When someone loses a hand or an arm, the first big decision after healing is which type of prosthetic to choose.
For many, the choice comes down to two main types: myoelectric prosthetics and body-powered prosthetics. Both can restore movement, both can bring back independence, but they work in very different ways—and they come with very different costs.
That raises the key question: which one gives you the best return on your investment?
In this guide, we’ll break down the price, performance, comfort, and long-term value of myoelectric and body-powered prosthetics in India. We’ll keep it simple, practical, and clear—so you can make the choice that’s right for your life.
Let’s begin.
What Are Myoelectric Prosthetics?
How They Work
Myoelectric prosthetics run on the natural signals from your muscles.
When you flex certain muscles in your arm, tiny sensors on the skin pick up those signals. The signals are then sent to motors inside the prosthetic, which move the fingers, hand, or wrist.
This makes the movement feel more natural. You don’t have to pull cables or move your shoulder—you just use your own muscles, like before.
Why They Feel Natural
Because the prosthetic responds directly to muscle signals, the control feels closer to real movement.
You can grip a cup, turn a key, or pick up small objects with more precision. Some advanced models even allow multiple grip styles, so you can adjust how you hold things depending on the task.
For many users, this natural control is what makes myoelectric prosthetics worth the higher cost.
Who Benefits Most
Myoelectric hands are a great option for people who want more independence in daily life and tasks that require fine motor skills.
They are especially useful for younger professionals, students, or people in active roles where appearance and function both matter.
However, they also require training, good muscle strength, and regular charging—so they’re not always the best fit for everyone.
What Are Body-Powered Prosthetics?
How They Work
Body-powered prosthetics don’t use electricity or motors. Instead, they use a system of cables and harnesses.
When you move your shoulder or upper body, the cable pulls on the prosthetic hand or hook, making it open or close.
It’s simple and effective, relying entirely on body power.
Why They’re Reliable
Since there are no electronics, there’s less chance of breakdowns. You don’t need to charge them, and they’re usually lighter than myoelectric devices.
For many users, especially in rural areas or for those who prefer low-maintenance devices, body-powered prosthetics are a practical choice.
Who Benefits Most
Body-powered prosthetics are often chosen by people who want durability, affordability, and low maintenance.
They work well for users who do physical work or live in environments where charging and servicing may not be easy.
They may not look as natural as myoelectric hands, but they get the job done—and for some, that’s more important.
Price Comparison: Myoelectric vs Body-Powered
Myoelectric Costs
Myoelectric prosthetics are more expensive because they include advanced technology.
In India, the price of a myoelectric hand usually ranges from ₹2 lakh to ₹10 lakh or more, depending on the brand, features, and whether it’s imported or made locally.
Indian-made solutions like Grippy™ Bionic Hand by RoboBionics are priced between ₹2.15–₹3 lakh, making them much more affordable than imported models.
Body-Powered Costs
Body-powered prosthetics are significantly cheaper.
In India, they can cost as little as ₹20,000 to ₹1.5 lakh, depending on materials, customization, and provider.
Since they don’t use electronics, the long-term maintenance costs are also lower.
Value for Money
The choice is not just about upfront price. It’s about what you get in return.
Myoelectric devices cost more, but they provide better control, more natural movement, and sometimes even touch feedback.
Body-powered devices cost less, but they’re durable, simple, and effective in tough conditions.
The real question is: what’s more important for your lifestyle—precision and appearance, or durability and low cost?
Return on Investment: Thinking Beyond the Price Tag
Why ROI Matters in Prosthetics
When people hear the term “return on investment,” they usually think about business or finance. But it applies just as much to prosthetics.
You’re not simply buying a device. You’re investing in your health, your independence, and your quality of life.
The question isn’t only “how much does it cost?” but also “what do I get back for what I spend?”
ROI with Myoelectric Prosthetics
For many users, the higher upfront cost of a myoelectric prosthetic is justified by the benefits it brings every day.
You can perform tasks that are difficult or impossible with a body-powered prosthetic—like typing smoothly, holding delicate objects, or using tools with precision.
This functionality can help users return to work faster, especially in jobs that require fine motor control or public interaction.
Professionals, students, and younger users often report that the natural look and advanced control of a myoelectric hand boosts their confidence in social and professional settings.
That confidence is part of the ROI. Being able to shake someone’s hand, write your name, or present in a meeting without drawing unwanted attention is valuable.
Over time, these daily wins can outweigh the higher initial cost.
ROI with Body-Powered Prosthetics
Body-powered prosthetics offer a different kind of ROI.
They may not look as natural, but they’re reliable. They don’t need charging. They’re less likely to break down. And they’re much cheaper.
