Cheap Massage Chairs in 2023: [Comprehensive Review]

Tell us if this is you: you’re stressed or recovering from an injury, so you’re considering a massage subscription.

At about $100 each month and around $2500 per year, you could just instead buy (invest in) an affordable massage chair that can last you for years!

Take my word for it…

I spent days researching and testing the best cheap massage chair models starting in 2019 with ongoing Tests in 2022.

I tried many models personally, and I’ve compiled a list for you.

I  love lists and comparisons and want to present my research in this format!

First, I’ll start off by comparing the best 5 budget massage chairs.

I am also will provide some alternatives.

And if you want a truly budget massage chair, I have 3 extra models under $1000 reviewed for you!

Here is a preview of what’s coming…

Many users rave about a few models such as Infinity 8500, but I think the Kahuna 6800 is better if you on a set budget.

The Infinity 8500 can be compared to the Kahuna 7300, so I included a brief comparison between these two models down below.

After that, only a few important questions were answered and a conclusion.

I want you to think of this guide as a summary of all the best affordable massage chair models.

If you are looking for the top-of-the-line, best in the world models, read my guide on the world’s top massage chairs.

5 Affordable Massage Chairs You Can Buy on Sale Now (Buying Guide)

My #1 Pick and the best massaging recliner for you are right below.

Let’s start with the first option…

1. Kahuna LM-6800 Shiatsu Full-Body Massage Chair

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I tried the Kahuna LM-6800, and its best feature is the hybrid track design because the S-track follows the anatomical spine curvature while the L-track offers a great glute and thigh massage.

With its space-saving design and pivoting chair, the Zero-G seating is another perk for this affordable price.

But in fact, the Kahuna 6800 boasts three Zero-G positions, which is on par with more expensive massage chairs.

Another feature thanks to which we got a great massage is the 3D body scanning technique thanks to which all our pressure points were reached.

Surprisingly, the Kahuna offers a manual adjustment of the massage rollers, which is great if the automatic machinery misses a sore spot.

For a cost-saving chair, the Kahuna boasts whole-body air massage with 36 airbags, along with various massage techniques, such as Kneading, Tapping, Kneading & Tapping, Rolling massage, and more advanced.

Plus, there’s a zoned massage option to massage a fixed spot, the exquisite Yoga stretch option, and calf and foot massage.

The back and calf therapy is another plus for the massage chair price range, though you can’t control the temperature.

Another downside is that you can’t change the massage timer, but that’s not a deal-breaker.

Summary: The Kahuna LM-6800 shiatsu recliner is a truly therapeutic chair, with plenty of high-end options.

2. OS-4000 Zero Gravity Heated Reclining Massage Chair

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We tested this chair too, and it’s a definite contender to the Kahuna 6800.

There are a few similar characteristics, such as the body scan system, the air pressure massage, and the manual mode.

On the other hand, there are some differences: this chair only has an S-track, 2 zero-gravity positions (which is still a lot for a budget model), and just lumbar heat.

However, that’s not to say there’s anything specifically wrong with these features, just that the Kahuna offers more options.

We liked the PU covering for the seating though because that increases the overall durability of the chair.

There are 6 built-in programs, hips, and lumbar squeeze, 5 intensity levels, and seat vibration massage.

Conversely, the remote definitely has a learning curve, and the chair is not comfortable to use as a leisure massage recliner without the massage.

Summary: The OS-4000 massage chair offers a decent massage, but there are no exceptional features.

3. Ideal Massage

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This affordable massage chair can be considered truly ideal, at least because it’s a budget model that offers a Shiatsu massage.

However, it’s a heavy item with default curb-side delivery, so you might want to consider paying extra for the white glove delivery.

Just like the Kahuna 6800, it sports 3 modes of zero-g seating and the advanced Shiatsu technique.

The other three techniques available are Kneading, Rolling and Vibrating, plus there’s lumbar therapy – so no foot and calf heat available.

The 3-year warranty and 10-day return policy are good, but there’s a 20% restocking fee.

