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Tom's Guide
18-07-2025
- Health
- Tom's Guide
Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Pro review
The Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Pro is one of the most expensive massage guns on the market. But does that mean it's also one of the best massage guns? Not exactly. Yes, the Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Pro is loaded with impressive specs: Bluetooth connectivity, an app full of massage routines, RPM adjustable from 1,700-2,700, and an impressive 180-minute battery life. However, impressive specs doesn't mean something is impressive in action. I found the Hypervolt 2 Pro much easier to use on someone else than myself thanks to the hefty 2.6 pound weight. The deep amplitude also means it's not recommended for those with weak or frail muscles. The Hypervolt 2 Pro is pro in name and use-case: this is a massage gun for serious athletes. This is not a casual gun for office workers or ad-hoc runners. Find out if this massage gun suits your needs in this Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Pro review. Price $349 / £329 Dimensions 8 x 2.5 x 10.4 inches Weight 2.6 pounds Speed 1,700-2,700 RPM Amplitude 14mm (estimated) Battery 180 minutes Colors Black Attachments 5 The Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Pro massage gun is pro in name and in price. It's a whopping $349 from Amazon U.S. and £329 on Amazon U.K.. This price makes the Hypervolt 2 Pro one of the priciest massage guns on the market. I've tested the $89 Bob and Brad M7 Mini Pro, which, when compared to the Hypervolt 2 Pro, is practically free. Bob and Brad's closest competitor to the Hypervolt 2 Pro is the $299 D6 Pro Plus, which has a 16mm amplitude compared to the Hypervolt 2 Pro's estimated 14mm. The Theragun Elite is the Hypervolt 2 Pro's closest competitor. The $399 massage gun has a lowest speed of 1,750RPM (50RPM faster than the Hypervolt 2 Pro), and a 16mm amplitude. The Theragun Elite, however, has a little screen you can adjust the RPM with, which gives it a more high-tech feel. I see no reason why the Hypervolt 2 Pro needs to be so expensive, other than its app connectivity. But I still don't think these premium features work hard enough to justify the near-$300 price increase from other options. The Hypervolt 2 Pro is considerably larger than alternative massage guns. The Theragun Elite has a 9-inch length, while the Hypervolt 2 Pro is 10 inches. In comparison, the more affordable massage guns on the market tend to be around 5 inches long. Whether you like this large size will depend on you. My boyfriend loved it, as the long handle meant he could reach all areas of his back. I struggled as it was simply too heavy for me to hold up and maneuver. The 2.6-pound weight meant the Hypervolt 2 Pro was tricky to hold up for long periods. When I was trying to massage my shoulders, I found my arm started to hurt before long. I found it much easier to massage someone else rather than myself, because I could use two hands, but I'll talk about that in the 'Performance' section later. Turning on the Hypervolt 2 Pro is easy: simply flick the switch on the bottom. The LED panel lights up green. You use the dial on the back of the barrel to change speed, and there are 5 speed levels. I found the top speed was too powerful for all muscle groups except quads and glutes. There are five attachments: flat, fork, bullet, cushion, and ball. I found the ball was best for everyday aches and pains. The bullet was almost painful. The fork was really good for traps and calves after a long day of hunching over a desk, so I'd recommend that for fellow sedentary workers — but only at the lowest speed. Unfortunately, there's no travel case, so if you want to take the Hypervolt 2 Pro out and about with you, you'll need to get your own bag. This has been a Hyperice issue for a while: Theraguns come with a hard carry case. As I mentioned briefly in the 'Design' section above, I found the Hypervolt 