In the 7 Best Back Massagers for Chairs – Buying Guide, we’ll explore the features, pros and cons of 7 of these types of massagers; Snailax Vibration, Snailax Shiatsu, Comfier Shiatsu, Renpho, Comfier, Zyllion, and the Comfier Shiatsu Chair.
Wouldn’t it be great to splurge on a spa massage anytime you want – maybe but not practical for most of us? But what about a massage that you can use in the convenience of your home without putting money out for each massage. Have you thought about a back massager you use in a chair or on your couch to give you a relaxing massage?
In reading Best Back Massagers for Chairs, you’ll be able to gain some insight into the options each of these back massagers have and become a more informed consumer before making a purchase decision.
There is a side-by-side chart at the bottom of the post for a quick comparison of these seven back massagers.
Quick Look Preview Table
Snailax – Vibration Back Massager
Features
- Vibration Massage NOT Shiatsu
- 6 Massage Nodes
- Massage Areas Include:
- Upper Back
- Mid-Back
- Lower Back
- Thighs
- Modes
- Pulsate
- Vibration Increases and Decreases at Intervals
- Tapping
- Short Bursts of Vibration
- Rolling
- Moves From Upper Back to Thighs and Repeats
- Kneading
- Constant Vibration
- Auto
- Cycles Through Various Massages Patterns
- Pulsate
- Intensity
- 4 Levels
- Heat
- 2 Levels
- Heating Zones
- Back
- Seat
- Overheating Protection
- Timer
- Cover
- Soft Polyester
- Auto Turn-Off
- Non-Slip Bottom
- Elastic Straps
Specs
- Dimensions
- Seat – 18.5″
- Back and Seat Total – 42″
- Product Weight
- 2.3 lbs
- Material
- Soft Polyester
- Manufacturer: Snailex
Pros
- Overheating Protection
- Auto Shut-Off
Cons
- Vibration Only
Review
If you’re looking for a massager that kneads and has massage nodes that get into the muscles, this will not be the back massager you are looking for. Many people have described it as a vibrating heating pad.
But if you are looking for something to help you relax after a hard day or find Shiatsu deep kneading massager nodes painful, then this could be just the right product for you.
As an entry-level lower price back massager, there are some good features to the Snailax.
It does have an auto shut-off, which is nice, so you don’t accidentally leave it on for hours.
Heat is available for both the back and the seat.
There are five modes of massage but remember it is vibration only, so even with kneading, it may not be what you think of when you hear the word kneading – it delivers only a vibration massage.
Snailax Full Back Massager – Shiatsu
Features
- Shiatsu
- 8 Massage Nodes with Flexible Rotation
- Spot Massage Function
- Massage Areas Include:
- Full Back
- Upper Back
- Lower Back
- Vibration Mode
- Seat
- 3 Levels of Intensity
- Areas
- Hips
- Thighs
- Heat
- Zones
- Back
- Seat
- Zones
- Neck Pillow – Removable
- Timer
- 5, 10, and 15 Minutes
- Auto Shut-Off
- Anti-Slip
Specs
- Dimensions
- 28.25 x 17 x 5.75 inches
- Product Weight
- 8.8 lbs
- Material
- PU Leather and Breathable Mesh
- Manufacturer: Snailax
Pros
- Auto Shut-Off
- Removable Neck Pillow
Cons
- Low Heat Level
- Nodes Can be Uncomfortable
- 1 Massage Mode
- Short Timer
Review
The Snailax Shiatsu Full Back Massager is different than its previous model above in that it has the shiatsu massage nodes. Now, if you’re not familiar with shiatsu deep kneading massages, you may be surprised by the intensity, and some people do find it painful, especially at first. Usually, not comfortable for a long time setting as the massage nodes are hard.
To help alleviate the nodes’ discomfort, some people find that placing a rolled-up towel or throw behind them helps in lessening the intensity.
The shiatsu back massager with heat has eight flexible and rotative nodes, to better fit the curvature of the back while delivering massaging action that can relax the shoulders, legs, and lower back.
The heat level of the Snailax is low, and some might have a hard time feeling any heat at all. If heat is a priority for you, then this back massager might not be the best choice. Another drawback to this Snailax is it has only one massage mode.
A neck pillow is a nice addition, and it is removable. Be aware that this is not a neck massager, just a pillow.
