Massage chairs provide benefits such as less discomfort, increased range of motion, and faster recovery. However, if you don’t have the money to spend on a professional massage after each lesson, a massage chair can provide similar results. We consulted four experts who agree top massage chairs offer various techniques and programmable settings.
Using this advice, we tested dozens of the best massage chairs on the market. Six expert-approved chairs were tested for 20 minutes each, trying out various settings. We assess chair comfort, ease of use, and the relief felt after each session. Our top picks received great marks for comfort, pressure, ease of use, efficacy, design, and overall value. Another reason to believe our recommendations? An orthopedic physical therapist and athletic trainer reviewed this article for accuracy and safe massage chair use.
What You Should Know Before You Start
Massage chairs can help relieve tension and stress, but they should not be used if you have a major injury. Before using or purchasing a massage chair, consult with your healthcare physician to avoid any potential discomfort, injuries, or consequences.
Our Best Picks
Best Overall:
Osaki OS-Champ at Amazon $2,999 $1,999
Best Value:
iRest Zero Gravity Massage Chair at Amazon $2,199
Best Reclining:
Real Relax Massage Chair at Amazon $1,000 $849
Best for Intense Pressure:
Human Touch Massage Chair at Amazon$1,999$1,425
Best Portable:
Homedics Shiatsu Elite II Massage Cushion at Amazon $189
Best Budget:
MYNTA 3D Massage Chair at Amazon $1,799
Best Full-Body:
Inner Balance Wellness Jin 2.0 Massage Chair at Amazon $3,499
Best for Taller People:
Human Touch Quies Massage Chair at Amazon $4,999
Best With Heat:
Kyota Kaizen M680 4D Massage Chair at Amazon $3,000
Best for Injury Recovery:
Human Touch Super Novo Zero Gravity Massage Chair at Amazon $9,999
1. Best Overall
Osaki OS-Champ
Pros
The built-in lumbar heating
Excellent value
Adjustable footrest and headrest
Cons
Lower weight capacity
- Massage could be too intense for some
Key Specifications
Massage Track: L-track | Measures: 30.5 x 57.1 x 44.1 inches | Weight Limit: 260 pounds | Zero Gravity: Yes | Heated: Yes | General Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Who Is It For
Because this massage chair is on the larger side, it is best suited to taller folks with dedicated space for one.
Why We Adore It
After testing, Osaki’s OS-Champ was our top massage chair for its relief and affordable price.This L-track massage chair kneads from neck to hamstrings, with 18 airbags massaging arms and legs.
We appreciate how comfy this chair is to sit and recline in even before you turn it on. Using the provided remote, you can easily adjust the settings or select one of five auto-massage modes.The zero-gravity recline greatly intensified the OS-Champ massage from the moment we began using it. After only one brief treatment, we felt immediate, full-body relief.
We really enjoy how the OS-Champ is intended to accommodate a wide range of users. Taller people can select between an extended footrest with acupressure massage rollers and an adjustable headrest. With a phone holder, remote, and built-in lumbar warmer, this chair is a great value.
Possible Flaws
- This chair has a weight capacity of 260 pounds, which is lower than the others on our list.
- The chair gave off a rather strong massage that verged on being too intense when we experimented with the settings.
Pros
Provides five types of massages
The built-in lumbar heating
High weight capability
Cons
Settings are tough to change while in use
Narrow
Key Specifications
Massage Track: L-track | Measures: 61 x 29.5 x 45.1 inches | Weight Limit: 330 pounds | Zero-Gravity: Yes | Heating: Yes | Total Rating: 4.7/5
Who Is It For
Best for those who want light pressure, especially if they want a totally immersive experience.
Why We Adore It
The iRest A306 Massage Chair boasts three zero-gravity settings, more than any other chair on our list. It is also unique in that it provides five different massage types: shiatsu, kneading, knocking, tapping, and kneading and tapping. Each one targets different muscle parts, and we discovered that all of the settings were appropriate—not too mild or too severe. Adjustable speed, 12 modes, and lumbar warming provide targeted relief for your back or calves.
The iRest features Bluetooth speakers and AI voice controls, though setup for voice commands can be challenging. After utilizing the chair, we found that the light pressure was peaceful and relaxing. One of our editors discovered that she had greater circulation in her hands and feet. We also appreciate that it has the greatest weight capacity on our list.
Possible Flaws
- Our opinion is that the remote and control panel are straightforward to use. We dislike adjusting the chair’s settings mid-massage while sitting up and removing arms from the armrests.
