A good massage chair that’s not going t let you down right from the start costs about $2,500. That being said, the more you pay, the more you get, in most cases. Massage chairs can cost up to or even more than $10,000, with the cheapest models going for less than $1,000.
But why is there such a big price difference? It not only comes down to features, which are the most obvious reason, but the quality of these features and the durability/reliability of the chair in general also play a big role.
Key Takeaway: The rice of a shiatsu massage chair depends on numerous factors including the number of features and quality of design.
Table of Contents
Features that May Affect the Costs of a Massage Chair
There are two categories to consider here, the features the chair can perform, and the actual features of the chair itself:
Performance
You can easily spot advanced features of any good model that make it more desirable than a cheaper model, like more preset programs, heat therapy, or heating pads for the calves and feet. While these obviously better features are attractive, they aren’t the only reason the chair is more expensive.
For example, cheaper models tend to have stationary (2D) rollers that rotate but do not run up and down the length of a muscle.
Similarly, they have fewer airbags, which provide a more general pressure compared to models with more airbags, which give a more localized or specific pressure massage.
But besides these more obscure features, the quality of each feature tends to be enhanced in more expensive chairs. In essence, a cheap chair may have the exact same number of features as an expensive chair, but they leave you bruised and battered, while a more expensive chair leaves you feeling real relax and revitalized. Click here for a review of the best massage chairs in the world right now
In this respect, quality is as important as quantity.
Manufacturing
The parts, labor, and engineering can have a huge impact on the price of a chair, not to mention the warranty and returns policy.
In general, more expensive chairs tend to last longer, with better customer support and warranty coverage than cheaper models.
Key Takeaway: The features the chair can perform, the quality of these features and the quality of the manufacturing process all influence the price of the chair.
Is Massage Chair Smart Investment?
Yes.
Besides the fact that it’s there when you need it, no appointment or travel is required, a massage chair pays for itself within a few months.
On average, a massage costs $75 per hour. If you use your quality massage chair for 1-2 hours a week, a mid-range chair for $2500 will pay for itself in just over 4-8 months. And that’s assuming you’re the only one using it…
Key Takeaway: Within a year you will be saving time and money by investing in a deep tissue massage chair.
Difference Between An Expensive High-End Massage Chair And Cheaper Chairs
Here there are some key factors to consider when it comes to the differences between expensive and cheap chairs:
Quality
First and foremost, the quality of the massage you’re getting from a more expensive chair is going to be better than a cheaper chair. Rollers are smoother, airbags are pressure tested, and preset programs are better designed in more expensive chairs.
Reliability
Cheaper chairs are less reliable. Whether their electronics fail or their parts break or the actual chair starts falling apart… You’re better off spending a bit more on a reliable chair than “saving a buck or two” and investing in a chair that just doesn’t stand the test of time.
Manufacturing
Chairs that are manufactured in some Asian countries are just not built to the same standard as others.
Generally, Japanese chairs aren’t bad. Parts sourced from Taiwan are okay… But assembly in China is best avoided.
Different countries have different standards. If you’re looking for a chair that’s going to meet our standards, look for a chair that’s made close to you. More expensive models are usually manufactured to a higher standard.
Warranty
This goes hand in hand with manufacturing. The cheaper the chair, the worse the warranty (and customer service).
You may be paying less for the chair, but the price of the chair is a good indicator f aftermarket services.
For example, a $1000 chair, with all the functions of a $3000 chair, looks great, right? But the cheaper chair comes, and the airbag pressure is just way too much, the control is complicated, and of the 3 preset programs, you like one. But it’s okay… It is cheaper, so you accept your fate.
A week later, the roller breaks, you call customer care, but they don’t answer. Five tries later, you decide to send an email. They respond, saying that they are happy to fix the chair, you just have to send it halfway across the globe for $200 each way.
They don’t do in-home repairs. They don’t do replacements. And it’s all on your dime.
That’s the difference between expensive and cheap.
Key Takeaway: Cheaper chairs are not worth the complications that accompany them.
Good Chairs Under $500
Don’t waste your money on chairs under $500. They will cause more damage than good. Not only is the quality of the massage provided by such a cheap chair way below par, which can actually cause bruising and muscle damage, but they also won’t last very long and when they brake (which they will) they turn into a giant, good for nothing, paperweight.
