The 7 Best Neck Massagers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Stress, injuries, and long hours at a desk can be a literal pain in the neck. Research suggests that approximately 80% of people will experience neck pain in their lifetime.¹ No matter the cause, if you’ve ever dealt with neck pain, you know how debilitating it can be.

Neck massagers can be a safe and effective solution to alleviate neck pain, as long as you follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Nowadays, most massagers come equipped with heat and are designed to target trigger points. When used correctly, they can help relieve pain, reduce stress, and improve circulation in tight or overworked areas. Almost anyone can use neck massagers, but they are particularly helpful for people who struggle with recurring neck pain and related issues such as chronic migraines and back pain. If you work long hours at a desk, a neck massager will be an excellent way to prevent neck pain from occurring.

We tested dozens of neck massagers in our lab and then rated them on comfort, ease of use, portability, and value to find the best massagers for your specific needs and budget. Based on our research and testing, these options made the cut. We also had a doctor from our Medical Expert Board review this article for medical and scientific accuracy.

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: VIKTOR JURGEN Back Massager, Neck Massager with Heat
• Best with Heat: Papillon Back Massager with Heat
• Best Chair: Comfier Neck and Back Massager
• Best Budget: LiBa Back and Neck Massager
• Best Shiatsu: InvoSpa Shiatsu Deluxe Neck and Shoulder Massager
• Best for Migraines: LuxFit Neck Massager
• Best Back & Neck: MoCuishle Shiatsu Back Neck Massager with Heat

The Editor’s Take

As the Senior Commerce Editor for Health for the past two years, I’ve reviewed the test results of dozens of massagers and personally tested many of them myself. I struggle with neck pain—it’s always exacerbated when I spend too much time on my smartphone—but I’ve found that using a neck massager for just ten minutes often eases my pain.

Although you may see people using massage guns on their necks, doctors do not recommend that because they can harm the soft tissue around the neck. Instead, opt for massagers that are intended specifically for that purpose. Many are U-shaped, like the InvoSpa Shiatsu Deluxe Neck and Shoulder Massager, but my personal favorite is the VIKTOR JURGEN Back & Neck Massager since you can lie down while using it. 

–Jessica Wozinsky Fleming, Senior Commerce Editor

Types of Neck Massagers 

There are various types of neck massagers available that cater to different massage styles:

• Shiatsu/kneading-style massagers: Provides a massage experience that imitates human hands.
• Trigger point/vibration-style massagers: Target specific muscles to relieve tension. 
• Massage balls: These are commonly used to create rolling pressure to melt away knots and soreness.
• Heated massagers: Heated massagers apply warmth to the target areas, which helps relax your muscles. 
• Electric massagers: These are convenient because they are hands-free and allow you to change pressure and speed.
• Manual massagers: Although they may not be hands-free, manual massagers allow you to apply as much pressure as you like.

Best Overall

VIKTOR JURGEN Back Massager, Neck Massager with Heat

PHOTO: 

AMAZON

$24 at Walmart

Our Ratings

• Comfort5/5
• Effectiveness5/5
• Ease of Use5/5
• Overall Value5/5
• Features4/5

Why We Like It

The VIKTOR JURGEN Back & Neck Massager provides an amazing massage experience at an affordable price point. It’s designed as a neck massage pillow, so you can either lie on top of it or use the adjustable straps to attach it to your desk chair for a hands-free relaxation experience. 

The product is fairly straightforward, with two speeds, two massage directions, and the choice to add heat; its ease of use was a feature we loved. It was super easy to use. You just set it down, hit the power button, and lay down on it. You can adjust it to get it on the exact spot you need to knead. There’s nothing tricky about it—it’s very straightforward and easy to use.

We love the 15-minute auto shutoff, which lets you relax knowing the VIKTOR JURGEN won’t overheat completely. It’s also compact and portable, making it a great option for bringing it along on a flight or to the office. Its ease of use, affordability, and effectiveness make the VIKTOR JURGEN our pick for the best overall neck massager.

Product Details:

• Massage Type: Shiatsu/kneading massage
• Manual or Electric: Electric
• Heat: Yes
• Settings: 2 adjustable speeds; option to change direction; auto shut-off after 15 minutes
• Hands-Free: Yes
• Accessories: No

Best with Heat

Papillon Back Massager with Heat

PHOTO: 

AMAZON

$40 at Amazon

Our Ratings

• Comfort4/5
• Effectiveness5/5
• Ease of Use4.5/5
• Overall Value5/5
• Features5/5

Why We Like It

The Papillon Back Massager provides a heated massage experience. The massager features four massage nodes and three speeds, as well as breathable mesh fabric and the option to turn the heat on or off. Users raved about its ability to target the neck and upper back muscles and even take out stubborn knots. The manual promises a shiatsu massage, and it really felt like we were getting one. We like that you can control the speeds and the motion of which way the rollers are going. The addition of the heat really made this an all-star product for us.

One of our favorite features is the ability to change the direction of the massage nodes, which allows for an all-over, deep massage experience. It also has a 15-minute auto shut-off, so you can truly relax and maybe even get some shut-eye while experiencing the benefits of a good neck massage. You can lie down on the pillow or attach it to a chair, although some users report that the velcro straps aren’t super sturdy. 

