Author, Expert Board Member
Bio:
Alex Stone is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and a certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (NSCA). He currently practices orthopedics in Bellevue, Washington, and manages an online health coaching business via social media (@dr.alexstone). He is passionate about health science education and general health/wellness optimization.
ByMario
Fact checked by Dr. Alex Stone, DPT, CSCS.
Amplitude is the most important spec when you want to know how deep a massage gun can go. It tells you how far the head moves in and out with each hit. Devices with longer amplitude are typically better suited for deep tissue massage on large muscle groups like glutes, hamstrings, and quads.
Many brands list stroke lengths that are not accurate. Some also advertise high amplitude but do not have enough stall force. Without enough stall force, the gun slows down when you press it into your muscles. That means you do not get the depth the numbers suggest.
This review contains insights from testing about 70 massage guns. We measure amplitude with a digital caliper, from the fully pulled-in position to the fully extended position. Every model below meets its claimed stroke length and has enough stall force to make that depth usable. If deep muscle treatment is your main goal, we compared the models that maintain their depth best under heavy pressure in our deep-tissue massage gun comparison. If you want a broader overview of how these devices compare across power, noise, and portability, our full breakdown of the top massage guns explains how the leading models stack up across all the major categories.
Below are our top picks, followed by a simple guide to what amplitude really means.
We measure amplitude, stall force, and RPM in our testing to reflect real-world performance under load.
| Model | Stall Force | Amplitude | Max RPM | Best For | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theragun Pro | ~60lbs* | 16mm* | 2,450* | Premium power and features | Read full review |
| Theragun Prime | ~35lbs* | 16mm* | 2,400* | Depth without premium features | Read full review |
| Bob and Brad D6 Pro | ~60lbs* | 16mm* | 2,460* | Maximum depth at a lower price | Read full review |
| Opove Apex | ~45lbs* | 14.6mm* | 2,300* | Near-16mm depth on a budget | Read full review |
| Hypervolt 2 Pro | ~30-35lbs* | 14mm* | 2,700* | Higher speed over maximum depth | Read full review |
* = Measured in our testing
| Model | Stall Force | Amplitude | Best For | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theragun Mini (3rd Gen) | ~20 lbs* | 12mm* | Premium high amplitude mini | Read full review |
| Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini | ~20lbs* | 12mm* | Best value 12mm mini | Read full review |
| Ekrin Bantam | ~35lbs* | 10mm* | Strongest mini for its size | Read full review |
* = Measured in our testing
Massage gun brands often list stroke lengths that are inaccurate or measured differently. To verify the real numbers, we measured amplitude ourselves.
Each device was tested using digital calipers, measuring the distance between the fully retracted position and the fully extended position of the massage head. We also evaluated stall force by applying gradual pressure until the motor slowed or stopped.
This allowed us to identify devices that not only reach higher amplitude but also maintain that depth under real pressure. You can read more about our full methodology in how we test massage guns.
4.6
Why it stands out:
The Theragun Pro sets the benchmark for 16mm devices. In our testing, it maintained its depth under pressure on large muscle groups like glutes and hamstrings without slowing down. The rotating arm and built-in feedback tools also make it easier to apply consistent pressure across different areas.
Best for:
Premium deep tissue with guided feedback.
Read More: Our detailed Theragun Pro.
4.5
Why it stands out:
The Theragun Prime delivers the same 16mm stroke as the Pro in a simpler package. In our testing, it maintained solid depth under moderate pressure while being easier to use and more approachable overall. It removes advanced features like the rotating arm and force meter, but keeps the core performance that matters most.
Best for:
16mm depth without premium features.
Read More: Our detailed Theragun Prime.
4.7
Why it stands out:
The D6 Pro is one of the few non-Theragun devices that truly delivers 16mm performance. In our testing, it held its speed under pressure on large muscle groups, performing very similarly to higher-priced options. It skips premium features but delivers where it matters most.
Best for:
Maximum depth at a lower price.
Read More: Our in-depth Bob and Brad D6 Pro review.
4.6
Why it stands out:
The APEX sits just below the 16mm category but still delivers noticeable depth. In our testing, it handled moderate pressure well while staying quieter and more comfortable than most higher-output devices. It starts to slow under heavy load, but still performs well for most users.
Best for:
Near-maximum depth on a budget.
Read More: Our detailed Opove Apex review.
