Best Combo TENS units + EMS machines - Buying Guide: 2024

The use of electrotherapy is so deeply rooted in the field of physiotherapy nowadays that it is possible to use it for a variety of purposes, ranging from muscle training and conditioning to the treatment of ailments caused by illnesses and injuries. Because of this, one of the best purchases you can make when it comes to electrostimulators is to get a device that has a variety of electrotherapy modes.

It is possible to find electrotherapy machines with functions to apply both Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and Electro Muscle Stimulation (EMS), and in the following paragraphs, you will be able to see all the criteria you should take into account when purchasing this type of device, in order to get the one that best suits your needs.

Best EMS + TENS electrostimulators Combos

HiDOw presents its XP-Micro 8 electrostimulator, a versatile and compact electrotherapy unit that combines the best of TENS and EMS technologies with a dual channel function that allows you to apply treatment and stimulation to different parts of the body simultaneously. Its function is based on the emission of electrical impulses that block pain signals, and generate muscle stimulation to help develop strength and toning.

It has 8 preset programs and 20 intensity levels, along with a session timer function that you can set between 10 and 60 minutes. Its built-in rechargeable lithium battery provides excellent durability, and the package contains 1 XP Micro 8 electrostimulator, 1 set of large pads, 1 set of small pads, 2 cables, 1 power adapter, 1 user manual and 1 carrying case to take it wherever you need it.

This electrostimulation unit brought to light by iReliev, is a powerful and versatile machine that combines the latest in TENS and EMS technology to create a device that will allow you to develop the strength, size and tone of your muscles, along with gentle stimulation designed to treat all types of muscle and joint ailments caused by injury, fatigue or illness.

It has a total of 14 massage modes, of which 7 are TENS-type currents for pain relief, 1 mode for arthritis pain treatment, and 6 modes for muscle recovery and therapy. In addition, you can adjust the intensity to any of its 25 levels, and define the duration of each session from 5 to 60 minutes thanks to its timer function.

The EV-805 electrotherapy unit model is an incredibly versatile electrostimulation machine that uses variable intensity electrical impulses generated by the use of TENS and EMS technologies. This combination results in a device that can be used to treat pain caused by various diseases and injuries, as well as stimulate the production of muscle fibers to increase muscle volume, tone and strength.

It has 4 channels of operation, 5 modes of TENS currents, 3 modes of EMS stimulation; and 24 predefined programs that generate low intensity electrical impulses to stimulate the nerve endings in the treated area, effectively blocking pain signals.

Massage Therapy Concepts presents its TENS/EMS electrostimulation machine, which combines the best qualities of both technologies to generate a viable option with which to treat pain caused by various injuries and diseases, as well as stimulate muscle mass to increase strength and definition. All this integrated in 12 modes of use with different intensities and levels, designed for different types of ailments.

Its dual channel function allows you to treat multiple areas of the body simultaneously, and its easy to use mode allows you to set the massage modes without any problems. It has a timer that you can set up to 60 minutes, and an LCD display that allows you to visualize all the procedures very easily.

Compex presents the Muscle Massage Kit that includes the versatile Compex Edge 2.0 electrostimulator, which is presented as one of the most effective options to complement physical training, thanks to its 4 programs of use, 2 for strength training, 1 for recovery, and 1 TENS massage mode, which will allow you to increase the strength and endurance of your muscles, while reducing the ailments caused by fatigue.

The package includes 12 clip-type electrodes, 4 guide wires, built-in battery and a dust-proof bag so you can take your electrostimulation device with you wherever you go. Its training modes will allow you to increase your endurance and explosive strength, while the recovery modes will allow you to expel lactic acid and reduce aches and pains caused by post-workout exhaustion.

The Compex Wireless USA 2.0 electrostimulation unit gives you one of the best alternatives to improve the results of physical training, while providing relief from the aches and pains caused by it, through its 10 electrostimulation programs divided into strength training, warm-up, recovery and TENS massage modes.

It is the perfect tool to maximize the results of your workout thanks to its electrical impulses that stimulate the growth of muscle fibers, while reducing and even preventing pain caused by exercise and promoting a quick recovery.

The AUVON electrostimulation unit is one of the best options for treating nerve and muscle ailments, as well as a great addition to fitness. This is because it combines TENS stimulation technology with EMS technology, making it one of the most versatile devices on the market.

It has a 4-channel independent control mode, through which you can treat different parts of the body with different settings and intensities as required. You can select from 24 preset massage modes, each designed to relieve certain types of pain and produce an overall sense of relief.

The Belifu electrostimulator has several features that make it stand out from other devices of this type. One of these is its function of 4 independent channels that will allow you to individually treat different areas of the body. It has 24 massage modes and 20 intensity levels that allow for a wide range of ailment relief.

The Belifu electrotherapy device includes 10 reusable self-adhesive conductive pads and 5 sets of guide wires. The electrodes are coated with an adhesive layer that gives them perfect adhesion to the skin, and with proper care, can withstand a large number of uses before they need to be replaced.

