Key Takeaways
- Nurosym and Vagustim are popular vagus nerve stimulator devices that aim to improve HRV.
- Nurosym uses patented electrical signals to stimulate the brainstem via the vagus nerve, while Vagustim is an auricular device controlled by a mobile app.
- Both devices offer benefits for HRV, stress, anxiety, and sleep, but their mechanisms and features differ.
- Side effects for both devices are minimal but can include mild discomfort or skin irritation.
- Nurosym is generally more expensive than Vagustim.
- Pulsetto is a budget-friendly alternative with a neck-wearable design and mobile app integration.
Nurosym vs Vagustim Overview
Nurosym and Vagustim are two popular vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) devices. Understanding their differences can help you choose the right one for your needs.
Nurosym uses patented electrical signals to stimulate the brainstem via the vagus nerve. It was developed over eight years of research costing over $10 million. This device is backed by clinical studies and is renowned for its effectiveness in improving HRV, relaxation, mood, and sleep.
The Nurosym device control unit and the earpiece.
Vagustim is the world's first mobile app-controlled non-invasive bilateral auricular vagus nerve stimulation device. It is designed to be user-friendly, with adjustable stimulation parameters. Vagustim has also been shown to promote relaxation, mood, sleep, and healthy digestion.
The Vagustim device is worn on both ears.
Both devices can help to improve Heart Rate Variability (HRV) — the variation in time between each heartbeat, reflecting the body's ability to adapt to stress and maintain balance.
A higher HRV score is associated with better cardiovascular health, improved stress resilience, and overall well-being. Therefore, enhancing HRV through vagus nerve stimulation can lead to significant health benefits.
Nurosym vs Vagustim Comparison Table
Feature |
Pulsetto |
Nurosym |
Vagustim |
*Price |
$269 |
€699 (approx. $750) |
$390 (regular price is $790) |
Technology |
Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS), neck-wearable design |
Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS), earpiece |
Bilateral auricular vagus nerve stimulation, earpiece |
Battery Life |
Up to 1 week on a single charge and with daily use |
Up to 1 week on a single charge |
Not specified |
App Integration |
Yes, mobile app for customizing stimulation programs |
No app, app-free device |
Yes, mobile app for adjusting stimulation parameters |
Certifications |
FCC certification |
CE Mark, FDA Non-Significant Risk Designation |
ISO 13485 manufacturing standards, FCC certification |
Money-back Guarantee |
30 days |
30 days |
14 days |
Warranty |
2-year |
2-year |
Not specified |
Stimulation Programs |
5 programs designed for anxiety, burnout, pain, sleep, stress |
Not specified |
Multi-purpose programs for various conditions |
User Experience |
Neck-wearable design, gel required for conductivity, some app performance issues reported |
Earpiece design, gel recommended but not required, no app |
Bilateral auricular stimulation, app control, designed for ease of use |
*Prices were taken at the time of writing and may be different now.
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HRV Benefits
Nurosym's Impact on HRV
In several clinical studies, (summary of results shown below) Nurosym has been demonstrated to stimulate the brainstem via the vagus nerve, leading to favorable alterations in HRV parameters. This device sends patented electrical signals to the brain, activating specific therapeutic mechanisms that counter nervous system dysregulation. As a result, users experience improved HRV, stress resilience, and overall health outcomes.
- 61% increase in vagus nerve activity in 5 minutes
- 18% increase in HRV
- 19% improvement in heart muscle function
Vagustim's Effect on HRV
Vagustim also positively impacts HRV by providing non-invasive bilateral auricular vagus nerve stimulation. With 20+ clinical studies and 6 patents pending, Vagustim can help alleviate symptoms of stress, burnout, and adrenal fatigue, contributing to better HRV and overall well-being.
Side Effects
Nurosym Side Effects
Nurosym is generally well-tolerated, but some users may experience mild side effects. These can include:
- Mild discomfort or tingling at the site of stimulation
- Skin irritation or redness
- Headaches
- Dizziness
Most of these side effects are temporary and subside as the body adjusts to the stimulation. If you experience persistent or severe side effects, consult a healthcare professional.
