Gary Tanchak, DC, is a Chiropractor who takes a comprehensive approach to spinal and extremity injuries. He takes the entire body’s biomechanics and lifestyle into account when addressing injury to help rid the patient of their pain and keep it from returning in the future. Dr. Tanchak addresses the patient’s injuries through a combination of passive modalities, such as spinal and extremity manipulations, Active Release Technique, and non-surgical spinal decompression.
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The new generation of entry-level muscle massagers from Hyperice, the Hypervolt 2, has arrived with some changes on board. Are they significant? Is it a revolution or just an evolution? Does this device set a new standard for the mid-tier massage gun category?
Our Hypervolt 2 review will share our findings and observations from using this massager (plus spec verification!). What do we like about it? And what would we change (if Hyperice allowed us)?
In the end, we’ll address whether it’s worth the price now, or if there are better options available for similar price.
Key Takeaways
The superior overall quality; the premium feel and cool color aesthetic of the Hypervolt 2 truly set it apart (just check the color-matched attachments).
On the performance front, the increased amplitude is a welcome improvement, yet the lower stall force left a bit to be desired.
In these days, the missing USB-C charging feature feels like a significant oversight.
The initial price point was quite steep. Currently, it has dropped to a more reasonable level (around $200), yet at this price, there are better massage guns available, such as the Ekrin 365 Why? Read on to find out.
In early September 2021, Hyperice announced that they were morphing into a “holistic high-performance wellness brand.” At this occasion, they also decided to changed the logo, now the slanted “H” letter (which, by the way, looks very similar to the new Formula 1 logo, and it so happens that F1 is sponsored by the archrival Therabody. A fun coincidence, no?).
New Hyperice logo.
They are finally going the Therabody (Theragun) route. The event was marked by unveiling their latest massage guns – Hypervolt 2 as the successor to the original silver Hypervolt, and Hypervolt 2 Pro as the successor to Hypervolt Plus.
This is probably good timing for us here because we recently (around June) did a review of the original Hypervolt. In that review, we concluded that Hypervolt hadn’t done much to upgrade their original device. We noted the outdated hardware that Hypervolt was still insisting on even as other brands were doing something new.
So in this post, we’ll take a look at their new Hypervolt 2 massage gun and find out whether it’s simply a face-lift or a more serious upgrade. We’ll also compare it to the original and see which one has better performance aspects.
Hypervolt 2 Video Review
But, before you dive into our detailed review below, take a peek at our hands-on video. We’re unboxing it, exploring its attachments, testing the speeds, and demonstrating the stall force. You’ll also get a quick guide on how to charge it.
It’s a neat visual companion to all the details we’ve written out for you below. So hit play and enjoy!
Hypervolt 2 Specifications (*values measured by us for verification)
First Impressions and Build Quality
Still no carrying case even with the new-look Hyperice. What a bummer! We guess we’ll go straight to the device and find out what we have.
It looks different (at least in color). You get the sense that Hyperice was trying to distinguish it from the old device – which is still on sale.
This new device is grey (not silver). Hyperice is calling it “Slate Grey.” It’s slated grey everywhere. Even the attachments are the same color.
For some, this may look dull, but we’re guessing it’s not such a big deal for an entry-level device. Theragun had the same bland appearance for their Prime.
We will give them that – for once, they have something different.
The control panel has also been redesigned to include a control button, the 3 speed LEDs, 3 more LEDs just below the main button for the pressure sensor, and a Bluetooth connection indicator. There is also a new logo on the side (a slanted “H”) perhaps an indication of the different approach taken by the company.
When you hold the device for the first time, it feels lighter than the original (and perhaps smaller). The handle is the same (90 degrees, T-shape), but there are some changes.
Fortunately for us and many others who had asked for a different handle configuration, our concerns have somewhat been addressed here. We’ll talk more about the handle in the ergonomics section. For now we’ll mention that we like that it’s rubberized, even though the rest of the body is plastic. It’s top-quality plastic as well.
