What Is The Best TENS Unit: Reviews And Ratings (For 2023)

iReliev’s Wireless TENS + EMS machine has 14 programs in total. Seven of the programs are for pain relief, six are EMS modes and one has been specifically designed for arthritis.

The TENS programs are named by number, P1, P2, P3 etc.

In our thorough month-long testing of the device, we found each of the pain relief programs to offer something very different to the next.

It’s so simple to use.

The set button, along with the + and – keys on the remote, are used to cycle through the programs.

Designed with only four buttons, you’re able to access every function of the unit, which makes it super straightforward.

It’s also the perfect TENS unit for back pain.

Unlike normal wired units, this machine requires only one pad per channel. One pad does the job of two!

We found that it’s a great feature for your lower back as it means you don’t have to place two pads on your body.

Receiving treatment from the device is therefore simpler, quicker, and to be honest, a bit nicer.

To compare it with standard dual channel devices.

Using two wireless pods and pads with the iReliev is the equivalent of using four pads on a device such as our budget pick, the TechCare Plus 24.

Treatment times can be set from 5-60 minutes. Like programs and intensity levels, you can set each channel independently, so you could have a little longer on one area if you wanted.

Plus 24 has (you guessed it) 24 TENS stimulation modes, more than you’ll find on most units, our other two picks included.

The modes are categorized into six groups with names such as ‘kneading’, ‘cupping,’ ‘reflexology’. Each of the groups has four modes within them and while some of the modes in the same groups may be similar to each other, none of them are overly similar. (We documented this in the full review of Plus 24.)

The device is dual channel which means you can treat two body parts (or for example, both sides of the back) at the same time.

It has 20 intensity levels and while not as many as our other two picks it’s certainly enough to be able to control the level of current. We were never found wanting for any more.

The round A / B button on the controls toggles between the two channels and then you simply press + or – to increase or decrease the strength of treatment.

You get an amazing 20 hours of battery life.

This is substantially longer than most of its rivals so ideal for those who want portability, and don’t want to worry about running out of charge.

We found the unit to be simple and easy to use, with no unnecessary controls. The default treatment time is 20 minutes, and can be increased with just a push of the T key.

After the session is complete the unit automatically switches itself off to preserve (that splendid) battery.

Another feature that impressed us immensely was the screen.

It’s backlit (so you can use it in the dark) and really big (3.75 inches to be precise) and covers almost the entirety of the front of the unit.

While it doesn’t come with a dedicated carrying case like our top pick does, it ships in a lovely box that’s sized perfectly, giving you somewhere to store the device between uses.

Plus 24 offers superb bang for the buck, making it a popular choice for those wanting a feature-rich device without having to make a larger investment.

The update to this device, the TechCare Touch X does offer a touchscreen and a few great additional features, if you want to spend a little more for some handy extras.

Could it be improved?

We think it’s worth noting that there aren’t any pad placement diagrams in the instruction manual, or displayed on the screen like the Beurer EM44 TENS Unit for example.

Your phone acts as the controller, sending electrical stimulation programs to the wireless pods and electrodes that you position on your body.

Say goodbye to standard pre-programmed settings:

Use the app to highlight your painful areas, identify the type of pain you’re experiencing, rate your pain score and tolerance level.

Innovative PowerDot app technology then takes that information and, using a proprietary algorithm, creates a program specially designed to relieve your pain.

This makes your treatment truly tailored to you, however there are a few small issues (which we’ll talk about later).

We found the app so easy to use. The layout is logical and you can connect to your electrodes quickly.

You can track your progress on different areas of your body, see exactly how your pain is progressing, and the impact and changes to your daily life.

Once we were using the PowerDot app regularly, we started receiving updates (just like you might be used to on your iPhone).

It updates in the same way your other apps do and gives your device regular new features.

Each time a new function is released, such as the clever Long Haul Flight mode, you have access to it as soon as the app is updated. If you have automatic updates on your phone, you’ll always have the latest features.

With each app update, we felt like we were getting a new device!

PowerDot 2.0 Duo really is the gift that keeps on giving…

Who knows what’s coming next from PowerDot? (Well, we might have a little insider information…)

Coming back to the Long Haul Flight mode, it’s perfect for regular travelers. Stick the electrodes and pods on before you board and choose your flight duration from 4 up to 17 hours.

PowerDot explain how the mode works:

“Keep the blood circulating through your muscles with refreshing massage automatically running every 30 minutes during your long haul flight.”

