Best Handheld Massager Reviews: Top 8 for 2023

The best handheld massager can offer a high-quality massage at an affordable price. If you have issues with your back or neck, you should consider using one to ease the tension. Experts agree that a massage can offer relief from a variety of different problems. Unfortunately, many people can’t afford to go to a professional massage parlor as often as they’d like.

Home massage chairs can be large and expensive, so having one of the best handheld massagers available on hand makes a great alternative. They can offer similar therapeutic benefits as a professional massage at a fraction of the price.

Name	Rating	Price	More Details
Thumper Mini Pro 2	4.3 / 5	$$$	More details! Click Here
Core 3401 Jeanie	4.5 / 5	$$$	More details! Click Here
HoMedics HHP-350	3.7 / 5	$	More details! Click Here
Thumper E501 Sport	4.2 / 5	$$$	More details! Click Here
Panasonic EV2510K	4.3 / 5	$	More details! Click Here
Medi-Rub 2000 Plus	4.7 / 5	$$$	More details! Click Here
Thumper Maxi Pro	4.4 / 5	$$$$	More details! Click Here
TheraRUB Percussion Electric Massager	4.3	$$$	More details! Click Here

Many people enjoy using a massager because they don’t have to travel anywhere to get their massage. If you suffer from chronic back pain, simply traveling to a masseur can be a drawn-out and painful experience. Now you can use a handheld massager in the comfort of your own bedroom.

The Health Benefits of a Massage

While it’s true that a massage can treat aches and soreness effectively, not many people know that a massage can offer a variety of other health benefits.

Stimulate the Lymph

A massage will stimulate your lymphatic system, which can help move toxins out of your body. Your lymphatic system relies on your everyday movements to function properly, so a massage will help process a significant amount of toxins.

Stimulating the lymphatic system will also improve your immune system as a whole. Your body has a higher number of white blood vessels after a massage, which will fight harmful bacteria and viruses in your body.

Improve Circulation

Even a simple back and head massage can offer a host of benefits. A massage will improve your circulation, and stimulate blood flow throughout your body. If you suffer from hypertension, then a massage can help normalize your blood pressure after a stressful day.

Relax Before Bed

Experts recommend having a massage before you go to bed and this is where having one of the best handheld massagers on hand will come in handy. They will relax your muscles, which makes it much easier to fall asleep.

Best Handheld Massager Reviews for 2020

1. Thumper Mini Pro 2 Handheld Massager

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The Thumper Mini Pro 2 offers all of the features of a full-sized massage chair in a handheld device. You can give any part of your body a thorough massage using the Thumper’s advanced kneading motors. You can even massage your back. The device comes with a special elongated handle that allows you to easily reach the length of your spine.

Extra long 12-foot power cord
Easy to grip handle
3 computer-controlled power settings
Built from durable plastic with some metal components
Lightweight and easy to store
The handle is long enough for the user to give themselves a back massage

What’s to Like About the Thumper Mini Pro 2

The Thumper Mini Pro 2 has a powerful internal motor that can reach deep aches and pains. The handheld device is similar to muscle relaxation machines used by professional physical therapists and athletes. The Thumper is powerful enough to release tension and muscle stiffness without weighing too much.

The device weighs 3 pounds in total, which is significantly less than the average portable handheld massager.

You can take it with you almost anywhere. If you’re hunched over a desk all day, the Thumper is a great way to stretch out your muscles during your break. Take it with you to work, the gym, or leave it in your car. It’s a good idea to have a portable massager with you if you need a massage on the go.

What’s Not to Like

Some customers have reported that they have difficulty changing the device’s settings. The manufacturer recommends running through the different speed settings when you first receive the device to loosen up the switch.

Final Word

The Thumper Mini Pro 2 is an excellent option if you’re looking for a portable handheld massager. Over 80 percent of all reviewers give the device a rating of 4 or more out of 5 , and over 65 percent give it five.

2. Core 3401 Jeanie Handheld Massager

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A consumer version of a popular medical-grade handheld massager, the Core 3401 Jeanie is a great choice if you want a professional massage at home. Many physical therapists use the Core Jeanie to help improve blood flow and stimulate the lymphatic system. Many athletes and trainers also like using the device after long practices to help ease tight muscles.

Oscillating movement improves blood circulation
Can reduce deep muscle pain
Weighs less than 7 pounds
Made from high-quality materials
Manufactured in the United States of America
Operates at 3,240 RPM

What’s to Like About the Core 3401 Jeanie

The Core Jeanie has a wide variety of different speed settings and massage types. You can attach different heads to the deluxe oscillating massage heads to make your massage more comfortable. The regular pad is made from a premium-grade vinyl material, and you can attach fleece and sheepskin massage pads to help the massager glide over your body.

The Jeanie has a very sturdy design, which will help it last for a long time. The device’s frame is made from high-impact metal that won’t bend or break after years of massage sessions.

