The 5 Best Vagus Nerve Stimulation Devices on the Market in 2024

The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve and the main component of the parasympathetic nervous system. It stretches from your brain all the way down to the upper part of your colon, connecting to various internal organs and playing a key role in their function. Since it's involved in what is referred to as the "rest and digest" processes, the vagus nerve is critical for keeping your body balanced by influencing your heart rate, digestion, and breathing, among other things.

And when it comes to therapies, there’s a method of stimulating the vagus nerve that may potentially reduce stress and anxiety and even improve sleep quality. We’re going to focus on non-invasive devices and share what we think are some of the best vagus nerve stimulation devices (VNS) to help you make an informed choice.

Best vagus nerve stimulation device: shortlist

• Nurosym — overall best vagus nerve stimulation device
• Pulsetto — best cost-effective vagus nerve stimulation device
• Hoolest — most multifunctional vagus nerve stimulation device
• Truvaga Plus — best for quick and gentle stimulation
• Neuvana — most comfortable and portable vagus nerve stimulator

How much do vagus nerve stimulation devices cost?

Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulator (tVNS) devices typically range from $200 to $700, according to our research. Keep in mind, though, that the initial prices you see are, at times, just starting points. There might be nuances that could affect the final cost, either up or down. So, it’s a good idea not to rush the selection process. We’ve covered everything you need to know about the pricing structure for the tVNS devices we reviewed in the table below.

Most top tVNS device providers, including some featured in this article, recommend consulting your doctor if you have any preexisting medical conditions or an implanted device, like a pacemaker.

Best vagus nerve stimulation devices: our picks explained

When it comes to stimulating the vagus nerve to reap the proposed benefits, such as reduced stress and anxiety, finding the right device can make all the difference.

So, if you're simply looking for the best overall option on the market, we’re pointing you straight to Nurosym — a tVNS device that appears to check all the boxes, from commitment to scientific validation and sleek and easy-to-use design to environmental responsibility. Keep in mind those checked boxes may come at a price.

Now, if, on the other hand, you’re mindful of the price, Pulsetto would be a practical choice — it doesn’t seem to compromise on performance compared to others and comes at a cheaper expense.

In case functionality is the central priority of yours, Hoolest is the one — this handheld device goes beyond just targeting the vagus nerve. It has been also suggested to stimulate the median nerve in your wrist and the trigeminal nerve in your forehead.

For an experience that’s both gentle and quick, the updated version of Truvaga 350 — Truvaga Plus — is our recommended choice. It’s a user-friendly option that’s tailored for those with more sensitive needs.

And lastly, if you need a device that’s portable and practical, don’t look past Neuvana. See, Neuvana’s Xen pairs with special earbuds and your smartphone via the Neuvana application, allowing you to use it even when doing other activities or while you're on the move.

Best vagus nerve stimulation device in 2024: overview

Here, we'll review five non-invasive VNS devices, looking at them through our five main criteria to help you see how they stack up against each other. We have tagged each of the reviewed devices with a specific nomination to highlight its strengths. This, we hope, will make it easier for you to find the device that best fits your needs.

1. Nurosym

Try Nurosym now

Amazon rating — not on Amazon

Trustpilot rating — 4.4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

After extensively researching the market for VNS devices, we found one that particularly impressed us. Here's why we believe Nurosym by Parasym, a transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) device, is the best on our list.

According to its makers, Nurosym is designed for those battling anxiety, depression, stress, and fatigue. It leverages innovative neuromodulation — to put it simply, the device uses signals transmitted through an earpiece to the brain via the vagus nerve. This process may modulate nervous system activity and potentially support various aspects of physical and mental health.

Nurosym's commitment to scientific validation is a major reason why it sits atop our list. The device is currently being evaluated in an ongoing clinical trial, and what further solidifies this commitment is that the research version of Nurosym, known as the Parasym device, has already been tested in several clinical trials and is a CE-certified medical device in Europe.

But the reasons don’t end there. Another reassuring aspect of the Nurosym is the confidence the company has in its product. They offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, which means you can try it risk-free. If it doesn't meet your expectations, you can get a no-questions-asked refund.

