The Zyllion ZMA-13-BK FDA-Listed Shiatsu Pillow Massager is our best neck massager which has a total of 4 massage nodes that deeply kneads your neck and back to alleviate muscle soreness and relax your back. The slim body only measures 6 cm so you can also use it on other parts of your body, other than your neck. It also has a heating function so it gives you a thorough and relaxing massage for your muscle pains and aches.
Our step-up pick is the Bonsai Wellness Shiatsu Kneading Back Massager and it aims to release tension on the neck, legs, arms, waist, feet, shoulders, back and other parts. It comes with an AC power adapter as well as a car charger so you can massage on the go while on the road and it gives you a bi-directional massage movement where you can choose up to 3 speeds so you can experience a realistic massage.
The budget pick is the FitPlus Shiatsu Neck Massager Pillow and it comes with a car strap so you can take with you while driving or riding your vehicle and get total relaxation on the road. The massager has a total of 4 heated kneading nodes for extra comfort and true massaging power while the heating massage helps to circulate blood and promote a healthier body. It is an ideal neck massager that also works as a back massager.
A Little Background
The neck is one of the most important parts of our body. Our necks spend a lot of time in any daily activity, whether we work on the office or out in the field. Our necks are just like our hands since they are also part of our rigorous and busy day. Necks serve an important purpose on everyday tasks.
A stiff neck is often the result of prolonged exposure to the computer or office work or sometimes in other physical work as well. Stiff necks often occur if you often use your neck in working in an office or sitting in front of the computer. A bad neck is also associated with shoulder pains and back pains because they are somewhat interconnected with each other’s systems. Stiff necks could also be a result of bad sleeping positions, especially if you sleep in an uncomfortable place, such as a private or public transport or on the ground.
A full body massage often includes a hearty neck massage as part of the program, as it is part of the back. Neck massages are usually a part of any therapeutic massage or partner massage or even as a casual massage. If you check out a massage chair, it also often comes with a nice neck massage roller feature so you can also get instant relief for your stiff neck and similar pains.
However, not every person knows how to properly perform neck massages, since it holds the spinal column of a person and can potentially hurt a person if they did not know what they are doing. Neck massages should be done expertly with constant pressure. Of course, if you did it with a partner or a therapeutic massage expert, it could be hard for you to control the pressure and it can become uncomfortable unless your partner is absolutely expert and gentle when it comes to neck massages. For some people who might have sensitive muscles or skin, they can go for an automatic neck massager that is usually a part of a massage chair or as a separate massage pillow or contraption.
This is why, if you cannot get someone who is an expert in neck massage, you can entrust your relaxation and comfort to a neck massager. A neck massager can come in the form of a pillow that can be tied to any vehicle or as a simple over the neck mechanism. They will definitely provide you with minutes of soothing comfort and relaxation because of the rolling kneading mechanism as well as the heating function that makes it feel like a real massage only done by a machine.
Neck massagers often come in single pillow machines with heating technology or massagers that have a u-shape so your hands can hang properly. Because a neck massager can be controlled easily, most people often go with such types of neck massagers so they can get instant and actual relief from any neck pain or back and shoulder pain. In fact, it would be great to have a neck massager that you can also use and depend on when it comes to shoulder aches, muscle pains at the back and other parts of the body, making the neck massager super flexible in its build.
Some neck massagers also double as a back massager presumably depending on its design and size. Because of this fact, many more people will often get a neck massager instead of a full chair because of the portability of the said massager. These can be strapped to your car seat so you can get a partial massage even while driving so you won’t get tired easily. Most everyday drivers or office workers rarely have time to go to the spa and this is why an on the go massage tool can help them alleviate their stiff necks, shoulder pains and back pains from a hard day’s work.
How We Picked
The best neck massagers were picked out from the following criteria:
The number of massage nodes should be considered. At the very most, you will find a normal neck massager to have 2 to 4 kneading nodes that will function to give you the best massaging power. In some cases, they can also be amounting to 8 different kneading nodes and sometimes higher in their price and this is why you should definitely choose the perfect neck massager for your body and for your needs. The massage nodes should also be durable and comfortable so they can be used for many more instances. If you often get neck and back and shoulder aches then you should consider a very sturdy set of massage nodes.
The heating capability of the neck massager is important if you want a thorough and relaxing (or intense) neck massage. Heating is highly important in any neck massager that functions to be an automatic massager for your neck, shoulders, back and other parts of your body. The heating part of a neck massager or any massager for that matter is vital to your blood circulation. A healthy circulation of the blood means you can get to
Do know if that neck massager can also be used as a back massager. The importance of having a multipurpose massager as a neck massager and for other massaging purposes is that you can work on your back pains and muscle aches on the go without having to purchase another separate massager. Besides, most neck massagers will definitely work on any part of the body due to its versatile size, design and rolling, kneading and heating mechanism.
