When you are choosing the right Whole Body Vibration (WBV) Machine, also known as a Vibration Plate, there are 5 key things you need to consider.
These 5 steps will help you make the right pick fast:
Infographic listing 5 steps to choose the right WBV machine, including space, budget, motion type, specs, and warranty.
It can be overwhelming to look at specs and marketing hype when choosing a Vibration Plate.
With so many models, terms like “amplitude” and “frequency,” and bold claims from brands, it’s hard to know what really matters.
That’s why we’ve created this research-backed, goal-focused guide to help you cut through the noise.
We’ll break it down by:
Let’s break it down step-by-step so you can make a smart, confident decision.
This breakdown compares WBV machines based on their benefits and your goals.
This ranges from weight loss, increasing bone density, improving muscle strength, enhancing mobility/flexibility, improving lymphatic function and circulatory system health, and balance training.
Pro tip: The best way to compare WBV machines is first to define what you need it for.
Then, you can look at the specs to see if it can deliver the full range of benefits while also fitting in your space.
The vibration industry was built on pivotal movement, and all Hypervibe WBV machines are pivotal platforms.
It is among the most heavily researched platforms on the market.
These platforms move like a seesaw or teeter-totter.
The movement replicates the forces on the body during normal movement (e.g., walking).
Because of its motion and design, it can deliver higher amplitudes than others, and therefore higher G-forces.
However, this is only possible when it’s designed the right way.
It is suitable for all vibration training benefits.
The lineal platform came after the oscillating platform and is also one of the most researched platforms in the market.
It moves straight up and down.
Because of its motion, it can reach higher frequencies compared to other types of WBV.
When it is built correctly, it can also reach higher G-forces.
It is suitable for all benefits except bone density, where it falls short compared to pivotal.
It may be slightly more suitable for mobility or flexibility because of its larger surface for the user.
Tri-planar platform is a term created by manufacturers used to suggest a type of technology that is unique and superior to Lineal machines.
The tri-planar vibration is said to move in all 3 planes: left to right, front to back, and up and down.
There is one problem with the claim that “tri-planar” machines are different, which is that Lineal machines vibrate in all 3 planes.
This means both machines do the same thing.
The only difference you will find in machines that move in all 3 planes is the degree to which they vibrate across these planes.
Spiral platforms move in an elliptical motion in the horizontal plane only.
They are the newest to the market and were developed without any real understanding of the physics behind WBV technology.
As a result, they are very limited in their benefits.
If you purchase a Spiral vibration platform, you’ll mostly be limited to mobility/flexibility benefits and balance training.
Infographic with the 4 main specs of a good vibration platform
Frequency tells you how fast the platform vibrates.
This matters because different frequencies serve different purposes.
Research shows that the best frequency for most users is 25–40 Hz.
It offers a good balance of therapeutic and performance benefits.
When you compare WBV machines, choose a model with a wide range of frequencies that have been proven with testing.
Amplitude tells you how far the platform moves when vibrating.
Once the frequency has been set according to the objective of the training, amplitude is used to control the intensity of the training.
Most lineal machines have a single fixed amplitude, which can’t be adjusted, while some have two fixed amplitude options: low (1 mm) and high (2 mm).
Pivotal machines have variable amplitude, typically in the range of 1 mm to 10 mm.
Having variable amplitude gives you greater intensity control options.
G-force is the acceleration your body experiences.
It is the key to all the most desired benefits of Whole Body Vibration and is what sets vibration therapy apart from all other training formats.
It is the “push” behind the vibration.
It combines frequency and amplitude into a single metric.
Take a look at the formula for the mathematical minds.
G-Force = (Amplitude × (2π × Frequency)²) ÷ 9.81
G-force ranges from 1 to 17 Gs.
G-force is only effective when paired with good posture and technique.
So! it is better to start low and grow.
Make sure the machine fits your body and your house before checking out.
Small units may save on space, but they can limit the number of exercises you can do.
On the other hand, larger units take up more space but allow more exercises to be performed.
Most machines limit the user to 300 lbs.
If you weigh more, you may need to consider a commercial model.
Look for a stable platform with an anti-slip design to ensure safety.
Investing in a quality Vibration Plate is worthwhile.
Confirm that the parts and labor warranties are for at least two years.
Also, check that the business provides simple access to replacement or support parts when necessary.
Some machines can get loud, especially at higher settings.
If you require a quiet setup, read the machine reviews and look for noise ratings.
When using vibration machines, accessories are a great addition.
Look for add-ons that can improve your experience, such as:
Model |
Price |
Motion Type |
Frequency Range |
Max G‑Force |
Platform Size |
Warranty |
$3,129 |
Pivotal |
5–30 Hz |
14 g |
25.8” x 15.5” |
2/5/10 years |
|
PowerPlate – MOVE |
$2,896 |
Triplanar |
30-40 Hz |
6 g |
30” x 24” |
1 year |
Globus Physioplate – My Gold |
$8,125 |
Linear |
15-60 Hz |
18 g |
36.6” x 23.6” |
2 years |
Galileo® S 35 |
On request |
Pivotal |
5.33 Hz |
20.6 g |
27 x 19 |
2/10 years |
VibePlate – 2440 |
$2,595 |
Linear |
10-60 Hz |
Not advertised |
24” x 40” |
5 years |
Start with your main objective.
Do you need to lose weight, increase bone density, improve muscle strength, enhance mobility/flexibility, improve lymphatic and circulatory system health, and balance training
Next, consider important features of the machine, like the specific frequency, amplitude, and G-force range, making sure that it’s been tested.
It helps to use a Whole Body Vibration machine comparison table to weigh models side by side based on your needs and space.
Not always. Different G-forces are good for different goals.
Higher G-forces are good for bone density, strength training, or weight loss.
However, lower G-forces (2G–6G) are better for light use and general health and wellness benefits.
A medium 5-8G is the right choice when using a Whole Body Vibration for rehab, for seniors, and/or for beginners looking to get the full range of benefits.
Remember, you need to match the G-force with good posture and technique for it to be effective.
Yes, many mid- to high-end Vibration Plates are designed for multi-purpose use.
Look for machines with a wide range of frequencies, amplitudes, and G-forces that have been tested.
These models can switch from gentle lymphatic drainage to high-intensity strength training.
Knowing how to choose a Whole Body Vibration machine that fits changing needs will save you from upgrading later.
Look for certifications that confirm manufacturing quality, safety, and performance.
A nationally recognized quality and safety certification such as UL or ETL shows that the manufacturer is committed to the quality and safety of their products.
If the device is being sold for clinical or rehabilitation use as an FDA-registered device, check its class registration.
Use certifications for Whole Body Vibration machine comparisons, especially for professional use.
woman on a hypervibe vibration platform with the word FAQ
Choosing the right Whole Body Vibration machine doesn’t have to be difficult.
Choose the motion type that best suits your objectives and has been tested, and ensure the machine has a wide range of frequencies, amplitudes, and G-forces.
Still not sure where to start? Get the Hypervibe buyer’s guide to explore the full Hypervibe product lineup to find your perfect match.
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