Adam holds a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Linguistics, and creative writing has always been his greatest passion. For more than 25 years he's been working for several well-known automobile and travel magazines as an editor and expert consultant, but when Adam started his writing path here, at WisePick, it turned out that he's capable of writing practically anything about everything.
Initially being an engineering specialist, Tom has never stopped learning and acquiring other knowledge and skills. Now he’s involved in technical support for a well-known household appliances manufacturer, so no wonder he knows everything about almost everything you buy for your home.
Last updated: July 14, 2021
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A massage chair is a great way to unwind from the stresses of the day. It can relieve aches and pains, stretch tight muscles and improve your posture.
Our team of researchers has reviewed over 30 massage chairs to assess functionality and how they perform for the average user. We’ve created a list of our top picks and our editor’s choice, the Kahuna Massage Chair LM-6800 offers a superb balance of features and aesthetics to complement your home decor. However, we’ve also ranked other massage chairs at different price points to be sure we provide a top pick for everyone.
Our team deliberated for hours to find the best massage chair under $2,000. We’ve assessed the functionality and performance of each chair to ensure that you have complete confidence in your purchase. First and foremost, we looked at the massage programs and functions, which affect the style and intensity of the massage you’ll receive when you’re sitting in the chair. We’ve also evaluated the impact of zero gravity modes, heating functions and foot rest extensions. Finally, we evaluated the warranty options and overall dimensions. We’ve presented our findings in a simple overview table and a list of detailed reviews. However, we’ve also included a buying guide to support you as you make your final purchase decision.
"A comfortable massage chair featuring 5 body-massage functions, 3 different zero gravity seating options, computerized body scan technology and 3 levels of speed and pressure adjustments."
"An excellent massage chair featuring 5 body-massage functions, three-stage gravity, computerized body scanning and 3 levels of speed and airbag density control."
"A massage chair featuring 5 body-massage functions, full body air massage system, computerized body scan technology and 3 levels of airbag intensity control."
"A massage chair featuring 4 automatic programs, 2 airbag intensity levels, 3 true zero gravity positions, automatic shoulder and a full back scan program."
"A massage chair featuring 6 body-massage functions, 2 stages of zero gravity, true ergonomic S-Track system, wireless controller and three kinds of width adjustable settings."
Other features: 5 body-massage programs, 3 zero gravity positions, computerized body scan technology, 4-rollers with L-track massage system, 3 levels of speed and pressure adjustments, built-in castor
Kahuna is a well-known manufacturer of massage chairs that are ideally suited for taller users. Many massage chairs can accommodate users up to 6’ tall, but many Kahuna chairs are designed for 6’4” and some even 6’5”. Kahuna also has a “Yoga Body Stretch” feature to give the user a gentle and comfortable workout. The LM-6800 may be the best zero gravity massage chair under $2,000 and it’s our Editor’s choice for this list. We loved the ultra-long massage track, the user gets a great back massage, but their glutes and thighs also get a relaxing massage experience.
There are 3 different zero gravity seating options to improve the massage quality for each user. The rollers are adjusted using a built-in computer that scans the body and makes adjustments automatically. But, if the user wants to fine tune their experience they can also make manual adjustments too. The Kahuna LM-6800 has an easy to use remote that makes fine adjustments a breeze.
The LM-6800 utilizes space saving technology to reduce the overall footprint of the chair. This massage chair pivots on its base as the chair is reclined so you don’t need an extra foot or two of space around the chair. This massage chair has plenty of options, the air massage is acceptable, but the roller options are excellent, the advanced Shiatsu technique is a stand-out feature. The user can interrupt the massage program at any time and place the focus of the rollers in a specific spot to improve the experience.
What are our favorite features?
Users love the “Yoga Body Stretch” because it offers fast pain relief much like a chiropractic adjustment.
The advanced roller massage options are fantastic.
What could be better?
The backheat option covers most but not all of the back.
