needs. I shared the Pro with my partner, who appreciated the Supersoft for her post-yoga sessions.
Technology: Smart Features That Shine
Both devices connect to the Therabody app via Bluetooth, which I found surprisingly useful. The app offers guided routines for warm-ups, recovery, and even sleep prep. I followed a “Lower Body Recovery” routine on the Elite, and it adjusted speeds automatically while showing me how to position the gun.
The Pro takes it further with on-device guided routines displayed on its OLED screen, meaning I didn’t need my phone. This was a game-changer during gym sessions when I left my phone in my locker.
The OLED screens on both show speed and force meter data in real time. I could see how hard I was pressing, which helped me avoid overdoing it on sore muscles. The Pro’s screen, with its guided visuals, felt more intuitive, but the Elite’s display was still clear and functional.
Portability: Taking It on the Road
The Elite’s lighter weight (2.2 lbs) and compact size (9.5 x 6.7 x 2.8 inches) made it a breeze to toss into my gym bag or suitcase.
I took it on a weekend trip and used it in my hotel room without issue.
The Pro, at 2.9 pounds and slightly larger (10 x 7.1 x 3 inches), was less convenient for travel.
Its bulkier carrying case didn’t fit as easily in my backpack, but the extra battery and attachments made it worth considering for longer trips.
For daily commutes to the gym, the Elite was my pick. But if you’re a professional needing a full kit, the Pro’s case and features justify the extra bulk.
Price and Value: Is the Pro Worth the Extra $200?
At $399, the Elite feels like a premium yet accessible option. It delivers high-end features without breaking the bank, making it ideal for fitness enthusiasts or casual users. The Pro, at $599, is a steeper investment.
The extra power, adjustable arm, quieter motor, and longer battery life are compelling, but I wondered if they justified the $200 price gap. For me, the Elite covered 90% of my needs—deep massages, app connectivity, and portability—at a lower cost.
If you’re a professional athlete or therapist, the Pro’s advanced features make sense. But for most users, the Elite offers excellent value without sacrificing performance.
Pros and Cons of Theragun Elite And Theragun Pro
Theragun Elite Pros
- Lightweight at 2.2 pounds, easy to handle for long sessions.
- Quieter than older models, suitable for home use.
- Five versatile attachments for varied muscle needs.
- Bluetooth app connectivity with guided routines.
- More affordable at $399, great for casual users.
- Ergonomic triangular grip for comfortable use.
Theragun Elite Cons
- 40-pound stall force less powerful than the Pro.
- Fixed arm limits reach for some muscle groups.
- 120-minute battery life shorter than the Pro.
- Only one-year warranty, less than the Pro’s two years.
- Glossy finish shows fingerprints easily.
Theragun Pro Pros
- Powerful 60-pound stall force for intense massages.
- Quieter operation (47-55 dB) with advanced motor.
- Adjustable arm with four positions for better reach.
- Six attachments, including Supersoft for sensitive areas.
- 300-minute battery life with two removable batteries.
- Two-year warranty for added peace of mind.
Theragun Pro Cons
- Heavier at 2.9 pounds, tiring for extended use.
- Expensive at $599, a big jump from the Elite.
- Bulkier size less ideal for frequent travel.
- Overkill for casual users who don’t need max power.
Putting Theragun Elite And Theragun Pro To The Test
I tested both devices over a month, using them after runs, weightlifting, and long desk-bound workdays. The Elite was my go-to for quick sessions. After a 5K run, I used the Standard Ball attachment on my calves for 10 minutes, and the soreness melted away.
The app’s guided routines helped me target my hamstrings effectively, and the lightweight design meant I could use it without fatigue.
The Pro shone during recovery from heavy deadlifts. Its higher stall force tackled deep knots in my glutes, and the adjustable arm let me hit awkward spots without strain. The Supersoft attachment was a lifesaver for my tension headaches, offering gentle relief.
However, the weight was noticeable after 15 minutes, and I didn’t always need the extra power.
One evening, I compared them side by side on my shoulders. The Pro felt more intense, almost like a professional masseuse, but the Elite was no slouch, delivering a satisfying massage. For daily use, I leaned toward the Elite’s simplicity and portability. But when I needed serious muscle work, the Pro was unmatched.
Who Should Buy The Theragun Elite?
The Elite is perfect for fitness enthusiasts, casual athletes, or anyone dealing with everyday aches. Its lighter weight and lower price make it ideal for home or gym use. If you want a powerful massage gun without spending a fortune, the Elite delivers.
I’d recommend it for runners, yogis, or desk workers who need regular muscle relief but don’t require the Pro’s extra features.
Who Should Buy The Theragun Pro?
The Pro is built for professional athletes, physiotherapists, or those with demanding recovery needs. Its higher stall force, adjustable arm, and longer battery life make it a workhorse for intense sessions or multiple users.
If you’re treating clients or pushing your body to the limit, the Pro’s advanced capabilities are worth the investment. It’s also great for shared households where versatility matters.
Also Read: Is Neckbud Massage Roller Worth It?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
For casual users or those with moderate recovery needs, the Pro’s power and features may be excessive. The Elite offers ample performance for most at a lower price.
No, the Theragun Elite is not discontinued. It remains a key model in Therabody’s lineup, though newer models like the Prime Plus have emerged.
The Theragun Pro is the most powerful, with a 60-pound stall force compared to the Elite’s 40 pounds, ideal for intense deep-tissue massages.
Reddit users note the Pro’s higher stall force (60 lbs vs. 40 lbs), adjustable arm, and longer battery life (300 vs. 120 minutes) but highlight the Elite’s lighter weight and lower price as better for casual users.
Conclusion: Which Theragun Should You Choose?
After testing both, I’m convinced the Theragun Elite and Pro are top-tier massage guns, but your choice depends on your needs. If you’re like me—a fitness enthusiast looking for reliable, daily relief—the Elite’s lightweight design, solid power, and lower price make it a fantastic pick.
But if you’re pushing your body hard or need a professional-grade tool, the Pro’s extra torque, adjustable arm, and longer battery life are worth the splurge. Weigh your budget and recovery goals, and you’ll find the perfect Theragun to keep your muscles happy.