Pulsetto vs. Apollo Neuro: Which Is Better for Stress Resilience?

Due to similar proposed benefits, Pulsetto and Apollo Neuro are frequently compared. Both are promoted for stress resilience, sleep support, and heart rate variability (HRV) optimization, but Pulsetto and Apollo Neuro use different underlying technologies.

If you can’t decide which one is more suitable for you, I have compiled all the essential information in one article. I reviewed both the scientific data on these products and consumer concerns, such as pricing and brand reputation, to help you make an informed decision.

Pulsetto vs. Apollo Neuro: quick overview

Before I analyze these devices in more detail, take a look at the key features below.

	Pulsetto	Apollo
Technology	Electric pulses	Haptic vibrations
Placement	Neck	Wrist, leg, or chest
Certifications	FCC, CE	FCC
Usage recommendations	Daily, with typical sessions ranging from 4 to 20 minutes	Every day, for at least 3 hours per day
Country of origin	Lithuania	United States
Subscription	Not required, $139 per year	Not required, $99 per year
Price	From $278	$448

What is Pulsetto?

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Pulsetto is a non-invasive vagus stimulation device that sends gentle electrical pulses through the neck. This is done to potentially regulate the vagus nerve, which helps control a wide range of involuntary bodily functions, such as breathing, heartbeat, and digestion.

The device offers five stimulation programs:

• Anxiety
• Burnout
• Pain management
• Sleep
• Stress

The stimulation intensity can be adjusted at any time during your session through the application. The electrical currents of Pulsetto can be described as a tingling but tolerable sensation, although some people might find it uncomfortable. For this reason, it is recommended to use the gel that comes with the purchase.

Scientific backing behind Pulsetto

The proposed Pulsetto benefits, such as sleep support, increased stress resilience, and pain management, are supported by a growing body of research on non-invasive vagus nerve stimulators.

Studies have shown that stimulating the vagus nerve may support the body's natural ability to regulate stress responses, potentially leading to improved mood and relaxation. It's important to note that while vagus nerve stimulation shows promise, Pulsetto's cervical (neck) stimulation has been studied less than auricular (ear) stimulation.

That said, Pulsetto is actively building its own evidence base through research. For instance, one published peer-reviewed trial investigated the effects of Pulsetto on physiological responses. The findings suggested that Pulsetto may increase alpha brain waves and reduce systolic blood pressure, indicating a more relaxed state.

While other studies are either ongoing or planned, we should soon see more data on Pulsetto for various potential benefits, such as sleep support.

What is Apollo Neuro?

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Unlike Pulsetto, Apollo is technically not a vagus nerve stimulation device, although the manufacturer claims similar benefits, including support for sleep quality, better stress management, and improved focus.

In addition, the technology behind the product may appear similar. Both devices are wearable, non-invasive gadgets that deliver stimulating signals through the skin. Except that Apollo Neuro uses vibrations rather than electrical currents.

Users describe these vibrations as pleasant or at least not uncomfortable, meaning Apollo Neuro can be an alternative to vagus nerve stimulation if you experience sensitivities and prefer a gentler approach.

Scientific backing behind Apollo Neuro

Apollo Neuro has been used in several clinical trials.

For instance, one study investigated whether calming vibrations from a wearable device could support athletic recovery. The technology used in the study is licensed to the Apollo Neuro wearable. Athletes who perceived the vibrations as more calming showed an increase in HRV, reflecting greater ‘rest and recover’ activity.

A clinical trial on medical and pharmacy students found that Apollo Neuro may support burnout symptoms, while a study on patients with systemic sclerosis concluded that it may support fatigue. While the studies had relatively small sample sizes (67 and 25, respectively), these early findings suggest that Apollo Neuro may offer benefits across various contexts.

Currently, more studies are underway, including sleep quality, Long COVID-19 symptoms, and symptomatology associated with ADHD.

It's important to note that Apollo Neuro is not a vagus nerve stimulator. Vagus nerve stimulators have been more extensively studied compared to vibrational touch stimulation, the technology behind Apollo Neuro.

Pulsetto vs. Apollo Neuro: customer reviews

For this section, I looked at real-life customer reviews on platforms such as Trustpilot. Pulsetto has a ranking of 4.1 out of 5, while Apollo Neuro has 3.2. However, Pulsetto has over 2,000 reviews, while its competitor has only 214, making it harder to compare the two.

Users of both devices reported improved sleep, enhanced stress resilience, and HRV, as well as overall well-being. Pulsetto and Apollo Neuro are also praised as great additions to relaxation routines, with people stating they help them unwind.

For Pulsetto, negative feedback is mostly related to their app, which is glitchy for some users. Some are also disappointed that you can’t use this device without it, especially frustrating when it crashes. The same could be said of Apollo Neuro, and a good chunk of customers expressed disappointment due to various app bugs.

When it comes to customer service, Pulsetto has received mixed reviews. While some claim it is easy to reach their customer support team, others have had to wait for replies. Several customers have expressed dissatisfaction due to the hardships in receiving refunds. Apollo Neuro’s customer service also received many complaints about long reply times and issues with returns.

Pulsetto vs. Apollo Neuro: pricing

As both devices are not cheap, let’s compare the prices in more detail.

	Pulsetto	Apollo Neuro
Price	$278 (Lite) or $296 (FIT)	$448
Payment options	Can be paid in 4 interest-free payments	No option to pay in installments
HSA/FSA eligibility	Yes	Yes
Warranty	2 years	1 year
Money-back guarantee	30 days	30 days
Subscription	Not required, $139 per year	Not required, $99 per year
Other considerations	Requires a continuous supply of gel	N/A

When comparing the two devices, Pulsetto appears to be a better choice for those on a tighter budget, especially since installment payment options are available.

However, I would like to highlight that Pulsetto is recommended to be used with a gel, which costs $50.99 for 4 gel tubes, each containing 60 grams. This amount should last 4–6 months when used for one person. Apollo Neuro does not require any gel to be used.

Considering that the subscription to Pulsetto is also more expensive, $139 per year, Pulsetto may cost you more in the long run.

Pulsetto Lite vs. Pulsetto FIT

While both versions of Pulsetto are priced almost the same, what are the main differences?

Pulsetto Lite is the previous version, which is still available for sale. Pulsetto FIT was designed to address one of the major drawbacks of Pulsetto Lite: its one-size-fits-all approach. The original version may not be suitable for individuals with slender necks, as it can feel too large.

Pulsetto FIT features a more versatile design that better accommodates smaller necks, ensuring a more secure fit for consistent stimulation. This newest version also has an upgraded battery that should last longer with a new wave-like stimulation.

Pulsetto vs. Apollo Neuro: which one to choose?

Both Pulsetto and Apollo Neuro are wearable devices marketed for stress resilience, sleep support, and HRV optimization, but they take different approaches to achieve these goals.

Choose Pulsetto if you want a device grounded in vagus nerve stimulation, a technology with a broader scientific evidence base. Moreover, Pulsetto could also be considered as a more budget-friendly option as its upfront cost is lower, with the option to purchase the device in installments.

However, Apollo Neuro could be a valuable option for those who find the electric pulses from devices like Pulsetto overwhelming and uncomfortable. Moreover, choose Apollo if you would rather wear the device on your wrist, leg, or chest instead of your neck.

Ultimately, there is no definitive winner, as the best product will depend on your needs.