Article: What types of massager are there? An overview of every kind
Massagers can be grouped by the part of the body they are built for. The main types are neck massagers, massage cushions, back massagers and massage pads, massage guns, foot massagers, devices for feet and calves, eye massagers and massage tables. If you want to massage your whole body at once, you end up with a massage chair. Which type suits you depends on where the tension sits and how much space you have.
Neck massagers
A neck massager sits around your neck and shoulders like a collar. Rotating massage heads knead the muscles, often with heat. Many models have loops for your hands so you can set the pressure yourself, and some have a battery for use on the sofa or in the office. For people who spend a lot of time at a desk or on their phone, this is the obvious first choice. You will find a selection under neck massagers and a comparison under Neck massagers compared.
Massage cushions
A massage cushion looks like an ordinary cushion, but has circling massage heads inside. You place it behind your neck, against your back or under your calves. That makes it more versatile than a neck massager, but it only massages one spot at a time. Battery models can be used without a cable. The category is under massage cushions. What matters when buying is in the massage cushion buying guide.
Back massagers and massage pads
There are two designs for the back. Smaller devices massage the lower back or lumbar spine in a targeted way. Massage pads and seat pads go on a chair, an armchair or in bed. Depending on the model they work with Shiatsu rollers, vibration or heat and massage the whole back. You will find both under back massagers and massage pads. Whether a pad is enough or a chair is the better choice is answered in Buying an electric back massager.
Massage guns
A massage gun works with rapid, short pulses. With interchangeable attachments you reach large muscles in the thighs and back as well as smaller areas on the shoulder and neck. It is popular with people who do sport and with anyone who wants to control the pressure themselves. The models are under massage guns, and the key buying criteria under Buying a massage gun.
Foot massagers and devices for the calves
Foot massagers come with Shiatsu rollers, air compression, heat, or water as a foot bath. A separate group massages feet and calves at the same time. Airbags wrap around the calf and apply alternating pressure. The full range is under foot massagers, and the combination devices under foot massagers with calf cuffs.
Eye massagers
An eye massager sits over your eyes like a pair of goggles. It works with heat, gentle air pressure and vibration around the eye area. Some models can also cool. It is meant for breaks after long screen work or for winding down in the evening. More in What does an eye massager do? and in the category eye massagers.
Massage tables
A massage table is not an electric device but the surface for a massage by hand. It folds, is height-adjustable and has a headrest. It is meant for people who want to give or receive massages at home, and for therapists who make home visits. You will find the models under massage tables.
And if it should be the whole body?
All of these devices focus on one zone. A massage chair combines many of them: rollers for the back, airbags for the arms and legs, foot rollers and often heat. It needs more space and a bigger budget, but replaces several individual devices. The models are under massage chairs.
How to find the right type
- Tension in the neck: neck massager or massage cushion.
- Lower back: back massager or massage pad.
- After sport: massage gun.
- Tired feet and heavy legs: foot massager, with calf cuffs for the calves.
- Long screen days: eye massager.
- Massage by hand: massage table.
All devices on one page are under massagers.
Frequently asked questions
Which massager is the best?
There is no single answer. The best device is the one that suits your problem area and that you use regularly. A neck massager used every evening does more than a large device that sits in the cupboard.
Are massagers suitable for everyone?
Not always. With a pacemaker, thrombosis, inflammation, during pregnancy or with other pre-existing conditions, you should talk to a doctor first. More in Are massagers dangerous?.
How long should you use a massager?
15 to 20 minutes per session is usually enough. Many devices switch off by themselves after this time. Follow the instructions in the manual.
Written by NAIPO Editorial Team · Massage & Product Experts from Hamburg
Product experts, service technicians, and massage enthusiasts at Alsterwell GmbH — specializing in massage technology for over a decade, with our own workshop and showrooms for test sitting.
Fact-checked by David Eberst · Co-founder of NAIPO
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