5 days ago
4
The best massagers shouldn't feel like a luxury reserved for special occasions. Getting some tension out of your shoulders should be as accessible as your morning coffee. After all, between work, workouts, and the existential crisis that is life, who isn't carrying muscle tension somewhere? I've dedicated countless hours to trying (almost) every type of massage tool out there. Testing these contraptions might sound like the dream gig, but it's not all bliss. Some felt like having a personal therapist at my disposal. Others like they were designed to tenderize meat. A few even led me to question the very choices that brought me to this moment.
The good news? I've rounded up the best massagers for all bodies and budgets. These options deliver on their promises to soothe, stimulate, and shiatsu. For more wellness recommendations, read our guides to the Best Theraguns and Therabody Tools, Best Posture Correctors, and Everything You Need for Your Yoga Practice.
I spent eight months (and counting) testing dozens of massagers across a variety of categories, including (but not limited to) percussive therapy guns, foot massagers, and compression goggles.
To assess performance in everyday situations, I incorporated them into regular routines: post-workout recovery, desk-bound workdays, and nighttime wind-downs. I evaluated each device based on build quality, ease of use, and overall value. This involved checking motor strength and consistency, battery life (if applicable), the functionality of extra features, and how effectively each massager targets specific muscle groups. I also considered individual body types and sensitivities.
Lastly, I prioritized long-term reliability and customer support. This meant reviewing warranty policies, user reviews, and brand transparency.
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