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

The number of channels available in an electrostimulation device is a true indicator of its capabilities. Therefore, in the field of physiotherapy, one of the best purchases you can make is a 4-channel electrostimulation device, which allows a much greater distribution of the current in the treated areas.

In the following paragraphs, we will teach you everything you need to know about the use and applications of 4 channel electrostimulators, as well as the criteria you should be aware of in order to select the device that best suits your needs.

Best 4-channel electrostimulators and TENS machines

iSTIM - EMS - TENS Muscle stimulator for back pain with 24 programs
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes: 32 Programs
  • Intensity: Not specified
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable
  • Electrodes: 3 Types, Japanese Electrode 24 pcs.
  • Display: LCD
  • Size: Not specified
  • Includes 24 electrodes of 3 different types
  • Portable device
  • 4-channel TENS+EMS Combo
  • Includes carrying case
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Does not specify measurements and weight
  • No intensity indication
  • No heat therapy
The iSTIM EV-805 is one of the most versatile and complete electrostimulation units you can find on the market. For starters, it features the powerful combination of TENS and EMS modalities, which means you can use it for the treatment of various types of pain, as well as for fitness and muscle toning.

Among its best features are its 4-channel function that allows you to apply individual massage programs on different parts of the body, its long-life rechargeable battery and its 24 preset modes designed to effectively treat acute and chronic ailments.

Compex Performance 3.0 - Combo TENS/EMS with 6 programs for improve muscle performance
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes/Programs: 6 Programs
  • Intensity: Not specified
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable Lithium (8 hours)
  • Electrodes: Not specified
  • Display: LCD
  • Size: Not specified
  • Improves joint mobility
  • Improves blood circulation
  • Accelerates recovery from sports injuries
  • TENS+EMS Combo
  • Long battery life (up to 8 hours)
  • Does not specify intensity levels
  • Measurements and weight not specified
  • 6 programs
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.

Etekcity - TENS unit machine for pain relief with 4 channels and 8 electrode pads
  • Type: TENS
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes: 15 Programs
  • Intensity: 20 Levels
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable
  • Electrodes: 8 Pads
  • Display: LCD
  • Size: Not specified
  • Independent control mode
  • Instant pain relief
  • 20 intensity levels
  • 15 different working modes
  • Portable device
  • Battery life not specified
  • Does not specify dimensions and weight
  • No heat therapy
The Etekcity massage unit offers one of the most comprehensive pain relief experiences you will find in a device of this type, with an innovative 4-channel function that allows you to apply different types of massage to individual areas of the body, increasing the effectiveness of electrostimulation therapy and delivering far superior results.

All its modes of use are FSA and HSA approved, making it completely safe for anyone to use. It can be operated and set up very easily. The package includes reusable electrodes coated with adhesive gel in 3 sizes: 2 units of 2x4 inches, 4 units of 2x2 inches and 2 units of 1.5x1.5 inches.

Roscoe Medical - 4-channel TENS unit and EMS muscle stimulator for back pain relief
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes: 5 Programs
  • Intensity: Not specified
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat therapy: No
  • Battery: 4 AA (included)
  • Electrodes: 12 Pads
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: 10 x 2.5 x 7.6 inches - 1.92 pounds
  • Includes carrying case
  • Includes 24 electrodes of 3 different types
  • Portable Device
  • Promotes tissue healing
  • Pain relief and improves blood circulation
  • Few modes/programs
  • No rechargeable battery
  • Does not specify intensity and size
Roscoe medical has one of the most complete and versatile electrostimulation unit kits on the market, through which you can apply an immediate and effective treatment to various parts of the body simultaneously thanks to its 4-channel function.

It has the powerful composition of TENS and EMS stimulation modalities, making it the ideal choice to treat chronic ailments caused by various diseases, acute ailments caused by injuries, and stimulate muscle growth and recovery through electrical impulses.

