Image: MuseEditor's PickMuse headband
The Muse 2 is a $249.99 EEG headband that turns your brain activity into real-time audio feedback while you meditate. It suits new meditators who want feedback on their sessions. We pick it because 11 randomised trials have used Muse and no subscription is required, though a 2025 meta-analysis found only a small drop in distress.
$249.99 no subscription required; Muse Premium optional at $49.99 a year
We may earn a commission from links on this page. Updated October 6, 2026.
Why we love it
It has been studied more than its rivals here. A 2025 JMIR meta-analysis pooled 16 randomised trials with 763 participants, 11 of them using Muse, and found a small drop in psychological distress versus controls (g = -0.16), though no gain in mindfulness.
The sensors pick up real brain signals. A 2017 Frontiers in Neuroscience study found the Muse EEG system recorded the N200, P300 and reward positivity signals across 2 experiments.
Testers found it easy to live with. TechRadar rated it 4 out of 5, found it as light as a pair of glasses, and praised the real-time audio feedback.
It costs less than the other devices in this category: $249.99 with no required subscription, against $299 for Sensate 2 and $448 for Apollo.
Key features
- Sensors
- 7, covering EEG, heart rate, posture and breathing, per TechRadar
- Battery
- 5 hours of continuous use, about 2 hours to recharge, per TechRadar
- Subscription
- Optional Muse Premium at $49.99 a year or $12.99 a month
- Warranty
- 1 year, per Muse
- Returns
- 30 days, per Muse
The proof
- A 2025 JMIR meta-analysis pooled 16 randomized trials with 763 participants, 11 of them using Muse, and found a small drop in psychological distress versus controls (g = -0.16, P = .03) but no gain in mindfulness (g = 0.02) or cognition (g = 0.07). Source
- The same meta-analysis concluded that claims that consumer devices let users modulate their brains and deepen meditation are not currently supported. Source
- A 2017 Frontiers in Neuroscience study found the Muse EEG system recorded the N200, P300 and reward positivity signals across 2 experiments. Source
What owners say
- 4 out of 5 from 92 reviews on Amazon. Source, checked October 6, 2026.
Worth knowing
The benefits are modest: the 2025 meta-analysis authors concluded that claims that consumer devices deepen meditation are not currently supported. Guided courses also need the $49.99 yearly Premium.
Best for
Questions
Does the Muse headband actually help you meditate?
It gives real feedback, but the measured benefits are small. A 2017 study found its sensors record genuine EEG signals. A 2025 meta-analysis of 16 trials, 11 using Muse, found a small drop in psychological distress (g = -0.16) but no gain in mindfulness or cognition.
Do you need a subscription for Muse 2?
No. The Muse 2 works without one. Muse Premium is optional at $49.99 a year or $12.99 a month, and PureWow notes that guided courses need it. Two years with Premium comes to about $350 including the $249.99 headband.
How long does the Muse 2 battery last?
TechRadar measured about 5 hours of continuous use per charge, roughly 2 weeks of daily 15-minute sessions, with a 2-hour recharge. Muse's own Muse 2 page says 10 hours, but that text appears to describe the Muse S, so we use TechRadar's figure.
Muse 2 vs Apollo Neuro: which should I buy?
Choose the Muse 2 if you will sit for a meditation session and want feedback on it; choose Apollo if you want something to wear while you work. Muse costs $249.99 with an optional subscription; Apollo costs $448 including a year of membership that renews at $99. Both have peer-reviewed studies with modest results.
About Muse
Muse makes EEG headbands that give real-time feedback while you meditate, including models designed for sleep.
Feedback that makes meditation feel less like guesswork.
Muse headband: $249.99 no subscription required; Muse Premium optional at $49.99 a year
Check price at MuseWe may earn a commission from links on this page.
More in mind
Apollo wearable
A vibration device you wear on the wrist or ankle or clip to clothing, $448 with one year of membership.
Best for busy days with no time to meditate
Sensate 2
A $299 pebble you rest on your chest for about 10-minute sessions of soundscapes and near-infrasound vibration.
Best for short wind-down before bed