There’s nothing quite as soothing as a relaxing massage after a long, tiring day. Massage chairs provide the ultimate pampering experience right in the comfort of your own home. While they can be a considerable investment, the benefits of having a massage chair are undeniable. Not only do they offer stress relief and improved blood circulation, but they can also help alleviate chronic pain, enhance post-workout recovery, and promote better sleep quality.
In this article, we will explore various massage chair options at various price points, discuss their standout features, and provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision. So, sit back, relax, and let us help you find the perfect massage chair to elevate your home relaxation experience.
The best massage chairs in 2023
Here are the ten best massage chairs, with our recommendations at the bottom.
RELAXONCHAIR MK-II Plus
The MK-II PLUS massage chair by RELAXONCHAIR offers an outstanding full-body massage experience at an affordable price. The chair’s Smart Body scanning adjusts to provide a personalised fit, while the three-stage zero gravity function improves blood circulation. The chair caters to your preferences with four automatic massage programs and three manual targeted massages (kneading, tapping, and a combo).
The SL-Track design ensures a comfortable massage, matching the contours of your back. The built-in sensor measures your spine, allowing rollers to glide smoothly for a full body massage. Airbag technology inflates and deflates airbags separately to twist and stretch various body parts, such as shoulders, lower back, hips, and thighs.
The deep tissue massage and full-body stretching functions mimic human-like massage techniques, while additional features like the Beauty Hip Massager, lower back heating, arm massager, and calf & foot massager further enhance the experience.
However, some users may find the massage intensity aggressive, particularly those sensitive to pressure. Those who want this massage chair but are on the sensitive side can consider placing a towel over the rollers to soften the massage. The chair can also be slightly noisy during operation. Despite these minor drawbacks, the MK-II PLUS massage chair is highly effective and popular, making it one of the best options for under $2,000.
Kahuna Massage Chair LM-6800S
The Kahuna LM-6800S massage chair delivers a revitalising full-body massage experience with a plethora of features to ensure a truly personalised session. Boasting 12 auto programs, including four daily modes, four stretching, and four elite programs, this massage chair tailors each massage to your needs. The custom memory saving function allows you to store your favourite massage settings for quick access, while adjustable shoulder airbags cater to different heights for optimal comfort.
Not only does the LM-6800S offer premium Bluetooth speakers for added relaxation, but it also utilises space-saving zero-gravity L-track technology, requiring only 3 inches of clearance during transition. The chair’s automatic body scanning technology ensures a custom fit massage, while the air-cell massage system covers most of the body’s surface area for a quieter, more effective massage. Dual foot rollers, heating therapy on the lower back and legs, and acupressure points on the arm further enhance the massage experience.
However, some users may find the foot rollers too intense. Wearing socks or turning off this feature can alleviate the issue. Additionally, assembly might be challenging due to poorly written instructions. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Kahuna LM-6800S massage chair offers an exceptional massage experience and is well worth the investment.
Comfier Full Body Deluxe Massage Chair
The Comfier Full Body Deluxe Massage Chair offers an unparalleled massage experience with its upgraded intelligent 4D Shiatsu technology. This chair utilises double air suspension 4D Shiatsu Rollers, paired with soft silicone massage heads, to deliver a deep tissue kneading massage from your neck and shoulders down to your entire back, helping to relieve muscle tension and discomfort. This superior design closely mimics the movements of professional masseurs, ensuring comprehensive and comfortable whole-body relaxation.
Featuring an ultra-long SL track, this deluxe massage chair recliner boasts a 55″ massage stroke that caters to your neck, shoulders, back, waist, hips, and thighs. The ergonomically designed S-track wheels fit perfectly to the curvature of your spine, while the L-track extends from your neck down to your thighs, providing essential support. The chair’s intelligent 4D shiatsu rollers integrate an automatic body shape scanning detection system, offering a human-like massage spa experience that balances softness and firmness. Additionally, the chair includes a Thai/Yoga Stretch function, specifically designed to relax sore muscles, relieve stress and fatigue, and improve blood circulation.
However, it’s worth noting that the user manual could be better written, as some customers have found assembly instructions difficult to understand. Despite this minor drawback, the Comfier Full Body Deluxe Massage Chair remains an excellent investment, offering an ultra-long SL track and the sought-after 4D technology at a competitive price range.
MassaMAX MT339 4D smart massage chair
The MassaMAX MT339 4D smart massage chair is an innovative and high-end relaxation product, offering a comprehensive home massage experience. Boasting 15 automatic massage programmes, a flexible 4D massage robot, and an impressive array of cutting-edge design features, this chair provides a truly unique massage experience.