StimChoice - 4-channel TENS machine for back and neck pain relief and muscle recovery
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes: 4 Programs
  • Intensity: Not specified
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat therapy: No
  • Battery: 3 AA
  • Electrodes: 8 Pads
  • Display: LCD
  • Size: 6.25 x 2.25 x 0.80 inches
  • Offers relief from cramps
  • TENS + EMS
  • Portable Device
  • Easy to use
  • Includes carrying bag
  • Few modes/programs
  • No rechargeable battery
  • No intensity specified
The StimChoice 4000 is a powerful portable electrostimulation unit that will help you provide immediate relief for various types of ailments thanks to its multiple TENS therapy modes. In addition, it includes an EMS training program, through which you can get more out of your exercise routines, while facilitating muscle recovery.

It has a versatile 4-channel function that allows you to apply individual massage programs to different areas of the body simultaneously, includes 4 modes of professional massage therapy, divided into TENS, EMS, Rehabilitation and Fitness, making it the ideal complement to maximize the results of your workouts.

Compex Edge 3.0 - Combo TENS/EMS with 4 programs for improve muscle performance
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes/Programs: 6 Programs
  • Intensity: Not specified
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable Lithium (8 hours)
  • Electrodes: Not specified
  • Display: LCD
  • Size: Not specified
  • Improves joint mobility
  • Improves blood circulation
  • Accelerates recovery from sports injuries
  • TENS+EMS Combo
  • Long battery life (up to 8 hours)
  • Does not specify intensity levels
  • Measurements and weight not specified
  • 4 programs
The Compex Edge 3.0 electrostimulation kit is a very complete and versatile device that you can use to complement your training and maximize results. It has 4 electrostimulation programs divided into 2 muscle strengthening, 1 recovery and 1 TENS massage mode. Through this device, you can facilitate and improve sports performance.

It has a completely renewed design, with a waterproof silicone cover, an improved LCD screen, central navigation key and integrated lithium battery with a battery life of up to 8 hours of continuous use. The Compex Edge 3.0 will allow you to take your exercise routines to the next level.

SPACEREST - 4-channel rechargeable Tens unit with 24 modes and 24 reusable electrode pads
  • Type: TENS
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes: 24 Modes
  • Intensity: 20 Levels
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable (10 hours of use)
  • Electrodes: 24 Pads
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: Not specified
  • 4 outputs with 2 separate channel configurations
  • Includes 24 different pads
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Large display
  • 24 massage modes with 20 intensity levels
  • No adapter for non-US plugs
  • No size specified
Spacerest offers its users its newest model of electro stimulator that combines TENS and EMS technologies in a dynamic and compact device that includes 24 reusable electrodes of excellent quality and an incredible 4-channel function that will allow you to apply different modes of use to 4 different areas of the body, or even to 4 different people.

It has an incredibly portable size that will allow you to take it anywhere, and a high-powered rechargeable battery that will give you up to 20 hours of continuous use. It can be connected to AC power through its AC adapter, or to an external battery or laptop through its USB charging port.

Med-Fit - 4 channels stimulator with 8 electrodes pads for pain relief fully rechargeable
  • Type: TENS
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes: 24 Programs
  • Intensity: Not specified
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable
  • Electrodes: 8 Pads
  • Display: LCD
  • Size: Not specified
  • 4 independent channels
  • Provides cramp relief
  • Portable Device
  • Promotes tissue healing
  • 24 programs
  • Few electrodes
  • Does not specify battery life
  • Does not specify intensity and size
The Med-Fit model BAL-906ª is a very complete rechargeable electrostimulation device of premium quality that has an incredible function of 4 individual channels that will give you a great coverage and a perfect effectiveness when applying different electrical massages simultaneously. It also has a large LCD screen that makes it especially easy to operate, so you can program your sessions with great ease.

It has 24 clinically proven massage programs, which are divided into 12 TENS therapy programs and 12 muscle stimulation training modes. It has a long-life rechargeable lithium battery that will give you a great autonomy of several hours of continuous use, eliminating the extra cost of buying replacement cylindrical batteries.

