After some particularly long days, we all could use some downtime and relaxation. Whether you're looking to play an instrument, read some books, or maybe just to watch a good film with friends or family, there are a variety of ways to enjoy this short but crucial period of free time.

But for most people, one of the best ways to enjoy some meaningful relaxation is a massage or full-blown massage day. For many, there's not enough time in the week to take off a full day for a massage.

So what's the next best thing? A massage chair placed conveniently in your room of choice! We've assembled a list of the best massage chairs currently available, and after you have a read through, we're sure that your downtime will be that much more tranquil and de-stressing.

For the end all, be all of massage chairs, look no further than the AIR Float 3D+6 Infrared Roller Mechanism Kahuna Superior Massage Chair SM-9000. The long name aside, the SM-9000 is packed with features and provides the very best experience for a massage chair.

The major selling point of the SM-9000 is the 3D massage mode. The 3D massage works on the user’s muscles up and down the spine, the buttocks, and upper thighs using the chair’s SL-Track and the six infrared rollers. This provides an all-encompassing massage that is relaxing and effective.

The SM-9000 also includes a zero-gravity feature. Unlike most chairs, though, the SM-9000 only needs three inches of clearance to perform a zero-g massage. That will save users a lot of space, which is important considering how bulky the chair already is.

The massage chair has eight massage types coupled with three intensity levels. Some of them are brief, while others offer a longer and more thorough massage. All of this can be controlled from the remote provided with the chair. There is also a manual mode, but none of its controls offer the same in-depth experience as the preset modes.

That one complaint aside, this is everything one could want when looking for the best massage chairs. Its unique 3D massage is a major bonus on top of an already in-depth array of massage modes and intensities. They call it the Kahuna Superior for a reason.

Key Features
  • 3D massage
  • LED lights
  • Acupressure points
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 55.5" x 30" x 48.5"
  • Weight: 246.92 lbs.
  • Manufacturer: Kahuna Massage Chair
  • Warranty: 5 years
  • Brand: Kahuna
Pros
  • 8 massage types
  • 3D massage is thorough and relaxing
  • Bluetooth compatibility
Cons
  • Manual mode lacks depth and control

The Human Touch Novo Massage Chair is another no-compromise solution when looking for the best massage chair. It has a ton of features, an elegant and futuristic design, and its technology provides some of the absolute best massages available. Unlike its competitors, the Human Touch Novo also comes in a variety of colors, such as espresso, cream, black, and red.

The Human Touch Novo is bulky, even when compared to the competition. That means it may be hard to fit into your desired room, but the Novo has features to simplify the process. For one, it has a pivoting base, allowing users to twist and adjust it to exactly where it needs to be. It also only needs 9 inches of clearance from the wall. That’s not as good as the SM-9000, but it is still plenty close to free up the rest of your space.

There are 32 automatic modes on the Human Touch Novo with six different massage types. That covers pretty much every muscle area you could imagine, and additional lumbar heat further relieves pain and improves blood flow. It also has zero-gravity as a massage feature.

The most unique thing about the Novo, though, is its cloud massage. This is the Human Touch variant of an air massage, which utilizes the built-in airbags. Unlike its competitors, though, the engineers at Human Touch have refined the technology to provide a light and relaxing experience. It is definitely the stand-out for this already amazing chair.

Key Features
  • Cloud touch massage
  • Colorful option
  • Bluetooth speakers
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 63" x 31" x 43"
  • Weight: 273 lbs.
  • Manufacturer: Human Touch
  • Warranty: 5 years
Pros
  • 32 automatic programs
  • Adjustable design
  • Unique cloud massage
Cons
  • No heat option for calves despite other heat options

Usually buying from a brand that is not well-known is a problem, especially with electronics or electronically-infused products like massage chairs. This chair from BestMassage is an exception to that rule, though. It isn’t as feature-packed as some of its competition, but it offers a solid experience for those looking for something straight-forward and simple to use.

One unique thing about the BestMassage EC06C is its range of massage modes. Many of the chairs on this list have a limited range of modes, but the EC06C has seven massage modes, with nine auto settings and 3 levels for intensity and speed. It also has four levels for its air massage feature. That’s quite a bit more than some of the competitors on this list, even the well-known top brands.

