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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.

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has been linked to potential benefits like reduced stress and anxiety, as well as improved sleep. And because of this promise, more and more people are now turning to devices that are designed to target this specific nerve.

Now, stimulating the vagus nerve can be done in a couple of different ways, but most of us tend to favor solutions that save time, money, and effort — allowing us to enjoy therapy even from the comfort of our homes instead of heading to a clinic. While there are advanced, implantable devices intended for specific medical conditions, here, I'll be focusing on those that are meant solely for home use.

As I set out to find the best vagus nerve stimulation devices, I looked at 10 different options and put them through specific criteria to identify the five that I believe are the clear standouts.

Recent updates
In addition to incorporating the latest research findings on non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation and its potential benefits, the latest update revamps the article structure. We have added new sections that highlight key features, identify the target audiences for each device we reviewed, and provide a guide on what to consider when choosing non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation devices.

Best vagus nerve stimulation device: shortlist

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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 are simply looking for the best overall option on the market, I’m pointing you straight to Nurosym — a transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulator (taVNS) device that seems to check all the boxes, from commitment to scientific validation and sleek design to environmental responsibility. Keep in mind, however, that those checked boxes may come at a price.

Now, if you are 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 lower cost.

In case functionality is your central priority, Hoolest would be the one. This handheld device goes beyond just targeting the vagus nerve. It has also been 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 my recommended choice. It’s a user-friendly option that’s designed for those with busy, on-the-go lifestyles.

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. This will allow you to use the device even when doing other activities or while you are on the move.

Every vagus nerve stimulation device on our list has its own set of features, but only by considering what matters most to you — whether it's cost, convenience, sensitivity, or mobility — can you select the device that will best suit you.

Best vagus nerve stimulation device in 2024: overview

Several devices I initially considered but ultimately decided not to feature claimed to stimulate or tone the vagus nerve. However, the stimulation locations and proposed mechanisms of action lacked a solid scientific foundation.

That’s why I have focused only on devices designed to stimulate either the auricular or cervical branches of the vagus nerve, which are connected to the ear and neck areas. These sites are the most researched and are recognized in the literature as the most accessible sites for external vagus nerve stimulation.

I evaluated the final five devices based on specific criteria to help you understand how they compare. I’ll reveal those criteria later in the article. You'll also find that each reviewed device is tagged with a specific nomination to highlight its strengths. This was done to make it easier for you to find the device that best fits your needs.

1. Nurosym — best overall

Trustpilot rating — 4.3 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Nurosym device and headphone

After extensively researching the market for VNS devices, I found one that particularly impressed me. Here's why I believe Nurosym by Parasym, a 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 this list. The device is currently being evaluated in an ongoing clinical trial. 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.

Certifications and safety
Parasym medical device bears the certification mark of CE with Notified Body Reference 0197 and complies with the European Union Medical Directives — 93/42/EEC and 2011/65/EU. It has also received FDA Non-Significant Risk Designation in multiple studies in the U.S.

But the reasons don’t end there. Another reassuring aspect of 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.

Who might benefit the most from Nurosym?

If you are not just looking for a standard vagus nerve stimulation device but want the best one out there, I would recommend starting with Nurosym. It seems to tick most of the boxes and, from a quality standpoint, really feels like a top-tier device compared to the others.

  • Works through an earpiece
  • Currently being evaluated in an ongoing clinical trial, with several others already completed
  • Research version of Nurosym is a CE-certified medical device
  • Company donates 1% of all sales to grassroots environmental groups

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

Company review

Nurosym is a company that, after years of research and development with leading clinical research centers, created a product they believed was missing — an easy-to-use home therapy that, according to them, doesn’t compromise on effectiveness.

Brief summary of Nurosym

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

2. Pulsetto — best price

Amazon rating — 4.1 ⭐⭐
Trustpilot rating — 4.3 ⭐⭐⭐

Pulsetto-comm-supp

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.

Who might benefit the most from Pulsetto?

If you are just starting out with vagus nerve stimulation or are curious about the benefits but don’t want to spend a lot upfront, Pulsetto would be a great option for you. You’ll find it costs less than most of its competitors.

Key features

  • Runs on the Pulsetto app
  • Five stimulation programs
  • Nine stimulation levels
  • Worn around the neck

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

Company review

Pulsetto is a team of what they call leading experts in the fields of sleep and neuromodulation. Using the latest science and technology, it's a company that's on a mission to help people worldwide manage stress, discomfort, and sleep issues.

