Ekrin B37S vs Kestrel: Which Premium Massage Gun Has Better Value?
Naila Syifa
Updated December 2024
The B37S and Kestrel are considered the higher-end options in the Ekrin massage gun lineup, both retailing at US$329.99 and US$349.99 respectively. The price gap is very small, making it confusing to decide which one offers better value for the money.
In this comparison, we'll delve into the key differences between the two to help you determine which one is the better investment.
Key Takeaways
With 5 speed levels in 2000-3200 RPM range, Ekrin B37S focuses more on higher-intensity massages, while the Kestrel is more versatile with 6 speed levels in a wider 1800-3500 RPM range. Kestrel also has a higher 13 mm amplitude compared to B37S' 12 mm. In terms of interface, both have their own advantages, with the B37S offering a force meter and the Kestrel featuring a more convenient scroll wheel speed control.
Ekrin B37S
Premium Features
✓ 15° Angled Handle
✓ 5 Speeds with Variable Frequency
✓ 6 Locking Attachments
✓ Reactive Force Sensor
Ekrin Kestrel
Most Powerful
✓ 13 mm Amplitude
✓ 6 Speeds with Scroll Wheel
✓ 6 Locking Attachments
✓ Textured Grip
Design & Controls
Ekrin B37S
The B37S and Kestrel both feature Ekrin's distinctive T-shaped massage gun design with a 15° angled handle, which allows for improved ergonomics and better reach during use.
One very visible design difference between the two is the color. Ekrin B37S is only available in deep blue finish, while the Kestrel comes in black and white/green color options.
Kestrel also features a textured grip as opposed to the smooth handle of the B37S, giving it a more comfortable and secure hold during use.
Except for the color and grip design, both massage guns look very similar at a glance. However, when you look more closely at the control interface on top of the handle, they have quite the differences.
Ekrin Kestrel
Ekrin B37S features a single button that controls the speed level and turns the device on and off, two sets of indicators for speed settings and battery, and a ring-like Reactive Force Sensor that glows blue to indicate pressure level.
The last feature is what mainly gives the B37S an advantage over Kestrel in terms of design. Reactive Force Sensor is similar to what we typically know as a force meter, letting us know how much pressure we're applying during use so we can optimize the massage to our needs and preferences.
Ekrin Kestrel lacks such a force meter, but the control interface features a scroll wheel instead of a button. Scrolling is more convenient for speed adjustment as we don't need to press the button repeatedly to cycle through the speed settings. There are also indicator lights to display the current speed level and remaining battery.
In conclusion, the B37S is more informative with its Reactive Force Sensor, while the Kestrel offers a more convenient speed control interface.
Attachments
Ekrin B37S
Both the B37S and Kestrel offer 6 locking attachments. "Locking" means they lock securely into place by twisting the attachment clockwise rather than simply pushing it on. However, only 5 attachment heads are shared between the two models, with the sixth attachment being unique to each gun.
Common attachments include flat for overall use, bullet for pinpoint treatment, round (silicone) for low-impact massages, fork for spine and neck, and cone for tender and bony areas.
The unique sixth attachment for the Ekrin B37S is the round (foam), which is designed for targeting large muscle groups, while the unique attachment for the Kestrel is the air cushion, which provides softer massage for sensitive areas.
Performance
Ekrin Kestrel
Ekrin B37S and Kestrel deliver the same 56 lbs stall force and use the same Professional Grade Level 4 Brushless Motor, currently the most powerful motor in the Ekrin massage gun lineup.
However, the Kestrel offers a slightly higher amplitude, reaching deeper down into the muscle tissue as deep as 13 mm, compared to the Ekrin B37S with a 12 mm amplitude. This is a minor difference that may not be so noticeable during use.
What's more significant is that the Kestrel offers a wider range of speed settings, with 6 built-in speeds ranging from 1,800 RPM to 3,500 RPM, while the B37S has fewer 5 speed levels in a more limited range of 2,000 RPM to 3,000 RPM.
Despite having only 5 built-in speed levels, the 5th speed setting on the B37S is unique. It is known as Variable Frequency Speed, which dynamically adjusts the speed between 2,400 RPM and 3,200 RPM. That means automatic variations without you having to manually adjust the speed, but that still doesn't give a lower speed range that the Kestrel offers.
With these differences in mind, Kestrel offers a more versatile performance range. You can go slower or faster to better suit your massage needs, whether you require a gentler or more intense treatment. Meanwhile, the B37S is more focused on higher intensity levels.
Battery & Charging
Ekrin B37S
Ekrin claimed both massage gun models have an equal battery life of up to 8 hours on a single charge, but they differ in terms of charging option.
Ekrin B37S is more limited to the proprietary wall charger included in the package.
With USB-C PD charging, the Kestrel is more versatile, allowing you to use most other USB-C chargers you may already have. It also supports fast charging, replenishing the battery faster than the B37S with no fast charging support.
Ekrin B37S vs Kestrel
Final Thoughts
Ekrin Kestrel
While the two massage guns are very similar in many respects, the Kestrel's wider speed range, deeper amplitude, textured grip, scroll wheel control, and more versatile USB-C charging give it a bit more flexibility and performance capabilities. Meanwhile, B37S offers a more informative force meter with its Reactive Force Sensor and a unique Variable Frequency Speed setting.
Despite the many differences and advantages each model offers, I think the primary aspect that will determine which massage gun offers the better value is their speed range.
If you tend to focus on higher-intensity massages, the Ekrin B37S may offer a better value proposition. However, if you prefer a wider range of speeds to suit your different needs at different times, investing $20 more on Kestrel may be a good decision to make.
If you like to read more about massage guns, check out our other relevant guides here:
Ekrin Bantam vs B37
Ekrin B37 vs B37S
Ekrin B37 vs Kestrel
Ekrin Bantam vs Kestrel
Ekrin Bantam vs Theragun Mini
Ekrin Bantam vs Hypervolt Go 2
Ekrin B37 vs Hypervolt 2
Author
Naila Syifa
Content Manager at Synced. She crafts insightful content on the latest trends in technology, consumer electronics, and smart home gadgets.
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