Theragun mini (2nd Gen) vs Theragun Prime: Which is Better?
By Linus T.
Updated Jun 2023
Therabody launched their newest Theragun mini (2nd Gen) model in late 2022 as an upgrade to the previous 4th generation model that was released in mid-2020.
The Theragun Mini is the portable option in the Theragun series. It is often compared to the Theragun Prime, which is the next step up in the range.
We’ll dive into our Theragun mini (2nd Gen) vs Theragun Prime review and compare them on price, performance, and design to figure out which is better for you.
On our list
#1 Price
#2 Power & Performance
#3 Design
#4 Battery & Charging
Theragun mini (2nd Gen)
The Smallest & Lightest Yet
Theragun power, packed into an ultra-portable package that's now 20% smaller and 30% lighter.
Theragun Prime
Simple & Standard
✓ 30 lbs of stall force
✓ 16 mm amplitude
✓ Up to 2 hours of battery life
✓ Patented ergonomic triangle design
#1 Price
Theragun mini (2nd Gen) vs Theragun Prime
The Theragun mini (2nd Gen) is priced at US$199, while the Theragun Prime is slightly more expensive at US$299. The US$100 price difference is understandable, as the Prime comes with additional hardware features.
With a 50% higher cost, the Prime may be too expensive for those on a tight budget. In this case, the Theragun Mini will be the more ideal and affordable option.
#2 Power & Performance
Theragun mini (2nd Gen) vs Theragun Prime
The Theragun Prime has a higher stall force of 30 lbs and amplitude of 16 mm, allowing it to penetrate deeper into your muscles compared to the Mini, which has 20 lbs stall force and 12 mm amplitude. This makes the Theragun Prime more powerful and penetrative than the Mini and would make the Prime a more ideal option for those looking at stronger massage guns.
In terms of speed, both devices can reach up to 2,400 PPM. Furthermore, they come with built-in Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to connect to the Therabody app for guided routines and more precise speed control.
With the app, you can unlock personalised routines for your recovery or even try out programmes that are meant to help with sleep and stress. The app also provides guidance to help you alleviate pain symptoms and treat specific ailments like tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, and more.
Theragun mini (2nd Gen)
The Smallest & Lightest Yet
Theragun power, packed into an ultra-portable package that's now 20% smaller and 30% lighter.
#3 Design
Theragun mini (2nd Gen) vs Theragun Prime
When it comes to design, the Theragun Prime has all the essential elements for everyday deep percussive therapy. It features a patented ergonomic triangle multi-grip design that is one of Theragun's trademarks. This design allows for easy massaging of all body parts, reaching up to 95% of the body with utmost convenience.
In comparison, the Theragun Mini has a triangular body with a single grip, making it small and lightweight. This design reduces strain on your arms and makes it easy to hold. Additionally, the biggest benefit of its design for most people is its portability. You can easily put it in your bag and take it with you to the gym or office.
A great thing about the new Theragun mini (2nd Gen) model is that it now includes 3 attachments. In addition to the regular Standard Ball, you also get the Dampener and Thumb attachments, which are more versatile for different use cases. This puts it a little more on par with the Theragun Prime, which comes with 4 attachments, including an additional Cone attachment for pinpoint treatment.
Theragun Prime
Simple & Standard
✓ 30 lbs of stall force
✓ 16 mm amplitude
✓ Up to 2 hours of battery life
✓ Patented ergonomic triangle design
#4 Battery & Charging
Theragun mini (2nd Gen) vs Theragun Prime
The new Theragun Mini (2nd Gen) has been upgraded with fast USB-C charging, making it much more convenient. In contrast, the Theragun Prime requires its own unique charging adapter, which can be a hassle if you need to bring the charging brick with you.
The battery life of the two models is now the same, at 120 minutes. This is generally more than enough for a couple of days of use.
Compare Theragun mini (2nd Gen) vs Theragun Prime
Final Thoughts
Theragun mini (2nd Gen) vs Theragun Prime
Despite being an older model, the Theragun Prime still stands out between the two models as a baseline percussive therapy device. It features an ideal force and amplitude for effective deep muscle therapy and Theragun’s patented ergonomic design.
The only reason we think you should trade those features off for the Theragun mini (2nd Gen) is for one of two things. You really want something lightweight & portable, or you’re not ready to invest too much into a massage gun.
If you like to read more about Theragun percussive therapy massage guns, check out our other relevant guides here:
Theragun PRO (5th Gen) vs Theragun PRO (4th Gen)
Theragun mini (2nd Gen) vs Theragun Prime
Theragun PRO (5th Gen) vs Hypervolt Pro 2
Theragun min (2nd Gen) vs Hypervolt Go 2
Explore the full collection of Theragun on Amazon.com or visit our Official Theragun Singapore Store.
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