There’s nothing like heading home after a long day at work or school and slinking into a comforting massage chair. If you’re looking to add one to your living room or den, you’ll want to know the differences among the different kinds, what features are available, and other details that might sway you towards one versus another.
From different brands and types to features that you might not understand, pricing and why some are more expensive than others, this massage chair buying guide will answer all your pressing questions. Once you’re done reading through this, you’ll be armed with the knowledge needed to find the best massage chair for your home. So, let’s get right to it!
Table of contents
- How to choose a massage chair
- Massage chair technology explained
- Understanding massage techniques
- Massage roller tracks: S-track vs. L-track
- How to choose a massage chair based on your height
- How much should you spend on a massage chair?
How to choose a massage chair
Massage chairs might look the same, but the technology, coverage, customization, comfort, and price can vary considerably. To choose the right massage chair for you, it isn’t necessarily about going with the more expensive option. There are different factors to consider.
How frequently the chair will be used
Will you be sitting in the chair for an hour every night after dinner and before bed? For a few hours every Sundays while you watch football? Or is this a chair grandpa will be relaxing in for hours during the day while watching TV?
The type of massage
Just like when you visit a spa, there are different types of massages, like Shiatsu, kneading, and tapping. It’s important to understand what modes the massage chair has and the types of massages it can perform.
Desired massage coverage
Are you looking for a targeted back massage, upper or lower torso, or full body, including legs?
Body height and size
If you’re shorter or taller, larger or thinner than average, you’ll want to factor this into the decision. Some chairs may be wider, longer, shorter, or narrower than others.
Desired level of customization
Are you fine with a simple on/off button and a few levels of intensity or do you want greater customization?
Available space
Measure the space where you plan to put the chair, including having enough room on either side as well as behind and in front if it reclines. You don’t want it to hit the wall at the back. Nor do you want the footrest to get in the way of those walking by in the front.
Budget
Have a budget in mind but leave some wiggle room in case you find that a model with features you need or won’t compromise are on more expensive. Consider payment plan options if necessary.
Features that matter most to you
Write a list of the features that matter most (e.g. back massaging, heat, comfort, reclining, material, and so on) then filter your search to find something that best fits.
Massage chair technology explained
A massage chair might look like any typical living room recliner chair. But there’s a lot of technology hiding beneath the surface. They have built-in motors that provide vibrations through rollers, airbags, and moving tracks underneath the fabric and padding.
There are several key components based on the type of chair. Rollers are designed to move up and down for a traditional massage, working on tracks that guide their motion. They can knead, tap, roll, and/or press. Massage chairs that tackle full body or extremities have airbags that inflate and deflate to help release tension in areas like your arms and legs. Some massage chairs have airbags to target hips and shoulders as well.
There are specific types of massage chairs, which are covered in greater depth throughout this guide. You will find differentiating features on some as well, like handheld remotes or touch buttons on the chair itself, integrated heat therapy, specialized massage techniques, reclining functions, vibrations, and more. You will also find different levels of intensity and speed.
There are different ways massage chair rollers move, which places them in one of three main categories; 2D, 3D, or 4D massage.
What is 2D massage chair?
As the name indicates, with a 2D massage chair, the rollers move up and down, in the direction of your spine, as well as side to side across your back. This is the most basic massage experience that will give you kneading, rolling, tapping, and clapping in a specific area.
Best for: Those who want to relieve mild tension centralized to the back and spine and don’t need advanced roller movements.
What is 3D massage chair?
Along with the same functionality as a 2D massage chair, a 3D massage chair adds the in and out depth movements as well. This goes toward and away from your body, which can add extra pressure to areas where you might feel tightness and need more, like your upper or lower back.
Best for: Those who want greater control over massage intensity and have problem areas that may need more depth of pressure at times.
What is 4D massage chair?
Enhancing the experience further, a 4D massage chair provides a robotic experience with up/down, side to side, and in and out motions that can be controlled for time, speed, and rhythm. It’s the closest thing you can get to human hands. It allows for greater and more personalized control for those who want it and are willing to pay a bit extra for it.
Best for: Those who want a massage at home that’s as close to having a human do it, and desire a more dynamic, customizable, premium massage experience.
Comparing technologies
| Technology | What it means | What you may notice |
| 2D | Basic two-direction roller movement | Consistent, straightforward massage |
| 3D | Adds movement toward and away from the body | Greater control over massage depth |
| 4D | Adds more sophisticated control over movement, speed and rhythm | More dynamic and customizable massage |
Understanding massage techniques
Have you ever gone to a spa and seen a list of all the different massage techniques but have no idea what each style is? You might have that same feeling seeing some of the same names when researching what massage chair to buy. This will explain it all.
