Best Handheld Back Massagers

We can now get all the massages we need at our own homes. Handheld back massagers now make it so easy!

Massage is an ancient treatment method. Its historical origins can be traced back to all the Egyptian and Chinese cultures, and I suppose you can see why it stood the test of time, and why it’s still going strong.

In the 1800s, a Swedish fencing instructor injured himself. He noticed that tapping the area around his joint promoted its healing, and after some trial and error, he came up with what we know today as ‘Swedish Massage’.

In the coming sections, I’ll review the best handheld back massagers on the market. This is your ultimate buyer’s guide, so it contains the best usage for each model, and which one ranks at the top spot.

Best Handheld Back Massagers #backmassagers #handheldmassagers

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What Are the Best Handheld Back Massagers?

And while we’ve covered all sorts of massage equipment — including the best zero gravity massage chairs, the best foot massager for diabetics, and the best foot massager for plantar fasciitis — here’s a roundup of the best handheld massagers currently in the market. They have a good track record with the users, they’re all pretty popular, and they have a wide variety of attributes to suit individual needs.

Here are the best handheld back massagers on the market:

BOB AND BRAD Q2

This hand held mini massager is the most amazing and powerful tool one can buy. That is why it is top on our list of the best handheld back massagers.

Made by Bob and Brad, this Q2 Mini is the perfect size. Pocket size making it perfect for travel and at home use. Super powerful and designed to fit nicely into ones hand for ease of use.

Break up those knots and dig deep into those tight muscles and hard to reach areas. Use it on your own or have someone use it on your areas needing massage.

This mini massager comes in a case with all the massage heads and charging cable. That makes it perfect for your car, gym bag, suitcase, put in your RV, or even keep in your desk at work.

Not just for your back either. This Q2 Mini offers an intense vibration to provide pain relief and give your muscles what they need.

For years I’ve struggled with neck pain and how I wish I had owned this handy little Q2 before now. The Q2 quickly works out my sore muscle pain and relieves the tension from sitting at my desk all day. Being one who likes to workout I’ve found my new BFF. Using this on my neck and back is great but it’s also a life saver for my sore glutes, abs, calves and more.

The Q2 is the #1 Best-Selling Mini-sized Massage Gun in Electric Back Massagers and the #1 Best Massage Gun in 2023 Reviewed by TechRadar.

Grab a Q2 for yourself and take 10% OFF with discount code: BobBrad16

THINGS WE LIKE

Pocket Sized
5 Adjustable speeds
USB Charging (never worry about having batteries on hand)
Multiple Massage Heads

THINGS WE DON’T

USB Charging (Unhandy if you are on the go and forget the charger or it dies and you have to wait for it to charge)
The multiple massage heads (2 are good, others hurt)

RENPHO Handheld Deep Tissue Massager

The best feature of the RENPHO cordless massager is its ergonomic design. It focuses fully on comfort, and that’s how it caught our attention.

It’s a lightweight device, the handle is rather long with a firm grip and flowing lines. It can easily reach difficult spots like the upper back, calves, and soles.

The controls are close to your figures, but you wouldn’t accidentally change any settings, as they’re placed in discrete well-spaced positions.

It’s designed to tend to sore muscles from tip to toe, and it achieves that through its wide variety of attachments and powerful motor.

This massager is FDA approved and has an FCC certification. Its price is around the average for handheld massagers, and considering all its features; I’d say it has high value for the dollar. It’s suitable for general destressing or casual muscle recovery after a workout.

Things We Like

Its strong motor can deliver 3600 pulses per minute
It turns off automatically after 20 minutes
It comes with 5 attachments
It has a corrugated grip for firm handling
The long handle helps in reaching difficult spots
It’s a lightweight device with about 1.8 lbs
It has a high-capacity rechargeable battery
The full-charge provides about 140 minutes of operation

Things We Don’t

You can’t use the device while it’s charging
It needs a cool-down period after auto-shutoff
The intensity isn’t fully adjustable

HoMedics Percussion Action Massager

The Homedics massager has two heads and a unique handle. It has a thin design to cut back on the excess weight. The result is a device that’s easy to carry and move around.

The double heads simulate the alternating kneading action of traditional massage. You can change the attachments for a gentler or deeper massage. You can also turn the heat on, or set it for a percussion tapping massage.

