Bob And Brad Air 2 Mini Massage Gun Review

Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini Review: The Thrifty Theragun Mini Twin

When we first opened the package, we found the Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini intriguing. It’s essentially a reimagined Theragun Mini, or perhaps a simplified version of it… Instead of dwelling on the plagiarism vs. creativity debate, let’s get straight to what we’ll cover in this review.

How is the new Air 2 Mini massager? Is it any good? It sure looks like Theragun Mini, but does it offer what the latter does, or is it even a tad better?

Hang around for this and more, including whether you need to consider buying it.

Key Takeaways

  • This is Bob and Brad’s new massage gun, released in November 2023.
  • This device boasts a high amplitude (12mm), making it a noteworthy contender after the Theragun Mini.
  • Pros: build quality, materials, attachments; Cons: so-so power and ergonomics.
  • The biggest win: price! For this money, it’s simply unbeaten in a mini category (plus, we have a coupon; read on).


Bob And Brad Air 2 Mini Review By Greg Szostak From Massagegunadvice
Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini massage gun review by Greg.

Bob and Brad’s Lineup

Bob and Brad’s​1​ track record in the world of massage guns is nothing short of impressive. Their lineup boasts names like C2, T2, Q2, Uni, X6 Pro and D6 Pro – devices we’ve had the pleasure of putting through their paces.

And now, we turn our attention to their latest creation, the Air 2 Mini massage gun. As we dive into this review, we find ourselves pondering where it fits in among its siblings and whether it can hold its own against the usual suspects like the Theragun Mini, Ekrin Bantam, and more.


First Impressions

(Feel free to skip to the Air 2 Mini Review section if high-level debating and dilemmas make you sleepy.)

The first thing that pops into your head, and trust me, it crossed our minds too, is what’s the deal with “Air 2”? Is there some elusive “Air 1” hidden in the shadows that we’re not privy to? It’s a fair question, right?

I mean, Hyperice and their whole naming strategy come to mind, but guess what? Bob and Brad don’t play by the same rulebook. They’ve got a thing for adding a “2” to their device names.

You’ve got your C2, your Q2, and T2. It’s like they’re on a quest to be the kings of the twos (except somehow for the X6 and D6, where they target number six)!

Now, let’s give credit to Bob and Brad for their creative product naming – they can call their devices whatever they please. We’re more intrigued by what this massage gun brings to the table.


The Air 2 Mini on Video

Check out the video below where we unbox our unit, share first impressions, perform speed and stall force tests, and compare it with other mini massage guns. It’s a great visual introduction to what we’ll be discussing in detail in the following post.

TIP Feel free to subscribe to our channel for more comprehensive video reviews!

Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini Review

Testing Impressions

Bob And Brad Air 2 Mini Massage Gun Specification Device Box Img1
  • 12 mm amplitude for deep tissue massage
  • 5 high variety attachment heads
  • Top-notch design & quality
  • Excellent Value for Money

Our review score:

4.5

Use code MGAAIR2MINI for 10% OFF.
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Pros

  • High amplitude
  • True to specs
  • USB-C charging
  • Great attachments
  • Quality of build and materials
  • Value for the money

Cons

  • So-so stall force and ergonomics
  • Too Theragun-ish? (lack of uniqueness)

Specification

FeatureBob and Brad Air 2 Mini (BB02) Specs
Stall Force~20 lbs (our estimation)
Stroke Length12 mm (verified)
Speeds3
Percussion range1750, 2100, 2400 RPM (verified)
Weight1.16 lbs
Dimensions5.1 x 4.9 x 2 inches
Attachments5 included
Noise (decibel)50.8 – 54.7 dB (verified)
Battery / Charging Time4800 mAh / 3.5h (advertised)
Warranty1-year default (+1 extra for our readers*)
Base Price & Discount$89.99 before coupon
Apply the MGAAIR2MINI code for the extra 10% off**
Where to BuyCheck at Amazon
Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini (model BB02) specifications.
*more on the extension in the warranty section
**apply the code at Amazon checkout

Package and What is Included

Ah, we’re all for a good package – it’s like a brand’s way of saying, “We care about your happiness!” And our Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini package? Well, it didn’t let us down.

The carrying case for the Air 2 really meets our expectations for practicality and durability. It’s a solid build case, aligning with the quality we’ve seen in other Bob and Brad products. Notably, it features a nicely embossed logo that adds a subtle but distinctive touch.

