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

The efficiency of electrotherapy, both for the treatment of ailments and for muscular conditioning, has given rise to a wide variety of devices with different characteristics by means of which they can be easily adapted to the needs of the users.

Among this variety, we can highlight the rechargeable electrostimulators, which are powered by a lithium battery of variable duration, which you can apply on the skin to eliminate ailments and tone your muscles with a variety of programs. In the following article, you will learn everything you need to consider when selecting a rechargeable electro stimulator.

Best rechargeable electrostimulators and rechargeable TENS machines

Hi-Dow - Dual channel TENS/EMS unit for physical therapy with 8 modes & 20 intensity levels & 4 pads
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: Dual
  • Modes/Programs: 8 Modes
  • Intensity: 20 Levels
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable Lithium
  • Electrodes: 4 Pads
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: 6" x 4" x 5" - 0.63 lbs
  • TENS+EMS Combo
  • Portable and small size
  • Accelerates recovery from sports injuries
  • Includes user manual
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Battery life not specified
  • No carrying bag included
  • No heat therapy
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.

iSTIM EV-805 - Rechargeable 4-channel TENS & EMS combo machine with 24 programs & 24 pads
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 4
  • Modes/Programs: 24 Programs
  • Intensity: Not specified
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable Lithium
  • Electrodes: 24 Pads
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: Not specified
  • Includes user manual
  • TENS+EMS combo
  • Includes carrying bag
  • Reduces pain symptoms
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Battery life not specified
  • No intensity levels specified
  • No heat therapy
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.

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.

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.

AUVON - Dual channel TENS unit with 20 modes and 8 electrode pads of different sizes
  • Type: TENS
  • Channels: Dual
  • Modes/Programs: 20 Modes
  • Intensity: 20 Levels
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Heat Therapy: Yes
  • Battery: Rechargeable Lithium (up to 10 hours)
  • Electrodes: 8 Pads
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: 4.12" x 2.24" x 0.43" - 1.54 lbs
  • Reduces pain symptoms
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Includes user manual
  • Portable and small size
  • Includes carrying bag
  • Not for muscle hypertrophy
  • No heat therapy
  • No touch screen included
The AUVON electro stimulator is at the forefront of electro stimulation technology, combining TENS and EMS stimulation technologies to obtain one of the most complete treatments for acute and chronic pain, caused by injuries or illnesses, as well as an incredible complement for physical conditioning thanks to its muscle stimulation technology.

It has 20 modes of use that apply different types of massages oriented to treat a wide variety of ailments, and with its independent channel control mode you will have the possibility of configuring different programs for each of the channels individually, to apply different types of massages in various areas of the body.

NURSAL - TENS unit with Dual channel pulse massager with 24 rechargeable modes & 12 pads
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: Dual
  • Modes/Programs: 24 Modes
  • Intensity: 20 Levels
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Lithium Rechargeable (up to 20 hours)
  • Electrodes: 12 Pads
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: Not specified
  • Prevents muscle atrophy
  • Includes carrying bag
  • Improves blood circulation
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Includes user manual
  • Some electrodes dry quickly
  • No touch screen included
  • No heat therapy
The NURSAL electro stimulator features advanced dual channel technology, which allows you to set separate modes of use for channels A and B of the electro stimulator, in addition to having a memory function that allows the device to remember your preferred settings and apply them instantly, so you don't have to search through the 24 modes of use.

It has a powerful rechargeable lithium battery that gives it an incredible autonomy of up to 24 hours of continuous use, thus eliminating any worry that your sessions will be interrupted or that the AA batteries will run out. Additionally, it contains an adjustable timer that allows you to set the duration of your sessions from 10 to 60 minutes and has 20 adjustable intensity levels.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Video: How to use electrotherapy to improve my health?

Types of TENS machines and muscle electrostimulators you should know about

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

As a result of the large number of electrostimulators that exist and their different types, it is necessary to take into account certain factors in order to determine which type and model of device best meets our needs. Below, we will show you some points to take into account when selecting the most suitable electrostimulator.

Types of uses

  • Type of use: Electro stimulators can serve a variety of functions in the field of physiotherapy, and this is something to consider when selecting the one that best suits your needs. You should be clear about whether you want to relieve pain in a particular area, reduce tension in certain muscles and tone certain muscle groups without damaging the joints.
  • User experience: this factor will determine whether you opt for models with more complex functionalities, or if you prefer to purchase an electrostimulator with simple, to-the-point functions, which are easier to use.
  • Time of use: this is a point to take into account if you plan to apply EMS training in the long or short term, or if you suffer from a chronic ailment that requires long-term TENS treatment. This directly influences the quality of the electrostimulator you should select.

Technical characteristics

  • Channels: the best quality rechargeable electro stimulators have two channels for the insertion of two or more leads.
  • Pads/Electrodes: most devices have four connectors that allow them to accommodate up to eight electrodes.
  • Modes/Programs: Wireless electrotherapy devices have a variable number of programs, ranging from five to 20 programs. These programs, in most cases, must be activated and set manually within the electro stimulator.
  • Intensity levels: the best electro-stimulators can have up to 20 intensity levels within each program.
  • Type of screen: among the various types of rechargeable electro-stimulators we can find those with an analog screen, which usually have a size of 4.5 cm x 3.5 cm, with slight variations between the different models. And those with a touch screen, whose standardized size is 15 cm x 10 cm, with slight variations from one model to another.
  • Wireless: they only require physical connection to the current to charge the battery.
  • Heat therapy: the best quality electrostimulators contain the heat therapy function among their massage modalities.
  • Size: there are different models of rechargeable electrostimulators that adapt to the needs of each user.
  • Portable: this type of electrostimulators are portable, and their only requirement is to keep the power cable at hand.
  • Types of electrodes: the most recognized brands of electro stimulators customize their electrodes so that they are only functional with the pads included with the device. However, it is possible to find electro stimulators with compatibility for universal electrodes at a lower price, although their quality is usually lower.
  • Battery type: most rechargeable electro stimulators choose to work with lithium batteries, eliminating the need to use AA batteries and eliminating the risk of interrupting sessions.
  • Pre-programmed timer: certain devices have a timer function, which will be very useful in maintaining the accuracy of the duration of electrotherapy sessions.
  • Combo: most rechargeable electrostimulators apply only one type of frequency, either TENS or EMS, although the higher quality ones have the ability to apply both types of therapy. The latter are usually quite expensive.
  • Interferential: the most advanced and expensive models may include interferential therapy among their modalities of use, although there are devices dedicated to this type of therapy.
  • Warranty: the minimum warranty by law for devices of this type is two years in Europe, this figure may vary around the world, depending on the consumer protection laws of each region.
  • Price: Price can be a major factor in deciding on a device, and these come in a wide range.

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

Both electrostimulation modalities offer advantages to their users within their field of effectiveness, however, it is necessary to highlight that both TENS and EMS exert different effects on the body, so it is necessary to distinguish between the advantages that each frequency offers.

TENS units

  • Relief 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 (muscles, ligaments and tendons), 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 rechargeable 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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