There’s no argument here that we would all love a good massage from zero gravity massage chairs after a long day, especially if that day involves stress – both mental and physical. Some people may choose to unwind by staying in and resting in the comfort of their own home instead of paying a visit to their massage therapist, but wouldn’t it be wonderful if you could do both at the same time?
In this day and age, zero gravity massage chairs are gaining popularity for that exact reason – ultimate convenience. Massage chairs come with many different features and technologies for you to pick from; sometimes too many to decide which ones you need. This article will help make that decision a lot easier for you.
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Our Top Picks
Best for the Money: Real Relax Massage Chair Recliner
“This chair was specifically designed for people of sub-health”
Best Under 2000: Zero Gravity Full-Body Kahuna Massage Chair Recliner LM6800
“The Kahuna LM6800 manages to offer top-notch massages that include a yoga-stretching program and an SH-chiro program”
Best for Neck and Shoulders: Massage Chair by KTN, Zero Gravity Massage Chair
“This chair gives one of the best neck and shoulder massages in specific due to the sensor technology being used”
Why would you buy a massage chair?
People that regularly get massages enjoy the benefits of relieved tension, reduced stress, improved posture and joint health, decreased stiffness, and overall physical and mental relaxation. Not to mention the physiological health benefits as well, like improved circulation and lower blood pressure.
However, many of us don’t have the time to make regular trips to the nearest massage parlor whenever we need help relieving body aches or need an hour of relaxation. Here is when a massage chair becomes a very sound investment.
Our Top 9 Recommended Zero Gravity Massage Chairs
Here are the best zero gravity massage chairs for the money today:
1. Osaki OS-4000T Massage Chair
The Osaki OS-4000T was ergonomically designed to fit the curves of the back for a better massaging experience. As an upgrade from the OS-4000 model, it includes many customizable massage features that fit different user needs making it a great choice for most people. Check out our detailed review of the OS-4000 zero-gravity massage chair.
Specifications:
- Massaging technology: Air-cell massage technology
- Manual programs: Six massaging techniques
- Automatic programs: Six pre-loaded massage programs
- User customizability: Adjustable width and depth for massaging rollers
- Tracks: Intelligent S-track massaging rollers
- Speed/ intensity levels: Five intensity levels and three speed levels
- Auto-timer: Up to 30 mins
- Heat therapy: Lower back area
Pros:
- Auto-recline with a push of a button
- Auto-fit body scan for a custom-fit massage
- Automatic extension of the leg compartment to fit the user
- Seat vibrating massager
- Two rows of spinning reflexology massagers in the feet area
Cons:
- Heating is only available in the lower back area
- The chair does not include any fun features that add to the user’s experience
2. Kahuna LM6800 Zero Gravity Full-Body Massage Chair
The Kahuna LM6800 manages to offer top-notch massages that include a yoga-stretching program and an SH-chiro program as well as other customizable programs. Although it comes with exquisite massaging techniques, the LM6800 is more affordable than other high-end chairs that offer the same features.
Specifications:
- Massaging technology: Air-cell massage technology
- Manual programs: Five Massaging techniques
- Automatic programs: Six pre-loaded massage programs
- User customizability: Zone-focus massages
- Tracks: L-track
- Heat therapy: Lower back and leg areas
Pros:
- Four massaging rollers in the backrest
- Auto-fit body scan for a custom-fit massage
- Three stages of zero-gravity
- Space-saving technology
- Dual foot rollers
- Air-cells inflate individually to twist and stretch body
Cons:
- Does not include an automatic timer
- Foot massager can be a little rough for some users
- Does not offer the option of different intensity or speed levels
3. Luraco iRobotics i7 PLUS Massage Chair
Luraco’s irobotics i7 chair is the first listed FDA approved medical chair in the world. It also provides one of a kind massages as the manufacturers have implemented the use of Japanese and Swedish massage techniques in the pre-installed programs. For more amazing products like this, check out our guide to the best massage chairs under 1000.
Specifications:
- Massaging technology: 3D patented robotic arm massage-rollers + air-cell massage technology
- Automatic programs: Nine pre-loaded massage programs
- User customizability: Zone-focus massages
- Tracks: 32” SL-tracks
- Speed/ intensity levels: According to program
- Heat therapy: Full body with five levels of intensity
- Other attachments: Bluetooth speakers + voice response in four different languages
Pros:
- Five personal program memory
- Pause and resume feature
- Heart rate and blood pressure monitoring
- Triple layer acupoint massaging rollers for calves
- Noise reduction technology
Cons:
- Standing at $8,990, it’s not the most affordable chair
4. Massage Chair by KTN, Zero Gravity Massage Chair
This chair gives one of the best neck and shoulder massages in specific due to the sensor technology being used that can accurately locate acupoints in the shoulder and neck areas. This chair also has a fun feature that allows you to sync the massaging rhythm to the music tracks you play through the chair’s speakers.