Vagustim Side Effects
Vagustim also has minimal side effects, making it a safe option for most users. Potential side effects can include:
- Discomfort or pain in the ear
- Skin irritation at the site of electrode placement
- Fatigue
- Mild headaches
As with Nurosym, these side effects are usually temporary. If you experience any prolonged or severe symptoms, seek medical advice.
Price Comparison
Nurosym Pricing
Nurosym is a premium device with a higher price of about $750 due to its advanced technology and extensive research backing. Additionally, there may be costs associated with accessories like the charger, felt case, or replacement parts.
Vagustim Pricing
Vagustim is generally more affordable, making it accessible to a broader audience. The cost of a Vagustim device can be as low as $390 (usually $790).
User Reviews
Nurosym User Experiences
Many Nurosym users report positive outcomes, particularly in terms of stress relief and improved HRV. For instance, one user mentioned the following:
"I just love it (Vagustim). I use it on a daily basis. It makes me sleep better, feel better. I would recommend it to everyone." – Tijana
However, some users have noted the higher price point as a potential drawback. Despite this, overall feedback for the device is overwhelmingly positive, with many users appreciating its effectiveness and reliability.
Vagustim User Feedback
Currently, there are limited online reviews for Vagustim. However, the company has received a 4.6-star rating on Trustpilot based on 28 reviews. Users generally report high satisfaction with both the device's performance and the company's customer service.
While some users have experienced mild discomfort with ear electrodes, the general consensus is that Vagustim is a cost-effective and user-friendly vagus nerve stimulation device.
Pulsetto Vagus Nerve Stimulation
An image of the Pulsetto device and some of its settings
Pulsetto VNS is an accessible and user-friendly alternative to Nurosym and Vagustim, especially for those focused on improving mental and emotional well-being. Priced at $269, Pulsetto is more affordable than both Nurosym and Vagustim, which cost $750 and $390, respectively.
While all three devices use vagus nerve stimulation technology, our device stands out for its neck-wearable design and mobile app integration for the easy customization of stimulation programs.
Although Nurosym has more robust certifications and Vagustim offers unique bilateral auricular stimulation, Pulsetto provides a simpler, more affordable way to achieve a calmer, more balanced state of mind. Try Pulsetto today to experience quick stress relief and enhanced well-being, and see why it's becoming the preferred choice for many.
Experience the calming effect of Pulsetto today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are Nurosym and Vagustim designed for?
Nurosym and Vagustim are vagus nerve stimulators aimed at improving heart rate variability (HRV), reducing stress, and enhancing overall wellness. Nurosym stimulates the brainstem via the vagus nerve with patented electrical signals, while Vagustim uses bilateral auricular stimulation controlled by a mobile app.
What are the main differences between Nurosym and Vagustim?
Nurosym is an ear-worn device with advanced technology backed by clinical studies, priced at approximately $750. Vagustim, priced at around $390, uses bilateral auricular stimulation and is controlled through a mobile app, offering a more user-friendly and cost-effective option.
What are the side effects of these devices?
Both Nurosym and Vagustim have minimal side effects, which can include mild discomfort, skin irritation, or headaches. These side effects are typically temporary and decrease as the body adjusts to the stimulation.
How do Nurosym and Vagustim compare in price and certifications?
Nurosym is a premium device with a higher price tag due to its clinical backing, featuring CE and FDA Non-Significant Risk Designations. Vagustim is more affordable and is manufactured to ISO 13485 medical device standards with FCC certification.
What is Pulsetto, and how does it compare?
Pulsetto is a budget-friendly, neck-wearable, FCC-certified vagus nerve stimulator priced at $269. It offers mobile app integration for customizable stimulation programs and is an effective alternative to both Nurosym and Vagustim, focusing on accessibility and ease of use.