- Researchers observed that the arm, leg, and seating sections of the chair are very limited because to the extensive cushioning.
3. Best Reclining
Real Relax Massage Chair
Pros
Simple to use
A sleek design
Excellent value
Cons
Some people may find massage too light
Does not have as many rollers
Key Specifications
Weight capacity: 300 pounds; Size: 52 x 27 x 43 inches; Zero-Gravity: Yes; Heated: yes; Massage track: S-track Total Grade: 4.7 out of 5
Who Is It For
Ideal for those who want low pressure and are searching for an S-track chair.
Why We Adore It
After working out, if all you want to do is unwind, we suggest the Favor-03 ADV Massage Chair from Real Relax. Even when the chair’s zero-gravity settings are in use, we value how supportive and comfy the backrest is at all positions. The chair offers six massage programs with adjustable speed, intensity, and target areas for easy customization.
We love its simplicity with an easy manual, LED body area display, and quick Bluetooth setup under two minutes. The dual-core rollers on this S-track massage chair end at the lower back. Though the arm and leg compression was weaker than desired, it still provided significant relief. Nevertheless, we believe that the chair is a wise purchase given its remarkable features, affordable cost, and stylish appearance.
Possible Flaws
- Real Relax’s Favor-03 ADV has a lower pressure than iRest’s A306, yet it might not be appropriate for all users. For those who desire a more profound and vigorous massage, we suggest trying Osaki’s OS-Champ.
- The coverage of this S-track massage chair is not as extensive as that of our top-rated L-track models. While S-track chairs end at the base of the spine, L-track chairs provide massage to the hamstrings and glutes.
4. Best for Intense Pressure
Human Touch Massage Chair
Pros
A little footprint
Beautiful design
Enhances blood circulation
Cons
There is no lumbar support
The controls are complex
Key Specifications
Massage Track: Not specified | Size: 44 x 28 x 40 inches | Weight Limit: 285 pounds | No zero gravity | Heated: Yes| Our Rating: 4 out of 5
Who Is It For
Ideal for those seeking a compact, strong-pressure massage chair that complements existing furniture.
Why We Adore It
The Human Touch WholeBody 7.1 is our top choice for deep pressure, relieving tired feet, stiff necks, and knots. Even on the lowest settings, each section effectively kneaded out deep aches and pains. The footrest provides a soothing figure-eight calf massage, with a remote offering customization or five auto settings.
Unlike others, this chair features a timeless design resembling a classic reclining armchair. One of our best choices for tiny areas is this one because it also has a smaller footprint. Select leather in shades of black, brown, gray, or white to go with the design of your house.
Possible Flaws
- Like other chairs on our list, we wish this one had better lumbar support. For a full-body experience, the foot and neck massagers are a great addition.
- The tiny remote’s big number of buttons proved to be a touch intimidating. Until you get the feel of the controls, you might need to refer to the chair’s instruction manual.
5. Best Portable
Homedics Shiatsu Elite II Massage Cushion
Pros
Low-cost
Excellent lumbar support
Good for most chairs and body types
Cons
Best utilized in a deep chair
Key Specifications
Size: 30 x 7.8 x 19.6 inches; Weight Limit: Not specified; Heating: Yes; Zero-Gravity: No; Overall Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Who Is It For
Ideal for those who require relief but lack the funds or room to purchase a large massage chair.
Why We Adore It
The Shiatsu Elite II from Homedics is ideal for tight budgets or limited spaces. This portable cushion offers excellent lumbar support and warm massage for rolling, kneading, or targeting tight muscles.We were surprised by its performance, even surpassing some of the massage chairs we evaluated.
We like that this cushion fits most chair kinds and is suitable for most body types. Deep knots and general tension are efficiently targeted by the pressure, which is stronger than we anticipated. The Shiatsu Elite II Back Massager from Homedics enhances comfort for home couches, office chairs, or hotel armchairs.
Possible Flaws
- We advise putting this cushion in deep seats or armchairs because it is somewhat thicker than average.
6. Best Budget
MYNTA 3D Massage Chair
Pros
Enhances relaxation by reducing pressure on the spie
Offers targeted relief for tired legs and feet
Cons
Higher cost compared to basic massage chairs
Key Specifications
Massage Type: 3D full-body massage with SL track | Features: Zero gravity recliner, calf and dual foot rollers, lumbar heating, AI voice control, TFT screen, quick access buttons, USB charger | Massage Track: SL track covers from neck to thighs
Who Is It For
It’s perfect for people with back pain, muscle tension, or those seeking daily relaxation.
