• Last updatedLast updated: Nov 10, 2022

7 Best Massage Chairs under $1000 – Unforgettable Massage Experience!

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Nothing beats getting home to a cool massage chair after spending the whole day working. The experience you get with it is quite soothing and relaxing. After all, you may not have that much free time or energy to visit a massage parlor. While the benefits of owning a massage chair are countless, most people don’t think they can get the best massage chair under $1000. Cheaper massage chair models can be a great option if you want to enjoy the benefits of the massage chair without forking out too much.

This is why we created a review of the massage chairs that are not only effective but also affordable. For this article, we’ve examined 37 different models and picked the top 7 of them. The Real Relax Favor 03 appeared to be our Editor’s Choice for several reasons. This product features multiple airbags as well as a heat mode to ensure ultimate relaxation. However, it can be that you are looking for something a bit different, so we have 6 more options for you here.

We spent countless hours reviewing these massage chairs, trying to find out each chair’s unique features. We also sought industry professionals who gave us key information that was included in the review. In our article, we explored a number of features, including the number of airbags, user’s weight, warranty information, dimensions, and even auto programs. This information has been broken down in the comparison table, detailed reviews of each product, and a buying guide. The buying guide will help you understand all you need to know before making that vital purchase. With this information, you can rest assured that you will make an informed decision when it comes to that coveted massage chair.

Top 7 Massage Chairs under $1000 Review 2022

1.

Real Relax Favor 03Editor’s Choice

Features
  • Airbags: 50
  • Weight capacity: 440 lbs
  • Dimensions: 29.9″ x 49″ x 53″
  • Massage programs: 4
  • Warranty: 2-year limited

More features: heating option, remote controller, 2 wheels, armrest linkage system, extendable foot

The Real Relax Favor 03 is a great option for those who wish to get a quality massage chair at an affordable price. With over 50 airbags spread across the whole chair, you can never go wrong with the Favor 3. There are 4 airbags to massage your shoulders, 8 airbags surround your arms, and 24 airbags work to remove pain from your legs. It also has round airbags that massage the glutes too.

Its zero-gravity and airbag technology are unmatched among affordable chairs. With the zero-gravity mode, the chair reclines in a way to distribute your weight throughout the chair. This will leave you with the feeling that you are experiencing weightlessness, which essentially promotes blood circulation.

The massage chair also has a strategically placed waist heater that also improves the user’s experience. It also increases your metabolism and makes you feel warm, which is good for your health. Moreover, the Real Relax Favor 03 is made of tough leather that is not only moisture-free but also prevents the accumulation of smells.

Another great feature that personalizes the chair is a smart control panel that allows you to adjust the foot rollers to your height. Furthermore, the airbags and motors do not make noise, unlike other massage chairs. This ensures you can enjoy a comfortable and peaceful experience. Unfortunately, not everyone liked the neck rollers because it was quite hard for them to find the right adjustment.

What do we love it for?

  • Offers massage options for each part of your body
  • Quick to assemble
  • Very durable
  • Zero-gravity technology

What were we disappointed with?

  • Some users found the neck rollers not very comfortable
2.

Ootori TinyCooper Massage ChairBest for Full-Body Massage

Features
  • Airbags: 32
  • Weight capacity: 287 lbs
  • Dimensions:3” x 30.3” x 45.3”
  • Massage programs: not specified
  • Warranty: 3-year limited

More features: 3 stages of zero gravity, 3-level airbag strength and massage speed control, Lower-back and Calve function, vibration

If you’ve ever had a Shiatsu massage that you thoroughly enjoyed, the OOTORI N500PRO may be an excellent pick for you. The chair offers three zero-gravity positions, and you can pick one based on how you’re feeling. That said, the 3rd level is the most reclined. It is also the only one that raises your legs above your heart for optimal relaxation.

Since it is a Shiatsu model, rollers are positioned at optimal positions inside the backrest and in the feet area. Additionally, the model features 32 airbags built into the chair. The concentration of these airbags is mainly in the shoulder, arms, seat, legs, and seat.

