Sensate vs Apollo Neuro Vagus Nerve Stimulator | HRV Benefits, Side Effects, Price & Review

Key Takeaways

• Vagus nerve stimulation reduces stress and anxiety by activating the parasympathetic nervous system.
• Sensate and Apollo Neuro are two popular devices designed for VNS.
• Sensate uses sonic frequencies synchronized with soundtracks to enhance relaxation.
• Apollo Neuro employs gentle waves of vibration to improve heart rate variability and reduce stress.
• Pulsetto is a cost-efficient alternative, offering benefits similar to those of more expensive devices.

What is Vagus Nerve Stimulation?

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a fascinating area of health technology that has been gaining traction in recent years. VNS involves using a device to send electrical impulses to the vagus nerve. These impulses activate the parasympathetic nervous system, often referred to as the "rest and digest" system, counteracting the "fight or flight" response.

You can use VNS to regulate your stress levels, improve heart rate variability (HRV), and promote overall well-being. 

Benefits of VNS

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improved sleep quality
• Enhanced mood
• Better heart rate variability (HRV)
• Increased focus and cognitive function

Sensate vs Apollo Neuro Vagus Nerve Stimulators

Sensate: Overview

Price: $299

The Sensate device is a wearable gadget designed to alleviate stress and anxiety through infrasonic technology. It is placed on the chest and emits gentle vibrations that work to soothe the nervous system - you can feel the benefits in as little as 10 minutes of use. These vibrations mimic the purring of a cat, which helps to calm your body. The accompanying Sensate app offers soundscapes that create an immersive relaxation experience. 

You can also get a Plus Pack for $349, which includes a one-year subscription to Sensate Plus - with this option, you’ll get access to all available soundscapes.

Sensate’s vagus nerve stimulation device.

Apollo Neuro: Overview

Price: $309.99 (currently reduced from $349.99)

The Apollo Neuro device is a wristband-like gadget that delivers calming vibrations, known as "Apollo vibes," throughout the body. On their site, Apollo explains that these vibes counteract the "excess of sympathetic activity"—the "fight or flight" response we discussed earlier—caused by numerous modern stressors.

You can control the device through the free Apollo Neuro app, which offers seven modes targeting different wellness goals: energy, focus, and calm.

Apollo Neuro is designed for all-day wear, and, according to the manufacturer, for the best results, you need to use it for at least 3 hours a day, at least 5 days a week.

Apollo Neuro’s VNS device with a clip and bracelet.

HRV Benefits

Heart rate variability (HRV) is a key metric for assessing overall health and stress resilience. A higher HRV indicates a more adaptable and resilient autonomic nervous system - this is important for managing stress and maintaining cardiovascular health. Both Sensate and Apollo Neuro aim to improve HRV through their unique stimulation techniques.

How Sensate Improves HRV

Sensate works similarly to Apollo by sending signals to the body that it claims can calm the vagus nerve, leading to improvements in HRV. However, instead of stimulating the nerve from the wrist, Sensate uses bone conduction to deliver signals to other parts of the body.

Other Benefits of Sensate

Besides improving HRV, Sensate offers several other benefits:

• Enhanced relaxation and stress relief
• Improved sleep quality
• Better mood and emotional regulation
• Increased focus and cognitive function

Sensate’s device with its accompanying app.

How Apollo Neuro Improves HRV

Apollo Neuro claims to deliver HRV improvements through gentle waves of vibration to the skin - and these vibrations then work to stimulate the vagus nerve, activating the parasympathetic nervous system and promoting relaxation. The device offers various modes.

Other Benefits of Apollo Neuro

Apollo Neuro provides similar benefits to Sensate:

• Enhanced relaxation and stress relief
• Improved sleep quality
• Better mood and emotional regulation
• Increased focus and cognitive function

Side Effects and Considerations

Drawbacks & Common Side Effects of Sensate

Sensate is generally well-tolerated, but some users may experience minor side effects, such as:

• Mild discomfort or irritation at the site of application
• Temporary dizziness or lightheadedness
• Initial difficulty in adjusting to the sonic frequencies

As you need to lie down to use it, Sensate is not suitable for use on the go.

