6 Best Massage Chairs under $500 (Fall 2024)

Name: HOMREST Ergonomic Massage Office Chair
Brand: HOMREST Ergonomic Massage Office Chair

ReclinerLand is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here

Did you know that J.H Kellogg brought massage therapy into the USA? During this period, massage was not acceptable in this jurisdiction due to the belief that it was barbaric with links to prostitution. Over the years, this technique gradually grew in popularity among the American people to be where it is today. The first massage chair was David Palmer’s creation. The 1^st chairs of this kind were pricey and not readily available, but this is not the case anymore. Currently, you can easily get yourself the best massage chair under $500.

In this article, we review 6 models that feature the latest technology as well as top-notch artistry and pick the HOMREST Ergonomic Massage Office Chair as our Editor’s Choice. We pay a keen interest in the fundamental features that any massage chair must have. These elements are; upholstery, weight capacity, dimensions, and the mass of the massage chair. You must be privy to this information regarding a massage chair to ensure that you buy an appropriate unit.

Quick Summary

Editor's Choice: HOMREST Ergonomic Massage Office Chair

"This is an excellent massage chair with heating functionality, an adjustable back angle and height, and rolling casters for moving around your desk."
Upgraded Pick: Full Body Electric Shiatsu Massage Chair

"Three preset massage programs and ergonomic design are what this remarkable chair can offer"
Elegant Design: JC Home Massage chair

"It’s a modern-looking massage chair that comes with an ottoman for an additional comfort"
Premium Pick: Esright Massage Recliner

"Cozy massage recliner, it also has heating therapy feature and five relaxing programs"
Ergonomic Design: LAGRIMA Full Body Massage Chair

"This chair has a shiatsu massage feature along with a stylish modern look"
Best Massage Office Chair: Mecor Massage Office Chair

"This is a fully adjustable office chair that also has a wireless remote"

Top 6 Massage Chairs under $500 Review 2024

Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 9223 people in the past 30 days

9.9

Customer Feedback

9.4

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

9.7

Features & Benefits

Product Review

9.5

9.9

Check price

Amazon

Features

Upholstery: faux leather
Dimensions: 21.26 x 21.26 x 46.85 inches
Weight capacity: 300 lbs.
Weight: not specified

Extra features: ergonomic features, adjustable height, adjustable back angle, 360-degree rotation cushion, rolling swivel caster, heated function, 8-mode vibration massage, remote control

The HOMREST Ergonomic Massage Office Chair is an easy pick for our editor’s choice, given how easily it could be either a home or office chair. That said, the design is better suited for office work, with a thickened headrest and high backrest to keep your spine straight throughout the workday.

The backrest can be adjusted between 90 and 130 degrees depending on whether you’re working or relaxing for a bit. Other comfort features besides the massage function include dual-layer soft cushions enclosed in high-quality PU leather. There’s also the pneumatic adjustable seat height and the comfortable armrests.

Like most office chairs, the seat offers 360-degree rotation. Caster wheels at the bottom also provide mobility from your desk to the storage cabinets behind it without having to stand up. The PU leather can also resist oil and water, which should make cleaning the chair occasionally a cakewalk.

While it ships in pieces, everything you’d need for assembly, including the tools, is provided. By the time you’re done setting it up, it should comfortably hold up to 300 lbs. There’s also the retractable footrest hidden underneath the seat. Combine this with the 130-degree recline, and you can take your power nap in absolute comfort.

Nevertheless, most people will buy the chair for its massage capabilities that, include 100℉ heating. Add in the eight massage modes focused on your lower back, and it should be possible to power through even the longest of work days.

Why did it make our list?

Multiple available seat adjustments
Comfy
Straightforward assembly
PU leather is easy to clean
Heating therapy

What is not ideal about it?

The massage and heating options can only be used together

Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 4146 people in the past 30 days

9.7

Customer Feedback

9.3

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

9.6

Features & Benefits

Product Review

9.6

9.7

Full Body Electric Shiatsu Massage Chair

Check price

Amazon

Features

Upholstery: PU leather
Dimensions: 26 x 36 x 36 inches
Weight capacity: 200 lbs.
Weight: 63.4 lbs.

More features: has a USB charger; ergonomic design; has three preset massage programs; equipped with four airbags; shiatsu massage

The electric Shiatsu massage chair is yet another unit that offers a full body massage. It applies pressure to certain parts of your body to release tension and help you relax. Its dimensions are 26 x 36 x 36 inches while the weight is 63.4lbs.

Many factors make this chair one of the best zero gravity massage chair under $500. It has a weight capacity of 200lbs. This means that many people can use this chair.

The chair comes with three preset programs making usage a walk in the park. Preset modes range from kneading, knocking, shiatsu, and tapping to air pressure.