Now, inside the case, you’ll find the usual suspects that come with most massage guns. Remember, this is a mini massage gun, and they typically don’t pack the box with a ton of extras – usually just the device and one or two accessories.

And this Bob and Brad goes beyond the standard package, adding value to your purchase. Pop open the case, and you’ll see it all laid out for you: the massager, five attachments, a USB-C charging cable, spare gaskets, and a user manual.

What Is Included With Bob And Brad Air 2 Mini Massage Gun
What is included: the massager, five attachments, a USB-C charging cable, spare gaskets, and a user manual.

Design

Now, onto the design of this gadget.

The body has a concave shape, which does help with the grip. And it’s not just the shape; it’s also about the material they’ve used. While it may look like plastic, it certainly doesn’t feel that way. The body has this rubbery, smooth texture that’s quite pleasant to hold.

Now, for the control freaks – there’s a single button that does it all. It’s surrounded by three LEDs plus one in the button center, so you won’t be left in the dark about what’s happening. And hallelujah, there’s a USB-C port nearby, which is always a win in our book.

Plus, they’re letting you choose between a sleek black or a fiery red device. Your choice!


Size

So, as the name suggests, the Air 2 Mini is clearly a small gadget, but how small is it, exactly?

Well, it measures up at 5.1 x 4.9 x 2 inches and tips the scales at 1.16 pounds.

Bob And Brad Air 2 Mini More Like Small Massager
The Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini: not the smallest, yet not the largest in size among mini massagers. Perfectly positioned in the middle.
Massage GunCategorySize
inches
Weight
lbs
Bob and Brad Q2 MiniTiny5.7 x 3.3 x 1.81
Ekrin BantamMini6.1 x 3.7 x 1.91.1
Bob and Brad Air 2 MiniSmall5.1 x 4.9 x 2.01.16
Theragun miniSmall5.5 x 4.2 x 1.91.1
Hypervolt Go 2Large6.7 x 7.3 x 2.01.57
Renpho R3 MiniLarge7.9 x 7.3 x 2.31.5
Size comparison of the Air 2 Mini with other mini category massagers.

Ergonomics

Now, when it comes to ergonomics, well, we’ve already given Bob and Brad’s design a bit of a tough love tap, especially in the comfort department. It’s not your typical massage gun design; it’s more like trying to hold the chunkier side of a kettlebell while giving yourself a rubdown. Not exactly the coziest grip for extended periods.

With the Air 2 Mini, the weight shifts slightly to the side. This might work better if it had something to hold onto. But because you can’t quite wrap your hand around anything, you might find yourself gripping the device a bit too tightly, and that can lead to hand fatigue rather quickly.

We had a bit of trouble giving our backs a good rubdown with this setup. It still works decently for massaging things in front of you, like your hands or if you’re working on someone else. And the material used does ensure a reasonably good grip, so no unexpected slips.

But all things considered, we’d give Bob and Brad a solid 3 out of 5 in the ergonomics department.


Controls

Operating this device is a breeze.

  • A single press of the main button reveals the battery status through the LED in the button center.
  • Hold the button for two seconds to power it on, and it will start buzzing on the first gear.
  • To switch gears, just give it a quick tap. You have 3 gears at your disposal and 3 LEDs that tell you which one you are operating on now.
  • To power it down, press and hold the button again for two seconds.
Bob And Brad Air 2 Mini Controls

It’s a straightforward and intuitive process. And to help you save on battery life, there’s a nifty 10-minute auto-shutoff feature.


Attachments

Now, can we take a moment to applaud what might just be the crown jewel of this massage gun? The attachments are a real highlight here, and they’re beautifully done.

In fact, you’ll find a whopping 5 attachments in the case, which is more than we’ve ever seen accompany a mini massage gun.

Bob And Brad Air 2 Mini Include Five Great Quality Attachments

What makes Bob and Brad’s Air 2 Mini stand out is that they’ve not only got the quantity but also the quality. These attachments aren’t just clones of one another.

Let’s break it down for you:

  • The ball attachment – despite the manual calling it “large ball,” it’s actually on the smaller side here.
  • The Flat attachment – now, the manual dubs it the “standard ball” for some inexplicable reason.
  • The Fork attachment – which they’ve given the curious name “U-shaped.”
  • The Bullet attachment – this one gets to keep its proper name.
  • The Air Cushion attachment – and this, my friends, is where it gets interesting. This is the attachment that deserves a standing ovation because many minis out there simply don’t have it. It’s the ideal tool for massaging those tender spots – bony areas, sore spots, and more.

