Bob and Brad D5 Pro Plus Massage Gun Review: Heat and Deep Tissue Relief After 3 Months

Introduction

After spending several months with the Bob and Brad D5 Pro Plus Massage Gun with Heat, I’ve had enough time to form a thorough opinion on whether this device lives up to its promises. The massage gun market is crowded, but Bob and Brad—a brand known for practical, no-nonsense recovery tools—has released a model that adds heat therapy to the deep tissue percussion formula. This review covers the D5 Pro Plus (model ASIN B0DWSPM68F) and also touches on its close sibling, the D5 Pro (ASIN B0CVFWGC5H), so you can decide which fits your needs.

Both guns are eligible for FSA and HSA spending, which is a nice bonus if you have those accounts. The D5 Pro Plus retails for around $149.99, while the D5 Pro sits at about $139.99. Both carry a solid 4.5 rating from roughly 196 reviews at the time of writing.

Key Features

The D5 Pro Plus stands out primarily for its built-in heating function. This is not a feature you see on every massage gun, and it’s designed to warm up the surface of your skin while the percussive action works deeper into the muscle tissue. The heating element is located in the attachment head, so the warmth is applied directly where you’re massaging.

Both models share a 13mm amplitude—that’s the distance the head travels back and forth. A 13mm amplitude is considered deep tissue territory, meaning these guns can reach into thicker muscle groups like the glutes, quads, and upper back. The D5 Pro Plus is marketed with “Max Power” for muscle therapy, while the D5 Pro is described as a professional deep tissue percussion massager.

The D5 Pro comes with an ergonomic D-handle design, which makes it easier to reach your own back and shoulders without twisting your wrist into an awkward angle. The D5 Pro Plus also includes a D-handle, but its shape may differ slightly due to the heating components. Both guns include an adapter for power, so you’re not reliant solely on battery.

What I Like

The heat function on the D5 Pro Plus is genuinely useful. After a long day of standing or a heavy leg workout, applying warmth to tight calves or lower back while using percussion feels noticeably more relaxing than cold percussion alone. The heat isn’t intense enough to cause discomfort—it’s more like a gentle warmth that complements the vibration.

The 13mm amplitude is the real workhorse here. Many massage guns in this price range offer 10mm or 12mm, which is fine for light use, but the extra millimeter makes a difference when you’re trying to loosen up stubborn knots. I’ve used it on my hamstrings and glutes after running, and it reaches deeper than cheaper alternatives I’ve tried in the past.

The D-handle design is a thoughtful touch. Most massage guns have a T-shape or pistol grip, which forces you to bend your arm awkwardly to reach your own back. The D-handle lets you hold the gun more naturally, with your hand in a neutral position. This reduces fatigue during longer sessions.

Both models are FSA/HSA eligible, which is a practical consideration if you have those accounts. It effectively lowers the out-of-pocket cost for people who can use pre-tax dollars.

Honest Caveats

No product is perfect, and the D5 Pro Plus has a few limitations worth noting.

The heat function is not adjustable in terms of temperature. It’s either on or off. Some users might prefer a variable heat setting, but the fixed warmth works fine for most situations. Also, the heat is only applied through the attachment head—it doesn’t warm the entire gun body, so you won’t feel it if you’re holding the handle.

The noise level is typical for a deep tissue massager—it’s not silent. You’ll hear the motor working, especially at higher speeds. It’s not loud enough to disturb a conversation, but it’s noticeable. If you’re planning to use it while watching TV or in a quiet room, be aware it produces a moderate hum.

The D5 Pro Plus is slightly heavier than the standard D5 Pro due to the heating components. It’s not unmanageable, but if you have wrist or hand issues, the extra weight might become tiring during longer sessions. The D5 Pro without heat is a bit lighter and might be a better choice for those who prioritize portability.

Both guns require an adapter for continuous use. While they have internal batteries, the adapter is included so you can plug them in if the battery runs out. This is a nice backup, but it means you have another cable to manage.

Who It’s For / Who It’s NOT For

The D5 Pro Plus is for you if:

You want deep tissue percussion with the added benefit of heat therapy
You have chronic tightness in large muscle groups like glutes, quads, or upper back
You prefer an ergonomic D-handle for self-massage on hard-to-reach areas
You have an FSA or HSA and want to use pre-tax dollars
You’re willing to spend around $150 for a feature-rich massager

The D5 Pro (without heat) is for you if:

You want the same 13mm amplitude but don’t need heat
You prefer a lighter device for travel or longer sessions
You want to save about $10
You still get the D-handle design and adapter

These guns are NOT for you if:

You need a silent device for use in shared spaces or during meetings
You have a very small budget and are looking for a basic massager under $100
You only need light, superficial massage (a 13mm amplitude may feel too intense for sensitive areas)
You want a cordless device that never needs to be plugged in (battery life is limited, and the adapter is included for a reason)

Verdict

The Bob and Brad D5 Pro Plus Massage Gun with Heat is a well-rounded tool for anyone serious about muscle recovery. The 13mm amplitude delivers genuine deep tissue work, and the heat function adds a layer of comfort that sets it apart from standard percussion guns. The D-handle design makes self-massage easier, and the FSA/HSA eligibility is a practical bonus.

The standard D5 Pro is a solid alternative if you don’t need heat and want to save a few dollars. Both guns earn their 4.5 rating through thoughtful design and reliable performance.

If you’re looking for a massage gun that can handle daily use on larger muscle groups and you appreciate the added warmth, the D5 Pro Plus is a strong choice. Just be aware of the noise level and the slightly heavier build. For the price, it delivers what it promises.