Revitive is the overall winner for the best massage device brand. It received the best ratings for performance, features and ease of use.
There's quite a wide range of products to compare if you're shopping for a massager. Some are designed for use on muscles all over the body, others can be used to target specific problem areas.
The main options are:
Massagers also vary in the massage style or technique they use. For example, Shiatsu massagers use a deep-kneading technique to work and soothe your muscles, while massage guns rely on percussion therapy to send pulses deep into the muscle tissue. Some products use vibrations of differing intensity to target muscle groups around your body, while others use electronic muscle stimulation (EMS) to massage sore muscles and boost circulation.
Which massager is right for you? Once you've decided what type of massager you want, it's time to compare a range of suitable products to find one that ticks all the right boxes for you. You'll need to consider the following factors:
Your first step in choosing a massager is deciding which muscle groups you want to target. Are you looking for something to soothe aching and tired feet after a long day at work? Are you searching for something to relieve nagging back pain? Or maybe you want a massage gun to help with post-workout recovery? Once you're clear on exactly why you need a massager, you can then start comparing suitable products.
The style of massage you want will vary depending on the area of the body you're targeting, your needs (e.g. sports recovery vs a relaxing massage at the end of the day) and even your own tolerance for discomfort. For example, if you've got a stiff back, you may decide that a Shiatsu massager is best. If you're an athlete looking for something to aid your recovery after a big event, you may decide that a percussion-style massage gun is a more suitable choice.
You can pick up a handheld massager for as little as $10, with massage gun prices ranging from approximately $50 to $750 or more. Many foot massagers and spas fall in the $50–$200 price range, but there are more expensive options available. And if you're shopping for a back massager, you can generally expect to pay somewhere in the ballpark of $50–$250, but again there are pricier options too.
Does the massager run on battery power? If so, what sort of batteries does it take and how much use will you get out of them before they need to be replaced or recharged?
If it runs on 240V power, is the power cord long enough for easy and convenient use?
Next, check how easy the massager is to set up and use straight out of the box. Is it simple to switch between attachments? Does it have a timer so you can set your desired massage time (or so it won't keep going for longer than needed if you nod off)? Are the controls straightforward? Is it portable enough to take with you if required? Does it allow you to save your favourite settings?
Check how much you can adjust the machine to suit your massage needs and preferences. Are there multiple speed and intensity settings so you can choose a firm or gentle massage? Can you use different massage styles or attachments to target different muscle groups?
If you get the opportunity to try a product before you buy, seize it with both hands. This will give you a chance to test whether the massager is comfortable to use, whether it reaches the muscles you want to target and whether it causes you any discomfort or pain.
If you're buying a massage gun, check how many different massage head attachments come with the product. These may include tools for massaging sensitive areas, targeting large or small muscle groups or zeroing in on trigger points.
Does the product offer massage functionality only or does it also include one or more heating elements to help relax and soothe muscles?
This won't be a consideration for all buyers. But if you want to use a massage gun somewhere quiet, such as the office, the noise level is a factor you'll need to take into account.
Check the length of the manufacturer's warranty that comes with the massager and read the fine print to find out what's covered.
There are a few other factors you should consider before you start shopping for a massager:
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