Some users have reported that the air massage is not as good as other models on our list.
Other features: three-stage zero gravity, computerized body scanning, 2nd generation L-track massage system, deep tissue massage and full-body stretching, three levels of speed and airbag density control
The RELAXONCHAIR MK-CLASSIC is the premium pick on our list and it certainly is a luxurious massage chair. This chair has 3 zero gravity positions, a total of 42 airbags with full shoulder adjustment and it can support up to 400 lbs. The chair is well built, sturdy and made from eco-friendly materials. Essentially, this is a shiatsu massage chair, there are 7 pre-set programs and the user can create their own programs to massage select areas. There are 2 heating pads located at the lower back region and this enhances the massage experience for users that have lower back pain.
The MK-CLASSIC has a 50” long L-track roller system to massage from the base of the skull right down the body to the base of the buttocks. A built-in body scanner will help the user to fine tune the massage to meet their individual needs automatically. There are 5 different massage techniques to choose from, 3 speed levels and 3 airbag intensity control settings.
One of the major drawbacks to a large massage chair is the assembly process after delivery. However, this isn’t a problem with the RELAXONCHAIR MK-CLASSIC because it arrives fully assembled and ready to use.
Why did it make our list?
This chair looks great and it’s available in grey or brown.
The RELAXONCHAIR MK-CLASSIC comes fully assembled.
Users enjoy the RELAXONCHAIR customer service and support.
What is not ideal about it?
Users have reported that the high settings are very intense.
This is a high end massage chair with a matching price tag.
The Real Relax 2020 Favor-03 Massage Chair is a zero gravity massage chair under $2,000 with 4 preset massaging options controlled via simple wired remote control. The user chooses between 3 different “strong”, “relaxing” and “sleep” modes that determine the relative strength of the massage experience. These settings can be adjusted manually if the user wants to focus on certain areas where they require some extra special attention.
This massage chair has 8 fixed rollers and the massaging track extends from the neck and shoulders right down to the calf muscles. The shiatsu massage action is circular to relieve stress and tension in the muscles. There are 50 airbags in total, 4 at the shoulders, 8 around the arms, 24 around the legs and the rest are position around the hips. These airbags inflate and deflate gently to simulate the massage of a therapist. The firm and gentle compression and subsequent release ease the muscles and release tension.
The Real Relax 2020 Favor-03 Massage Chair also has 3 zero gravity settings to evenly distribute the weight in the chair. This allows the user to settle in and almost float as the massage chair gets to work. The legs are elevated above the heart to reduce the stress on the spine and improve circulation for the duration of the massage. This intensifies the experience and makes the entire process more effective and relaxing.
What are our favorite features?
Users report that this massage chair is easy to move around their home.
What could be better?
Some users find the leg massage settings too strong.
Other features: L-Track massage system, full body air massage system, computerized body scanning system, full size remote controller, 3 levels of airbag intensity control
The RELAXONCHAIR MK-II Plus is an upgraded variant on the well regarded Mk-II massage chair. The S-track system has been replaced with the new L-track roller technology to provide a deep tissue massage from the base of the neck right down to the buttock area. This system uses dual rollers and it’s an ideal massaging solution for users with tight glute muscle groups and severe back pain. The spinal decompression program and stretching function ensures that the user gets an authentic human massage experience.
There are 4 automatic massaging modes to choose from, these are accessed via a remote control system with a larger screen. The remote is easy to navigate, inputting your favorite programs is simple and the system is very user friendly. The chair features built-in sensors to assess the spine length and body shape for each user. A personalized massage can be enjoyed and problems areas can be pinpointed for extra attention. The user is reclined to a 180º angle to reduce tension, improve circulation and this improves the massage experience.
The RELAXONCHAIR MK-II Plus offers a lot and it’s certainly an improvement on the Mk-II. This chair is available in chocolate or charcoal colors and it comes with a 3 year warranty for peace of mind.