Something the EC06C does lack, though, is the zero-gravity feature. A lot of the massage chairs on this list do have it, so it makes the EC06C feel lacking. It does have an auto-recline option that at least partially makes up for it, though.

The EC06C also has a superior heat system to a lot of the competition. While most get the job done, many other massage chairs doin’t have each options for the legs and feet. The EC06C has those features. It also has a unique option for arm massages that many other chairs don’t include.

For a massage chair that doesn’t have the same name recognition, the EC06C does a good job beating out the name brands in a big way.

Key Features
  • Arm massage
  • Heat therapy
  • Automatic recline
Specifications
  • Weight: 300 lbs.
  • Manufacturer: BestMassage
  • Warranty: 1 year
Pros
  • Heat in legs and feet
  • Unique arm massage feature
  • Made with real leather
Cons
  • Short warranty compared to competition
  • Not designed for people over 6' tall
  • Heavy at 300 lbs.

A lot of the massage chairs on this list have been in the game for a while. Real Relax is a relative newcomer to the scene, releasing their first chair in 2015. However, in that time they have released several models that seriously compete in the massage chair market. They offer the same features as top brands, with only a few minor drawbacks.

The Real Relax Favor 03 offers adjustable zero-gravity functions, so users can choose between three preset adjustments to find exactly what works for them, and with the easy to use remote control, users can find the exact settings they want for their massage.

However, while the remote is handy, there is one little caveat. To adjust the massage, the chair has to be in an upright position. That means if your massage isn’t quite to your liking, you will have to sit back up, adjust the controls, then lower yourself again. It’s an annoying additional step in the process, but it isn’t the end of the world by any means.

The Real Relax does have fixed rollers though. That means there aren’t many adjustments to be made to the massage itself. You may have to reposition yourself so the rollers get right where they need to work out the tension.

The Real Relax does offer a superior air massage to its competition, though. While it’s not quite on par with the cloud massage from Nova, it is notable enough to make it stand out from other massage chairs.

Key Features
  • Zero gravity
  • Hib vibrator massage
  • Armrest linkage system
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 30" x 31" x 68"
  • Weight: 172 lbs.
  • Manufacturer: Real Relax
  • Warranty: 3 years
Pros
  • Adjustable zero-gravity
  • Timer function for people in a hurry
  • Better than average air massage
Cons
  • Only accommodates people up to 6' tall
  • Have to raise to upright position to adjust massage controls
  • Doesn't recline unless massaging, doesn't replace your current recliner

Kahuna Massage Chairs are one of the top players in the game for a reason. They provide some of the absolute best massage chair experiences, and their variety of products and prices make them appealing to most everyone.

The LM6800 is their second entry on this list, and it is also one of the most popular massage chairs on Amazon. There’s a reason for that. Kahuna has packed a lot of features into the LM6800, including a few features that are unique exclusively to Kahuna products.

For instance, the LM6800 has a yoga stretching feature and SH-Chiro. Yoga stretching helps to improve blood circulation by stretching your muscles and relieving pain. The SH-Chiro program specifically targets your spine to release nerve energy, relieving pressure and pain all at once.

The LM6800 also has an L-track roller for automatic massages up and down your back, as well as three settings for its zero-gravity mode. The LM6800 even includes a full body scan which translates to a customized massaging experience.

With all of these benefits to consider, there are some other things to keep in mind. For one, the LM6800 is loud compared to its competition, and its foot rollers are notably aggressive, especially compared to the OOTORI N500. The LM6800 does have more robust settings, though, so users should be able to find an option that suits them.

But for a massage chair packed with luxury features, the LM6800 is hard to beat even with its minor drawbacks.

Key Features
  • L-track roller
  • Zero gravity
  • Yoga stretching
  • SH-Chiro
  • Full body scan
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 46" x 48" x 31"
  • Weight: 200 lbs.
  • Manufacturer: Kahuna Massage Chair
  • Warranty: 3 years
Pros
  • Body scan provides custom experience
  • Unique yoga and SH-Chiro features
  • L-track provides excellent back relief
Cons
  • No Bluetooth support
  • Loud while in use
  • Aggressive foot-rollers

Osaki is another one of the top brands when it comes to massage chairs. As such, their products have some of the best features as well as cutting-edge technology to bolster their appeal to consumers. Their OS-4000TA, the upgrade of the OS-4000T, is no different. It offers the same great benefits as the competition, as well as a few perks that are unique to Osaki products.