The brand's environmental responsibility is another highlight. Parasym donates 1% of all sales to grassroots environmental groups, so purchasing a Nurosym means contributing to a greater cause.

All things considered, if you’re someone who’s looking for a reliable VNS device to help you in your efforts to manage anxiety, stress, and other related issues, we think Nurosym should be the first one you consider. It is available for €699.

What users liked most about the device

• Immediate effects within weeks
• Long-lasting benefits
• Works as advertised

What users disliked about the device

• Expensive price point
• Customer service takes their time to respond
• Location-based pricing

2. Pulsetto

Try Pulsetto now

Amazon rating — 2.9 ⭐⭐

Trustpilot rating — 3.7 ⭐⭐⭐

For those interested in benefiting from vagus nerve stimulation without spending a fortune, there's Pulsetto. It's a wearable tVNS device that, despite its lower price point, doesn't seem to compromise on performance.

The device itself is powered by the Pulsetto application, which is relatively easy to use and includes five stimulation programs with nine stimulation levels. These programs are designed to address the following:

• Anxiety
• Burnout
• Pain management
• Sleep
• Stress

You can adjust the stimulation intensity via the app at any point during your relaxation session.

Pulsetto, as explained on the brand's website, should be worn around the neck. For optimal performance, make sure to use electrode gel first, which acts as a conductive medium to help the electrical pulses reach your skin as intended. Since the device is neck-wearable, you can use it while relaxing, working, or stretching.

Though Pulsetto is designed to be adjustable for different neck sizes — having tested it ourselves — we cannot help but note that the device might not be the best choice for those with slender necks, as it may simply be too big. This could prevent the electrodes from making proper contact with the skin, which is necessary for effective vagus nerve stimulation.

Pulsetto only costs $219, a price point that is actually the lowest on this list. The device also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try it risk-free.

What users liked most about the device

• Great value for money
• Ease of operation
• Battery lasts relatively long


What users disliked about the device

• App performance
• Gel dries relatively quickly
• Customer service needs improvement

3. Hoolest

Try Hoolest now

Amazon rating — not on Amazon

Trustpilot rating — yet to receive any ratings

While Hoolest offers two tVNS devices — the VeRelief Mini and the VeRelief Prime — we focus on the latter, which is larger and has a higher power output.

Hoolest VeRelief Prime is a handheld electrode device that targets more than just the vagus nerve. According to its makers, it can stimulate the vagus nerve behind your ear, the median nerve in your wrist, and the trigeminal nerve in your forehead. This is why we consider it one of the most multifunctional devices on our list.

We found the different stimulation protocols Hoolest offers particularly useful. They range from quick sessions of less than two minutes, perfect when combined with breathing techniques, to a calming 10-minute protocol ideal before bed. The five functional modes, each varying in intensity, are suggested to enhance the parasympathetic nervous system activity and help you achieve the following effects:

• Enhance relaxation
• Improve mood
• Reduce heart rate

Considering all that Hoolest has to offer, if you're in the market for a highly functional and adaptable tVNS device, the VeRelief Prime, priced at 299, looks to us like the go-to choice. The brand backs its product with a 60-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year warranty.

What users liked most about the device

• Easy to integrate into daily routines
• Long-lasting and comfortable electrodes
• Multiple modes

What users disliked about the device

• Stinging sensation
• Did not perform well on dry skin
• Feel of low-quality build

4. Truvaga Plus

Try Truvaga Plus now

Amazon rating — not on Amazon

Trustpilot rating — yet to receive any ratings

Truvaga Plus is the upgraded version of Truvaga’s original 350 model — it’s the brand’s latest handheld vagus nerve stimulator that stands out among its alternatives on our list for its user-friendly operation. It is designed for quick sessions and gentle stimulation of the cervical branch of the vagus nerve in the neck.

According to the manufacturer, their device offers a simple, all-in-one solution to:

• Reduce stress
• Enhance sleep quality
• Promote calmness
• Improve mental clarity

While the original model included up to 350 sessions, Truvaga Plus now offers an unlimited amount of sessions, each lasting 2 minutes.

