Uni-Patch vs Richmar TENS Electrodes: Which Pad Wins?
By Physiotherapy & Electrotherapy Equipment | Balego | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: Comparisons
Compare Uni-Patch grounding pads and Richmar cloth TENS electrodes to find the right pad for your electrotherapy device and treatment needs.
Quick Answer
Choose Richmar cloth TENS electrodes for standard TENS or EMS treatments, and choose the Uni-Patch grounding pad only if your device requires a patient return electrode for high-pulse galvanic stimulation.
Understand the difference: grounding pad vs TENS pad
Not all electrode pads work the same way. The Uni-Patch Model 800 grounding pad is a patient return electrode designed for compatible high-pulse galvanic stimulators, not for everyday TENS or EMS. The Richmar InTENSity cloth electrodes are reusable, self-adhering pads for TENS, EMS/NMES, interferential, and related devices.
If you use a standard TENS or EMS unit, a grounding pad won't replace your regular electrode pads. Conversely, if your device requires a return electrode, standard TENS pads may not provide the correct connection.
Reusable design and comfort
The Richmar InTENSity electrodes combine a flexible conductive carbon layer with self-adhering hydrogel and a soft white cloth backing. This construction supports repeated use while staying comfortable against the skin.
The Uni-Patch grounding pad is also soft and flexible, but its main job is to serve as a return electrode in specialty stimulation workflows. It's supplied one pad per pack, so it's not meant for multi-site or daily replacement.
Trade-Offs at a Glance
- Device compatibility: Check your device manual. If it lists a return electrode for high-pulse galvanic stimulation, choose the Uni-Patch grounding pad. For standard TENS or EMS, choose Richmar cloth electrodes. Always verify device compatibility before buying.
- Reusability: Richmar electrodes are designed for multiple uses with proper care. The Uni-Patch grounding pad is supplied one per pack and is intended for clinical or specialty workflows, so plan for single-use or limited reuse.
- Comfort and fit: Richmar's soft cloth backing and flexible carbon layer make it comfortable for regular sessions on various body areas. The Uni-Patch pad is larger (4" x 7") and soft, but its size is meant for return electrode placement, not targeted stimulation. For targeted therapy, choose the smaller Richmar pads.
Product Facts
- Uni-Patch Model 800 Grounding Pad EP85224 | 4" x 7" Patient Return Electrode: The Uni-Patch Model 800 grounding pad is a soft, flexible patient return electrode for compatible high-pulse galvanic stimulators, measuring 4" x 7" and supplied one per pack. This pad is a specialized return electrode, not a general-purpose TENS pad, so only use it if your device requires it.
Uni-Patch Model 800 Grounding Pad EP85224 | 4" x 7" Patient Return Electrode - Richmar InTENSity 2" × 2" White Cloth TENS Electrodes — 40 Pack: The Richmar InTENSity 2" x 2" white cloth electrodes are reusable, self-adhering pads with a flexible conductive carbon layer, hydrogel, and soft cloth backing. This makes them a versatile replacement for TENS, EMS/NMES, and interferential therapy, offering comfort and reusability for regular sessions.
Richmar InTENSity 2" × 2" White Cloth TENS Electrodes — 40 Pack
Which Pad Should You Choose?
Best for
- Users with compatible high-pulse galvanic stimulators that require a patient return electrode
- Clinical or specialty electrotherapy workflows needing a properly matched return electrode
Not for
- Standard TENS or EMS treatments that need multiple stimulation sites
- Users looking for a multi-pack of reusable pads for daily therapy