Your PowerDot will massage you for 5 minutes every 30 minutes, gently easing in so it doesn’t make you jump. It’s TSA approved too, so you can carry it in your hand luggage without any issues.

Long Haul Flight mode isn’t just ideal for frequent flyers. It’s also highly desirable for someone who is sat at a desk for long periods of time, experiencing their own long haul every day!

Another great option that we enjoyed is ‘Massage’ mode. A gentle electrical muscle stimulation setting that helps to increase blood flow and oxygen to the area you’re targeting.

PowerDot is without doubt one of the most discreet TENS units around.

Control it easily from your phone, and everyone will just think you’re scrolling through Facebook!

Here’s an example of how perfectly portable it is:

We loved how you could put the electrodes and pods in the back pocket of your cycle jersey.

Your phone is your controller, so you always have that with you. Then when you’re taking a well-earned break from your ride, you’re able to massage your calves (or anywhere else that needs a little TLC).

Buying a TENS machine is relatively easy, but learning how to use it and get the most from it is much harder.

PowerDot offer excellent guidance on how to use their device, both within the app and on their YouTube channel.

We watched tons of their step-by-step videos, learning exactly how to position the electrodes for the area we were targeting.

Videos are insightful without being overcomplicated, helping you become a bit of a TENS expert!

The Duo version ships with two pods and two sets of electrode pads, as well as a micro USB charging cable so you have everything you need to get started.

Plus it all comes packaged in a sleek, specially designed case, so it’s easy to transport and generally just looks great too!

Finance options are available on their website, allowing you to spread the cost over a number of months, just select their finance partner Affirm at checkout.

Are there any downsides?

You must use the PowerDot pods and electrodes, which means you can’t swap them out for any alternatives.

Also, you have the ability to use a maximum of two sets of pods and pads.

So if you want more coverage, for example to cover the whole of your back, it wouldn’t be possible. Remember to always seek medical advice about pad placement.

Due to the clever algorithm tailoring your TENS treatment, you don’t get the standard TENS programs you find on other devices.

For example on a classic TENS machine, after experimentation, you might decide that TENS programme 4 or kneading mode is the one for you.

However PowerDot makes that decision for you based on the information you input. It could be tricky to get to grips with if, like us, you’re used to a traditional TENS device.

But…

Because PowerDot has the capability to update their app this is something they could easily add in the future. It’s certainly a feature we’d recommend (and love to see).

We initially viewed PowerDot as a product predominantly for athletes. Yet such exciting new TENS features make it an impressive new entry in to this space – PowerDot have certainly shaken things up!

Experiment with 20 modes, try kneading on one channel, with the hammering option selected on the other.

You also get 20 levels of intensity, which again you can control independently on each channel.

It ships with pads in a range of different sizes.

Choose between a small and larger size, with the small size ideal for areas that can be trickier to treat such as your knees and elbows.

The Auvon device is a really dinky size, and many purchasers of the unit worried if it could still pack a punch. However after just one use, they were impressed with the power it could deliver.

Plus with a rechargeable battery, you can get up to 10 hours of continuous use.

When you read reviews of TENS machines, people always have mixed opinions on the pads supplied, however not with this device.

Auvon pride themselves on supplying pads that can be used up to 30 times, with many users reporting that they actually lasted much longer.

We enjoy the advantages of both therapies, which is why we added the iReliev Premium TENS and EMS system to our list.

You have eight different TENS modes to experiment with for your pain, and six EMS settings to help improve your workout.

One of the TENS modes has been created for those with arthritis.

If you’re struggling with daily pain then it’s a great option, as TENS has been scientifically proven to help manage different types of arthritis.

With 25 different intensity levels, you have the high level of flexibility you can always rely on with iReliev products.

Plus some great accessories:

Shipping with a USB and mains charger, different sized electrodes, belt clip and tote bag to store everything away.

If you love our number one pick, but want to spend a little less, then this is a great alternative from iReliev without the wireless features.

Users experimenting with the device loved how easy it was to operate. They also appreciated being able to enjoy a 60 minute session without any annoying 15 minute limitations.

Another great machine from TechCare, it combines all the best features of our budget pick, the TechCare Plus 24, in a more contemporary package.

Enjoy 24 massage modes, 20 levels of intensity and dual channels to treat different areas of your body at the same time.

Plus, like its predecessor, the rechargeable battery gives you up to 20 hours of battery life.

So what extras do you get compared to the TechCare Plus 24?

Well, we appreciated the touchscreen, which means you can conveniently switch between modes without having to scroll through different settings.

Intensity buttons on the side of the device allow you to increase and decrease power with ease.

