In this article
The Bluefin Ultra Slim has been one of the UK’s best-selling vibration plates for years, and it’s easy to see why. It’s slim, simple and fairly priced in our ££ Entry band. But its 6 to 12Hz range is modest, and long-term durability reports are mixed. It’s a sound choice, though for a little more the LifePro Waver is the better plate.
Reasons to buy
- Slim and easy to store
- 180 speed levels and 5 programmes
- Huge owner base and UK-based brand
- Resistance cables included
Reasons to avoid
- Modest 6 to 12Hz range
- Some reports of uneven vibration and faults after the warranty
- Smaller platform than the LifePro Waver
The Ultra Slim was Bluefin’s breakthrough plate, and it has been on sale in the UK for nearly a decade. It still sells steadily in the ££ Entry band, and it often drops a little lower on Amazon.
With newer rivals now offering more for similar money, we looked at whether the Ultra Slim still deserves its place.
Key specs
| Price | ££ Entry (£100 to £200) |
|---|---|
| Motion | Vertical (Bluefin figure) |
| Frequency | 6 to 12Hz |
| Speed levels | 180, plus 5 programmes |
| Size | 67 x 38 x 14cm |
| Weight | 11.1kg |
| Extras | Remote, resistance cables |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Design and build
As its name suggests, the Ultra Slim is a low, flat board, 14cm tall and 11.1kg, which slides neatly under a bed or sofa. The aluminium and plastic body looks smart, and the controls are simple. It comes with a pair of resistance cables and a sweat-resistant remote.
At 67 x 38cm the platform is a touch smaller than the LifePro Waver, but still big enough for most standing exercises.
Performance
Bluefin lists 180 speed levels across a 6 to 12Hz range. That’s a lot of very small steps rather than a huge spread of intensity, so don’t expect level 180 to feel dramatically more powerful than a rival’s top setting. In practice the motion is pleasant and suitable for beginners and gentle daily use. More experienced users may find it runs out of puff.
A few long-term owners report that the vibration becomes uneven across the plate over time, and one detailed review describes one side giving way just after the two-year warranty ended. That’s a minority of owners, but it’s worth knowing about.
Ease of use
It’s very easy to use. Five automatic programmes vary the speed for you, or you can set your own. The remote is simple and works well.
What owners say
Many owners have used the Ultra Slim for years and are happy with it, with several saying it has helped their balance or eased aches. The most common criticisms are the limited top-end power and patchy support once the warranty has expired.
Should you choose the Ultra Slim Plus instead?
The Ultra Slim Plus costs a little more and adds detachable handles that you can hold for upper-body exercises. If you plan to use the plate for arm work, it’s worth the extra. If not, stick with the standard model.
How it scores
Overall score: 3.8 out of 5, which we call Good. Each area is scored out of five and weighted as explained in how we review.
Show how we worked it out
| Area | Weight | Score | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motion and power | 30% | 3.5 | 1.05 |
| Build and safety | 25% | 3.8 | 0.95 |
| Controls and features | 15% | 4.0 | 0.60 |
| Ease of use | 15% | 4.5 | 0.67 |
| Value for money | 15% | 3.7 | 0.56 |
Weighted average: 3.83, which rounds to our final score of 3.8.
Compare similar plates
Bluefin Ultra Slim
3.8/5Good- Price
- ££ Entry
- Motion
- Vertical (Bluefin figure)
- Max user
- Not stated
4.5/5Outstanding- Price
- ££ Entry
- Motion
- Oscillating
- Max user
- 150kg
3.9/5Good- Price
- ££ Entry
- Motion
- Not stated by MERACH
- Max user
- 200kg
3.8/5Good- Price
- ££ Entry
- Motion
- Oscillating
- Max user
- 117kg
Alternatives to consider
- LifePro Waver: stronger, roomier and better reviewed, for a little more.
- MERACH CV30 Pro: smaller and cheaper, with a grippy silicone top.
- Bluefin Pro: Bluefin’s upright model, if you’d like handlebars.
Bluefin Ultra Slim FAQs
Is the Bluefin Ultra Slim vertical or oscillating?
Bluefin describes it as vertical. Its 6 to 12Hz range is low for that type, so it feels like a gentle, even rumble rather than an intense buzz.
How long is the warranty?
Bluefin offers two years on the Ultra Slim. Register your plate and keep your receipt.
Should you buy the Bluefin Ultra Slim?
It’s a reasonable buy, especially if it’s on offer, but it’s no longer our first choice. For a little more money, the LifePro Waver gives you stronger motion, a bigger platform and a better long-term record.