Comfier Shiatsu Back Massager
Features
- Shiatsu
- 4 Rotating Nodes
- Two Intensity Levels
- Massage Areas Include:
- Shoulders
- Back
- Waist
- Spot Massage
- Full Back
- Upper Back
- Lower Back
- Vibration Mode
- Seat
- 3 Levels of Intensity
- Massage With and Without Heat
- Heat
- Back
- Timer
- 15 minutes
- Remote Control
Specs
- Package Dimensions
- 25.75 x 18.5 x 5 inches
- Product Weight
- 8.9 Pounds
- Color
- Black
- Manufacturer: Comfier
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Intensity Levels
- Heat
Cons
- Short Timer – 15 minutes
- Painful
- Seat Massage – Vibration
Review
The Comfier Shiatsu has four modes with two intensity levels. Be aware that Shiatsu can be painful; however, this unit does come with a pad that you can place to make the nodes less intense massage.
There is only one timer function of 15 minutes. Many will find this enough time, but others might like a timer with more options.
Weighing a little under 9 lbs, the Comfier Shiatsu is easy to move from one area of your home to another.
Renpho Back Massager
Features
- Shiatsu
- 2 Nodes
- 4 Massage Zones
- Neck and Shoulder – 4 nodes
- Full
- Upper Back
- Lower Back
- Spot Function
- Intensity – 3 Levels
- Modes
- Shiatsu
- Kneading
- Rolling
- Vibration
- Adjustable Neck Massager Pillow
- Vertically adjustable
- Seat Vibration
- 2 Intensities
- Heat
- Back
- Neck
- Timer
- 15-Minutes
- Auto Shut-Off
Specs
- Dimensions
- 28.35 x 16.93 x 14.57 inches
- Product Weight:
- 15.05 lbs
- Material
- Leather
- Color
- Black
- Manufacturer: Renpho
Pros
- Adjustable Neck Massage Pillow
Cons
- Seat Has No Heat
Review
The Renpho Back Massager has an adjustable neck massage pillow that can accommodate different height people. However, some people have issues with it not adjusting high or low enough for their stature, but many find it perfect, allowing different height people in the household to use it.
Like all shiatsu massagers, the one issue is this type of deep tissue massage can be painful. The nodes are hard, so you might not be comfortable having it as a permanent fixture on a chair you will be sitting on all day. However, it isn’t too heavy where it can be moved when not in use.
The spot function allows you to concentrate the massage on a certain area for pin-point relaxation.
The heating option allows for soothing heat therapy delivering warmth to sore or tight muscles.
Comfier Back Massager
Features
- Shiatsu
- 4 Nodes
- Neck
- Shoulder
- 4 Nodes
- Back
- Two Rotation Directions
- 4 Nodes
- Modes
- Kneading
- Rolling
- Spot Massage
- Massage Areas Include:
- Full Back
- Lower Back
- Upper Back
- Seat
- Vibration
- Thighs
- Adjustable Air Compression
- 3 Intensities
- Waist
- Hips
- Timer
- 15 Minutes
- Heat
- Back
- Straps
Specs
- Dimensions
- 30.7 x 17.4 x 16.5 inches
- Product Weight
- 23.1 lbs
- Color
- Grey
- Material
- Leather
- Warranty
- 2-year Limited
- Manufacturer: Comfier
Pros
- Air Compression
- Two Directional Rotations
- Warranty
Cons
- Slightly Noisy
- May Not Be Suitable for Shorter People
- No Programming
Review
A couple of cons with the Comfier that may or may not be a deal-breaker – it is slightly noisy, so you might have issues if you are using it in a public place such as work.
There is no programming; thus, when the time goes off, and you’re not done using the massager, you have to start over and program the intensity levels, mode, etc.
The Comfier Back Massager comes with a couple of features that the previous models discussed above do not. This particular model has two directional rotations – clockwise and counterclockwise.
Also, this Comfier model comes with air compression pillows and each side, which aid in relaxing muscles in the waist and thigh area. Coming with a 2-year limited warranty is also an added plus.
Zyllion Back Massager
Features
- Shiatsu
- Neck and Shoulders
- Adjustable Up and Down
- 4 Nodes
- Forward and Reverse Available
- Back
- 4 Nodes
- 2 Rotating Speeds for Back
- Neck and Shoulders
- Modes
- Kneading
- Rolling
- Spot
- Massage Areas
- Full Back
- Upper Back
- Lower Back
- Seat
- 3 Vibration Levels
- Thighs
- Hips
- Buttocks
- Heat
- Separate for Neck and Back
- Over Heat Protection
- Ergonomic S-Shape Curve
- Auto Shut-Off
Specs
- Dimensions
- 33.25″ x 17.25″ x 15″
- Product Weight
- Approx 10 lbs
- Color
- Black
- Material
- Vegan Leather
- Warranty
- 1- Year
- Manufacturer: Zyllion
Pros
- Adustable Neck Massager
- Auto Shut-Off
- Two Speeds for Back
Cons
- Strong Intensity
Review
The Zyllion Back and Neck Massager is equipped with two speeds for the back part of the massager.