One standout feature is the advanced 4D Bionic Manipulator, which intelligently adjusts the massage intensity according to the hardness of different body parts, ensuring a comfortable and pain-free experience. The SL-Track technology extends the massage distance to an impressive 53.15″, providing a personalised massage from the neck to the leg. The voice control, though somewhat temperamental, adds a level of convenience to the massage experience. Additionally, the automatic body detection function ensures a tailored massage experience for every user.
However, there are some areas where the MassaMAX MT339 falls short. During auto modes, finer adjustments such as roller widths are not available, potentially limiting the customisation of the massage. The arm airbags, though a nice touch, may not provide a significant massage effect. Larger individuals might find the chair a tight fit, and those with sensitive calves should be aware that the calf airbags can be quite tight. Finally, the chair comes with a higher price tag compared to other options on the market.
In conclusion, the MassaMAX MT339 massage chair offers an array of advanced features, ensuring a truly personalised and comfortable massage experience. However, it does have a few limitations and a higher price point. Overall, it is a good quality chair with plenty of great features, but may not suit everyone’s needs and budget.
Human Touch WholeBody 7.1 Massage Chair
The WholeBody 7.1 Massage Chair from Human Touch delivers an invigorating and rejuvenating full-body massage experience right in the comfort of your home. With its sleek and compact design, available in espresso, black, bone, and grey, this chair will seamlessly complement any living space. The ergonomic design ensures optimal comfort, while the innovative 3D FlexGlide technology provides a seamless and therapeutic touch to relieve tension, reduce pain, and alleviate knots across your entire body.
The Warm Air technology gently heats the back and lumbar area, preparing your muscles for a deeply penetrating massage, akin to a warm oil treatment. The chair features a retractable ottoman with a foot and calf massager, utilising CirQlation technology to massage the legs in an upward motion, improving blood flow and promoting overall health. Customise your massage experience with the BodyMap PRO function, and enjoy five auto-massage programs, including Full, Upper, Lower, Relax, and Sleep.
However, it’s worth noting that the chair’s more aggressive massage style and reduced padding may not suit users who prefer a gentler touch. Despite this, the WholeBody 7.1 Massage Chair is a fantastic option for those who appreciate a compact, lightweight, and stylish design paired with an intense massage experience.
Real Relax® Favor-03 ADV
The Real Relax Favor-03 ADV massage chair is an excellent value option that offers a multitude of features, providing a soothing and rejuvenating massage experience. Its dual-core S-track neck and back rollers are more effective at relieving stress and pain than fixed back rollers. At the same time, the one-button zero-gravity feature allows for ultimate relaxation in a fully reclined position. Full body airbag compression targets the shoulders, arms, feet, and hips to alleviate pain and tension throughout the body.
The chair is equipped with an improved remote control, featuring a larger LCD screen and clearer buttons for ease of use. With six auto programs, adjustable neck massage positions, and lower back heating functionality, the Favor-03 ADV caters to a range of preferences and needs. Assembly is quick and straightforward, thanks to the updated inner structure. Built-in Bluetooth audio, LED lights, and foot airbags and rollers further enhance the massage experience.
However, it’s worth noting that the chair does not have a body scanning feature and is designed for users between 5.2 and 6.1 feet tall, with a weight capacity of around 300 pounds. To ensure a proper fit, it is best to try the chair out in a store before purchasing or consider investing in a model with body scanning technology. Nevertheless, at under $1,000, the Real Relax Favor-03 ADV offers great value and comes close to replicating the benefits of more expensive chairs, as long as it fits you well.
BestMassage SL Track Massage Chair
The BestMassage SL Track Massage Chair provides an enjoyable and comfortable massage experience, offering an affordable yet effective option for those seeking a compact, easy-to-set-up chair with a price tag under $500. With three preset auto massage programs and five massage modes, including knocking, kneading, tapping, shiatsu, and air pressure, this chair delivers a versatile and personalised massage experience. The built-in Bluetooth speakers and convenient phone slot further enhance relaxation and convenience.
This chair features an SL Track massage system, with rollers that glide from the upper back down to the seat, ensuring a full-body massage. However, it is worth noting that the airbags for the waist and hips may not provide the desired impact, but they can be turned off if needed. Additionally, the chair does not include calf massage functionality. Nevertheless, it is a fantastic value option, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget seeking a basic massage experience or a comfortable gaming chair.
iRest SL Track Massage Chair Recliner
The iRest A303 SL Track Massage Chair Recliner boasts a variety of standout features, ensuring an immersive and customisable massage experience. The chair’s intelligent mechanical massage hands imitate professional massage techniques, providing kneading, tapping, knocking, shiatsu, and simultaneous kneading & tapping. In addition, the chair offers full body airbag massage, adjustable width, automatic body scan, and lower back heating, promoting relaxation and targeting specific pain points and areas of tension.
