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Pulsetto vs. Sensate: Which Wearable Stress Relief Device is the Best?

We all experience stress in one way or another, whether from demanding jobs, hectic family lives, or the constant pressures of daily life. Wearable stress relief devices have become popular innovative tools offering easy and discreet ways to reduce stress and alleviate anxiety.

Pulsetto and Sensate are two strong players in this market, each with its unique approach to calming the mind and body.

In this review, we’re going to provide an in-depth comparison of Pulsetto vs. Sensate and will help you determine which wearable stress relief device best suits your lifestyle.

By understanding Pulsetto and Sensate devices' distinct features and benefits, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and take a step towards a more balanced and stress-free life.

Black and white portrait of health content researcher Rimgailė Blekaitienė, MSc Black and white portrait of health content researcher Alifia Fernandes Jokubauskienė, MPharm Black and white portrait of managing health content researcher Lauryna Nelkinė, MSc Black and white portrait of health content researcher Linas Černiauskas, PhD Candidate gabija-dimsaite
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Pulsetto vs. Sensate: Head-to-head comparison

BrandPriceWearable locationTechnologyBiometric trackingRecommended frequencySync with other apps
Pulsetto$244.00NeckTranscutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS)No
Daily for as little as 4 minutesNo
Sensate$249.00ChestInfrasonic vibrations to tone the vagus nerveNo
Daily for 10 minutesNo

How and why we chose to compare these products

When it comes to managing stress, wearable device technology has become very popular. Pulsetto and Sensate are two of the top contenders on the market, each offering potential benefits to calm the mind and body.

To be exact, both Pulsetto and Sensate devices have gained popularity in reducing stress and promoting relaxation. While they share similar goals, their technologies and use differ.

Pulsetto is considered one of the best vagus nerve stimulation devices for home use and focuses on targeting the vagus nerve via tVNS to potentially alleviate anxiety and improve sleep, while Sensate uses vagus nerve toning to target conditions associated with stress.

This technology is rather innovative, as there are no other devices on the market that claim to tone the vagus nerve. Most of the devices aim to simulate it using electrical impulses.

Another reason we chose these devices is that both Pulsetto and Sensate have garnered significant attention and positive reviews from users, which shows their great potential and appeal. Plus, both devices are very close in price.

However, given their different designs and technologies, it's natural to wonder which device offers a more effective stress-relief experience.

What is Pulsetto?

Pulsetto device in front of its box set against a white background

Pulsetto is a wearable tVNS (transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation) device that uses specific electrical pulses to stimulate the vagus nerve, a key part of the body's relaxation response.

It’s non-invasive and is easy to use around your neck. The pulses that Pulsetto emits stimulate the vagus nerve, which is important for the parasympathetic nervous system and is responsible for regulating the body's rest and digest response.

Pulsetto features a horseshoe-shaped design with two electrodes that emit gentle electrical pulses through the neck.

Pulsetto features and how to use

The Pulsetto system comes with a wearable device around your neck — the Pulsetto itself. Together with it, you get an electrode gel that needs to be used on the neck area, where the electrodes touch your skin. You control the mechanism by clicking a button on the device and managing it with an app on a smartphone.

You have to pair the mobile application downloaded via Google Play or the iOS App Store with your phone. Then, via the Pulsetto app, you’ll be able to choose from five different settings: stress, anxiety, sleep, burnout, or pain management. Each setting has nine levels, so you can find the perfect vibe for you. And to make things even more relaxing, the app has built-in music.

Pulsetto effectiveness and safety

A study conducted by the company itself found that Pulsetto effectively increased parasympathetic activity. However, it's important to note that this study may have inherent biases due to the company's involvement.

To back these claims, further independent clinical trials should be conducted and published in reputable scientific journals.

Additionally, most of the existing research on non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation devices often focuses on the auricular branch, while Pulsetto targets the cervical branch. This difference requires more extensive studies to determine the best placement and effectiveness of cervical transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation devices.

Nonetheless, consult with your physician before using Pulsetto or any other vagus nerve stimulation device.

How much does Pulsetto cost and where to buy it?

Pulsetto is available for purchase on the company's website at a discounted price of $244, including free worldwide shipping.

Together with the purchase, you get the Pulsetto Premium app free trial: three extra stimulations, 11 unique guided meditations, 54 breathing exercises, 1200 positive affirmations, and more.

You also get a 30-day money-back guarantee and a two-year warranty for your peace of mind.

What users are saying about Pulsetto

Pulsetto websiteTrustpilot ratingAmazon rating
4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐4.3 ⭐⭐⭐⭐4.1 ⭐⭐⭐

What people liked

Many users have praised Pulsetto for its easy adjustment period and results in promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Some have reported positive effects on sleep quality.

Additionally, people liked that the device was easy to use and appreciated its quick and straightforward setup process.

What people didn't like

We noticed that some users have encountered Bluetooth connectivity issues when pairing the device with the app. This can be frustrating as it may limit the device's functionality if it's not connected.

Additionally, the non-adjustable band has been a point of criticism, especially for users with larger necks who may find it uncomfortable to wear.