With a decent massage quality offered by the air massage and vibrating chair, the 30-minute massage length is quite good too.

However, the arm massage seems too gentle.

On the other hand, you will have to assemble the chair yourself, even though that’s quite easy.

Another disadvantage is the lack of options, with no tapping, percussion, or stretching.

Besides, you can’t manually control your leg adjustment, there’s no feet massage, and the machine is a bit noisy.

Summary: The Ideal Massage Shiatsu Zero gravity massage chair is ideal, but it doesn’t offer many additional options.

4. Kahuna SM 7300 With SL-Track Full Body

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The Kahuna 7300 has some similarities with the Kahuna 6800, starting with the SL track design that offers many therapeutic massage benefits.

However, the six-roller system is an upgrade, offering more massage modes and a soothing, life-like human touch massage experience.

This model also boasts a 3D body scan feature for locating all pressure points, along with the manual adjustment option for the rollers and massage area width.

The 7300 has similar massage techniques to the 6800 model: the only difference is that it boasts Knocking instead of Rolling.

But you also get the advanced Shiatsu technique and the relaxing Yoga Stretch.

The Zone massage mode is another similarity, but the timer is adjustable with this model. Another advantage of this model is that it has various massage modes for different people: Dynamic Sports, Golfer, Office Person, and Senior, which you can easily customize.

Conversely, the 7300 model provides soothing heat (using a heating element) just for the lumbar area, and just one level of zero-gravity.

Besides, there are just 18 airbags, as opposed to 36 for the Kahuna 6800.

On the other hand, it includes user-friendly benefits like the removable seat cover, extendable ottoman, and space-saving technology.

Summary: The Kahuna LM-7300 offers a real-life massage, though it doesn’t have outstanding features.

5. Titan Pro Alpha Full Body

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The new arm design of the Titan Pro Alpha is a definite advantage: you just have to slide your arms into the sleeves, and you get a decent massage due to built-in airbags.

Even if it has 28 airbags, fewer than the Kahuna-6800, this is still more than other budget models offer.

The L-track design is great for a comprehensive, neck to back to buttocks massage, though the Kahuna’s 6800 hybrid track is better.

Although the Titan Pro Alpha has a space-saving design, it only comes with four built-in massage techniques: Kneading, Tapping, Kneading & Tapping plus Shiatsu.

There are 2 zero gravity positions, fewer than the Kahuna 6800 offers, but still pretty decent.

The dual-action foot rollers offer a great massage, and this chair comes with two advantages: Bluetooth speaker connection and memory function. Besides, it’s pretty quiet when compared to the Ideal Massage Shiatsu Chair.

Other good features are the adjustable shoulders, plus the back pad pillow to adjust the massage intensity that’s otherwise quite difficult to change for deep-tissue L-track massage chairs.

This chair also boasts a computer body scan system and 6 built-in massage programs: Express, Wholesome, Classic, Oriental, Swedish, and Chiro.

With manual massage mode and side panel control, this chair is easy to operate. However, the remote has a learning curve.

Read more about Titan massage chairs here.

Summary: The Titan Pro Alpha is a good chair for therapeutic purposes, although it doesn’t offer many built-in techniques.

Other Titan Top-Budget Models Under 2000$

If you like me and love the Titan brand, here are a few more electric massage chairs below.

Titan TI-7700 Chair

The Titan TI-7700 has some amazing features, particularly the squeezing technique that we loved on our feet, legs, and arms.

We could even adjust the massage intensity, and raise our legs when the chair is reclined.

On the other hand, we’re not huge fans of the shoulder airbags because they tend to make broad-shouldered people quite crammed.

Otherwise, we like the foot & calf massagers, plus the hip and seat vibration that’s really therapeutic.

Other therapeutic features are the low lumbar heat, zero gravity positioning, and spot feature.

There are 6 built-in massage techniques and 5 programs, including a Senior circuit. Even the remote is easy to use, as opposed to the Titan Pro Alpha.

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TI-Inversion Cloud Comfort

The TI-Inversion aims to offer a true Cloud Comfort, starting with the Italian leather tapestry.