Why are we impressed?
Users love the user friendly remote control unit.
This chair offers a lot of functionality at a more modest price.
This massage chair is well-built.
What negatives must you be aware of?
Some users reported that the foot massaging feature was far too strong.
Warranty: 10-year (frame and body), 5-year (electronic parts)
Other features: space saving reclining technology, 5 speed levels & 3 width positions, head massage adjustable size bead belt, foot rolling massage, 3D back scanning system, built-in heat lower back, remote control
The Ideal Massage 2017 Massage Chair is a space saving chair that can give the user a head to toe massage from 5-30 minutes long. There are 6 auto and manual settings to choose from, including tapping, kneading, shiatsu, rolling and combinations. There are 3 different speed settings and a choice of 3 width positions available. This chair is a great way to massage the shoulders, arms, calves and even feet with ease.
This massage chair has an L-track rolling system like many other models on the market. But, this system is paired with a set of 4 muted massage hands that are wheel driven for an authentic massage experience. A back scanning system allows the chair to select the ideal massage settings to meet your needs. The remote control is user-friendly with a handy lock and pause feature to give the user ultimate control over their massage experience.
The chair is designed to save space when reclining to reduce the overall footprint. So the user only needs to position the chair 3” from a wall making this a viable option for smaller homes.
What makes it special?
This chair is available in Black, Beige and Red colors.
This massage chair has a 5-year warranty on electronic parts.
The chair also has a 10 year warranty on the metal frame.
What cons did we find?
This chair lacks some features of the 2020 updated model but it is cheaper
Warranty: 10-year (frame and body), 5-year (electronic parts)
Other features: L-Track massage system, real humanized massage hands with 3D intelligent detect, 2 airbag intensity levels, 3 true zero gravity positions, automatic shoulder and a full back scan program
This is a luxurious shiatsu massage chair that delivers maximum comfort for a great massage experience. The chair massage position can be adjusted vertically from the lower back right up to the nape of the neck. The massage system uses 4 wheels to deliver an authentic real human massage experience that extends a full 45” in length thanks to the L-track system. There are 16 massage combinations to select including 4 new programs for this chair, such as: tapping, kneading and a kneading and tapping combination.
The Bhealth Massage Chair may be the best zero gravity massage chair under $2,000 that offers a true 3 position setting to maximize the users comfort. When the chair starts up the automatic scan program initiates to find the ideal massage setting that suits the user’s needs. It’s important to get an accurate massage to improve the user’s health and posture. This chair will provide a deep massage for key areas, such as the: neck, shoulders, waist, calves, thighs, buttocks and even the feet.
An air massager is included with 2 distinct intensity levels that offer a very different massaging experience. There are 8 airbags in the calf rest, 8 in the foot rest, and 12 in the arm rest. When combined with the L-track rollers for the back it’s possible to get that deep tissue massage that you’ve been looking for at home.
Why are we impressed?
Some users have reported that this chair delivers a great neck and shoulder massage.
This chair is available in red, black, beige and dark brown colors.
A 5-year limited warranty is supplied on electronic components.
The steel frame has a 10 year limited warranty.
What negatives must you be aware of?
Some users found that the foot massage was too intense.
Other features: 2 stages of zero gravity, true ergonomic S-Track system, computer body scan, wireless controller, three kinds of width adjustable settings
The Osaki OS-4000 is a solid choice for taller users because it can accomodate people up to 6’4” tall. This massage chair has a S-track system where the massage rollers can move from the tailbone right up to neck without wasting any pressure. This delivers an even and consistent massage that delivers the maximum amount of comfort to the back. An in-built body scanner will detect the size and body shape of the user and adjust the massage chair to the ideal settings automatically.
This chair has a 2 stage zero G setting inspired by NASA astronaut training. The user is reclined back into a virtually neutral position by a simple touch on the remote control unit. This position is key because it reduces the back pressure, improves the blood circulation and prepares the body for a deeper and healthier massage. When the muscle groups are fully relaxed the massage is far more effective and the results more immediate.