What is Sensate?

Sensate2 device with its app set against a white background

Sensate is a pebble-shaped, wearable device placed on your chest that targets the vagus nerve through a technology called infrasonic resonance. Infrasound waves are low-frequency sound waves that can travel deep within the body, potentially stimulating the vagus nerve and triggering the relaxation response.

Unlike other vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) devices, which use electrical impulses, Sensate uses sound waves to create frequency vibrations which are suggested to result in vagus nerve toning (VNT).

Sensate features and how to use

Unlike neck-worn devices, Sensate sits on your chest, which acts as a resonating chamber that, according to the brand, helps the vibrations reach the vagus nerve. It harnesses the power of biophilic sounds (such as bird songs and water sounds) and vibrations, combining audible and tactile sensations to calm the nervous system.

To get started download the Sensate app and place the Sensate device on your chest and connect it via Bluetooth. The app will offer you various pre-programmed sessions with different durations and goals (stress relief, sleep improvement, and so on). You can choose from those or create custom sessions.

During a session, Sensate emits gentle vibrations that synchronize with the accompanying soundscapes in the app. These soundscapes are designed to deepen the relaxation. The app's interface is uncluttered, so it doesn't overwhelm you with unnecessary features.

Sensate effectiveness and safety

Sensate has shown promising results in reducing perceived stress, anxiety, and improving sleep quality, according to preliminary in-house studies. People have reported decreased stress levels, reduced anxiety symptoms, and increased sleep duration. However, more rigorous scientific investigation is required to validate these claims.

Also, a preliminary study suggests Sensate may improve sleep quality by calming the body through vagus nerve stimulation. Users reported sleeping for a full seven hours and falling asleep within 30 minutes. Again, more independent research is needed to confirm these findings.

While Sensate can offer potential benefits, remember that it may not be a magic cure for everyone. As with other devices, we recommend reaching out to your physician before including it in your routine.

How much does Sensate cost and where to buy it?

Sensate is currently available for purchase directly from the company's website. The device is priced at $249, which includes the Sensate device, a lanyard, a charging cable, and access to the companion app.

You can purchase Sensate for $299 and get a one-year subscription to the Sensate Plus app for free.

Sensate also offers you a 40-day money return policy and a one-year warranty.

What users are saying about Sensate

Pulsetto websiteTrustpilot ratingAmazon rating
Ratings not available, only testimonials4.4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐4.1 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

What people liked

Users believe Sensate is a worthwhile investment for the results it produces, and the price tag matches its value. The device's ability to potentially tackle stress and anxiety and improve sleep quality has made it a popular choice among those who want a wearable for deeper relaxation.

What people didn't like

While the majority of customers have reported significant benefits, there have been some areas of concern. A small number of users have expressed concerns about the device's durability, reporting issues with breakage. Additionally, some have wished for a wider variety of free content and soundscapes within the app, and there have been discussions regarding battery life.

Pulsetto and Sensate vs. other stress relief wearables

BrandPriceTechnologyKey featuresApp integrationCertificationsMoney-back guaranteeWarranty
Pulsetto$244.00tVNSNeck-wearable, 5 stimulation programs, 9 levelsYesFCC30 daysTwo years
Sensate$249.00VNT via infrasonic vibrationsCustom soundscapes, soft vibrations, and lanyard includedYesMaterial Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) certification for device's batteries40 daysOne year
Apollo Neuro$349.99Wrist, ankle, or clip-on wearable, customizable app, that utilizes sound wavesWrist, ankle, or clip-on wearable, customizable app, that utilizes sound wavesYesNone30 daysOne year
Hoolest$399.95Hand-held, 5 stimulation modesHand-held, 5 stimulation modesYesNone60 daysOne year
Nurosym€699.00taVNSEarpiece, certified medical device, uses patented waveformNoCE marked30 daysTwo years
Moonbird$199.99Hand-held, breathing coachingApp with many breathing exercises, portableYesNone30 daysTwo years
Muse S$399.99Electroencephalography (EEG)'Sleeping pill' function, App metrics, Heart rate detectionYesNot specified30 daysOne year

Final verdict: Pulsetto or Sensate?

As we’ve already pointed out, both Pulsetto and Sensate offer unique approaches to stress relief, each with its strengths and weaknesses.

Pulsetto is a wearable device that uses electrical stimulation to target the vagus nerve. While it offers a more traditional stimulation method than Sensate, it's important to note that Pulsetto may not be as discreet as some other wearable devices. It's designed for home use and requires continuous gel use.

Sensate, on the other hand, uses infrasonic resonance and soundscapes, offering a more immersive relaxation experience. It's a good choice if you want a deeper level of relaxation and don't mind the chest placement. However, this innovative technology needs more research to better understand how infrasonic vibrations may impact the vagus nerve function.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on what kind of experience you want to get.

If you prioritize easy use and immersive experience, Sensate might be the better fit. If you want a tVNS device that targets the vagus nerve via the neck, Pulsetto will be a better option. Price-wise, Pulsetto is slightly cheaper than Sensate.

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