A feature not found in all massagers but is found in the Zyllion is the neck massager being adjustable. This allows for the nodes to adjust 8 1/2 inches up and down. This adjustment allows people of various heights to receive the benefits of a neck massage.
The removable neck cover acts as a buffer to lessen the intensity for a more gentle massage.
Being ergonomic s-shaped, the massager contours to the spine and body, making for a more comfortable experience. The 1-year warranty can be extended to two years with registration.
A drawback to this and most back massagers is that when it shuts off, everything needs to be reset to continue to use. Also, like other shiatsu massagers, the intensity can be too much for some people.
Comfier Shiatsu Portable Folding Massage Chair
Features
- Chair
- Foldable
- No Assembly Required
- Back Adjusts
- 110˚ – 130˚
- Shiatsu
- 8 Rotation Nodes
- Modes
- Kneading
- Spot
- Flexible Neck Massager
- 4 nodes
- Adjustable
- Massage Zones
- Full Back
- Upper Back
- Lower Back
- Heat
- Neck
- Back
- Seat
- Vibration
- 3 Levels of Intensity
- Buttocks
- Thighs
- Vibration
- Small Pocket/Storage Bag
- USB Port
Specs
- Dimensions
- 35.5″ x 26.1″ x 11.1″
- Product Weight
- 40.55 Pounds
- Color
- Black
- Weight Capacity
- 250 lbs
- Warranty
- 30 Days Money-Back Warranty For Any Reason
- 90 Days Money Back Guarantee for Quality-Related Issues
- 2 years Warranty for Quality-Related Issues
- Manufacturer – Comfier
Pros
- Chair
- Back Adjusts
- No Assembly Required
- USB Port
Cons
- Heavy
- Price Point
Review
How amazing is this – a Back Massager that comes as a chair. You don’t have to worry about finding a chair that fits your massager.
You can also take the chair massager to the room of your choice and even outside as long as you have a power connection. And even better, if you ask me, it comes fully assembled.
The back adjusts from 110˚ – 130˚ making it easier to find a comfortable position.
Also, a feature this massage chair has that the other massagers don’t is a USB port to charge your phone, iPad, etc.
It is on the heavier side, so if you have limited lifting ability, it may be too heavy for you to move.
The price point is higher with these added features than the other back/neck massagers discussed above.
Comparison Table
| Features | Snailax Vibration | Snailax Shiatsu | Comfier Shiatsu | Renpho | Comfier | Zyllion | Comfier Chair |
| |  | | | | | |
| Type | Vibration Only | Shiatsu and Vibration Seat | Shiatsu | Shiatsu and Vibration Seat | Shiatsu and Vibration Seat | Shiatsu and Vibration Seat | Shiatsu and Vibration Seat |
| Nodes | 6 | 8 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 4 | 8 |
| Modes | 5 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
| Intensity Levels | 4 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 1 | 2 speeds | 1 |
| Seat Vibration Intensity Levels | 4 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Neck Massager | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Air Compression | No | No | No | No | Yes | No | No |
| Heat Zones | Back and Seat | Back and Seat | Back | Neck and Back | Neck and Back | Neck and Back | Neck and Back |
| Heat Levels | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Overheat Protection | Yes | No | No | No | No | Yes | No |
| Auto Shut-Off | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Timer | Yes | 5, 10, 15 Minutes | 15 Minutes | 15 Minutes | 15 Minutes | 15 minutes | No |
| USB Port | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black or White | Gray | Black | Black |
| Material | Soft Polyester | PU Leather and Breathable Mesh | Not stated | Leather | Leather | Vegan Leather | PU Leather |
| Warranty | 30-day Return | 1-year warranty | 30 day/90 day/2-year | ||||
| Product Weight | 2.3 lbs | 8.8 lbs | 8.9 lbs | 15.05 lbs | 23.1 lbs | 10 lbs approx | 40.55 lbs |
| Weight Capacity | — | — | — | — | — | — | 250 lbs |
| Dimensions | Seat – 18.5″ Back and Seat Total – 42″ | 28.25″ x 17″ x 5.75″ | 25.75″ x 18.5″ x 5″ | 28.35 x 16.93 x 14.57 inches | 32.91″ x 21.1″ x 8.43 “ | 33.25″ x 17.25″ x 15″ | 35.5″x 6.1″x 11.1″ |
| Price | Price | Price | Price | Price | Price | Price | Price |
Why You Should Get A Back Massager For Chairs
If you’re sitting for an extended period of time, your posture might not be the best. Many times you inadvertently start to slouch or lean over your desk to get a closer look at your computer screen. This can lead to tight, sore muscles.