Compex Sport Elite 2.0 - Combo TENS/EMS with 12 electrodes pads and 10 programs
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes/Programs: 10 Programs
  • Intensity: 5 levels
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable
  • Electrodes: 12 electrodes
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: 5.38" x 3.75" x 1"
  • Includes user manual
  • Accelerates recovery from sports injuries
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Good quality
  • Includes carrying bag
  • Few intensity levels
  • No weight specified
The Compex Sport Elite 2.0 comes to the market as one of the most versatile and complete options to increase the results of physical conditioning and reduce the negative effects of the same through its TENS stimulation technology which allows an adequate management of the odor, reducing the intensity of the same and increasing the mobility and functionality of the muscles.

It includes 10 electrostimulation modes divided into 3 recovery modes, 2 warm-up modes, 1 TENS massage mode and 4 strength training modes. It also has 5 levels of progressive intensity that will help you improve your strength, endurance and combat various ailments caused by exhaustion.

Quad Stim - Portable muscle stimulator for electrotherapy by Quad Stim with 4 channels
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes: 8 Programs
  • Intensity: Not specified
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat therapy: No
  • Battery: 4 AA
  • Electrodes: 8 Pads
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: 5.43 x 3.07 x 1.1 in - 1.1 lbs
  • Includes carrying case
  • No effort required
  • Portable device
  • Promotes tissue healing
  • Independent control mode
  • No heat therapy
  • No rechargeable battery
  • No intensity specified
The Quad Stim portable electrostimulation unit is one of the most versatile devices you will find on the market. It seamlessly combines TENS and EMS electrostimulation technologies, as well as a 4-channel function that maximizes the results of your workouts and therapies by allowing you to apply different types of massage to various parts of the body at the same time.

It has 8 customizable massage modes, which are divided into 5 TENS therapy modes, and 3 EMS stimulation modes, which together with its pulse rate adjustment function, make it one of the most versatile electrostimulation machines you can find. It works with 4 cylindrical AA batteries that give the device great portability and allow you to take it wherever you want.

Compex Edge 2.0 - Combo TENS/EMS muscle stimulation with 12 electrodes pads and 4 programs
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes/Programs: 4 Programs
  • Intensity: Not specified
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable
  • Electrodes: 12 electrodes
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: 5.38" x 3.75" x 1"
  • Improves blood circulation
  • Prevents muscle atrophy
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Good quality
  • Reduces pain symptoms
  • Does not specify intensity levels
  • Few types of programs
  • No weight specified
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.

Belifu - 4 channels TENS EMS machine with 24 modes and 30 intensity levels
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes: 24 Programs
  • Intensity: 30 Levels
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable (20 hours of use)
  • Electrodes: 10 Pads
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: Not specified
  • Includes carrying bag
  • With 30 intensity levels
  • 24 modes
  • With 10 pads
  • Timer option
  • No heat therapy
  • No size specified
The Belice brand has one of the most powerful and versatile electrostimulation units available on the market, which comes in a package with everything you may need to apply a successful electro massage therapy, from the reusable pads to a travel bag to take your device with you wherever you go.

It has 24 modes of use and 30 intensity levels that you can program individually on each of its 4 channels, so you can apply them to different parts of the body, or even different people, simultaneously. Its high-powered battery will allow you to apply electrostimulation for 20 continuous hours, and is fully rechargeable through the current or from a USB charger.

FEIHAI - TENS EMS Unit machine with 20 modes and 12 pads for pain relief therapy
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes: 20 Programs
  • Intensity: 40 Levels
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable
  • Electrodes: 12 Pads
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: Not specified
  • Features 20 modes
  • Includes 40 intensity levels
  • Portable device
  • 12 pads with different sizes
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Somewhat slow charging
  • No size specified
From the FEIHAI brand, you have at your disposal one of the most complete electric massage machines on the market, thanks to its large number of functions. Among these are its 20 predefined massage modes that will allow you to relieve any type of muscle ailment, and its 4-channel function through which you can apply different massages on various parts of the body at the same time.