All new Hypervolt 2
As we have already said, there’s only one button to control everything from turning the device on to changing the speed gears. The back panel is redesigned – it’s now rounded, looks simple and yet sleeker than before. There isn’t a main switch at the bottom of the handle anymore.
How to use the device:
Press and hold the power button for at least 3 seconds to turn it on.
Press the button again to make it start percussing.
Subsequent presses of the button change speed.
Press and hold the power button again for at least 3 seconds to turn it off.
Other notable things that haven’t changed much include the LED ring at the base of the handle. It works the same way as on the previous device – red means the battery’s low, while green means the battery is fully charged.
The pressure sensor is also here, indicated by the 3 LEDs that glow up when you press the device on your body (more on that later).
Did we mention there is no carrying case still? There’s a pouch to store the attachments and that’s it.
There is a wall charger with different international plugs included. Hyperice kept their tradition of including a bunch of cards with all their devices. Some of them include: a quick-start guide, attachments tips, app information, customer service tips, and an instructional manual.
Hypervolt 2: Here is what’s included in the package.
Attachments
There are 5 attachments included with this new device – great variety as always with Hypervolts. Apart from being the same color as the device, there’s nothing new to them.
The Flat head: Used to massage large muscle groups, great for a full body massage.
The Ball head: The universal massage head used to massage large muscles as well and great for a full body massage as well. If the flat head is too aggressive, the ball head is the go-to attachment.
The Fork head: Used mainly on the spine and neck area but athletes love using it on their calves and Achilles.
The Cushion head: This one is a flat head variation with a softer touch. It’s used on tender and bony areas.
The Bullet head: Used on trigger point areas. It’s a great attachment to treat plantar fasciitis. You can also use it if you want an intensive massage.
Hypervolt 2 attachments are the same color as the device.
Hypervolt attachments have always been on the “hard material” side compared to Theragun’s soft heads.
In this one, the Flat, Bullet, and Fork attachments are all hard plastic except the Ball head, which has a slight give to it, and the Cushion head, which is reasonably soft.
The mechanism for inserting and removing the attachments is “Push and Pull” except for the Fork attachment which has to be aligned before inserting to prevent it from spinning around.
That said, we have no concerns here. We would’ve loved a Supersoft attachment like in Theragun, but we know that Theragun has it patented. Something similar wouldn’t hurt though, would it?
Heated Head Attachment
Recently, Hypervolt unveiled a heated attachment that pairs well with all Hypervolt massagers, including the Hypervolt 2.
While we haven’t had the opportunity to test it personally, we’re offering our initial impressions based on the information found on Hypervolt’s website and the latest press releases.
Our Thoughts
The attachment is the classic flat head design but is thicker to house the battery and the necessary electronics for its operation.
It’s good to see that this attachment fits all Hypervolt massagers, not only Hypervolt 2.
With the heating and power mechanisms enclosed within the attachment, there’s no need for extra connections to the massager body (like those of Urikar or Aura Revive).
It heats up to 120°F, edging slightly above the Urikar Pro 2’s 113°F, a detail worth noting for those desiring that extra warmth in their massages.
At 0.22lbs, this attachment is a bit heavier than the usual heads, but we hope it has no impact on the massager’s balance. We’ll delve into this once it arrives.
The sole available color of black may not resonate with owners of the gray Hypervolt 2, a minor design hiccup for some.
Priced at $59, it might appear costly for a single attachment. Yet, considering it almost as a standalone device (with its own battery and controls), plus the prospective benefits, it could be a nice addon, at least for some of you.
We plan to get this attachment as soon as it’s back in stock, and will provide an updated here. Stay tuned!
The Hypervolt 2 is smaller than the previous full-sized Hypervolts (Silver Hypervolt and Hypervolt Plus). It measures 7.5 x 2.5 x 9.5 (inches). It’s noticeably smaller than the new Hypervolt Pro which has a slightly larger motor housing and an even longer handle.
We love that the weight has gone down from what we were used to with the previous device. From 2.5lbs with the previous silver gun, this one now only weighs 1.8lbs.
The device feels well balanced since most of the weight is in the handle.