Kneading
If you’re a baker, you’re familiar with the motion of kneading dough for bread. This is similar for massage chairs. With kneading massage chairs, rollers move in circular motions that mimic the sensation of hands kneading muscles.
Best for: Customers who prefer a traditional, deeper massage sensation.
Rolling
Like an enhanced version of that stick massager you might bought at the flea market that you can hold with one hand behind your neck and roll up and down your spine, rolling is this up and down continuous motion. It’s much stronger than a manual device, providing consistent relief.
Best for: Customers who prefer a broader, more consistent massage.
Tapping
Anyone who has gone to a nail salon for a pedicure knows the hilarity when the tapping motion comes into effect and your body starts furiously jiggling. It’s akin to a human massage when the person holds their hands upright and parallel to one another and chops rapidly on your back. This rapid, alternating movement simulates the same percussion-like sensation.
Best for: Customers who prefer an energizing massage sensation and don’t mind extra pressure.
Shiatsu
Inspired by the Japanese therapeutic bodywork therapy that literally translates to “finger pressure,” a Shiatsu program uses a combination of pressure and kneading movements, focusing on the energy pathways of your body.
Best for: Stress and pain relief through a simple massage technique that combines multiple methods.
Compression
Ever worn compression socks? The compression massage technique accomplishes much the same thing. Airbags inflate around areas like your arms, shoulders, hips, calves, and feet. This firm and rhythmic pressure helps ease soft tissues and muscles
Best for: If you want a more encompassing full-body experience and have pain in extremities.
Stretching
Less common than others, this type of massage in a chair uses the rollers, airbags, and motorized frame to pull and help elongate your body through reclining motions. It’s designed to simulate a real-life stretching-style massage.
Best for: If you have chronic lower back stiffness, poor posture, or you sit for long periods of time.
What does anti-gravity or zero gravity mean?
You will probably notice the words anti-gravity, zero gravity, or gravity recline within the description of some massage chairs. No, you won’t float like you’re in space when you sit in a chair that has this one of these phrases in its name (they all refer to the same thing). But you might get the comforting, weightless feeling like you are! That’s because the chair reclines and positions your body such that your legs are elevated. The result is more even distribution of body weight. The reason it’s called anti-gravity is because it does indeed mimic the position astronauts are in during space shuttle launches.
What is the advantage of being in this position? You may feel more relaxed since your body is in a more neutral position. The massage may feel more immersive as your body is stretched out and you can feel the movements better. And it elevates your legs and knees above your heart, which can release tension and pressure.
Massage roller tracks: S-track vs. L-track
Massage chairs can either have an S-track or an L-track.
What is an S-track?
An S-track follows the natural curve of your spine. It moves from the top of your neck down to your lower back and tailbone. It typically focuses on your neck, shoulders, and back.
What is an L-track?
By comparison, an L-track roller moves further down to wrap under the seat as well. This can target areas like your glutes, upper hamstrings, and thighs. It’s best if you want lower-body massage coverage as well.
What is an S/L-track?
An S/L track combines both, providing the most full-body massage coverage.
How much massage coverage do you need?
Consider where your typical pain points are and look for a massage chair that covers them. Note that even if a massage chair purports to offer a full-body massage, this still might not necessarily cover specific areas you need with targeted massaging. So, look at the areas that are covered. They can include any combination of neck, shoulders, back, lower back, glutes, hips, arms, legs, hands calves, and feet. You’ll get the most coverage with a massage chair that offers air compression.
Understanding body scanning and customization
Beyond a basic massage, some massage chairs allow you to personalize the massage experience.
Body scanning
The chair detects your body position and dimensions to help position the rollers appropriately. This is especially useful if you are shorter or taller than average, or if the chair will be used by different people in the household.
Adjustable roller position
With adjustable roller positions, you can choose what area the massage is focused on. This is great if you come home after a long day of outdoor activities and want to target your lower back, for example. But maybe another day, it’s really your neck that’s most sore from being on the computer at work.
Adjustable massage intensity
You can choose from a gentler massage for everyday use or a more intense one if you need to target a specific pain point.
Adjustable roller width
Some models offer adjustable roller spacing. This can be useful to suit different body sizes or massage preferences. A thinner person may need them closer together while someone with a wider upper torso might want them further apart.
Preset programs vs. manual controls
Preset programs are great for one-button operation to get going once you slink into the chair. But if you want to target a specific area, adjust the intensity or massage type, or even switch the speed, you can do this with a massage chair that allows for manual control. These settings generally only include massage area, intensity, speed, and technique. But they might also include other available settings, like reclining and heat.
