The Best Budget-Friendly Back Massagers To Soothe Muscle Pain

While it would be wonderful to have a personal masseuse on hand every time you finish a workout or feel a slight twinge in your back, the reality is that the average person can’t spare the funds nor the time for such a commitment. Thankfully, the best electric back massagers mean you don’t have to as they are capable of providing masseuse-like treatments.

What Are the Benefits of Massage Therapy?

Aside from making you feel great, there are actually numerous other benefits to undergoing some form of physical massage on a regular basis. Many of these benefits can be enjoyed across your whole body. However, it’s also possible to target certain body parts, such as your back, for specific relief. The most commonly experienced benefits include:

• Increasing localized circulation
• Relaxing muscles
• Lessening overall stiffness
• Aiding post-workout recovery
• Increasing overall skin tone
• Chronic pain relief
• Reducing stress hormone levels
• Improving your mood through increased endorphin release

Electric Massagers vs. Manual Massagers

While both electric and manual massagers can deliver relaxation and relief, the best electric massagers offer a greater level of comfort by taking the physical work out of the equation. Elements, such as nodes, heaters and pads, allow electric back massagers to deliver masseuse-like treatments at the touch of a button. In addition, electric massagers often offer a range of massage intensities to choose from, with some also bringing heat into the treatment, too.

The downside to electricity-driven devices is they can run out of battery or they offer limited freedom during use if they need to be plugged into a wall socket.

Compared to the best electric massagers, manual devices require more physical input. However, they do offer a number of benefits over their electricity-driven counterparts. These include not requiring a power source, so treatments aren’t limited to battery life, and greater freedom, as all devices are self-contained. In addition, by administering your own treatments with a manual device, it’s easier to apply the exact amount of pressure which feels good for a more enjoyable experience.

Price-wise, it’s possible to find both top-rated electric back massagers and manual back massagers for less than $30. At the other end of the scale, you can find premium electric massagers that can cost upwards of $500. In short, there is a device for every budget.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Back Massager

Before you finalize your back massager purchase, it’s worth asking yourself a couple of key questions to ensure you find the device best suited to your individual needs. These include:

What type of massager do you want? Massage guns have become increasingly popular with professional and amateur athletes alike as they stimulate circulation to muscles, aiding recovery and lessening the resulting stiffness. Other massage devices, such as shoulder and neck massagers or trigger point massagers, can provide targeted treatments for your back, including its individual sections, and other body parts. Furthermore, some of these massagers may also use heat, vibration or electrical stimulation to deliver treatments with even more complexity.

Would a larger device be better suited to your needs? If you think a handheld or smaller back massager requires too much bending and awkwardness, there are alternatives, such as these massage chairs.

Lastly, it’s always important to read the included instructions before you use any kind of back massager as you never want to make back pain worse. Always speak to your physician if you’re unsure about anything.

Below you’ll find our top picks for the best budget-friendly back massagers available online. We’ve included a wide range of electric massagers as well as a handful of manual massagers to ensure there’s something for every preference.

1. MIGHTY BLISS Deep Tissue Back and Body Massager

BEST OVERALL

With over 90% of Amazon users awarding the MIGHTY BLISS Deep Tissue Back and Body Massager a five-star review, it’s easy to see why it sits in the top spot for best electric back massagers. This versatile, home-massage device is made for delivering deep tissue massage to help with knotted muscles and spasms in a matter of seconds. In addition to relaxing muscles, this super powerful handheld massager also increases blood flow using the 3,700 bliss-filled pulses delivered every minute. The cordless, slim and lightweight design makes this device ideal for travel and in-office use, while the battery allows for 120 minutes of use from a single charge.

2. HoMedics Percussion Action Massager

RUNNER UP

This option from HoMedics has a dual-head design with a long, curved handle that makes it easier to reach sore spots and effectively provide relief. The panel on the top allows you to adjust the heat and intensity of the massager, so you can enjoy a relaxing massage or deliver targeted, intense pressure. The handle has a jug-style grip that makes it easier to hold as you work through your massage. It’s a corded option, so it’s best suited for home massages.

3. LiBa Back and Neck Massager

BEST MANUAL

If you want the ability to perform a self-massage where and when you want, and you don’t mind a little bit of manual work in the process, the LiBa Back and Neck Massager could be the answer for you. It comes recommended by over 19,000 five-star reviews from Amazon customers. The massager includes a single hook node, two neck nodes and two hooked handles to provide a range of possible treatments and ensure you’re in control throughout the experience. This device is also an appealing blue color to offer an extra dose of relaxation. Additionally, it’s made from an eco-friendly material that is BPA, PBDE, TBBPA-free while also being strong and lightweight.

