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Getting a massage is one of life’s greatest joys—and they don’t just feel good, they’re good for us. As massage therapist Nora Fantry points out, “A good massage helps with range of motion, flexibility, it’s great for your nervous system, and it helps your body relax so when you go back to being active, your muscles contract well. If you’re always contracting your muscles, they can’t function as well as when you also release them.”
Despite the many benefits and pleasures of massage, though, most people don’t get them regularly. “Cost can be a prohibitive factor for people,” admits Fantry. “And, people often also have fear around being vulnerable or treating themselves to something they think is a luxury item, which can stop them from coming in.” A massage chair, then, can be a great way to get regular massages in the comfort and privacy of your own home. If you’re in the market for a quality one, we’ve rounded up a list of some of the best massage chairs out there.
What to consider when buying massage chairs
Consider your pain factors
If you’re planning to use your massage chair to treat your pain, consider what type of pain you're experiencing, and make sure your massage chair includes features that will help alleviate it. Nicole Reiss, physical therapist and clinic manager at Potrero Physical Therapy in San Francisco, explains that, “People with arthritis or muscle pain can really benefit from heat. Or as a different example, with a stenosis issue in your lower back, sometimes that patient is more comfortable in a slightly more lumbar-flexed position, so a chair that provides that sort of arch might be more comfortable for that person. So it depends on where and how you’re experiencing the pain.”
Style versus substance
Some massage chairs are enormous, bulky, or have a high-tech appearance, while others are sleek and designed to fit into the decor of the room. So, when shopping for a massage chair, consider your priorities and space. If you’ve got room to spare, and your top priority is grabbing a chair that’s packed with all the best features, you might want one with a bulkier or more high-tech appearance. But if style is your top priority, there are many chairs available that are beautifully crafted.
Partial massage versus full body
Some massage chairs are designed to massage the entire body, from feet and calf muscles up to the neck, while other chairs target the full back, or just certain parts of the back. Typically, the higher up the price scale you go, the more full-body massage options you’ll find.
Our top picks for the best massage chairs
Best budget massage chair: Comhoma Recliner Chair Massage Rocker
Comhoma’s massage chair reclines, rocks, massages, and heats, plus it has a footrest and built-in drink holders. It’s crafted out of soft leather and offered in three color options, all for under $300. The multi-point massage system and 151-degree recline feature is essential for relaxation. This chair looks and feels like a quality massager—it’ll have your friends and family asking if they can take a turn.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 37.4 inches x 35.8 inches x 40.9 inches
- Massage areas: 8-point massage system including upper, middle, and lower
- Heat: Heating temperature up to 98.6°F
- Recline: Push back recliner mechanism, 151 degrees
- Programs: 4 modes vibration massage
- Warranty: 30-day right of return
- Price: $259.99
What we like:
- Comfortable with supportive padding
- Four separate vibration modes
- Price is not prohibitive
What we don’t like:
- Must use handle to pop out footrest
- Size is smaller than expected
- Can be difficult to put the leg rest down
The bottom line:
A comfortable modern massage chair that looks and feels good. Perfect for anyone looking for next-level relaxation.
COMHOMA Recliner Chair Massage Rocker with Heated PU Leather Ergonomic Lounge 360 Degree Swivel Sofa Seat with Drink Holders Living Room Chair Cream
Best portable massage chair: Homedics Shiatsu Elite II Heated Back Massager Cushion
When it comes to a portable massage chair, you want something substantial enough that it still delivers a quality massage, yet is also lightweight enough to be moved around. This device fits easily onto a chair but also cradles your entire back and glutes, and is lightweight to boot. Simple straps that fit most any chair allows for ultimate flexibility with this mobile massager.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 30 inches x 7.75 inches x 19.63 inches
- Massage areas: Upper and lower
- Heat: Optional heat for neck and back
- Recline: Cushion based, recline functionality depends on chair
- Programs: 3 different massage style options
- Warranty: 2-Year limited warranty
- Price: $202.99
What we like:
- Adjustable height of the neck/head massager
- Fits on most chairs easily with strap system
- Hand-held remote offers easy customization
What we don’t like:
- Some massage modes can be more painful than others
- Less convenient for taller persons
- Price is higher than expected
The bottom line:
A convenient modern massage cushion that works almost anywhere. This massager is competitively priced, easily adjustable, and always effective.