How to choose a massage chair based on your height
Don’t underestimate how height can play into the comfort and effectiveness of a massage chair. They aren’t one-size-fits-all. Scan the specifications to see the recommended user height as well as minimum and maximum height and weight. Check the length of the leg extension, especially if you are shorter or taller than average. Does the footrest adjust? Also check the height of the top of the chair to determine where your shoulders would be positioned once seated comfortably. Finally, check the roller track length, especially if you have a shorter or longer torso.
Why height matters
The position of the rollers and shoulder/foot supports needs to align appropriately with your body to target the right areas. A chair designed for a taller person may not position the rollers correctly for a shorter person, and vice versa. Bottom line: always check the manufacturer’s recommended height and weight range before purchasing and take this into consideration based on who will be using the chair.
What makes a massage chair more premium?
You’ll notice a wide price range for massage chairs, but more expensive doesn’t always mean better. You might find an entry-level massage chair that’s better suited to your needs, or a mid-level one that may have downgrades that don’t matter to you.
Entry-level massage chairs
You’ll usually get a basic roller massage and fewer massage techniques. But if you only plan to use one or two types of massages anyway and these are included, it’s worth considering. They may not have as many presets, which won’t matter if you’re most interested in manual control. You may get limited massage coverage, but if it targets the spots you need, that’s fine. There won’t be as much customization, and you’ll probably only find basic reclining.
Mid-range massage chairs
The additions might include 3D roller technology, longer massage tracks, more massage programs, and body scanning. You might get additions like heat, greater air compression coverage, foot and calf massage, and more adjustability. Consider if you’d benefit from these often enough before deciding to step up.
Premium massage chairs
There are plenty of upgrades with premium massage chairs, but it’s a matter of if you will use them. This may include 4D roller technology with more precise roller control, greater massage coverage and more techniques, advanced body scanning, extensive air compression, advanced foot massage, and multiple zero-gravity positions. You may get stretching programs, greater personalization, and advanced controls or connectivity. They also usually come with more sophisticated construction and materials. This might be too much for some but worth the extra money for others.
How to decide?
The decision comes down to weighing your needs and budget. Don’t just buy a premium massage chair for the sake of getting one. See what it offers above and beyond a mid-level or entry-level one and decide if you need it. A mid-level massage chair is a nice Goldilocks choice. But even then, there’s variations in features so scan the specifications. If price is a concern, you can also look for massage chair sales to find a massage chair with added features you might use for a heavily discounted price.
Other massage chair features to consider
Once you determine the key massage chair features you need, including size, massage options, and roller track design, there are a few other features to consider.
Heat
Don’t underestimate the importance of a heated massage chair. If you frequently use heating pads, getting a massage chair that has this feature built in can be a game-changer. Heat is typically applied to the lower back (lumbar) area. Some advanced models might offer heat to your legs and on the seat as well, similar to heated car seats. You might find massage chairs that provide heat to the shoulder area, too. So, don’t just look for one with heat but pay attention to where the heat is situated.
Foot and calf massage
If you have and use a foot spa often, getting foot massaging built into a massage chair can be useful. Some have foot rollers or massagers that offer kneading or air compression. You may also find foot heating. It’s a nice alternative to soaking your feet or using a foot massager.
Air compression
The inflation and deflation of airbags in a massage chair squeeze and release your aching muscles, help with blood circulation, and relieve tension. They usually target areas like your calves and fee, waist and hips, arms and hands, and sometimes shoulders. Verify the areas where airbags are positioned to ensure it meets your needs by including the right zones. You may already use a massager on these areas, but having the functionality in a massage chair is an added bonus.
Reclining
A massage chair can be a recliner and massager in one, offering the ultimate comfort. But the way they recline can be different. Some offer powered reclining that shifts with a push of a button while others offer manual reclining with a lever or button and manual pushback. Some have multiple reclining positions, and the zero gravity or anti-gravity models mentioned earlier lay completely flat. Conversely, some are power lift models that can raise forward to help you get out of them more easily. These are designed for people with mobility issues who have trouble getting in and out of a chair.
Massage programs
Look at not only if the massage chair offers multiple massage programs but what they are. These can include different massage styles like kneading, tapping, and Shiatsu. Also note the areas each one targets.
Controls and connectivity
Control can be built in via buttons or even a touchscreen, or it may use a separate remote that’s usually recessed into the chair and you can pull out when needed. Advanced, high-tech models may have Bluetooth with a companion smartphone app. And the most advanced may even work with voice controls. Some massage chairs have built-in speakers so you can play soothing music or calming sounds like water, rain, or birds to create the ultimate comfort oasis.
Memory settings
If multiple people in the house will be sitting in the chair and it’s not just “dad’s chair” or “grandpa’s chair,” you will benefit from memory settings. These allow you to use a preset favourite memory option for each person that auto-adjusts to your preferred massage settings.