It has 20 modes of use and 40 adjustable intensity levels, as well as a time controller that allows you to adjust the therapy sessions according to your needs. Its compact size makes it incredibly discreet, so you can take it to the office, on a trip, on the street or wherever you like.

Compex Wireless USA 2.0 - Wireless muscle stimulator and TENS with 16 electrodes & 10 programs
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes/Programs: 10 Programs
  • Intensity: 5 levels
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable
  • Electrodes: 16 electrodes
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: 4.25" x 2.75" x 0.75", 1 Lb
  • Wireless electrodes
  • Prevents muscle atrophy
  • Improves joint mobility
  • Reduces pain symptoms
  • TENS+EMS Combo
  • Touch screen not included
  • No battery life specified
  • No heat therapy
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.

Laspi - 4-channel TENS/EMS muscle stimulator with 20 modes and 8 electrode pads
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes: 20 Programs
  • Intensity: 40 Levels
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable
  • Electrodes: 12 Pads
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: Not specified
  • Includes 40 intensity levels
  • Portable device
  • 12 pads with different sizes
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Features 20 modes
  • Somewhat slow charging
  • No size specified
The Laspi brand of products has an electrostimulation machine designed to maximize the results of your workouts through a complete massage therapy provided by TENS and EMS technologies, which will allow you to combat acute and chronic ailments, as well as increase the results of your exercises by stimulating muscle growth.

It has a function of 4 individual channels that will allow you to apply different massage programs in various areas of the body, in addition to 3 programs that together give you more than 20 options between TENS, EMS and recovery massages, 40 levels of intensity and time control function that will allow you to define the duration of each session.

Video: How to use electrotherapy to improve my health?

Types of TENS machines and muscle electrostimulators you should know

Buying guide: What should I take into account to buy the best electro stimulator with 4 channels?

The variety of 4-channel electrostimulators that can be found on the market is very wide, so selecting the right device for your needs can become a more complicated task than expected. For these cases, it is necessary to take into account a variety of criteria to select the right electrostimulator, according to the application you plan to give to it

Types of uses

  • Type of use: 4-channel electrostimulators have a wide variety of uses thanks to their intrinsic versatility, allowing a wide coverage for strength training, muscle massage and TENS treatment.
  • User experience: this type of device requires some experience for the proper positioning of the electrodes on the areas to be treated, the correct configuration of the current output, the proper manipulation of the stimulation modes and levels.
  • Time of use: the amount of time you plan to use the electro stimulator will be a determining factor when selecting the right device, since you must keep in mind the quality of the device.