Specifications:
- Massaging technology: Air-cell technology
- Automatic programs: Six pre-loaded massage programs
- Manual programs: Five Massaging techniques
- Tracks: 49” SL-tracks
- Auto-timer: Up to 30 mins
- Heat therapy: Lower back area
- Other attachments: Bluetooth speakers + LED chromo-therapeutic side panel lights
Pros:
- Two-stage zero-gravity
- Space-saving technology
- Three-layer upper body massage
- Noise reduction technology
- Reflexology foot rollers
- Thai-stretch in ottoman area
- Shiatsu seat massage
Cons:
- It’s shipped in three boxes that may arrive at different times and has to be assembled at home by users
- Non-extendable ottoman may make it inconvenient for taller users
5. Kahuna SM7300 Massage Chair
The best thing about Kahuna’s SM 7300 model is how you feel after using it. The chair comes with acupoint detection in the backrest and acu-bumps on the massaging air-cells that deliver an invigorating acupressure therapy massage for the user.
Specifications:
- Massaging technology: Air-cell massage technology
- Automatic programs: Nine pre-loaded massage programs
- Tracks: SL-tracks
- Speed/ intensity levels: Five intensity levels
- Auto-timer: Up to 30 mins
- Heat therapy: Full body
- Other attachments: LED lights on side panels
Pros:
- Auto-fit body scan for a custom-fit massage
- Three levels of zero-gravity
- Six massaging rollers in the backrest
- Space-saving technology
- Three modes for wrap-around calf and foot massages
- Has a bigger seat and a wider shoulder area than most chairs on the market, making it the best fit for larger people.
Cons:
- Does not include the option to manually adjust the pre-loaded massage programs
6. Real Relax Massage Chair Recliner
This chair was specifically designed for people of sub-health; making it perfect for those who need a massage chair that gently remedies their exhausted muscles. Check out our detailed review of the Real Relax full body zero gravity shiatsu massage chair.
Specifications:
- Massaging technology: Air-cell massage technology + vibrators
- Automatic programs: Four pre-loaded massage programs
- User customizability: Extendable footrests
- Speed/ intensity levels: Four speed and intensity levels
- Auto-timer: Up to 30 mins
- Heat therapy: Lower back area
Pros:
- Eight point-focus areas in the backrest
- Armrest links provide extra comfort in reclined positions
Cons:
- Although it has earned many satisfactory reviews, the manufacturer of the chair does not really provide enough details about all the features this chair includes which means you might need to try it for yourself first.
7. RelaxOn MK Classic Full Body Zero Gravity Shiatsu Massage Chair
In addition to having the most customizable features to fit individual users and the longest L-track on the list; which means it gives the longest massage strokes reaching all the way down to the seat, this chair has a very considerate feature that allows it to remain in sleep-mode after it’s done with the massage in order to not wake a sleeping user by coming back to an upright position. Be sure to also check out our guide to the best massage cushions and pick your favorite.
Specifications:
- Massaging technology: Air-cell massage technology
- Automatic programs: Seven pre-loaded massage programs
- Manual programs: Five Massaging techniques
- User customizability: Adjustable shoulder massage-roller height + extendable footrests
- Tracks: 50” SL-tracks
- Speed/ intensity levels: Three levels of speed and intensity
- Heat therapy: Backrest area
Pros:
- Auto-fit body scan for a custom-fit massage
- Four massaging rollers in the backrest
- Deep tissue massage feature
- Yoga-stretch massage program
- Air-cell massagers for feet and arm areas
- Three stages of zero-gravity
- Air-cells inflate individually to twist and stretch body
Cons:
- Does not come with a timer option which means that program times are pre-set and are not adjustable.
8. RelaxOn MK 2 Plus Full Body Zero Gravity Shiatsu Massage Chair
The best thing about this other RelaxOn model is the fact that it’s affordable yet offers so many features only found in high-end luxurious zero-gravity chairs.
Specifications:
- Massaging technology: Air-cell massage technology
- Automatic programs: Four pre-loaded massage programs
- Manual programs: Five massaging techniques
- Tracks: L-track
- Speed/ intensity levels: Three levels of intensity
- Heat therapy: Lower back area
Pros:
- Auto-fit body scan for a custom-fit massage
- Spinal decompression program
- Three levels of zero-gravity
- Dual reflexology foot rollers
- Air-cells inflate individually to twist and stretch body
- Acupressure points on massage rollers
Cons:
- Does not include an automatic timer
- Has to be assembled at home by users
9. Wovte Electric Massage Recliner
The Wovte chair has earned a place in this list for its amazing performance compared to its price. At only $699, this chair is the best choice for those who are looking for the convenience of at-home massages without breaking the bank.