Also, the combination of rollers and airbags in this chair is best suited to give you a full-body massage that is bound to make you relax after a long day of slaving at your job. For the lower back and calves, vibration is also added to the mix.

The lower back area is also an area of concern for many. While the rollers do cater to this area, it might not be enough. However, the deficit is covered by the two heating pads added, making the massage chair even more effective.

Finally, you can adjust the massage speed and strength to cater to how tired you are on the days that you use the chair.

What stands out?

  • Heat therapy
  • Adjustable massage speed and strength
  • Zero gravity and adjustable recliner

What cons did we manage to find?

  • Not the best option for people over six feet tall
  • Footrest is not adjustable to cater to different heights
3.

SMAGREHO 2020 Massage Chair Best Zero-Gravity Massage Chair under $1000

Features
  • Airbags: not specified
  • Weight capacity: 264 lbs
  • Dimensions: 30” x 57” x 46”
  • Massage programs: 6
  • Warranty: 3-year

More features: Bluetooth player, zero gravity, full body massage, armrest linkage system design, extended footrest

Next, we have the SMAGREHO 2020 Massage Chair, a relatively light massage chair compared to the others on the list. As such, it will be easier to move it to the patio, bedroom, and more depending on where you would like to relax.

This SMAGREHO’s massage features are also fairly impressive. For example, it is a zero-gravity model that reclines and lifts your legs above your heart. As such, there isn’t as much pressure on your blood-pumping organ to ensure blood circulation. This just sets you up to relax so the massage can commence.

Additionally, the airbag system is aligned with some of the stress points in your body that include the shoulders, arms, foot, calves, and foot. As for the rollers, they are focused mainly on the back, shoulders, and feet. When combined, these features effectively relieve stress in all the pressure points in your body. As a side note, the speed on both the rollers and the airbags is adjustable to fit the needs of the day.

Also, it seems to cater to people of varying heights thanks to the extendable footrest. Another high-stress point is the lower back. For this area, the massage chair comes with a built-in waist heater that will promote relaxation and blood circulation.

Another thing that might help you relax more as you’re using the massage chair is the built-in Bluetooth speakers. You can listen to affirmations, relaxing music, or whatever you feel helps you relax best. Lastly, the chair is covered with faux leather, and the manufacturer made sure to give it a pleasant khaki-colored outlook.

What stands out?

  • Attractive design
  • Adjustable roller and airbag speed
  • Zero-gravity features
  • Extendable footrest for different heights
  • Heat therapy
  • Bluetooth player

What cons did we manage to find?

  • Needs to be assembled
  • While adjustable, it’s not a perfect fit for short and tall people
4.

Infinity Riage CS Compact Shiatsu Massage Chair Best Shiatsu Massage Chair under $1000

Features
  • Airbags: 50
  • Weight capacity: 440 lbs
  • Dimensions: 38” x 23” x 38”
  • Massage programs: 4
  • Warranty: 5-year limited

More features: 4-node mechanism, L-track, fully reclines, rocking mode, lumbar heat, 3 massage techniques

Most massage chairs need lots of space from the wall so they can extend fully. However, the Infinity Riage CS Compact Shiatsu Massage Chair is different. With 2” of clearance from the wall, you should be good to go. This makes it ideal for placement in small rooms that you would avoid with other massage chair models. It also seems that the chair is easy to move despite being heavy, thanks to the wheels at the bottom.

The chair fully reclines, and once you’re in the correct position, you can engage the shiatsu, tapping, and rolling techniques of the chair. Notably, the Riage comes with an L-track that should ensure the massage area runs from your shoulder to your glutes. Also, four nodes in the chair handle most of the heavy lifting to make sure you’re more relaxed at the end of the massage session.

Heat therapy has also not been left out. That said, you only get it in the lumbar region when you’re using this tool. You also have optional rocking and calf vibration modes that you can use to help you relax better. If you spend the whole day in heels or standing, the calf vibration will be particularly invaluable to you.

The manufacturer also ships this chair with four built-in auto-massage programs. While these will cater to your whole body, additional manual controls can let you focus on the areas you feel need the most attention.