Will a massage chair fit in your space?
Once you know what features you want, consider if the massage chair will actually fit in your space. Remember, massage chairs, especially ones that recline, are large pieces of furniture.
Once you measure your space, including around the chair, measure the chairs dimensions, including both when collapsed and reclined all the way out, back and front. Look at wall clearance and mark the spot where the chair would have to be positioned such that it doesn’t hit the wall behind it when reclined.
Don’t forget about getting it into the house for set-up, especially if it comes pre-assembled. That means verifying doorway width, hallways, and stairway width, taking the banister into consideration. If you live in an apartment or condo, confirm it will fit in the elevator. Weight is also important. You’ll probably need help to bring it in and set it up. Most will be at least a two-person job.
Space-saving recline
If you’re constricted by space, consider a massage chair that reclines closer to the wall than other models. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of a reclining massage chair if you have a smaller home, room, or apartment.
How much should you spend on a massage chair?
Budget is important consideration. If you’re on a tight budget and can make-do with essential massage functionality, go with a lower-priced massage chair. A mid-range model will generally provide more coverage and customization. But it’s crucial to understand what massage chair features are worth paying more for.
If you plan to rely on the chair daily for pain relief and soothing muscles, a higher-priced model with more advanced roller technology and greater personalization may be worth the investment. Premium materials with the most sophisticated massage technology, extensive coverage, and advanced comfort features mean you’ll have to expect to fork out a little more.
The most important thing is to weigh the features that matter most against price. Don’t pay more for a massage chair with features you might only infrequently use. But don’t skimp on features and regret the decision later.
Which massage chair is right for you?
To help you decide, have a look at this handy chart.
| If you want… | Look for… |
| A basic massage experience | 2D rollers and essential massage programs |
| More control over massage depth | 3D rollers |
| A dynamic, premium massage experience | 4D technology |
| More lower-body coverage | L-track or S/L-track |
| More comprehensive full-body coverage | Arm, hand, calf and foot compression |
| A relaxing reclined experience | Zero Gravity or Anti-Gravity |
| A chair for multiple users | Body scanning and memory settings |
| A chair for a taller user | Appropriate height range and extended track |
| A chair for a smaller space | Space-saving recline |
| More focus on feet and calves | Foot rollers and calf compression |
| Greater personalization | Body scanning, adjustable intensity and manual controls |
| A premium experience | Advanced roller technology, scanning, coverage and customization |
Massage chair buying checklist
Go through this checklist as you search to help narrow down the choices.
Before you buy, check:
☐ Recommended user height and weight
☐ Massage technology: 2D, 3D or 4D
☐ Roller track: S-track, L-track or S/L-track
☐ Massage techniques
☐ Massage coverage
☐ Air compression zones
☐ Foot and calf massage
☐ Heat
☐ Body scanning
☐ Massage programs
☐ Massage intensity and customization
☐ Recline and Zero Gravity
☐ Space requirements
☐ Chair weight
☐ Controls and connectivity
☐ Warranty/support
☐ Budget
Feature comparisons review
How to choose the best massage chair? As a refresher, check this table for the top features, what each one means, and why it should matter to you as you make your way through a buying decision.
| Feature | What it means | Why it matters |
| 2D / 3D / 4D | How the rollers move | Determines how adjustable and dynamic the massage feels |
| S-track / L-track / S/L-track | The path the rollers follow | Determines massage coverage |
| Kneading | Circular roller movement | Mimics a kneading-style massage |
| Rolling | Continuous roller movement | Provides a broader, consistent massage |
| Tapping | Rapid alternating movement | Creates a percussion-like sensation |
| Compression | Inflating airbags | Adds pressure around areas such as arms, legs and feet |
| Body scanning | Detects body position | Helps position rollers appropriately |
| Zero Gravity | Reclined body position | Creates a more relaxed, weight-distributed position |
| Heat | Heated massage areas | Adds warmth to the massage experience |
| Foot rollers | Mechanical rollers in foot wells | Provides targeted foot massage |
| Stretching | Coordinated chair and roller movement | Creates a stretching-style experience |
Find the right massage chair for you
Don’t get caught up in fancy designs and features. Make sure it fits nicely in your space and can accommodate your height and weight. Consider the types of massages you get, targeted areas, and level of customization. Look at how easy it is to control and, if multiple people will be sitting in it, how simple it is to go back to your favourite settings versus someone else’s. Finally, price is important. You don’t want to go over budget, but you also don’t want to get something you won’t be happy with.
Once you have narrowed down what you need, explore the wide selection of massage chairs at Best Buy Canada and use the filters to find the best options.