A neck massager with an adjustable hanging strap so it can be fitted onto any chair is a great neck massager to consider. In some cases, if you do not want to get a heating rolling pillow neck massager, you may also get a neck massager that hangs like a travel pillow around your neck so you can easily adjust the intensity of the massage by using the flex sleeves to pull the neck massager closer to your neck so you get a more intense neck massage overall.
Make sure that the neck massager, since it is a heating massager, has somehow passed some certifications and listing such as UL to ensure safety and relaxation in one package. Since a neck massager uses heat in terms of its massaging power, you have to be safe from overheating and this is ensured with a UL-certified or CE listed neck massager and charger. The car charger and also the home charger should both be super safe and conforms to electrical standards.
The neck massager should also have an automatic shut off feature so you stay safe when the neck massager heats up too much so it is also protected against overheating. For a truly economical neck massager on the go, it should have an auto off feature so that even if you forgot to turn it off, it will not consume battery power if it is cordless or battery powered.
Our Pick
Zyllion ZMA-13-BK FDA-Listed Shiatsu Pillow Massager
For our best neck massager, we chose the Zyllion ZMA-13-BK FDA-Listed Shiatsu Pillow Massager which has a heating function so it gives you a thorough and relaxing massage for your muscle pains and aches. This neck massager has a total of 4 massage nodes that deeply kneads your neck and back to alleviate muscle soreness and relax your back. The slim body only measures 6 cm so you can also use it on other parts of your body, other than your neck while the neck massager works on the neck, thigh, calf, back and abdomen effectively.
The neck massager is widely available in black and beige colors and is also listed under FDA for safety and conforming to standards. In fact, it is also UL listed so you are guaranteed when it comes to safety. The Zyllion Pillow Massager includes a convenient car charger so you can get massaged while driving or while on the car. When it comes to comfort, has an adjustable strap so you can attach it to any chair for on the go massage.
As for the voltage, it has been rated for use on 110 to 120 volts as well as on 220 to 240 volts because of its power adaptor. Moreover, it has an automatic shut off feature within 20 minutes to reduce the risks of overheating so you stay safe and sound. The neck massager is backed by a 1 year warranty.
Flaws but Not Dealbrakers
There is not much flaws listed for the Zyllion ZMA-13-BK FDA-Listed Shiatsu Pillow Massager but some users do claim that it might be too small for them, but that’s given since it is a portable neck massager.
Step-up Pick
Bonsai Wellness Shiatsu Kneading Back Massager
As for our step-up pick, we chose the Bonsai Wellness Shiatsu Kneading Back Massager which gives you a bi-directional massage movement where you can choose up to 3 speeds so you can experience a realistic massage. This neck massager comes with an AC power adapter as well as a car charger so you can massage on the go while on the road. In fact, it also aims to release tension on the neck, legs, arms, waist, feet, shoulders, back and other parts.
When it comes to its features, this kneading massage pillow gives you a soothing heat therapy for the best massage experience. It has a total of 8 kneading rollers to give you a full-fledged recovery. The overall comfort is at its finest due to the padded comfort straps so you can specifically pinpoint the area you want to get treated. It is backed by a warranty of 3 years and a 30-day money back guarantee and is a convenient neck massager that you can use on the go.
Budget Pick
FitPlus Shiatsu Neck Massager Pillow
For our budget pick, we chose the FitPlus Shiatsu Neck Massager Pillow which has a total of 4 heated kneading nodes for extra comfort and true massaging power. It is an ideal neck massager that also works as a back massager. It comes with a car strap so you can take with you while driving or riding your vehicle and get total relaxation on the road.
As for the features, the heating massage helps to circulate blood and promote a healthier body. Moreover, the deep massage function helps alleviate and soothe muscles and other neck and back pains. Aside from a home charger, a car charger is included so you can charge the neck massager on the go while in your car or vehicle. The included back strap is highly adjustable so you can fit it on any kind of chair. Overall, many people say and claim that this is a very quiet neck massager.
The FitPlus Shiatsu Neck Massager Pillow is highly versatile so it is not just for neck and back massages, it can also work on calves and hamstrings. It also comes with a 1 minute timer as well. Moreover, the rollers are very powerful on their heating and massaging function. It is super compact and portable in its design and is currently backed by a warranty of 2 years.