Homedics Shiatsu Elite II Heated Back Massager Cushion
Best 4D massage chair: Osaki OS-4D Escape
Osaki is known for quality, and its OS-4D Escape is a luxurious model with a bunch of features, most notably the 4D feature. This technology maps the curvature of your back and allows the user to control the length of the rollers. Loaded with up to nine manual and six massage modes, few chairs can compete with this level of quality. Lumbar heat therapy and specialized foot rollers will help you feel less stressed in no time.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 59 inches x 32.5 inches x 54.5 inches
- Massage areas: Upper, middle, and lower
- Heat: Heat therapy available on calf and lumbar areas
- Recline: 2 recline area options
- Programs: 6 massage programs, control panel offers 10 adjustments
- Warranty: 30 day warranty
- Price: $3,999
What we like:
- Unique design and capability
- Space capsule cover offers privacy
- Aroma cartridge provides scent relaxation
What we don’t like:
- Price will be prohibitive for most
- Chair is very large
- Item is quite heavy
The bottom line:
For top-of-the-line massage chairs, Osaki provides a rare experience.
Osaki OS-4D Escape (Dark Brown & Black) 4D Roller Mechanism with S-Track, Chromo-Therapy Space Capsule Cover, Heating on Lumbar and Calf with Full Body Airbag Massage.
Most comfortable massage chair: Osaki Os-Pro Admiral AS Massage Chair
The Osaki brand is known for quality, and this chair comes with a number of top tier features, like full-body air massage, 3D technology, zero gravity, and unique foot rollers. The specialized Auto Body Scan can help ensure the optimal amount of pressure applied during the massage. Inspired by NASA technology, the zero-gravity position is the perfect way to enjoy your massage. Heating pads in the lumbar add to the loosening of muscles.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 64.2 inches x 30.7 inches x 50 inches
- Massage Areas: Upper, middle, and lower
- Heat: Heat on lumbar
- Recline: Recline available with zero-gravity position
- Programs: 15 different auto massage programs
- Warranty: 30-day warranty
- Price: $3,999
What we like:
- 24 airbags offer full-body massage
- 3D technology allows the user to adjust rollers
- Bottom rollers offer unique foot massage
What we don’t like:
- Price may be out of reach for some
- Aesthetic might be off-putting
- Assembly may take some time
The bottom line:
Despite being a large initial investment, few chairs offer the comfort and full body massage benefits of the Osaki Os-Pro Admiral AS. Multiple massage styles and zero gravity availability make this chair one of the best on the market.
Osaki Os-Pro Admiral AS Massage Chair
Best zero gravity massage chair: iRest Massage Chair
A zero-gravity chair puts your body in a reclined position where your legs are elevated above your heart. This position can help alleviate pressure from the spine and impart a relaxing, weightless sensation. This massage chair has three zero-gravity levels, allowing you to personalize your zero-gravity experience. While generally safe to use, Fantry notes that anyone with blood clots, or anyone who is taking blood thinners, should speak to a doctor before using a zero-gravity chair.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 61.02 inches x 29.92 inches x 45.08 inches
- Massage areas: Neck, back, waist, hip, and leg
- Heat: Heat options to stimulate blood flow
- Recline: Full-body zero-gravity recline options
- Programs: 5 different massage techniques
- Warranty: 3-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Price: $2,199
What we like:
- Chair looks sleek and modern
- AI voice control adds to ease of use
- Price is reasonable compared to others
What we don’t like:
- Chair somewhat narrow
- Less convenient for taller users
- AI can pick up outside noise like TV sounds
The bottom line:
For an all-around massage chair with a breadth of features and zero gravity recline capability, the iRest massage chair is a good option.
iRest Massage Chair
Best compact massage chair: Synca Circ+ Massage Chair
This chair is sleek and luxurious, packed with features, yet relatively lightweight and slim compared to other top of the line models. Deep circular kneading massage movement offers superior comfort in a convenient setting. With a clean, modern look, it should easily fit in with other furniture.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 36.25 inches X 23.25 inches X 42 inches
- Massage areas: Upper and lower
- Heat: Heat option is available
- Recline: Zero-gravity recline
- Programs: 8 auto courses
- Warranty: 2-year product warranty
- Price: $1,599.99
What we like:
- Wireless remote
- Clean and modern looking
- Chair weight is lighter than most
What we don’t like:
- Chair is undersized for larger individuals
- Stronger massage settings can be overwhelming
- When in use, chair makes noticeable noise
The bottom line:
Great value for anyone looking for an all-around massage chair with plenty of features.
