Are neck massagers safe?

Generally, neck massagers are safe, but as with any form of massage, there are risks. If you apply too much pressure or have a preexisting neck injury, you could risk further damage. For example, there is one case documented where a man experienced a stroke after a neck massage. Although this is rare, it's important to make sure you are using your massage device properly to reduce the chances of injury.

Can you use a neck massager every day?

There is no set limit on how often you can use a neck massager, but generally, it is recommended to only use one a few times a week. In a study of 228 patients with chronic neck pain, a 60-minute neck massage two to three times a week relieved symptoms more than those who had shorter and fewer massage sessions. You can also use them pre- and post-workout. As always, it's best practice to check with your doctor before you begin any treatment.

What are the benefits of neck massagers?

There are many benefits of using neck massagers. Not only can they help save you money from expensive massage sessions, but they help relieve muscle soreness, stress, improve blood circulation, and more.

The 10 Best Neck Massagers of 2023

A well-rounded fitness routine isn’t just about working out regularly. Recovery is a key part of the process. “Post-workout recovery is so important if you want to get the most out of your workout,” Studio SWEAT onDemand trainer Tatiana Koval says. Of course, there are plenty of productive ways to unwind after a workout—or a stressful day, for that matter. You can stretch, take a hot bath, or even get a massage. (Yes, we did just call massages productive—you can thank us later.)

“Massages are incredibly rehabilitating,” Dani Robertson, senior instructor at SoulCycle in Atlanta, says, adding that she sees massages as both a luxury and a necessity. But what if you don’t have the budget to cover a regular massage? Treat yourself to a self-massage, instead. Helpful tools—like neck massagers—abound, making it easy to get a massage without breaking the bank. Opt for a wraparound neck massager that’ll do all the work for you, or try one of those massage guns you keep seeing everywhere. No matter what you choose, rest assured knowing you’re in for a treat.

Read on to learn more about neck massagers—and to see the best neck massagers worth adding to your recovery routine.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

RESTECK Neck and Back Massager at Amazon

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Best Budget:

MagicMakers Neck Massager at Amazon

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Best Splurge:

Legiral Massage Gun at Legiralmassagegun.com

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Best Handheld:

RENPHO Rechargeable Handheld Massager at Amazon

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Best Massage Ball:

Zongs Massage Ball 2-Pack at Amazon

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Best Massage Cane:

LiBa Back and Neck Massager at Amazon

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Best Massage Pillow:

Zyllion Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager at Amazon

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Best for Temperature Therapy:

Wahl Hot Cold Therapy Massager at Amazon

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Best for Headaches:

VOYOR Neck Massager at Amazon

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Best Massage Seat:

Comfier Neck and Back Massager at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
Final Verdict
What to Look For
FAQ
How We Researched
Why Trust Byrdie?

4.6

View On Amazon View On Walmart

What We Like

Adjustable settings
Can be used hands-free
Includes a heat setting

What We Don't Like

A little expensive

Who else recommends it? StyleCraze and The Strategist both picked the RESTECK Neck and Back Massager.

What do buyers say? 90% of 48,800+ Amazon reviewers rated this product 4 stars or above.

If you’re looking for a solid neck massage, nothing beats a wraparound massager. (For the uninitiated, that’s a massager that wraps around your neck and shoulders, getting all those pesky spots you just can’t reach with your hands.) What we love about this device, especially, is that it doesn’t offer a one-size-fits-all massage. It comes with four different adjustable settings, allowing you to make your massage as gentle, intense, or warm as you want it to be.

Price at time of publish: $65

Manual or Electric: Electric | Features: Four settings, heat, auto shutoff

View On Amazon

What We Like

Can be used hands-free
Includes a heat setting
Eight modes

What We Don't Like

Device could be longer-lasting

The MagicMakers Neck Massager feels good and looks great. And did we mention it’s also surprisingly affordable? The wraparound massager is designed to target your neck and shoulders, though if you opt for a looser fit, you can get parts of your back, too. The massager comes with three different massage speeds. And since it boasts an adjustable heater, you can indulge in a little warmth any time you want. The cherry on top? The massager is actually pretty cute, which is something we never expected to say about a neck massager.

Price at time of publish: $60

Manual or Electric: Electric | Features: Eight settings, 119 degrees Fahrenheit heat setting, auto shutoff

View On Legiralmassagegun.com

What We Like

Professional-grade
Cordless for use on the go
Includes six replacement massage heads

What We Don't Like

Not hands-free

Looking for a massager worth splurging on? Spring for a professional-grade massage gun, like the Legiral Massage Gun. Massage guns have quickly become a must-have in the fitness space, thanks to the intense, targeted pressure they’re able to provide. And if a hyper-intense neck massage sounds a little intimidating, don’t worry—this massage gun comes with 20 different intensity settings, so you can easily customize your massages to meet your needs.