Product Details:

• Massage Type: Shiatsu/kneading massage
• Manual or Electric: Electric
• Heat: Yes
• Settings: 3 adjustable speeds; option to change direction; auto shut-off after 15 minutes
• Hands-Free: Yes

Best Chair

Comfier Neck and Back Massager

PHOTO: 

AMAZON

$200 at Amazon$199 at WalmartView on Comfier.com

Our Ratings

• Comfort4.5/5
• Effectiveness5/5
• Ease of Use4/5
• Overall Value3.5/5
• Features5/5

Why We Like It

This massage chair provides the ultimate massage experience for your neck and your whole body. The chair uses various massage techniques—including kneading, compression, and vibration—and heat to relieve sore muscles and melt away stress. It has a ton of features, including vibration, heating, rolling, and even air massage. We were pleasantly surprised by everything it could do.

The neck massage portion of the chair features four massage nodes with two rotation directions. You can also adjust the location of the nodes to get the best massage experience. Keep in mind that the neck massage isn’t for the faint of heart; it’s a strong massage, making it ideal for people who want a firm, hands-free neck massage experience. Although it’s on the pricier side, the chair comes with a 30-day return option if you’re not fully satisfied.

Product Details:

• Massage Type: Kneading/Shiatsu/Vibration
• Manual or Electric: Electric
• Heat: Yes
• Settings: 3 intensity settings and optional heat
• Hands-Free: Yes

• HEALTH / CONOR RALPH
• HEALTH / CONOR RALPH
• HEALTH / CONOR RALPH

Best Budget

LiBa Back and Neck Massager

PHOTO: 

WALMART

$22 at Amazon$23 at Target$22 at Walmart

Our Ratings

• Comfort4/5
• Effectiveness5/5
• Ease of Use4/5
• Overall Value5/5
• Features4.5/5

Why We Like It

Although the LiBa Back and Neck Massager might not be as fancy as some of our other picks, we were surprised at its effectiveness—especially given the low price point. This is exactly as advertised as a trigger point massager. It was very useful with knots, and just all around, it seemed like a simple, practical tool.

The massager’s design is well thought-out and allows you to reach challenging neck and upper back areas. Since it’s a manual massager, you can also decide exactly how much pressure you want to use. Of course, this massager does not provide heat or vibration, but if you’re looking for a simple way to target sore trigger points, the LiBa could be a perfect fit. Several users have also noted its effectiveness for migraine headaches and fibromyalgia. 

It arrives in two pieces and is easy to assemble. It also comes with a helpful instruction booklet demonstrating how to use the cane, which has a learning curve.

Product Details:

• Massage Type: Trigger point
• Manual or Electric: Manual
• Heat: No
• Settings: None
• Hands-Free: No
• Accessories: No

• HEALTH / CONOR RALPH
• HEALTH / CONOR RALPH
• HEALTH / CONOR RALPH

Best Shiatsu

InvoSpa Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager

PHOTO: 

AMAZON

$50 at Amazon$70 at Walmart$120 at Invospa.com

Why We Like It

The design of the InvoSpa Shiatsu Deluxe Neck and Shoulder Massager is a bit different from the massagers we’ve covered so far. It wraps around your neck and shoulders instead of resting behind you like a pillow. This design allows for a deep massage that relieves tight muscles in your neck, shoulders, and upper back. There are different speeds to choose from, as well as the option to use heat and reverse the direction of the nodes.

With its ease of use and targeted pressure, this is our favorite option for pain relief for the muscles in your neck (especially the base of your skull) and shoulders. Our editor enjoyed that you can even use this massager while working at a desk.

Although the manual says there are three different settings and we could easily tell the difference between the most and least intense, there wasn’t much differentiation between the middle setting and the others. Keep in mind that if you use this around your neck and shoulders, you will need to use the arm straps to keep it in place, otherwise it may slide around. It also has an auto-shutoff after 15 minutes, which is helpful if you get so relaxed that you dose off.

Product Details:

• Massage Type: Shiatsu/kneading massage
• Manual or Electric: Electric
• Heat: Yes
• Settings: 3 speed settings, heat, reverse direction
• Hands-Free: Yes

• HEALTH / CONOR RALPH
• HEALTH / CONOR RALPH
• HEALTH / CONOR RALPH
• HEALTH / CONOR RALPH
• HEALTH / CONOR RALPH

Best for Migraines

LuxFit Neck Massager

PHOTO: 

AMAZON

$17 at Amazon

Our Ratings

• Comfort4/5
• Effectiveness4/5
• Ease of Use4/5
• Overall Value4/5
• Features2/5

Why We Like It

If you suffer from migraines, you know how important it is to relieve tension in your upper neck on a regular basis. The LuxFit Neck Massager doesn’t feature any special features, but that makes it perfect for melting away migraines. While this is a manual massager, it hits the sweet spot on the upper neck that you need rubbed when migraines.