2 Pro much easier to use on someone else than on myself. I couldn't hold it up for long enough to massage my shoulders. As a result, I'd recommend this only if you're a) really strong, or b) have someone to massage you. I used it on myself after weightlifting, yoga and on my boyfriend after his various workouts. I found the lowest speed was enough for my aching muscles, and he agreed that it was enough for him too. He said it was maybe a little too hard sometimes, and wished the Hypervolt 2 Pro had an even lower setting. My main issue with the Hypervolt 2 Pro — other than the weight — is that it's a little too powerful. The slowest RPM is 1,700 (300RPM slower than the Bob and Brad M7 Plus Mini I use almost every day), but this was too powerful for my back, likely due to the deeper amplitude. For context, I have a very bony back (I'm trying, but building muscle is hard) that's mostly ribs and vertebrae. The Hypervolt 2 Pro just bounced off my bones instead of massaging what little muscle I do have. Even on my shoulders, which have a little more meat than my back, the massage gun pummeled me rather than massaging me. Have you ever skimmed a stone across a body of water? That's what it felt like across my back. Fortunately, my boyfriend has the complete opposite body type to me. He runs, lifts weights, and does fight training, so he works out considerably harder than me, and also has more muscle to massage. I used the Hypervolt 2 Pro on him after workouts. He thought the pressure was a little too much on very tender muscles, but at least it was actually able to massage him. I think this massage gun will suit people who are very muscled rather than people who are currently growing muscle. I found my favorite use-case for the Hypervolt 2 Pro was with the Hyperice app. I loved being able to sync up a massage routine with the gun and not have to change any features. However, the Pro gun is still $349 — that's $120 pricier than the base Hypervolt 2, which also has app compatibility. I adored the Hyperice app. Like other Hyperice massage guns, the Hypervolt 2 Pro uses the Hyperice app. This is a nice, clean app, with easily-navigable UI and a range of features. Connecting to the Hypervolt 2 Pro was easy. On the Hyperice app, I selected 'Hypervolt' from the list of compatible products, and it connected immediately. From there, I could choose from a vast range of massage routines. As I'd just done leg day at the gym, I chose the 19-minute leg routine. There are loads more options, including 'Nighttime relief', specialized routines like 'treating shin splints', and even 'NBA post game'. Here's a few screenshots of the routine in progress. The app tells you exactly which attachment to use, exactly where to massage, and changes the percussion intensity automatically (although you can do it manually too). The app controls the length of each massage routine, and reminds you when to change side. I think the Hyperice app is one of the best aspects of the Hypervolt 2 Pro, and the only feature that attempts to justify its $349 MSRP. If you really want a massage gun with app compatibility and automated massaging routines, the Hypervolt 2 Pro will perform that role excellently. For those on a more restrictive budget, the base Hypervolt 2 ($229 — not the Pro) also connects to the Hyperice app via Bluetooth. If you're a serious athlete and you want the best of the best massage guns, then the Hypervolt 2 Pro won't let you down. Just be wary that it's pretty heavy and costs an arm and a leg. If $349 is a little too steep for a massage gun, the Hyperice Go 2 is just $139 (but has no app connectivity), or the Hyperice Pro is $229. Both of these options have the same fantastic Hyperice construction and style. However, if money is no object, then the Hypervolt 2 Pro is a good option. Even if it was $50 cheaper, at $299, I would be more inclined to recommend it wholeheartedly. But for those out there who want the premium option regardless of price, the Hypervolt 2 Pro won't let you down.