Price at time of publish: $130

Manual or Electric: Electric | Features: Rechargeable lithium battery, 24V brushless motor, 20 speeds, eight replacement heads, LED controls, portable suitcase

Amazon

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What We Like

Can reach any area
Easy and comfortable to hold
Cordless for use on the go

What We Don't Like

Not hands-free

Handheld massagers require a little more work than wraparound massagers, but since they put you in control of the massage, they’re totally worth it. This one is an easy-to-hold pick that’s long enough to target some of those hard-to-reach places. And since it comes with five different attachments, you can get a dynamic massage that suits exactly how you’re feeling on any given day.

Price at time of publish: $50

Manual or Electric: Electric | Features: Rechargeable battery, automatic shutoff, five massage heads, three speeds

View On Amazon

What We Like

Ideal for difficult-to-target areas
Easy to use
Includes two massage balls

What We Don't Like

Not automatic

If you don’t mind putting in a little work, a massage ball—like the Zongs Massage Ball—can make a big difference. Simply take the massager in your hand and rub the ball all over your neck and upper back. It will dig into your skin in a way fingers just can’t, leaving you feeling like you just got a lovely massage. Plus, the ball is small enough that you can use it to massage just about anything—including your arms, legs, feet, and more. Use it to soothe sore muscles or add a little luxury to your life. Either way, you’re in for a treat.

Manual or Electric: Manual | Features: Two massage balls

4.8

Amazon

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What We Like

Inexpensive
Available in different colors
Easy and comfortable to hold

What We Don't Like

Not automatic

There’s nothing wrong with doing things the old-fashioned way—and this LiBa Back and Neck Massager proves it. The cane is basically the massage equivalent of a backscratcher. Loop it around your neck to target common pressure points, or use one of its ball-lined ends to dig into your peskiest problem areas. The obvious downside of a massage cane? It requires you to do a fair amount of work. But the cane can get to those hard-to-reach spots better than your hands ever could—and that counts for a lot.

Price at time of publish: $36

Manual or Electric: Manual | Features: BPA-free, waterproof back and neck massager

4.8

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Can be used hands-free
Comfortable to use
Works quickly

What We Don't Like

A little expensive

Massage pillows are neck massagers you can lie down on (yes, seriously), so you can enhance bedtime and naptime with a quick, intense massage. The Zyllion Massage Pillow is crafted from vegan leather and breathable mesh, so you can comfortably lie down on it—without worrying about getting overheated. Alternatively, slide it behind your neck, back, legs, or anywhere else that could use a little attention.

Price at time of publish: $85

Manual or Electric: Electric | Features: Wired connection, adjustable straps, four massage nodes, auto shutoff, heat setting

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What We Like

Versatile
Includes seven attachments
Adjustable settings

What We Don't Like

Not hands-free

Hot and cold therapy can take a massage to the next level, and the Wahl Hot Cold Therapy Massager makes it easy to indulge in both. The handheld massager comes with seven different attachments, which you can use to change up the texture—and the temperature—of your massages. Use the hot attachment anytime you need some soothing warmth, and opt for the cold one whenever your muscles need a break. When you have seven different options to choose from, you have even more excuses to give yourself a massage.

Price at time of publish: $35

Manual or Electric: Electric | Features: Seven attachments, hot and cold attachments, zipper storage case

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What We Like

Easy to use
Inexpensive
Lightweight

What We Don't Like

May not fit everyone

It may seem weird that a neck massager could soothe your headaches, but that’s exactly what the VOYOR Neck Massager promises to do. Simply slip the lightweight massager around your neck and kick back as it does most of the work for you. The silicone balls on the massager target your pressure points, giving you a gentle squeeze you can enjoy—even if you’re relaxing and doing nothing at all. And if you want to up the intensity of your massage, you can manually move the massager around to knead anywhere that needs a little extra love.

Price at time of publish: $22

Manual or Electric: Manual | Features: Two silicone balls, adjustable intensity

4.8

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Comfier.com

What We Like

Works on the whole body
Includes a heat setting
Comfortable to sit in and use

What We Don't Like

Bulky

If you don’t mind a splurge, why not spring for a massage seat (which is basically a more versatile version of a massage chair)? Whereas massage chairs are bulky (and, frankly, hard to decorate with), massage seats can fit inside the chairs you already own. Plus, they’re couch-friendly. So if you’re really hoping to relax, you can plop down in your living room and let the massage seat do its thing. The seat is lined with massagers from top to bottom, so you can target your neck, back, and thighs all at once. And since it comes equipped with a back heater, you can get some cozy warmth any time you need it.

