Stay Pain-Free And Comfortable With The 7 Best Neck Massagers (2024)

If achy and tight neck muscles are interrupting your daily activities, you may find comfort in knowing you’re not alone. According to Dr. Frank Pedlow, an orthopedic spine surgeon at Massachusetts General Hospital, 80% of people experience neck pain during their lifetime and 20% to 50% deal with it annually. In fact, neck pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders, with anxiety, sleep issues and work-related stresses often serving as root causes. The latter is often linked to prolonged sitting and is most effectively addressed in the moment, says Camilla Moore, D.C., chiropractor and holistic musculoskeletal specialist based in Providence, Rhode Island. Fortunately, the best neck massagers allow you to tackle tightness as it occurs on a more regular (and affordable) basis.

The anatomy of your shoulders and neck is complex and sensitive, as muscles, tendons, ligaments and bone intertwine. You’ll therefore want to opt for a neck massager that has a variety of intensity levels and additional functions, such as heat therapy or attachment heads if you’re shopping for a massage gun.

Before you find yourself overwhelmed by the many neck massagers on the market, consider perusing this guide. We’ve pored over specs, features and reviews to round up the best neck massagers that cater to different needs and budgets, from athletes who need a powerful and portable neck massager (the Hypervolt Go 2) to commuters who crave relief on the go (the Papillon Back Massager Pillow). If you’re dealing with discomfort, there’s never been a better time to address it than now.

Best Neck Massager Overall

An Affordable, Powerful Massager For Controllable Pressure

Mirakel Shiatsu Neck Massager

Weight: 4 pounds | Battery Life: Plug-in | Heat: Yes

The Mirakel Shiatsu Neck Massager is strong enough to work out serious knots, and it offers heat to help muscles relax. Ergonomically positioned on your neck and shoulders with hand stirrups to help you control the pressure, it’s also easy on your wallet, which makes it our top pick for the best neck massager.

Mirakel’s massager uses eight powerful, bi-directional nodes to delicately knead tight spots about your neck. The click of a button can have them change direction; while some models will auto-change directions every minute, the manual control is nice if you have a particularly sensitive nerve that doesn’t like one direction.

What’s more, this massager offers a heating function, which Jessica Crow, licensed massage therapist and founder of CNTRD Wellness, recommends because “the heat will also soften the tight muscles and tissues so that the percussion, kneading or vibration is more effective and safer because you’ll be able to relax more deeply—your muscles won’t be ‘fighting’ against the massage pressure, which in some cases can cause more damage.”

Both Crow and Dr. Moore like the stirrup design for the arms, as it helps to keep the massager right where you want it and allows you to create more focused pressure with gentle pulling, while also allowing your upper traps to relax. Just go lighter than you think with the pressure to start, Crow advises.

While the concept of a neck massager that requires you to use your arms might sound annoying, it’s actually ideal because it forces you to take a break from activities like typing or scrolling that contribute to neck pain.The stirrup design also allows you to maintain pressure if you want to move the massage nodes down onto your traps, your back or anywhere that’s sore.

We also love the safety precautions take by the Mirakel Massager: It has overheat protection built in, and the massager automatically shuts off after 15 minutes so you don’t risk over-kneading any tender areas.

The main gripe with this massager is that it isn’t cordless, so you’re tied to a single location for your massage. However, power from a cord often means a stronger battery and more power. And we love that there’s both a wall-plug and car plug for passengers on long road trips.

What the reviews say: “Isuffer a lot from chronicneckpain. Thisneckmassager is a miracle. It works so good, relives myneckpain, releases mynecktension.”

Pros:

  • Eight bi-directional massage nodes
  • Arm stirrups for controlled pressure
  • Heat feature

Cons:

  • Not cordless
  • Heat feature could be hotter

Best Cordless Neck Massager

A Massager That Emphasizes Portability

Etekcity EM-SN8S Cordless Neck Massager

Weight: 3.75 pounds| Battery Life: 3 hours | Heat: Yes

Following the same design as our top overall pick, the Etekcity Cordless Neck Massager offers stirrup straps for your arms to help control the pressure from eight bi-directional rollers and heat activation that offer enhanced muscle relaxation.

However, there’s one big design difference that separates this massager from Mirakel: It’s completely cordless, which makes it a more convenient choice whether you’re walking around the house or heading out to run errands.

The battery will last for three hours and is rechargeable with the included charger. Unlike its corded brethren though, the power behind the nodes noticeably fades as the battery starts to die.

The overall design is a bit cumbersome, and you have to pull down with greater force to work on deep knots, which may be difficult for people with limited mobility or strength. The nodes also change direction automatically every 30 seconds, it’s more expensive and some people report a weaker heating element. For these reasons, we like the Etekcity as a cordless alternative, but it doesn’t compare to a plug-in model.

What the reviews say: “Feels like I'm getting a real massage, except I'm in control of where it's placed. It kneads very deep but I can control the pressure with the weight of my arms in the loops.”

