The 5 Best EMS Machines for Muscle Growth and Recovery, According To PTs

Among the many muscle stimulators we tested, the Therabody PowerDot 2.0 Uno hits all our best marks thanks to its powerful stimulation, lightweight design, easy interface, and long battery life (up to 20 hours!). The device connects via Bluetooth and works with an app that offers guided programs for performance, wellness, and pain, says Sanchez. The PowerDot also includes a wide range of modes for targeted warm-ups, massage, pain relief, and strength, and the electrodes are applied wirelessly which is great for portability, he says.

Men’s Health fitness and commerce editor, Charles Thorp, also gives the PowerDot high remarks. “Off the rip, I was impressed by the app and the product’s ability to bring concentrated relief to sore muscles,” he says. “There are a few different ways to attack sore muscles, like foam rollers or massage guns, but the PowerDot system provides a great hands off option.”

Thorp also raves about the battery life and compact design which makes it great for travel and on-the-go workouts. “Being someone that trains to the point of almost over training, having recovery modalities like the PowerDot is worth it,” he says.

The Beurer Digital TENS +EMS Device is a great budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality or accessibility. The electrodes can be easily put onto your abdomen, arm, leg, or calf, and offers direct electrical stimulation to the targeted area. The simple interface also allows you to select one of the 44 treatment programs or program your own customized routine.

Unlike the above two products on the list, the Compex Performance 3.0 Muscle Stimulator contains an operational control box from which the electrode sensors are attached, says Dr. Melamed. So, users apply the sensors to the affected area and control each one using the hand-held device, he explains. In particular, the design and TENS kit is especially beneficial for stimulating sensory neurons and managing pain, adds Fata-Chan.

The unit comes with multiple settings tailored for strength, endurance, recovery, and pain-relief, and Sanchez says the interface is simple to use. It’s compact enough to throw in your gym bag or take to a sporting event, and the 8 hour battery life is reliable before, during, or after a workout. When you’re extra sweaty, the silicone case also prevents water damage and helps improve grip.

If you’re looking for a full-body device that covers a large surface area, Dr. Melamed says the MarCoolTrip MZ Electronic Muscle Stimulator is your pick. The user-friendly product works on the abs, arms, calves, and legs (though it may be too small to fit entirely around larger thighs), and the 25 modes are easy to adjust depending on your needs, he says.

The neoprene material fits comfortably against the skin to deliver stimulation without causing irritation, and the control panel is fixed directly on the belt for convenient use. Similar to other devices, just note the belt should be moist before use, so a mist bottle or nearby water source is necessary. The battery life is not explicitly stated, but the controller is easily chargeable with a USB cable.

The Chattanooga Primera TENS/NMES Unit is a great medical-grade device usually found in healthcare facilities, says Fata-Chan. It offers eight TENS programs and six NMES programs for a range of needs, and the powerful electrical pulses are designed to reduce muscle spasms, tone weak muscles, and enhance healing through repeated muscle contraction, he explains. Plus, within the eight TENS treatment options, you can select either continuous, burst, or modulated modes for a personalized treatment.

The device is lightweight and includes a carrying case for easy transportation, however the patches themselves cover a smaller surface area compared to other options on the list. The exact battery life is not stated, but a symbol will flash when the battery goes below 6.9 volts, so you know when it’s time to charge.