Let’s start with what it has in common. The OS-4000TA has similar features to a lot of its competition. It offers a full-body experience, zero-gravity functionality, and heat for the lower back area. Like its premium competition, it also has a full-body scan feature to deliver custom results for its massages.

While it has a similar number of modes, the OS-4000TA actually has five levels for speed and intensity. That may seem like a small difference, but it can mean the world when finding a massage that is just right for your muscles.

The OS-4000TA has also streamlined the air massage technology in its products. It has a reduced number of physicals bags in each chair but, conversely, has an increased total surface area. This places less technical strain on the mechanical units of the chair, which improves the product life. This makes the OS-4000TA one of the most mechanically sound massage chairs on the market.

The OS-4000TA is yet another no-compromise solution for massage chairs, offering luxury features in line with the competition.

Key Features
  • Computer body scan
  • Zero gravity
  • Next-gen air massage technology
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 34" x 31" x 52"
  • Weight: 255 lbs.
  • Manufacturer: Osaki
  • Warranty: 3 years
Pros
  • Improved air massage tech
  • Full body scan
  • 5 levels for speed and intensity
Cons
  • Not meant for people taller than 6'

If you’re looking for a massage chair absolutely packed to the brim with features, the Luraco Technologies iRobotics 7 is the massage chair for you. It provides a lot of competitive, next-gen features designed for medical purposes. It is also one of the only massage chairs designed and manufactured in the United States.

The iRobotics 7 is one of the only chairs on this list that offers full-body heat therapy. Most of the options only provide lumbar heat, but the iRobotics 7 has them in the upper and lower back, as well as in the legs and feet. It also includes massages for your arms as well as your wrists and palms.

The iRobotics 7 also has optional health monitoring service, since it is designed for medical purposes. That’s great if you have other health needs that need to be continually addressed.

It also has similar features to its competition like zero-gravity, air massages, and 3D massage technology.

Another draw of the iRobotics 7 are the guarantees behind it. Its 3-year warranty is hardly competitive, but it is guaranteed to last for 15 years, with a failure rate of less than 1 percent. That’s impressive regardless of what industry you’re in.

The iRobotics 7 also includes a sound system, but it’s nothing to write home about. Luraco’s strength obviously lies in massage technology.

For a feature-rich and premium experience, the Luraco Technologies iRobotics 7 is hands-down one of the hardest to beat.

Key Features
  • Full body heat therapy
  • Health monitoring service
  • Zero gravity
  • 3D massage
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 47" x 38" x 81"
  • Weight: 265 lbs.
  • Manufacturer: Luraco Technologies
  • Warranty: 3 years
Pros
  • 15-year guarantee
  • Full-body heat therapy beats competition
  • Health monitoring for additional flexibility
Cons
  • So-so speakers for music system

The Inada Sogno DreamWave may not seem like much at first. At a glance, it looks like all the other massage chairs in the industry, but beneath that is a powerful and flexible device that can tailor itself to its users needs.

The Inada Sogno DreamWave has one of the most in-depth and customizable manual modes on this list. While much of the competition lets you tinker with the preset modes, the DreamWave lets users add and remove functionality as they see fit, resulting in a chair with over a thousand possible massage settings. That’s perfect for someone who wants to tinker with their massage chair to find a setting that maximizes their pain relief. It also boasts 1200 square inches of coverage for any massages, beating out most of the competition.

The Inada Sogno DreamWave also has similar options to the competition, like a heat therapy system, hip and thigh massage functions, and 8 automatic massage modes. However, it does lack zero-gravity, something many of the chairs on this list do offer.

The DreamWave does also have a few drawbacks. Even though it has tons of options for adjusting the massage, a lot of the features don’t have enough power to deliver a deep tissue massage. That may be a problem for some people who have chronic back pain. It also isn’t designed for people who are very tall.

Even with that in mind, the Inada Sogno DreamWave is perfect for anyone looking for total control over their massage chair experience.