Ergonomics
The most noticeable change, and one we couldn’t wait to talk about, is in the handle. It’s now slimmer and has an all new shape. Instead of round, it’s now oval or what Hyperice calls the “Pill shaped grip.”
But we’ve seen a handle like this before from devices such as Bob and Brad C2, Naipo massage gun, and Renpho R3.
The handle is rubberized and holds really well. Those who have smaller hands (especially female customers) will appreciate this modification.
We’re just disappointed that the vertical handle remains the same even in this new device. We were hoping for something else other than the generic T-shape configuration. This puts a strain on the wrist, especially during a long massage session.
When they made Hypervolt Go with a slanted handle, we were hoping that meant a new direction taken for future iterations of their devices. A tilted handle offers a more natural grip.
We also think the handle should’ve been made a little longer for an extended reach (when you want to massage the lower back). The same thing Ekrin did with their new 365 massage gun.
Overall we’re happy that Hypervolt at least addressed some concerns over the ergonomics of their guns. This new gun is lighter, slimmer, and stable. However, we wish they would’ve done even more. We’ll just have to wait and see what the future holds.
What we have in hand is still the same old generic T-shape – but with an improved handle.
Performance
In performance, we focus on 3 key areas: amplitude, stall force, and percussions. In our review of the previous Hypervolt we noted how the amplitude was low and how it felt like a vibrational device.
But what about this new device? Has the amplitude been improved?
Amplitude
Also known as the stroke length, the amplitude is the distance the massage gun head travels as it percusses. It determines how deep a massage you can get.
We have always never seen Hyperice clearly state out the amplitude of any of their devices. We’ve always had to do the measuring ourselves. That hasn’t changed yet.
Our measurement gave us 12mm on this device. That is a slight improvement from the previous device (it has a 10mm amplitude). This means that the new Hypervolt device is a proper percussive device.
Here we measure the Hypervolt 2 amplitude. The 12mm is a much welcomed change (20% increase vs. the previous generation Hypervolt).
From the first few sessions we had with it we can say it feels good on the skin, percusses well and you can definitely feel the punches – they’re harder than what we experienced with that first device.
They are not as strong as what you’d have with a 14 or 16mm amplitude gun, but 12mm is what we like to call a ‘sweet spot“; not too intensive, but not too vibrational either.
That said, from our experience, with a 12mm stroke length, deep tissue massage is possible even on large muscles. However, the device has to be paired with enough stall force. Let’s see how much stall force the Hypervolt 2 massage gun has.
Stall Force
Stall force is the amount of pressure that a massage gun’s motor can withstand without stalling.
Hyperice isn’t known for making massage guns with solid motors. In fact, their first device had a mere 35lbs. of stall force. They did make the Hypervolt Plus a bit stronger (about 45lbs.) but incredibly weakened their Hypervolt Go device.
But what about this new Hypervolt 2 device?
Well, same old, same old. In fact, this is the biggest bummer thus far in our review. They don’t disclose how much pressure this device can withstand, but it wasn’t hard to guess how much stall force this device has after testing against other devices.
In our opinion, and by comparison with other devices, Hypervolt 2 doesn’t seem to have more than 25lbs. of stall force – which is incredibly low if the market standards are anything to go by. Even at the highest speed, this device stalls rather easily – almost instantaneously when pressure is applied, especially on the first two speeds.
We can’t tell for sure whether the motor information (60 Watt same as the old device) isn’t correct or whether this new device has been compromised somehow. However, we expected this new device to offer a bit more power.
With an amplitude that we would consider a “sweet spot,” we hoped for a bit more stall force to make this a proper percussive device. Unfortunately that is not the case.
But do you really need a lot of stall force?
Well, it depends on what you are looking for in a massage gun. This gun can still be useful if you don’t apply a lot of pressure as you float it over your muscles. It will do a good job if you just want a quick warm-up (like before your running unit) or when you are treating your neck at your desk, or just to get the blood flowing into the muscles. It can work on smaller muscle groups like the neck area, shoulders, feet, and forearms.
