5 Best Neck Massagers for Instant Tension Relief

To find the best neck massagers, our Lab experts started by reviewing top-rated options. We looked at best-selling picks on Amazon and highly recommended products from review sites. This gave us a variety of options across price ranges and types, including manual tools, electric wraps, pillows, and massage guns, which we’ll break down in a moment.

Safety was a top priority in our testing process. After consulting with certified trainer Stefani Sassos, we determined that massage guns such as the Theragun and Hypervolt were not ideal for neck use. These devices can potentially strain the delicate muscles in the neck. Sassos says they're more suitable for larger muscle groups like those in the arms, legs, and back, and are recommended for more experienced users.

The Lab tested 13 different massagers, using each for one session and then rating ease of use, performance, and overall satisfaction on a 5-point scale. We also noted each massager’s specifications—weight, cord length, auto shut-off time, electrical certifications and included accessories. While these measurements didn’t affect each massager’s overall score, they helped us identify models with standout features and determine their overall ease of use.

Understanding the root cause of your neck tension is crucial for effective relief and should be considered before making a purchase. "Neck tension can stem from poor posture, muscular imbalances or compensating for injuries," Sassos says. "Simple adjustments, like being mindful of your positioning while sitting at a desk or improving your sleep posture, can significantly alleviate tension in this area."

By considering these factors, you can ensure you’re getting the relief you need. Once you’re certain a neck massager is the route you want to take to address your needs, there are three main styles of massagers to consider:

✔️ Wraps: Wrap-style massagers use a kneading technique, with two straps on either side and massaging nodes that press into the back of the neck. The arm cuffs help control intensity; simply pull down for a deeper massage or relax your hold for lighter pressure. However, these tend to be bulkier and heavier, which may limit portability.

✔️ Pillow: Pillow massagers also use kneading motions but are generally more passive. They’re great for reclining, and some even come with straps to attach to a chair as a headrest. However, controlling intensity with pillow massagers is harder than with wraps, as they lack the adjustable pull feature.

✔️ Manual pressure point tools: Manual tools offer the most customizable pressure but require more effort to operate. With nodes that press directly onto target areas, they give users control over intensity, similar to wraps. These tools are typically lightweight, making them a more portable option.

✔️ Heat features: Heat can be a valuable feature to relax and soothe sore and stiff muscles. If you want this option, look for massagers like wraps or pillows with adjustable heat settings. All heated models we tested allowed users to turn the heat on or off, letting you customize your experience. We recommend shopping for models with indicators that show whether the heat is on or off, but if a model doesn’t have an indicator light, heated massagers typically have red-glowing nodes when the heat function is on.

✔️ Adjustable modes: Some massagers offer multiple modes for speed, intensity, and rotation direction. If variety is important to you, choose a model with these adjustable settings to better suit your preferences and needs.

✔️ Safety and health considerations: Always read the instruction manual before using a neck massager to ensure safe and effective use. If you have long hair, tie it back to avoid tangling, and never use a massager while driving, even if it includes a car adapter. If you experience chronic neck pain, consult a healthcare provider to ensure a neck massager is a safe addition to your wellness routine, and consider exploring other treatment options.

✔️ Instructions: Some of our testing panel members found shiatsu massagers challenging to position correctly, so we recommend reading the manual and watching any included instruction videos to ensure proper use. If the model you choose lacks detailed instructions, we suggest referencing the packaging, which often shows helpful positioning guidance.

Brandon Carte wrote this article. He has over a decade of experience testing and researching consumer products, from space heaters to robot vacuums. His thorough evaluations are based on hands-on testing, detailed comparisons and interviews with industry experts.

Danusia Wnek oversaw the testing for this guide. She is a Senior Chemist in the Beauty, Health, and Sustainability Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she tests and evaluates haircare, skincare, cosmetics, and beauty tools. She holds a B.S. in Chemistry from St. John’s University and an M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences with a concentration in Cosmetic Science from the University of Cincinnati. With over 10 years of experience in the personal care industry, Danusia's background includes formulation, product development, claims evaluation, and efficacy testing.

Stefani Sassos was consulted for this guide. She is a NASM-certified personal trainer and Women's Fitness Specialist with over 10 years of experience in the fitness industry. At the Good Housekeeping Institute, she leverages her expertise to create informed fitness content, from testing exercise equipment and apps to curating workout plans.