Models Between $1,000 – $1,2500
For this price, you want to go for a low-range, starter model from a reputable company.
Human Touch Wholebody is a good option to consider, but the Kahuna 6800 offers more functions, with minimal complaints.
It has all the functionality of a high-end chair, albeit not to the same degree of expertise, including body scan, zero gravity, and even arm massage. The feet and calf rollers can be a bit too intense for some people, but that’s the price you pay for opting for a cheaper chair, and it can be remedied by adding a protective layer of thick fabric.
The LM 6800 Full Body is one of the cheapest, most reliable chairs on the market and includes an L-track, with five different body massage techniques, six auto programs, and three speed and intensity settings over various individual areas of the body.
Key Takeaway: Unlike other chairs in this price range the Kahuna is going to give you a variety of functions (body-scanning) and it won’t let you down. It may not be the best chair massage recliner in the market, but it’s the best in this price range.
Models Between $2500 – $5000
The Titan Pro Jupiter XL takes the prize in this category. It has is the best set of functions, including 3D L-Track, head massage, and heating for the calves as well as the seat and lower back… But as I said before, while these are good selling points, they don’t close the deal.
What closes the deal n Titan is the warranty. It includes a 1-year parts and labor in-home warranty.
That means, if the shiatsu chair breaks within the first year, someone comes to fix it for you, with no extra expenses.
If you aren’t sold yet, this is a mid-range model, with high-end features.
It has quality massages in most respects (the neck and shoulder massage isn’t the best, but the head massage sure is!).
While there isn’t much in the line of personalized settings, it does provide a gentle twist action that helps to loosen the hips and lower back.
Coupled with the L-Track that’s designed for taller people (up to 6’6”), this chair is by far the best option in this price range.
Key Takeaway: The Titan will not outperform more expensive chairs, but you will not find a chair in this price range that beats the quality of benefits or the warranty on the Titan.
Models Between $5000 – $10000
This is where things get tricky. While most of the “dangers” of cheaper chairs fall away in this price range, there are still some things to take into consideration.
Here you’re looking for award-winning chairs. You’re not looking for an average chair with a big markup because of some fancy gimmick that serves no real purpose. Look out for marketing strategies like “4D Rollers”, they’re the same as 3D Rollers with intensity control.
Also, pay close attention to customer feedback. As I said, if you’re paying this much for a chair, you want a chair that’s amazing – in every aspect. So make sure people don’t just like the chair, they LOVE it…
That being said, massage chairs aren’t perfect, so while good customer service, warranties, and quality features should be a priority, the nitty-gritty details like “it’s too bulky” or “I wish it had this feature on top of the 20 other features I really like” shouldn’t always be a dealbreaker.
Sure, you may want a chair that has EVERYTHING and more, but realistically speaking, this is just not going to happen. So pick the functions that are important to you and then look for a chair that has that functions.
Key Takeaway: While massage chairs are hardly ever perfect in all respects, make sure to choose one that ticks all your boxes, especially since you’re spending so much on a chair – make sure it is a worthy investment.
Our Picks in this Category
Depending on what you want, we recommend investing in either the Luraco I7 Plus or the Human Touch Super Novo.
The i7 has won numerous awards and is used by the army – which is already a good reason to buy it. On top of that, it’s made in the USA and uses, literally, the best engineering and modern technology. It is the quietest chair and can save up to 5 personalized massage programs.
On the other hand, the Super Novo has a better space-saving design and comes with a virtual therapist who can anticipate your preferences. It may not have won as many awards, but it is up there with the i7.
If you like hip airbags, go for the i7, if you like a gentler stretch, go for the Super Novo. It’s difficult to say which chair is inherently better; it depends on personal preference. Both offer a good set of features and a good warranty.
Key Takeaway: To choose which of these are better you need to take a look at your own list of key features you want in a chair and see which matches it the best.
Is it Worth Getting a Massage Chair?
So why would you buy a massage chair? Well, you could have one specially made for you. You might feel like you can use one as you go through your day, then before you know it, you’re treating yourself to a massage each day. If so, that’s a totally different investment than you’re probably making on your mattress and pillow. But for most people, the bulk of what they spend on an investment like this is on the product itself. The company offering you a recliner has to use an experienced massage therapist to get their work done. Their massage chairs need to work together and all the customer has to do is lie down and close their eyes.
