Best vagus nerve stimulation devices: Experts weigh in on their stress-reducing and mental health benefits

Best vagus nerve devices - (Nurosym)

The vagus nerve might not be something you’ve thought much about, but it’s quickly becoming a buzzword in the wellness world.

Thanks to a new wave of tech and the Netflix wellness docuseries Don’t Die, more people are discovering its role in everything from stress relief to better sleep.

This nerve, which runs from your brain all the way down to your gut, acts as a superhighway for signals that control relaxation, digestion and overall balance in the body. Now, with the rise of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) devices, there's a growing interest in how we can tap into this natural calming system to boost mental well-being without medication.

VNS devices, like those developed by companies such as Pulsetto and Apollo claim to help manage stress, improve sleep and enhance emotional resilience. With so much interest in the space, the ES Best Shopping team have looked into what these devices do, what experts think, and most importantly how they perform in real life.

What does a vagus nerve stimulator do?

The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body, extending from the brainstem through the neck, chest and abdomen, connecting to various organs including the heart, lungs and digestive tract. It plays an important role in the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's 'rest and digest' activities, helping to regulate functions such as heart rate, digestion and respiratory rate.

A vagus nerve stimulator delivers gentle electrical impulses to the vagus nerve, activating the parasympathetic nervous system. This stimulation helps shift the body from a 'fight or flight' state to a 'rest and digest' state, promoting relaxation and balance. Non-invasive VNS devices are designed for regular, short sessions of electrical stimulation and are considered safer than drugs for treating conditions like anxiety, sleep disorders and migraines.

The vagus nerve stimulator Nurosym gained attention through its feature in the Netflix documentary Don’t Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever. The film positioned it as an important tool in the longevity movement, emphasising its role in improving quality of life and extending health spans.

Meanwhile, there’s been a jump in interest for Nurosym devices, with a 396 per cent rise in searches for the device in the last year alone. Research from the device shows users have been using the device to improve sleep, ADHD, mental health and stress, with some using the device to support long-term COVID-19 symptoms that they are still experiencing after the pandemic.

What do the experts say?

Experts acknowledge the potential benefits of VNS devices in managing stress and improving mental health. “Preventive wellness practices and longevity are rapidly becoming central to health innovation,” said Povilas Sabaliauskas, stress management expert and Pulsetto co-founder. “We have to be proactive and use available solutions that can get faster results to recover from stress instead of waiting for a nervous breakdown. VNS devices have already proved how advanced drug-free solutions can address mental health challenges. I believe that by helping users manage stress, improve sleep, and enhance recovery, we’re contributing to a broader shift toward proactive, sustainable health practices.”

Since 2024, the device has had API integrations that allow users to monitor heart rate and heart rate variability (HRV) in real-time. It offers a more personalised approach to stress management.

Dr. Charlotte Lee-Sinclair from the Nurosym team says: "Our neuromodulation technology is on the bleeding edge of science. Medical school never taught us to modulate the parasympathetic nervous system but the awareness of how critical this is to managing symptoms across a wide range of symptoms and conditions is growing. The fact that we're now able to identify the specific vagal nerve fibres that activate different areas of the brain stem is amazing but there's still more to be done. We know that inflammation and stress contribute to 75 to 90 per cent of chronic conditions, but backed by the most robust evidence base, we're now able to tackle this head-on with a non-invasive and unobtrusive device that fits into the modern lifestyle."

How we tested

To really see if vagus nerve stimulation devices live up to the hype, different members of the ES Best Shopping team put them to the test in situations where stress and focus were major factors.

I have ADHD, which means my brain is often in overdrive. I struggle to focus during the day and switching off at night is a challenge. I usually have to push myself to exhaustion at the gym just to get to sleep, so I wanted to see if these devices could help me wind down in a more natural, sustainable way. I also tested them before big social events, where my ADHD-fuelled social anxiety usually kicks in.

Other members of the team tried these devices for focus at work and better sleep because we all experience brain fog and restless nights sometimes. I also asked a friend with ADHD and autism to try one out before heading to his high-stress job. He often struggles with sensory overload and anxiety at work, so this was a real test to see if vagus nerve stimulation could help regulate his nervous system before a demanding shift.

With a mix of neurodivergent and neurotypical testers, the ES Best Shopping team wanted to find out whether these devices really work for anyone looking to calm a racing mind, improve focus, or simply get a better night’s sleep.

Read on for the best vagus nerve devices.

Apollo Neuro Wristband

While not a miracle to combat mental health challenges, Apollo Neuro does offer some wellness benefits.