Brief summary of Pulsetto

Pulsetto only costs $249, 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.

3. Truvaga Plus — best for quick and gentle stimulation

Truvaga Plus

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 number of sessions, each lasting two 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.

One of the very few drawbacks is that the device is currently only available in the U.S.

Who might benefit the most from Truvaga Plus?

If you are short on time and can’t commit to long sessions, Truvaga Plus might be just what you are looking for. Its two-minute sessions make vagus nerve stimulation quick and convenient.

Key features

  • Handheld
  • User-friendly operation
  • Unlimited amount of sessions
  • Works with the Truvaga app

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

Company review

Truvaga Plus is a product of electroCore, a medical technology company that has been exploring novel applications of neuromodulation since 2005. One of their flagship products is gammaCore, an FDA-cleared non-invasive device that has been studied in clinical settings.

Brief summary of Truvaga Plus

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

4. Neuvana — best for comfort and portability

Trustpilot rating — 3.4 ⭐⭐⭐

Neuvana device and box with additional accessories

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 three 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.

Who might benefit the most from Neuvana?

Comfort and portability — if these are qualities you cherish (in a vagus nerve stimulator or just in general), Neuvana fits the bill perfectly. It’s a simple and compact device that shouldn't overwhelm you.

Key features

  • Portable
  • Works with the Neuvana app
  • Three modes — ambient, sensations, and sync
  • Integrated music listening feature

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

Company review

Neuvana is a company that has a clear mission — to better people’s lives through neuroscience. It creates products that are aimed at improving overall wellness and is always looking to the future of technology to ensure its customers have the best experience possible.

Brief summary of Neuvana

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. These are the essentials for integrating vagus nerve stimulation into your everyday life without any comfort compromises.

5. Hoolest — best for multifunctional use

Hoolest VeRelief Prime

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

What might benefit the most from Hoolest?

Are you already more advanced in vagus nerve stimulation? Or perhaps you want to go beyond the vagus nerve and explore stimulating other nerves, like the median or trigeminal nerve? If that sounds like you, Hoolest might be the right choice for you since it claims to offer that capability.

Key features

  • Handheld
  • Designed to also stimulate the median and trigeminal nerves
  • Different stimulation protocols
  • Five functional modes

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

Company review

Hoolest was born out of the frustration of dealing with anxiety and sleep problems that mindfulness practices and other wellness devices just couldn’t fix. The company is dedicated to finding better, drug-free ways for people to improve their stress recovery and mental health.

Brief summary of Hoolest

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

Comparing the best vagus nerve stimulation devices

BrandStandard product priceTechnology used App integrationMoney-back guaranteeWarrantyBest for
Nurosym€699.99taVNSNo30-day 2 yearsBest overall
Pulsetto$249.00tVNSYes30-day 2 yearsBest price
Truvaga Plus$499.00tVNSYes30-dayN/ABest for quick and gentle stimulation
Neuvana$449.00taVNSYes30-day1 yearBest for comfort and portability
Hoolest$299.00tVNSNo60-day1 yearBest for multifunctional use

How have we ranked the best vagus nerve devices?

I worked with the Healthnews Research Team for about 80 hours to rank the devices featured here. A significant portion of the work involved comparing these devices with the latest findings on vagus nerve stimulation. Here, I have summarized the main criteria I used to compile this list of the best at-home vagus nerve stimulators:

FeaturesDesignUser interfacePrice point
Modes and programsLow profile and compactClear controlsBased on market comparison
  • Features. I looked into what modes and programs, if any, the vagus nerve stimulators support and how user-friendly they are.
  • Design. I made it a priority to include devices that allow you to focus on vagus nerve stimulation without getting bogged down by complicated designs. I also considered how portable each device is.
  • User interface. I know that clear controls are essential for a positive user experience. That’s why I made it a point to avoid overly complex devices and to choose ones that are simple, practical, and can save you time.
  • Price point. During my research, I tried to narrow down the typical price range for a vagus nerve stimulation device. From there, I made sure to include devices that suit different budgets.

What are vagus nerve stimulation devices and do they actually work?

Vagus nerve stimulators (VNS) are devices that target the vagus nerve to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. They are usually divided into two categories: invasive and non-invasive devices.