Another new feature of Truvaga Plus is that it now comes with a free integrated app. This offers a user-friendly way to control and customize sessions, plan schedules, and track progress. Besides, Truvaga Plus is now rechargeable, eliminating the need for batteries.

On the contrary, one of the very few drawbacks is that the device is currently only available in the U.S.

With a price tag of $499, Truvaga Plus is far from being the cheapest among VNS devices. Despite this, we think that those who place importance on convenience and gentler stimulation would find this newest Truvaga model worth the investment.

What users liked most about the device

• Noticeable benefits
• Easy to customize settings
• Good customer support

What users disliked about the device

• Instructions were not clear
• New features are marginal when weighed against the higher price
• Having to connect to the new app was not something everyone appreciated

5. Neuvana

Try Neuvana now

Amazon rating — not on Amazon

Trustpilot rating — 3.4 ⭐⭐⭐

Neuvana's Xen wins the race for the most comfortable and portable vagus nerve stimulator among its alternatives, at least those on our list. Here's why we're backing this device.

The Xen taVNS device is an electroceutical that pairs with your mobile phone via the Neuvana application. We particularly appreciated the flexibility it offers. With the special earbuds and the Xen unit connected to the Neuvana app on your smartphone, you can use the device anytime and anywhere — even while walking or doing light stretching exercises.

The app includes 3 modes, referred to as sessions, defined by the sound you want to hear while using Neuvana's Xen:

• Ambient
• Sensation
• Sync

Ambient mode uses the microphone to synchronize electrical impulses to ambient sound around you. Sensation mode, primarily for beginners, presents a rhythmic pattern you choose from the app. Finally, Sync mode lets you listen to any type of music while using the taVNS device.

The Xen by Neuvana system is priced at $449 if buying the most straightforward package. For an additional $50, you can purchase a companion bundle that includes an extra pair of headphones, a protective sleeve, and a travel case — a deal worth cashing in for frequent travelers or those who prefer having spare accessories on hand.

All things considered, Xen seems to hit the mark when it comes to practicality, portability, and versatility — what really are the essentials for integrating vagus nerve stimulation into your everyday life without any comfort compromises.

What users liked most about the device

• Exceeds expectations
• Easy enough to carry around
• Sleek and shiny design

What users disliked about the device

• Setting up the app wasn’t a smooth ride
• After prolonged use, the headphones lost a measure of sound fidelity
• Website doesn't clarify potential extra charges for imports and taxes

How to choose the best vagus nerve stimulation device?

When on the lookout for the best vagus nerve stimulation device, it's important to take into account certain markers of a quality product. We have identified five key points:

• Scientific standards. This looks at how thoroughly each provider backs their devices with scientific research. A device supported by strong studies gives a more credible foundation for the engineers, marketers, and the brand behind it.
• Functional adaptation. VNS devices can differ in their form, functionality, and the technology used for stimulation. Some devices also come with a mobile app for pairing, so the functionality aspect is definitely something to consider.
• Accessibility. Devices operating on advanced technology can sometimes feel overwhelming. Ease of use and quick access are crucial factors to think about when choosing the right vagus nerve therapy for you.
• Pricing. High-tech devices can be expensive, and a high price might put some people off. It’s important to carefully think about what type of device you need and how much you’re willing to spend.
• Return and warranty policy. A good return policy is one of the essentials if the device doesn’t live up to its promises. The same goes for warranties on defective devices.

Comparing different vagus nerve stimulation devices

Selecting the best VNS device means considering several options, each bringing its own set of features and benefits, as well as some drawbacks. Let’s see how some of them fare against one another.

• Nurosym vs. Pulsetto. The Nurosym taVNS device is the more expensive option at $699, but it has made strides toward scientific validation, as it has been evaluated in some clinical trials. It’s believed to have therapeutic potential for certain mental health issues and long-term COVID-19 symptoms using earpiece-based stimulation. Pulsetto, on the other hand, is a much more affordable option and comes with user-friendly programs through its app. However, it doesn’t offer the same level of scientific credibility as Nurosym.