Why We Adore It
The MYNTA 3D Massage Chair stands out for its combination of advanced features like the SL track, AI voice control, and lumbar heating. Its zero gravity function enhances relaxation, while dual foot rollers and customizable settings provide a tailored massage experience. The USB charger and easy access buttons make it user-friendly and technologically advanced.
Possible Flaws
- High-end, may not fit all budgets.
- AI voice control may not be as intuitive for all users.
7. Best Full-Body
Inner Balance Wellness Jin 2.0 Massage Chair
Pro
Footrest can be extended
Two built-in far infrared heaters
Cons
Lower height limit
Key Specifications
The massage track is an L-track. Its measurements are 60.3 x 29.5 x 44 inches. It can support up to 300 pounds. It is zero-gravity and heated.
Who Is It For
Ideal for those looking to splurge a bit on a high-tech, small L-track chair.
Why We Adore It
While many top choices are full-body chairs, the Jin 2.0 Deluxe Heated Massage Chair stands out with its extra features. It measures the width and length of your spine and shoulders to provide a personalized massage.
We love its two far-infrared heaters for calves and lumbar, similar to other chairs on our list. Additionally, a footrest that can be extended for an additional 6 inches is included. Better still? Because it only requires two inches of space to pass between itself and the wall, this chair is perfect for corners.
Possible Flaws
- There are chairs on our list with higher weight and height capacities than this one, which is 300 pounds.
8. Best for Taller People
Human Touch Quies Massage Chair
Pro
Footrest can be expanded
Attached USB charging port
Built-in lumbar warmers
Cons
More expensive than other options
- Lower weight limit
Key Specifications
Massage Track: L-track | Measurements: 71 x 29 x 45 inches | Weight Limit: 285 pounds | Zero-Gravity: Yes | Heat up Yes
Who Is It For
Ideal for tall persons looking for a larger chair with plenty of high-tech features.
Why We Adore It
Human Touch’s Quies Massage Chair can easily accommodate adults up to 6 feet, 9 inches tall. We like how it has an expanded footrest and a number of automated and customizable massage settings.
The Quies Chair’s S- and L-track rollers provide gentle pressure from your neck to hamstrings. It also has a zero-gravity mode, two integrated lumbar warmers, a USB charging connector, and Bluetooth speakers. These excellent features add up to an intelligently constructed massage chair that we believe is well worth the increased price.
Possible Flaws
- This is one of the most expensive chairs on our list, but we believe you get what you paid for.
- With a 285-pound capacity, it’s not the lowest, but we wish it were higher for its height-inclusive design.
9. Best With Heat
Kyota Kaizen M680 4D Massage Chair
Pro
Several heating zones
Excellent value
Footrest can be extended
Cons
May be difficult to assemble
Key Specifications
Massage Track: L-track | Size: 53.5 x 55 x 34.5 inches | Weight Limit: 320 pounds | Zero Gravity: Yes | Heating: Yes
Who Is It For
Ideal for those who prefer hot stone massages or infrared saunas and wish to replicate their experience at home.
Why We Adore It
Kyota’s Kaizen M680 4D Massage Chair heats your back, arms, and legs, outperforming other models on our list. We’re impressed by mid-range pricing, as even more costly seats rarely have tri-zone heating.
The Kaizen M680 features a body scan for a personalized massage with 10 automatic modes. You can also change the pace and intensity as needed, or try the zero-gravity option for even more relaxation. It also boasts an extended footrest to accommodate taller users and Bluetooth speakers for playing your favorite music.
Possible Flaws
- Some consumers have reported that this chair can be difficult to assemble—you’ll certainly need some extra hands to help. However, we believe that its other features, like different heating zones, make up for this drawback.
10. Best for Injury Recovery
Human Touch Super Novo Zero Gravity Massage Chair
Key Specifications
Bodywork Path: L-track | Size: 63 x 34 x 46 inches | Load Limit: 285 pounds | 0 Gravity: Yes | Heat Up: Yes
Who Is It For
Ideal for people who can afford to purchase a high-quality, high-end massage chair with distinctive features.
Why We Adore It
A gentle, warm massage can be extremely beneficial while healing from an injury. Human Touch’s Super Novo Massage Chair includes deep tissue, full-body immersion, and other modes designed for relaxation and rehabilitation. With 38 programs and customizable features, it delivers powerful, full-body relief, the most of any chair on our list.
