Black Friday is the best time of the year to buy a massage chair, but finding the right one is difficult.  Our site was built by a group of massage chair professionals who have been involved in the massage chair industry for several years. We take the guesswork out of finding an amazing chair. There are thousands of massage chairs to choose from, all with different features, sizes, buying processes, and price-points. And then there's all of the abbreviations and words: shiatsu, 4D, 3D, airbags, S-Track — it can be all too confusing! We understand the frustration in finding a chair that is the best fit for your needs, so we have compiled a list of five different brands to choose from when it comes to picking a massage chair.

This is our definitive massage chair buying guide for 2024.  Christmas sales are now live!

Criteria For The Best Massage Chairs

✓ Massage Chair Techniques & Features:

We examine the massage techniques available, such as kneading, rolling, tapping, shiatsu, or combination techniques. In many cases, these techniques are not found in all massage chairs so it is important to read the fine print to make sure you know what you are ordering. Each of these techniques is important in building a massage chair, because they help provide the deepest levels of relief and effectiveness. Features like zero-gravity and heating are must-haves in any massage chair, and should be standard in any option you decide to settle in on.

✓ Massage Chair Customization Options:

A massage chair would be largely useless if it did not offer options to customize the settings to the users preferences, height, and weight. Things to consider when looking at customization options is levels of intensity, variation between modes, and timer settings. You'd be surprised to find that some massage chairs are only manufactured for a select group of people, and do not fit everyone. It is important to check whether or not the massage chair can accommodate different heights with extendable footrests.

✓ Comfort:

Some massage chairs are made of leather, some of rubber, and some even have cheap plastic. The comfort of the massage chair largely depends on the budget and design reputation of the brand selling the chair. Especially if you're buying online, you want a chair that has been tried and tested by happy customers.

✓ Durability & Quality:

This is one of the most important pieces of criteria to consider when buying a massage chair. At Massage Chair Reports, we only have listed chairs that we believe completely satisfy our customers needs for a quality chair, including level of electrical components, wiring, and the level of material sourcing. Some chairs are haphazardly manufactured in masses by factories, while others are built with intention and are designed to last. 

✓ Customer Service 

How good is the brand's emphasis on customer support and satisfaction? Do they have a lot of customers? Do the customers rave about their chairs? It is important to us that customers have the ability to contact the brand via phone and get an answer within 1 business day. This is a must.

✓ Price 

Finally, it is important to take into consideration the perspective of price. What you find in a chair that costs $12,000 will wildly differ from a chair that costs $800. Our goal is to give you the best value for what you are paying for — you shouldn't overpay for features that come in a chair that costs less, and you also shouldn't pay for a cheap chair that will break down by the time you try to use it. This is why we've compiled the best 5 massage chairs of 2024, at unbeatable prices for the value.

With deep experience in the massage chair industry, here are our top picks for the best chairs available. We've narrowed down the list to the top 5 chairs, period. 

#1 Massage Chair For Christmas 2024

Relaxe Zero-Gravity Shiatsu Massage Chair With Heating 

MSRP: $5,330

March 5th Sale Price: $2,999

We've determined that the Relaxe Massage Chair is not just good, it is hands down the best massage chair deal today, especially for the value. It was most recently featured on Sports Illustrated the world's premier sports magazine, as the "Best Overall Massage Chair" of 2024.  It has also earned the ranking of the "Best Massage Chair of 2024" by U.S News & World Report. Most chairs on the market are just made for basic massages, but the Relaxe chair goes beyond performs deep tissue massage therapy across the entire body. It truly does mimic the hands of a master masseuse. This chair went viral on social media in 2023, with hundreds of positive comments and video reviews all having one thing in common to say: the chair feels amazing and works the body in all the right spots.

Designed by a group of engineers, the Relaxe Massage Chair is filled with features such as the 28 airbags & yoga stretch mode that completely stretches the body. These massagers also have a fully customizable massage mode that help remove any knots and tensions you may have, and bluetooth and heating technologies built in. The chair has a premium SL-track design that covers all of your spine.

While many massage chairs are unable to adjust to the height of the person using it, the Relaxe Massage Chair also comes with automatic body scanning and shoulder detection to perfectly align the massage to your frame, body size, and height. The chair also comes with intelligent voice control, wheels for easy transport, and a remote with a premium LCD display.

It is well-designed (no assembly required, works out of the box) and there are rarely any complaints regarding breakdowns. They offer a 365 day trial period & easy financing through Affirm, which makes purchasing a massager completely easy. Relaxe's generous return policy (the 365 day trial) is one the best in the industry. 

Conclusion: Best Massage Chair For 2024

If you are looking for therapeutic relief, this is the option for you. Relaxe sells their massagers directly to consumers, so their price is lower than average. Their massagers have all of the features of a luxury Massage Chair at a much lower price. From zero gravity to heat therapy, to 3D, to deep tissue, there isn't any feature that is missing. Given its popularity, it's the crème de la crème of 2024. 