Sitting is not the only culprit leading to muscle tightness and a sore back. Heavy lifting or gardening and even just moving the wrong way can set off a terrible backache.
If you are experiencing stress, that can also lead to tight muscles.
How can a back massager help? Back massagers for chairs can help improve your posture by relieving tight muscles. They can be used to relieve tired, aching muscles from everyday activities.
A back massager can help relieve tension and stress from everyday life.
Another benefit of a back massager is it can help improve blood circulation, leading to improved energy levels and productivity.
If you’re looking for a way to improve your posture and get relief from tight muscles or a way to relax and de-stress, a back massager for chairs could be for you.
What to Look for When Buying A Back Massager For Chairs
There are a few things you should look for when you are buying a back massager for chairs.
Area Covered
Do you want just the back massaged, or do you also want the upper legs and neck? Each massager is different, so be sure to look at the area covered.
Type of Massage
There a two main types of massages with back massagers.
Shiatsu – More intense than a vibration massage. This mostly resembles a deep tissue massage that will provide deep kneading massages. It typically has several knobs or rollers used to massage the back.
Some people would describe this type of deep tissue massage as painful. It is crucial to start slowly and increase the pressure as you get used to it. If you find the shiatsu massage nodes too painful, reduce the pressure or stop using the massager.
Vibration – As the word implies, this type of massage emits vibrations to the body to improve blood circulation and offers soothing relaxation. They are often used to relieve tension, headaches, muscle pain, neck pain, and fatigue.
Heat/No Heat
Some massagers come with a heat option. If this is something you’d like, be sure to look for it as a feature because not all massagers have a heat function.
Intensity Levels
When choosing a massager, it is important to consider the intensity. If you are looking for a powerful massage, you will need a massager with high intensity. If you are looking for a gentler massage, you will need a massager with a lower intensity.
Number of Nodes
A node is a little bump or knob on a back massager that is meant to provide stimulation to the muscles.
Back Massagers come with different numbers of nodes. Some won’t have any – this is seen in vibration massagers. The more nodes a massager has usually the more intense the massage can be.
When you’re looking for a new back massager, be sure to check for nodes – they can make a big difference in the massage experience.
Price
You don’t want to break the bank, but you also don’t want to buy a cheap one that won’t last.
FAQ’s for Back Massagers
Is a vibration massager effective in relieving muscle tension and pain?
There is no definitive answer to this question. Some people swear by vibration massagers for relieving tense muscles and pain, while others find them ineffective. The most important thing is to find out what works best for you.
What does intensity mean with a massager?
Massager intensity is a measure of how much power is delivered to the massage head. This can be measured in watts or amperes. The higher the intensity, the more powerful the massage.
Does the number of nodes featured on a back massager matter?
There is no one definitive answer to this question, as the number of nodes on a back massager can matter in a few different ways. For example, if you have a lot of knots or other tension in your back, you may prefer a massager with more nodes to help break up the tension.
Alternatively, if you are looking for a more general massage, a back massager with fewer nodes may be better.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what feels best!
Disclaimer: While we work to ensure that product information is correct, manufacturers may alter their ingredient lists. Actual product packaging and materials may contain more or different information than that shown on the Living Your Senior Life website. I recommend that you not solely rely on the information presented and always read labels, warnings, and directions before using or consuming a product.
CAUTION! DO NOT use on bare skin. DO NOT use on sensitive skin areas, areas of the body that are inflamed, areas with open sores or wounds, or areas of the body with poor circulation. Extensive use could lead to excessive heating. If the product becomes too warm, discontinue use and allow the unit to cool before operating.
If you are prone to heat sensitivity OR are insensitive to heat OR have limited temperature perception, use the heat function with extreme caution. Use a towel, blanket, or other fabric made from non-flammable materials between you and the device to reduce your body’s exposure to heat, and take 15 to 20-minute breaks between sessions. Be aware that the friction of the rolling shiatsu massage combined with the heat function can intensify heat sensitivity. Wearing rough materials while using the massager may increase your risk for friction burns.
Consult with your doctor before using the massager if you have a serious medical condition such as heart disease, rheumatism, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, or various skin diseases OR if you may be pregnant if you have a pacemaker, artificial limb, or pins or screws inside any area of your body.
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Conclusion
With all products, features can change, so before purchasing, be sure the features that attracted you to the product are still the same.
Thank you for stopping by. With all the different types of back massagers available I hope you have gained some insight by reading the 7 Best Back Massagers for Chairs – Buying Guide and found one that fits your needs.
If you have any experience with or purchasing back massagers I would love to hear from you. Please comment below.