• Truvaga vs. Pulsetto. Truvaga is priced at $299 and offers quick, gentle stimulation without the need for an app, which makes it really easy to use — ideal for those who prefer a straightforward approach. In contrast, Pulsetto, at $269, is supposed to be worn around the neck and comes with a customizable app to help you navigate and use the device. In short, while Truvaga keeps things simple, Pulsetto provides more programmable features.

• Pulsetto vs. Hoolest. Hoolest, priced at $399.95, may stimulate not only the vagus nerve but also the median nerve in your wrist, and the trigeminal nerve in your forehead. Both Pulsetto and Hoolest feature 5 stimulation modes, so you can experiment with different intensities and find what feels most comfortable for you.

What is a vagus nerve stimulation device?

Vagus nerve stimulators are devices that target the vagus nerve to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. They usually come in two types:

Invasive vagus nerve stimulation devices (VNS)

Invasive VNS devices require surgery for implantation, which makes them a more permanent but pricier option. They are FDA-approved for severe epilepsy and treatment-resistant depression. And while they can be highly effective, their high cost and the need for surgery mean they’re usually reserved for more serious cases.

Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation devices (tVNS)

Non-invasive VNS devices or tVNS devices are external devices that send electrical impulses through the skin, usually through electrodes placed on the neck or ear. These devices are being explored as a more affordable, versatile, and user-friendly alternative to invasive vagus nerve stimulators. However, their long-term safety and efficacy are still to be established.

How do vagus nerve stimulation devices work?

Vagus nerve stimulation, especially with tVNS devices, can be seen as a form of biohacking — a DIY change-driven approach to therapy that targets your parasympathetic nervous system.

The vagus nerve plays a big role in controlling the function of internal organs like your heart, lungs, and digestive tract. By stimulating this nerve, tVNS devices might influence your heart rate, breathing, digestion, and some reflexes.

tVNS devices work by sending electrical pulses that create a slight tingling sensation on your skin. These signals travel through the vagus nerve to your brain, potentially influencing brain activity and related physiological functions.

Typically, tVNS devices are placed near the vagus nerve’s anatomical regions. For instance, some devices clip onto the tragus or are positioned in the concha of the ear, as the auricular branch of the vagus nerve innervates these parts of the ear.

As of today, there isn’t a lot of conclusive scientific evidence on the best placement for tVNS. However, it’s generally thought that targeting the auricular and cervical branches of the vagus nerve is likely the most effective approach.

How effective are vagus nerve stimulation devices?

While non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation devices hold promise in addressing issues such as stress, anxiety, and even cluster headaches and are generally well tolerated with minimal side effects in clinical research settings, the safety and effectiveness of most commercially available VNS devices for at-home use have not been established.

Even though these devices are becoming increasingly popular and user-friendly — this is largely because of rapid technological advancements — we can’t refrain from noting that most at-home vagus nerve stimulators lack FDA clearance or approval for condition prevention or management. This is why it's imperative to approach any therapeutic claims you may come across on brand pages with caution and seek medical advice before using a vagus nerve stimulation device.

What you can manage with a vagus nerve stimulation device

Here are a few of the potential benefits of tVNS:

• Lowering stress and anxiety
• Improving sleep quality
• Reducing depression symptoms
• Easing headaches and migraines

While these potential benefits have been explored in clinical research, most of the devices, including those we’ve selected, lack regulatory approval or clearance of a medical device. They should be regarded as general wellness devices that are not intended to treat or cure any disease.

May lower stress and anxiety

The vagus nerve is involved in shifting your body from the so-called fight-or-flight response to a calmer, more relaxed state, so stimulating it could potentially lower anxiety and stress levels.

Studies using brain imaging, blood biomarkers, and wearable devices have found that tVNS may have a positive impact on stress physiology. The technology seems to influence several neurotransmitter systems, including serotonin and norepinephrine.

Stimulating the vagus nerve can activate parts of the brainstem that project to areas in the brain involved in regulating emotions. This can be particularly useful for people dealing with stress-related conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

May improve sleep quality

Stress-related mental health issues, including anxiety, can impair sleep quality and lead to insomnia.

In simple terms, vagus nerve stimulation may result in a calmer body and a calmer mind by activating the parasympathetic nervous system.