Synca Circ+ Massage Chair
Best luxury massage chair: Kyota Yutaka M898 4D Massage Chair
Your entire body will be cradled and massaged with this ultra-luxurious 4D massage chair. It features true zero-gravity recline, a wireless charging pad, and 4D technology to mimic the hands of a professional massage therapist. An easy-access joystick, Bluetooth connectivity, and onboard nature sounds are the type of features you’d expect in this premium product. Using triple-shiatsu rollers and intelligent voice control, the Kyota Yutaka M898 is one of the best at helping you relax.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 67 inches x 35 inches x 49 inches
- Massage areas: Upper, middle, lower
- Heat: Soothing lumbar heat
- Recline: Zero-gravity recline
- Programs: 12 choreographed auto programs
- Warranty: 30-day warranty
- Price: $9,999
What we like:
- Nature sounds help relax you
- Phone charging capabilities
- Footrest extension helps support different size users
What we don’t like:
- High end quality is reflected in the price
- Chair size is not convenient
- Item is rather heavy
The bottom line:
For top of the line massage chairs, the Kyota Yutaka M898 is unbeatable in quality and offers enough programmability and features for anyone.
Kyota Yutaka M898 4D Massage Chair
Massage chair with the best features: BestMassage Full Body Electric Shiatsu Massage Chair Recliner
This chair features airbag massagers, a bluetooth speaker, vibrating smart body scanning, heating, calf massage and feet rollers, plus six different auto programs for the ultimate relaxation. The manual mode allows you more individual customization over your massage, while the built-in sensor measures the length of your spine, helping the chair know exactly where to massage. Multiple massage modes and Smart Body Scan technology make this a can’t-miss chair everyone should consider.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 42 inches x 55 inches x 35 inches
- Massage areas: Upper, middle, lower
- Heat: Heat therapy system for back and feet
- Recline: Zero-gravity recline
- Programs: 7 massage modes
- Warranty: 30-day warranty
- Price: $799.99
What we like:
- Beautiful chair
- Reasonable price tag
- Easy to install
What we don’t like:
- Chair makes some noise when in use
- No shiatsu massagers in feet
- Maximum weight recommendation of 265 pounds may be prohibitive for some
The bottom line:
BestMassage’s Full Body Electric Shiatsu Massage Chair is a gorgeous chair loaded with useful massage features to help you feel relaxed again.
BestMassage Full Body Electric Shiatsu Massage Chair Recliner
Best massage chair with heat: Latitude Run Electric Faux Leather Reclining Heated Full Body Massage Chair
Rich faux leather combined with heating functions and zero gravity technology make this chair the ultimate in heated relaxation. With full-body airbag massage and a built-in heater, it’s hands down one of the best full body massage chairs available. Bluetooth music connection allows you the ability to create your own soundtrack, helping you more quickly reach tranquility. The extendable footrest allows a better fit for taller users and makes this a great option for those looking to unwind.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 57 inches X 30 inches X 46 inches
- Massage areas: Upper, middle, and lower
- Heat: Heat available
- Recline: Zero gravity
- Programs: 6 auto modes
- Warranty: 5-year warranty
- Price: $719.99
What we like:
- Chair has a stylish look
- Bluetooth music connection
- Foot roller massage
What we don’t like:
- No voice control options
- Controller is not wireless
- Neck massager not ideal for petite users
The bottom line:
For a well balanced massage chair that hits nearly all the marks, Latitude Run’s Electric Faux Reclining Massage Chair is a serious contender. With a reasonable price and regal look, it’s one of the finest on the market.