Tom's Guide
11-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Tom's Guide
I'm a sleep tech tester — 5 Prime Day deals from $9 I'd snap up if I was sharing a dorm this semester
Shared dorms can be noisy, and you and your dorm buddies may not always have the same night light preferences or sleep schedules. So, heading back to school with a toolbox of effective sleep tech is key to getting quality rest between lectures, social events and finals. Top of your cart should be an affordable but reliably supportive mattress for college students. Then you can think about gadgets that will help you block out ambient light and noise to get the best possible sleep this year. It's the final day of Amazon Prime Day sleep deals and I've been shopping to bring you the last remaining offers on such gadgets. My team of sleep experts and I have tested them ourselves and can assure you they are worthy investments. If I was heading back to college this summer with a spare $10 to $50, here's what I'd buy... 1. Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs: was $27.95 now $16.95 at AmazonThere's no doubt you'll have at least one night this semester where you'll need to block out rowdy roomies to get to sleep. Our sleep editor Lauren used these earplugs when sleeping next door to a nightclub and found they were effective at masking loud music and revelers. The Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs are 39% off for Prime members now, cutting the cost to $16.95 — we think that's a fantastic deal considering they are super comfortable and reusable. User score: ★★★★ (based on 12,520+ reviews) 2. Musicozy Sleep Headphones: was $25.99 now $15.19 at AmazonThe Musicozy sleep headband is a two-in-one sleep gadget combining sleep headphones with a sleep mask to block out both light and noise. In short, it's a dorm-sharers dream. Our tester Ruth says the Musicozy's light masking is "exceptional" and surround sound is "immersive". It's still 42% off for the final day of Prime deals, so if you buy now you can get it for just $15.19 (was $25.99) — cha-ching! User score: ★★★★ (based on 23,300+ reviews) 3. COMLIFE Portable Handheld Misting Fan: was $19.99 now $9.49 at AmazonLet's be honest, sharing a dorm room can get stuffy and sometimes downright sweaty, so having a cooling sleep companion to hand is a wise move. This simple fan comes complete with a small water tank so you can mist yourself before bed to reach the best temperature for sleeping well. It's half price today at a bargain $9.49 (was $19.99) — now is the time to order to get it before the next heatwave. User score: ★★★★½ (based on 6,720+ reviews) 4. Bob and Brad eye massager: was $74.97 now $49.98 at AmazonThe Bob and Brad EyeOasis 2 Eye Massager is a digital eye mask that combines heat, pressure and acupressure to relieve stress and strained eyes. It does this while blocking out light so you drift off into a more restful sleep. Essentially it delivers dreamy eye relief after you've been staring at a laptop all day, powering through assignments. This is your last chance to bag 33% off this gadget, with the price at $49.98 (down from $74.97). It's more of a splurge than other sleep masks, but your mid-finals tired eyes will thank you for it. User score: ★★★★½ (based on 1,830+ reviews) 5. MyHalos sleep mask: was $12.99 now $10.39 at AmazonIf you prefer a reliable light-blocking sleep mask without the bells and whistles of the Musicozy headband or Bob and Brad's eye massager, this memory foam mask is a great choice. It's made with ultra-soft, breathable fabric and puts zero pressure on your eyes, so you can bag a comfortable night's sleep even if your dorm mate likes a night light. There's 20% off for the final day of Amazon Prime deals, so if you act fast you can grab it for under $11 — at that price it's a no-brainer. User score: ★★★★½ (based on 12,410+ reviews)
Tom's Guide
18-06-2025
- Health
- Tom's Guide
Neck pain from your 'silly little emails job'? Here's 3 things I do every day after work
Like many others, my job requires me to sit at a desk for eight hours a day. After a while, that takes a toll on your neck and shoulders. While my neck still hurts, it definitely huts less than it used to. I've compiled a list of my go-to activities that alleviate neck and shoulder pain here, including a heated massage gun, regular yoga routines, and which mattress I use. I asked Tom's Guide's Fitness Editor and qualified trainer Sam Hopes for extra tips, too. If, like me, your neck always hurts, why not check out my methods? Obviously if your back pain is severe, I would recommend visiting the doctor. However, for more mild desk-job neck pain, these could be easy fixes to add into your routine. I've had the Bob and Brad M7 Plus Mini massage gun for about a month now, and it's really helped me. I love the heated attachment because it soothes my painful traps without being too aggressive on them. I only