Price at time of publish: $240

Manual or Electric: Electric | Features: Built-in heating pad, four rotation nodes, three adjustable compression settings, adapter

Final Verdict

Self-massage can be a great way to make your recovery routine feel more luxurious—without absolutely wrecking your budget. If you’re looking for an effective massager that won’t ask you to do much work, you can’t go wrong with the RESTECK Neck and Back Massager. The wraparound massager is soft and cozy. And since it’s portable, you can easily take it with you on the go. If you’d prefer a more intense, targeted massage, opt for the Legiral Massage Gun instead. Since it’s a handheld massager, you’ll have to do a little work. But what you’ll get in return is an intense massage that’ll target any muscle that needs a little love.

What to Look for in a Neck Massager

Effort Required

There are tons of different neck massagers out there, and some require much more effort than others. If you’re looking for a low-effort massage, opt for a wraparound massager, a massage seat, or a massage pillow. If you don’t mind putting in a little work, choose a handheld option, instead.

Intensity

Some massagers are more intense than others. If you want a lower-intensity massage, try a non-motorized option, like a massage ball or a massage cane. If you’d prefer a massager with more discreet and diverse intensity options, opt for something with a motor.

Versatility

Many neck massagers aren’t just neck massagers—they’re total-body massagers you can use on your neck. But some are strictly designed to massage your neck and shoulders. If you’d prefer a more versatile option, opt for anything handheld. Since handheld massagers put you in control of the massage, you can use them just about anywhere.

FAQ

Are neck massagers safe?

Generally, neck massagers are safe, but as with any form of massage, there are risks. If you apply too much pressure or have a preexisting neck injury, you could risk further damage. For example, there is one case documented where a man experienced a stroke after a neck massage. Although this is rare, it's important to make sure you are using your massage device properly to reduce the chances of injury.
Can you use a neck massager every day?

There is no set limit on how often you can use a neck massager, but generally, it is recommended to only use one a few times a week. In a study of 228 patients with chronic neck pain, a 60-minute neck massage two to three times a week relieved symptoms more than those who had shorter and fewer massage sessions. You can also use them pre- and post-workout. As always, it's best practice to check with your doctor before you begin any treatment.
What are the benefits of neck massagers?

There are many benefits of using neck massagers. Not only can they help save you money from expensive massage sessions, but they help relieve muscle soreness, stress, improve blood circulation, and more.

How We Researched

To compile this list, our team of editors and contributors spent hours researching the best products on the market in this category, evaluating their key features—like ingredients, shade range, or design—in addition to reviews from customers and other trusted sources. We then used this research to assign a star rating from one to five (five being the best; one being the worst) to certain products on the list.

Why Trust Byrdie?

Byrdie contributor Lindsey Lanquist has years of experience in the health and fitness space. And as an avid shopper, she knows what a bummer a bad product can be. That’s why she makes sure to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and widely beloved by those who’ve tried them.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15 percent of products in our newly published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find any neck massagers from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com, and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

The 12 Best Massage Oils of 2023

Article Sources

Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.

15 Best Neck Massagers For Relaxed Muscles, According to Reviews. StyleCraze. https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/best-neck-massager/
The Very Best Electric Back Massagers. The Strategist. https://nymag.com/strategist/article/best-electric-back-massagers.html
Dutta G, Jagetia A, Srivastava AK, Singh D, Singh H, Saran RK. "Crick" in Neck Followed by Massage Led to Stroke: Uncommon Case of Vertebral Artery Dissection. World Neurosurg. 2018;115:41-43. doi:10.1016/j.wneu.2018.04.008
Sherman KJ, Cook AJ, Wellman RD, et al. Five-week outcomes from a dosing trial of therapeutic massage for chronic neck pain. Ann Fam Med. 2014;12(2):112-120. doi:10.1370/afm.1602
Should You Reach for a Handheld Massage Gun? Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/should-you-reach-for-a-handheld-massager/.
Sripongngam T, Eungpinichpong W, Sirivongs D, Kanpittaya J, Tangvoraphonkchai K, Chanaboon S. Immediate Effects of Traditional Thai Massage on Psychological Stress as Indicated by Salivary Alpha-Amylase Levels in Healthy Persons. Med Sci Monit Basic Res. 2015;21:216-221. doi:10.12659/MSMBR.894343
Plakornkul V, Vannabhum M, Viravud Y, et al. The effects of the court-type Thai traditional massage on anatomical relations, blood flow, and skin temperature of the neck, shoulder, and arm. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2016;16:363. doi:10.1186/s12906-016-1282-y