Faux Leather Heated Massage Chair
Best massage chair for watching TV: Best Choice Products Faux Leather Electric Massage Recliner
Many traditional massage chairs are large or bulky, and don’t blend into a typical living room’s design, but this recliner goes with any decor, making it a great option. This chair also has multiple modes and a range of vibration levels, as well as heat, so it’s not only easy on the eyes and light on the wallet, it’s also the perfect way to treat yourself at the end of the long day. Plus, it has pockets for your remote!
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 46 inches x 29 inches x 41 inches
- Massage areas: Upper and lower back, lumbar, thighs, and calves
- Heat: Heated back rest
- Recline: Full body
- Programs: 5 pre-programmed massages, 9 intensity levels
- Warranty: 30-day warranty
- Price: $229.99
What we like:
- Padded ottoman provides extra comfort
- Double-padded backrest
- Built-in side storage
What we don’t like:
- Recline has more limitations than other chairs
- Chair does make some noise
- Lacks some of the deep massage intensity offered by other models
The bottom line:
If you’re looking for an elegant massage chair that could fit easily into any room, this Best Choice Faux Leather Recliner is an amazing choice. The reasonable price adds to the already soothing experience.
Electric Massage Recliner Chair, Faux Leather w/ Stool Ottoman, 5 Heat & Massage Modes, Remote Control, Side Pockets - Black
How we selected the best massage chairs
To select the massage chairs on this list, we started by consulting experts for their insight and recommendations. We then researched the top massage chairs on the market, reading reviews and comparing the list of features against the advice of our experts, and used this information to compile our guide to the best massage chairs for ultimate relaxation.
If you found this guide useful, you may also be interested in our guides to the best recliners for back pain, the best recliners for neck pain, the overall best recliners, our picks for the best modular sofas, and the best places to buy furniture.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a massage chair?
The biggest advantage of a massage chair is the convenience factor: After the initial upfront investment, a massage chair allows for unlimited free massages in the comfort of your own home.
On the downside, a massage chair lacks the knowledge and insight of a trained professional. As Fantry explains, “Sometimes when you press down on a place that’s sore, while it might feel good, pressing too hard can actually cause you harm, because it can inflame or irritate something that’s already an issue. So you want to be careful not to overdo it, and if you’re in consistent pain, it might be time to seek out a licensed massage therapist.”
What is a zero-gravity massage chair?
When it comes to massage chairs, “zero gravity” refers to the chair’s recline position: A zero-gravity chair elevates the feet and reclines the back to take pressure off the spine. It is designed to mimic the weightless feeling of floating in zero-gravity conditions in space. Says Fantry, “It can be helpful for anybody who gets fatigued in their legs, and for people experiencing disc herniation, because it takes some pressure off of their spinal column.” However, people with a history of blood clots or are on blood thinners should check with their doctor before using a zero-gravity massage chair.
What is the difference between 3D and 4D massage chairs?
In a 3D massage chair, the capabilities of the massage rollers are expanded to include an in-and-out motion as well as the traditional up-and-down and side-to-side motions, thereby giving you a three dimensional massage. In a 4D massage chair, those capabilities are expanded one step further: Here, the user controls the movements, enabling a self-directed massage on your exact pain points.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is the best brand of massage chair?
Some great massage chair brands to check out include Osaki, iRest, and Kyoto. You can also take a look at Amazon for massage chairs on both the high and low end of the price scale.
Does a massage chair really work?
A massage chair can be a great way to relax and alleviate some pain. If you’re not sure whether a massage chair will work for you, try before you buy.
How much should I pay for a good massage chair?
Budget massage chairs can start as low as $250, but for most models, expect to pay at least $800 for a chair with high-quality, modern features, and a top-of-the-line model might fall between $2,000 and as much as $10,000.
How many times a week can you use a massage chair?
According to Fantry, “For a professional massage, it’s great to go as often as once a week if you have the means and the time. For a massage chair, if it makes you feel good, you could use it every day, but try not to use it for more than 20 to 30 minutes at a time.”
How long do massage chairs last?
A high end massage chair should last at least 10 years, and up to 20 years, on average. Be aware that one of the pitfalls of buying a cheaper model is that it may not have the same longevity as a more expensive model would.
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