However, you might not be able to get a deep massage with this device. It may also not be good enough for you if you have a lot of muscles. You may not get a deep penetrative massage on your quads, glutes, or pecs.
It’s the same 3 speed levels as the previous Hypervolt, but there are changes to the percussion range and maximum hits per minute. The 3 speed levels are 2000rpm, 2350rpm, and 2700rpm.
With 2700rpm as the maximum hits per minute the intensity has gone down by at least 500rpm (the previous gun had up to 3200rpm). But this modification may be due to the slightly increased amplitude – we see this with a lot of other guns from different brands; Theragun is a good example.
But we have also seen massage gun brands that make long amplitudes but still keep the intensity high. Ekrin is a good example. Despite their full-sized devices (B37 and B37s) having 12mm amplitude (sweet spot), the intensity is always at 3200rpm (highest speed). Achedaway Pro is another good example of a device with a long amplitude but with more than enough hits per minute (2800rpm).
That said, we are not bashing the 2700rpm maximum; we’re just noting that it’s nothing special. You’ll still enjoy the massage.
Our Take on Performance
We had hoped for improved performance with this new Hypervolt device, but unfortunately, that is not the case, at least not in all aspects.
Yes, we love that the amplitude has gone up by about 20% but without proper stall force, it just doesn’t feel like it’s used to its fullest potential. Sad to say but performance wise, it feels like some of those cheap no-name devices from Amazon that are underpowered.
Hypervolt may get away with the fact that it doesn’t really have to be strong because it’s an entry-level device. But even so, those who pay attention to power have the right to be a bit disappointed with this, well, downgrade.
Pressure Sensor
The pressure sensor is still here, indicated by the 3-level LEDs below the main control button. It’s a good thing to have on any device because you can monitor how much pressure you apply to any muscle.
But here, it’s not really a big deal because the pressure sensor is pretty much obsolete without enough stall force. But we guess it is better to have one than not have one, so we’ll take it.
Another thing is that the pressure sensor is the same as the one in the old device. We have seen pressure sensors done better by other brands – Theragun Elite or Pro and Ekrin 365 (whitch we believe is the best alternative to this Hypervolt 2) or B37S.
The pressure sensor is indicated by the 3-level LEDs below the main control button.
Noise
Hyperice has always kept its devices hushed and we have noted this in many of our posts. The Hypervolt 2 is still a quiet device. It’s just a tad louder than the previous generation of guns.
We’re guessing it’s because of the increased amplitude – tends to increase the rattling. You should expect 53-54dB on lower speed levels and at least 63-64dB at the highest speed. These are similar figures as other 12mm amplitude massage guns.
In practice, it doesn’t disturb the normal conversation, and there may be no need to increase the TV volume when using the device.
Battery
It’s a rechargeable lithium-ion 23V battery. They say it can go for at least 3 hours before you have to charge it again. Realistically, however, if you apply pressure and use it at higher speeds, it should last for about 2 hours.
That is okay, in our opinion, because if you have 10-minute sessions per day, the battery charge should last a few days.
Still we have to mention that other brands (Ekrin) promise 4-6 hours on battery. But maybe it’s a trade-off they made to reduce the weight of the device.
The biggest change is that the battery on this new device is no longer removable. Perhaps they have done this to distinguish between the entry-level Hypervolt 2 and the professional-grade Hypervolt Pro.
If you were hoping for a first full-sized Hypervolt with a USB-C charger, you might have to wait a bit longer. The charger for this new device is still a wall charger. We like that they have included international plugs.
An LED ring at the bottom of the handle indicates a battery charge state. Unfortunately, still no USB-C as a charging port.
Bluetooth
This new Hypervolt 2 is Bluetooth enabled – they kept this feature, and we love it! You can connect your device to the Hyperice app for guided workouts where the app can take control of the device.
We did an in-depth description of the app in our earlier generation Hypervolt reviews. But it suffices to say that the Hyperice app is a convenient way to learn how to operate the device and see how professional athletes use Hypervolts on themselves.
So far, what we can tell from our interaction with the new Hypervolt 2 massage gun is that it was meant to be an introductory device.