This is one of the few massage chairs that have an in-built Bluetooth speaker connectivity to aid in your relaxation. The armrest has a convenient phone slot that keeps your device next to you while you receive the massage.

PU leather covers the padding and rollers in this massage chair. This material plays a critical role in the durability of this piece. It is also waterproof and easy clean; hence you can use this massage chair with minimal reservations on cleaning.

Why did it make our list?

Preset massage programs
Ergonomic design
Sturdy
Easy to clean
Modern design
Finest massage experience

What is not ideal about it?

Limiting to tall people

Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 2232 people in the past 30 days

9.6

Customer Feedback

9.4

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

9.2

Features & Benefits

Product Review

9.5

9.6

Features

Upholstery: 90% polyurethane, 10% leather powder
Dimensions: 32.2 x 29.9 x 41 inches
Weight capacity: not specified
Weight: 46.7 lbs.

More features: available in different colors; has a soft ottoman

Getting a stylish and functional massage chair for your home is an uphill task. This JC Home Massage chair is among the few pieces under $500 that are elegant. This unit will improve the appearance of any room you place it in a while availing maximum comfort to all users.

This massage chair measures 32.2 x 29.9 x 41 inches while its mass is 46.7 lbs. The weight limit information is unavailable. This is the only downside for this unit. Make sure that you find this info from the manufacturer before buying it.

The upholstery is 90% polyurethane and 10% leather powder. This combination has limitless advantages that you get when you acquire this piece. Polyurethane is an ideal covering for this chair due to its resilience and ability to minimize noise from the vibrating function.

It is durable and offers resistance to normal wear and tear, increasing the lifespan of this unit considerably. The metal base offers sturdiness to this massage chair. The other feature that interests a decent number of people is the ottoman that comes with this unit. The soft ottoman provides you with extra relaxation while your massage is underway. Also, you can use it to place things that you will require during the process.

Why is it special?

Tasteful
Comfortable
Easy to assemble
Sturdy
Value for money

What are the flaws?

Weight capacity info unavailable

Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 7140 people in the past 30 days

9.5

Customer Feedback

9.4

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

9.1

Features & Benefits

Product Review

9.3

9.5

Check price

Amazon

Features

Upholstery: PU leather
Dimensions : 33.5 x 35.8 x 43.2 inches
Weight capacity: 300 lbs.
Weight: not specified

More features: 360-degree swivel; thick padded; easy to assemble; heating therapy; five massage programs

The Esright massage recliner is one of the most versatile units that we came across going for less than $500. It has multiple functions and a top-tier construction. Additionally, the quality of materials they use for this massage chair ensure that it serves you and your family for a long time.

The upholstery is PU leather. It is one of the best materials to use for such units as it is hardwearing. Faux leather also brings a classy look to your home. The thick padding on the seat, backrest, and arms of this chair ensure that you are as snug as possible when using it.

The overall measurements for this unit are 33.5 x 35.8 x 43.2 inches. This element is critical as it helps you decide if the space you have is enough for this chair. The weight capacity is 300lbs. The mass of the chair is not available, and you should enquire directly from the producer.

Esright Massage Recliner is a unit with five relaxing functions. You can choose to recline, swivel, rock, heat the chair, or enjoy the 360 degrees’ swivel function. The massage function has five modes and two intensity levels. The recline feature is manual, while the massage functions require power and a remote controller.

What makes it special?

Comfy
Ergonomic support
Straightforward assemble
Top-notch construction
Heating therapy

What cons did we find?

Not suitable for tall people

Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 4315 people in the past 30 days

9.4

Customer Feedback

9.0

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

9.2

Features & Benefits

Product Review

8.9

9.4

Check price

Amazon

Features

Upholstery: PU leather
Dimensions: 23.8 x 35.04 x 34.25 inches
Weight capacity: not specified
Weight: not specified

More features: shiatsu massage; ergonomic design; space-saving

If you are for a PU leather stylish piece ideal for small spaces, then your search may be over. This LAGRIMA Full Body Massage Chair is a space-saving unit that will give you different massage options.

Information regarding the weight capacity and the mass of this unit is not available. These are critical factors that you cannot assume. Ensure that you find out about this info before you place your order to avoid the limitations of the same. Its dimensions are 23.8 x 35.04 x 34.25 inches.

The beauty with this massage chair is that it can work on your whole body from the neck to the legs. The 3D massage function works on your skin to get rid of fatigue, help recover flexibility, and release the tiredness and stiffness in bones.

This unit can fit in many areas within your homes, such as the bedroom and living room. It is also suitable for an office setting due to the space-saving design. The control panel gives you access to the various massage settings available.

