Workhorse Mini vs Storz Masterpuls One
Shockwave therapy has quickly become a go-to treatment for musculoskeletal pain, soft tissue injuries, and chronic conditions—offering a non-invasive solution with fast results. As demand grows, so does the interest in portable shockwave machines that allow for on-the-go treatments, smaller clinic setups, or mobile practices.
Two standout devices in this category are the Workhorse Mini and the Storz Masterpuls One. Both are designed for performance and portability, but they differ in key areas like size, user interface, treatment flexibility, and price point.
If you’re evaluating which device fits your needs—whether you’re running a growing practice, treating patients on the move, or looking to upgrade your equipment—this comparison breaks down the details that matter most.
Overview: Workhorse Mini and Masterpuls One
Before diving into specs and side-by-side comparisons, let’s look at what each machine brings to the table.
Workhorse Mini
The Workhorse Mini is a compact, portable shockwave machine with the power of a stationary unit, built for clinicians who value mobility and streamlined operation. Weighing just 5 kg and powered by a built-in electromagnetic mechanism, it eliminates the need for bulky attachments or external compressors. With an intuitive touchscreen interface, 7 built-in treatment protocols, and adjustable pressure/frequency settings, the Mini is built to deliver professional-grade results in a portable form factor.
Storz Masterpuls One
The Masterpuls One comes from Storz Medical, a well-known name in shockwave technology. Designed for focused radial pressure wave therapy, this unit is built with durability and precision in mind. It uses a radial handpiece with mechanical adjustments and requires a bit more setup space, weighing in at nearly double the Mini’s weight. It’s a trusted unit used in many rehab and sports clinics, especially where brand recognition is a key consideration.
Both devices are capable of treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions—but how they go about it, and who they’re best suited for, is where the real differences emerge.
Portability and Design
One of the first things practitioners notice when comparing these two devices is the difference in size and portability.
Workhorse Mini
The Workhorse Mini is truly built for mobility. Weighing in at approximately 11 lbs, it’s easy to carry between treatment rooms—or even to offsite appointments. Because it’s compressor-free, there’s no need for bulky external components, making the setup virtually plug-and-play. The compact design also makes it ideal for small clinics or shared treatment spaces where every inch matters.
Storz Masterpuls One
By contrast, the Masterpuls One weighs about 21.6 lbs, and includes an integrated compressor. While still considered portable, it requires more space and time for setup. This added bulk may be a factor for practitioners who prioritize speed and mobility—especially those doing in-home treatments or working in constrained environments.
Takeaway: If portability and quick deployment are priorities, the Workhorse Mini clearly has the edge in form factor and convenience.
Performance and Treatment Capabilities
While both machines are designed to deliver effective shockwave therapy, there are some key differences in output control, flexibility, and built-in features.
Bar Pressure and Frequency
- Workhorse Mini offers 1 to 8 Bar of adjustable pressure in 0.5 Bar increments, with frequency control from 1 to 21 Hz.
- Masterpuls One provides a smaller intensity range of 1 to 2.7 Bar, with frequency options limited to 6 to 18 Hz.
The finer control on the Mini allows practitioners to tailor treatments with greater precision—especially when working with sensitive areas or adapting to patient tolerance.
Preset Protocols and Guidance
- The Mini comes preloaded with 7 common treatment protocols, helping streamline setup and ensuring consistency across sessions.
- The MP One does not include built-in presets, which may require more manual calibration and clinical judgment, especially for newer practitioners.
Applicator Options
- The Workhorse Mini is compatible with multiple applicator heads, allowing customization for different tissue depths and treatment goals.
- The Workhorse Mini offers a professional style handle with frequency, intensity and start/stop function controls right on the handpiece not offered by the Masterpuls One.
- The Masterpuls One comes with a standard radial handpiece and Storz’s SPARROW™ technology, known for durability but with fewer customization options out of the box.
Takeaway: Both machines deliver effective therapy, but the Workhorse Mini offers greater treatment flexibility and built-in support—especially useful for busy clinics or new users seeking a more guided experience.
Ease of Use & Interface
Beyond specs, what often determines daily satisfaction is how easy a device is to operate—especially in fast-paced clinical environments.
Workhorse Mini
The Mini is designed with simplicity in mind. It features an intuitive touchscreen interface, allowing for quick pressure and frequency adjustments, access to built-in treatment protocols, and real-time feedback. Setup is straightforward: plug it in, choose a mode, and begin treatment in under a minute. Its learning curve is minimal, making it ideal for clinics with multiple staff or those integrating shockwave therapy for the first time.
