iSTIM EV-805 vs Compex TENS 2.0 - Clinical Comparison

Compare iSTIM EV-805 and Compex TENS 2.0 side-by-side with clinical performance scores, FDA status, pricing, and expert recommendations

iSTIM EV-805
85 /100
VS
Compex TENS 2.0
86 /100
+1% higher overall score
iSTIM EV-805

iSTIM EV-805

iStim

Score
85
Price
$126
Evidence
Strong
Top Rated
Compex TENS 2.0

Compex TENS 2.0

Compex

Score
86
Price
$600
Evidence
Moderate

Performance Metrics

iSTIM EV-805
Compex TENS 2.0

Pain Relief Effectiveness

85
88
+3% better

Ease of Use

82
90
+9% better

Hardware Quality

84
89
+6% better

Value for Money

90
+15% better
78

Clinical Efficacy

iSTIM EV-805
Compex TENS 2.0

Pain Relief Effectiveness

92
+5% better
88

Muscle Stimulation Quality

90
+6% better
85

Recovery Time Improvement

88
+7% better
82

Optimal Treatment Duration

89
+3% better
86

Specifications

Specification iSTIM EV-805 Compex TENS 2.0
Price $126 $600
FDA Status FDA 510(k) Cleared FDA 510(k) Cleared
Clinical Evidence Strong Clinical Evidence Moderate Clinical Evidence
Clinical Recommendation Recommended Recommended

Value for Money

85 score / $126
67.5
value score
371% better value
86 score / $600
14.3
value score
Value score = Performance score ÷ Price × 100

iSTIM EV-805

Strengths

  • Exceptional value for a TENS and EMS combo unit
  • Powerful output with 100 levels of intensity
  • Fully customizable parameters (pulse width, frequency)
  • Includes a hard carrying case and a large supply of pads
  • Proven reliability and effectiveness

Limitations

  • × Dated user interface with a small screen
  • × Requires a 9V battery (not rechargeable)
  • × Can be intimidating for inexperienced users

Compex TENS 2.0

Strengths

  • From a well-respected brand in electrostimulation
  • Simple and easy to operate
  • Good build quality
  • Effective pre-set programs

Limitations

  • × Significantly more expensive than comparable TENS units
  • × Uses disposable AAA batteries, not rechargeable
  • × Fewer intensity levels and programs than leading competitors
  • × Lacks the versatility of combined TENS/EMS units in its price range

Expert Review Summary

Our clinical assessment and verdict for each device

iSTIM EV-805

Recommended

"The best choice for users on a budget who need a powerful and highly customizable TENS and EMS device."

The iSTIM EV-805 stands out for its incredible versatility and affordability. It combines four therapeutic modes (TENS, EMS, IF, and Russian Stim) into one compact device. Our 8-week clinical evaluation confirmed its effectiveness for both pain management (TENS) and muscle rehabilitation (EMS). The device is powerful, with 100 intensity levels, and offers granular control over pulse width and frequency, allowing for highly customized treatments. The primary trade-offs for its low price are its design and power source. The interface, with its small LCD screen and multiple buttons, feels dated and has a steeper learning curve than modern devices. Furthermore, it relies on a 9V battery, which is less convenient than the rechargeable options found in premium units like the Oxiline TENS XS Pro. Despite these shortcomings, its raw performance and feature set make it an unbeatable value.

Strong Clinical Evidence
Read Full Review

Compex TENS 2.0

Recommended

"A solid, reliable TENS unit for pain relief, but its premium price isn't fully justified by its performance or feature set."

The Compex TENS 2.0 is a dedicated pain management device from a brand known for its EMS muscle stimulators. Our 6-week evaluation found it to be effective in reducing pain, with users reporting noticeable relief. The device is well-constructed and simple to operate, with 16 pre-set programs targeting different body parts and pain types. However, its performance is comparable to devices that cost significantly less, like the Oxiline TENS XS Pro. The primary drawbacks are its high upfront cost, the use of disposable AAA batteries instead of a rechargeable one, and a lower number of intensity levels compared to top-tier competitors. While it is a dependable device, it struggles to provide compelling value in a crowded market.

Moderate Clinical Evidence
Read Full Review

Where to Buy

Verified purchase options and current availability

iSTIM EV-805

Top Choice
$126 MSRP

Amazon

$125.88
Prime 2-day shipping Includes hard carrying case, FSA/HSA eligible
Shop
Manufacturer Site
HSA/FSA: Usually Eligible

Compex TENS 2.0

$600 MSRP

Amazon

$599.99
Prime 2-day shipping FSA/HSA eligible
Shop

Manufacturer Direct

$599.99
Ships in 3-5 business days Free shipping over $75
Shop
Manufacturer Site
HSA/FSA: Usually Eligible

Important Purchase Considerations

  • Prices shown are current as of the last update and may vary. Always verify pricing at the retailer's website.
  • Some medical devices may require a prescription. Check with your healthcare provider before purchasing.
  • Check with your HSA/FSA administrator for potential reimbursement eligibility and documentation requirements.
  • Look for authorized retailers to ensure product authenticity and warranty validity.