The 10 Best Stress Balls

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This wiki has been updated 22 times since it was first published in May of 2018. Whether you're dealing with a lot of pressure at work, a tough situation at home, or just need some relief throughout the day, a simple stress ball can help. Our selection includes options in a variety of styles, shapes, and sizes, so you can tailor your choice to your needs. From foam to rubber and more, there's plenty here for you to take out all your frustrations on. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Serenilite Dura-Grip

2. Teacher Peach Motivational Assortment

3. Small Fish Fidget Toys Set

Editor's Notes

May 26, 2020:

To keep tension at bay, we've selected stress balls of all sizes and colors, ranging from those that are business-appropriate for office use to those that are bright, fun, and kid-friendly. But no matter which you choose, you'll want to keep them away from curious pets, as these aren't made to withstand chewing.

On the more sober side of the spectrum, we still think the Handstands Cyber Gel and the Serenilite Dura-Grip are good options. These have gel inside and boast a fabric covering, so there's no foam to make your hands smell. For something a little firmer, consider The Friendly Swede Squeeze Eggs, which are strong enough to help you strengthen your grip. Unfortunately, though, they have a rubbery exterior that tends to pick up hair and dirt, so if you have pets, you might find that the eggs become dirty quickly. If your stress seems too big for a mere ball or egg to tackle, there's the Small Fish Fidget Toys Set, which offers plenty of little gizmos to fidget with, including a liquid motion timer.

As for choices that you're more likely to find on the playground than at the office, we've selected the Gloworks Llama and the YoYa Toys Beadeez Unicorn. Of course, adults are welcome to play with them, too, since these little toys can help alleviate anxiety. But these models may be too bright and whimsical for some settings, and in the case of the Llama, even a bit messy. These are priced appropriately, but if you need something even more budget-friendly, perhaps to act as party favors, the Koogel Globe or the Neliblu Be Happy Smile may be a better bet. Sold in packs of 24, these stress balls are simple but entertaining nevertheless.

Special Honors

DiscountMugs Brain You'll stay at the front of your clients' minds with the DiscountMugs Brain, a customizable option that makes a great promotional giveaway. Whether you're running a medical practice or a school, these squishy balls can be printed with a logo or text, but keep in mind that you'll need to order in bulk to receive the most affordable pricing. discountmugs.com

Stexe Tardigrade Stress-o-cizer Depending on how you feel about creepy creatures, the Stexe Tardigrade Stress-o-cizer will either help you relax — or make your skin crawl. Each resembles the "water bear" of its namesake, measuring 3 inches tall and nearly 2 inches wide, and comes with a plastic ring that acts as a display stand. etsy.com

4. The Friendly Swede Squeeze Eggs

5. Handstands Cyber Gel

6. Gloworks Llama

This item has been flagged for editorial review and is not available.

7. StringyBall Secure

8. Neliblu Be Happy Smile

9. YoYa Toys Beadeez Unicorn

10. Koogel Globe


Melissa Harr
Last updated by Melissa Harr

Melissa Harr is a language-obsessed writer from Chicagoland who holds both a bachelor of arts and master of arts in English. Although she began as a TEFL teacher, earning several teaching certificates and working in both Russia and Vietnam, she moved into freelance writing to satisfy her passion for the written word. She has published full-length courses and books in the realm of arts & crafts and DIY; in fact, most of her non-working time is spent knitting, cleaning, or committing acts of home improvement. Along with an extensive knowledge of tools, home goods, and crafts and organizational supplies, she has ample experience (okay, an obsession) with travel gear, luggage, and the electronics that make modern life more convenient.


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