Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (2024)

Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (1)

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Does it seem like your back creaks, cricks, and cracks every time you move? There’s a solution — and it’s not a chiropractor or a massage.

Well, maybe not a massage in the traditional sense. Back massagers can help ease stress, pressure, knots, and pain right from your own home. Not to mention they make great gifts, too. Wouldn’t you love to receive a back massager for those sore spots?

I’m somewhat of a massage junkie; I’d estimate I’ve gotten hundreds of massages in the past 20 years. As someone with both migraine and sciatic pain, I’m no stranger to back issues, either: I’m always looking to keep the pain at bay between appointments — and with everything from percussive massage guns to full-on massage chairs, the options are seemingly endless.

The Best Back Massagers

What to Consider

Safety While Using

When considering which back massager to get, safety should be top of mind. We spoke to Robert A. Hayden, Ph.D, doctor of chiropractic and a spokesperson for the American Chiropractic Association, about the best practices for using a back massager at home, given the wide variety of available products to buy and use outside of a professional setting.

Hayden says, “You should use your back massage device or see your massage therapist for routine or recurrent conditions, such as sore muscles after a workout or yard work. Your body will tell you if the pain/discomfort is something you are accustomed to feeling.”

He adds that you don’t need to splurge on a name-brand back massager to feel quick relief at home either, advising that “the brand you choose is much less important than whether it’s easy to use, has variable speeds, and produces the desired result, which is muscle relaxation.”

Massage Strength

Generally, the best back massagers are the ones that give users the autonomy to choose the strength of their massage, whether the sensation is a kneading Shiatsu massage, gentle vibration, or percussive pulse. It’s important to be able to quickly and easily adjust the intensity not to exacerbate an already-strained body part or create a new injury. It’s also a good idea to look for a device with an auto-off feature that can signal when it’s time to give your body a break. Hayden advises users with preexisting conditions to be extra careful.

“Use these instruments with caution if you are taking anticoagulants, as bruising can easily result,” he says. “Where there is decreased sensation due to issues with the spine, diabetes, or other conditions, overuse of a vibrating massager is possible. Use them with caution if you have osteoporosis or any other condition that weakens bone.”

Plug-In Versus Rechargeable Functionality

Depending on where and how often you're planning to use your back massager, consider whether getting a plug-in device or one with a rechargeable battery makes the most sense.

Rechargeable or battery-powered devices allow you the flexibility to use the device anywhere since you're not tethered to an outlet. These generally feel like higher-tech devices that offer many different speed levels or massage functions. On the other hand, plug-in devices are more reliable and eliminate the worry of having to charge up the gadget or change batteries. If you’re planning to use your chosen back massager in the same place at home, a plug-in device should suit your needs just fine.

Our guide to the best back massagers covers electronic and manual devices of varying intensity levels. Read on to find your preferred mode of targeted or all-over relief.

How We Selected

Ready to wave goodbye to annoying back pain? (Of course you are!) As a beauty writer and self-proclaimed massage connoisseur, I left no stone unturned in my research. I looked at and tried myriad back massagers in different categories, from percussive massage guns to heated massage pads. I already owned (and loved) the Nekteck, but knew there were many other types of massagers in the category, too. I also considered price, wanting to include a wide variety of massagers that could work for those on a budget or people for whom cost was no issue.

I did the legwork on these devices (or the back work, as the case may be), so keep reading for the best back massagers to offer your back, neck, and shoulders some sweet relief.

1

Best Overall

Zyllion Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager

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Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (3)

Pros
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (4)Massage feels thorough without being intense
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (5)On/off heat function for added relief
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (6)Great portable size
Cons
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (7)Requires cord to work

It’s tough to find a back massager more universally beloved than the Zyllion Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager. It’s a 4.5-star Amazon product with over 49,000 global ratings, and 73% of those reviews give it a perfect score.

This massager is 13x9 inches, which is about the size of a small throw pillow. It comes with adjustable straps that let you affix it to the back of a seat so that it can be angled right to the area with the most tension. Its four red massage balls rotate to administer a rhythmic, Shiatsu-style massage. Plus, the device is heated for added relief.

Users love its versatile design, with one saying, “Super easy to use in a chair or when lying down. I also like how it switches direction after like a minute.” Its price point also makes it a nice — but still affordable — gift.

More: This Simple $10 Massage Ball Is Perfect for Anytime Relief

Key Specs

Number of Speeds1
Auto-Off Time20 minutes
Massage StyleRolling Shiatsu

2

Best Chair Cushion

Snailax Shiatsu Massage Chair Pad

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Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (9)

You don’t need to make an appointment at a salon to use a massage chair, and you certainly don’t need to buy a full-size massaging recliner when you have the Snailax Shiatsu Massage Chair Pad. This plug-in device can be layered right on top of any seat with a back, and it can be operated via its corded remote control.

