Article by Michael Ellenberger
Bob & Brad A7 Pro Massage Gun ($99.99)
I previously sung the praises of the Bob & Brad’s Q2 Mini Pro (RTR Review) - not a product I thought I needed, but one that has quickly become a go-to in my travel and race bags. It’s one of the few travel-sized massage guns I’ve tested that genuinely punches above its weight and, at the price, a no-brainer for most runners.
I know massage guns span the spectrum of price - and I’m sure you can drop a few hundred dollars on some really nice stuff! - but for the price, I think the Q2 Mini Pro rules. And now, after I’ve spent a few weeks with the newer B&B A7 Pro, it’s clear to me - if you’re not constrained by space or portability, the A7 Pro is the one to get.
I don’t try nearly as many massage guns as I do running shoes, nor do I think they need quite as much discourse, but I’ll provide a quick overview of the basics here.
The A7 Pro is still compact enough to be stashed in a gym bag, but nevertheless feels substantial. It’s noticeably heavierat 1.3 lbs and more solidly built than the Q2 Mini (which wasn't lightweight, but was markedly more “portable” in feel).
The materials of the A7 Pro feel premium in hand, and the added weight translates to more effective deep tissue treatment, especially for runners like me who are constantly battling a perpetual achilles injury, plus the assorted calf tightness, hip stiffness, and/or the occasional achy hamstring.
Like the Q2 Mini, the A7 Pro includes both heating and cooling functionality, which might sound like a gimmick but absolutely isn’t.
The heat mode is phenomenal for loosening up problem areas before a run (I use it less now than I did in the winter, but still), and I’ve found the cooling mode surprisingly effective and enjoyable, especially when applied to tender spots like my Achilles or quads. My wife gets a kick out of a back massage with it.
Both temperature modes activate quickly, and just like with the Q2 Mini, you don’t have to wait around for them to "kick in." They last a while, but not forever - I would guess 15 minutes of coverage? 20? Long enough that for any given massage session, you can use the hot or cold the whole time, if you choose.
Where the A7 Pro separates itself is in performance and extras. It has 11mm amplitude (B&B’s term, not mine), which translates to better penetration into deep tissue compared to the Mini’s 7mm. It’s noticeable - not a deal-breaker in and of itself, but a legitimate value add.
The A7 Pro also features an LED pressure indicator, which helps ensure you’re applying the right amount of force — a small but thoughtful touch that I’ve come to appreciate during more targeted recovery sessions.
The five included attachments cover everything from large muscle groups to more precise trigger points, and the case is excellent: organized, durable, and easy to carry. Feels premium, without a (significant) premium cost.
Battery life is just as strong as the Q2 Mini, and charging is still USB-C (which is functionally a must-have these days).
My only real complaint is the same as before: the massage motor and the thermal unit charge separately, which can be mildly annoying. But again, the battery life is so solid (multiple days or weeks between charges in my experience) that it’s not a dealbreaker. But pass-through charging would be awesome.
Look, I still love the Q2 Mini. It’s terrific for travel, compact, and surprisingly powerful for its size. It’s stuck in my race bag (which I also use as a travel bag for work, as needed) and it’ll stay there.
But for home use or post-run recovery when I’m not worried about space, the A7 Pro has become my go-to. It feels more powerful, more refined, and more versatile. If you’re looking for a more premium-feeling recovery tool that still won’t break the bank, the A7 Pro is an easy recommendation. I don’t think there’s necessarily a strong need to have both unless you’re a really frequent traveler, and even considering the price difference of $30, I would choose the A7 Pro.
Bob and Brad Massage Guns
AMAZON
Michael is a patent attorney and graduate of Northwestern University Law School. Prior to law school, he competed collegiately at Washington University in St. Louis (10,000m PR of 30:21). Michael’s PRs include a 67:43 half-marathon (Chicago Half-Marathon) and a 2:20:41 marathon PR at the 2025 Houston Marathon. Michael continues to race on the roads, and is chasing a sub-2:20 marathon and potential OTQ in the future.
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