There are also built-in speakers, and the zero-gravity position is great for people who are recovering from surgery.

The vibration massage offered from your upper shoulders to your calves feels invigorating, and you can adjust the three levels of massage systems intensity.

However, the most valuable advantage of this chair is Inversion therapy, which allows you to sit upside down.

A full-recline chair, it can improve your spinal health and reduce back pain and inflammation, plus it comes with a 3-year “rock-solid” warranty.

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TI-Comfort 7

The TI-Comfort 7 is an ergonomic, relaxing robotic massage chair with an S-track that offers a vigorous massage from the neck to the lower spine.

The auto-recline option allows your feet to lift when you’re reclining, plus there’s an auto body scan, 12 airbags for a squeezing-like massage, seat vibration, and zone massage.

There are 6 manual massage modes, including Tapping, Kneading, Tapping and Kneading, Rolling plus Shiatsu, and Swedish.

There are two Comfort and one Relaxing built-in program, the remote is easy to use, plus there’s a remote holder pocket on the side.

Titan Massage Chair TP-Pro 8300

The best features of this chair are the lack of shoulder restrictions and the built-in shoulder program, though it has an advanced massage technology, that includes zero-G and outer shoulder massage.

Some good features include computer body scan, foot-and-calf massage, S-track design, 2 stages of zero gravity, and air massager with fewer cells at a bigger volume.

The arm air massage is quite vigorous; there is an auto-recline and leg extension, plus a rare LED chromotherapy lighting for affordable massage chairs.

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Best 3 Budget-Friendly Massage Chairs Under 1000$

The reclining chairs below are for sale at really affordable prices, so read along.

6. iJoy Active 2.0 Perfect Fit Massage Chair

One of the best features of this massage chair is its massage techniques that can provide stress relief and improve circulation.

Orbit and Glide especially feel like the movements of actual massage therapists, while the patented FlexGlide technology makes the massage quite smooth, with no pinches.

Although it doesn’t have zero-gravity, the Active 2.0 offers a maximum 180ᵒ incline to decrease spinal pressure.

There are three built-in programs, for the whole back, neck, shoulders, and lower back.

The design is accessible, featuring a head pillow and foot massager.

The downside, apart from the few options and no zero-G, is that this chair can only support petite users.

Summary: The iJoy Active 2.0 is the perfect relaxation chair, though it only has the basic features.

7. BestMassage EC-06C

With an S-Track design, slightly heated rollers, and neck massage function, this chair offers a good massage. The automatic body scan isn’t extremely accurate, though it’s not horrible.

There are quite a few options with this chair, including four massage techniques and three auto-massage programs at different intensities. The Shiatsu massage provides by far the best massage, but the air massage mode comes at a close second, thanks to its 30 first-generation airbags.

The calf-and-foot massage is weirdly amazing for a stretched foot even if there are no rollers used for it, just the air pressure. Conversely, the vibration massage is unpleasantly intense, and the chair is particularly noisy when in this mode.

A good surprise is the lumbar and foot heat, even if you can’t adjust the temperature or can only activate the heat for both areas simultaneously. Other great features are the extendable ottoman and the easy-to-use control panel, but the chair is designed with petite users in mind.

8. Real Relax Zero Gravity Full Body

The worst feature of the Real Relax Zero Gravity is the 8 built-in massage points in the backrest which might not massage your pressure points. However, the chair has 50 airbags throughout the chair which inflate and deflate in turns for a comfortable massage.

There’s a zero-gravity feature too, foot roller and heat therapy for the lower back and feet, while the pulsed arm massage feels great. This portable massaging recliner has two casters to move it around with ease, and a session lasts up to 30 minutes. There are 4 built-in programs, apart from seat vibration. However, you can’t adjust the speed and intensity of your massage, though you can adjust the foot rollers.

The black leather from which the chair is made is low-maintenance, and the advanced HD VFD display is easy to use.

On the other hand, extendable footrests can’t accommodate tall users.

Summary: This model offers a decent massage if your anatomy happens to fit the fixed points.