Oh, it’s important to note that the attachments use a standard push-and-pull mechanism, which can wear out over time. Bob and Brad have thoughtfully included two extra gaskets in the set to address this. They’re clearly making sure to cover all bases when it comes to durability and long-term use.

Bob And Brad Air 2 Mini Standard Push And Pull Attachment Mounting Mechanism
Easily attachable without force, the Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini’s attachments fit securely and remain in place, even when the massager is in operation.

Performance

When it comes to recommending massage guns to our readers, we take our job pretty seriously. We invest a significant amount of time in testing a device’s performance, ensuring it meets our high standards. We’ve got our eyes on three critical parameters: Amplitude, Stall Force, and Percussions Per Minute. Now, let’s dive into how the Air 2 Mini holds up in these departments.


Amplitude

Now, let’s talk about Amplitude, or in simple terms, the stroke length. It’s the distance that a massage gun head covers, measured from the base to the tip of the attachment.

In the case of the Air 2 Mini, we’ve measured it at 12mm, which aligns perfectly with the manufacturer’s declarations. It’s refreshing to see accurate specifications, as overpromising and underdelivering is a common issue we’ve encountered in various tests across our blog.

Bob And Brad Air 2 Mini Massage Gun Measured Amplitude
Our test confirms it’s a true 12mm amplitude massager.

So, what does a true 12mm mini device like Air 2 Mini offer you?

Well, it’s all about delivering a deep percussive massage. The device can delve deeper into your muscle tissue, helping to loosen those stubborn knots and leaving you feeling re-energized.

Often, devices with longer amplitude don’t vibrate as fast. It’s a trade-off that’s quite common. So, does this device come with fewer vibrations? Well, let’s dig a bit deeper to find out.


Percussions

You’ve hit the nail on the head. The percussions per minute here don’t quite reach the blazing speeds you might anticipate from a typical mini device (but hey, they don’t reach this amplitude level, right?).

You can expect a range between 1750-2400 RPM, across three speeds: 1750, 2050, and 2400 RPM. And these are verified by our measurements, so no trickery here, kudos!

Bob And Brad Air 2 Mini Max Percussions Per Minute Measured During Our Test
We used a laser tachometer to verify the RPM of each speed setting on the Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini. They are true to the specifications, as confirmed.

Stall Force

Now, let’s delve into what we call “Stall Force,” which is essentially the measurement of the pressure it takes to bring a device to a halt. 

Unfortunately, the stall force here doesn’t quite earn a standing ovation. If we’ve been singing praises for all the other aspects, this is the one that puts a little dent in the scorecard. In simpler terms, don’t go thinking this is packing the powerhouse punch of a full-sized gun – far from it.

We estimate the Air 2 Mini can handle about 20 pounds of pressure. This is pretty par for the course in the mini massage gun category.

How does it translate to your everyday use?

Well, with the Air 2 Mini, applying more pressure might stop the device. We’ll still give it credit for being a user-friendly, everyday fatigue-busting device, but don’t expect it to go toe-to-toe with the Hulk.

If you happen to be a bulky muscular giant, this one might feel more like a tickle than a deep tissue massage (but in this case, you probably shouldn’t look at any mini at all).


Noise Level

When it comes to mini devices, they tend to be the stealthy ninjas of the massage gun world – you won’t catch them making a lot of racket unless there’s something awry.

Our trusty decibel meter clocked in at a range of 51dB to 55dB (as shown in the photo).

It’s a noise level similar to a refrigerator’s hum or the ambient noise in a quiet office, which in everyday use means the device is discreet enough not to be disruptive. You could comfortably use it while watching TV without the need to significantly raise the volume or even in a quiet room without disturbing others.

Bob And Brad Air 2 Mini Max Noise Level Measured During Our Test
In our noise level tests, we reached a maximum of 55dB (note: environmental noise is around 35dB).

It’s not just about decibels (dB) but also about the type of noise produced. The sound of the Air 2 Mini isn’t an annoying buzz; it’s more of a smooth hiss. No clattering or disruptive noises to contend with.

The vibrations are evenly distributed throughout the device, so your hand doesn’t feel like it’s taking a beating. All in all, it’s a stable and well-behaved device in the noise department.


Battery and Charging

Now, the battery situation on this thing had us scratching our heads a bit. It’s a tad unusual because we know Bob and Brad usually like to be upfront about their device batteries.

We had to do some detective work, scouring their Amazon listing, and finally, we got a number: 4800mAh in terms of capacity.