What’s Not to Like

You need a second person to use the device on your back. You can use it on your legs and other areas by yourself, but places like your back, arms, and neck can be difficult to massage by yourself.

Final Word

The Core 3401 Jeanie is a great professional-grade handheld massager at a consumer-grade price. Many people enjoy using the device and would recommend it to a friend. Over 85 percent of all reviewers give the device a rating of 4 or more, and over 70 percent give it 5 out of 5.

3. HoMedics HHP-350 Handheld Massager

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The HoMedics HHP-350 is an easily portable handheld massager that uses a special percussion system to deliver an enhanced massage. The device’s percussion heads penetrate deep below your skin and treat muscles that are difficult to get to. If you suffer from chronic back pain, the HoMedics HHP-350 can offer relief.

Percussion action massager
Two pivoting heads
Multiple speed settings
Comes with three custom massage attachments
The handle is easy to hold
Can be used on your back

What’s to Like About the HoMedics HHP-350

The HoMedics HHP-350 comes with a variety of different settings, so you can customize the massage to suit your needs. Along with the speed settings, you can use different massage heads depending on what type of relief you need. The heads come in firm, gentle, and soothing heat. The soothing heat massage is an excellent option for general massages.

The handheld massager has a long handle, so you can use it by yourself. You can reach nearly anywhere on your body and apply enough pressure to get a great massage. The device only weighs 2.5 pounds, so your arms won’t get tired from giving yourself a long massage.

What’s Not to Like

Some reviewers have mentioned that the device is very powerful and can hurt if you don’t use it properly. If you’re not familiar with percussion massagers, the manufacturer recommends using the device over a thick shirt or towel. This will give you some extra padding and make the massage feel more relaxing.

Final Word

The HoMedics HHP-350 is a good option for any kind of user. Over 60 percent of customers give the device a rating of 4 or more, and over 40 percent give it 5 out of 5 which is not as good as some of the other options.

4. Thumper E501 Sport Handheld Massager

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If you’re looking for a reliable percussive massager, the Thumper E501 Sport is a great option. The device uses advanced massage nodes to penetrate deep into your muscles to relieve tension at the source. Use the device on your neck and back to relieve chronic pain and ease stress after a long day at work.

If you do a lot of physical activity during the day, the Thumper E501 Sport can help get you back in good condition in no time.

Uses advanced percussive massage technology
Penetrates deep to reach tense muscle tissue
Excellent build quality
Similar to models used by sports therapists
Variable speed controls
Great for treating chronic pain and sports injuries

What’s to Like About the Thumper E501 Sport

The Thumper comes packed with professional-grade equipment that will deliver a thorough massage at an affordable price point. The Thumper Sport edition is designed to have all of the same features as a professional sports therapist’s handheld massager. If you want to recover from your workouts quicker, you should try using the Thumper.

After about 15 minutes of use, you’ll feel much more relaxed. The Thumper will help improve your blood flow and stimulate your lymphatic system.

What’s Not to Like

The device doesn’t have a very long cord, so it can be difficult to use if you’re not near a plug. If you take the device on a trip, it might not be as much of a problem.

Final Word

Whether you’re looking for an after-workout massage or a post-work stress reliever, the Thumper E501 Sport is a great choice. Nearly 80 percent of all reviewers give the device a rating of 4 or more, and 60 percent give it 5 out of 5 which is pretty decent.

5. Panasonic EV2510K Handheld Massager

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One of the best handheld massagers made by Panasonic, the EV2510K is an excellent addition to any home spa. The Panasonic offers a thorough massage that will help relieve stress and improve your health overall. The special massage rollers make it easy to give yourself a massage from almost any position. It’s also a great device for giving a massage to someone else.

Offers three different vibration systems
Designed to be used anywhere on your body
Features a point massage mode
Vibrates up to 6,300 times per minutes
Compact design makes it easy to transport
Doesn’t use very much power

What’s to Like About the Panasonic EV2510K

The EV2510K has a vibrating massage feature that helps increase blood circulation while offering a host of other benefits. The three different massage settings can be used to relieve stiffness in problem areas without chaffing the skin.

The Panasonic Easy Reach massage rollers offer a gentle massage motion that you can use on your arms and legs to get an optimal massage anytime of the day. Have a quick massage in the morning to start your day feeling loose, or end a long day with a relaxing roller massage.

What’s Not to Like

The device has several unusual massage functions that the average person might not have a use for. However, these settings are useful for performing point massages in hard-to-reach problem areas.

Final Word

The Panasonic EV2510K is a well-rounded device with a host of advanced features, which makes it a great option for any user. Over 80 percent of users give the device a rating of 4 or more, and over 55 percent give it 5 out of 5 which is very good.