24,000+ reviews!

4. HoMedics Quattro Massager

COMPACT PICK

Even small massagers can be pretty big, but the HoMedics Quattro massager is a truly tiny option that you can put in your gym bag or backpack for a relaxing shoulder massage, no matter where you are. And, as it’s on sale for less than $8, it’s a super affordable alternative to the often pricey portable massagers. It runs on AAA batteries, adding to the portability. Unsurprisingly, it’s not the strongest massager, and it won’t be able to tackle deeper tissue soreness. But for light, relaxing massages, it’s a great mini option.

5. ZONGS Manual Massage Ball

BEST BUDGET

Even though the ZONGS Manual Massage Ball requires no power to function, passing the ball over your back will still provide plenty of relief for any of your aching muscles. At just shy of three inches across, the ball is small enough to comfortably travel with you, making it a great option for on-the-go treatments. The surrounding casement includes a grove to provide a reliable grip as you pass the ball over your muscles. In addition, this versatile massager and relaxation tool can be used across your whole body and comes in four color options.

6. Coolife Fascia Muscle Roller

BEST FOR CELLULITE

The Coolife Fascia Muscle Roller is a manual massager made up of three rollers covered in rounded spikes. While it may not sound like the most relaxing experience, these larger-than-average points can actually get deeper to provide greater relief. These projections may also help increase blood flow and break up tight tissue and fat cells, giving your skin a smoother, healthier appearance. For ease of use, the 16.5-inch roller, which comes in either light blue or green, includes foam handles on either end.

7. TriggerPoint AcuCurve Massage Cane

BEST CANE

The TriggerPoint AcuCurve Massage Cane is designed to let you get to all those hard-to-reach muscle aches and pains. Using an ergonomic design, which includes double balls on one end and an extra-firm drop tip on the other, it lets you turn any corner and reach every part of your body with ease. This simple yet effective massager can also be used on a number of different body parts, including your back, calves and feet. Furthermore, it comes with over 2,400 five-star ratings and offers a 90-day return window.

8. Comfier Shiatsu Neck & Back Massager

BEST IN-CHAIR

For a massaging treatment as you sit, try the Comfier Shiatsu Neck & Back Massager. This chair insert features innovative technology that delivers 2D and 3D finger-like shiatsu massage to your back. You’ll enjoy three intensity levels along with heat, vibration and air compression elements for a comprehensive massage treatment. The device can be used at home or at the office and is great for massaging your back, shoulders, waist and thighs. Additionally, it includes a removable and washable head cover for easy maintenance.

9. Uncommon Goods Handmade Rope Massager

BEST HANDMADE

If electricity isn’t really your thing and you want a more hands-on approach to your back therapy, give this Uncommon Goods Handmade Rope Massager a try. Between the two ergonomic handles, you’ll find 20 wooden rollers which are filled with ridges and knobs. As you move the massager back and forth, these balls massage your muscles, tendons and ligaments, providing a comprehensive treatment that will have you feeling better in no time. Plus, the massager can be used on other areas of your body, too.

10. HealthmateForever YK15AB TENS unit

BEST TENS

Boasting over 7,400 five-star reviews, the HealthmateForever YK15AB TENS unit is one of the most popular and powerful TENS and muscle stimulators available. The comprehensive control makes it easy to tailor the treatment to your needs, whether you’re looking for quick pain management, TENS or muscle stimulation. This safe and non-invasive treatment lets you choose between 20 levels of intensity and includes a belt clip for use on the move. Furthermore, the unit boasts eight different pads, meaning it’s possible to cover more than one muscle group at one time.

11. VIKTOR JURGEN Handheld Back Massager

BEST FOR EVERYDAY USE

With its handy, elongated handle and extra-long power cord, the VIKTOR JURGEN Handheld Back Massager is a budget-friendly answer to your daily massage needs. The device includes several intensity levels and three interchangeable heads, namely acupuncture, air cushion and deep shiatsu, allowing you to target different muscle groups. You’ll also find that the double head feels just like a real masseuse’s hands and can be used for deep, percussive massage of your back, neck, shoulder, upper back, arms, legs and feet.