The price is well above average, probably as it’s considered a brand in its own right. It’s a basic massager that mimics the real massaging action, in addition to a heating feature.

Buy this model if you like simplicity and down-to-earth devices. It’s easy to use, and it’ll deliver the much-needed relaxation, without a fuss.

Things We Like

The heating option soothes tired muscles
The motor can deliver up to 3100 pulses per minute
It has four different speed levels
It has a 2-year limited warranty
HoMedics is a well-known brand

Things We Don’t

It runs on 120 volts only
It might show some defects after a few months

MIGHTY BLISS Deep Tissue Massager

This is one of the overall good performers. This cordless massager offers a powerful output for relaxation and healing, its ergonomics are remarkable, and it’s aesthetically pleasing.

The attachment heads of this model are different from the mainstream variety we often see with regular massagers. That’s why it’s well-equipped for a wide range of applications.

It’s easy to use and maneuver, so it’ll let you focus fully on your body’s needs. The only thing missing here is the heat feature, otherwise, it’s an impressive all-purpose device.

The controls are simple, the charging is efficient, and it’s good looking too. I appreciate that in any machine.

Things We Like

The ergonomic design and firm grip
It has a long handle for easy reach
It’s a lightweight massager with a thin shaft
It has a high-power motor
It delivers up to 3700 pulses per minute
It comes with 5 massaging heads
It has a short charging time of about an hour
It delivers power for around 120 minutes per charge
The company offers a lifetime replacement or refund policy

Things We Don’t

It doesn’t have a heat option
It’s a bit pricey

VIVREAL Handheld Massager

VIVREAL has been in the market for the past two decades, and they know by now what really works. This device is the result of this expertise and thorough understanding of what makes a good massager.

It has a powerful power-saving motor, and a wide selection of nodes, speeds, and massaging techniques for an optimal relaxing experience.

This massager is designed for comfort too, it’s user-friendly and can be easily directed towards any body part.

The price is a bit above the mid-range, but I’ve seen other devices with similar features and double that, so it’s worth considering. It’s a great choice for casual de-stress as well as healing applications.

Things We Like

The slim ergonomic design
It comes with 6 massaging nodes for various locations
It has 6 adjustable intensities
It offers 6 different massaging modes
The effective 3200 pulses per minute motor output
The device works for about 100 minutes per charge
It shuts-off after 15 minutes to avoid overheating
It comes with a one-year warranty

Things We Don’t

The battery might need replacing after a while
It’s a bit heavy, especially for users with wrist issues

LifePro Sonic Handheld Percussion Massage Gun

This massager has a different and interesting design. Its gun-like structure lets you apply more pressure where you like, and move the massaging heads in a more precise manner.

This massager is well-suited for targeting sore and fatigued spots. It has 5 different heads that simulate professional therapeutic deep tissue massage.

There are also attachments to aid in post-workout muscle recovery, spinal massage, and joint- tapping. It’s also effective in releasing muscle knots.

It’s a powerful, but quiet machine, as the brushless motor gives off 55-75 dB only, so you can use it anywhere without disturbing anyone.

The LifePro massaging gun is a great choice for athletes. You can use it before exercise as a warm-up, and afterward as a muscle relaxant. You can also use various attachments to relieve muscle pain and enhance mobility. Find more great products like this by checking out our guide to the best Theragun alternatives.

Things We Like

You can operate it with one hand
It has 5 intensity levels
It can work for 3-6 hours after a full recharge
It comes with a lifetime warranty
It has a 100% money back policy
LifePro offers a video library and online instruction for users

Things We Don’t

The short handle might limit its reachability
It’s an expensive device

TheraFlow Handheld Deep Tissue Percussion Massager

This is a budget-friendly, versatile, and dependable handheld massager. It focuses on giving a thorough massage with a comfortable device.

It comes with three unique attachments, one of them is designed for scalp massage, which is a unique and much-needed application. The other heads are good for Shiatsu, focused acupoint, and percussion trigger point massage.

If you need a good massage, but need to get in on a tight budget, this device is for you. It’s an efficient massager with powerful output and versatile attachments.