Key Features
  • 8 programmed massage options
  • Back sensor scan
  • Shoulder and arm massage
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 55" x 48" x 37"
  • Weight: 265 lbs.
  • Manufacturer: Inada
  • Warranty: 3 years
Pros
  • Deeply customizable manual options
  • 1200 sq. inches of coverage
  • Quality heat therapy
Cons
  • Not always strong enough for deep tissue therapy
  • Not designed for people over 6' tall
  • No zero-gravity

If you aren’t keen on the futuristic appearance of the SM-9000 or Nova options, Thant the OOTORI Zero Gravity Massage Chair is just right for you. The N500 doesn’t have all the special features or LED lights included in those options, but it does provide a quality experience that is similar to the other options.

Notably, the OOTORI N500 has an 8-point smart massage system. The chair includes 8 rollers along the spine that provide kneading, tapping, and rolling massages simultaneously. Additional rollers in the neck and buttock areas provide plenty of coverage for a thorough full-body massage.

The OOTORI also has three positions for its zero-gravity feature, which is a plus for anyone looking for something comfortable and adjustable. Most massage chairs only have one setting for their zero-gravity option, so this feature makes the OOTORI N500 stand out.

The OOTORI N500 also gets a lot of positive reviews because of its foot rollers. A lot of foot rollers on massage chairs are too aggressive for most people, but the N500 strikes the balance perfectly.

The OOTORI doesn’t have as much customization as some of its competitors, though. There are four preset modes on the N500, and each has manual control over certain aspects, but it is not nearly as flexible as some of the other options on this list. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it may be a pain for some people looking to get a fully customizable experience.

For a simplified yet thorough experience, the OOTORI N500 is an option that's hard to beat.

Key Features
  • 8-point smart massage system
  • Heat therapy
  • Foot rollers
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 48" x 31" x 46"
  • Weight: 156 lbs.
  • Manufacturer: OOTORI
  • Warranty: 3 years
Pros
  • Similar features at lower price
  • Full-body coverage
  • Simple design matches most rooms
Cons
  • Limited modes and settings
  • Heat options aren't very powerful
  • Not designed for people over 6' tall

The RELAXONCHAIR MK-II gets a refresh with this model, further improving what was already a quality experience. Like the OOTORI N500, the MK-II isn’t as feature-rich as some of its competitors, but what it does provide it does quite well.

For one, the RELAXONCHAIR MK-II has a unique L-track system. The L-track roller moves up and down the spine and lute muscles, which helps to relieve back pain all over for an all-encompassing relief. This is especially good for people with chronic back issues like sciatica.

Another unique feature of the MK-II is spinal decompression. In this mode, the chair will lay back to fully extend your spine and legs. This helps stretch them out to relieve chronic pain in those areas. There is also a beauty hip massager, which works your lower back and hips.

Like the OOTORI N500, the RELAXONCHAIR MK-II has a relatively limited feature set. It only has four preset modes combined with three speed and three intensity levels. That’s enough to get the job done for most people, but users who want customization may be left wanting more. All of this can be controlled from the MK-II’s one-hand remote.

Unlike the N500, the MK-II’s foot roller can also be a little aggressive. It should be fine for most people, but those with sensitive feet should be aware.

The MK-II’s zero-gravity feature is solid though and is on par with its competition.

All of this makes the MK-II a competitive option for those willing to compromise a few manual features.

Key Features
  • Zero gravity
  • L-frame roller
  • Lumbar heat
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 65" x 30" x 40"
  • Weight: 183 lbs.
  • Manufacturer: RELAXONCHAIR
  • Warranty: 3 years
Pros
  • L-track system helps with major back pain
  • Built-in body scan system
  • One-hand remote
Cons
  • Lack of features and manual control
  • Loud noise when massages are in session

When trying to determine the best massage chairs, there are several factors that go into it. Obviously, dimension and size are factors, but there's more to a massage chair than how big it is.

First of all, we did not consider seat covers or seat cushions for this list. While there are great options for those out there, we wanted to look at full-blown chairs for this list. (Perhaps we will cover the best massage cushions in the future.)

Full body vs. zero gravity massage chairs

Some common phrases you will see when researching the best massage chairs are "full-body" and "zero gravity." Now, they aren't mutually exclusive features, but they are functionally different.

