A good massage is perhaps what everyone yearns for at the end of a tiring day. But heading to a massage therapist even once a week isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, given the high costs involved per session.
Buying a massage chair is a great investment, and is worth its weight in gold, that is if you buy the right one for your needs.
One of the questions I get most often is: How much is a massage chair? The answer can be a tad bit tricky, given the sea of options available at different price points.
The cost of a good massage chair can range between $1000 to upwards of 10,000, and it goes without saying that the more expensive the model, the more features you will enjoy.
What Features Influence the Cost of Massage Chairs?
There are several features that can affect the cost of massage chairs, and knowing what they are will help you make an informed decision.
1. Automated and customizable massage programs
Many massage chair models, especially budget-friendly massage chairs come with a limited number of massage programs such as Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and Deep massage.
Then there are others that allow you to add and customize new programs according to your specific needs.
Massage chairs that feature customizable massage programs typically cost $3000, and a good example is the Kahuna Superior Massage Chair.
The Kahuna Superior massage chair can be ordered in a choice of 5 great color options, and offers a total of nine auto programs to choose from including yoga stretching and senior mode.
Furthermore, it can accommodate all body types, and up to 320 lbs weight, making it a great choice for heavyweight users.
If you don’t want to splurge on the Kahuna Superior Massage chair, but still want intelligent massage modes, and three levels of massage strength, the BOSSCARE massage chair is worth a second look.
It is priced at just under $1000, and is loaded with features including Bluetooth speaker support, six intelligent massage modes, and extended footrests for taller people.
2. Advanced rollers for direct and concentrated massages
All massage chairs except the airbag exclusive models are fitted with a roller system. These roller balls move up and down to simulate massaging hands working the muscles in your body.
Advances rollers, also known as quad rollers feature two rollers on each side, provide you with a deeper, more intense massage experience.
The Kahuna Massage Chair LM-6800 costs a little over $2000, and comes with an L-track quad roller system that massages your neck, back all the way to your buttocks.
It even features dual foot rollers to massage your feet area, and an adjustable three-level roller speed, and air cell massage.
3. Airbags for flat, even muscle pressure
Some massage chair models come with airbags that provide great relief for your entire body. The airbags are designed to compress, squeeze, knead, roll and swing the body.
Massage chairs with airbags cost start at $1500, and can go all the way to $5000+. The Real Relax massage chair is a great massage chair with both airbags and a roller to massage from head to thighs.
It offers 12 different massage techniques to choose from, and features robot hands tucked away in the backrest for complete relaxation.
4. Zero-gravity recline capability
Zero gravity massage chairs allow you to recline all the way back up to the neutral body position.
When you’re in this zero-gravity position, your legs are raised above your heart level, and evenly distribute your weight along your body.
The cost of zero gravity massage chairs ranges from $1000 to $5000+, and the Real Relax Massage Chair is a great pocket-friendly model.
This S track massage chair features six auto programs, a one-button zero gravity design, and offers a heating function, foot roller and airbag massage.
5. App Control or Quick Access Control Panel
This range of chairs comes with advanced features such as app control, and/or a quick access panel.
Adding to this, they also provide advanced reflexology massages, and body scan technology for personalized massages.
Massage chairs in this space can cost anywhere between $5000 to $10,000+, and are loaded with innovative features.
The Kahuna King’s Elite massage chair boasts a powerful massage system, and comes with a touch screen remote controller.
Apart from its preconfigured massage programs, it provides a 4D massage that mimics a real massage therapist.
Massage Chairs Under $500
Massage chairs under $500 will come with basic features, and are generally considered a great upgrade from a traditional reclining chair.
The massage functions in this budget-friendly range of chairs will be limited, and will target only certain body areas such as the lower back and/or thighs.
Massage Chairs Under $1500
Massage chairs that cost between $1000 to $1500 come with built-in rollers, airbags, and multiple massage modes and programs.
Most of these entry-level chairs offer less adjustability, and offer a lower number of massage features and programs.
Massage Chairs Under $2500
At this price point, you can generally score entry-level models from big brands such as kahuna.
They feature S-track or L-track roller systems, and come with specialty massage programs such as Swedish massage and deep tissue massage.
Some massage chair models in this price range offer smart body scans, and feature space-saving technology.
Massage Chairs from $5000+ to $10,000+
Massage chairs in this price range literally come with all the bells and whistles such as multiple intensity levels, and a wide range of programs.
Adding to this, they feature high-quality craftsmanship, and can be controlled via smartphone apps and/or voice assistants.
To top things off, they are backed by long 10+ year warranties, so you can rest assured they will last for several years to come.
Final Thoughts
Quality massage chairs can be a big-ticket purchase, and is something where you get what you pay for!
There’s no shortage of cheap massage chairs, but these are mostly made from poor quality materials, and don’t come with even the essential features for a satisfying massage.