Things We Like

It has a 15-inch long handle to reach difficult spots
It has a long power cord for convenience
Its budget-friendly price
It has a one-year warranty

Things We Don’t

It’s a bit heavy
It doesn’t have overheat protection

Snailax Handheld Massager

This is a versatile cordless massager that packs several perks in a sleek device. Its settings are flexible, so you can personalize it to suit your needs.

The Snailax massager comes with 4 unique attachments. The most notable of them is the u-shaped head, which molds itself around curved parts like the calves and arms.

Another interesting attachment is the acupuncture head, which provides wide waves of relaxation in the body by applying pressure on certain pressure points.

It can also provide deep tissue percussion massage. This method of treatment works well in relieving sore muscles and joint pain.

The heat option is one more feature I appreciate in this massager. I used to be an athlete and my work requires constant movement, so I’m used to various forms of physical fatigue.

Applying moderate amounts of heat to sore spots alleviates the pain quickly. A stiff neck or backache decreases significantly with that simple treatment.

This is a device that suits the needs of the general user. It provides massaging modes from relaxation to muscle treatment. You can buy it as a personal treat, or gift it to someone special. The price is around the mid-range, so it has plenty of value for the money.

Things We Like

The ergonomic lines and placement of controls
It has 3 levels of intensity
It provides 3 different massaging modes
It has infra-red heating for muscle relaxation
It can be used while charging
It comes with 4 massaging heads
It has a U-shaped head for curved muscles
It comes with a charging adapter

Things We Don’t

It needs frequent recharging
It works for about 80 minutes only per charge

Hangsun Handheld MG460 Percussion Massage

This is a sturdy device that you can use for a thorough massage that covers your body from tip to toe. It’s like a broad brush that doesn’t do too well in small details, but covers the canvas swiftly and efficiently.

Double-head massagers are effective stimulants of the circulatory system. This device works best on the large areas of the body like the back, abdomen, and thighs.

It functions effectively on the rest of the body as well, especially with the high-power motor, which intensifies the massaging action.

It comes at a moderate price, and that’s always appealing. This massager suits the user who needs a full body massage at the end of the day, a general warm-up before working out or an energizing routine at the start of the day. For more cool massage products that can can help with muscle pains, check out our guide to the best neck and shoulder massagers on the market.

Things We Like

It’s designed for easy handling and control
It has a reasonable range of massaging speeds
It provides a massaging output of 3500 pulses per minute
It has a long 98-inch power cord
It has a one-year guarantee

Things We Don’t

It doesn’t target specific areas accurately
It offers a single massaging mode only

Breo Mini Massage Gun

Another great choice is the Breo Mini Massage Gun, because it’s mini and easy to handle. Benefits include increased mobility and flexibility via trigger-point massage for joint pain relief and sore muscle relief. Get 20% off and Free Shipping with code BRAFF20

Or try the N5 Mini and get $30 off with code brsheilaN5

THINGS WE LIKE

3 percussion massage heads
3 adjustable speeds
Free Standard Shipping | 30-Day Return | One-Year Warranty

THINGS WE DON’T LIKE

It needs a cord which can be a pain if traveling.

Do You Need a Handheld Massager?

A handheld massager is a practical and affordable device. It remedies several aches. It’s an expression of self-care, and a much-needed method to relieve stress.

Here are some cases where you could benefit from having a massager:

If your job requires physical effort
If you work in a stressful profession
If you’re a parent of young kids
If you’re a serious athlete
If you’re just starting a fitness program
If you suffer from insomnia
If you sit at your desk for long hours
If you have backache
If you stand all-day
If you’re over 25 years of age
If you need extra energy to start the day
If you need to de-stress during the day
If you’re a frequent traveler
If you have to drive for long commutes

What Are the Benefits of Massage?

Massage is often associated with relaxation, but it contributes to good health and wellbeing in other ways too. Here are some of the benefits of a massager.

Increasing overall energy
Decreasing anxiety and enhancing emotional stability
Enhancing problem-solving skills
Getting better sleep
Sharing favors with a partner
Decreasing stiff-neck and shoulder issues
De-stressing during a workday
Enhancing blood circulation
Relieving sore muscles
Decreasing recovery-time after a workout
Increasing natural body immunity
Traveling with your massaging device
Getting a good massage for less cash

Handheld Massager vs. Massaging Chairs

This comparison should give you a better idea of the capabilities and limitations of a handheld massager.