4.6
Why it stands out:
The Hypervolt 2 Pro takes a different approach, focusing more on speed than depth. In our testing, it felt more responsive and easier to manage at higher speeds, but didn’t hold up as well under heavy pressure. It works best for users who prefer a faster, lighter feel.
Best for:
Higher speed over maximum depth.
Read More: Our detailed Hypervolt Pro 2 review.
Mini massage guns are smaller and less powerful by design. In this size, 12mm is the highest amplitude available right now. Stall force still matters just as much. If portability is more important than stroke length, our guide to the best mini massage guns compares the smallest devices designed for travel and everyday recovery.
4.5
Why it stands out:
At 12mm, the Theragun Mini offers the most depth in this size category. In our testing, it worked well on smaller muscle groups and for quick recovery sessions. It doesn’t handle heavy pressure, but it’s far more likely to be used regularly.
Best for:
Maximum depth in a compact size.
Read More: Our detailed Theragun Mini (3rd Gen) review.
4.5
Why it stands out:
The Air 2 Mini delivers similar depth to the Theragun Mini at a lower price. In our testing, it performed very similarly across lighter recovery use, making it a strong value option for everyday use.
Best for:
12mm depth at a lower cost.
Read More: Our detailed Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini review.
4.9
Why it stands out:
The Bantam prioritises power over stroke length. In our testing, it maintained speed under pressure better than most minis, especially on larger muscle groups. While it has less depth, the added power makes it more effective in real use.
Best for:
Higher power in a compact size.
Read More: Our detailed Ekrin Bantam review.
Amplitude is how far the head moves in each stroke. We measure from fully pulled in to fully extended using a digital caliper. If you are comparing different types of massage guns and features, our complete guide to choosing the best massage gun explains how amplitude fits alongside other important specs.
A longer stroke usually feels deeper on large muscles like glutes and hamstrings, which is why 16mm devices are commonly used for deep tissue massage.
The difference between 15mm and 16mm is not noticeable in normal use.
If stall force is low, the gun slows down when you press it into your muscles. When that happens, the stroke effectively becomes shorter.
For example, a 13mm device with 56 lbs stall force can feel deeper than a 16mm device with only 30 lbs stall force. You need both stroke length and motor strength. If deep muscle treatment is your main goal, our comparison of massage guns built for deep tissue recovery looks at which models maintain their depth under heavy pressure.
For neck, shoulders, and smaller muscles, 16mm can feel too intense. In these areas, a 10mm to 13mm device with higher speed often works better.
Faster hits with moderate depth can improve blood flow and reduce tension without feeling too aggressive.
For most people who treat many muscle groups, a 13mm to 14mm device with strong stall force is the best overall choice.
For maximum amplitude with full features, the Theragun Pro is ideal. The Bob and Brad D6 Pro offers the best 16mm value, while the Opove APEX provides near 16mm performance at a lower price.
The Ekrin Kestrel strikes the best balance of depth and power. Among minis, the Theragun Mini and Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini excel in amplitude, while the Ekrin Bantam delivers true deep-tissue power.
In conclusion, we’ve included a short FAQ section addressing the most common questions, offering a clear and practical summary of the main insights from the article.
Is 16mm always better than 13mm?
Not always. On large muscles, 16mm can feel deeper. On smaller muscles, the difference is small. A shorter stroke with stronger stall force can sometimes perform better.
Do brands report amplitude accurately?
Often they do not. We measure every device ourselves. Some brands do not even list amplitude publicly.
Does 1mm really matter?
No. Most people cannot feel a 1mm difference. The jump from 12mm to 16mm is noticeable. Small differences within 1 or 2mm usually are not.
How much stall force do I need?
For large muscle groups, around 40 lbs or more is ideal. Below that, the gun will slow down if you press firmly into dense muscle.
Konrad A, Glashüttner C, Reiner M, Bernsteiner D, Tilp M. The acute effects of percussive massage treatment on ankle flexibility and performance. Journal of Sports Science & Medicine. 2020;19(4):690-694.
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.