What makes it stand out?

  • Fits in compact spaces
  • Comes with auto-massage programs
  • Includes heat therapy
  • Three varying massage techniques
  • Easy to move

Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?

  • No foot massage
  • No airbags for compression
5.

SMAGREHO MM350 Massage Chair Budget Pick

Features
  • Airbags: not specified
  • Weight capacity: 380 lbs
  • Dimensions: 50″ x 47″ x 26″
  • Massage programs: 6
  • Warranty: 3-year limited

More features: zero-gravity design, 3 levels of airbag, back rollers massage, armrest linkage system design, extendable footrest

Another pick that fits well within this budget range is the SMAGREHO MM350 Massage Chair. It’s ergonomic and even has an armrest linkage system in its design. There’s no reason for your arms to feel uncomfortable while the rest of you is getting a massage, and the MM350 caters to that need.

Notably, this is a zero-gravity model; hence it will always ensure your legs and heart are in the optimal positions before a massage session. Like the SMAGREHO 2020 Massage Chair we mentioned higher up on the list, this chair features optimal airbag placement. The inflating and deflating motion of these airbags should be enough to help you relax in your legs, feet, buttocks, shoulders, and more.

If you feel stiff in your lumbar area, heat therapy will help you smooth that out by encouraging blood circulation and increasing nutrients to the muscles involved. After that, it’s up to the rollers to do their job. Speaking of rollers, eight are distributed on your back from your neck to your waist.

Your feet are also not neglected since there is a system to soothe your soles and heels. A side note is that the footrest is extendable. Consequently, you needn’t worry about your height being a problem when you’re getting a massage.

The six available preset modes make it so that you don’t need to select all your massage settings manually. Finally, a Bluetooth music player is another key selling point for the chair.

What do we love it for?

  • Bluetooth music player
  • Heat therapy
  • Extendable footrest with foot massage
  • Zero-gravity design
  • Easy-to-assemble

What were we disappointed with?

  • The three pieces of the chair arrive at different times
6.

Giantex Massage Gaming Chair Best Massage Gaming Chair

Features
  • Airbags: no
  • Weight capacity: 330 lbs
  • Dimensions:5″ x 28.5″ x 50.5″ – 54”
  • Massage programs: 1
  • Warranty: not specified

More features: soft headrest, USB massage waist cushion, height-adjustable seat, 360-degree rotation, and free sliding, 180-degree extendable back

With the Giantex Massage Gaming Chair, you can combine two of the most relaxing activities after a day at work. You get to relax while playing your favorite games such as Fortnite, Call of Duty, or more. However, since this is not a true massage chair, there are some differences compared to the rest of the list.

For one, the massage function is localized to the lower back area. It makes sense since this is the area that most people strain when sitting in front of a screen. Everything else is made to make sure you have as relaxed a gaming experience as possible. This includes the 360-degree rotation and 180-degree extendable back, and the soft headrest.

Being height adjustable also means it works for people at varying heights. Also, the design is meant to offer optimal support to your neck, waist, and back. Lastly, there is no rule barring you from using this option as an office chair for your home office.

What makes it stand out?

  • More affordable than the other chairs
  • Features optimal spine support
  • Has a reclining feature

Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?

  • Massage functionality is relatively limited
  • Armrests included are hard
7.

OOTORI N500Best Professional Massage Chair Under $1000

Features
  • Airbags: 32
  • Weight capacity: 287 lbs
  • Dimensions: 47.3’’ x 30.3’’ x 45.3’’
  • Massage programs: 4
  • Warranty: 3-year limited

More features: 5 motors, heating option, foot roller system, remote control, zero-gravity option

The OOTORI N500 is part of the OOTORI line of chairs. Although it is not as expensive as its previous A-600 model, the N500 offers almost similar features. However, this is the first chair in the series to deliver tapping, rolling, and even kneading simultaneously. It also includes a smart massage system with 8 rollers that will automatically detect the contours of your back and give you a custom massage experience. Coupled with an in-built Air Massage Technology, you can rest assured that the chair will take away your pain and stress.

