Quell 2.0 wearable pain relief review

A few years ago I had a chance to try the original Quell pain relief device. For a refresher, Quell is a drug-free pain relief device that uses intensive nerve stimulation to block chronic pain. The device is worn on the leg (no matter the source of the pain) and sends signals to the brain that trigger a natural pain relief response.

Although this product was a gift, all opinions in this review remain my own and I was in no way influenced by the company. This post contains affiliate links, please see my disclosure policy for details.

I loved my original Quell from the very beginning and have continued to use the device every day since. At one point my device stopped working and I panicked about how I would live without it. However, I contacted Quell and their amazing customer service replaced it at no cost to me.

What I loved about the original Quell was that it was simple to use and lowered my pain level significantly. This is why I was thrilled when I heard they were coming out with a Quell 2.0 version and I was offered an opportunity to try it. I was interested to see the differences and how it was improved overall.

I noticed right away how much smaller the 2.0 is. The picture below shows the original on the right, and Quell 2.0 on the left. The 2.0 is approximately half the size of the original, which makes it easier to conceal under clothes.

One of the differences between the two I immediately noticed was the lack of on/off button on the 2.0. The 2.0 is meant to be powered with the Quell app. I’m not the greatest at knowing where my phone is, so at first I really missed the on/off button on the device. I did eventually figure out that you can turn the device off by tapping it twice.

I did find the app to be simple and easy to use and it does have some advantages over an on/off button. For example, it shows you how long you have until your next therapy. I have a habit of thinking it’s been forever since I felt it going, and then checking my app and realizing it’s only been 30 minutes. Because I have a habit of frequently taking my device on and off as I change my activities it’s helpful that the app regulates my schedule for me.

The app also comes with quite a few personalization options for therapy. There’s an “Intensive Therapy” option that allows for faster pain relief with a 15-minute session. This regimen can also be changed based on the time of day, body position, and even based on the weather.

The good and the bad of Quell pain relief

Overall I love that Quell 2.0 is much more versatile than the original. I sat down to write this review after using it for a month, and while during research found several functions that I wasn’t aware of (I had no idea it tracked sleep as I previously haven’t worn my Quell at night).

My criticisms are minor. I wish its functions didn’t have to be so tied to the app. While the app is easy to use and provides more functions, I don’t love downloading yet another app on my phone. Additionally, despite the battery life being touted as an improvement, I haven’t found the battery life of 2.0 to be significantly better than the original.

Does Quell Pain Relief 2.0 address my previous concerns?

My major concerns with the original Quell were the electrodes, the band, and the cost.

• The electrodes have actually improved since Quell released the sports version. These are the only kind I use now because the gel doesn’t start flaking off after a couple of uses.
• The band still remains to be seen. I’ve only had my new one for a month, so I’ll update this post when I’ve had it for a longer period of time.
• The cost at $299 is quite high, however, I feel comfortable in saying that Quell is worth it as it’s the best pain relief device I’ve ever tried (and I’ve tried quite a few). With the use of the sports electrodes, I’ve seen my monthly costs go down as well.

Overall I can continue to recommend the Quell pain relief device. It continues to significantly lower my pain when I remember to wear it. At a cost of $299 pain relief doesn’t come cheap, but Quell does still offer a 60-day guarantee for anyone who worries that it won’t work for them.

Click here for more information on Quell pain relief

 

UPDATE 10/2020

I have seen the settlement information from the FTC about the marketing of the Quell pain relief device. Quell had to agree to pay at least $4 million and stop making the claim that the device treats pain throughout the body when placed below the knee. Even with this information I still love my Quell and it has worked wonderfully for me. I stand by my review.