What is the difference between figure-8 and H-coil (deep TMS)?

Figure-8 coils (NeuroStar, MagVenture, Magstim) deliver focused stimulation to a specific point on the prefrontal cortex — approximately 2–3 cm deep. H-coils (BrainsWay) use a proprietary design that creates a broader electric field reaching deeper brain structures — approximately 3–6 cm. H-coils are required for the OCD protocol and can target regions inaccessible to figure-8 coils.

How does neuronavigation work in TMS?

Neuronavigation uses MRI or CT scans to create a 3D map of the patient's brain, allowing the TMS coil to be positioned with millimeter precision at the optimal target location. This improves targeting accuracy compared to standard "landmark" methods (measuring from the ear). MRI-guided TMS is available through systems like Nexstim and as an option on most platforms.

Which TMS device is the most widely used in the US?

NeuroStar has the largest installed base in the US, with over 4,000 systems deployed. BrainsWay is the second most common and dominates the deep TMS market. MagVenture and Magstim are more prevalent in academic medical centers and research institutions. Clinic device availability varies by region.

Does the TMS device matter for treatment outcomes?

All FDA-cleared TMS devices have clinical evidence supporting their efficacy for depression. Head-to-head device comparison studies are limited, so it is difficult to say definitively that one device is superior. That said, device choice does affect available protocols: only BrainsWay is FDA-cleared for OCD via deep TMS, and only NeuroStar is cleared for anxious depression. Your treating psychiatrist will recommend the most appropriate device for your condition.

What is theta burst stimulation?

Theta burst stimulation (iTBS / theta burst) is an accelerated TMS protocol using bursts of 3 pulses at 50 Hz repeated at 5 Hz (mimicking the brain's theta rhythm). It delivers the equivalent of a standard 19-minute session in approximately 3 minutes of active stimulation. Supported by NeuroStar, MagVenture, and Magstim systems. FDA-cleared for major depressive disorder.

Can I choose which TMS device my clinic uses?

You generally cannot choose the device itself — your clinic purchases and maintains specific systems. However, you can search for clinics that use your preferred device. NeuroStar is the most widely available. If you specifically need deep TMS for OCD, look for clinics with BrainsWay. If MRI-guided neuronavigation is important to you, search for Nexstim-equipped clinics.

14 TMS Devices

The technology
behind your treatment.

From FDA-cleared clinical devices to cutting-edge research platforms — the magnetic stimulation systems shaping modern psychiatry.

Take the Eligibility Quiz Browse Protocols

14+

Devices

FDA Cleared

Protocols

How Does TMS Work? (Video)

Visual explanation of transcranial magnetic stimulation — the science behind the technology.

FDA-Cleared Devices

TMS Devices

FDA clearance, coil types, clinical evidence, and approved conditions for each platform.

NeuroStar Advanced Therapy

FDA 2008

Most widely deployed TMS system in the US with the patented SenStar touchscreen treatment system and figure-8 coil design. Features real-time motor threshold measurement and automated dose adjustment.

Most Used in US View Device

BrainsWay Deep TMS

FDA 2013 (MDD) / 2018 (OCD)

Deep TMS with proprietary H-coil technology. The only system FDA-cleared for both depression and OCD (2018). Targets deeper brain regions inaccessible to figure-8 coils.

Depression OCD Smoking Cessation

Deep TMS Pioneer View Device

MagVenture TMS

FDA 2015

Versatile platform from Denmark supporting multiple coil configurations. Widely used in clinical research and academic medical centers. Compatible with neuronavigation and theta burst protocols.

Research Standard View Device

CloudTMS

FDA 2019

Cloud-connected TMS platform with real-time treatment monitoring and analytics dashboard for clinicians. Designed for high-volume practice efficiency with automated session tracking.

Cloud Analytics View Device

Nexstim SmartFocus

FDA 2018

Navigated TMS with real-time MRI-guided targeting for precise cortical stimulation mapping. Used primarily in academic and research settings for individualized targeting.

MRI-Guided View Device

Magstim TMS

FDA 2008

UK-manufactured TMS system with over 35 years of heritage. Strong research pedigree with rapid stimulation capabilities. The Rapid2 system is one of the most cited in TMS literature.

Coil Type

Figure-8 / Double Cone

35+ Year Heritage View Device

Apollo TMS

FDA 2020

Advanced TMS system with precision targeting and ergonomic patient positioning. Features an intuitive interface designed for streamlined clinical workflows and patient comfort.

Coil Type

Figure-8

Manufacturer

APECS / TMS Solutions

FDA-Cleared For

Depression

Precision Targeting View Device

Apollo TMS

FDA 2020

Advanced TMS system with precision targeting and ergonomic patient positioning. Features an intuitive interface designed for streamlined clinical workflows and patient comfort.

Coil Type

Figure-8

Manufacturer

APECS / TMS Solutions

FDA-Cleared For

Depression

Precision Targeting View Device

Exomind Wellness TMS

Research Only

Wellness-focused TMS technology with a streamlined treatment workflow designed for high-volume practices. Less clinical evidence base than established platforms.

Wellness Focus View Device

MAG & More

FDA 2017

German-engineered TMS platform featuring the Apollo TMS system with figure-8 coil and ergonomic patient positioning. Widely used in European clinical and research settings.

European Standard View Device

Deymed TMS

FDA 2018

Czech-manufactured TMS equipment known for compact, clinic-friendly designs and value-oriented pricing. Used in smaller practices and emerging TMS markets.

Compact Design View Device

Understanding TMS Coil Types

The coil design determines stimulation depth, focality, and which brain regions can be targeted. Each has distinct clinical applications.

Figure-8 Coil

Delivers focused, superficial stimulation. Used by NeuroStar, MagVenture, Magstim, and CloudTMS. Targets approximately 2–3 cm into the cortex.

NeuroStar MagVenture Magstim

H-Coil (Deep TMS)

Proprietary BrainsWay design that creates a broader electric field reaching 3–6 cm deep. Can target deeper brain structures including the ACC, insula, and medial temporal regions.

BrainsWay

Double Cone Coil

Used primarily in research and for specific motor cortex applications. Creates a more diffuse field that can reach deeper into sulcal cortex. Common in Magstim systems.

Magstim Research

Brain Regions Targeted by TMS

Brain Region	Function	Coil Type	Clinical Application
Left DLPFC (BA46)	Mood regulation, emotional processing	Figure-8 / H-coil	Depression (most common target)
Right DLPFC (BA46)	Anxiety, emotional inhibition	Figure-8 / H-coil	Anxiety, PTSD, OCD
ACC (BA24/BA32)	Error monitoring, emotional regulation	H-coil (deep)	OCD (BrainsWay protocol)
Motor Cortex (M1)	Motor control, pain perception	Figure-8 / Double Cone	Stroke rehab, pain disorders
DMPFC / Pre-SMA	Cognitive control, decision making	H-coil / Navigated	SAINT protocol, addiction

Treatment Protocols

Stimulation Protocols

Different stimulation patterns and targeting methods — standard rTMS, theta burst, accelerated protocols, and neuronavigation.