9. Human Touch WholeBody 7.1 Full Body Chair

Why you should buy it: Human Touch has an exclusive massage chair that offers the ultimate massage in a quiet setting. Who it’s for: People who don’t want to be disturbed while getting a massage. Human Touch has built a massager that’s specifically built to soothe and relax while working hard to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation.

The chair is created with an ergonomic design for comfortable and streamlined use, and its body heat heaters ensure you’re always toasty no matter how long your massage lasts. This chair also has several options to choose from. While many models have vibration modes and motorized settings, Human Touch has integrated a soothing pulsation option to lull you into a warm trance.

A partnership with Jetsetter Hotel Group has allowed Human Touch to connect the product to a whole host of hotels, and it’s working with nearly every major brand in the world to offer this special technology to their guests.

Some of the chairs for well-known brands that are not being reviewed here, but have some good models you may want to look into are: Brookstone massage chairs, Human Touch Massage Chairs

Kahuna SM 7300 vs. Infinity IT-8500

We already talked about the Kahuna SM 7300 above, so let’s see how it compares to the Infinity IT-8500, another top choice with a lower price tag.

A first difference is that the Infinity IT-8500 offers inversion therapy to lengthen your spine and relieve pain thanks to the Tru-Grip V Stretch.

Although they are both zero gravity massage chairs, the Infinity IT-8500 features two positions of zero gravity to decompress and improve your circulation.

The waist twist with 3 speeds is another great program that stretches your lower back and hips, decreasing tensions.

The optical body scanning technology used for the Infinity 8500 is similar to that of the Kahuna 7300, though some would say it’s more accurate.

The quad-style massage roller feels very realistic, with three levels for the width and 6speed levels.

On the other hand, the 30-inch S massage track is not as good as Kahuna’s hybrid SL-track design, although it can accommodate people of different heights.

With more airbags than the Kahuna that is strategically built-in in the chair, the compression massage feels great, offering a truly deep tissue massage.

Besides, just like the 7300 Kahuna, the Infinity massage chair offers lumbar heat and good foot massage, but it features one extra massage technique apart from the five they have in common: the Synchronic style that massages you on the beat of your favorite tunes.

Because yes, the Infinity-8500 also includes an MP3 player and a built-in sound system!

However, the 4 built-in massage types with the Infinity can be considered less personal than the ones offered by Kahuna 7300, which fit different categories of people.

The spot massage is another similarity, but the Kahuna 7300 has the exquisite Yoga Stretch.

With that in mind, we feel that the Infinity 8500 is hands-down a better chair.

While the Kahuna boasts the great Yoga Stretch and the SL-track, the Infinity 8500 has better features for therapeutic purposes, like the inversion therapy, one extra zero-G position, waist twist, and increased number of airbags.

Besides, the Synchronic style and built-in music system are user-friendly additions.

What Massage Chair is Best for Me?

The answer to which budget cheap massage chair is the best depends on various factors, but the two most important are purpose and budget.

Check our reviews above to see which models can fit your budget, then consider your purpose.

If you want a massage chair for therapeutic purposes and post-surgery healing, make sure it has at least one zero-gravity seating option.

Full-body Shiatsu recliners provide the best for sore muscles, while those with a full-body stretch are great for relaxation.

If you want a great chair to unwind after a hard day at work, you don’t need a lot of massage options, techniques, or functions – even the basic chairs in this review can provide a decent massage.

If you’re very particular about your needs, consider a chair with a memory function or with very customizable options.

This is also a great choice if there are more people in your household that will use the massage chair.

Where to Buy / Good Massage Chair Price & Stores

One option would be to visit the official website where these chairs are retailed, especially considering you can choose between various delivery and shipping options.

You can also select a warranty or can use gift cards for your power recliner.

Otherwise, you can try trustworthy websites like Amazon, which has a fast delivery system, good shipping rates and you can pay with your credit card.

Amazon is also a good choice in terms of returning options.