While invasive vagus nerve stimulators require surgery for implantation, which makes them a more permanent but also a much pricier option, they are FDA-approved for severe epilepsy, treatment-resistant depression, and stroke rehabilitation. Although they can be highly effective, their high cost and the need for surgery typically limit their use to more serious cases.

On the other hand, non-invasive versions — external devices — are emerging as affordable, versatile, and user-friendly alternatives to invasive vagus nerve stimulation devices. But while they do 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.

Potential vagus nerve stimulation benefits

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, vagus nerve stimulation devices might influence your heart rate, breathing, digestion, and some reflexes.

VNS 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 a range of physiological functions.

Science-proven benefits of using a home vagus nerve device

Now, I'll explore some of the most studied benefits of vagus nerve stimulators. But before that, I should point out that even though these benefits have been explored in clinical research, most of the devices — including the ones I have picked — don't have regulatory approval or clearance as medical devices. This means they should be viewed as general wellness tools rather than treatments for specific health conditions.

Lowering 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).

Moreover, vagus nerve stimulation may help lower blood pressure and heart rate — two physiological markers of stress.

Diminishing depression symptoms

When vagus nerve stimulation 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.

Easing 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.

What are the disadvantages of at-home vagus nerve stimulation?

Although at-home vagus nerve stimulators do offer convenience and are easy to use, they also come with some downsides — just like anything else. One important thing to think about is the possibility of side effects.

See, 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.

If you experience any of these side effects, you should consult your primary care doctor before continuing with tVNS.

Another downside to at-home vagus nerve stimulation devices is that they often lack clinical validation and regulatory approval. This means that not only is the safety of these devices still being confirmed but their effectiveness and suitability for various health concerns are also uncertain.

What to expect when using a vagus nerve stimulation device at home

Using a vagus nerve stimulator can be quite the experience, especially if it’s your first time trying it at home. Either way, it's really important to remember that these devices aren't magic fixes. So to begin using your device, you may want to start off by first setting out realistic expectations when it comes to the timeline for results and even the sensations you might experience during the sessions.

See, timing can really vary depending on your individual health issues and what you are hoping to achieve. Current research has demonstrated just that — some trials have shown that you might feel the effects after just one session of tVNS, while in other studies, the participants received vagus nerve stimulation for several months.

As for the sensations, users tend to report feeling a gentle tingling or pulsing in their ear during stimulation, which is considered normal and is something you could expect. Just keep in mind that everyone’s experience can be different, and what you feel and the results you get might also depend on the specific device and settings you use.

If you notice a worsening of your symptoms or any health concerns, it's crucial that you consult a healthcare professional to determine whether you should continue with at-home vagus nerve stimulation.

How to choose the right at-home VNS device for you

Before you buy a vagus nerve stimulator for home use, it's important that you think through certain markers of quality ahead of time. I have identified five key areas you should pay attention to.

Scientific standards

This looks at how thoroughly each provider backs their devices with scientific research. If the device has solid scientific backing, it is more likely to deliver the desired results.

Functional adaptation

Vagus nerve stimulation 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.

Ease of use

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 model for you.

Price and value for money

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 are 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.

Can vagus nerve stimulation improve sleep?

Feeling relaxed and reducing anxiety is key to getting a good night’s sleep. On the other hand, heightened anxiety and stress can really mess with your sleep quality and even lead to insomnia. That’s where vagus nerve stimulation comes into play. Essentially, stimulating the vagus nerve might help calm both your body and mind by activating the parasympathetic nervous system.

With the recent rise in the popularity of tVNS devices, more people are using them to tackle sleep issues. It’s been proposed that combining tVNS with behavioral VNS interventions such as paced breathing may strengthen VNS's impact on sleep.

With this in mind, the overall research evidence on VNS and sleep remains mixed. Though some clinical trials have shown that tVNS could potentially benefit sleep, the evidence isn’t entirely consistent.

Conclusion

Although we still don’t have full proof of the safety and effectiveness of most VNS devices for home use, non-invasive vagus nerve stimulators are showing promise in addressing issues like stress, anxiety, and even cluster headaches.

That said, even though at-home vagus nerve stimulators are becoming more popular and easier to use thanks to rapid technology advancements, I can't refrain from noting that most of them don't have FDA clearance or approval for preventing or managing conditions. 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 trying out a vagus nerve stimulation device.


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.


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