This type of investment in your health benefits is also what makes it so worthwhile to take advantage of these deals you’re going to find. These offer big savings and premium features to help you feel better and have a more enjoyable quality of life. Where to Buy a Massage Chair? These deals come from various websites around the Internet. But if you don’t want to buy direct from a site, you can check out massaging chairs that are backed by affiliate marketing programs.
Does Walmart Sell Massage Chairs?
Have you ever needed a chair massage? I know I have and maybe you have too. If you answered yes, then you are in luck! According to an article from Business Insider, Walmart is about to start selling massage chairs in the next couple of weeks! They are planning to sell the massage chairs for $999. The good news is that they can be used anywhere in the store and they can’t be used in motorized carts so if you have difficulty walking then you can use them. Do you like massages? Would you use one of these? I sure would! What about you? What do you think? Should Walmart sell massage chairs with Bluetooth speakers and remote control? Do you think Walmart needs it?
What Are the Disadvantages of a Massage Chair?
Massage chairs come with quite a few disadvantages. There are some key areas that should be kept in mind and you should be aware of them if you are planning on buying a massage chair. First of all, a massage chair comes with a large, heavy price tag. You might see them for less in the second-hand market, but this is the more expensive option. Also, you might find that massage chairs come with quite expensive maintenance fees. This might include needed adjustments or having the motor cleaned.
Additionally, they do not always come with a great level of customer support. This is not to say that the chairs are useless or require additional help, but it is rather due to the fact that they are used by a particular market. This market has different needs and needs different levels of care. Take note that not all massage chairs are created equal, and this is something you need to consider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Doctors Recommend Massage Chair?
Massage chairs offer a wide range of potential health benefits when part of an overall treatment plan prescribed by a medical professional. From reducing discomfort, stress, and anxiety to decreasing blood pressure levels and alleviating depressive symptoms, massage experience of therapy has been profoundly proven to be effective in improving physical well-being. It is important that you use your massage chair under the guidance of healthcare professionals as it should never replace traditional medical treatments or medications.
How Long Do Massage Chairs Last?
Around 10-20 years. The longevity of your massage chair hinges on a few variables, from the caliber of materials used to its frequency and upkeep. With adequate maintenance, you can expect your trusty massage chair to remain functional for up to 10 years – and that’s just an average. With the right care, some premium models can last up to two decades! Cleaning and lubrication on a regular basis will extend its lifespan while also following the manufacturer’s prescribed usage instructions like weight limits and duration of utilization. This helps prevent excessive wear-and-tear too.
What is the Difference Between Cheap and Expensive Massage Chairs?
The difference between cheap and expensive massage chairs is substantial and encompasses various aspects, including build quality, features, performance, and durability. These disparities stem from the varying levels of engineering, materials, and technology integrated into these products. It’s important to understand these differences when making a purchasing decision.
- Build Quality and Materials:
- Cheap: Inexpensive massage chairs often employ lower-quality materials and components. These chairs are typically constructed using less durable plastics and synthetic upholstery, which may wear and tear more quickly over time.
- Expensive: High-end massage chairs are crafted with premium materials, including top-grade synthetic leather or genuine leather. The use of superior materials not only enhances the chair’s appearance but also extends its lifespan.
- Massage Mechanisms:
- Cheap: Budget-friendly options usually feature basic massage mechanisms that lack the sophistication of their more expensive counterparts. The massage techniques may be less advanced and less customizable.
- Expensive: Premium massage chairs are equipped with advanced mechanisms, such as 3D or 4D rollers, which provide a more precise and customizable massage experience. They often incorporate a wider variety of massage techniques, from kneading and tapping to Shiatsu and stretching.
- Massage Coverage:
- Cheap: Lower-priced chairs may have limited massage coverage, focusing primarily on the back and neck. Users may not receive a comprehensive full-body massage.
- Expensive: High-end models offer extensive massage coverage, including the back, neck, shoulders, arms, legs, and even feet. This ensures a more comprehensive and immersive massage experience.
- Customization and Programming:
- Cheap: Inexpensive chairs may offer limited customization options, such as basic massage programs with fixed settings. Users may have less control over the massage intensity, speed, and focus areas.
- Expensive: Premium chairs provide extensive customization features, allowing users to tailor their massages to their specific needs. They often come with numerous pre-programmed massage modes and the ability to create custom massage routines.