There are clear differences between this device and the more advanced Hypervolt Pro. Unlike what we saw with the previous generation of Hypervolt, which was made for athletes, physiotherapists, and chiropractors, this new device is meant for personal use.
Another thing that we can say is that this device is made for women and smaller people – people who aren’t as muscular and don’t need an aggressive massage gun.
Since the first adopters of the earlier Hypervolt were mostly NBA players, the bulky size and the added weight wasn’t much of a problem.
In Hypervolt 2, a number of things have changed – perhaps for the better if you fall into the category that prefers a lighter, more compact, and easier-to-hold massage gun.
Elderly folks will also benefit from this massage gun.
In our opinion, Hypervolt 2 is meant for personal use.
But is it Worth a Buy?
Well, we know for sure that it is a high-quality product from a premium brand that knows everything about sports and recovery.
But is it really worth the money?
The initial price tag of $299 was hefty and we are sure it wasn’t worth it then – primarily due to its weak performance. But things have changed and now, with a price drop of about 30% (check current price here), it’s more accessible.
Yet still, if you prefer an aggressive massage or desire better performance aspects, the Hypervolt 2 may not offer the best value for your money. There are better alternatives available for this amount, some even come with a lifetime warranty (like Ekrin, more on that in a second).
Also, because it doesn’t have a removable battery like the older Hypervolt, or the new Hypervolt 2 Pro, it may not be a good choice for physiotherapists and chiropractors.
Hypervolt 2 vs. Hypervolt 1 – Head-to-Head
New Hypervolt 2 vs. Hypervolt 1
TIP For insights on the Hypervolt 2’s comparison with other Hypervolt models, and our thoughts on the best choice than, refer to our detailed Hypervolt comparison post.
We have talked about most of the Hypervolt 2 vs Hypervolt 1 differences in different sections above, so here let’s list them altogether:
Similarities:
T-shaped design with a vertical handle
3 speeds
3-level pressure sensor
Bluetooth and Hyperice app compatibility
same attachments (5)
What Hypervolt 2 has that Hypervolt 1 doesn’t:
Higher amplitude (12mm vs 10mm)
Lower weight (1.8 vs 2.5 lbs)
Slimmer, oval handle (easier to hold)
More compact size (shorter handle, width)
Better time on battery (advertised 3 hours vs 2 hours)
Redesigned control panel (mostly comes down to aesthetics)
Slate gray color (instead of chrome/silver)
Where Hypervolt 1 still beats Hypervolt 2:
Much more stall force (est. 35 lbs vs only mid 20’s in Hypervolt 2)
Better max. percussions (3200 vs 2700 in Hypervolt 2)
Battery in Hypervolt 1 is removable, not in Hypervolt 2
Longer handle for extended reach
Tad quieter (likely due to lower amplitude)
Both lack:
Carrying case
USB-C charging
Longer warranty (just 1 year)
New Hypervolt 2 vs. old Hypervolt 1: side by side in our hands.
If not Hypervolt 2 then What?
This Hypervolt 2 review would not be complete without exploring of what we think are viable alternatives for those who look for something more affordable, want more power but don’t necessarily need the Bluetooth connectivity.
Ekrin 365
Ekrin 365
This is also a newly released massage gun from Ekrin Athletics. We think it’s the best alternative to Hypervolt 2 because it has everything that is missing Hyperice’s new gun.
For starters, this gun too has been designed to be compact, light, and ergonomically superb – it’s even better.
It features an angled handle for a more natural grip. The handle is longer (up to 6 inches) than the one on Hypervolt 2. This means you can easily massage your lower back with this massage gun.
Another thing is the handle circumference. Ekrin responded to complaints about the large handles on previous guns with a much thinner handle – for people with small hands. It’s also light – just 1.7lbs.
Take a look as we compare the Hypervolt 2 and Ekrin 365 side by side.
In terms of power, Ekrin 365 has more to offer than the Hypervolt 2 ever will. Even though the amplitude is the same 12mm, the 40lbs. of stall force makes it a perfect percussion massager for personal use and more. You can press it hard against the muscle and it won’t stall easily.
