⚡ Power Comparison Calculator

Calculate power value score based on amplitude, stall force, and price

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Calculator Inputs

Depth of percussion (typical: 10-16mm)
Pressure resistance (typical: 30-60 lbs)
Purchase price for value calculation
Maximum percussions per minute (optional)

Results

Enter power specs and click Calculate

Understanding Massage Gun Power

What is amplitude and why does it matter?

Amplitude is the depth each percussion stroke travels into the muscle tissue:

  • 6-10mm: Light/surface muscle treatment. Good for warm-up, sensitive areas, or light recovery.
  • 10-12mm: Standard depth. Suitable for most users and muscle groups. Most popular range.
  • 12-14mm: Deep tissue penetration. Excellent for athletes, large muscle groups, chronic tension.
  • 14-16mm: Professional grade. Reaches deep muscle layers for serious athletes and therapeutic use.
  • 16mm+: Maximum depth. Premium models for professional therapists and serious athletes.

Important: More amplitude isn't always better. Too much depth on sensitive areas can cause bruising or discomfort.

What is stall force and why is it important?

Stall force is the amount of pressure (in pounds) you can apply before the motor slows down or stops:

  • 15-25 lbs: Budget models. Motor stalls easily under pressure. Struggles with deep tissue work.
  • 25-35 lbs: Entry-level. Adequate for light to moderate pressure. May stall on large muscle groups.
  • 35-45 lbs: Mid-range. Good resistance. Handles most muscle groups and pressure levels well.
  • 45-55 lbs: Premium performance. Excellent for deep tissue, athletes, professional use.
  • 55+ lbs: Professional grade. Motor never stalls even under maximum pressure.

Why It Matters: Low stall force means the gun slows down when you press harder, reducing effectiveness. Higher stall force maintains speed and percussion even under firm pressure.

How is the Power Value Score calculated?

The Power Value Score combines multiple factors:

Formula: (Amplitude × Stall Force) / Price × 100

What this means:

  • Higher amplitude + higher stall force = more power
  • Divided by price = power value per dollar
  • Multiplied by 100 for readable scores

Example Calculations:

  • Budget Model: 10mm × 30 lbs / $80 × 100 = Score: 37.5
  • Mid-Range: 12mm × 40 lbs / $150 × 100 = Score: 32.0
  • Premium: 16mm × 60 lbs / $300 × 100 = Score: 32.0

Insight: Budget and premium models can have similar scores if premium features justify higher prices.

What's a good power score?

Power scores help compare value across price ranges:

  • Score 40+: Outstanding value. Excellent power for the price. Top recommendations.
  • Score 30-40: Good value. Solid power-to-price ratio. Most mid-range models fall here.
  • Score 20-30: Average value. May have premium features (quiet motor, design) justifying price.
  • Score 10-20: Below average. Paying premium for brand or features, not raw power.
  • Score under 10: Poor value. Overpriced for power delivered.

Important: A lower score doesn't mean a bad product. Premium brands often score lower but offer better build quality, quieter operation, longer warranty, or advanced features.

Beyond the numbers: Other factors to consider

Power isn't everything. Also evaluate:

  • Noise Level: Quieter motors (under 40dB) are more pleasant but may score lower on pure power.
  • Ergonomics: Comfortable grip and weight distribution matter for extended use.
  • Battery Life: More power often means shorter battery life. Balance is key.
  • Build Quality: Premium materials last longer even if power score is similar to budget models.
  • Attachments: Number and quality of massage heads add value beyond raw power.
  • Warranty: Longer warranties (2+ years) indicate manufacturer confidence.
  • Speed Levels: 4-6 variable speeds provide better control than just high/low.
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