12. HoMedics Pro Therapy Elite Shiatsu Neck Massager

BEST HEATED NECK RELIEVER

If you consistently have issues with shoulder pain, this HoMedics shiatsu massager is a solid option to get. While some pads are difficult to use on your shoulders, this massager is designed to wrap around your neck to deliver targeted relief. It provides the intense soothing benefits of a shiatsu massager, plus the relaxing, de-stressing effects of heat. The control panel is built into the device, making it easy to adjust. The massager also has comfortable loop handles that allow you to hold it in place for targeted relief.

13. Nekteck Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager

BEST OVER-SHOULDER

The Nekteck Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager is a U-shaped, elongated pillow for use on your neck, belly, waist and legs. The versatile design delivers deep 3D shiatsu massage using eight rotating nodes, providing gentle warmth to soothe muscle pain and increase blood circulation. This device is great for use at home, at the office or even in the car using the in-car power adapter. Plus, the well-reviewed massager includes a 15-minute timer setting for timed treatment sessions.

14. Wahl Deep Tissue Percussion Massager

MOST VERSATILE 

Wahl is best known for its reliable electric razors, but the brand also offers a line of handheld massagers. This compact massager has a long, nine-foot cord, allowing you to get relief wherever you are in the house. It has a variable speed design that lets you choose the intensity of the massage, while the replaceable heads give you an even more customized experience. The extra-long handle makes it easier to reach difficult areas like your back.

15. Mighty Rock Vibration Massage Seat Cushion

BEST FOR CAR

If you spend a lot of time in your car and could benefit from an in-seat massage from time to time, the Mighty Rock Vibration Massage Seat Cushion is the right choice for you. This ultra-thin massager can attach to your car seat or office chair to deliver targeted massage to your back, neck, shoulders or hip area. The cushion is supplied with a car and a home socket adapter. It features five built-in vibration motors which work with the heating function to give you eight massage types to choose from. In addition, the accompanying wired remote lets you adjust settings without having to get up and disrupt your current session.

16. AERLANG Massage Gun

BEST BUDGET GUN

At under $50, this AERLANG Massage Gun is the answer for anyone wanting a well-reviewed massage gun at a budget-friendly price. It comes backed by over 4,900 five-star ratings from happy customers who love what it can do. The gun is supplied with six interchangeable heads for a variety of treatment styles, while its 20 variable speeds further add to this. The compact device also comes with a handy carry case to make storing and transporting your massage gun simple. Furthermore, the gun includes a non-slip, ergonomic handle for greater in-use comfort and is available in four styles, including carbon fiber and silver.

17. RENPHO Rechargeable Hand Held Deep Massager

ALSO CONSIDER HANDHELD

With over 3,500 five-star reviews on Amazon, you’ll struggle to find a better-reviewed massager than the RENPHO Rechargeable Hand Held Deep Massager. The single-hand massager can provide up to 140 minutes of continuous massage from a full charge, but we don’t think you’ll ever need that much thanks to the device’s power and ability to target your pain points. The extra-long handle keeps you constantly in control, and the control buttons are conveniently placed for quick changes in intensity or pattern. In addition, this cordless massager comes with five different massage nodes, so you can always find one that fits your needs.

18. Wagan Infra-Heat Massage Magnetic Cushion

BEST BIO MAGNET

The Wagan Infra-Heat Massage Magnetic Cushion is a surprisingly versatile answer to massaging your back. The cushion is capable of using infrared heat, thermal heat, physical massage and bio-magnets to deliver a multi-angle approach to relief and relaxation. It includes five powerful massaging motors and a sleek, ergonomic design which naturally wraps around your body. Additionally, a wired remote lets you tailor the amount of heat and level of massage you enjoy without you having to move a muscle.

19. RESTECK Massager for Neck and Back

BEST HEATED

The RESTECK Massager for Neck and Back ticks all the boxes. If over 6,000 five-star reviews from happy Amazon users aren’t enough to convince you, maybe the eight heated massage nodes will. The device’s U-shaped design hangs over your neck or rests on your lap with ease, while the four built-in buttons allow you to manage the speed, power, direction and warmth of your relaxing treatment. The massager also comes with a wall adapter, a car adapter and an attractive carry bag that makes this massager portable.