The Social setting, in particular, stood out for me. Its gentle vibrations helped calm my nerves before social events, offering a level of comfort and confidence I hadn’t anticipated. While some settings like Focus and Fall Asleep didn’t have the same impact on me, the Social mode alone makes this device worth considering.

Design-wise, it’s not the most stylish gadget on the market. The band can feel a bit bulky, and when worn on the ankle, it does resemble something you might see on a house arrest monitor. However, its functionality makes up for this. It comes in a few colours, but I suggest a darker colour as the band can get grubby quickly.

Battery life is decent but not exceptional, with roughly two days of use on a full charge. If you’re using it overnight, expect around seven hours of use before needing a recharge. This is something to consider if you plan to use it throughout the night regularly.

It’s certainly an investment, but for anyone looking for an alternative to medication or traditional therapy for managing mood, anxiety, or sleep, the Apollo Neuro offers a smart, non-invasive solution. Though it might not be a cure, it’s a thoughtful wellness tool that can make a real difference in the way you handle daily challenges.

Buy now £306.99, Healf

Nurosym Wearable Neuromodulation Device

By stimulating the vagus nerve with precise electrical signals, it helps regulate the nervous system and supports overall well-being. Backed by rigorous clinical trials from leading research institutions, Nurosym offers a non-invasive way to manage stress, inflammation and nervous system imbalances - key factors linked to a wide range of chronic conditions.

Developed with medical-grade precision, this certified device is made to fit into modern routines, offering a discreet and effective approach to nervous system support. As the science of neuromodulation advances, Nurosym stands at the forefront, bringing a research-backed solution to those looking for an effortless way to enhance resilience and long-term health.

Buy now £1008.00, Amazon

Pulsetto Vagus Nerve Stimulator

While Pulsetto might not be a magic cure for anxiety, it did something surprisingly effective; it forced me to stop, breathe and zone out. In a world where my mind is constantly racing, that brief moment of stillness was enough to shift my state entirely. I found myself more reflective, less reactive and generally calmer.

The gentle stimulation of the vagus nerve is designed to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps the body switch from fight-or-flight to rest-and-digest mode. I noticed my heart rate slowing, my thoughts quieting and a sense of ease settling in. It wasn’t an instant transformation, but the more I used it, the more I found myself naturally slipping into a relaxed state which is something I usually have to work hard to achieve.

It’s also effortless to use. Just four minutes, and I could feel the tension starting to melt away. Unlike meditation or breathwork, which require focus and discipline, Pulsetto does the work for you, making it perfect for those moments when you feel too overwhelmed to even try. While it’s not a replacement for other anxiety management strategies, it’s a tool that helps create the conditions for calm which is something I didn’t realise I needed until I tried it.

Buy now £244.00, Pulsetto

Sensate V2

Unlike other stress-management tools that require effort or practice, Sensate works passively. You don’t have to learn breathing techniques or master meditation; just lie back, place it on your chest, and let it do the work. It’s designed to stimulate the vagus nerve, helping to shift the body out of fight-or-flight mode. Within a few minutes, I felt a light physical sense of relief.

Developed through years of research, Sensate has been designed to use modern technology with ancient relaxation principles. The soundscapes, combined with the gentle resonance, create an easy way to carve out moments of calm, whether at home or on the go.

Buy now £280.49, Healf

Vagustim Vagus Nerve Stimulator

Using gentle electrical stimulation through the ear, Vagustim taps into the body’s natural ability to regulate stress, improve heart rate variability and even support gut health.

This one is backed by serious research including studies from Harvard, supporting its claims in promoting nervous system balance. The ear electrodes come in different sizes, so it’s easy to get a comfortable fit, and the app lets you fine-tune the settings for a more personalised experience.

It’s small, lightweight and battery-powered, making it easy to use at home or on the go. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, sleep issues or just looking for a way to reset after a stressful day, this non-invasive approach is a simple, science-backed option.

Buy now £281.98, Amazon

Lase Locks Vagus Nerve Stimulation Device

This vagus nerve stimulator is designed for relaxation and stress relief, using gentle ear clip stimulation to help calm the nervous system. It claims to be a natural, non-invasive way to support better sleep and emotional well-being.

With a simple touch-screen interface, it’s easy to customise the intensity and duration of each session, and it automatically shuts off when done so there’s no need to worry about overuse.

Compact and lightweight, it’s ideal for use at home, in the office or while travelling. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, sleep issues or just looking for an easy way to unwind, this device offers a straightforward solution that fits into daily life.

Buy now £99.99, Amazon