April 18, 2024 Large update that includes a new massage gun recommendation, the Ekrin Kestrel. Also, a video of unboxing and tests has been added to recommended devices. (By: Greg)
November 12, 2023 Fresh photos of the Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini massager added. (By: Greg)
November 6, 2023 Large content update. We’ve enhanced various sections for clarity, revised our massager recommendations based on recent evaluations (removed Bitfinic, added Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini), and performed additional fact-checking. Plus: links optimized for navigation. (By: Greg)
September 13, 2023 Minor text and image edits for improved experience and readability. (By: Greg)
May 19, 2023 Added new photos from the tests we’ve done; updated with more information. (By: Luke)
January 14, 2023 Added Bitfinic mini to the list. (By: Luke)
November 25, 2022 Updated with Theragun Mini 2.0 (it was Mini 1.0 before). (By: Greg)
October 31, 2022 Updated with the Theragun Pro G5 specs. (By: Greg)
February 10, 2022 Replaced Opove M3 Pro MAX with the new Apex model. (By: Luke)
November 20, 2021 Removed Minirex due to shipping issues reported by customers. (By: Luke)
November 2, 2021 New device photos added. (By: Greg)
October 26, 2021 Replaced Hypervolt Plus with the new Hypervolt 2 Pro (By: Luke)
September 27, 2021 Fact-checked and reviewed for accuracy (By: Dr. Alex Stone, DPT, CSCS)
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Mario
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Hi Greg, thanks for another great review.
I have a very big doubt. I choose a gun with 16mm, and my budget is max 300$, so the choice is between Achedaway Pro and Bob and Brad D6 Pro.
The price of the two is very similar, but I can’t decide which one is better for me. If I look only at a subjective factor, aesthetically I prefer the Achedaway. If I chose it, what would I lose compared to the B&B D6?
Can you help me?
Thanks so much!
Hi Marco, thanks for reaching out!
The Achedaway Pro is a solid choice. It’s a bit bulky, but it’s a powerhouse for sure. The D6 Pro feels slightly more subtle and is a surprisingly good reproduction of Theragun Pro.
So, to answer your question, here’s the scoop on what you’d miss if you go with Achedaway Pro:
Performance-wise – both have the same amplitude and stall force, so they’re neck and neck here. It really comes down to what you fancy and how you plan to use it. I know it’s not a clear winner here, but they are close, and it’s your personal needs that must decide.
Feel free to read the reviews we have for both devices: the Achedaway Pro and the Bob and Brad D6 Pro. They may help. Take care!
Dear Greg, thank you for your outstanding reviews. Yet I’m overwhelmed. I have fibromyalgia, yet I’ve always been an athlete and work out strength training for days, stability, on of$ days and zone 2 cardio five days yet since incurring a few injuries to the inflamed IT band due to weaker glutes, I sense a need for deeper pulse to these larger muscles. I am on a tight budget, yet I want something that will do the job for the money. Can you help? Please simply recommend one or two options for my needs. Thank you
Hey, thanks for the comment. My recommendation – when it comes to the best value and deep percussion, the Bob and Brad D6 Pro is hard to beat. It’s almost on par with the Theragun Pro. If you’re looking for an even better price, the Opove Apex is a fantastic choice. It’s a solid massager with realy good attachments, and its amplitude is just 2mm less than the Theragun or D6. I hope this helps. Take care!
Need help can’t decide. Between theragun mini and ekrin 365 or bantam
Thanks for your comment. It’s definitely a tough decision, but I’m here to help. You’re comparing three distinct massage guns: the Theragun Mini is a top-tier mini massager with a 12mm amplitude – the highest in its category. The Ekrin 365 offers great value with a lifetime warranty, though it’s more of a vibrational device with a shorter amplitude. The Bantam is the smallest of the three but still packs decent power for its size, although it has the lowest amplitude.
If you’re prioritizing high amplitude, the Theragun Mini stands out among your options. However, I’d also recommend considering the Bob and Brad Air 2 Mini, a new massager that debuted two weeks ago. It matches the Theragun Mini in specs and is very reasonably priced. You can check out our review here for more details.
Thank you for this Greg! What do you think of Bob and Brad massagers? Have looked at the C2 and the T2 and saw they are only 10 mm in amplitude, and no information on stall weight. But I am mainly going to use it on my neck and shoulders to help w cervical radiculopathy, per your article it seems I might not need all that amplitude? thanks so much!
Hey Sun, thanks for the question. I’ll do my best to help out.
Bob and Brad make some really good massagers, they know their stuff. We’ve got both the C2 and the newer T2, and I’d definitely recommend the T2. It does indeed have a 10mm amplitude (we’ve even measured it to be slightly more) compared to the 8mm on the C2. Plus, it comes with a larger battery and is better built overall.
We have our T2 review here in which we’re currently comparing it to the C2. And you might also want to consider the Ekrin 365; it’s a solid alternative and comes with a lifetime warranty.
As for your needs, you’re right; you don’t need a massager with a high amplitude. Take care!