The LuxFit Neck Massager has a simple design—it’s basically a large plastic handle that wraps around your head and neck, with two silicone massage balls to provide trigger point relief in tense areas. For a low price point, it’s an affordable purchase that will provide relief from migraines and tension in your neck and upper back. Its design also makes it easy to use on other areas of your body, like your legs or shoulders. 

Product Details:

• Massage Type: Trigger point
• Manual or Electric: Manual
• Heat: No
• Settings: None
• Hands-Free: No

Best Back and Neck

MoCuishle Shiatsu Back Neck Massager with Heat

PHOTO: 

AMAZON

$40 at Amazon

Why We Like It

The MoCuishle Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager drapes around your shoulders, with arm openings to control the intensity of your massage. We thought it provided a good massage for the neck, but since you have to pull down on the handles quite a bit to get a good amount of pressure, it’s not the most comfortable option solely for neck pain relief. 

To adjust the strength of the massage, you have to adjust your level of pull on the handles. The massager is very light, so to get a strong massage, you have to pull the handles with a good amount of pressure, making it feel like you have to do some of the work.

However, if you’re looking for a massager that does double duty for your back, the MoCuishle is a great option. Simply place the massager behind your lower back while you’re at your desk or on a long car ride for an amazing massage with heat and deep tissue massage strokes. The massager has a 15-minute auto shut-off and is compact and portable for a relaxing massage anywhere.

Product Details:

• Massage Type: Shiatsu/kneading massage
• Manual or Electric: Electric
• Heat: Yes
• Settings: Changes direction every minute, 15-minute auto shut-off
• Hands-Free: Yes

• HEALTH / CONOR RALPH
• HEALTH / CONOR RALPH
• HEALTH / CONOR RALPH

Our Testing Process

We tested 29 massagers produced by companies known for their quality and customer satisfaction. Our testing team used each massager in our lab for 15-20 minutes per session and rated the top neck massagers based on the following attributes:

• Setup: We unboxed the massager and examined it upon arrival, checking for loose parts or missing accessories. We ensured the massager was charged or plugged into a power source per the device’s requirements and followed instructions for activation.
• Ease of Use: We positioned the neck massager around the neck, ensuring massage nodes or rollers were in contact with target areas, and the device sat comfortably on the shoulders. Secured any straps or handles in place.
• Comfort: We turned on the massage function according to the chosen settings, starting with lower intensity and gradually increasing. We adjusted the intensity and speed settings based on preferences and comfort levels.
• Features: We tried all the different massage modes and heat settings available.

The Experts

We spoke with physical therapists and people who have used neck massagers to treat chronic neck pain to determine the best products on the market today. Experts we spoke to included:

• Zachary Woolever, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, a board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedics and clinic director of Pivot Physical Therapy in College Park, Maryland

What to Know About Neck Massagers

How Neck Massagers Work

According to Dr. Woolever, massage and trigger point therapy can help through two mechanisms. First, they work through neurophysiological means, as the pressure from the massage signals the muscle to relax and decrease resting tone or guarding. Second, this repeated on/off pressure from the massage or trigger point therapy helps pump more blood flow into the region, therefore delivering more oxygen and reversing many of the effects of the acidic environment.

See your doctor if your chronic neck pain is not relieved by a neck massager or if it suddenly appears or is related to a neck injury. Additional treatments like physical or massage therapy may be recommended.

Frequency of Use

You can use a neck massager every day or as needed. When you first start out, limit your sessions to ten minutes and gradually increase the time from there. If you find your neck pain is increasing in intensity, seek the help of a physical therapist or massage therapist to help you determine the underlying causes. And, of course, if you experience increased pain or soreness after using a neck massager, discontinue use and consult a medical professional for solutions. 

Most neck massagers are not intended for overnight use. If you like to fall asleep while getting a neck massage, choose an auto shut-off option to avoid overheating. 

Features and Versatility 

Here are some extra features to look for while shopping for the perfect neck massager:

• Heat: Heated massagers provided an added layer of relaxation by loosening tense or tired muscles.
• Rotation: Many electric massagers allow you to change the direction of the massage element for a more comprehensive massage.
• Vibration: Vibration is a great way to relieve tension and target specific areas of pain, like knots in your neck and pain in your shoulders. 
• Attachments: Some massagers come with a variety of attachments to provide targeted relief for specific muscles, like our best for travel pick, which includes six massage heads. 
• Speed: Massagers with speed settings allow you to choose between a slow, rolling massage or faster massage strokes depending on your preference. 

Other Neck Massagers We Tested

We tested these massagers, but they didn’t make our list:

• RENPHO Handheld Massager at Amazon: This little tool might not look like it could offer much relief, but we were surprised at its ability to provide targeted muscle relaxation. However, it’s not the best product for all-over neck pain relief. 
• Nekteck Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager with Soothing Heat: This massager features different speed options and is simple to use, but we found the heat function wasn’t quite strong enough. 

Who We Are

Nicole Crawford is a long-time writer and editor, as well as a fitness professional, prenatal and postpartum birth doula, yoga instructor, and avid runner based in Maryland. She received her master’s degree in 2008 and specializes in health, fitness, and nutrition for busy families. She is also a busy mom of six, which is her primary responsibility these days.