Since VNS's popularity has skyrocketed, the use of tVNS for managing sleep issues has been continuously observed. It’s been proposed that combining tVNS with behavioral VNS interventions such as paced breathing may strengthen VNS's impact on sleep.

Clinical trials have shown that tVNS may have potential benefits for sleep, but the overall research evidence remains mixed.

May diminish depression symptoms

When VNS was approved for treating treatment-resistant depression in 2005, tVNS device makers started looking at how they could tackle the same issue from their angle.

We don’t fully understand exactly how tVNS affects depression yet. One of the proposed hypotheses suggests that tVNS may impact neurotransmitter systems like serotonin, norepinephrine, and GABA, which play a role in depression. Animal models of depression show that tVNS might also have anti-inflammatory benefits, leading to antidepressant effects. However, this has not been confirmed in studies with human participants.

Several studies suggest that tVNS is generally well tolerated and may help improve depressive symptoms. However, since only a few studies have been conducted so far, it's hard to draw any firm conclusions.

May alleviate headaches and migraines

In 2017, the FDA cleared the first prescription tVNS device for managing episodic cluster headaches and migraines.

Since then, several other tVNS devices have hit the market, each claiming to help lessen the intensity and frequency of migraine pain. While the exact way these devices work is still being studied, it has been proposed that tVNS may reduce inflammation, influence pain signals, and potentially modulate activity in different brain regions that are involved in the pathophysiology of migraine. When the vagus nerve is stimulated, auricularly at a low frequency of 1 Hz, it tends to alleviate migraines and cluster headaches. Cervical VNS — vagus nerve stimulation on the neck — has also shown some promise for controlling migraines.

The main areas needing more research are the best stimulation parameters and locations for treating migraines and headaches with tVNS.

Are there side effects of vagus nerve stimulation?

Side effects of vagus nerve stimulation depend, to some extent, on whether it is administered invasively or non-invasively. While non-invasive methods do not carry surgery-related risks, they are nevertheless associated with some stimulation-related side effects.

A systematic review published in the Brain Stimulation journal found that tVNS is generally safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effect is skin irritation, which might include itching, redness, or a tingling feeling. Other less common side effects can include:

• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headaches
• Heart palpitations
• Nasopharyngitis — inflammation of the nose and throat

It's important to note that while these side effects are noted for clinical tVNS devices used in research, we don't yet know as much about the safety of many at-home tVNS devices. Little is known about the risks that these devices may pose, so closely monitoring how you feel in response to tVNS is crucial.

How else can you stimulate the vagus nerve?

Besides using a commercially available tVNS device at home, several traditional methods have been proposed to potentially stimulate the vagus nerve.

• Gargling. Vigorous gargling activates the muscles at the back of your throat, which may potentially stimulate the vagus nerve.
• Singing. Loud singing engages the muscles at the back of your throat, which has been suggested to influence the activity of the vagus nerve in a similar way as gargling.
• Deep breathing. Techniques like the 4-7-8 method engage the diaphragm, which may also help stimulate the vagus nerve.
• Cold showers. Sudden exposure to cold temperatures can trigger the parasympathetic response, including the enhanced activity of the vagus nerve.
• Yoga and meditation. Practices like yoga and mindfulness can positively influence vagal tone and overall vagus nerve function.

Despite the promise, there haven't been many clinical trials specifically looking at these natural methods, especially compared to the research on electrical vagus nerve stimulation.

Further important reading on stress and anxiety management

Top nootropic products for effective anxiety and stress relief.

Best nootropics overall in the market right now.

Mobile applications designed to help users improve overall mental health.

CBD oils are known to deliver some stress and anxiety relief.

Neurofeedback devices might stimulate cognitive functions and improve mental well-being.

Pulsetto vs. Apollo check which one is best for your needs.

Article history

Our experts strive to provide up to date information and update articles when new information becomes available

August 28, 2024

Expert reviewed by Healthnews Research Team

August 28, 2024

Updated by Dominykas Krimisieras

May 23, 2024

Updated by Dominykas Krimisieras

June 19, 2023

Expert reviewed by Healthnews Research Team

June 19, 2023

Written by Vytautas Palubeckas