use the lowest setting for my neck, shoulders, and upper back, otherwise it hurts! In my four-star review, I discuss exactly how I use it on my shoulders. I don't use the bullet or ball attachments most of the time, as I've found the heated tool is the quickest way to relieve my pain. I love this massage gun, purely because it's got a heated attachment. This is second-to-none when my back really hurts. Just make sure you keep it on speed 1, otherwise it'll be too strong and will start hurting. For those days where I'm really hurting, I also use Deep Heat, $11 on Amazon, for a little extra help. I would only use this after massaging though — definitely not before. I go to yoga classes at my local gym three times a week, but I still need to stretch my neck and shoulders after work every single day. This Yoga For Neck routine by YouTube instructor Adriene Mishler is the one I use for a super effective stretch. It's a 30-minute routine, but you don't have to do all of it to get a good stretch. Adriene starts with head rolls, which I find are great for ironing out the creases in my neck. After, she goes into puppy pose, which stretches the upper back instantly. Then, she teaches you how to do one of my favorite stretches: a shoulder twist. I find this stretch releases the tension in my shoulders like no other. While it hurts, it's definitely a good pain. Most of the time, I stop at around the 12-minute mark, but the entire routine is fantastic for helping with neck opening. If you have 30 minutes, I recommend it completely. I also found this 10 minute yoga routine that reduces neck pain, too! I asked Sam Hopes, Tom's Guide's Fitness Editor and personal trainer, for extra advice. She said this upper trap stretch is one of her favorite quick exercises for instant relief. Here's how you do it: I also go to the gym and lift weights. You can also use a resistance band to improve upper-back mobility. Remember, you need to strengthen your muscles as well as stretch them. Most of the best mattresses are incredibly expensive, especially the best mattresses for back pain. As I had to take budget into account when buying my new mattress, I wasn't able to splurge on something like at Saatva. Instead, I purchased the Nectar Classic Memory Foam mattress, which used to be our top memory foam mattress (until it got usurped by the Nectar Premium!). This mattress is oh-so comfy. It's firm without being too firm, and means that I never wake up in pain like I used to. Twin: $349 | Queen: $649 | King: $849 Nectar offers a 365-night trial, so if you don't like the mattress, you can return it, no questions asked. There's also a 10-year warranty, which I find incredibly relieving. I'm 6 months into using this mattress, and I still look forward to getting into bed just to feel its memory foam envelop me and relieve my back pain.
Tom's Guide
13-06-2025
- Health
- Tom's Guide
Bob and Brad M7 Plus Mini massage gun review: Super-powered, mini-sized
Although I love my job, I have to admit that sitting at a laptop for eight hours a day takes a toll on my neck. My post-work yoga classes help a little, but my upper back is usually suffering by the end of the week. Some of the best massage guns have unique features like heat and ice tools, and the Bob and Brad M7 Plus Mini is one of them. It comes with five attachments, one of which is a heat tool capable of reaching 107°F (42°C). The M7 Plus Mini is a pretty powerful device, with a maximum amplitude of 9mm and a top RPM of 3,000. I tested this massage gun for three weeks on myself and my boyfriend, who is an avid runner and weightlifter. While the M7 Plus Mini proved a little too powerful on some occasions, it could be the perfect tool for those with super tight muscles. Find out the full story in this Bob and Brad M7 Plus Mini massage gun review. Price $89 / £69 Dimensions 5.3 x 3.35 x 1.9 inches Weight 14 ounces Speed 2,000 RPM - 3,000 RPM Amplitude 9mm Battery USB-C rechargeable, 1 hour on max speed Colors Black Attachments Heat/blue light head, Ball head, U-shaped head, Air Cushion head, Bullet head The Bob and Brad M7 Plus Mini massage gun is $89 from Amazon U.S. and £69 from Amazon U.K. This $89/£69 price places it at the cheaper end of Bob and Brad's line. At the other end of the spectrum is the $299 Bob and Brad D6 Pro Plus, which has a 16mm amplitude compared to the M7 Plus Mini's 9mm. Alternatively, the cheapest massage gun from Bob and Brad is the $69 Q2 Max, which has a metal head and 7mm amplitude. Seeing as the M7 Plus Mini is often on sale for around $59, I think if you can snag this product for that price, then it's a fantastic deal. The M7 Plus Mini is powerful and versatile; I especially made use of the heated head on my stiff neck. Well, it almost goes without saying that the M7 Plus Mini is going to be lightweight — the clue is quite literally in the name. Even so, this massage gun is markedly lighter than