This is a fantastic zero-gravity model. The OOTORI N500 uses this technology to position your body to help reduce back pain while making you feel energized during and after the massage. Additionally, this chair also implements a special acupuncture roller system. It helps to relieve stress and muscle tension.

Heat therapy is also included to help expand blood vessels and increase the flow of oxygen round your body. Combined with good massaging, heat can help to relieve sore muscles. Furthermore, the chair has greater coverage compared to cheaper models leading to a better quality massage. All of these features can be controlled by an intuitive remote that gives you 4 auto-programmed options. As for the drawbacks, its armrests don’t move when you change the angle, and its timer functions could be better.

What are its best features?

  • Offers full-body massage
  • Zero-gravity model
  • Heat therapy
  • Body scanning technology

What could be improved?

  • Limited timer settings
  • Armrests do not move with the chair

Things to Consider

With all the options highlighted above, it may be difficult to choose the perfect massage chair under 1000. Remember, you not only need to check the price tag but also find one that meets your requirements. In this buying guide section, we will explore some of the things that you should keep in mind. It also reveals some of the important features to consider before making that final purchase.

Budget massage chair benefits

7 Best Massage Chairs under $1000 – Unforgettable Massage Experience!A common perception is that luxury massage chair models are the only ones that can offer a quality massage experience. However, you can easily find a budget massage chair with all the features that you want. What are some of the benefits of a budget massage chair that you will get after purchase?

1. They can replace furniture

A massage chair is not only useful when it is turned on. In fact, many people use it as a normal seat when watching something on TV or when just relaxing. If you want a reclining seat, then you can get a massage chair with that function, such as the Ootori TinyCooper Massage Chair. In this case, you will get a fancy reclining seat for watching some shows while also allowing you to switch it on when you need some gentle massages.

2. They can be customized

Unlike visiting a masseuse, a budget massage chair allows you to choose specific muscle groups that you want to target. At the same time, you can choose to get a full-body massage if you want. This will give you a fantastic sensation of ultimate relaxation that you hardly can achieve in a massage parlor.

3. They save you money

A massage chair, especially a budget one, will save you a lot of money in the long run. Not only will they save you money, but they will also minimize the trips you regularly take to the spa. Furthermore, you can use the massage chair more often if required.

4. Control over your massage

With a massage chair, you have some precise control over the strength level of your massage. You can choose from having a deep tissue massage to some subtle caressing. This is because budget massage models also allow you to switch between different modes and settings. For example, you can choose chopping, rolling, and tapping.

Unlike a masseuse, a massage chair will never get tired. In fact, massage chairs, such as the Real Relax Favor 03, have a special setting that allows it to run for longer periods of time. Budget massage chairs with body sensing technology assess your body size, and customize the massage according to this.

Types of massage chair to consider

There are various types of massage chairs, with each of them having distinct features. Some top range models that cost nearly $1,000 can include all these different features while other budget models have fewer features.

Full-body massage chairs

7 Best Massage Chairs under $1000 – Unforgettable Massage Experience!These types of massage chairs offer a full-body massage and are probably the pinnacle of relaxation at home. What’s so special about these bad boys? Well, these chairs cover various zones, including the arms, legs, and different parts of the body. These models also offer heat therapy among other contemporary technologies to improve your massage sessions. And as you can imagine, these little toys will cost you an arm and a leg starting from $600.

Shiatsu massage chairs

Getting its name from the ancient Japanese Shiatsu technique of massage, these types of chairs have a special offering. In Shiatsu massage, the thumbs, elbows, knees, hands, and feet apply pressure to certain pressure points in your body.

Proponents of Shiatsu massage claim that it heals the physical body, the spirit, and even relieves emotional issues.

Although some firms use the Shiatsu term as a marketing play, Shiatsu massage chairs are sometimes fitted with rollers that mimic the ancient Japanese technique. You can thus rely on full-body Shiatsu chairs, including the Infinity Riage CS Compact Shiatsu Massage Chair, to hit all the key pressure points of the body.