The Compex brand has one of the best electrostimulation machines available on the market. It is the versatile Compex Performance, which comes in a very complete kit with all the complements you may need to apply an efficient electrostimulation therapy. It includes 12 clip-type electrodes pads, guide wires, battery, 1 carrying bag and 1 user's guide.

It also has 5 programs of use focused on different branches of physical conditioning: endurance, resistance, strength, active recovery and warm-up. Proper use of this device will allow you to reach your maximum performance with very little cardiovascular fatigue, and is highly recommended for fitness enthusiasts who frequently engage in competitions.

One of the most versatile products of the Compex brand is its Compex Mini electro stimulator, which is focused on providing the greatest possible comfort to the user, thanks to its compact size and its convenient application, which allows you to control it very easily from your mobile device. It consists of 2 pods that use TENS technology controllable from the app, which is compatible for Android and Apple.

It has a rechargeable battery that can provide an autonomy of up to 7 hours per charge, 6 unique training programs focused on different branches of fitness to help you achieve your goals, and compatibility with your mobile for easy use. It is recommended for those physically active people looking for a compact, portable and natural way to deal with workout-related ailments.

The iReliev electrostimulator is one of the most practical and complete options for the treatment of ailments and physical conditioning, since it combines in its compact size the most advanced TENS and EMS technology, making it the number one option for the relief of ailments of any kind, thanks to the 14 predefined treatment programs available.

The compact size of the device makes it incredibly practical and easy to carry, so you can use it anywhere you like quickly and discreetly. It is FDA approved, so it is completely safe to use, and its LCD screen gives you a full display of all settings so you can easily adjust your requirements.

The correct term to define this amazing electrostimulation machine is versatility. The TENKER electrotherapy unit has 24 pre-programmed massage modes that provide incredibly precise control for the relief of muscle and joint pain caused by injury or illness. Its internal lithium battery provides 24 hours of continuous use.

It has 20 intensity levels and a dual current output function, which will allow you to program different modes of use in each of its electrodes allowing you to treat different areas of the body simultaneously. Its electrodes are reusable and hypoallergenic, and it has a timer that can be adjusted between 10 and 60 minutes.

The physiotherapy products brand OBOVOV presents for its users an electro stimulator model that combines the best and most avant-garde characteristics of EMS electro stimulation with TENS massages, resulting in one of the most versatile devices for the relief of all types of ailments, which in turn works as an incredible complement for muscle conditioning.

It has 21 modes of use and 40 intensity levels that allow it to treat different types of pain in different parts of the body. It has a dual output function, so you can treat two areas of the body simultaneously. All these features make this unit the best choice if you suffer from chronic ailments or caused by rheumatic diseases, providing a feeling of immediate relief and a great resistance to pain.

The Compex Sport Elite 3.0 is the next step in the fitness branch of the Compex line of units. It is a completely redesigned and upgraded version of the SP series electro stimulators, built with water resistance, an improved LCD display, a central navigation button and many other new features.

It has a total of 10 programs, which are divided into 2 warm-up programs, 2 strength enhancement programs, 3 recovery enhancement programs, and 2 TENS massage programs to reduce pain. With the Elite 3.0 you can take your workouts to the next level by being able to use it at any stage of your workout, before, during or after.

The Compex brand offers one of its best electrostimulation machines: the Compex Performance 3.0, a muscle electrostimulator with TENS and EMS operation that facilitates physical recovery after exercise, in the same way that it can stimulate muscle growth through its high frequency electrical impulses, which generate contractions that activate muscle fibers.

It has a powerful rechargeable lithium battery that gives it an autonomy of up to 8 continuous hours, and 6 programs of use that are divided into 1 warm-up program, 3 programs for increasing output, 1 recovery program and 1 TENS program. It is one of the most complete options to improve physical performance and recovery.

Video: How to use electrotherapy to improve my health?

Types of TENS machines and muscle electrostimulators that you should know about

Best 4 Channel TENS units & EMS machines - Buying Guide: 2024

Best Combo TENS units + EMS machines - Buying Guide: 2024

Best Dual Channel TENS units & EMS machines - Buying Guide: 2024

Best Mini TENS units & EMS machines - Buying Guide: 2024

Best Portable TENS units & EMS machines - Buying Guide: 2024

Best Rechargeable TENS units & EMS machines - Buying Guide: 2024

Best TENS units & EMS machines with heat therapy - Buying Guide: 2024

Best Wireless TENS units & EMS machines - Buying Guide: 2024

Buying guide: What should I take into account to buy the best EMS + TENS Combo?

When purchasing an electrostimulator that has the necessary operating programs to apply TENS and EMS therapy, it is necessary to take into consideration a variety of factors related to both the user's capabilities and needs, as well as the technical specifications of each device.

