I tried Pulsetto FIT X: What’s new this time?

So, you’re thinking about trying vagus nerve stimulation. Or perhaps you’re simply looking to build a regular stress-management routine? Either way, Pulsetto has a new option to consider, and I just so happened to get my hands on it.

For this Pulsetto FIT X review, I used the newest model daily for a week, testing its fit, stimulation, app, and overall usability. A week isn’t enough for me to make big claims about potential benefits, but it was plenty of time to get a feel for what has changed. Explore what I liked, what I didn’t, and whether I think FIT X is worth considering.

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My first impression of Pulsetto FIT X

After getting Pulsetto FIT X on my work table, I wasn’t unfamiliar with the brand and knew to expect the same futuristic, collar-like design. Still, I was pleasantly surprised by how aesthetic the overall presentation felt this time around.

The box is smaller and well designed, with the activation manual printed directly on the back. Inside, I found the device itself, a USB-C charging cable, a small bottle of conductive gel, and an applicator. The gel was a slight disappointment, though. Older Pulsetto models came with a 2.1oz (60g) bottle, while FIT X offers only 1oz (30g) tube, so getting less this time means you’ll likely be buying replacements more often.

The design has changed, too. The cushioning feels softer when you put the device on, and you can adjust the size to get a better fit. That said, sliding the sides into position took me quite a bit of force.

More importantly, I found FIT X less comfortable to wear overall than the previous FIT model. This may simply come down to personal preference—you see, I’ve never been a fan of accessories or clothing that put pressure around my neck. Unfortunately, that’s something I noticed quite a bit with FIT X. The electrode pads are larger, protrude further, and are slightly angled to create a ‘V’ shape, which made the pressure on my neck more uncomfortable for me.

Although making the device bigger didn’t really work in my favor, I still managed to put it through testing, so it’s not particularly a deal-breaker for everyone.

What’s new compared to older models?

Pulsetto’s current lineup includes Lite, FIT, and the newest FIT X. In my opinion, each generation feels like a step forward, with the company gradually refining the design and adding changes based on what users want.

Of course, the three models also come at different price points, so it’s worth looking at what you actually get with each one before choosing.

Model	Pulsetto FIT X	Pulsetto FIT	Pulsetto Lite
Release date	2026	2025	2024
Best for	Improved cushioning	Customizable fit	Affordability
Design	Cushioned and adjustable neckband with large electrode pads	Adjustable neckband with two removable paddings	Basic, lightweight neckband
Claimed battery life	Up to 12 days	Up to 12 days	Up to 7 days
Intensity range	1–15	1–9	1–9
Warranty and return policies	2-year warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee	2-year warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee	2-year warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee
Price	$399	$251	$251

Get Pulsetto FIT X

What does Pulsetto say?

Pulsetto isn’t shy about its marketing or claims, and with FIT X, the focus is firmly on building stress resilience.

The brand argues that stress is an unavoidable part of life that isn’t necessarily something we should try to eliminate altogether. Instead, Pulsetto suggests that stress can sometimes push us forward, and that learning to handle it better may be more useful than simply trying to avoid stressful situations.

That’s where its “Stress Fitness” approach comes in. Pulsetto encourages you to think about vagus nerve stimulation as a way to potentially help regulate your nervous system as well as build resilience over time.

The company compares it to physical fitness. Going to the gym isn’t always comfortable or convenient, and building strength takes consistent effort, but people still do it because they see the long-term benefits. Pulsetto wants you to look at stress in a similar way, with FIT X positioned as a potential tool for building that tolerance.

As Pulsetto puts it: “Train resilience. Build capacity. Perform better.”

Testing Pulsetto FIT X for a week

First, I’d note that one week is definitely a short testing period when it comes to vagus nerve stimulation and its potential benefits. I didn’t notice any particularly notable effects on my nervous system during this time, and the brand states that some benefits may only become apparent after a month of consistent use.

Getting started is easy once you’ve connected the device to the Pulsetto app. You’ll find a small bottle of gel in the box, which is used to improve conductivity between the electrodes and your skin. I personally prefer putting the gel directly on the electrode pads rather than spreading it all over my neck. It’s less messy and makes the post-session cleanup much easier.

Once the device is on your neck, the electrodes should sit on the sides rather than near your trachea. You may feel some pressure around the area, so it’s worth taking time to adjust the position and size until you find the most comfortable fit.

The companion app gives you eight preset programs to choose from. Focus, Stress, Calm, Sleep, and Release are available with the free version, while Head, Recovery, and Gut are unlocked with a subscription.

I tested five of the programs, and honestly, I couldn't point to any obvious differences in the sensation between them. What did change was how much intensity I could tolerate in each mode, but whether that comes down to technical differences between the programs or simply my own perception, I’m not entirely sure.

My experience with intensity and sensation

Like previous Pulsetto devices I’ve tried, I wouldn’t describe FIT X as particularly pleasant, although it’s not painful either. It’s also one of those sensations that’s difficult to explain because everyone is likely to experience it differently.

For me, the sensation was pretty strong, but other Wareable testers were able to handle higher intensity levels and didn’t find the experience as unsettling.