You can press the automatic massage button if you are unsure about the other settings. This feature makes it easy to use this massage chair even for beginner users.

Why did it make our list?

Robust upholstery
Space-saving
Ergonomic shape
Full body massage
No assembly
Sleek design

What is not ideal about it?

Narrow

Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 3626 people in the past 30 days

9.0

Customer Feedback

8.5

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

8.8

Features & Benefits

Product Review

8.5

9.0

Check price

Amazon

Features

Upholstery: PU leather
Dimensions: 11.02 x 12.2 x 17.72 inches
Weight capacity: 260 lbs.
Weight: 15.4 lbs.

More features: adjustable; has a wireless remote; 360-degree swivel

The Mecor Massage Office Chair is our Editor’s Choice that fits both in the workplace and in the home as well. It has features that ensure that you receive a relaxing massage throughout your body while you work.

This unit has soft vibration points on the seat and the backrest to ensure that all the essential areas in your body are taken care of. These vibrations help relax your muscles and enhance blood circulation in the body. It can massage the upper and lower back areas, the lumbar, and thighs.

It measures 11.02 x 12.2 x 17.72 inches and weighs 15.4 lbs. This makes this unit ideal for tight spaces with a capacity of 260 lbs. It’s an adjustable unit that allows for a 360-degree swivel.

The ergonomic design that this chair features warrants your comfort even with long-term usage. The top-tier foam makes the cushioning relaxing and durable. The PU leather covering ensures that this seat is pleasing to the eye and resilient to abrasion.

Regarding the massage function, this chair has a total of 6. It comes with wireless remote control that allows you to regulate the settings accordingly. You can choose the time that your massage should last, intensity, and the massage mode, among other things.

Why are we impressed?

Ergonomic design
Adjustable
Wireless remote
360-degree swivel
Resilient

What negatives must you be aware of?

Manufacture defects

Also Product Ranking:

Our 3 pick for the: best massage office chair

Things to Consider

Before you buy anything, you must be in the know of all the factors that you must consider. Our buying guide contains necessary features that you must look out for when buying a massage chair. We include some of the benefits of having a massage chair at home to help you gauge whether having it is a worthy investment or not. Getting the best when working with a budget is of less than $500 is not easy. However, this does not mean that you will not get the fines. We dive deep into the various features of massage chairs below. Read on to familiarize yourself with these elements, which will help you pick the best massage chair under $500 for both home and office use.

Advantages of having a massage chair at home

Massaging your body time and again helps with many things. Booking appointments for such services is costly and not easy to find in many jurisdictions. Having a massage chair at home has an array of advantages. Here are some of them:

Convenience – this is one of the major plusses of having your massage chair in the home or office. You can receive a massage as your schedule permits. Having a massage chair in the office or home allows you to have a daily session if you so wish. You can even get a massage as you catch up on work or a series. The timing of each session will also be as per your choice.

Cost-effective – buying a massage chair helps you save a lot of money that you would have spent in spas getting this service. The cost acquisition is a one-off cost for massages for a long time to come. For this reason, you must vet the massage chair you want to buy. This will ensure that you do not get a unit that will wear out quickly or malfunction with subsequent use.

Avails post-workout recovery – if you exercise as part of your daily routine, then a massage chair in the home is a great addition. Massage helps elevate pain from workouts and allow the body to recover. Your muscles will be grateful if you get a massage chair. The assistance that massage avails to the body play a vital role in cellular function and repair of the same. A boost in your immunity will help improve your overall health.

Features to consider before you buy a massage chair under $500

Massage chairs have many features that you must be keen on during purchase. Both functional and additional features are essential in helping you make a decision.

Purpose

Before you buy a massage chair, you must evaluate the reasons why you want one. There are different types of massage chairs, each with features to cater to specific needs. Some massage chairs are ideal for the office setup; others are best for the home, while others are perfect massage chairs for gaming. Once you are aware of the reasons why you need a massage chair, making a choice will be more comfortable. The purpose dictates the features that you must look at to make sure that you get an appropriate unit. For instance, if you want a chair that you can give you a massage in the office while you work those late nights, you should consider the Mecor Massage Office Chair.

Upholstery

The material covering a seat you are after is a vital aspect that determines many other things. Ease of cleaning is one of the top reasons why you should consider the type of upholstery.

Durability and comfort are the other factors that determine which type of upholstery will work well with your needs.

From the units we review above, it is clear that PU leather is the most used upholstery for massage chairs. This is so because of the many advantages of using PU leather for massage chairs. Some of the reasons why this material is common in this collection to include; ease of cleaning, resilience to abrasion, longevity, and comfort, among many others. Some manufacturers combine PU leather with other materials, as is the case with the JC Home Massage chair.