Types of uses

• Type of use: the versatility of combo despotics makes them ideal for both multilevel pain treatment and muscle conditioning, so it is necessary to take into consideration whether both features will be taken advantage of.
• User experience: in general, this type of device is moderately difficult to operate, variable in relation to the make and model of each device. It is necessary to take into account the user's experience in handling electrostimulators in order to acquire one with adequate ease of use.
• Time of use: this factor mainly affects the required quality of the device, since it will be necessary to acquire a superior quality electro-stimulator if you plan to use it for prolonged periods of time, whether for training, rehabilitation or treatment of chronic ailments.

Technical characteristics

• Channels: the number of electrodes that can be applied on the skin will depend on this characteristic, directly impacting the range of action of the electrical impulses. Two-channel devices allow for a greater number of electrodes.
• Pads/Electrodes: these are used to apply the electrical impulses to the area to be treated. The pads are positioned on the skin, and the number of pads available on the machine will affect the range of effectiveness of each session. The more electrodes a device has, the larger the area of skin that can be covered. Two-channel devices allow a maximum of eight electrodes.
• Modes/Programs: Programs are the various treatment or training modes that each device can offer. TENS/EMS combo devices can offer a large number of pain relief and muscle activation modes, although this number varies from brand to brand and model to model.
• Intensity levels: Better quality devices offer several levels of anti-AIDS per program. This increases their effectiveness as it allows the electrical impulses to penetrate deeper into either the muscle or nerve level.
• Type of screen: analog screen devices generally present a greater complexity of use, unlike LCD touch screen devices, which allow a wide visualization of programs and levels. It should be noted that, in most cases, this difference impacts mainly on ease of use and price, not on the performance of the device.
• Wireless: this is a factor that impacts portability. It is possible to find fixed electrostimulators, portable electrostimulators powered by AA batteries, and electrostimulators powered by rechargeable lithium battery.
• Heat therapy: this is not a therapy modality that is present in most devices, so those that have it tend to be more expensive. It is a very useful feature for the treatment of pain caused by rheumatic disorders, such as arthritis and gout.
• Size: size is an important factor as it often allows for greater power and the use of more electrodes in the case of bulkier machines, while smaller machines have the advantage of being easily portable.
• Portable: this is a factor to be taken into account depending on the buyer's need to access the device at certain times of the day. It is necessary for the electro stimulator to be compact enough so that you can carry it on your person during your daily tasks.
• Types of electrodes pads: the number and types of electrodes determine the range of action of the electrical impulses on the treated area. In addition, you must take into consideration the fact that, in certain cases, the devices are only compatible with their factory electrodes, so it is necessary to go to specialized stores to order spare parts in case it is necessary.
• Battery type: this is a factor that impacts the performance of the devices and the buyer's long-term economy. Rechargeable machines with lithium batteries operate for longer periods of time than those with AA batteries, plus they do not require the additional expense of replacing AA batteries.
• Pre-programmed timer: this is a factor that is at the buyer's disposal, since although it is not indispensable, it is very useful to keep a precise control of the duration of each session.
• Combo: it is one of the best options thanks to its versatility, although this feature may increase the price of the device, since it is not present in all of them.
• Interferential: this is a great feature thanks to its depth effect and its low effect on the skin. It is not available in most devices, so those that include it have higher prices, and it is possible to find machines dedicated to interferential therapy.
• Warranty: depends on the laws of the region, however, the minimum warranty by law in Europe is two years.
• Price: although it is a factor to take into account, it is not definitive when making a decision on which electrostimulator to purchase. It is a question of the buyer's purchasing power, and of finding the balance between economy and the device that covers all your needs.

Differences between TENS and EMS: Which one is better for me?

The devices that combine Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation therapy and Muscular Electrostimulation are very versatile, however, it is necessary to have knowledge about the applications of each of these therapies in order to apply them correctly and obtain the best results.

TENS Units

• Treatment of acute ailments: it is an excellent method for treating recent pain, since its electrical impulses quickly inhibit the sensation of pain in the affected area.
• Treatment of chronic pain: prolonged treatment with TENS electrostimulation presents a gradual decrease in chronic pain.
• Muscle relaxation: its electrical discharges promote the relaxation of fibrous tissue, decreasing muscle tension and reducing the sensation of pain.
• Pain caused by hormonal imbalances: TEN therapy is very useful in relieving the sensation of pain caused by hormonal conditions such as endometriosis or dysmenorrhea.
• Pain caused by rheumatic diseases: it is an option to consider for the treatment of ailments such as those caused by rheumatoid arthritis, sciatica or gout.

EMS Electrostimulators

• Muscle toning: the electrical impulses generate contractions that improve the elasticity and resistance of the muscle fibers worked.
• Maintaining and resuming physical activity: it is an excellent option to maintain physical activity when it is not possible to perform complete exercises, or to recover muscular condition after a prolonged period of sedentary lifestyle.
• Rehabilitation of the musculature after injuries: it is widely used in the field of physiotherapy to recondition a muscle or muscle group that has gone through its recovery period after a surgical process or an injury.
• Increased recovery of muscle tissue: the activation of muscle groups caused by the high intensity electrical impulses of EMS promotes the recovery of muscle fibers.

Contraindications in the use of TENS + EMS Combos