#2

Costway Enjoyment 13 Massage Chair

MSRP: $6,999

March 5th Sale Price:  $5,999 

The Costway Enjoyment 13 Massage Chair is luxury at its finest. It is a high-end massage chair that features advanced 3D silica gel robot hands, offering a more comfortable and precise massage experience with five optional 3D intensity controls. Gliding on the ergonomic SL track, the massage balls cover more areas than others, from the neck to the thighs, ensuring a thorough massage. The chair's backrest and footrest can recline individually, thanks to dual electric linear actuators, providing customized comfort. One of the standout features of the Costway Enjoyment 13 is its 12 automatic massage programs, including Master, Queen, Sport Care, Soft, Thai Stretch, Sleep, SPA, Office, Deep Shiatsu, Waist and Back, Neck & Shoulder, and Slim. The Thai Stretch mode helps stretch the entire body, promoting flexibility and relaxation. The Sleep mode offers gentle swings to help users relax and fall asleep, while the Soft mode is designed to alleviate back pain, particularly in the elderly.

Another notable feature of the Costway Enjoyment 13 Massage Chair is its zero-gravity recline function, with three zero-gravity positions activated with a single button, benefiting heart and back relaxation. The space-saving design requires only 2 inches from the wall. Additionally, the chair's smart body scanning technology maps key areas of the shoulder, neck, and back to ensure the optimal amount of pressure is applied. The chair boasts a full-body air massage system with 44 airbags, a 131°F waist heater, and a 3-speed foot roller, enhancing blood circulation and providing a soothing massage. With six massage techniques (Kneading, Knocking, Tapping, Clapping, Shiatsu, Tuina), six adjustable speeds, three adjustable widths, and three adjustable air pressure intensities, users can tailor the massage to their needs. The large LCD touch screen and armrest shortcut keys make operation easy, and features like the negative oxygen ion releaser and Bluetooth speakers enhance the overall experience. The footrest extends up to 7 inches to fit individuals from 5.18 to 6.23 feet tall.

Conclusion:

The Costway Enjoyment 13 Massage Chair combines luxury, advanced technology, and comprehensive features to provide an unparalleled massage experience.

#3

IQ Massage Chair

MSRP: $9,999

March 5th Sale Price:  $9,100

The IQ massage chair has a design that is reminicsent of a spaceship, making it attractive for tech-forward users. The IQ chair combines modern functionality with a sleek design, offering a comprehensive solution for full-body relaxation. Its intelligent 3D Shiatsu massage system targets key areas from the neck to the calves, providing relief with kneading, airbag compression, and optional warming functions. The L-shaped structure allows users to easily recline and find their ideal angle for reading, listening to music, or simply unwinding. The chair's futuristic aesthetic ensures it complements any home or office setting.

What sets this chair apart is its emphasis on ease of use and accessibility. The intuitive hand control system makes operation effortless, even for older users. Its compact design belies its robust features, which include zero gravity positioning for stress relief and temperature massage for enhanced comfort. Designed with practicality in mind, this chair embodies the perfect fusion of technology and simplicity.

Conclusion:

One of the better massagers available on the market — easy to use and made by a good manufacturer. The price is steep, but the company offers Affirm financing as well to make the cost more bearable.

#4

Fujimi GT-700

MSRP: $11,999

March 5th Sale Price:  $10,499 

The FUJIMI GT700 Massage Chair embodies the elegance and precision of Japanese design, offering an unparalleled blend of technology and artistry. Its advanced 3D massage system, paired with a seamless SL track, delivers a customized massage from neck to thighs, adapting perfectly to the body’s contours. The intelligent body scanning technology ensures personalized pressure, while the multiple Zero Gravity positions create a weightless sensation that promotes deep relaxation and improved circulation. The chair’s compact, minimalist design makes it a stunning addition to any home, effortlessly balancing style and functionality.Unique to the FUJIMI GT700 is its commitment to a multi-sensory experience.

The warming feature for the lower back and legs soothes tension, while airbags and foot rollers provide full-body relief. Convenience meets luxury with voice control, Bluetooth connectivity, and an intuitive touchscreen. Every detail reflects thoughtful craftsmanship, from the premium materials to the ergonomic design that prioritizes both comfort and aesthetic appeal.

Conclusion:

The FUJIMI GT700 is a masterclass in combining technology and sophistication. While the price is steep, its exceptional features and stunning design make it a worthwhile investment for those who value wellness and refined living. This chair transforms daily relaxation into an art form, bringing professional-level care into the home.

#5

Panasonic MAJ7

MSRP: $10,999

March 4th Sale Price: $9,999

The Panasonic MAJ7 Massage Chair is a top-of-the-line massage chair that offers a range of advanced features to provide a personalized and effective massage experience, and made our top 5 list of 2024. One of the standout features of the Panasonic MAJ7 Massage Chair is its 3D massage technology, which allows the rollers to move in and out, as well as up and down, providing a more precise and customizable massage experience. The chair also has an automatic body scan feature that adjusts the massage to fit the user's body. Another notable feature of the Panasonic MAJ7 Massage Chair is its heated massage rollers, which help to warm and relax muscles, promoting better blood circulation and a more effective massage. The chair also has an advanced airbag massage system that uses airbags to provide a gentle and relaxing massage to the arms, legs, and back.The Panasonic MAJ7 Massage Chair also features an adjustable ottoman that can be extended to fit users of different heights. The chair also has a removable and washable headrest and a space-saving design that allows it to be placed close to the wall.