In my view, the lower intensities, around levels 1–3, felt a little like the bass reverberating through your body at a concert. It wasn’t too bad, and I could even see someone finding it quite pleasant. By level six, the sensation became more ticklish, almost like ants walking across my skin. Again, it wasn’t painful, but slightly uncomfortable after a few minutes.

My tolerance usually topped out at around level eight. At that point, the sensation started feeling more like pins and needles, and I had to take the device off.

That was actually mild compared with one Wareable team member’s experience. They wanted to see what the highest intensity felt like but couldn’t keep the electrode pads against their skin for more than a few seconds. They said it felt painful, with their muscles contracting, so they immediately switched the mode off.

After testing thoughts

A week isn’t long enough for me to draw any big conclusions, and my team and I will continue using FIT X to get a better feel for it. For now, though, my opinion is conflicted.

I like the look of the device, and the setup and session process is simple. The sensation, though, was difficult for me to get comfortable with, and I didn’t notice any measurable benefits during my week of testing. Of course, both of those are based on my own experience, so you may have a very different reaction.

It took me around three days just to get used to the sensation. Some sessions also take longer than others, and I wasn’t always sure whether I needed to complete the entire session to get any potential benefits. Some modes are programmed to last as little as four minutes, while others can run for up to 20 minutes. Though, the brand still recommends 4–10 minute sessions twice a day.

I also didn’t particularly feel a calming effect from the stimulation during the testing period. In part, I think the device itself made me a little apprehensive. Having previously tried Pulsetto models and other vagus nerve stimulation devices, though, I know that the immediate calming effect can sometimes become more noticeable after the first few weeks.

After all, nervous system regulation may take time and consistency, not to mention that everyone is likely to respond to vagus nerve stimulation devices differently.

App usability: Better, but what about the subscription?

I absolutely loved the updated Pulsetto Wellness app. It’s a big improvement, in my opinion, over the previous version, from the smoother setup, better progress tracking, and Offline Mode to the overall look of the app.

After downloading Pulsetto Wellness and signing in, you’ll create your personal profile by answering a few quick questions about your current condition. Based on your answers, the app then suggests which of the five free programs may be most suitable for you that day.

You’ll also get a recommended routine. As you can see in the image below, I was pointed towards Sleep, with Pulsetto suggesting two sessions a day for a couple of weeks to potentially improve my sleep quality. It’s all quite generalized, but I still found it a fun touch.

As I mentioned, there are eight programs in total: Focus, Stress, Calm, Sleep, Release, Head, Recovery, Gut. That said, only the first five are included for free. To unlock the other three, along with features such as music, Sleep Score, HRV, stress levels and more, you’ll need the $139 per year Premium Membership subscription.

Still, I believe the free version gives you plenty to play around with. You can track your sessions, see weekly and monthly trends, and log how you feel your well-being has changed. There’s also a streak system encouraging you to hit your daily session target.

Another nice aspect is the Achievements section. It gamifies the experience with wellness quests that become more challenging as you progress through the levels.

Besides all that, there’s one small addition I particularly appreciated. I’ve wanted Pulsetto to include proper program descriptions since the first model, because previously it wasn't clear what each mode was intended for. This time, Pulsetto has listened. All programs now come with a more detailed explanation, including examples of when you might want to use it and what potential benefits you can expect.

Overall, I have very little to complain about with the Pulsetto app. I haven’t run into any bugs, everything feels smooth, and aside from the occasional pop-up encouraging you to subscribe, the experience has been a huge step up.

Who should choose or skip Pulsetto FIT X?

Choose Pulsetto FIT X if:

• You want more a more cushioned, adjustable neckband
• You prefer having a wider range of intensity levels to experiment with
• You want larger electrode pads for more consistent contact with your skin
• You’re interested in potentially supporting relaxation and stress management
• You want to explore vagus nerve stimulation technology
• You like having an app that encourages you to stick to a regular routine

Check out Pulsetto FIT X

Skip Pulsetto FIT X if:

• You don’t like the feeling of wearing something around your neck
• You have implanted medical device
• You have a health condition or circumstance that may make vagus nerve stimulation unsuitable for you
• You’d rather use a simpler vagus nerve stimulation device without relying on an app
• You’re looking for a calming device without the electrical stimulation

Whether you choose FIT X or decide this model isn’t for you, it’s worth speaking with a healthcare professional first. This is especially important if you have an existing health condition, take medication, are pregnant, or have an implanted medical device. Your doctor can help you work out whether this type of stimulation is appropriate for you and advise you on any specific precautions.

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My final recommendation—is Pulsetto FIT X worth it?

So, is Pulsetto FIT X worth the investment? I’d say it can be a nice addition to your wellness routine if you don’t yet have a vagus nerve stimulation device or are looking for a polished Pulsetto experience.

The updated design, wider intensity range, and improved app make it feel like a more complete package than the older models. For me, though, the neck-based design remains the deciding factor. I know I’m not a big fan of wearing devices around my neck, so Pulsetto FIT X probably isn’t the best match for me.

Ultimately, think about your budget, what you want to get from vagus nerve stimulation, and how comfortable you are with the device before making the purchase.