Neck Massager with 8 Rollers
Gideon Shiatsu Deep Kneading Massage Pillow
If you want a massager for your neck that is totally dependable then you can go for the Gideon Shiatsu Deep Kneading Massage Pillow which has a total of eight rollers plus massaging heat to help you relax and soothe your muscles on the neck, back and shoulder parts. This unique neck massager uses deep kneading shiatsu massage action to effectively heal your pains and aches. It measures 7 by 13 inches and can be used on the go using AC and DC cables for connecting into outlets at home or on your car. Moreover, it also works for 220 volts / 50 Hz.
As for the features of the neck massager, it is very beneficial because the heat therapy gives you gentle and radiating warmth. The useful feature of this neck massager by Gideon is the fact that you can position this neck massager practically anywhere on a chair, couch or bed. In fact, you can press harder so you can get a more intensified massage. Overall, it helps to target pains on a lot of your body parts.
What’s more, the rotating kneading balls at multiple directions help to mimic a therapist so you get even and thoroughly customized massage experience. In addition to that, you can also turn off the heating function. The Gideon Massage Pillow can be used at work, in your car or practically anywhere.
Best Car Neck Massager
LiBa Shiatsu Neck Back Massager Pillow
As for our best car neck massager, we chose the LiBa Shiatsu Neck Back Massager Pillow which fits on the contours of your body so you get a fully relaxing massage. It aims to target your neck, back (lower and upper), thighs, abdomen, calves, arms, legs and many more and its U-shaped design is one of a kind when it comes to ergonomics on neck massagers.
For a unique feature, it has a timer which can run up to 1 minute to change direction so your muscles won’t get a lot of pressure all the time and so that the massaging pressure is distributed evenly. The neck massager also comes with a free car charger so you can effectively use it while commuting or at the office or at the comfort of your home.
A great portable shiatsu neck massager for cars and vehicles, the heating function gives you a hot stone massage and also offers protection against overheating using smart circuit technology. What’s more, the heating function can also be switched off. Of course, like most neck massagers, the heating function adds to the relaxation and intensity of the massage, simulating a real therapist.
The included car charger is also UL listed and approved for safety and the unit has a power saving auto off feature after 20 minutes of idle time. The LiBa Neck Massager Pillow is backed by a warranty of 3 years and a 90-day money back guarantee.
Neck Massager with Flex Handles
HoMedics NMS-375 Shiatsu Neck Shoulder Massager
The HoMedics NMS-375 Shiatsu Neck Shoulder Massager is our ideal u-shaped neck massager which comes with flex handles on the shoulder strap so you get massage intensity control on the go. In fact, you can choose between massaging or heating or both depending on your preference in soothing and comfort and you can also choose between three massage options.
With this neck massager, you can just choose vibration only, shiatsu massage only or both. On its effectiveness, the deep kneading of this neck and shoulder massager will definitely relax and soothe muscles on your neck and shoulders while the wide and extended coverage makes it ideal for people with larger frames. This neck massager is rated for use on 120 volts and is recommended use is 15 minutes or less to avoid overheating.
Best Percussion Neck Massager
LiBa Percussion Deep-Tissue Therapeutic Electric Massager
When it comes to the best percussion neck massager, we chose the LiBa Percussion Deep-Tissue Therapeutic Electric Massager which greatly helps to relieve body aches, pain on the neck, shoulder stress and tension on the muscles. This unit has a total of 3 various adjustable speed settings and it mimics the percussion massage method of most spa therapists.
As a matter of fact, it can be used at home, at the office or practically anywhere when you need comfortable relaxation on the go. This awesome neck massager unit can produce 5,000 pulses per minute so it is a truly powerful motor that will give you rapid massage movements so you get a fruitful result when it comes to percussion massage. It also has a total of 3 massage head attachments and it helps you to give comfort throughout your body and other sore parts.
For convenience, a sliding switch has a dimmer design so you can customize and adjust the speed of the neck massager. The power cord included measures 8 feet in length. The unit runs very quietly and is backed by a warranty of 36 months and a money back guarantee of 90 days.
Best Wireless Neck Massager
ETTG Wireless Portable Neck Therapeutic Massager
For our best wireless neck massager, we turned to the ETTG Wireless Portable Neck Therapeutic Massager which is great for treating neck pains as well as headaches shoulder pains and many more. Ti is also very portable so you can use it on the go. The cool thing about this unique neck massager is the fact that it is wireless so you can use it practically anywhere.
With this neck massager, you can choose from 505 electronic massage settings for a full-fledged electronic massage. When it comes to adjustability, there are 4 different therapy modes for manual mode and 2 for automatic therapy. In fact, there are 6 vibration nodes that actively massage your neck to relieve you and give you comfort.