The Osaki OS-4000 has 48 airbags installed to create varying levels of pressure on the shoulders, arms, calves and feet. The intensity of the airbag massage can be adjusted to get the ideal massage experience that you need. The lower back area a pair of heating modules delivers some much needed warmth for users suffering from back pain. A pair of massaging plates delivers a gentle vibration for users at their thighs for superior relaxation.
Why are we impressed?
Users enjoy the range of speed and intensity provided.
This massage chair offers a great deal for a reasonable price.
What negatives must you be aware of?
Users have reported that this chair is tricky to assemble.
This massage chair uses an advanced 3D massaging system to deliver a human like deep massage experience for the user. The chair has a dual head roller that can travel in three directions, they are: up and down, in and out, and left and right. There are 3 nodes that can be customized to deliver a tailored deep massage where the user needs it most.
The Sinoluck 3D Robot Hand Massage Chair has zero G functionality at the touch of a button. The user is lowered into a position where their feet are elevated above their heart and head. This relieves pressure on the vertebrae, back pain is reduced and the blood circulation is increased for a healthier massage experience. The S-track massage system uses rollers to deliver a full body massage from the lower back up to the neck.
This massage also features a full air massage system that uses a series of airbags on the arms, shoulders, hips and feet. This provides an authentic human massage that’s ideal for users suffering from chronic pain. The intensity of this massage can be adjusted to deliver the ideal strength to meet the user’s needs. An electric foot massaging unit is included and this can be adjusted up to almost 6” to accommodate different body types.
What do we love it for?
Many users love the authentic human feel delivered by the 3D massaging system.
The remote is easy to use and full body scanning is fast.
What were we disappointed with?
Some users have reported that this is a heavy chair and it can be tricky to assemble
Other features: SL-track Technology&3D Robert Hand, space saving, shoulder width adjustable, 3 levels of airbag massage intensity, foot roller & Bluetooth connective
The Ootori Massage Chair is designed to help people with poor posture and muscular problems. This chair offers a comprehensive massage experience with zero G positioning, 4 roller heads and 15 different program combinations to choose from. The S/L-track structure gives the massaging heads an impressive range of movement for an authentic full body massage. This is ideal to relieve health issues, such as: headaches, muscle tension, stress and aching muscle groups.
The Ootori Massage Chair uses a full body scanner to tailor the massage to the height and body shape of the user. An air cell massage system delivers a very human like massage to the shoulders, hips, back and waist areas for relaxation and pain relief. The chair is well made with a synthetic material cover and built-in heat therapy pads for the lower back. This massage chair can handle up to 440 lbs in weight and Ootori offers a 3 year warranty.
What do we love it for?
Users like the attention to detail and the excellent build quality.
This massage chair is ideal for office workers.
The design is futuristic.
What were we disappointed with?
This is a more premium massage chair with a matching price tag
The BestMassage Massage Chair offers a great deal of functionality at a fairly modest price point. This is the best value pick on our list and we believe that this is the best zero gravity massage chair under $2,000 for those with a more modest budget. The zero G system elevates the legs and places the user in a position that makes them feel weightless. The stress on the spine and lumbar region is reduced and this makes the massage healthier and more effective.
This massage chair has an L-track system; these are rollers that extend the length of the body for a full massage. This feature is typically found on more expensive massage chairs and it’s quite a surprise to find it on a “budget” massage chair. The BestMassage Massage Chair has a full 49” long stroke that extends the massage from the head right down to the thighs. The other parts of the body are massage with a series of airbags and there are foot rollers for the feet.
This chair uses an OPTO sensor system to scan the users body type and create the perfect massage. A heating element is also included to deliver warmth for back pain relief with a heated massage. The massage functions include vibrating, kneading and rolling with pre-set programs that utilize these functions into a full massage. The preset massage functions are: refresh, extend, relax and recover.