The four kneading massage balls rotate up and down the back, and the seat vibrates. You have control over the area of the massaging, the intensity of the vibration, and even whether or not you want a little heat on top of it for further relief.

Key Specs

Number of Speeds3
Auto-Off Time15 minutes
Massage StyleRolling Shiatsu and vibrational

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3

Best Realistic Massage

Nekteck Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager with Heat

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Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (14)

Pros
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (15)3 different strength levels and heating modes
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (16)Intensive rolling Shiatsu-style massage works on neck, back, and shoulders
Cons
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (17)Requires cord to work

Sometimes you’re really jonesing for a massage, but just don’t have the time — or money — to make it to the spa. When that happens, simply reach for the Nekteck Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager. The eight different rolling massage nodes truly feel like a person’s hands kneading your back, neck, and shoulders. This back massager has three different intensity levels — though even level one is pretty hard, so it’s best to start low and work your way up. It also includes two different heating levels. While you can slip your arms through the openings and wear it like a shrug, I’ve actually found it’s better to just hold it in place, especially since you can move it to different areas throughout the 15-minute session. (Or, as I often do, two 15-minute back-to-back sessions. Pun intended.)

This back massager ranks #4 in Electric Back Massagers on Amazon, and has an impressive 54,902 global ratings, with 70% giving it a perfect five-star rating.

“Sweet, sweet relief!” writes one shopper. “It’s great if you carry a lot of tension in your neck or shoulders, but I’ve been using it all over my back. Took it on a trip with me and got almost immediate relief after a 5-hour flight. Forget the massage therapy, do it at home!”

Key Specs

Number of Speeds3
Auto-Off Time15 minutes
Massage StyleShiatsu

4

Best Wearable

TRIDUCNA Shiatsu Back Neck and Shoulder Massager

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Pros
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (19)Custom speed and heat controls
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (20)Arm pockets allow you to angle it to any specific spot
Cons
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (21)Requires cord to work

The TRIDUCNA Shiatsu Back Neck and Shoulder Massager can be looped around your neck or back to allow its eight bi-directional nodes to rotate back and forth on your problem areas. You can program your preferred speed and heat level for added relief. Its arm pockets also allow you to hold the massager in place while you use it.

Even if it isn’t the sleekest device, its simple yet effective functionality helps undo tension in those hard-to-reach places. Says one reviewer, “It's been a year and a half since purchasing this, and I still love it. It is a bit bulky, but it helps when you've had a knot in your back for days! The heat function is no joke and feels amazing.”

Key Specs

Number of Speeds3
Auto-Off Time15 minutes
Massage StyleRolling Shiatsu

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5

Most Powerful

HeaDot Deep-Tissue Massage Gun

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Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (23)

Pros
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (24)6-hour-long rechargeable battery
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (25)Comes with 10 different attachment heads
Cons
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (26)Percussive massage is risky for certain people

If you’re looking for something with a little more power behind it for targeted relief instead of all-over relaxation, a percussive massage gun like the HeaDot Deep-Tissue Massage Gun could be a good option for you.

It has 30 speed levels and a 6-hour-long rechargeable battery, and it comes with ten different massage heads to either blunt or concentrate the sensation as needed on your muscles. Its long handle also gives you plenty of flexibility to angle it behind you to different spots on your back, though reviewers use it anywhere from their arms to their chest to their glutes.

Keep in mind that massage guns may not be appropriate for everybody because of their intensity. Dr. Hayden says, “I would recommend this for specific application, such as athletes with myalgia (muscle pain) or muscle spasms. This instrument would work well where there is significant muscle mass, but it might be injurious to someone who is slender, elderly, or debilitated.”

Key Specs

Number of Speeds30
Auto-Off TimeNone
Massage StylePercussive

6

Most Unique

ACHEDAWAY Cupper Massager

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Pros
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (28)Comes with three different cup sizes to target specific areas
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (29)Rechargeable with a USB charging port
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (30)Has 5 different suction modes and red light therapy
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (31)Links to a Bluetooth-enabled app so you can change modes while using
Cons
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (32)May not be suitable for those with various medical conditions or allergies
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (33)As with any cupping, large red marks form on skin after using
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (34)Difficult to remove mid-session

Ever since Gwyneth Paltrow showed up on the red carpet with telltale red cupping marks back in 2004, the ancient Asian therapy technique has taken the world by storm. The Achedaway Cupper gives cupping new meaning, thanks to its powered-up cupper that attaches to your body.

Delivering intense pulses for up to 12 minutes, this device includes three different-sized plastic cuppers that attach to a round device with buttons for suction mode, red light therapy, and intensity control.

Since it can be difficult to reach the cupper mid-session, it also links to an app with Bluetooth, where you can control the five different suction modes (Wake Up, Relaxing, Massage, Professional, and Powerful) and switch the red light therapy on and off. It leaves telltale cupping marks behind after only a few minutes of use, so be forewarned if you have an event.