A full body massage chair is exactly what it sounds like. The chair can hit every major part of the body for deep and pain-relieving massages.

A zero-gravity massage chair can lift your feet slightly above your heart. This improves blood flow from your legs, which can reduce pain and swelling. It also allows the back rollers to more effective massage your spine, giving you the maximum effect of the massage.

Pretty much every massage chair on this list offers a full-body massage, but not all are zero-gravity.

Exploring the different massage styles

When we considered the best massage chairs, we also looked into what type of massage the chair delivered. There are many different forms of massages. Some of the most common are the following:

  • Shiatsu - a unique, Japanese form of massage that involves manipulating and stretching muscle tissue to relieve pressure. Shiatsu helps with increased blood flow, which has myriad health benefits.
  • Tapping - This is one of the most gentle massage techniques, and usually focuses on the neck and calves.
  • Kneading - One of the most common forms of massage therapy, kneading applies pressure to superficial and deep tissue, helping relieve pain and anxiety.
  • Knocking - Knocking is a repeated motion applied to your back to help reduce pain.

Lastly, the best massage chairs have a suite of features and give their users plenty of control over the experience. All of the chairs on this list have at least a fair amount of unique features and flexible control.

Resources— WebMD, Medical News Today, Massage Chair Planet

FAQ

Q: How much do good massage chairs cost?

Cost is always a nebulous question, since there is no simple formula for quantifying value. However, when you compare the cost of getting a massage compared to the cost of the best massage chairs, the value becomes quite clear.

Most massages will run you at least $100. So if you go once a week for a massage, you are spending over $5,000 a year on massages. Premium massage chairs usually run between $5,000 and $10,000.

Even if you go every other week, the price of a massage chair seems worth it, especially when you consider the saved time and effort.

If you plan on getting the best massage chair, aim for the above price range.

Q: What is a 4D massage chair?

To understand this, we have to understand what a 3D massage chair is as well. 3D massage chairs move up and down, side to side, and push deeper into the user’s spine. 4D massage chairs do all of this, but they also give users more control over the speed, the “fourth dimension” of massages.

Getting to the control the speed helps users get a a massage just the way they like it, and the level of control makes for a more premium experience. As such, 4D massage chairs are a little more expensive than regular ones.

Q: Are massage chairs good for the elderly?

The oversimplified answer is “yes.” However, there is a bit more to this question than whether massage chairs are or are not good for elderly people. If an elderly person just has aches and pains and is looking to relax, then massage chairs are great solutions.

However, for chronic problem and other conditions, you should always consult your doctor first. There could be an underlying problem or you may have a condition that massage chairs aren’t ideal for. If you or an elderly loved one have low blood pressure or heart problems, then massage chairs are not recommended.

If you don’t have existing conditions and want to relax, a massage chair will be just right for that.

Q: Can massage chairs be harmful?

Massage chairs are meant to relieve aches and pains, but it is true they can cause some harm if they are not used properly. Once you get a massage chair it is important to thoroughly read the instruction manual. It’s not fun, but it is often the difference between getting hurt and not.

If you do experience pain while using a massage chair, the pain is usually short term and will fade after time away. However, if you have a chronic injury, massage chairs can exacerbate the problem and make it worse. You will want to consult the manual and your doctor before using one.

Q: Are massage chairs durable?

This can vary based on how much you spend and what brand of massage chair you buy. The best massage chairs will last between five and seven years, with some lasting as long as a decade.

To determine if you are purchasing a durable massage chair, here are a few things to look out for. Check the materials used in production, as synthetic materials are usually more durable. You will also want to look into the massage chair motor and its MTF (Mean Time Failure) rate, and so on.

To learn more about how to pick a durable massage chair, you can read our article on it.

Q: How often should you use your massage chair?

As appealing as it is to sit in a massage chair all day, every day, it isn’t a practical or particularly safe idea. There is a diminishing return to frequently using a massage chair, and using them for too long and for too often can create other chronic issues.

In reality, you should use a massage chair for a max of fifteen minutes. This will leave you feeling restored and relaxed without overly aggravating your muscle tissue. It’s also recommended to use your massage chair no more than four times a week, ideally every other day. This gives your muscles time to relax and restore before being massaged again.

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