Joovv Mini 3: An Alternative to Vellgus Mini or Not? Let’s Find Out

In the ever-evolving world of red light therapy (RLT), two compact yet powerful devices have been making waves: the Joovv Mini 3 and the Vellgus Mini. Both promise the benefits of red and near-infrared (NIR) light therapy in a portable package, but how do they really compare?

If you’re looking for an effective, at-home RLT solution but can’t decide between these two, you’re in the right place. We’ll break down their features, performance, pricing, and overall value to help you determine whether the Joovv Mini 3 is a true alternative to the Vellgus Mini—or if one stands clearly above the other.

Why Red Light Therapy? A Quick Refresher

Before diving into the comparison, let’s recap why red light therapy has gained such a devoted following. RLT uses specific wavelengths of red (660 nm) and near-infrared (850 nm) light to penetrate the skin and stimulate cellular energy (ATP) production. The benefits include:

Skin health (collagen production, reduced wrinkles, acne improvement)
Muscle recovery & pain relief (reduced inflammation, faster healing)
Improved sleep & circadian rhythm
Enhanced hair growth
General wellness & anti-aging effects

Both the Joovv Mini 3 and Vellgus Mini aim to deliver these benefits in a convenient, travel-friendly format—but which one does it better?

Joovv Mini 3 vs. Vellgus Mini: Head-to-Head Comparison

1. Design & Portability

Joovv Mini 3: Sleek, lightweight (1.5 lbs), with a magnetic mounting system for hands-free use. It has a modern, medical-grade aesthetic.
Vellgus Mini: Compact, slightly heavier (2.0 lbs), with a sturdy stand and a more industrial look.

Verdict: Both are highly portable, but the Joovv Mini 3’s magnetic attachment gives it an edge for versatility.

2. Light Specifications & Power

Joovv Mini 3:
- Wavelengths: 660 nm (red) + 850 nm (NIR)
- Power Density: ~100 mW/cm² (at 6 inches)
- LEDs: Medical-grade, high-intensity
Vellgus Mini:
- Wavelengths: 630 nm, 660 nm (red) + 810 nm, 850 nm (NIR)
- Power Density: ~80-90 mW/cm² (at 6 inches)
- LEDs: High-quality, slightly broader spectrum

Verdict: The Joovv Mini 3 has a slightly stronger power density, but the Vellgus Mini offers a broader range of wavelengths, which may be beneficial for some users.

3. Treatment Area & Coverage

Joovv Mini 3: Covers ~12 x 6 inches, best for targeted areas (face, joints, small muscle groups).
Vellgus Mini: Covers ~10 x 7 inches, similar targeting but with a slightly different LED arrangement.

Verdict: Nearly identical—neither is designed for full-body treatment, but both work well for localized therapy.

4. Ease of Use & Features

Joovv Mini 3:
- 60-second auto-shutoff (safety feature)
- No timer (requires manual monitoring)
- Magnetic mount for flexible positioning
Vellgus Mini:
- Built-in timer (1-30 mins)
- Stand included for hands-free use
- Slightly more user-friendly controls

Verdict: The Vellgus Mini’s built-in timer makes it more convenient, but the Joovv Mini 3’s magnetic mount offers better adjustability.

5. Price & Value

Joovv Mini 3: $395 (often with discounts on their website)
Vellgus Mini: $349 (sometimes lower with promotions)

Verdict: The Vellgus Mini is slightly more affordable, but Joovv’s brand reputation and build quality may justify the extra cost for some.

Which One Should You Choose?

Pick the Joovv Mini 3 if:

✅ You want higher power density for potentially faster results.
✅ You prefer a sleeker, more medical-grade design.
✅ The magnetic mounting system appeals to you for flexible placement.

Pick the Vellgus Mini if:

✅ You want a built-in timer for hassle-free sessions.
✅ You like having multiple wavelengths (630 nm, 810 nm) for broader benefits.
✅ You’re looking for a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality.

Final Verdict: Is the Joovv Mini 3 a True Alternative?

Yes—but with caveats.

The Joovv Mini 3 is a fantastic device with strong performance and premium build quality, making it a great alternative to the Vellgus Mini. However, the Vellgus Mini holds its own with a broader wavelength range, built-in timer, and slightly lower price.

Who Wins?

For power & brand trust → Joovv Mini 3
For convenience & value → Vellgus Mini

Ultimately, your choice depends on what features matter most to you. Both devices deliver excellent red light therapy—it just comes down to personal preference!