For people who do heavy physical work, or for those living in rural areas where service centers are rare, this reliability is priceless.
Their ROI comes from simplicity and long-term durability. A body-powered device might not give the same social or cosmetic benefits as a myoelectric one, but it allows the user to carry heavy items, work in tough conditions, and live without worrying about repairs or charging cycles.
For families on a tight budget, the lower price itself is a huge part of the ROI—it means more people can access prosthetics without going into debt.
Thinking About Long-Term Costs
Upfront cost is just one part of the equation. You also have to think about maintenance.
Myoelectric prosthetics may require servicing, battery replacements, or software updates. These costs add up over time.
Body-powered prosthetics, by contrast, have fewer parts that can fail. Most of the time, only the cable or harness may need replacement after long use.
So while myoelectric devices give you higher functionality, they also come with ongoing costs. Body-powered devices save you money on maintenance, but at the expense of advanced features.
How ROI Differs by User
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The ROI depends on who you are and what you need.
If you are a young professional who needs to write, type, and interact socially, a myoelectric prosthetic might give you the best return—even if it costs more.
If you are a farmer or laborer who needs to carry loads, work long hours outdoors, and doesn’t want to deal with electronics, a body-powered prosthetic will likely give you better ROI.
If you are a student preparing for the future, investing in a myoelectric device could mean better job opportunities and greater independence down the road.
If you are retired and mainly need support for simple daily tasks, a body-powered prosthetic may be all you need.
The key is to align the device with your lifestyle, not just your budget.
Businesses and ROI: What Clinics Should Consider
For prosthetic clinics and healthcare providers, ROI has another meaning: patient satisfaction and long-term trust.
A clinic that only pushes high-cost myoelectric devices may alienate users who can’t afford them. A clinic that only offers body-powered options may miss serving those who want advanced technology.
The best approach is to offer both, educate users on the pros and cons, and help them make informed choices.
This builds credibility and trust. And in the long run, a satisfied user brings more referrals than any advertisement.
Actionable Advice for Clinics:
- Offer demo sessions for both types of prosthetics so users can experience the difference.
- Be transparent about cost and maintenance requirements.
- Provide financing options for myoelectric devices and low-cost entry options for body-powered ones.
- Track patient outcomes to understand which device type delivers the best ROI for different user groups.
By doing this, clinics can align their services with user needs while also building sustainable business growth.
Comfort and Usability: How Each Device Feels in Daily Life
Comfort with Myoelectric Prosthetics
Myoelectric hands are designed to feel natural and intuitive. Since they rely on muscle signals instead of body movements like shrugging or pulling cables, they reduce strain on the shoulders and back.
For many users, this means they can wear the device for longer hours without fatigue.
Another advantage is cosmetic appearance. Myoelectric prosthetics often look more like natural hands. For people in public-facing roles, this adds a layer of social comfort that goes beyond physical use.
But there are also challenges. The sockets must fit well, or the sensors won’t pick up muscle signals accurately. If the limb sweats too much—a common issue in India’s hot climate—signals may get disrupted.
So, while myoelectric prosthetics can feel effortless when working well, they need fine-tuning, care, and training to truly feel like a part of your body.
Comfort with Body-Powered Prosthetics
Body-powered prosthetics are simpler but require more physical effort to use.
Since they rely on harnesses and cables, users often have to move their shoulders or back in specific ways to control the hand. Over time, this can cause strain or fatigue, especially during long hours of use.
They also don’t look as natural. Many use hooks or basic mechanical hands that prioritize function over appearance. For some users, this may affect confidence in social settings.
However, body-powered prosthetics are lighter, which can make them easier to carry all day. And because they don’t rely on electronics or sensors, they’re more forgiving in hot, sweaty conditions.
In short, body-powered prosthetics trade natural movement and aesthetics for durability and simplicity.
Training and Adaptation
Every prosthetic comes with a learning curve.
Myoelectric users need to learn how to contract the right muscles in the right way. At first, this may feel awkward. But once the brain adapts, control becomes smooth and natural. Training may take weeks or months, depending on the user’s muscle strength and dedication.
Body-powered users, on the other hand, must learn how to coordinate their shoulder or chest movements to control the cables. This is often easier to pick up but harder to sustain for long periods without fatigue.
The difference comes down to effort. Myoelectric prosthetics require brain training; body-powered prosthetics require physical effort.
Both types need practice, patience, and support from trained therapists to reach their full potential.
Long-Term Sustainability: Thinking Years Ahead
Lifespan of Myoelectric Prosthetics
A well-maintained myoelectric prosthetic can last 3–5 years before major replacement is needed.