Specifications:
- Massaging technology: Air-cell massage technology
- Automatic programs: Four pre-loaded massage programs
- Manual programs: Six massaging techniques
- Auto-timer: Up to 30 mins
- Heat therapy: Seat area
Pros:
- Three levels of zero-gravity
- Space-saving technology
- Eight massage focus points in the backrest
- Three-point vibrating massage rollers for feet
Cons:
- Non-extendable ottoman may make it inconvenient for taller users
- Does not offer the option of different intensity or speed levels
What should you consider when deciding which zero-gravity massage chair to buy?
Reason for purchase (therapeutic/leisure)
Before buying a massage chair you should consider the function you’re looking for. Some massage chairs are made specifically for therapy and are a great match for those who want to buy a massage chair for the purpose of healing their worn-out muscles.
Usually, people that go through days that are physically demanding would opt for buying a therapeutic massage chair to improve their muscle and joint health. Others that simply want the comfort of an at-home massage should not bother buying a specifically designed therapeutic chair.
Massage modes (do you need a specific one?)
While most chairs have a multiple massage feature, some chairs have ones different than others. You should consider what you want your chair to be able to do during a massage session in order to be able to make a decision based on which massage techniques you want most and which ones you wouldn’t bother having.
You should also consider how customizable you want these modes to be; ask yourself, are they set modes or can each mode accommodate custom alterations?
Roller size
One of the technical factors one should put in mind when making a buying decision is the size of the massaging rollers and whether or not they can change size, width, and massaging depth. This should be according to your own body and what you prefer during a traditional massage.
Tracks
Massaging tracks are the path that the massaging rollers take during a massage. Tracks come in many lengths, each affecting the massaging experience at a different level.
The longer the tracks, the more able they are to massage the whole length of your spine, starting with your head and neck and all the way down to your glutes. Some longer tracks have the ability to extend the rollers all the way down to the back of your legs; these are called L-tracks. Another track feature would be the S-track, which is a track path that can easily accommodate the natural curves of your spine for a more effective massage.
Intensity/ speed options
The different speed and intensity settings of a chair should be put in mind when looking for a chair that suits you especially if you have a certain liking for more intense or thorough massages. Some people wouldn’t mind a mellow relaxing massage while others don’t really feel the effects of said massage unless it is at a more intense level.
Temperature adjustment
A feature to be considered, especially by those that seek therapeutic aid from their massage chairs is the availability of heat therapy. A lot of chairs on the market now offer heating at the lower back area and some even offer heat all around, giving you a full body heat therapy massage that would enhance your experience as a user.
Your budget
With the many brands and options on the market today, massage chairs are now available at all budgets. Ranging from as little as $500 all the way to 5-digit numbers. And with the versatility of features, it has become easy for companies to implement quality amenities and technologies at every budget range.
Other fun features you may want
With all new zero-gravity chairs having most of the up-to-date features offered on the market, companies have been starting to compete together by adding extra fun-features that may draw the user to them.
One thing companies have been starting to implement into their chairs is Bluetooth access. Other companies take this a little further and add built-in speakers to their chairs and some even have a special program that can perform a massage to the beat of the music.
More features may include the visual aspects of the massage chair. Manufacturers may pay special attention to the aesthetic design of their massage chair creating appealing structures and using alluring materials. Some may even include more convenience options like cup-holders for instance.
What part of your body do you want massaged?
Another major feature you should consider in your purchase is what area of your body you want to massage. Most zero gravity chairs offer full body massages, however, there are other models on the market that offer zone-focused massages.
Zone-focus is one of the highly sought-out features in massage chairs as it allows the user to get a full-body massage while simultaneously having the chair focus specifically on a desired area.
How big is it?
The space you’ll be putting your chair in should also be a deciding factor. Massage chairs are bigger than normal chairs and that’s why most of the time they need extra space especially zero-gravity chairs because of their ability to recline back.
However, a lot of zero-gravity massage chairs now have space-saving technology installed which will decrease your need to make space for the chair to recline back. Instead, the chair slides forward as it reclines back making it suitable to be placed just 3-inches away from the wall. Other non-space-saving zero-gravity recliners generally need about 18-inches between the back of the chair and the wall in order to reach full zero-gravity position.
Warranty
Massage chairs contain complicated systems, both mechanical and technological and a malfunction in any of the chairs aspects may be a big reason for disappointment. Not that these chairs regularly malfunction, but in case they do, it’s better to have a warranty that saves you the trouble of mind and expense of fixing such a complicated system.