Moreover, the various combinations of electronic vibration, electronic massage, magnetic field therapy, far infrared heating, compound energy field treatment and many more can be employed and mixed with this portable wireless neck massager. The ETTG Neck Therapeutic Massager also comes with a remote control that has an LCD screen so you can operate it easily.
For accessibility purposes, the neck massager the LCD menus are also multilingual. It is also ideal for cervical treatments other than for headaches, necks and shoulders. You can choose from vibration, intensity, heating and electro stimulation or a little bit of most of them. The unit works for 110 volts and also comes with a power charging cable and a remote control. The ETTG Portable Neck Therapeutic Massager has an automatic shut off feature of 10 minutes but can also be adjusted using the remote control. The unit is also backed by a warranty of 12 months and a 30-day money back guarantee.
Best Manual Neck Massager
Gideon Neck and Shoulder Therapeutic Adjustable
A manual massage tool for deep tissue massage on the go, the Gideon Neck and Shoulder Therapeutic Adjustable is a great neck massager for low budget people. The design mimics therapist hands so you can just get a therapeutic massage at home, at the office or on a vehicle and you control the intensity and pressure with this manual neck and shoulder self-massage tool.
The manual neck massager has a total of 4 adjustable knobs and is super ideal for pinpointing specific neck and shoulder pains. The pressure knobs can be adjusted in 4 positions while the trigger points of your body can be relieved. Overall blood flow and circulation can be enhanced while your stiff necks can be cured as well as migraines and sprains. It is recommended for use up to 5 minutes.
Best Mini Neck Massager
Uniclife Mini Vibration Soothing Penguin Massager
For a pocket sized neck massaging experience, we recommend you to try the Uniclife Mini Vibration Soothing Penguin Massager which is a battery operated mini massager which comes in white and yellow designs. This awesome neck massager has simple yet effective results for any need for a massager on the go and it also comes with two speeds which can vibrate up to 6,000 RPM for maximum comfort.
Approved and certified by CE, OTC and FDA for safety and quality, it uses two (2) AA batteries (sold separately) to function. The Uniclife Soothing Penguin Massager is an ideal neck massager as well as for other body parts like the abdomen, legs, shoulder, neck and even your face.
As for the features, an infrared ray is equipped with the red LED light. Also, you can choose between low and high pressure and speed. It is super quiet in its operation and it only measures 6 inches in length. The Uniclife Penguin Massager is super easy to carry around and fit in your pocket, purse, bag or pouch and it can be used even for camping and outdoor activities.
The Competition
Other neck massager did not make it to our list because they did not meet the safety standard and requirements and may be too flimsy in material and can be quite uncomfortable. The important thing to look in any neck massager is that it is not just functional but also safe and reliable.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the benefits of a neck massage?
A: According to Yoga Wiz , any neck pain can be eliminated with a neck massage. As a matter of fact, neck pain can cause arthritis, osteoporosis and other body pains. The thing is, if you get a neck massage, you also have the chance of relieving your shoulders, head and back parts.
Moreover, a neck massage also rejuvenates your overall health. As a matter of fact, a great neck massage is beneficial for office workers and other people who spend the day prone to stiff neck. So if you feel stressed all day then a neck massage can also be very beneficial.
A: Any tips on getting and / or giving a neck massage from / to someone?
A: According to WikiHow , the proper position is important for any neck massage. First, you might need a low chair so you can access the neck part better. Following that, light and longer strokes are more advisable for neck massages. You should make sure the massage begins with warming up first so that there will not be much tension.
Also, you should make sure you glide your hand down so you can avoid the throat part. In fact, for safety purposes, a broad pressure should be applied using the heel of your palm between the shoulder blades because of the fact that the spine, when massaged with severe pressure, can cause great pain. Added to that, you can also do a supine massage instead of a chair massage in which you might want to use oils or lotion. Last but not the least make sure the lotion or oil is safe for the skin and do know if there are allergies.
Wrapping It Up
To sum it all up, the Zyllion ZMA-13-BK FDA-Listed Shiatsu Pillow Massager is our best neck massager when it comes to calming down your neck muscles into making them more soothed after a hard day’s work or a stiff neck. No matter what your work is, a stiff neck is bad so you should definitely get a neck massage with this massager.
Jen Miller is a former electrical engineer and product specialist with more than 20 years of product design and testing experience. She has designed more than 200 products for Fortune 500 companies, in fields ranging from home appliances to sports gear and outdoor equipment. She founded Jen Reviews to share her knowledge and critical eye for what makes consumers tick, and adopts a strict no-BS approach to help the reader filter through the maze of products and marketing hype out there. She writes regularly and has been featured on Forbes, Fast Company, The Muse, The Huffington Post, Tiny Buddha and MindBodyGreen.