It also revs up to 3200 hits per minute, with a percussion range of 2000-3200rpm across 5 speeds. You get more intensity with this gun than you can ever get with Hypervolt 2 (500 more hits per minute).
Ekrin included a pressure sensor on this latest device. What’s more, it actually feels better executed than what is on the Hypervolt 2.
The battery is pretty good too – capable of 5 hours of straight massage with a single charge. You also won’t have to worry about the noise levels because it’s hushed! It charges via USB for convenience – no need for a dedicated charger. It comes with 4 attachments and a carrying case.
You get a lifetime warranty if you buy this device – just like every other Ekrin device. Ekrin also offers superb customer support.
You can get it at $179.99 or you use our MGA20 coupon and buy it for only $143.99 – a sweet 20% discount. This is still significantly less than the Hypervolt 2’s price, for a device with better performance and a lifetime warranty.
More Info Read our in-depth Ekrin 365 review to learn more about it.
Bob and Brad x6 Pro
Bob and Brad X6 Pro
If you want more stall force than what Hypervolt 2 offers, then this is a worthy alternative.
The only thing that Hypervolt 2 has over this newly released Bob and Brad massage gun is the stroke length – instead 12mm, this one has 10mm.
Even so, with 40lbs. worth of stall force, it’s a decent alternative. It may not hit as deep, but when you need to put some pressure on your muscles, this one will not stall as easily as the Hypervolt 2.
Ekrin 365 still does a better job with a better head travel and decent stall force, but this one isn’t too far off either.
It weighs just 1.9 pounds, which is more less the same as the Hypervolt 2. It has the same handle configuration as the Hypervolt 2 and the ergonomics are similar.
X6 Pro’s metal attachment for hot & cold massage therapy.
However, it’s better equipped with a nice carrying case. Bob and Brad included 5 awesome attachments and made one a bit special. Instead of going with a generic flat attachment, they chose to include a metallic one that can be heated or frozen for a hot or cold massage.
The battery capacity is standard and charges pretty fast. The X6 Pro will also be quieter than Hypervolt 2.
It costs less than Hypervolt 2 and comes with the same 1-year warranty. Check it at Amazon here.
As we end our Hypervolt 2 review, we hope you have been well educated about Hyperice’s new device.
We believe it’s a decent entry-level massage gun that is best for personal use. It’s designed with women and people with small hands in mind. We like the improved ergonomics from what the previous Hypervolt had, the reduced weight, and, the slightly improved amplitude.
However, we have our reservations about the low stall force. Even though the non-removable battery isn’t much of an issue, we still believe the older device was more versatile with this feature.
Overall, we are not complaining too much, but we expected much more from what is supposed to be the successor of the previous massage gun.
Our Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Rating
Quality
Effectiveness
Usability
Accessories
Price Value
3.5
Summary
The Hypervolt 2 is a nice entry-level massage gun from a premium brand. It has improved ergonomics, reduced weight and a much slimmer handle, all of which will be appreciated by smaller people. The amplitude has improved too, but the stall force is a bit disappointing. We think that at this price point there are some other options worth checking out.
Sending
User Review
3.73
(11 votes)
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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.
February 14, 2024 Some content changes for better readability; internal and external linking corrections for better navigation. (Author: Luke)
September 28, 2023 Updated information on the Heated Head Attachment has been included to reflect the recent release from Hypervolt. Additionally, price information has been updated and text corrections have been made. (Author: Luke)
June 116, 2023 Added our own video review of the Hypervolt 2, showing you the unboxing, attachment overview, speed tests, stall force tests, and the charging process. Also made minor editorial changes throughout the post for better clarity and readability. (Author: Greg)
Published on:
•
Written by:
Luke Deszczulka
Luke Deszczulka
Hi! I'm Luke, a Biomedical Engineer with a passion for sports. I'm a lead reviewer for massage guns and wellness tech products at Massage Gun Advice. Alongside a dedicated Experts Board, I ensures each review is the result of thorough testing, in-depth research, and rigorous fact-checking, providing our readers with reliable and comprehensive insights.
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