Pros:

  • Cordless
  • Eight strong, bi-directional massage nodes
  • Heat element

Cons:

  • Bulky design
  • Nodes automatically oscillate every 30 seconds

Best Cane Neck Massager

A Manual Massager That Targets Hard-To-Reach Areas

LiBa Back And Neck Massager

Weight: 1.3 pounds | Battery Life: N/A | Heat: N/A

The LiBa Back And Neck Massager is a curved cane embellished with hooks that tap into areas of painfora deep, manual tissue massage. If you've never used a massager such as this, the illustrated user guide willkeep you ontrack.

Similar devices are often favored by chiropractors and physical therapists, including Dr.Moore, whoexplains the manual design allows you to better control the pressure while you’re finding relief.

It’s also ideal if you have limited mobility or strength, as you don’t have to reach your armsoverhead at any point and you can access even those hard-to-reach places on your back. It’s also made from incredibly eco-friendly components and hypoallergenic plastic that’s safe to use in the shower.

This neck massager is ano-frillstool without heat or percussion. But its battery-free operation and diverseapplications meanit will serve you for years to come. Keep inmind that theprice pointsdependon your color choice.

What the reviews say:“I was having such a tough time with recurring muscle spasmsin scapulaarea and trapsoften times resultingin stiffnecks. My massage therapist suggested this massage hook. It helpedme to identifypainful trigger points andbeingable to speed up my recovery by self-massage.”

Pros:

  • Versatilein use
  • Controllable pressure
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Requires manual pressure
  • Awkward shape for carrying in your bag

Best Neck Massager For Athletes

A Massage Gun For Post-Workout Relief

Hyperice Hypervolt Go 2

Weight: 1.5 pounds | Battery Life: 3 hours | Heat: No

If you have neck pain and workout regularly, let your money pull double duty by opting for a massage gun that works out kinks in your neck and facilitates recovery in other muscles. Percussive massage guns tend to go deeper into the muscle than oscillating tools like the neck massagers listed above, which is why the latter is more ideal for relief in the base of the neck where your structures are more delicate, Dr. Moore explains.

The Hypervolt Go 2 is the lightweight, travel-friendly option in the Hypervolt line but it still retains its umph in spite of its size. With a high-torque 40W motor, three speeds settings and up to 40 pounds of stall force, this massage gun offers the ideal amount of power for neck and shoulder relief, while still being strong enough to work on other, thicker muscles of your body. The battery lasts up to three hours, and the gun comes with two head attachments to work different muscle fibers.

One note: Don’t use your massage gun on the smaller muscles near the top of the neck, Dr. Moore warns. Stick to the bigger muscles along the base of the neck and into the shoulders, which are big enough to handle the power of a massage gun—focus here will help with pain further up the neck.

What the editors say: “The portable, powerful percussive action of the Hypervolt Go 2 makes it a worthy addition to any athlete’s recovery arsenal. Small and lightweight, it’s easy to pack in a backpack or gym bag, and different massage settings make it easy to dial in the right amount of speed and pressure for near-instantaneous relief.”

Pros:

  • Versatile designed targets different muscles
  • Strong motor and solid battery life
  • Travel-friendly size

Cons:

  • Too powerful for small neck muscles

Best Manual Neck Massager

A Low-Tech Massager For Manual Manipulation

Aletha The Range

Weight: 0.56 pounds | Battery Life: N/A | Heat: No

The Range (formally known as The Nuckle) is a handy contraption that easily fits inyour bag for on-the-go use.Using three sets of tips that offer varying shapes, it’s designed to mimic a therapist's fingers and work the intricate musclesaround the base of your skull.

Aside from kneadingout neckknots, it can also be used around your jaw, shoulders (especially if you have a rounded posture) and upper traps. To use it effectively, place the device directly underthe area of pain andlet it sink into the muscles—it works its magic by releasing tension as you remain still. Move it around to other spots as you wish, manually applying pressure by holding the tool wherever your body needs it most. Keep in mind that this isn’t a hands-free solution, so it’sbestto set some time aside when a neck massage calls.

What the reviews say:“This producthas relievedmy neck pain! It also workswellonjaw pain. Thelittlelegs get into all the tiny spaces.”

Pros:

  • Controllable pressure
  • Versatile use beyond the neck
  • Lightweight and easy to pack

Cons:

  • Requires manual pressure

Best Neck Massager For Driving

A Soft, Pillow-Like Massager

MOST POPULAR

Papillon Neck Massager Pillow

Weight: 3 pounds | Battery Life: Plug-in | Heat: Yes

A neck massager that provides relief while you’re driving helps many of us who are susceptible to upper back, shoulder and neck pain, from professional drivers who sit all day to anyone who experiences pain during the daily commute.

There are a lot of back massagers that look and feel like a rigid pillow, but the Papillon Back Massager is one of the few with every feature you want: three speeds, optional heat settings (which Crow says speeds up the benefits of the massage) and both a car adapter (12V DC) and an AC adapter (110-220V).

