Theragun Relief vs Mini: 4 Key Aspects
By Naila Syifa
Updated March 2024
If you're looking for a percussive massage gun, Theragun offers a variety of massage guns to suit different needs. Theragun Relief is the entry-level model, while the Theragun Mini is the most compact and portable option. If you're considering between the two models, there are at least four key aspects to consider.
Key Takeaways
Theragun Relief offers milder massage at a cheaper price, while Theragun Mini offers moderate to intense massage in a compact and portable size. Theragun Mini has Bluetooth connectivity for easy control and guided routines through the Therabody app, while Theragun Relief offers physical routine cards for simpler guidance without the app.
Theragun Relief
Everyday Massage
Simple and mild percussive massaging device for daily aches, pains, tension and stiffness.
Theragun Mini (2nd Gen)
The Smallest & Lightest Yet
Theragun power, packed into an ultra-portable package that's now 20% smaller and 30% lighter.
#1 Price
Theragun Relief
Theragun Relief and Mini are two Theragun models that come under $200, making them the most affordable option in the Theragun lineup. Theragun Relief is a bit cheaper at US$149, while the Theragun Mini (2nd Gen) is slightly more expensive at US$199.
The refurbished version of the first-generation Theragun Mini is also available at an even lower price point of US$99, but take note that the second-generation Theragun Mini we'll be discussing here has some notable improvements over the first generation.
Read also: Theragun Mini (2nd Gen) vs Theragun Mini (1st Gen)
#2 Design
Theragun Mini
Similar to other Theragun models, Theragun Relief has a triangular handle design that allows you to grip the device from multiple angles, making it easier to reach different areas of your body. It is quite lightweight at 1.37 lbs (0.62 kg) and comes with 3 different attachments for targeting different muscle groups: a Dampener, Standard Ball, and Thumb.
Theragun Mini also features an ergonomic triangle shape and comes with 3 different attachments as the Theragun Relief, but it is more compact and lighter at only 1 lb (0.45 kg). This compact design makes it easier to carry around and use on the go, perfect for those who want to bring the device to the gym, office, or for travel.
Both models feature one multifunctional button to control the device, making them easy to use and navigate. The 3 LED indicators next to the button show the speed level, which you can adjust by shortly pressing the button.
#3 Features
Theragun Relief
Both Theragun Relief and Theragun Mini offer percussive massage therapy that helps to relieve muscle soreness and stiffness, improve range of motion, enhance blood flow, and offer some other benefits for daily recovery and performance.
However, the Theragun Relief has an amplitude of 10 mm, which is lower than the Theragun Mini with an amplitude of 12 mm. This means, Theragun Relief provides a gentler, milder, and soothing massage while the Theragun Mini offers a slightly more intense and deeper massage experience.
Theragun Mini also has an advantage with its Bluetooth connectivity, which allows the device to sync with the Therabody app. The Therabody app offers more personalized and guided massage routines, allowing you to use the device more effectively and easily.
Theragun Mini
For example, you can choose an upper body warm-up and the app will tell you which attachment to use and will guide you through the step-by-step process of the routine, including visual guidance of the specific muscle groups you're targeting and how long to use the device in each area.
Theragun Relief has no Bluetooth connectivity, but you still have access to the routines and programs offered through the Therabody app. However, not syncing the device with the app means you'll need to manually adjust the device's speed settings as the app won't be able to control the device. You will also have to follow the routine on your own without the app's real-time guidance.
Routine Cards of Theragun Relief
For people who are not tech-savvy or don't want to use the app, Theragun Relief offers routine cards that provide 3 simple quick-start routines that you can follow easily without any additional guidance, including Refresh Your Legs, Reduce Neck Tension, and Relieve Lower Back Pain. This may be preferable for people who want a simpler and more straightforward massage experience.
#4 Battery & Charging
Theragun Mini
Theragun Relief and Theragun Mini have no difference when it comes to battery life, with both lasting up to 120 minutes on a single charge.
Charging both massage guns is also convenient with the USB-C charging port, but Theragun Mini has a slightly faster charging time of 80 minutes, while Theragun Relief takes 90 minutes to fully charge.
Theragun Relief vs Mini
Final Thoughts
Theragun Relief
Theragun Relief and Theragun Mini are two great options for people who want to invest in a percussive massage gun without breaking the bank. While Theragun Relief provides a gentler massage with simple features, Theragun Mini offers better portability and more advanced Bluetooth connectivity for personalized and guided routines through the Therabody app.
Eventually, your choice between the two models will depend on your budget, massage preferences, and whether you will benefit from the guided step-by-step routines offered by the Therabody app.
If you like to read more about massage guns, check out our other relevant guides here:
The Best Massage Guns
Theragun PRO Plus vs Theragun PRO (5th Gen)
Theragun Sense vs Theragun Elite
Theragun Prime vs PRO
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