Drawbacks & Common Side Effects of Apollo Neuro

Similar to Sensate, Apollo Neuro is generally well-tolerated, but some users may experience minor side effects, such as:

• Mild skin irritation at the site of application
• Temporary discomfort from the vibrations
• Initial difficulty in adjusting to the vibration modes

Some users may prefer a device that needs to be used for a shorter period of time, such as Pulsetto, which only needs to be used for 4 minutes a day.

User Reviews and Feedback

Sensate User Experiences

Customers generally express positive opinions about the Sensate vagus nerve stimulator. Many users report significant improvements in managing stress, anxiety, and enhancing relaxation. They appreciate its ease of use, the soothing effects, and the accompanying app that provides guided sessions.

Some customers note improvements in sleep quality and overall well-being. However, a few users mention that it takes time to notice the benefits, and some find the device to be on the pricier side. 

Sensate customer reviews

Apollo Neuro User Experiences

Customers' opinions on the Apollo Neuro vagus nerve stimulator are generally positive, highlighting its effectiveness in reducing stress, improving focus, and enhancing overall well-being. Many users appreciate the device's non-invasive nature and the convenience of its wearable design.

They report experiencing noticeable improvements in their mood and sleep quality. However, some customers mention that the results can vary, with a few not experiencing significant benefits. There are also comments on the high price point, suggesting it may be a barrier for some potential users.

Apollo Neuro customer reviews

Sensate vs Apollo Neuro Comparison Table

Considerations for Purchase

Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

• Budget: If cost is a major factor, Sensate's base price is slightly more appealing.
• Functionality: Apollo Neuro offers more customizable modes and uses, while Sensate focuses on immediate relaxation through soundscapes and vibrations.
• App: Both require app interaction, but the Apollo Neuro's multiple modes might offer more flexibility.
• Usage: If you’re looking for a device that you’ll only need to use for a few minutes a day, choose Sensate. If you prefer wearable devices, Apollo Neuro will be the best choice.

Vagus Nerve Stimulation with Pulsetto

So what makes Pulsetto different from those two devices? Proximity.

The truth is that there is an optimal way to stimulate the vagus nerve, and that is to target it from both sides - something only Pulsetto achieves due to its unique design.

The Pulsetto is worn around the neck like a neckband, and this design is not merely aesthetic. The vagus nerve runs from the brain to your large intestine. The left vagus nerve travels down the left side of your body, while the right vagus nerve travels down the right side of the body - it’s no surprise the vagus nerve is named after the Latin word for “wandering”!

The vagus nerve is most easily accessible in the neck area, so that’s the best spot to stimulate it.

Targeting the neck directly also results in more intense stimulation compared to trying to stimulate the vagus nerve from afar, such as from the wrist or ear. Proper placement allows the VNS device to influence the main trunk of the nerve instead of the peripheral branches, leading to more profound effects like a higher HRV.

And now with Pulsetto, you can enjoy these benefits through a purpose-built device that also retails at a more affordable price of $269.

Pulsetto targets the most potent area for VNS: the neck. 

Pulsetto can help you if you:

• Experience high levels of stress and anxiety
• Have trouble sleeping or suffer from insomnia
• Want to enhance your focus and cognitive function
• Are interested in biohacking and optimizing their body's performance

Our device comes with an app. You need to put it on your neck and turn it on - just 4 minutes a day are enough to feel its calming effect.

Experience the calming effect of Pulsetto today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a vagus nerve stimulator?

A vagus nerve stimulator is a device that sends electrical impulses to the vagus nerve, which connects the brain to various organs. This stimulation activates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping to reduce stress, improve heart rate variability, and promote overall well-being.

How does Sensate work?

Sensate uses sonic frequencies synchronized with specially composed soundtracks to stimulate the vagus nerve. The device is placed on the chest during sessions, creating a multi-sensory experience that promotes relaxation and reduces stress.

How does Apollo Neuro work?

Apollo Neuro delivers gentle waves of vibration to the skin, which stimulate the vagus nerve. The device can be worn on the wrist, ankle, or clipped to clothing and offers various modes designed to improve HRV, reduce stress, and enhance overall health.

Which device is better for anxiety?

Both Sensate and Apollo Neuro can be effective in reducing anxiety. The best choice depends on your personal preferences and needs. Sensate's combination of sound and vibration may appeal to those who enjoy a multi-sensory experience, while Apollo Neuro's customizable vibration modes may be preferred by those who want more control over their experience.