But because it uses electronics, some parts may require servicing sooner. Batteries may need replacement every 1–2 years. Sensors and motors may also need repairs depending on usage.
With regular support from the manufacturer, these costs can be managed. But they do add up, which is why planning for long-term maintenance is essential.
Lifespan of Body-Powered Prosthetics
Body-powered prosthetics usually last longer with less maintenance. The cable or harness may need replacing every couple of years, but the device itself can serve reliably for 5–7 years or more.
For users in rural areas or those who want a simple, long-lasting device, this durability is a huge advantage.
However, because they don’t provide fine motor control, users may eventually want to upgrade—especially younger users who outgrow basic function and desire more independence.
Cost of Replacement
It’s important to think about replacement costs early.
A second or third prosthetic over a lifetime is not unusual. If you plan for it, the transition feels easier. If not, the sudden expense can be overwhelming.
Clinics and manufacturers that help users plan for upgrades and replacements build stronger relationships and ensure smoother journeys.
Strategic ROI for Businesses and Clinics
Matching Devices to User Profiles
For clinics, the most important ROI comes from correctly matching the right device to the right user.
If you push an expensive myoelectric hand onto someone who can’t maintain it, the device will sit unused. That’s wasted money for the user—and lost trust for the business.
If you recommend only basic body-powered devices to someone who wants cosmetic appeal and precision, they may leave your clinic for another provider.
The best strategy is to listen first. Understand the user’s life, work, and goals. Then offer clear, honest recommendations that align with their needs and budget.
Building Trust Through Transparency
Nothing builds credibility faster than honesty.
Be upfront about costs, servicing, and limitations. Users appreciate providers who don’t just sell but guide.
This transparency often leads to stronger word-of-mouth referrals, which are more powerful than any advertisement.
Offering Financing and Support Options
High upfront costs remain a barrier for many users. By offering EMI, CSR-based subsidies, or NGO partnerships, clinics can make advanced devices accessible to more people.
This not only helps users but also expands the clinic’s customer base. It’s a win-win.
Rehabilitation and Its Role in ROI
Why Rehab Matters as Much as the Device
A prosthetic limb without proper rehabilitation is like buying a car without learning how to drive.
Users may receive the most advanced myoelectric or body-powered device, but without guidance, they won’t know how to use it fully.
That means frustration, underuse, and wasted investment. For both the user and the clinic, this is the worst outcome.
Rehab is what turns a prosthetic from a device into a part of someone’s life. It builds strength, improves coordination, and helps users regain confidence step by step.
Rehab with Myoelectric Prosthetics
Myoelectric prosthetics require focused training because the brain and muscles must learn to communicate with the sensors.
At first, it may feel strange. The prosthetic might not respond as expected, or signals may feel too weak. With guided practice, however, the brain adapts quickly.
Therapists often start with simple tasks—like opening and closing the hand—before moving to complex grips, like holding a pen or lifting a bottle.
The process can take weeks or months, but once learned, control becomes second nature. This is when the ROI of a myoelectric hand shines—users can achieve a high level of independence.
Rehab with Body-Powered Prosthetics
Body-powered prosthetics need a different kind of rehab.
Instead of muscle-signal training, users must strengthen their shoulders and chest to operate the harness and cable system.
Therapists guide them through exercises that build endurance and coordination. Users practice repetitive motions until the actions become automatic.
Though the learning curve is shorter, long-term use can lead to fatigue if posture or strength is not maintained. Regular follow-ups help prevent discomfort and ensure continued function.
Digital Tools in Rehabilitation
Rehab doesn’t have to feel boring or clinical. At RoboBionics, we created a Gamified Rehabilitation App that turns training into a fun, game-like experience.
Users practice with their prosthetic while playing interactive exercises, tracking progress, and staying motivated.
For clinics, digital rehab tools reduce the burden on staff while improving patient engagement. For users, they make training less intimidating and more rewarding.
Case Studies: ROI in Real Life
Case 1 – Ramesh, a College Student
Ramesh lost his hand in a bike accident at age 19. He initially tried a body-powered prosthetic but found it hard to use for long study hours and typing on a laptop.
When he switched to a myoelectric hand, his independence improved dramatically. He could take notes in class, type faster, and socialize with friends without feeling self-conscious.
Yes, the myoelectric device cost more. But for him, the ROI was education and career growth—something priceless in the long run.
Case 2 – Kavita, a Farmer
Kavita works in agriculture. She tried a myoelectric prosthetic but found the constant charging and servicing difficult in her rural village.