The Papillon is ergonomically designed with four 3D massage nodes that automatically change direction every minute. The exterior is made with soft, breathable material, so you won’t start sweating when the massager heats up. Plus, you can shimmy the pillow down and use it as a back massager or, when you’re not driving, a foot massager, too.

The biggest complaint is that the massager features a 15-minute auto shut-off function, which can be frustrating if you prefer prolonged periods of relief. With that said, both of the experts we interviewed say its important to make sure you're not over-kneading a sore area, and if it needs longer than 15 minutes of massage, that's a sign you should see an in-person professional.

What the reviews say: “The kneading on this is strong, the heat is comfortable and it's overall relaxing. I've had a horrible knot in myneckthat I was unable to find relief for, until I used this (in one sitting!)”

Pros:

  • Heat functionality
  • Plug-in battery
  • Auto shuts off after 15 minutes for tendon safety

Cons:

  • Not cordless
  • No strap to attach to headrest

Best Handheld Neck Massager

Small, Powerful And Portable

Therabody Theragun Mini

Weight:1.5 pounds |Battery Life:120 minutes |Heat:No

Don’t be fooled by its size—the Theragun Mini is just as powerful as itslargercounterparts. Designed 20% smaller and 30% lighter than the previous-generation Mini, this massage gun is the ultimate tool when traveling light. It delivers three speeds ranging from 1,750-2,400 PPMs (percussions per minute) to quickly relieve tension and speed up recovery, and it’s designed to bolster mobility and improve range of motion. It’s comfortable to hold, with an ergonomic triangle shape for ease of grip and movement. And it features a brushless motor and QuietForce Technology, so your massage session won’t disturb those around you.

Choose between three attachment heads—ball, dampener and thumb—to target specific areas and three massage gun colors to match. your gym fits. The Mini comes with a USB charger to keep the batterytopped up, though it’ll run for up to two hours on a single charge.

If you want to connect the Mini to the Therabody app, do so via Bluetooth and gain access a library of information, including guided routines.

What the editors say:“While the Theragun Mini looks much smaller than its full-size massage gun counterparts, it’s actually just as powerful and capable when the time comes for a deep massage. Add in the included carrying pouch, and you’ll find every excuse to take this massager on the go.”

Pros:

  • Portable and travel-friendly design
  • Comes with three attachment heads
  • Perfect for full-body recovery

Cons:

  • Pricey
  • Average battery life

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How We Chose The Best Neck Massagers

When shopping for a neck massager, you’ll want a safe, reliable option that reduces unwanted aches and pains. With that in mind, we relied on reputable testing, expert advice and independent reviews (only those averaging 4 stars and above) when selecting the best neck massagers. We also leaned on personal experience when making recommendations (we’ve tested the Hyperice and Therabody massagers on this list) and cross-referenced our experience with licensed massage therapists, personal trainers and physical therapists. We also performed exhaustive research on what’s available, taking into account product specs, designs and features that set our round-up of the best neck massagers apart from others to ensure this list encompasses the top buys on the market today.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

Our team of editors, writers and contributors combined experience and expertise to identify the best neck massagers. As trained and licensed fitness experts, we know what it takes to manage life- and workout-related aches and pains. And we’ve covered other recovery tools in detail, including back massagers, foot massagers and foam rollers. Naturally, our knowledge spills into the best neck massagers.

Several of the products recommended here have been tested, and some come recommended by experts in the field. We spoke with Dr. Frank Pedlow, an orthopedic spine surgeon at Massachusetts General Hospital, Jessica Crow, a licensed massage therapist and founder of CNTRD Wellness and Camilla Moore, D.C., chiropractor and holistic musculoskeletal specialist based in Providence, Rhode Island, for their professional insights on neck pain and how you can benefit from neck massagers. And last but not least, this article was edited by Vetted’s gear editor, Cam Vigliotta, who holds a degree in kinesiology and regularly covers health and wellness topics.

We keep things fresh by constantly reviewing the recommendations found here. This article was last updated in November 2023.

Do Neck Massagers Really Work?

The global neck and shoulder massage market is projected to jump 8.3% by 2033—a telltale sign of the market’s growing popularity. Beyond popularity, neck massagers are promoted by experts in the field, chiropractors and massage therapists included. This alone is an indication of their effectiveness at managing neck pain.

Just as a neck massage at the chiropractor or spa can untangle unwanted kinks, electronic and manual neck massagers can also alleviate pain. These work by pinpointing areas of tension and tackling them with controlled levels of pressure and, in some cases, heat, to relax muscles. The best neck massager for you will depend on what type of pressure you need and if you prefer one with adjustable intensity versus a handheld device you can fully control yourself.

Is A Vibrating Massager Good For Your Neck?

Vibration massage is a beneficial alternative to traditional massage techniques, not least for its ability to speed up muscle recovery (especially post-exercise) by stimulating blood flow to a region that helps restore tired muscles. A neck massager with vibrating features may relieve tension in your neck faster, but keep intensity in mind as you go and limit your sessions with the vibration feature to no more than 5-10 minutes so as not to overdo it.

Stay Pain-Free And Comfortable With The 7 Best Neck Massagers (2024)

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