Buying a warranty for your chair is your safest bet when it comes to maintenance. Most chairs come with at least 1-year of free limited warranty while other chairs’ warranties come at an extra expense but are in turn, unlimited. You should always weigh-out the benefits of each warranty plan and what it covers as it is better to be safe than sorry.
And without further ado,
What does the perfect massage chair look like?
Ideally, the perfect massage chair combines convenience with function; meaning that the best massage chairs don’t only offer the luxury of an effortless and customizable at-home massage, but also state-of-the-art functional quality.
But what exactly makes a good massage chair?
Quality
There’s no doubt that massage chairs are made to bring relaxation to the user, but that state of relaxation would most definitely be compromised if the chair fails to provide quality service.
The best massage chairs should always include a hefty mechanism that withstands the repetitive use of the customer and does not fail to maintain the efficiency of the massage. Most production companies are now very aware of that fact and continuously work on developing new massaging technologies that include different tracks and rollers to provide the best massaging techniques whilst maintaining their functional life.
To complement a durable massaging mechanism, a good chair should also come in durable casing. The material the chair is made of has to be of well-bearing quality so that it can provide ultimate comfort for the user as well as stay intact throughout the chair’s life.
Versatility
A good massage chair should not only offer quality, but also versatile usage. It should accommodate different needs at different times by different users.
The added value of multiple massaging modes lets you enjoy a customized massage that fits your needs at any given time. In most chairs, you’ll be able to adjust the speed and intensity of your massage, but some chairs go a step further and add pre-set massaging programs that offer you a different massaging experience without having to change anything yourself. And for the ones that prefer to adjust their massages themselves, a lot of chairs also offer various manual adjustments as well as the automatic ones.
User-friendly controls
With that being said, having all the options but no easy way to access them would be a shame, so another thing that makes a massage chair great is how easy it is to control it.
A great addition to an already great chair would be a simple and straight forward control system. A lot of control systems that come with massaging chairs tend to be overly complicated and require lots of effort to understand – which ultimately defies the point of the chair.
Another thing that ties back to versatility is the added feature of saving programs to the chair’s memory, making your previously programmed massages accessible again with the click of a button.
Zero-gravity
And now for the greatest feature that makes or breaks a massage chair (in my opinion, at least); zero-gravity.
This innovative feature, developed by NASA and first used by spacemen, has proven to alter massage chairs completely and turn massages into an in-depth relaxation experience.
Because of this, zero-gravity massage chairs have taken the market by storm.
But, what is zero-gravity and what does it add to a massage chair?
Zero-gravity is a feature found in most massage chairs these days. It gets the term zero-gravity because of the angle at which the chair reclines that is likewise assumed by astronauts during liftoff in space shuttles. Scientists found that reclining at that angle helps distribute the weight of the astronaut evenly on their chair and that would reduce stress on their bodies as they make their way into space.
These chairs have the ability to recline back at a 130-degree angle where the body can assume its most relaxed and stress-free state. Along with their increased massaging efficiency, this kind of chair has been gaining popularity because of numerous additional health benefits.
This reclined position reduces back pain due to the weight being alleviated off the spine. And since the pressure being put on the body by its own weight is reduced, people with asthma or sleep apnea will find that they are able to breath better as their bodies are propped up in such a manner that their airways are able to open up more than when in a full lying position.
In addition to its health benefits, what you’ll find as soon as you start using a zero-gravity massage chair, is that during the massage, your back will be in full contact with the backrest of your massage chair. This will allow you to sink deeper into the chair and experience the massage at a more intense level than when you would be in an upright position.
And now that we’ve established what a good chair looks like, the next thing would be to discuss the things you should consider when buying your zero-gravity massage chair.
FAQ
Is buying a massage chair worth it?
Massage chairs can be quite pricey, however, investing in a massage chair will not only grant you the convenience of countless customized at-home massages but will also save your money in the long run.
Should I buy a chair with a longer track?
The longer the track the further it can reach up and down your spine, so it comes back to your preference.
What is Air-cell technology?
It’s a massaging system that uses airbags planted inside the chair to deliver a deeper massage.
How do I know if the chair will fit me?
Most chairs easily accommodate people between 4’7” and 6’5” and up to 300 lbs in weight; however, you should check with the manufacturer for specifics and if possible, try the chair yourself before buying it for the correct decision.
Conclusion
I would personally recommend the Kahuna SM7300 for people like me who need an efficient massage to restore their muscles after working out. I would, however, recommend the iRobotics i7 if it weren’t for the steeper price. This is my personal preference, but if you’re willing to splurge on the ultimate therapeutic zero-gravity massage chair, Luraco has what you need.
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