Technical characteristics

  • Channels: its 4 channels allow the insertion of 4 functional cables that facilitate the coupling of up to 8 electrodes, by means of which a great coverage is achieved in the area to be treated. It is especially useful for large areas such as the back
  • Pads/Electrodes: number of electrodes that you can use at the same time, useful to cover larger body areas such as the back, buttocks or legs, in some electro stimulators you have the possibility of adding as many electrodes as required.
  • Modes/Programs: one of the greatest advantages of this type of electrodes is that it has a large number of programs and modes of use dedicated to the treatment of ailments at different levels, as well as muscle conditioning. It is possible to find devices with up to 50 modes of use.
  • Intensity levels: these are related to each of the modes of use individually, which means that each program has a variety of levels. The number of levels each mode has will determine the depth to which the electrical impulses can work.
  • Type of screen: The type of screen an electrostimulator has determines how easy it is to use. Although touch screens offer greater accessibility to the device's functions, they can be complicated for some people. Purchasing a touch screen device will depend on the user's experience, since this feature does not influence the performance of the machine.
  • Wireless: this is a point of great importance, to which you should pay attention in case you are looking for a portable device. The most modern wireless devices work with lithium batteries and electrodes that operate via wifi network, linked to a mobile application. Again, the deciding factor will be the user experience
  • Heat therapy: this feature is very useful, and a function you should look for if your goal is to treat ailments caused by injuries or rheumatic diseases such as arthritis, osteoarthritis or gout.
  • Size: this will determine the portability of the device, and whether it will be possible to carry it on your person. The size is also usually related to the number of channels and functions available on the electrostimulator.
  • Portable: the portability of an electrostimulation device will determine the ease of spontaneous use of the device, as well as the ease with which the user will be able to carry it. This characteristic is entirely at the discretion of the purchaser.
  • Electrode pads types: higher quality devices have their own electrodes, which can only be replaced by special order. Other devices have accessibility for the use of universal electrodes. In addition, it is necessary to be aware of the compatibility of the device with electrodes of various shapes.
  • Battery type: this feature usually has a great influence on the overall cost of the device. Stimulators with a lithium battery tend to be much more expensive, but their rechargeable battery gives them a much longer service life. While devices that work with cylindrical or 9V batteries are cheaper but in the long run the expense of replacing the batteries is usually higher.
  • Pre-programmed timer: although it is not an indispensable function, it is very useful both for physiotherapists and for people who perform their own therapies. This feature makes it much easier to keep track of the duration of each session.
  • Combo: although not all electrostimulators include the TENS and EMS therapy functions simultaneously, it is one of the most versatile features that can be found, so acquiring an electrostimulator of this type is an excellent option.
  • Interferential: this function is ideal for the treatment of ailments at the muscular level whose focus is in the deep tissue layer. It is not a function that is commonly included in conjunction with TENS and EMS devices, but it is very easy to find electrostimulators dedicated to interferential therapy.
  • Warranty: Warranty periods differ between regions, suppliers and stores. In regions such as Europe, the legal minimum warranty period is two years
  • Price: this is a very important factor, but should not ultimately determine the decision to purchase an electrostimulator. Better quality devices are usually more expensive, so it is necessary to find the right balance between price, quality and warranty.

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

Although electrostimulation therapies share the principle of the use of electrical impulses, their application and functions are completely different, so it is necessary to highlight the purpose of both TENS and EMS therapy, in order to apply them correctly and get an idea of the results that will be obtained after each session.

TENS units

  • Treatment of acute pain: 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 for maintaining 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 for the use of 4-channel TENS and EMS machines

Contraindications for electrode placement

The placement of the electrodes is of utmost importance in electrotherapy, whether TENS or EMS, so here are some things to keep in mind before starting a session:

  • Symmetrical placement: the negative and positive poles of each electrode should be connected symmetrically. That is to say, if we use two pads, we should use one positive and one negative pole on each one, while if we use four, the equivalence should be two positive and two negative.
  • Do not cross the electrodes: you cannot use one electrode in the lower train and another in the upper train and more importantly, never cross the electrodes from the left side to the right side of the body and vice versa, since the current path can negatively affect the patient's health. For this reason it is always recommended to use the electrodes in a localized way.
  • Motor point: at least one of the electrodes, whether positive or negative, must be positioned over the motor point, which is the point where the greatest force is achieved in the muscle in question.
  • Control the intensity: the size of the muscle must be taken into account when choosing the intensity of the current, since the less volume and size the muscle has, the lower the tolerated intensity will be.
  • Be careful with the skin: EMS or TENS should not be used on recently depilated areas since the pores will be open and this could generate skin sensitivity. Do not use on irritated or reddened areas, open wounds or recent scars.

Contraindications for the use of electrostimulation

Being a therapy that applies currents to the body, it cannot be used for all conditions, therefore its use should be avoided in cases where the user suffers from the following conditions:

  • Epilepsy.
  • Cardiac pacemakers.
  • Circulation disorders and problems.
  • Abdominal or inguinal hernias.
  • Neurological disturbances.
  • Tendency to bleed.
  • Skin irritation, burns or wounds.
  • Diseases that affect muscle metabolism, such as diabetes.
  • Metabolic syndrome (diabetes, hypertension and obesity).
  • High uric acid levels.
  • Metabolic disorders and metabolic pathologies.
  • Inflammatory pathologies.

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