Pulsetto Vagus Nerve Stimulator Review: Does It Actually Improve Sleep and Reduce Stress?
If you’re anything like me, you’ve tried everything to calm an overactive nervous system. Meditation apps that worked until they didn’t, natural supplements that had little to no effect, even yoga classes and massages that felt great but provided only temporary relief.
The Pulsetto vagus nerve stimulator has become one of 2025’s most talked-about solutions. This wearable device stimulates the vagus nerve to improve sleep, reduce anxiety, and help you decompress after stressful days.
After researching and analyzing countless user reviews, I’m sharing my insights on how Pulsetto works, who it benefits, and how it compares to other options on the market.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.
Who Needs a Vagus Nerve Stimulator?
Before diving deeper into this review, let’s figure out if this device might be a good fit for you. The Pulsetto is particularly helpful if you:
- Struggle with persistent sleep issues despite trying other solutions – whether you can’t fall asleep, stay asleep, or wake up feeling like you haven’t slept at all
- Deal with daily stress that follows you home after work, affecting your relationships and ability to enjoy your evenings
- Experience anxiety symptoms that mess with your focus and productivity, including that “high-functioning anxiety” where you seem fine on the outside but your thoughts are racing a mile a minute
- Have tried supplements, medications, or other devices with limited success or unwanted side effects like morning grogginess from sleep aids
- Want a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing your nervous system, especially if you’re in a demanding job or dealing with chronic stress
- Are interested in measuring health metrics like HRV (Heart Rate Variability) and seeing tangible improvements in your recovery metrics
If you recognize yourself in any of these, you’re among the thousands who might benefit from vagus nerve stimulation as a potential solution for modern stress-related challenges.
Pulsetto VNS Review: Pros and Cons
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How Does Pulsetto Work to Stimulate the Vagus Nerve?
The Pulsetto is essentially a lightweight, U-shaped collar that sits comfortably around your neck. What makes it interesting is the four electrodes (two on each side) that deliver carefully calibrated electrical pulses to stimulate both branches of your vagus nerve at the same time.
These gentle pulses target the vagus nerve – a key player in your “rest and digest” parasympathetic nervous system. When activated, it helps counterbalance that “fight or flight” stress mode many of us seem stuck in throughout our busy days.
Each session only takes between 4 and 20 minutes, depending on which mode you choose, and everything’s controlled through a smartphone app. It’s pretty straightforward to fit into your daily routine – you can do a session while reading in bed or just chilling on the couch.
Learn more about how the Pulsetto works (with images) here
How Pulsetto Reduces Stress and Improves Sleep
Based on customer results after two weeks of daily use (according to Pulsetto’s Science Page), the device delivers some measurable benefits for stress, sleep, and more. The key outcomes include:
- 28% less stress, helping you feel calmer under pressure.
- 18% better sleep quality, for deeper rest and refreshed mornings.
- 26% lower anxiety and 19% less burnout, supporting clearer thinking and better resilience.
Reduce stress by 28% with Pulsetto
Customers experience a 28% decrease in stress levels, with many feeling noticeably calmer after regular sessions. The device’s gentle electrical pulses stimulate the vagus nerve, activating the parasympathetic nervous system to shift your body from a “fight or flight” state to a relaxed, balanced condition. This can make those daily pressures—like work deadlines or handling kids—feel more manageable.
Boost sleep quality by 18% with Pulsetto
Pulsetto delivers an 18% increase in sleep quality, helping you rest deeply and wake up refreshed. By potentially lowering heart rate and stress hormones, it promotes restorative sleep. Users commonly report falling asleep more easily and feeling less groggy in the morning. Unlike supplements like melatonin, which may lose effectiveness over time, Pulsetto’s benefits appear to strengthen with consistent use, offering a drug-free alternative.
Improving Heart Rate Variability with Pulsetto
Studies suggest Pulsetto increases heart rate variability (HRV) after consistent use (according to the Effect of Cervical tVNS Study).
Another user’s HRV measurement is also noted below:
Tech-savvy individuals tracking their metrics often notice these improvements, which are linked to better immune function, sharper thinking, and stronger emotional regulation. Higher HRV reflects a healthier, more resilient nervous system, supporting overall well-being.