Storz Masterpuls One
The Masterpuls One, on the other hand, uses a more traditional dial-based interface. While reliable, this manual setup may require more attention and calibration, especially when switching between patients or treatment types. Without preset programs, users must rely more heavily on experience and protocol documentation.
Takeaway: The Workhorse Mini’s modern touchscreen and preloaded settings reduce friction and save time—an asset for any busy clinic or solo practitioner.
Maintenance and Durability
Every shockwave machine needs upkeep, but how much—and how often—can vary significantly depending on the design and components.
Workhorse Mini
Thanks to its compressor-free electromagnetic system, the Mini has fewer moving parts and less risk of mechanical failure. It’s engineered for durability with a streamlined internal layout, minimizing the likelihood of breakdowns. While its standard 1-year warranty is shorter than Storz’s, ongoing maintenance tends to be simpler and more affordable.
Storz Masterpuls One
Storz devices are known for long-term reliability, and the MP One includes a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty. However, because it includes an integrated compressor and more complex hardware, maintenance or repair can be more involved. Replacement parts and service calls through authorized Storz service providers may also come at a premium.
Takeaway: Both machines are built to last, but the Workhorse Mini’s minimal-maintenance design offers peace of mind, especially for smaller clinics looking to reduce operating headaches.
Price and Value
When investing in a shockwave device, upfront cost is only part of the equation. Long-term value depends on what you’re getting in return—features, flexibility, and total cost of ownership.
Workhorse Mini
The Workhorse Mini is priced to be accessible for growing practices, typically coming in at $3,599. For that price, it delivers a full-featured shockwave solution with treatment presets, a touchscreen interface, and portable design—without the need for additional hardware like a compressor. The lower ongoing maintenance costs and user-friendly design also contribute to long-term savings.
Storz Masterpuls One
The MP One typically retails in the $10,000+ range, depending on vendor and configuration. While it offers the backing of a well-established brand and robust construction, it lacks certain conveniences like preloaded protocols and modern interface upgrades. Clinics may also face higher costs for repairs or handpiece replacements due to proprietary parts.
Takeaway: Both devices offer clinical-grade performance, but the Workhorse Mini packs surprising value into a compact, budget-friendly package—making it especially appealing for newer practices or providers looking to scale without overspending.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Both the Workhorse Mini and the Storz Masterpuls One are capable, professional-grade shockwave therapy devices—but they’re built for different types of users.
Choose the Storz Masterpuls One if you:
- Prefer a well-known legacy brand
- Don’t mind the extra weight or manual interface
- Are working in a high-volume, stationary clinic that values traditional equipment
Choose the Workhorse Mini if you:
- Prioritize portability, ease of use, and quick setup
- Want a modern interface with pre-programmed treatment protocols
- Are looking for great performance at a more accessible price point
For many mobile practitioners, cash-based clinics, or providers just adding shockwave therapy to their services, the Workhorse Mini hits a sweet spot: lightweight, intuitive, and budget-conscious—without compromising on results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Workhorse Mini treat the same conditions as the Storz Masterpuls One?
Yes. Both devices are radial shockwave systems and are effective for treating a wide range of conditions such as plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, shoulder tendinopathy, and other soft tissue injuries. The Workhorse Mini provides the pressure and frequency ranges needed for therapeutic outcomes, making it comparable in clinical applications.
Does the Workhorse Mini offer the same treatment capabilities as a full size rESWT machine?
Yes. As a matter of fact based solely off of specifications alone, the Workhorse Mini is a far better option that its higher priced counterpart the Masterpuls One. The Workhorse Mini outshines the Masterpuls One on all fronts, especially when it comes to intensity, frequency, weight and cost. The Workhorse Mini provides the same capabilities of a full sized professional quality rESWT machine in a compact, portable package at a fraction of the cost.
Does the Workhorse Mini require an external compressor?
No. That’s one of its biggest advantages. The Mini is completely compressor-free, meaning less bulk, less noise, and fewer moving parts to maintain. Just plug it in and you’re ready to go—whether in a clinic room or on a house call.
How easy is the Workhorse Mini to transport?
Very easy. The Mini is one of the most portable devices on the market. Its compact size and self-contained design make it ideal for mobile providers, multi-room practices, or clinics with limited space.