20. SUVIUS Peanut Electric Vibrating Foam Roller

BEST ROLLER

You’ll be able to enjoy up to 90 minutes worth of rolling massage treatment from a single charge with the SUVIUS Peanut Electric Vibrating Foam Roller in your hands. It’s available in either green or black. It offers users three levels of vibration or a wave pattern for something a little different. The unique device is ideal for relieving muscle tension or soreness and can even be used to target certain sites using the versatile peanut-style shape. Plus, the compact design makes it easy to travel with it or keep it in your training bag for fast, post-workout treatments.

21. LifePro 4-Speed Vibrating Massage Ball

BEST POST-WORKOUT RELIEF

The peanut shape of this vibrating massage ball allows it to target sore muscles in an ergonomic way. In addition to the vibration, the textured surface helps to de-stress and massage muscles while preventing the device from slipping as you work over it. It runs on a rechargeable battery, which has a two to four-hour battery life, allowing you to get plenty of use between charges.

22. Snailax Cordless Shiatsu Back Massager

BEST CORDLESS

The Snailax Cordless Shiatsu Back Massager is a versatile device that can be used on almost any chair with an upright back. Whether at home, at the office or even in your car, this four-node massager can get your blood flowing and result in a calmer, more relaxed disposition. The rechargeable device offers up to 70 minutes per session from a full charge and includes a flap that can be removed for a more intense treatment, depending on your preference. It’s also cordless, lightweight and compact, making it well suited to life on the road.

23. Snailax Memory Foam Massage Seat Cushion

BEST HOME-OFFICE ADDITION

For a more comprehensive take on the Snailax back massager, this seat cushion covers both the back and the seat of the chair, allowing you to comfortably get relief on your back and legs. There’s a control panel included with the massager that allows you to toggle through different settings, including different vibration styles and targeted relief for specific problem areas. It has a memory foam cover as well.

24. LCM Home Fashions Hot Stone Massager

BEST STONES

Placing the stones from this LCM Home Fashions Hot Stone Massager on your back is an effective way to release physical tension and relax. The hands-on kit includes four rocks and a shell-shaped, plug-in heater. Once the rocks have warmed up inside the heater, they can be placed on various points on your back or used on other body parts, such as between toes or on palms. With its attractive appearance and low-intensity requirements, this set makes a great gift idea for friends or family who love to relax.

25. Zyllion Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager

BEST PILLOW

The Zyllion Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager provides a comfortable and relaxing massage for your back, arms, feet, neck or legs. The pillow-style device can be used in bed, on the couch or attached to chairs using the built-in elastic straps. It delivers a shiatsu massage using nodes that change direction every 60 seconds for a more varied treatment. The device includes a heating function and a 20-minute auto-shutoff. The sleek massage device is made from vegan leather and includes a breathable mesh for added style and comfort during use. Plus, the pillow comes with an adapter for in-car use and a sleeve that produces a less intense experience for more sensitive users.

26. Hyperice Hypershpere Mini Body Massager

BEST TRIGGER POINT RELIEF

While not exactly cheap, the Hyperice Hypersphere massager is one of the less expensive offerings among the premium workout massager brands. At 4 inches wide, it’s a very compact option that’s easy to take on the go. It’s designed to be used in a similar way to lacrosse ball massagers — it provides targeted relief to sore muscles as you roll over it. But, since it’s electric, it provides more intense relief. There are three speed settings so you can get a customized experience. The fact that it looks like the Death Star doesn’t hurt, either.

27. RENPHO Massage Gun

BEST HANDHELD

The RENPHO Massage Gun sports a different design compared to many other massage guns. However, with over 85% of Amazon users awarding it a five-star review, you can trust that individuality is a positive thing. Its ergonomic handle helps keep you comfortable, while the five different head positions ensure you can massage even the hardest-to-reach places. You’ll also be able to choose between six different heads and four different intensity levels, depending on your preferences.

28. Body Sport Professional Vibrating Massager

BEST PROFESSIONAL

It may look a little bit more like something you’d expect to find in a carpenter’s arsenal, but the Body Sport Variable Speed Professional Vibrating Massager is capable of delivering a serious dose of massaging goodness. The professional-standard device’s two-handed design can be used on several parts of your body, but it’s most effective for use on a second person. As you move the massager over the various parts of your body, including your back, you’ll enjoy reduced tension, increased blood flow and general muscle relaxation. In addition, the urethane pad maintains a level of comfort, while the high-powered motor can be controlled to run between 1,000 and 3,800 rpm.

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