Ease anxiety by 26% with Pulsetto
Customers experience a 26% decrease in anxiety levels, feeling clearer and more grounded after regular Pulsetto sessions. Many report benefits for high-functioning anxiety or ADHD, with improved focus and smoother transitions between tasks—like switching from work to home life. This aligns with the vagus nerve’s role in calming the mind, making daily challenges feel less overwhelming
Reducing burnout and pain with Pulsetto
Pulsetto delivers a 19% decrease in burnout levels and a 9% decrease in pain levels, offering relief for those battling mental exhaustion or physical discomfort. By stimulating the vagus nerve, it seems to ease the effects of chronic stress and minor aches, making it a versatile tool for addressing both mind and body strain to help you properly recharge.
⭐ Premium Features:
For those wanting more, Pulsetto offers premium features through its app, including specialized programs targeting head pain, inflammation, and gut health. These premium options expand the device’s capabilities beyond the standard programs, allowing for more targeted approaches to specific concerns.
Setting Up Your Pulsetto: Step-by-Step Instructions
Using the device is straightforward:
- Apply a small amount of the included conductive gel to the electrodes
- Position the device comfortably around your neck
- Select a program through the smartphone app
- Adjust the intensity to a level that feels right for you
- Experience a mild tingling sensation as the device works
Pulsetto Design, Quality, and User Experience
Device Design and Build Quality
Looking at the Pulsetto, I was immediately struck by its clean, U-shaped design that wraps nicely around your neck. At just 12.31 ounces, it’s lightweight enough that you won’t feel weighed down during those relaxation sessions.
Check out the full details on Pulsetto Here →
The electrodes are positioned to target the vagus nerve pathway on both sides of your neck simultaneously, and the design allows it to fit comfortably while making proper contact with the skin.
One small inconvenience worth mentioning: you’ll need to apply a bit of conductive gel to the electrodes before each session. There’s no skipping this – it’s necessary for the electrical stimulation to work properly. Each gel tube should last about a month with daily use, and replacement tubes won’t break the bank when you need more.
App Interface and Program Options
The free Pulsetto app serves as the control center for the device, connecting via Bluetooth (which emits low levels of nonionizing radiation) and offering five specialized programs:
- Sleep Program (4750 Hz): Helps you relax before bed by shifting your nervous system into a parasympathetic, sleep-friendly state.
- Stress Program (4500 Hz): Quickly releases tension by calming the sympathetic nervous system and helping lower cortisol levels.
- Anxiety Program (4750 Hz ): Soothes an overactive mind and reduces mental overthinking with calming stimulation patterns.
- Burnout Program (5200 Hz): Supports deeper recovery for people dealing with long-term stress and mental exhaustion.
- Pain Management (4900 Hz): Helps ease physical discomfort by activating the body’s natural pain relief pathways.
You can easily adjust the stimulation intensity from levels 1 to 10, depending on your sensitivity and comfort. Most people find that levels 3 or 4 deliver a noticeable yet comfortable sensation. It feels like a gentle tingling at first—unfamiliar, but it quickly becomes second nature with regular use.
The app is simple and intuitive, with a minimal learning curve. It also tracks your usage and gives you basic progress updates. While there’s a premium version with extra programs and features, the free version has everything you need for the core experience.
How Long Should You Use a Pulsetto?
Pulsetto advises that ‘there are no restrictions on daily device use. However, it is advised to use it 2-3 times a day and take a 45-60 minute break between sessions.’ Sessions typically last 4-20 minutes.
Battery Life and Charging
The Pulsetto features a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that performs well for a portable device:
- 5-7 days of battery life with daily 10-minute sessions
- 3-5 days with multiple daily sessions
- Approximately 1-2 hours to fully charge via the included USB-C cable
Keep an eye on the LED indicator – when it starts blinking green it’s time to charge your VNS device.
How Does Pulsetto Compare to Other Vagus Nerve Stimulators?
The consumer market for vagus nerve stimulators has grown quickly in recent years. Here’s how Pulsetto stands out:
| Device | What It Is | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pulsetto | Neck-worn device with bilateral electrodes that directly stimulate both branches of the vagus nerve simultaneously | |
| Nurosym | Earlobe stimulation device that claims faster activation of the vagus nerve | £599.00 |
| Truvaga Plus | Single-sided handheld stimulator that requires manual positioning against the neck | $499 |
| Sensate | Uses chest vibrations and sound waves to indirectly stimulate the vagus nerve | $299 |
| Apollo | Wrist-worn device that uses vibration patterns to indirectly affect the nervous system | $349 |
Pulsetto offers dual-sided stimulation at a lower price point with no subscription fees on its core product—just occasional gel refills.