Cost-wise you won’t spend many more dollars on the Touch X unit, but the additional features you’ll benefit from will mean you can get even more from your device.

In fact, in our detailed review of the TENS 7000, we asked whether it might just be the best value device around?

The machine is dual channel, allowing you to treat two areas of your body at the same time, using up to four pads.

Choose from five different modes, adjustable pulse rate and eight levels of intensity.

If you’re someone that enjoys the satisfaction of tweaking the settings to enhance your treatment, then this traditional TENS device could be the one for you.

When you’re shopping around you’ll notice that many devices come with a time limit, when they automatically switch off. However TENS 7000 puts you in control, enabling you to select your own treatment time.

It’s lightweight, which fans of the product loved, plus it ships with a hard shell carry case so it’s easy to pop in your bag.

Downsides to this product? It’s battery powered.

If this is a dealbreaker, you can invest in a rechargeable battery pack. The kit ships with two rechargeable batteries, so you always have a fully charged spare on standby.

Despite offering such a great range of features, we still found it super simple to use. That’s thanks, in part, to the clear instruction manual that ships with the machine.

Everything feels logical, and though the buttons are quite small they’re clear and easy to operate.

Finally, one of the best features we just have to mention:

All the controls are protected by a cover. This is so handy as it means you don’t knock them and accidentally bump up your intensity!

You get 15 different programs to choose from, so not quite as many as our second pick the TechCare Plus 24.

However you get nine Pain-Part Modes, choose from neck, shoulder, back etc, literally by the touch of a button.

Or opt for one of the six Massage-Like Modes, including tapping, cupping and scraping.

Battery-wise, it’s rechargeable — a great feature for such a low cost.

We would suggest charging between treatments as the battery doesn’t last for hours and there’s no indicator to tell you how much juice you have left, aside from a charging light.

If the look of the product is important to you, for example if you’re buying a gift for someone living with pain, the Etekcity TENS Unit has a more contemporary design than many others on the market.

The screen is large and clear so you can see exactly what settings you have selected.

Don’t underestimate the power of each massage mode having its own individual button either!

It can be perfect for people who just want to pick up and go rather than flicking through the manual to remind themselves how to control the unit.

Our research has shown that users of this unit were impressed with its power and the ease of use, which meant they could waste no time at all getting to work on their pain.

Of course as we’ve previously mentioned, this doesn’t mean you get extra power, just that the power increases in smaller increments.

For that reason you get more precision, though some people might find it frustrating going through so many levels.

Electrode-wise you can use four pads, so not as many as the Etekcity TENS Unit but it is dual channel, meaning you can set a different intensity on two areas of your body.

In our opinion the biggest selling point of this device has to be the interface, like the Omron you can take one look at it and fairly quickly work out how to use it.

Don’t bother navigating through multiple screens, just increase or decrease your intensity on either channel and select which of the modes you want to use.

It has a nod to early Apple tech, which many in the reviews acknowledged, expressing that the controls felt almost instantly familiar.

You get 18 different modes to experiment with, plus customizable programs. The screen also shows you where to place the pads to make it even more convenient.

It’s one of the best TENS units for labor:

You can quickly react to your changing pain level, without accidentally knocking the intensity too high, plus the simple user interface is helpful when you don’t have the focus to fiddle with multiple settings.

So what are the downsides of this product?

Well, it doesn’t have a rechargeable battery. This could be frustrating if you run out of power mid-treatment.

Though as we identified earlier, you could invest in a set of rechargeable batteries.

The Beurer EM44 is also not wireless, however it’s a great price, has a good set of features and comes from Beurer, a trusted name in health and wellbeing.

On this handy little pocket-sized device you can play around with five different modes.

Three pain modes target different areas of your body including the arms and shoulders, lower back and your legs and feet.

There are then two ‘massage-like’ modes, a steady setting and a kneading option.

With each of the modes you have 10 adjustable intensity levels to select from, to help you find what’s right for you.

When we compared it with other products we’ve reviewed, we instantly recognized that you don’t get as many settings to play around with.

However just take a look at a picture of this unit.

You can instantly see how to operate it, by using the up and down arrows to move through the modes and intensity levels. Simple!

It’s the perfect device for people who might struggle with more complex technology.

Omron’s Pocket Pain Pro ships with long life pads, which Omron claim can be used 150 times, as well as a plastic holder to store them.

One downside is that it’s battery-powered. However for such an affordable price and a good range of features, it’s worth the compromise.

Plus you could always invest in a rechargeable battery kit to ensure you never run out of power.