An Oscillating vibration machine has a base plate which has a center fulcrum point.    The plate rises at one end while the other end lowers much like a see-saw movement.  The amount of rise and fall on the plate is very small, typically less than one inch at the outside edge.  This movement will maximize the amount of fat burning calories that the bodies fast twitch reflex muscle is capable of burning.  This particular style of movement will incorporate the fast twitch muscles in not just the legs, but also throughout the hips, back, and waist area.    This oscillating type of machine is better suited for people whose primary goal is weight loss and body toning.

Tri-Planar machines do not have a center fulcrum point like the oscillating machines they do not wobble from side to side.  The plate of a tri-planar machine moves up and down, side to side and front to back all at the same time.  This three dimensional range of movement is where the term tri-planar originates.  These machines typically have lower amplitudes but higher frequencies.     The differences in the two types allow the tri-planar machines to be more effective at increasing muscle strength, increasing bone density and for detoxification.  If weight loss body toning is your primary focus, an oscillating type machine is probably your best bet.  If you want overall wellness which includes some body toning, building muscle, increasing bone density, and detoxification then a tri-planar machine is more suitable for you.