This massage chair is equipped with a space capsule zero gravity feature, allowing users to choose from three levels of zero gravity angles for optimal comfort. Furthermore, the chair’s SL Track technology ensures a personalised massage from head to toe, as it maintains the spine’s natural curve and eases muscle tension. The chair also offers a leg multiple massage experience, with airbags on the calf area and a Thai foot massage for ultimate relaxation.
One minor drawback of the iRest A303 is the poorly written instructions. However, the chair is relatively quick to assemble, and once set up, users can benefit from its wireless Bluetooth speaker and quick access buttons for added convenience.
Though the massage intensity may be too strong for sensitive individuals, the iRest A303 Massage Chair Recliner is great for a mid-level price. If the chair is the right fit, users can enjoy a thoroughly relaxing and rejuvenating massage experience.
iBooMas SL Track Massage Chair R8603
The iBooMas SL Track Massage Chair is an impressive, feature-packed option for those seeking a compact, high-quality massage experience. Its standout feature is the ergonomic extra-long SL track, which provides about 50% more coverage than ordinary shiatsu massage chairs, ensuring a thorough and satisfying massage from neck to thighs.
This massage chair comes with a unique AI voice control function, alongside an LCD remote and quick button control, providing ease of use for everyone. The iBooMas massage chair requires no assembly and is ready to use straight out of the box, making it a convenient choice. Its sleek beige-white appearance, grey leather seat cushion and golden decorative details ensure this chair will blend seamlessly into any home.
Although this chair boasts an array of features, including back and foot heating therapy, 12 automatic massage modes, and a yoga stretch function, there are a few drawbacks. The chair is designed for users weighing less than 300 lbs and less than 6.23ft tall, so it may not be suitable for larger individuals. Additionally, the built-in Bluetooth speakers are not the highest quality, and users may prefer to play music from their personal speakers instead.
Overall, the iBooMas SL Track Massage Chair is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact, high-quality massage chair with an attractive design and extensive features. However, larger users and those who prioritise audio quality should consider these factors before purchasing.
Human Touch Novo XT2 Massage Chair
Immerse yourself in the ultimate relaxation experience with the Novo XT2 full body massage chair from Human Touch. Boasting a sleek, innovative design, this luxurious chair offers a comprehensive massage experience tailored to your needs. With only 2 inches of wall clearance required, it’s an ideal space-saving solution for your home or office.
The Novo XT2 is engineered with five intensity settings and dual-lumbar heat, allowing for a customised, therapeutic massage experience that melts away tension and loosens tight muscles. The unique S- and L-Track unibody design ensures a three-dimensional massage along the entire length of the spine, right down to your thighs. Additionally, the zero-gravity positioning feature provides a doctor-recommended neutral-posture position, alleviating back pain and promoting quality rest.
Although the built-in Altec Lansing sound system adds a touch of luxury, the speakers may not be as impressive as expected, considering the chair’s high price point. However, the Novo XT2 more than compensates with its top-notch performance and durability. Compared to other massage chairs on the market, the Novo XT2 does come at a premium, but its superior quality, excellent massage experience, and comprehensive 5-year warranty make it a worthy investment for those seeking a truly exceptional massage chair.
The best massage chair: recommendations
If you’re searching for the best overall massage chair that ticks all the boxes, the Comfier Deluxe Massage Chair is our top recommendation. With an ultra-long SL track, 4D shiatsu rollers, and a reasonable price point, this chair offers exceptional value for money. It provides a luxurious and customisable massage experience, ensuring you get the most out of your investment.
Additional standout features include zero-gravity positioning, which reduces pressure on the spine, and a comprehensive foot and calf massage function. The Comfier massage chair truly delivers on both quality and functionality, making it a fantastic choice for any user.
For those with specific budget requirements, we have also rounded up the top massage chairs across various price points:
- Best under $500: The BestMassage SL Track Massage Chair is an affordable option that doesn’t skimp on quality. Despite its budget-friendly price tag, it features an SL track design, ensuring a comprehensive massage experience.
- Best under $1,000: Opt for the Real Relax Favor-03 ADV if you’re looking for a balance between affordability and advanced features. With its zero-gravity positioning and multiple massage options, this chair offers an impressive massage experience at a mid-range price.