Even the lighter modes can feel fairly intense, so start cautiously and increase intensity as your body gets more used to the device. One shopper raves, “It works wonders for muscle pain.”

Key Specs

Number of Speeds5 modes, 5 intensity levels
Auto-Off TimeNone
Massage StyleCupping suction, myofascial release

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7

Most Gentle

Homedics Quatro Mini Hand-Held Massager with Vibration Massage

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Pros
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (36)Light and simple enough for nearly anyone to control
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (37)Ideal for those who like a gentle massage
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (38)Under $5
Cons
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (39)Runs on batteries and can drain quickly

The Homedics Quatro Mini Handheld Massager provides more of a feel-good, relaxing sensation than intense muscle kneading. This battery-operated, handheld back massager has just one vibratory massage mode, but at less than $5, it’s one of the most affordable devices you can buy!

Its handle allows you to hold it in place at the shoulders or lower back, though reaching the upper back with this device may require some assistance.

Many people who live with chronic pain and/or have limited mobility love this device because it's lightweight, easy to control, and the massage is very gentle yet soothing. One happy customer says, “I have pain from fibromyalgia and bad arthritis, and a small vibrating massager like this is easy for me to use on the painful places on my calves and near my knees. It gives me great relief when I need it — and I never find it uncomfortable to use.”

Key Specs

Number of Speeds1
Auto-Off TimeNone
Massage StyleVibratory

8

Best Budget

Comfier Heating Pad with Massager

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Pros
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (41)Includes an adjustable strap to increase the size
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (42)Can be worn on multiple areas
Cons
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (43)Requires cord to work

If you’re looking for a back massager that won’t break the bank, the Comfier Heated Massage Pad is worth a try. Its wraparound design makes it best for targeted lower back massaging, though you can also lay it flat across your entire back or even your stomach and legs. While not as powerful as some of its peers, it does offer enough massaging to alleviate some lower back pressure. Two different heating modes are a welcome addition, while the soft, plush fabric feels great against the skin. The overall sensation is more soothing than Shiatsu-like, but if you don’t enjoy being pummeled by your massager, this is the one for you. However, even with the additional Velcro adjuster belt, it’s worth noting that it may not fit all body types.

Comfier has a host of different heating pads and back massagers available, but this combines both heat and massage, making it our preferred choice.

One reviewer says, “I was looking for a dual purpose massager and a heating pad, this fit the bill to a T. I like that there are multiple settings for both the massage as well as the heat. It is worth every penny.”

Key Specs

Number of Speeds3
Auto-Off Time30 minutes
Massage StyleVibratory

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9

Best After Workouts

Hyperice Hypervolt 2

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Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (45)

Pros
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (46)Comes with 5 different head attachments (fork, ball, cushion, flat, bullet) in a convenient zip pouch
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (47)3 different percussion speeds
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (48)3 hour battery life
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (49)Connects to the Hyperice app via Bluetooth for automated speed control and routines
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (50)Cordless
Cons
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (51)Can be a bit unwieldy to hold
  • Our 9 Favorite Back Massagers to Work Out All the Kinks at Home (52)Pricier

If you’re into intense workouts — or you’re looking to gift someone who is — the Hypervolt 2 Massage Gun is an ideal choice. While the design may look a bit scary and overwhelming at first, it’s actually a very intuitive device with tons of customizable options. Take, for example, the five different massage head attachments (fork, ball, cushion, flat, and bullet), all contained in a convenient zip pouch. The cushion attachment is best for beginners; the round works on large muscle groups and the fork works on areas like upper traps, ankles, and calves; while the small bullet will give you the deepest, most intense pressure and localized muscle treatment. It even includes an app with Bluetooth access for speed and routine variation.

The three different percussive speeds let you control how much pressure you’re getting, though even level one is pretty intense. “It deals with problem muscles and soreness in ways that nothing else can,” writes one reviewer. “I work out regularly and I use it with high frequency. Really get to the muscle point,” says another. “This little gem is great right after a run for easing some of the stiffness,” raves another shopper. “I also like to use it right before going to bed — it seems to keep me from having quite so stiff quads and glutes in the morning.

Key Specs

Number of Speeds3
Auto-Off TimeNone
Massage StylePercussive

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Melanie Yates

Senior Digital Editor

Melanie Yates is the Senior Digital Editor at House Beautiful, where she oversees design, gardening, and home renovation content. Since joining the team in 2024, Melanie ideates, assigns, and edits digital stories from in-house and freelance writers and helps execute big-picture projects for the brand. Prior to this role, Melanie was a senior editor at Best Products for over eight years, where she launched the site’s home vertical, conducted numerous bedding product tests, wrote The Present Perfect newsletter column, and produced video tutorials on how to wrap a gift. A lifelong enthusiast of the written word, Melanie holds a BA in broadcast journalism from Hofstra University and a certificate in copyediting from UC San Diego Extension. She’s always on the lookout for the next vintage find to furnish her Queens apartment.

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