In this Ekrin B37S vs Kestrel review, we will compare Ekrin Athletics’ highly-rated flagship device with its even more advanced, recently introduced successor.
Both backed by the Boston-based company’s lifetime warranty, the two devices are aimed at professional athletes and those who want to recover like one. But does the tried and tested B37S still meet all your needs, or should you invest in the brand-new Kestrel?
This side-by-side comparison will help you find out.
Ekrin B37S
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Ekrin Kestrel
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Amplitude
12 mm
13 mm
Stall Force
55 lbs
55 lbs
Battery Life
Up to 8 hours
Up to 8 hours
Working Noise
Up to 55 dB
Up to 55 dB
Attachments
6
6
Comparison: Ekrin B37S vs Kestrel
Amplitude
The Kestrel now comes with an amplitude of 13 mm, compared to 12 mm for the B37S (and Ekrin‘s other massage guns). Thus, the head attachment of the newest model reaches a little bit further into the muscle tissue than was previously the case.
Winner: Ekrin Kestrel
12 mm
13 mm
Force
The brushless motor inside the B37S and Kestrel only reaches its limit at around 55 lbs of resistance, giving them one of the highest stall forces on the market and making them powerful enough even for the most demanding users.
Winner: Draw
55 lbs
55 lbs
Frequency & Speed Levels
Now starting at 1,800 percussions per minute (ppm) and maxing out at 3,500 ppm, the Kestrel offers increased flexibility both on the lower and upper end. The newer model is also equipped with a smooth scroll wheel, allowing for a seamless transition between speeds.
Winner: Ekrin Kestrel
2000 to 3200 ppm, 5 levels
1800 to 3500 ppm, 6 levels
Connectivity
Unfortunately, neither the B37S nor Kestrel can be connected to your smartphone via Bluetooth. If you would like to have an app guide you through warm-up and recovery routines and be able to track your progress, consider Hypervolt and Theragun as alternatives.
Winner: Draw
No
No
Battery
The Lithium-ion battery inside the B37S and Kestrel powers them for up to eight hours of treatments, far above the market average for such powerful massage guns. Considering that each session only takes around ten minutes, both devices will last for weeks on a single charge.
Winner: Draw
Up to 8 hours
Up to 8 hours
Noise
When it comes to their noise level, the two competing devices are once again tied. On the highest speed setting, they operate at 55 decibels (dB) each. On the lowest setting, their noise emissions drop to just 35 dB – making them suitable even for quiet environments like the office.
Winner: Draw
Up to 55 dB
Up to 55 dB
Attachments & Accessories
Similar to the B37S, Kestrel comes with six interchangeable head attachments that allow you to personalize the massage experience to your needs.
- Flat: Great for overall use
- Air Cushion: Softer feel for sensitive areas
- Bullet: Pinpoint treatment including hands, feet, and knots
- Round (Silicone): Low impact – great for recovery and treating sore areas
- Fork: Designed for the spine and neck
- Cone: Silicone cone tip perfect for targeted tender and bony areas
Both models ship with a carrying case and a charger.
Winner: Draw
6 massage heads / Travel case
6 massage heads / Travel case
Weight & Dimensions
In the final round of this Ekrin B37S vs Kestrel comparison, we will have a quick look at the weight and dimensions of the two massage guns. Once again, they are tied – both weigh in at 2.2 lbs and are identical in terms of length, width, and height.
Winner: Draw
2.2 lbs, 9.5 x 7.4 x 2.5 in
2.2 lbs, 9.5 x 7.4 x 2.5 in
Conclusion: Ekrin B37S vs Kestrel
In addition to an increased amplitude, the Ekrin Kestrel convinces with a wider frequency range and a more seamless transition between speeds. Other improvements include the textured silicone grip for improved handling and its USB-C PD compatibility for faster charging.
The Ekrin B37S might have placed second in this comparison, but still achieves the same impressive stall force as its successor. It also managed to tie the Kestrel in terms of battery life and amount of head attachments, and is thus still a great option from the Boston-based brand.
Ekrin B37S
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Ekrin Kestrel
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