In addition, the Panasonic MAJ7 Massage Chair offers a range of massage programs, including Swedish, deep tissue, and Shiatsu massage, as well as stretch programs and a lower body massage program that targets the legs and feet.

Conclusion:

The chair's customizable features, including the 3D massage technology and automatic body scan, are particularly appreciated by users who want a personalized massage experience. Additionally, users frequently praise the chair's build quality and durability. We'd recommend this chair to someone looking to invest in a chair that specifically offers a Swedish Massage Option. 

Final Verdict:

Anyone looking to buy an all-purpose Massage Chair with many of the most popular features on the market (read: voice control, zero gravity, and multiple massage modes) would find something to like about the Relaxe Zero Gravity Massage Chair. It targets your back, neck, and waist with dual-core S-track massage rollers, simulating the feeling of a professional, hands-on massage.

Why Invest In A Massage Chair?

✓ Natural Therapy For Muscle Tension

Massage chairs, rooted in massage therapy principles, are known to alleviate pain and ease muscle tension.

1.) A 2019 Mayo Clinic survey revealed that 94% of patients favored massage over strong pain medications for pain relief​​.

2. Similarly, a 2014 study showed that regular 60-minute massages significantly reduced chronic neck pain​. These chairs are crafted to mimic therapeutic massage techniques, targeting sore muscles and stiff joints, aiding those with arthritis and promoting better spinal alignment for scoliosis sufferers. The modern sedentary work lifestyle often leads to poor posture, worsening back pain and sciatica.

3.) Massage chairs support the spine's natural curve, helping to correct posture, particularly beneficial for those spending long hours at a computer. Additionally, 43% of Americans utilized massages for health issues like pain management, indicating the recognized benefits of massage therapy​.

A meta-analysis affirmed massage therapy's effectiveness in pain treatment compared to no treatment and other active treatments​. 

✓ Unexpected Therapeutic Benefits

Massage chairs extend their therapeutic touch beyond just the back, embracing the entire body including arms, legs, feet, hands, and neck, for a wholesome relief.

They are meticulously engineered to replicate various massage techniques that have shown substantial benefits in multiple areas of health.

Here's a breakdown of how they contribute to overall well-being:

1. Better Sleep Quality & More Energy: ​Massage therapy can lead to better sleep quality by reducing body tension and promoting a relaxed state. The therapy can help the body release chemicals like endorphins and the serotonin which contribute to overall well-being.

2. Enhanced Recovery: The kneading and stroking motions of a massage chair can help muscle tissue recover from stress and strenuous activity throughout the day. A massage post-exercise can help the body come back stronger and feel less sore.

3. Mood Elevation and Mental Well Being: Massage chairs offer relief from daily stress and can help you lift your mood and feel calm. The sense of relaxation and well-being you experience during a massage can be attributed to endorphins being released, which are the body's natural feel-good hormones.

Other unexpected benefits might include better posture, joint mobility, and increased body awareness.

✓ Save Time & Lots Of Money:

When you consider the time & money saved, investing in massage chairs is actually a no brainer! Here's why:

1.) Cost-Effectiveness: The average cost of a massage session ranges from $50 to $90 per hour. Assuming a median cost of $70 per session, if one were to receive a massage every week, the annual expense would amount to $3,64​1​. On the other hand, massage chairs offer the benefit of daily massages without incurring per-session charges. Decent massage chairs may seem expensive, but with 0% interest financing, you can get one delivered with less than a $100 up front cost! It makes owning one affordable!

2​. Time-Saving: Owning a massage chair can eliminate the need to schedule appointments, travel to a massage therapist, and wait for your session. This convenience saves a significant amount of time, especially for individuals with busy schedules. The ability to receive a massage at home whenever desired, be it early in the morning or late at night, provides a level of flexibility that traditional massage therapy simply can't match.

3. Daily Access & Customizable Sessions: With a massage chair at home, you can enjoy the benefits of a massage daily or as often as you like. Some recommend to have a 15-minute massage at least 3-5 days per week to reap the benefits, something easily achievable with a home massage chair​. Massage chairs offer a customizable and consistent massage experience each time, without the variability that comes with different massage therapists. This consistency can be beneficial in managing normal daily pain and stress levels.

The Bottom Line:

Massage therapy offers many benefits like easing daily pain, helping relieve stress, and increasing overall well-being. A massage chair is a smart choice for enjoying these benefits regularly. It's not only handy but also saves time and money for people who regularly seek out in-patient massage treatments, making it a great investment for their health and wallets.