- Best under $1,500: The iRest massage chair is a solid choice for those looking to invest in a high-quality chair without breaking the bank. It boasts a range of advanced features, such as full-body airbag massage and zero-gravity positioning, making it a worthwhile purchase.
- Best under $2,000: The iBoomas massage chair offers a premium experience at a competitive price. With an SL track, 3D massage rollers, and a range of customisable massage options, this chair is perfect for those seeking luxury without the hefty price tag.
- Best under $3,000: The Kahuna massage chair is an excellent option for those willing to invest in a high-end chair with superior performance. It boasts an array of advanced features, such as multiple massage techniques and zero-gravity positioning, providing a truly indulgent massage experience.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions potential buyers or first-time users of massage chairs may have.
How do massage chairs work?
Massage chairs utilise various mechanisms, such as rollers, airbags, and vibration systems, to simulate the techniques and motions used by professional massage therapists. They often feature multiple massage options and intensity levels to cater to individual preferences and needs.
Are massage chairs safe to use?
Yes, massage chairs are generally safe to use. However, following the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations is important to ensure proper usage. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns, consult your healthcare professional before using a massage chair.
What are important things to consider when buying a massage chair?
When buying a massage chair, consider the following factors: budget, space constraints, desired massage features (e.g., zero gravity, heat therapy, foot and calf massage), the intensity and customisability of the massage (2D, 3D, or 4D), and the track system (S-track, L-track, or SL track). Additionally, consider factors such as warranty, the availability of customer support, and the ease of maintenance. Balancing these factors will help you find a massage chair that best meets your needs and preferences.
What is zero gravity?
Zero gravity is a position in which the massage chair reclines the user to an angle where the body’s weight is evenly distributed, taking pressure off the spine and joints. This position simulates the posture astronauts adopt during space travel and is known for providing a feeling of weightlessness, reducing stress, and enhancing overall relaxation.
What is an S-track?
An S-track massage chair features a roller mechanism that follows the natural S-shaped curve of the spine, providing a more ergonomic massage experience from the neck down to the lower back.
What is an L-track?
The L-track extends the roller mechanism beyond the lower back to reach the glutes and thighs, offering a more comprehensive massage experience.
What is an SL track (dual massage track)?
An SL track combines the S-track and L-track benefits, offering a continuous massage experience from the neck to the thighs.
What is a 2D massage?
A 2D massage chair uses rollers that move in two dimensions: up and down, and side to side. While it provides a more basic massage experience compared to 3D and 4D massage chairs, 2D massage chairs are often more affordable and still offer a relaxing massage.
What is a 3D massage?
A 3D massage chair has rollers that can move in three dimensions: up and down, side to side, and in and out. This design allows the rollers to adapt better to the contours of the body, providing a more precise and deep massage.
What is a 4D massage?
A 4D massage chair adds an extra dimension to the 3D massage by allowing the rollers to vary their speed and pressure throughout the massage. This results in a more realistic and human-like massage experience, as it mimics the natural rhythm and varying intensity of a professional masseuse’s hands.
How often can I use a massage chair?
The frequency of use depends on individual preferences and needs. Some users may benefit from daily massage sessions, while others might find a few sessions per week sufficient. Listening to your body and not overdoing it is essential, as excessive use may cause soreness or discomfort.
How much electricity do massage chairs consume?
The energy consumption of a massage chair depends on its power rating and usage frequency. Generally, massage chairs are not significant energy consumers, and their electricity usage is comparable to other household appliances. To save energy, consider unplugging the chair when not in use or using a power-saving mode if available.
How much space do I need for a massage chair?
Massage chairs come in various sizes and designs, so the space required will depend on the specific model. Ensure you have enough room to accommodate the chair, considering both its dimensions and the space needed to recline and use its features comfortably. Some massage chairs have space-saving designs, requiring minimal clearance from walls, making them suitable for smaller spaces.
Summary
Investing in a massage chair can greatly enhance your overall well-being and help you unwind after a long day or recover from a strenuous workout. With a wide range of options available, from budget-friendly to high-end models, there’s a massage chair to suit everyone’s needs and preferences. By considering factors such as budget, space, desired massage features, intensity and customisability, and track systems, you can find the perfect massage chair for your home.
Don’t forget to explore frequently asked questions and understand the various features available to make an informed decision. Remember, a massage chair is not just a luxury item; it’s an investment in your health and wellness that can provide numerous benefits in the long run.