- Durability and Longevity:
- Cheap: Due to the use of lower-quality materials and less robust components, cheap massage chairs are more susceptible to wear and tear, potentially requiring frequent repairs or replacements.
- Expensive: High-end models are designed to be more durable and long-lasting. Their superior construction and components contribute to a longer product lifespan, reducing the need for maintenance or replacement.
- Additional Features:
- Cheap: Less expensive options may lack additional features like heating elements, zero-gravity positioning, body scanning technology, and airbag massage systems.
- Expensive: Premium chairs often include a wide range of additional features and technologies that enhance the overall massage experience, such as zero-gravity positioning, advanced body scanning, heating elements, and air compression massage.
In conclusion, the difference between cheap and expensive massage chairs is significant and extends across build quality, massage mechanisms, coverage, customization, durability, and additional features. While inexpensive chairs may provide basic massage functionality, they are generally characterized by lower-quality materials and limited features. On the other hand, expensive massage chairs offer a more luxurious and customizable experience with higher-quality materials and advanced technology. The choice between the two depends on individual preferences, budget, and the desired level of comfort and functionality.
How Much Does It Cost to Make a Massage Chair?
The production of massage chairs involves several intricate steps, from conceptualization to assembly. Let’s delve into the fascinating manufacturing process:
Conceptualization and Design:
Designers and engineers collaborate to conceptualize the massage chair’s design. Blueprints are meticulously drafted, detailing each component’s size, material, and assembly instructions.
The objective is to create a massage chair that offers exceptional comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.
Choice of Materials:
Once the blueprints are complete, the appropriate materials are selected.
Key components include:
Frame: The foundation of the chair, typically made from durable materials like steel or aluminum.
Upholstery: Materials such as synthetic leather or fabric enhance comfort and visual appeal.
Control Panel: Plastic components for user interface.
Frame Construction:
The frame is meticulously crafted to handle the chair’s weight and movements.
Metal (usually steel or aluminum) is cut, molded, and welded to form the sturdy frame.
Massage Mechanism Creation:
The heart of a massage chair lies in its massage technology.
A system resembling human hands is designed, combining mechanical and electrical engineering.
Motors, gears, and rollers work together to perform various massage treatments.
Upholstery Assembly:
While structure and massage mechanisms are crucial, upholstery significantly impacts comfort and aesthetics.
Leather or synthetic materials are trimmed and sewn to fit the frame precisely.
Incorporating Modern Technology:
Advanced massage chairs feature cutting-edge technology:
Body Scanning: Customizes massages based on individual body contours.
Zero Gravity: Enhances relaxation by distributing weight evenly.
Thermal Therapy: Provides soothing heat during massages.
Quality Control:
Assembled chairs undergo rigorous quality assurance checks.
Ensures compliance with standards and promised comfort and functionality.
The global massage chair market is growing due to rising awareness about health and wellness. These therapeutic marvels continue to transform relaxation experiences worldwide12. So next time you sink into a massage chair, appreciate the intricate craftsmanship behind it!
Final Words
When choosing how much to spend on a massage chair, the general rule of thumb is that more expensive chairs are better. But, this doesn’t mean that just because a chair is cheap, it isn’t good, or just because it’s expensive, it must be amazing.
While massage chairs can be good investments, you do need to make sure that the model you’re buying, and the company you’re buying from, match your standards and expectations.
Our Summary on Cheap->Expensive Chairs:
- All models under $500 aren’t worth their price.
- If you’re looking for a unit between $1000-$2500, less is usually more (in terms of features), and look out for warranty limitations. More features usually mean less reliability.
- In the $2500-$5000 categories, go for a starter model from a reputable company with a decent amount of features. There are a lot of cheaply made chairs and marketing gimmicks in this category.
- If you’re spending $5000-$10000 – go for gold. Don’t settle for the second-best; make sure you’re getting exactly what you want (or as close to it as you can) and that the warranty covers at least 1-year in-home labor and parts.
Do make sure you’re aware of what you’re buying. Don’t fall into a marketing trap and buy something that seems to be amazing, but really isn’t, and then break after a few days.
Make sure you’re happy with the functions and the warranty – this will save you more than just money because massage chairs are supposed to be stress relievers, but they can induce a whole lot of stress if you aren’t careful.