She returned to a body-powered prosthetic. It was cheaper, easier to maintain, and worked well for her farming needs.
Her ROI wasn’t about cosmetic appearance or fine movement—it was about reliability, durability, and affordability.
Case 3 – Clinics Serving Mixed Populations
A prosthetic clinic in Pune began offering both body-powered and myoelectric options.
By carefully matching devices to user needs, they increased patient satisfaction scores by 40% and saw more referrals from existing users.
Their ROI came not from selling the most expensive devices but from building trust and long-term relationships.
Business ROI Frameworks for Clinics
Cost-to-Value Alignment
For clinics, the goal is not just revenue but reputation. Pushing only high-priced devices may create short-term gains but hurt long-term trust.
Instead, offer a clear cost-to-value comparison. Help users see how each rupee spent translates into independence, comfort, or reliability.
This positions your clinic as a trusted advisor, not just a seller.
Building Lifetime Value
A single prosthetic fitting can turn into a lifelong relationship.
Users may need upgrades every few years. They may return for servicing, rehab, or adjustments. They may refer friends and family.
By focusing on long-term care instead of one-time sales, clinics can build predictable, sustainable growth.
Differentiation Through Support
In a crowded market, the real differentiator isn’t price—it’s service.
Clinics that offer rehab, emotional support, financing guidance, and digital tools stand out. Users talk about their experience, and word-of-mouth spreads.
This type of reputation is invaluable for business ROI.
Future Trends in Pricing and ROI
Falling Costs of Technology
Just as smartphones became cheaper over time, myoelectric prosthetics are also becoming more affordable.
With more Indian startups like RoboBionics building locally, users can expect world-class technology at lower prices in the coming years.
This will shift the ROI balance further in favor of myoelectric devices as they become accessible to more people.
Growing Role of Insurance and CSR
Insurance providers and CSR programs are slowly recognizing prosthetics as essential health investments.
As coverage expands, more people will be able to afford advanced devices. For clinics, this means a larger market and more opportunities to deliver high-value care.
Integration of AI and Smart Features
Future myoelectric prosthetics will likely include AI-driven adaptation, smarter grip patterns, and even better touch feedback.
For users, this means even higher ROI in terms of independence and daily function. For businesses, it means the opportunity to lead in a rapidly evolving market.
Final Thoughts: Myoelectric vs Body-Powered — Choosing Value Over Price
The Real Question Isn’t “Which Is Better?”
When comparing myoelectric and body-powered prosthetics, many people ask, “Which one is better?” But that’s the wrong question.
The real question is: “Which one is better for me?”
Every user is unique. Lifestyle, job, location, muscle strength, budget, and personal goals all matter. A device that gives excellent ROI for one person may not work for another.
That’s why the smartest approach is to align the prosthetic with the user’s real life, not just with features on paper.
Myoelectric ROI in One Line
You’re investing in advanced technology, natural control, and confidence in social and professional life. The payoff comes in independence, appearance, and precision.
Body-Powered ROI in One Line
You’re investing in simplicity, durability, and affordability. The payoff comes in reliability, low maintenance, and long-term use without heavy costs.
Advice for Users
- Don’t just look at the price tag. Think about daily use, comfort, and what matters to you.
- Try both types before deciding, if possible. A demo can change your perspective.
- Be honest with your provider about your lifestyle, work, and expectations. The more they know, the better they can guide you.
- Remember: ROI is not only about money. It’s about what the prosthetic gives you back in life.
Advice for Clinics and Providers
- Focus on education, not just sales. An informed user becomes a satisfied user.
- Offer both myoelectric and body-powered solutions to match different needs.
- Build trust by being transparent about costs, maintenance, and limitations.
- Think long-term: every user is a potential lifelong partner, not a one-time customer.
How RoboBionics Helps You Find the Right Fit
At RoboBionics, we’ve built the Grippy™ Bionic Hand to bring advanced myoelectric technology to India at an affordable price.
Made with 60 of 64 parts locally, it offers world-class function—including our patent-pending Sense of Touch™ technology—at a fraction of the cost of imports.
We also provide mechanical solutions for users who prefer simplicity and durability. And with our Gamified Rehabilitation App, training becomes fun and effective.
We’re not just building devices. We’re building independence, confidence, and trust.
Your Next Step
If you’re still deciding between myoelectric and body-powered prosthetics, don’t worry. You don’t have to figure it out alone.
Book a free demo with RoboBionics today. Try both options, ask questions, and find the one that truly fits your life.
Book now at www.robobionics.in/bookdemo
Because the right prosthetic isn’t just about price. It’s about what it gives you back—every single day.