Reclining massage chairs

7 Best Massage Chairs under $1000 – Unforgettable Massage Experience!If you want to go all out on a massage chair, then you should at least choose one that reclines. A significant number of massage chairs, like most plush recliners, will include a reclining feature. Having a reclining massage chair is almost similar to lying down on a massage table at your favorite spa but in the comfort of your home.

When looking for a reclining massage chair, the important factor is to check whether it has a manual reclining mechanism or an automatic one.

If you do not want the constant frustration of having to pull a lever each time, you should get an automatic massage recliner.

Zero-gravity massage chair

A quick review of some of the top budget massage chairs will show that many brands are including zero-gravity as a feature. This technology was invented by NASA to help astronauts launch into space. What are some of the benefits of zero-gravity technology?

Zero-gravity massage chairs work to enhance the relaxation of the neck and back, increase the efficiency of your lungs, and reduce the pressure on your spine. It also increases blood circulation in your body since your legs are elevated above the heart. A good number of chairs reviewed, such as the OOTORI N500 and the Real Relax Favor 03, incorporate this technology in their models.

Relaxing tips for massage chair users

Most people assemble their chairs and go crazy, exploring the different settings and modes that their chairs have. However, you may want to go slow and continuously test the features of the chair as you get acquainted with it. Once you get used to it, you can play around with the controls to determine what works best for you. Here are a couple of useful tips to help you out.

  • Think of the massage chair as more of a bed than a chair. This means that you ought to place your head gently on the headrest before starting.
  • Place yourself at a right angle by ensuring that your waist is pressed firmly at the innermost section of the chair. Your upper body should be vertical, while your lower body should be horizontal.
  • Press your back firmly against the seat cushion too.
  • Surrender your body to your massage chair. This means that you should let the chair carry your whole weight without making any effort. Also, ensure you are relaxed before and during your massage session.
  • Avoid eating, drinking, or even talking to people when receiving a massage. Consider this your ‘me-time’ as you are likely to affect your comfort and efficiency of the chair when entertaining others.
  • Tall people should use the leg extension to ensure that their legs are not cramped. The SMAGREHO 2020 Massage Chair  is an example of a fantastic massage chair with an extendable footrest.
  • Moving your arms is also not advisable once the massage chair starts working. This means it is essential to ensure that your arms rest in a comfortable position once you set your preferences in the control panel.

Use manual massage programs

7 Best Massage Chairs under $1000 – Unforgettable Massage Experience!It is recommended that you try having a manual massage after exploring some of the preset systems on your chair. This also allows you to customize your settings just the way you want it. A manual program is almost similar to an automatic program, but you will have to choose the function button on your remote. After this, you will be prompted to set the following:

  • Speed
  • Duration
  • Massage points
  • Massage type
  • Intensity

Some advanced chairs allow you to set your music in sync with a smart-phone through pre-installed speakers in the chair. The Giantex Leisure Curved Massage Chair is one of the budget massage chairs with speakers. The SMAGREHO 2020 Massage Chair  also has Bluetooth speakers that may come in handy when you want to relax with some music.

Although it may be a bit difficult to set up manual settings, nothing beats the feeling of a massage chair that is customized to your preferences.

Features to consider while buying the best massage chair under $1000

It is important to consider the features of your massage chair since they will determine your massage experience. Each chair comes with its unique functions, which is why you should explore them all. Here are some tips to help you figure this out.

Size of the chair

The size of your massage chair is important for two reasons. First, it will determine where you can place it, and second, size affects its portability. Many people believe that massage chairs belong in the living room, but this is often inconvenient. A chair that supports the neck, back, and even legs will be big, and it is not likely to fit in your living room.

A good tip is to place the massage chair in your bedroom, office, or even workout room to ensure it does not seem odd or takes much space in the living room.