Weight capacity

If you are buying your chair for yourself and other people, you must know what the weight limit is. Each chair has a build that accommodates a particular weight. Exceeding the mass cap will wear out the massage chair sooner than you expect. Other than the reduction in life span, sticking to the weight cap ensures that the different functions work with minimal strain. Most of the massage chairs that we review have a decent weight capacity that caters to a full breadth of people. Some brands, however, do not have this information making it hard for anyone to pick them. If the JC Home Massage chair is what you want, ensure that you reach out to the manufacturer for the mass limit before you buy.

Weight of a chair

The weight of the chair determines various elements of each unit. Massage chairs that utilize heavy-duty material tend to be heavier than those that do not.

The mass of the chair will help you determine if the construction is long-lasting or not.

Do not rely on this information only to help you pick the best chair for you. This is because technology has made it easier to make sturdy units when using the least heavy materials. If you intend to move your massage chair often, you should consider picking one that is not so heavy. Also, the placement of the chair in the home will help decide what mass is ideal. The Full Body Electric Shiatsu Massage Chair is one of the most massive units that we talk about in this article.

Reclining

This is among the additional features that some massage chairs have in their design. When you start shopping for a massage chair, have this feature in mind. Finding a massage chair that has this feature for less than $500 is a worthy buy. Read through the product description to confirm if a unit you are after reclines or not. Massage chairs that recline offer the utmost relaxation to the body. Reclining makes a chair ideal for every time use and not just when you are getting a massage. A unit such as the Esright Massage Recliner that has this feature is a useful addition to any space.

Heating

Heating has many health benefits that help improve your well-being. Most massage chairs have this feature. The combination of the heating and massage not only helps you relax but improves the blood circulation in your body as well. Proper realignment of your spine, better lung capacity, and an improvement in your mental health are among the benefits of this feature. For the office setup, you should get the Mecor Massage Office Chair or a unit similar to this. The heat will help ease the tension in your muscles and reduce spasms, which puts you in the best shape to work.

If you enjoy gaming, chairs with the heating function will ensure that you increase your flexibility and range of motion without leaving the seat.

Massage programs

It is not practical to buy a chair with just one massage function. There are various massage techniques out there that you should be in a position to explore. Swedish, hot stone, deep tissue, trigger point, reflexology, and shiatsu massage are among the many variations available. Each massage has advantages that you must know before you settle for one. Massage chairs are not able to perform certain types of this therapy due to the setup and the dynamics they involve. Pick a chair that has many modes and levels of intensity to help you achieve your goals. The Full Body Electric Shiatsu Massage Chair is an example of such a unit.

FAQ

How do you assemble a massage chair at home?

The assembly procedures vary from one model to the next. The manufacturers of the various models in the market avail guide on how to assemble. The best way to assemble any massage chair at home is by following the instructions that accompany the unit. If you are unsure about any of the steps, it is prudent to contact the producer for the way forward. Lay out all the parts that need assembly and ascertain that you are sure of where each part goes before you start the assembly. Seeking help from an expert in such things may be the way out for you if you cannot figure out the assembly. Avoid forcing the parts to come together as this may damage the massage chair.

Is it safe to use a heating feature?

Yes, it is safe to use the heating feature. Most massage chairs incorporate this feature to elevate the performance of the piece. Read more on heating mechanisms in massage chairs to help you understand how they work. Important to note, however, is that you must use the massage chair as per the instructions from the manufacturer. Do not try to explore the heating feature as the results could be catastrophic. Engage the customer support team of the brand you want to buy and learn more about the technology they use for this function. Also, read reviews and testimonials from previous clientele to help you make an informed choice. To prevent any accidents involving this feature, ensure that the unit’s assembly is impeccable. Also, observe all the safety guidelines to the letter.

Our verdict

The five massage chairs we discuss above are among the finest in the market. You cannot go wrong with any of the brands above. The first unit on our list is one of the most sought-after. It is also our editor’s choice herein. The Mecor Massage Office Chair is our top pick for various reasons. It is a unit that brings style into your home while offering various massage options. You can be sure that this unit will serve you for many years to come thanks to the sturdy materials and seamless construction.

As our top pick, the HOMREST Ergonomic Massage Office Chair has so many perks, especially as an office chair. In addition to massage functionality, there’s a footrest, adjustable back angles, height, and comfortable armrests.

References

Are Massage Chairs Relevant to Recovery Fitness? - InsideHook

The recovery fitness industry is booming. Do these iconic machines have a place in it?

www.insidehook.com

Your Guide to the Benefits of a Massage Chair | Wayfair

Thinking about buying a massage chair? Use this guide as a resource to learn about all the purported benefits of massage chairs and the types of massages they can provide.

www.wayfair.com