Overview

In the interest of full disclosure, I’m often skeptical of wellness gadgets. Can a single piece of Bluetooth technology really support better sleep, improve mood, promote relaxation, and help the body handle everyday stress more effectively? Pulsetto is a nondrug health wearable designed with that goal in mind, using ultra-low radio frequency energy to stimulate the vagus nerve in the neck.

To explore these claims, I used the Pulsetto neckband for over a month to observe what impact it might have on my general well-being and daily routine.

Yes, I approached this review with some skepticism (which is probably what you’d expect from a review journalist), but with many potential wellness benefits suggested—and “no prior mindfulness or meditation experience required”—it was worth trying to see whether it could offer any noticeable support.

Nervous System 101

Pulsetto is designed to stimulate the vagus nerve, which plays an important role in the parasympathetic nervous system. This part of the nervous system is often associated with relaxation and restorative body functions, including digestion, heart rhythm regulation, and emotional balance. It works in contrast to the sympathetic nervous system, which is commonly linked to the body’s fight-or-flight response during stressful situations.

Pulsetto Pulsetto
Pulsetto Pulsetto

Rating: 3/10

$239 at Pulsetto

All products featured on WIRED are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

Pulsetto describes its technology as a form of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), which may help encourage the body’s natural relaxation response.

VNS itself is not a new concept. For example, when someone tells you to “take a deep breath” during a stressful moment, they are encouraging a simple activity that can influence the vagus nerve. Other commonly suggested practices include meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, cold showers, or even singing.

In medical settings, certain forms of VNS have been studied for decades in relation to neurological and mental health conditions. According to the Royal College of Psychiatrists in the UK, there are two main forms of VNS.

One type involves an implanted device placed under the skin that connects directly to the vagus nerve. Another approach is transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS), which stimulates the nerve externally through the skin. Pulsetto uses this second approach, where stimulation occurs through the neck.

It’s worth noting that Pulsetto is not the only product using tVNS technology. Other devices exist on the market that target the vagus nerve using different designs.

The Royal College of Psychiatrists also notes that while some medical research has explored VNS in clinical environments, evidence regarding non-invasive tVNS devices is still developing.

Simple Setup

The Pulsetto is very easy to use. The companion app features clear icons and instructions that guide you through each step. In the box you’ll find a charging cable, a plastic neckband, and a tube of electrode gel.

This gel helps improve the connection between the device and your skin. It is similar to the gel used during ultrasound exams and helps the electrodes make proper contact.

Pulsetto Pulsetto
Pulsetto Pulsetto

Rating: 3/10

$239 at Pulsetto

After applying the gel, you simply turn the Pulsetto on, place it around your neck, connect it to the mobile app (available for iOS and Android), and select a session.

The app includes different session categories related to relaxation, sleep support, and general wellness. Sessions typically last between four and twenty minutes. You can adjust the intensity and provide feedback within the app, allowing you to track your experience over time.

Fizzy Feeling

What does a Pulsetto session feel like? For me, it felt like a mild twitch or pulsating sensation in the neck. The stimulation creates an unusual but generally painless buzzing feeling.

It reminded me somewhat of the sensation of mild pins and needles, though less intense.

As someone with an average neck size, I had no issues wearing the Pulsetto comfortably. However, when a friend with a smaller neck tried it, she found that the device didn’t make consistent contact with her skin, even when adjusted to its smallest size. That’s something potential users may want to consider.

Most sessions last only a few minutes, with the longest lasting around 20 minutes.

Does It Work?

Aside from everyday responsibilities like work, family life, and the usual stresses of modern living, I wouldn’t describe myself as someone dealing with high levels of stress or sleep problems.

Still, taking a few minutes each day to pause and relax during a Pulsetto session was enjoyable. It reminded me of the benefits promoted by breathing or mindfulness apps, where the simple act of stepping away from daily activity can be calming.

During the first few sessions, I couldn’t say that I noticed any immediate changes. The buzzing sensation became familiar over time, but I didn’t feel dramatically different afterward.

However, the sessions did provide a structured opportunity to slow down and relax, which I appreciated.

Eventually, I experimented with higher intensity levels. The difference between levels 5 and 7 felt noticeable, while anything above 7 felt too strong for me.

Some users report temporary sensations such as mild dizziness, muscle twitching, headaches, or tingling after using similar stimulation devices.

After higher intensity sessions, I occasionally felt slightly lightheaded for a short period, though the sensation usually passed quickly.

Heart Rate Variability

Some sources suggest that consistent vagus nerve stimulation may influence metrics like heart rate variability (HRV), which is sometimes used as an indicator of recovery and stress balance.

According to fitness platforms such as Whoop, HRV values can vary widely depending on factors like sleep, exercise, and alcohol consumption.

Over the month that I tested the device (admittedly missing a few days here and there), I didn’t notice a meaningful change in my HRV data. My readings remained roughly in the same range as before.

Of course, HRV can fluctuate naturally, and many factors beyond a wearable device can influence these measurements.

Verdict

Pulsetto states that some customers report improvements in relaxation and stress management after several weeks of use. As with many wellness devices, experiences may vary depending on the individual.

Personally, after a month of testing, I didn’t experience the kind of noticeable changes I had hoped for.

That said, taking time each day to relax and disconnect from daily pressures can be valuable on its own. Whether that time is spent meditating, breathing deeply, stretching, or using a device like Pulsetto may depend on personal preference.

While Pulsetto may offer a structured way to pause and relax, it is unlikely to replace healthy lifestyle habits such as exercise, quality sleep, and stress management practices.

Ultimately, for some users it may serve as a helpful relaxation tool, while others may find similar benefits through simpler wellness routines.