Tactical X
TENS, EMS and NMES at home.
Portable muscle stimulators from Tactical X Gear for at-home TENS, EMS and NMES sessions.
Three devices: the TENS & EMS 3.0, the NMES and the Abs Stimulator.
Compare the devices
HealthEnriched may earn a commission from purchases made through links on this page. These devices are not a substitute for medical care. Talk to your doctor about pain that is persistent or getting worse.
The basics
TENS, EMS and NMES Explained
All three send gentle electrical pulses through pads on your skin. The difference is what they are designed to work on.
| TENS | EMS | NMES | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stands for | Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation | Electrical muscle stimulation | Neuromuscular electrical stimulation |
| Works on | Nerves under the skin | Muscles | Muscles, through the nerves that control them |
| Feels like | A tingling or buzzing sensation | Muscles tightening and relaxing | Muscles tightening and relaxing |
| Commonly used for | Short-term relief from everyday aches and pains | Muscle toning, warm-ups and recovery | Targeted muscle activation and training |
Compare
Which Tactical X Device Is Right for You?
| Device | Type | Best for | What you get |
|---|---|---|---|
| TENS & EMS 3.0 | TENS + EMS, 3-in-1 | Switching between TENS and EMS programs in one device | Device kit; electrodes vary by the option you choose |
| NMES | NMES | Targeted muscle activation in quick 25-minute sessions | Device with setup instructions |
| Abs Stimulator | EMS | Core, arm and leg muscle stimulation | 6 abs pads, 2 arm/leg pads and 20 gel pads |
Programs and kit contents vary by model. Check the product page and manual for your exact device.
3-in-1 device
Tactical X TENS & EMS 3.0
A 3-in-1 portable device that combines TENS and EMS programs in one unit, so you can switch between nerve-stimulation and muscle-stimulation settings.
Tactical X provides electrode placement diagrams for the shoulders, upper arms, abs, mid back, glutes, quads, hamstrings and trapezius. Check the manual for the programs on your exact model.
Neuromuscular stimulation
Tactical X NMES
A neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) device that uses electrical impulses to activate targeted muscles, in a quick 25-minute session.
Follow the placement instructions before applying the electrodes, and start with the intensity the manual recommends. FSA/HSA eligibility depends on your plan.
EMS for core, arms and legs
Tactical X Abs Stimulator
An EMS kit for your core, arms and legs, with 6 abs pads, 2 arm/leg pads and 20 replacement gel pads.
- 6 training modes to vary your sessions.
- 19 intensity levels so you can start gently and build up.
- 20 gel pads included, to replace as they lose their stick.
How to use them
Getting Started
Clean and dry the skin
Wipe the area so the pads stick well, and skip lotion where the pads go.
Place the pads
Follow the placement guide for the muscle you want to target, with the pads flat and fully against your skin.
Start low
Pick a program and start at the lowest intensity, then turn it up slowly until it feels strong but comfortable.
Finish and store
Turn the device off before removing the pads, then put the protective film back on so the pads last longer.
Safety first
Before You Use Any Stimulator
- Don’t use it if you have a pacemaker, implanted defibrillator or other implanted electronic device.
- Ask your doctor first if you are pregnant, or have epilepsy, a heart condition, cancer or recent surgery.
- Keep pads off the front and sides of the neck, the head, across the chest, and broken, irritated or numb skin.
- Don’t use it while driving, operating machinery, in the bath or shower, or while asleep.
- Stop if you feel pain, burning or skin irritation, and see a doctor about pain that is persistent or getting worse.
Always read the safety instructions in your device’s manual before use.