That’s not just decent; it’s actually pretty darn impressive – nearly double what you’d find in most similar devices. However, we’re taking it with a pinch of salt for now, and we promise to update this post as soon as more information rolls in.

But aside from the tantalizing capacity, it charges up in a jiffy. You’re looking at about 3.5 hours to go from empty to full.

And oh, it’s packing a USB-C charging port (cable also included) – how convenient, right? Even iPhones have hopped on that bandwagon by now.

Bob And Brad Air 2 Mini Has Usb C Charging Cable Included

Warranty and Price

You get a 1-year warranty when you buy this device. This is pretty much the standard coverage for most massage guns.

EXCLUSIVE WARRANTY UPGRADE OFFER

Recently, Bob and Brad have made a special offer just for our audience. They’re giving an extra year of warranty on the Air 2 Mini and any other massage gun they have. To take advantage of this, simply purchase your massage gun, then email [email protected] with your order number. Make sure to mention “Massage Gun Advice Warranty Extension” in your email, and they’ll extend your warranty period by an additional year.


Now, let’s talk price.

The device is priced at $89.99, and this is yet another feather in Bob and Brad’s cap. It’s a fantastic deal and one of the reasons we believe this product is destined for success.

To sweeten the deal further, you can use our MGAAIR2MINI coupon code, which nets you a cool 10% discount. It’s a win-win all around. Use this Amazon link and apply the code at checkout.

TIP Bob and Brad often run sales. So, it’s worth checking our Best Deals page or Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale listing to see if there are any current offers!


So, Is It Worth It and Who’s It Best For?

After testing this new Bob and Brad device and considering everything we discussed above, this device has a lot to offer for normal-use folks.

Bob And Brad Air 2 For Every Day Use

The Air 2 Mini is a portable device with decent performance features. The stall force may be a bit weak for those who need something aggressive, but it’s not bad if you need a portable, small solution that can give you a good rub down.

The high, 12mm amplitude makes it a better choice for those looking for a more punchy device, as it moves beyond typical vibrational therapy to more entry-level deep tissue massage.

Thanks to its size and design, the Air 2 Mini is also a good choice for women, runners, elderly folks, and anyone dealing with ailments such as plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, elbow or knee discomforts.

It works well for neck and shoulder relief but is not the best for high back pain and aggressive large muscle massage, mainly due to its less ergonomic design.

Lastly, and importantly, it’s even approved by the TSA for carry-on​2​, making it an ideal travel companion for your on-the-go adventures.


Real-Life Test The Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini for Running Warm-Up

Before hitting the pavement for a 5k, I gave my muscles a quick once-over with the Air 2 Mini, using the flat head – this attachment is my favorite, especially for larger muscles.

It got them ready to roll right from the start, despite the uncooperative weather. I can definitely say this little gadget made a noticeable difference.


Conclusion

And there you have it, our Bob and Brad Air 2 mini review.

It has a lot to offer at a very generous price. And it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.

We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences with the Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini (if you had a chance to get it already). Feel free to share your comments below or join discussions on the MassageGunTalks Facebook group – join now!


Our Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini Rating

  • Quality
  • Effectiveness
  • Usability
  • Accessories
  • Price Value
4.5

Summary

The Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini offers a perfect blend of portability and effectiveness for everyday use. With a 12mm amplitude, it provides more than just superficial vibrational therapy, making it good choice for entry-level deep tissue massage. While it’s not designed for aggressive, deep muscle work, it’s excellent for routine muscle relief and suits a variety of users, from runners to those with common ailments. Overall, it’s a great value in the mini massage gun category.

Sending
User Review
4.5 (12 votes)

References
  1. 1.
    Bob and Brad Official Website. About Us – www.bobandbrad.com. https://www.bobandbrad.com/about
  2. 2.
    Massagers. TSA.gov An official website of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/massagers

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Post Update History

Here's a quick rundown of all the tweaks and edits we've made to this article to keep it accurate and up-to-date!

Current version.

November 17, 2023 Video review added. (Author: Greg)

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Greg Szostak

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Greg Szostak

Hey, I'm Greg, co-founder of MassageGunAdvice.com, with four years of experience in testing over 50 different massage guns. As an avid marathon runner interested in sports tech, I ensure our product reviews are accurate. My responsibility is to verify device specifications and maintain review consistency, simplifying product comparisons for our readers. With a web and graphic design background, I snap the photos and videos you see and keep our site looking sharp.

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