Devices like Apollo and Sensate use vibration patterns to support autonomic nervous system balance, while Pulsetto uses direct electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve.
Does Pulsetto Have Side Effects?
According to the Pulsetto user manual some users may experience mild side effects while using Pulsetto, including:
- Application site discomfort
- Redness, local pain around the face, head, or neck (including toothache),
- Headaches, dizziness, or tingling where the device is applied
These effects are usually temporary and often resolve once the session ends.
Pulsetto should not be used by individuals with pacemakers, implanted medical devices, metal implants near the neck, or by those using other electronic devices at the same time. It should also be avoided during activities like driving, near MRI machines, or in explosive environments.
Do not use Pulsetto on wet skin, open wounds, rashes, or over surgical scars. Always consult a healthcare provider before using Pulsetto, especially if you have any existing medical conditions.
What Do Customers Say About Pulsetto?
People can’t stop talking about how Pulsetto has helped them unwind and sleep better.
Many customers report falling asleep faster and waking up feeling refreshed instead of groggy. “I sleep so well and deeply now. Since I started using the device, I have also noticed a calmer, zen-like overall feeling,” shared one happy user.
The biohacking community is particularly impressed with the measurable results. Tech-savvy users tracking their metrics report significant improvements: “I saw an immediate increase in my heart rate variability and decrease in resting heart rate after just a few days.”
For busy professionals, Pulsetto has become a daily reset tool. Users describe it as creating “a mental boundary between work and home life” that helps them stop carrying tension into their evenings.
What makes the VNS device stand out is its simplicity—small, sleek, and requiring no complicated setup. Most users feel the effects within the first week of consistent use.
That said, Pulsetto isn’t perfect for everyone. Some think it’s a little pricey, and others wish for more immediate results. A few users with particularly slender necks mention challenges getting optimal electrode contact.
Keep in mind that like most wellness tools, what works wonders for one person might not be as effective for another.
The Bottom Line: Is Pulsetto Worth It?
If you’re constantly battling stress and poor sleep, Pulsetto offers an interesting approach through vagus nerve stimulation. This neck-worn device delivers gentle electrical pulses that may help activate your body’s natural relaxation response.
The science behind VNS is promising, though more research is needed on consumer devices specifically. Many users report improved sleep, decreased stress, and better recovery metrics, but results vary between individuals.
Don’t expect overnight miracles—benefits tend to build gradually with consistent use. Pulsetto is most appealing if you’ve already explored lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga, supplements, therapy, or other devices such as sleep trackers or weighted blankets, but found limited success.
Before investing, consider consulting your doctor, especially if you have any existing health conditions. While not a guaranteed solution, Pulsetto offers a drug-free option worth exploring for those struggling with chronic stress and sleep issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Pulsetto compare to other vagus nerve stimulators?
The Pulsetto stands out for its dual-sided stimulation approach, stimulating both branches of the vagus nerve simultaneously. Many competitors offer only single-sided stimulation that must be manually held against the neck.
Can I use Pulsetto without a subscription?
Yes, you can use Pulsetto without a subscription. Pulsetto operates on a one-time purchase model without requiring ongoing electrode replacements or subscriptions (unless you wanted the premium options).
Is vagus nerve stimulation scientifically proven?
Yes, vagus nerve stimulation has been studied extensively. Medical-grade VNS devices have FDA approval for conditions like epilepsy and depression. While consumer devices like Pulsetto use lower intensity stimulation, the fundamental mechanism of vagus nerve activation is scientifically established.
How long should I use Pulsetto each day?
Most users see benefits with 4-20 minutes of daily use. The app offers programs of varying lengths, with the Sleep program typically being longest. Some users prefer twice-daily sessions (morning and evening) for maximum benefit.
Do I need to apply gel every time?
Yes, the conductive gel is necessary for proper electrical conductivity between the electrodes and your skin. A small amount is sufficient, and each tube typically lasts about 30 days with daily use.
Can I use Pulsetto while doing other activities?
Yes, many users incorporate Pulsetto sessions while reading, listening to music, or meditating. The hands-free design makes it convenient to use during seated activities.