In this Theragun Elite 4th vs 5th Generation review, we will compare the popular mid-level device of market leader Therabody with its recently released successor.
Looking at the design, we can see that both versions are based on the brand’s signature triangle ergonomic handle. But what changes were made on the inside, and do they make it worthwhile for you to upgrade to the latest generation?
This side-by-side comparison will help you find out.
Theragun Elite (4th Gen)
Theragun Elite (5th Gen)
Amplitude
16 mm
16 mm
Stall Force
40 lbs
40 lbs
Battery Life
Up to 2 hours
Up to 2 hours
Working Noise
Up to 65 dB(A)
Up to 65 dB(A)
Attachments
5
5
Comparison: Theragun Elite 4th vs 5th Generation
Amplitude
With an amplitude of 16 mm each, the Theragun Elite of the 4th and 5th generation are a great choice for percussive deep-tissue treatment. In fact, their stroke length is among the highest on the market.
Winner: Draw
16 mm
16 mm
Force
Both versions of the Theragun Elite are equipped with a brushless motor that only reaches its limits at a resistance of 40 lbs. Thus, they are perfectly suitable to help you decrease muscle fatigue and improve recovery after an intense workout.
Winner: Draw
40 lbs
40 lbs
Frequency & Speed Levels
Starting at 1,750 percussions per minute (ppm), the upper limit for both variants is set at 2,400 ppm. Five different speed levels are built-in and available at the push of a button:
- Level 1: 1,750 ppm
- Level 2: 1,900 ppm
- Level 3: 2,100 ppm
- Level 4: 2,200 ppm
- Level 5: 2,400 ppm
Using the app, you can also set the ppm yourself (see below).
Winner: Draw
1750 – 2400 ppm, 5 levels
1750 – 2400 ppm, 5 levels
Connectivity
All of Therabody‘s massage guns of the 4th and 5th generation can be connected to the Therabody app on your smartphone. Among other things, the app can then control the device speed for you, so you can focus on following the guided warm-up and recovery routines.
Winner: Draw
Yes
Yes
Battery
The Lithium-ion battery inside the Theragun Elite allows for up to two hours of usage. With each session only taking a few minutes, both models should last for several days on a single charge. Thanks to USB-C charging, the new version is good to go in half the time.
Winner: Theragun Elite (5th Gen)
Up to 2 hours
Up to 2 hours
Noise
On the highest speed setting, the Theragun Elite of the 4th and 5th generation both operate at a maximum noise level of 65 decibels (dB). Thus, neither will get you into trouble with fellow gym members when you get started with your recovery in the locker room.
Winner: Draw
Up to 65 dB(A)
Up to 65 dB(A)
Attachments & Accessories
The five interchangeable head attachments included with the Theragun Elite allow you to adjust the massage experience to your exact needs. In the newer variant, the Cone attachment was replaced by a Micro-Point attachment:
- Dampener: Perfect for overall use
- Standard Ball: Perfect for overall use on large and small muscle groups
- Wedge: Perfect for shoulder blades and IT Bands
- Thumb: Used mostly for trigger points and the lower back
- Micro-Point: Provides increased stimulation throughout treatment
Unlike its predecessor, the new Theragun Elite now also ships with a soft case.
Winner: Theragun Elite (5th Gen)
5 massage heads
5 massage heads / Soft case
Weight & Dimensions
In the final round of this Theragun Elite 4th vs 5th generation comparison, we will have a quick look at the weight and dimensions of the two devices. While there is no winner in the first category, the older version takes up minimally less space in your gym bag.
Winner: Theragun Elite (4th Gen)
2.2 lbs, 9.5 x 2.9 x 6.7 in
2.2 lbs, 9.37 x 7.32 x 2.95 in
Conclusion: Theragun Elite 4th vs 5th Generation
Reading through this article, you have probably realized yourself how few changes have been made to the Theragun Elite (5th Gen). The implementation of USB-C charging has significantly lowered the amount of time needed for getting the battery back to 100%. We also like the added travel case.
That said, in most categories, including important ones such as amplitude and stall force, the Theragun Elite (4th Gen) can still keep up with its successor. If you already own the older version, it probably makes most sense to continue using it for now, or look at the more advanced Theragun PRO.
Theragun Elite (4th Gen)
Theragun Elite (5th Gen)
Frequently Asked Questions
What generation is Theragun Elite?
As of May 2024, the Theragun Elite is in its fifth generation. Los Angeles, California-based Therabody has also released five generations of the Theragun Prime and six generations of its flagship device, the Theragun PRO Plus.
Looking for an even more powerful massage gun? Find out how Therabody’s flagship devices of the 4th and 5th generation stack up against each other in our comparison Theragun PRO 4th vs 5th Generation.