alternatives. The $299 D6 Pro Plus is a pretty hefty 44 ounces and the $69 Q2 Max is 15 ounces, which makes the M7 Plus Mini light, considering alternatives. The Hyperice Hypervolt Go 2 ($149) is 24 ounces, although it has much better battery life of 180 minutes compared to the M7 Mini Plus's 60 minutes, so I guess that's the tradeoff. Thanks to its low weight of 14 ounces, the M7 Plus Mini is easy to handle and maneuver. I was able to massage my shoulders without needing to twist around uncomfortably. When I was using the massage gun on my boyfriend's back, I was able to hold it up for long periods without tiring. You turn the massage gun on with a small sunken button on the main cylinder of the gun itself. The button needs to be held down for two seconds to be turned on and off, which I found quite annoying. I'd rather it be turned on by a double press or a single press, and then turned off with a double press. Unlike the super-cheap unbranded massage gun I'd been using before, cycling through the speed settings is circular, so it doesn't turn off when you reach the highest speed. This means it's easy to flit between settings depending on muscle soreness. I'll discuss the functionality of all the heads in the 'Performance' section below, but here's a quick run down: Heat/blue light head, Ball head, U-shaped head, Air Cushion head, Bullet head. I mostly used the ball head for my shoulders and the heat head for the really sore muscles. As the M7 Plus Mini's slowest speed is 2,000 RPM, it's still pretty intense even at its weakest. I found the M7 Plus Mini to be most comfortable when it was running out of battery. Maybe I just have really sensitive muscles. The M7 Plus Mini goes up to 3,000 RPM, which is intense. This was too much for both my boyfriend and me, but could be good for runners or larger muscles, like the quads or biceps. I found the air cushion head to be more tolerable at higher speeds, as it's kind of like a bellow/ball combination. There wasn't too much pressure on the surface as it's made of a bouncy material. Quite conveniently for me (but not for him), my boyfriend pulled a muscle in his shoulder about halfway through my testing period. This meant I could actually put the massage gun to work on tender muscles. For this, I started with the heat head to warm up the area. Note: You have to charge the heat head separately from the massage gun itself. It has a USB-C port for charging. After warming up the area with the heat head, I used the ball head over the sore area. I considered using the bullet head, but I thought it would be too painful, as it's a concentrated surface area and therefore more intense. This continued for about five days, and then I started using the bullet head on the sore area. My boyfriend reported that this was too intense on the muscle, even on the weakest setting and resorted to his old faithful: a tennis ball and a wall (where you put the ball against the sore muscle and stand against a wall, therefore releasing the tension). The lowest power is 2,000 RPM, which is 250 RPM faster than the Theragun Mini's weakest speed of 1,750 RPM. While it's a good thing that the M7 Plus Mini is powerful, I think it should have a wider range. Having a max RPM of 3,000 is fantastic for people who want to be pummelled by a massage gun, but I think it's worth having a very weak setting for those a little more sore or frail than others. The $399 Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Pro has a lowest speed of 1,700 and a max amplitude of 14mm, so this could be a better option for those requiring a softer speed for sore muscles. However, it's incredibly expensive at over $300 pricier than the M7 Plus Mini. While this isn't relevant to performance in a fitness way, I'm just going to briefly mention the heat head/blue light head. Bob and Brad claim that the blue light attachment can be used for 'skin whitening.' Ethics aside, the M7 Plus Mini is a fitness-oriented product designed by physiotherapists, not a skincare-focused product designed by dermatologists. As a result, I'd be wary of using the blue light attachment for skincare. Whether the M7 Plus Mini is for you depends on, well, you. For me, I found the lowest speed to be a little too powerful on my traps and rhomboid major (the two places I suffer from aches due to hunching over my laptop for 40 hours a week). However, when my boyfriend was uninjured, he found the weakest speed fine for ironing out muscle pain after weightlifting and running. My favorite attachment was the heat head, and I found myself using this more than any other head. I think this is a very well-priced massage gun for its power, but if you're particularly susceptible to painful muscles, I think a product with a larger speed range would be better. For that purpose, I'd recommend the Bob and Brad Q2 Max or the Theragun Mini. For most people, though, the M7 Plus Mini is a perfect first massage gun.