Real Relax Massage Chair

If you’re the type of person who will spend a lot of time reclining on a massage chair at the salon or spa, then this chair has your name all over it. It’s comfortable, affordable, and comes with a strong warranty. The RR massaging chair is easy to maneuver and has a durable and attractive design, making it an attractive option for consumers who are looking for a nice massaging chair for home or office. The unit is mounted on a sturdy base with four legs for an attractive and stable setup. Our RR massaging chair review included an assessment of the manufacturer’s claims as well as our own experience with the chair. It’s easy to move around, which can help you avoid excess fatigue and stiffness when you first begin using the chair. Our review unit had no issues with adjustment, even for people with bad backs.

If your home office is smaller, or you don’t want the headrest to go as far back as that model you can fold back the seat. We did this and found that the seat went far enough back that the armrests were slightly off-center. This meant that if we were sitting straight up, the armrests were off-center, and the entire chair was even more uncomfortable. The chair was not as comfortable for sitting like this, so you may want to consider folding the chair back if you use it for extended periods of time. The RR also includes a very long power cord, which can make it a bit trickier to reach under decks, or in cramped rooms. The length of the cord does allow you to position the Real Relax chair with plenty of room for getting a good fit between your computer and your back.

Is it Safe to Sleep in a Massage Chair?

The first question I ask anyone reading this is, “Would you sleep in a massage chair?” Yes, some massage chairs do offer sleep options. These sit-down models recline so that the top-line massagers can continue to work while the user rests in the comfort of a soft, padded recliner. However, these devices are no substitute for a mattress or real bed, and I don’t recommend you spend too much time in one. Though massage chairs are not ideal for sleeping, I always caution clients that if a mattress or bed is made of real memory foam and latex materials, they are actually quite safe for prolonged, extended use. Unfortunately, you cannot safely use these mattress or bed materials for extended periods of time (inhaling them for example) when you are lying down in the massage chair.

However, if you use your massage chair to get along, therapeutic massage, and then sleep in it for the night, you might be at risk. If you use a sleep mask, earplugs, or a blanket, it might not be a problem, but a firm mattress with memory foam and latex material is too much for the massaging parts of the chair to handle. You can wear an extra layer of clothing, but I would not do that since these types of materials are known to be high.

Massage Chair the Brick

Because, that’s right, instead of just checking out the festive surroundings, this head office is going to give you some time to reflect and meditate on your work-life balance. The massages come with a themed menu to get you in the mood. If you want a yoga experience with cheesy pasta instead, all you have to do is ask for it. Or it’s always your prerogative if you choose to be “high maintenance” and just have a face and scalp massage instead. It’s hard to feel down and purposeless during the festive season. Well, up until that jingle bell sound starts playing in your head and you start yearning for a cold beverage with that twangy Christmas spirit flavor. Do something about it and head to this cocktail bar. Happy hour is 10:30 to 2:30 PM every day this week.

Is Sitting in a Massage Chair Good for You?

It’s surprisingly hard to find a massaging chair that won’t make you motion sick. Your body was made to be upright, facing forward. Yet from the day you first sit in your office chair, you’re subject to a strange system of medieval torture: Your head is turned one way, your spine bent forward, while your ass is turned the other way. The result? You always feel like you’re about to throw up or pass out.

Don’t be alarmed. It’s completely normal. A 2008 study from the University of California, Los Angeles, found that up to 90 percent of the population experience sensory disturbances when seated in front of a computer. Other studies suggest that people become motion sick as soon as their eyes are put at 20 degrees from horizontal, especially if they’re in a reclining chair. The upshot? Sitting in a massage chair, if you get one, isn’t going to help you.

Does Massage Chair Really Work?

Many of you who are quite worried about the implications of undergoing a massage chair have now expanded your search for answers and are actually wondering whether you should be doing it at all. There’s a common misconception that a massage chair will make you dependent on the machine and can make you do all your household chores with ease. This is not true and there are a couple of aspects that you must consider before investing in a massage chair.