What stands out?
Users report that this massage chair is a bargain.
The L-track rollers system is a great addition at this modest price.
A massage chair is a great way to relieve the stresses of the day, but with so many chairs on the market, it can be tricky to choose the best one for your home. So, here we’ve compiled a buying guide with the things to consider, features to look for and answers to some common questions to help you to make your final purchase decision.
What is a massage chair?
If you’re not familiar with a massage chair, it’s a type of chair that you may have seen in an airport lounge or other location and it looks like an oversized armchair. A massage chair is designed to give the user a full body massage tailored to their height and body type. The user can choose to massage their entire body or they can focus the massage in a single problem area. Generally speaking, there are two main types of massage chairs, the first is a basic unit that you sit in and a therapist delivers the massage. The second type is a computer controller automatic massage chair that uses a variety of technologies to massage the user. The focus of this buying guide is the latter and we hope that this information will help you to choose the best massage chair under $2,000.
7 reasons why you should buy a massage chair
A massage chair is a considerable investment and it makes good sense to evaluate your needs before you commit to buy. Let’s take a look at 7 common reasons why people decide to buy a massage chair for their home.
Easing back pain
Anyone suffering from persistent back pain should consider a massage chair as a possible solution. Most modern massage chairs have heating pads or elements that warm up the lower back during the massage. The user is placed in a zero G position which reduces the pressure on the vertebrae and encourages circulation. This increases the effectiveness of the massage and it can relieve back pain and reduce stress.
Improving sleep and rest
Most of us are tense and stressed after a hard working day and this can affect how we sleep and rest. Getting good quality rest is extremely important for health and it helps our bodies to recover from fatigue and resist illnesses. A short relaxation session on a massage chair an hour before bed will help you to relax and get the full benefits from your sleep.
Relieve foot pain
If we are not sitting or in bed, we are on our feet and we can cover many miles in a typical day. Our feet can accumulate a great deal of stress and the health of our feet can affect our entire body. Most of the current crop of massage chairs feature some kind of foot massaging technology. These systems relax the feet, relieve any pain and help you to get back on your feet for the next day.
Improving blood circulation
Every massage chair on our list features a zero G system to place the body in an ideal position for a deep and relaxing massage. This is crucial because it relieves pressure, but it’s also important because it improves blood circulation. When our blood can circulate easily it can reach the muscles and the effectiveness of the massage is significantly improved. Another benefit is improved lymphatic drainage that helps the body to remove toxins and the take up of nutrients from our food intake.
Posture and relaxation
As we go through our daily routine we become tired and fatigued and our posture deteriorates. This is natural, but we need to restore ourselves and prepare ourselves for the next day. If we have a better posture and we are relaxed the tiring effects of a hard day are reduced somewhat. Think of a massage chair session as a mini-vacation for your body and you will be better equipped to handle a busy day.
24/7 massage
There are many locations where you can get a good massage from a therapist. However, they are not typically open 24/7 and this can limit your access to some much needed pain relief or relaxation. Having your own massage chair at home means that you can have any type of massage experience whenever you need it.
Saving money
A professional massage over and over again can become a real drain on your wallet in next to no time. The costs can really add up and when you compare them to the price of a massage chair on our list the choice becomes clear. If you have a massage chair at home, it’s more convenient and you will save money in the medium to long term.
Features to consider when choosing a massage chair under $2000
With so many massage chairs on the market, it may seem overwhelming to choose the best one. Here we’ll explore some of the key features you should consider to narrow down your options.
Massage automatic programs and functions
Many of the chairs have different automatic massage functions and programs. These include kneading, rolling, squeezing, tapping, Shiatsu and Swedish massage.
These programs can affect how the chair massages your body and increases your feeling of relaxation.