Massages available

Once you figure out the main features in each chair, the next step is to check the types of massage therapies that your chair offers. Some of the basic therapies that you will likely find in your massage chair include:

  • Shiatsu
  • Swedish massage
  • Kneading
  • Rolling
  • Pressure
  • Rapid percussion

The best budget massage chairs under $1000 will start with Shiatsu therapy before proceeding to increase the pressure applied. On the other hand, rolling, kneading, and rapid percussion use of your chair’s rollers to apply slow and deep pressure to specific muscle groups to relieve you of stress. With pressure therapy, the massage chair uses airbags to emulate muscle compression that you may get from a real massage. This is a great option for those who need some massage therapy for neck, legs, and arms.

Rollers and airbags

Rollers and airbags form an important part of a therapy chair since they move around together and apply pressure to the body. This replicates getting a massage from a professional. It is worth noting that these rollers and airbags come in different shapes and sizes depending on the brand manufacturing them.

Controls

Another important feature to consider is whether your massage chair gives you full access to all your controls. Can you stop the massage session with the touch of a button? Can you reduce the speed of the massage?

Always ensure you have a convenient and user-friendly control panel or remote. You do not want to get stuck in the massage chair when you are feeling uncomfortable.

Massage power

Before making a purchase, it is recommended that you read the reviews of people who have tested how it felt like. You will find that some chairs have rollers that are too strong while others move too fast. If you find that users have experienced some discomfort or pain, then move on to the next one. Remember that functionality beats style when it comes to a budget massage chair.

Reclining and heating options

Pricier massage chairs have automatic reclining controls, and you can use heating mode when needed with just a single push of a button. If this is not in your budget massage chair, ensure that you can adjust its angle manually.

Durability

Before making that purchase, you need to ask yourself two questions. Does the reclining chair have good customer service? Is the chair durable? A massage chair comes with extra features that all need to work for a pleasant experience. Good customer service will help you to resolve any problems that arise promptly.

Weight capacity

The weight capacity is important since you do not want to buy a massage chair that you cannot use. When looking for a chair, get one that can support your weight without causing any troubles. Also, opt for massage chairs that have body sensing technology. This technology helps the chair to adjust according to your body size and give you a custom massage experience.

Warranty

This goes unsaid. You need some assurance that your product will be working for the next few years. Therefore, don’t forget to check if it has a warranty. The OOTORI N500 is a winner here with regards to this feature as it offers a 3-year limited warranty.

FAQ

Many pregnant women dread using a massage chair due to the delicacy of pregnancy. However, these products offer a myriad of benefits to pregnant women, including relieving back pain, reducing stress, solving digestive problems, and even decreasing depression among others. While many physicians recommend that, don’t forget to visit your personal doctor to make sure that you can use a massage chair.

While we recommend that you wear something that makes you comfortable, it is advisable to put on something lighter and thinner. It is a good idea to take off any heavy clothing, such as a jacket, coat, or even sweater. Some choose to remove their shirt at the comfort of their home while others don’t. All in all, wear something comfortable and light that won’t interfere with your massage experience.

The ideal time to use a massage chair ranges between 2 to 15 minutes. A maximum of 15 minutes is long enough to ensure your aching muscles are revitalized. Remember, excessive use may worsen your injuries or even lead to new ones. How often should you use the chair?

The frequency and even duration depend on your body and health. For example, those using their massage chairs for full-body massages and back pain should try to keep it between 3 to 4 times a week. Those using it as stress relief, on the other hand, should use it 1 to 3 times a week.

Our Verdict

A review of the top massage chairs under $1000 led us to pick three favorite products discussed above.

Our number one choice is the Real Relax Favor 03, which amazed us with its impressive features. It has 50 airbags, with each of them working to make your massage comfortable. Other key features are heat mode and zero-gravity design.

Next, we have the magnificent Ootori TinyCooper Massage Chair that has some cool features, including the full-body massage, 3-level airbag strength and massage speed control.

Lastly, there is the SMAGREHO 2020 Massage Chair. It is a zero-gravity model that reclines and lifts your legs above your heart. As such, there isn’t as much pressure on your blood-pumping organ to ensure blood circulation. This just sets you up to relax so the massage can commence.

All in all, it should not be difficult to get the best massage chair under $1000. This review proves that you can enjoy a quality massage session even with a smaller budget.

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