These four features are the ones that must be borne in mind and if you follow them, you will be able to choose the ideal massage chair for you and avoid any negative effect it might have on you. Is The Massage Chair Accurate? When purchasing a massage chair, it’s absolutely essential to understand that the machine is not perfect.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Difference Between Cheap and Expensive Massage Chairs?

Cheap and expensive massage chairs differ significantly in terms of design, features, and overall quality. These disparities stem from variations in materials, technology, and craftsmanship, which ultimately impact the massage experience, durability, and long-term satisfaction of the user.

1. Materials and Build Quality: Cheap massage chairs typically use lower-grade materials and less attention to detail in their construction. These chairs may have thinner padding, less robust frames, and cheaper upholstery materials. In contrast, expensive massage chairs prioritize high-quality materials, ensuring better comfort and durability. Premium models often employ top-notch leather or synthetic leather, superior cushioning, and reinforced frames to withstand daily use.
2. Massage Techniques and Technology: Expensive massage chairs feature advanced massage technology, such as 3D or 4D rollers, airbags, and precise sensors. These chairs can mimic a wide range of human massage techniques, offering more customization and precision in targeting specific muscle groups and addressing individual preferences. Cheap alternatives usually offer a limited selection of basic massage techniques, providing a less sophisticated and effective massage experience.
3. Customization and Adjustability: High-end massage chairs excel in customization options. Users can adjust the intensity, speed, and focus of the massage to their liking. They often come with multiple pre-set programs for different massage types, while cheaper models offer fewer customization possibilities and may have a one-size-fits-all approach, which may not cater to the user’s unique needs.
4. Durability and Longevity: Expensive massage chairs are built to last, with premium components that endure daily use over many years. Cheap alternatives may suffer from premature wear and tear, leading to reduced lifespan and performance degradation over time. Investing in an expensive massage chair often means a longer-lasting and more reliable product.
5. Heat Therapy and Additional Features: High-end massage chairs often include heat therapy features, which can enhance the massage experience by promoting relaxation and relieving muscle tension. Cheaper models may lack such features, limiting their ability to provide a comprehensive and therapeutic massage.
6. Warranty and Customer Support: Manufacturers of expensive massage chairs typically offer longer and more comprehensive warranties, reflecting their confidence in the product’s durability and performance. In contrast, cheap massage chairs often come with limited warranties and may lack dedicated customer support, leaving users with fewer options for assistance in case of issues.
7. Aesthetics and Design: Expensive massage chairs often feature sleek and stylish designs that blend seamlessly with modern home decor. Cheaper models may have a less appealing appearance, potentially clashing with the overall aesthetics of a room.

In summary, the difference between cheap and expensive massage chairs is profound, encompassing factors like build quality, technology, customization, durability, and overall value. While cheaper models may serve as a budget-friendly option, they typically sacrifice advanced features, longevity, and the overall quality of the massage experience. In contrast, investing in a high-end massage chair often pays off in terms of superior comfort, customization, and durability, ultimately providing a more satisfying and therapeutic massage experience for users.

Final Words:  Cheap Massage Chair Review Advice

I reviewed a lot of chairs in this article, but we couldn’t help ourselves: I wanted you to have the complete picture so you can compare, contrast, and make the best choice.

Remember, most of the cheaper chairs are not made in the United States (USA) or Japan. Most chairs are made in China!

But, here’s the bottom line: the Kahuna LM 6800 is a premium robotic massage chair, with top features that recommend it for therapeutic purposes, including the SL-track design, 3 zero-G seating, comprehensive air massage, plus lumbar and feet heat therapy.

The other chairs are reliable too, though they have more important disadvantages.

In terms of the under $1000 category, all the chairs there are Ok at best and offer basic massage functions.

The iJoy Active 2.0 is the best in this category, with the only disadvantage that it can only fit petite users.

Otherwise, it’s more accurate and offers better massages than the other two chairs, even if it doesn’t have the zero-G option.

And when it comes to a comparison between the Kahuna 7300 and the Infinity 8500, the latter is a better alternative because of multiple therapeutic functions.

But that’s just our point of view. Let me know what’s in your opinion is one of the top-rated cheap massage chairs out there and why?