The chair’s long L-track features rollers with adjustable speed and cadence, simulating human hand movements. There’s also a lumbar warming, heated leg and foot massagers, and compression airbags to help relieve tension from the neck down. Furthermore, we appreciate the chair’s Virtual Therapist mode, which generates a personalized massage session based on your specific needs and preferences.
Possible Flaws
- This is the most costly chair on the list. However, we believe it is worth the money given the number of configurable choices.
- For the price, this chair’s weight capacity of 285 pounds could be higher.
Massage Chairs We Tested
We tried six chairs, but only five made it to our final list of recommendations. This one simply didn’t compare to our favorites:
- CONHOMA’s Recliner Chair Massage Rocker is affordable, and the provided remote is simple to operate. However, the fundamental vibration does not provide any type of massage. We also wish it was more spacious and comfy to sit in.
Our Current Situation
After testing six massage chairs and researching many more, Osaki’s OS-Champ is the clear winner. We love its quick, soothing relief and clever features, making it a great value. Additionally, we continue testing each chair and will update this post with any new significant findings.
What to Search For When Buying Massage Chairs
- Price: A massage that checks all of our experts’ criteria would likely cost between $700 and $5,000. Less expensive chairs may lack fancy features, but they can be just as functional as more expensive models. Our top pick, Osaki’s OS-Champ, costs roughly $2,000.
- Massage Tracks: Most massage chairs include rollers to aid knead tense muscles. These rollers are located on either an S-track or an L-track. S-tracks begin at your neck and end in your lower back, forming a S shape. L-tracks start at the neck and extend to the hamstrings, giving a L shape. However, while L-tracks (like iRest’s 2023 Chair) offer more coverage, they can be hard to find at lower prices.
- Massage Settings: The experts we consulted agree that your massage chair should not simply vibrate. Instead, it should employ a variety of massage techniques and have numerous adjustable settings for you to pick from. When comparing chairs, consider these features: How many massage modes do they offer? What massage techniques are employed (kneading, rolling, etc.)? Can you change the pace, intensity, or location of your massage?
- Comfort: McLain recommended that your massage chair be both relaxing and supportive. Make sure it’s large and sturdy enough to support your entire height and weight. Ideally, it should also include a height-adjustable footrest, as the Human Touch Quies Massage Chair has.
- Additional Features: Each massage chair on our list has some additional features that enhance your massage experience. Tom Walters, PT, DPT, CSCS, likes chairs with Bluetooth speakers, voice controls, and targeted heaters for back, legs, and arms. Consider additional features if you can’t choose between chairs, as they may help you find the best fit for your needs.
How We Picked and Reviewed the Best Massage Chairs
To select the best massage chairs, we interviewed four physiotherapy experts: a massage therapist and three physical therapists. So far, we’ve investigated dozens of chairs on the market and selected six types to test in the tophealthies Testing Lab. Our massage chair testers typically experience muscle tightness after sleeping in specific positions and sitting all day at work.
The Main Points To Check In Massage Chairs
- Comfort: We examine how comfy each chair is before turning it on. Additionally, we examine the cushioning and padding of each chair component, from the headrest to the footrest. We also test the lumbar support and any adjustable aspects that the chair may have.
- Pressure: After turning on the chair, we test all of the settings to determine how severe the massage is. We evaluate customization options for each massage setting and the ability to switch between techniques like kneading and tapping.
- Ease of Use: Throughout the testing process, we assess how simple the chair and its controls are to operate. Is the remote intuitive, or do we continually have to consult an instruction booklet to discover the correct settings? Is everything well labeled, and does the user guide read well?
- Effectiveness: After testing the chair, we determine how helpful it was in alleviating tension, discomfort, and soreness. Do we feel more relaxed than before? How are our muscles feeling?
- Design:Since massage chairs are large and long-term, we assess their design and overall aesthetics. Does it occupy a lot of space? Does it appear sleek and attractive, or huge and clunky?
- Overall Value: After testing all of the chairs and rating them in every other category, we look at the price tag.We give a good value score if the chair’s performance justifies its pricing in our tests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth having massage chairs?
Bate believes that even the best massage chairs cannot replace the services of a trained massage therapist. However, they can reduce stress, muscle stiffness, and pain, so investing in one is worthwhile, especially if you face these symptoms often.
Is it appropriate to sit in a massage chair every day?
Probably, according to Bate and Walters, but pay attention to your body. Sitting in a massage chair for too long can worsen pain; therefore, take breaks if you feel discomfort.
How long does a massage chair last?
It depends on the type of chair you buy, how well it’s built, how frequently you use it, and how well you care for it. However, you may expect your massage chair to endure anywhere from five to twenty years.