Zero gravity mode
Every massage chair on our list is a zero G chair that improves the effectiveness of the massaging experience. When the chair is switched on the legs are raised to a comfortable position above the height of the user’s heart and head. This gives the user a weightless feeling that’s extremely relaxing and it decreases the pressure on the vertebrae. This position also increases the circulation throughout the body to improve the health of the user. Zero gravity is a great feature but it will make the chair more expensive although it can be found on the BestMassage Massage Chair which is our best value pick.
Heating function
Heating is a very useful feature for users suffering from lower back pain. In the past this feature has been an optional extra or a high end feature on more expensive massage chairs. At the sub $2,000 price point we can find premium chairs such as the Relaxonchair MK-Classic with lumbar heating pads. If the user needs heating in other areas of the body the massage chair is likely to be far more expensive than the models shown on our list.
Airbags
Some massage chairs such as the Kahuna Massage Chair LM-6800 have more basic airbag massaging options. Others have advanced programs that use rolling pressure to relax muscles and improve blood circulation. The airbags are often located in areas that are not reached by the built-in S-track or L-track rolling systems.
Foot rest extension
A foot rest extension is essential. The feet must be supported and they should not be touching the ground. If the heels of your feet overshoot the foot rest you will introduce strain and that is counterintuitive. Any taller user will need a foot rest extension to give them the support that they need.
Materials and construction
A massage chair represents a significant investment and it makes good sense to get a durable chair that will last. These are complex pieces of equipment, they have a computer control system, electrical components and a large number of moving mechanical parts. In a complex machine like this, things can go wrong and this is especially true if low quality parts are used. Generally speaking, you get what you pay for and if you spend more you will get a better massage chair. However, all of the massage chairs on our list are durable options that should last for years.
Dimensions and weight
A massage chair is a substantial piece of equipment, it can be large and heavy and this makes it difficult to move. It’s important to get a massage chair that fits your decor and you need a location where it can be used safely. Some chairs such as the Ideal Massage 2017 Massage Chair have a space saving feature that allows the user to slide down and their legs are elevated. Always check the measurements of the massage chair and the location before you make a final purchase.
Weight limit
Many people worry about damaging their massage chair or voiding the warranty due to their weight. Most manufacturers clearly state the weight limit of their massage chairs so it’s easy to check before you buy.
Warranty
Because a massage chair is a complex and expensive product, it makes good sense to study the warranty carefully. Some massage chairs such as the Bhealth Massage Chair have a good warranty but others offer far less. It’s not unusual to see separate warranty periods for the electronic components and the steel frame. Some manufacturers do not offer a warranty for labor and this can really drive up the price of a repair. If the seller offers an extended warranty this can be a good investment in the medium to long term. Always check the warranty carefully before you make a final decision to buy a massage chair and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Other features
Many massage chair features are simply luxury touches that are nice to have, such as MP3 support and USB connectivity. However, there are other features that you really need for a good range of massage options.
Depending on the brand and model of chair, you can expect a massage chair to use 150 to 300 watts of power. This is similar to a computer and far less than many household appliances such as a refrigerator.
Generally, massage chairs are considered to be universally safe, but there are a few people who need to use massage chairs with care. This includes people with broken bones, serious infectious diseases, serious unhealed wounds and circulatory ailments.
You can expect a massage chair to last up to ten years, but the warranty of specific products can provide an indication of expected lifespan.
Our Verdict
As you can see, there are some great massage chair models on the market. From the Real Relax 2020 Favor-03 with a total of 50 airbags and three zero gravity modes to the Relaxonchair MK-Classic that not only comes fully assembled but can support users up to 400 pounds.
However, the stand out as the best massage chair under $2,000 has to be our editor’s choice, the Kahuna Massage Chair LM-6800. This chair can support taller users and features three zero gravity modes, but the Yoga Body Stretch feature and Shiatsu massage ensures a comfortable and gentle workout. Additionally, the chair pivots, so you don’t need additional space to accommodate the LM-6800 in your home.