Cost

A good handheld massager costs around $100. Getting a massaging chair of a similar quality costs about $1000. This is easily the difference between a nice treat and an investment.

The huge gap between the prices of both items is understandable, considering the different frames, structures, and tech involved in each.

The outcome is similar though. At the end of the day, you need to relieve your muscles. That’s why comparing the price tags is relevant. Be sure to also check out our guide to the best massage chairs under $1000 and pick your favorite.

Space

A handheld device usually fits in a small drawer. It’s hard to say the same thing about a massaging chair!

Space considerations are critical when the item you want to buy occupies significant room space. If your house or office is already well-furnished, there’s no need to disrupt the setup if you can go with a smaller alternative.

Portability

This is probably the best attribute of any handheld device. You can use it anywhere in your house, you can take it to work, or put it in a bag when you’re traveling.

Massaging chairs generally stay put. Some models have lighter weights or castors, but their size is a constant limitation to their mobility, and you certainly can’t carry them in your bag.

Application

Handheld massagers are adept at targeting specific areas, while massaging chairs are more holistic.

Handheld massagers often come with extra heads to provide your muscles with optimal treatment. This is a unique feature in these models.

You could also use the handheld massager while resting on your bed right before sleeping. This ease of use is a huge plus.

Massaging chairs have a couple of noteworthy features though: whole-body massage and zero gravity positioning.

How to Choose the Right Handheld Massager?

As you read through the lengthy specification sheets, you might want to keep an eye on the following features.

Intensity

This is an indicator of how soft or vigorous the massager can be. It’s expressed in pulses per minute, and it’s directly related to the motor power.

The usual ranges go from 3200 to 3800 pulses per minute. If you’re looking for destressing, the lower end is sufficient.

Athletes could use higher power for muscle recovery, as do Healing and joint treatment. They often require significant intensities as well.

Design

This is a device that you’ll hold when you’re tired. You’d want it to reach your back and lower limbs without much effort. That’s why a lightweight device with a long handle is the optimal design.

The handle ergonomics and placement of controls are also essentials. I’d add aesthetics too, as I’m a firm believer that good machines should necessarily be visually pleasing.

Operating Modes

Humans usually have varied needs throughout the day, and a versatile massager with multi modes is clearly much better than one with a fixed function.

This isn’t a hard and fast rule though. If you’re looking for a specific application, by all means, purchase the device that specializes in it.

Attachments

This has the same reasoning as the previous point. A wide assortment of massaging heads is often a better option.

The same exception applies, if you need to perform a specific massaging action most of the time, then don’t splurge on accessories you wouldn’t be using. A massager on a mission, with a select few heads, is occasionally quite sufficient.

Single or Double Head

Single head massagers are well-suited for targeting specific areas, so if you’d like to loosen up a sore muscle or a stiff joint, that’s the massager you should choose.

Double head massagers simulate the regular human massage and alternate kneading action. It’s good for whole-body massage and general relaxation.

Cordless/Corded

A cordless device is free to move anywhere, and you can use it in places where there’s no electric outlet. It needs recharging though.

Corded models are limited by the length of the power cord and the availability of an outlet. They do provide higher power and you wouldn’t need to worry about recharging.

Heat Therapy

This is one of my favorite features. Massage is nice, but when you add a bit of warming up to a sore spot, the results are remarkable.

It’s not available in all massagers, so you might want to make sure if the model you like has that feature.

Conclusion

The top of the list isn’t a surprise, as you might have read at the beginning of this article. The RENPHO Handheld Deep Tissue Massager is an impressive device. It’s several quality certificates testify to its premium standard.

Its ergonomic design provides comfort and control, and it has multiple attachments to cater to your massaging needs. It’s quite flexible, so you can adjust its settings for optimal usage. On top of all that, it comes at a reasonable price.

If you’re looking for a more specialized massager, check out the LifePro Sonic Handheld Percussion Massage Gun. It’s well-suited for athletes for energizing and mobility before exercising and to help in post-workout muscle recovery.

It’s also a good choice for healing various aches and joint issues. This is achieved through spinal massage, deep tissue massage, percussion massage, and joint tapping. It’s a precise and quiet massager that’s also efficient and effective.

Take care of yourself. A massage session takes less than twenty minutes, doesn’t cost much, but leaves you feeling like a million bucks all day long. Some things are worth doing.