6. Medi-Rub 2000 Plus Handheld Massager

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The Medi-Rub 2000 Plus features a special two-handed design that makes it an excellent option if you want to give a massage to someone else or have someone give you a massage. The device has a powerful 2-speed motor that can help relieve tension and stress after a few short sessions. The device is easy to clean and has a maintenance-free design. All you have to do to keep it in tip-top shape is clean off the exterior.

2-speed motor
Quiet operation
Made in the United States of America
Weighs less than 6 pounds
Maintenance-free design
Many aftermarket pads are available

What’s to Like About the Medi-Rub 2000 Plus

The Medi-Rub 2000 Plus was developed for chiropractors and physical therapists, so it comes packed with advanced medical-grade technology. The device is great for treating joint and muscle pain, so it’s a must-have for anyone who suffers from chronic backaches.

The device can deliver a high-quality massage in a short amount of time. It only takes about 5 minutes to give a great foot massage and less than 20 minutes to give a relaxing back massage. At the longest, it will only take 30 minutes to work the stiffness out of sore areas.

What’s Not to Like

It can be difficult to use the device on yourself. If you have another person to operate the massager while you lay down, you can have a professional massage in the comfort of your own home.

Final Word

The Medi-Rub 2000 Plus is one of the best handheld massager options if you want to give your significant other a professional massage without going to see a physical therapist or masseur. Nearly 85 percent of all reviewers give the device a rating of 4 or more, and over 70 percent give it 5 out of 5 which is very impressive.

7. Thumper Maxi Pro Handheld Massager

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The Maxi Pro is the newest addition to Thumper Massager catalog. The device was designed to suit the needs of doctors, chiropractors, massage therapists, and professional athletes, so it comes with all of the latest massage features. The device is great for treating muscle aches and tension anywhere in the body. It’s especially good at relieving muscle tension that builds up along the spine and lower back.

Medical-grade technology
Special massage spheres can treat all muscle groups
Doesn’t need any attachments to work properly
Dual handles make the device easy to hold
Weighs significantly less than the average
Runs on less than 100 watts

What’s to Like About the Thumper Maxi Pro

The Thumper Maxi Pro manages to stay powerful without weighing too much or using an excessive amount of electricity. If you’re going on a trip with your significant other, you should consider bringing the Maxi Pro with you. It can offer relief from chronic back pain while you’re traveling without taking up too much space in your luggage.

The Thumper Maxi Pro uses a percussive thumping action to knead stiff areas, which makes it a great option for athletes. One of the best ways to restore your muscles after a long workout is with a massage. The thumping action offers a deeper and more satisfying massage than a simple vibrating massager.

What’s Not to Like

The massager can be difficult to use on your own. You can massage your legs, feet, and sides easily, but other areas can be hard to reach. It’s recommended that someone else give the massage while you lie on your front and relax.

Final Word

The Thumper Maxi Pro is popular with users everywhere. Nearly 85 percent of reviewers give the device a rating of 4 or higher, and over 70 percent give it 5 out of 5 making it one of the best handheld massagers we have reviewed.

8. TheraRUB Percussion Electric Massager

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Coming with a set of three massage heads, allowing you to enjoy a variety of therapies, this electric massager is versatile while also offering an exceptional level of quality. This makes it perfect for people who want to relieve muscle tension or those who simply want to enjoy a massage every so often but can’t afford a massage therapist.

With a long power cord and variable speed, this electric massager has everything that you need to enjoy your massage without having to make much effort at all. It is advertised as offering “professional strength,” which is exactly what you will get on the highest settings.

The 14 foot power cord allows you to reach clients or your own body with ease.
Comes with 3 additional massager heads.
Massage speed can be set to any level that you want.
Rubberized grip makes it exceptionally easy to keep hold of when in use.
High power settings offer a deep massage that will leave all users satisfied.

What’s To Like About The TheraRUB® Electric Massager

The cost of the massager has been praised, with a number of people pointing out that it costs much less than many equivalent devices, while still offering a high level of service. Its power has also been enjoyed by many.

What’s Not To Like

Some people have experienced issues with the massage heads, claiming that they do not fit to the massager very well, resulting in slipping and poor massages. However, this appears to be a manufacturing issue and those who spoke to customer support found it was easy to get a refund or replacement.

Final Word

This is an excellent choice for those who are looking to get an electric massager without spending a huge amount of money. The device currently has a 4.3 out of 5 rating, with most customers being delighted by the quality of massage and variable power levels.

Choosing from the Best Handheld Massager Reviews

Before you purchase a massager, figure out which type will give you the most relief. Vibrating and percussive massagers are very popular, but each delivers very different massage experiences. If you suffer from deep back pain and muscle stiffness, you should consider getting a percussive massager. A vibrating massager is better for relaxing and stimulating blood flow.

Some of the best handheld massagers combine both features, which make them an excellent option if you want to use your massager for a variety of different applications. Some high-end massagers apply infrared heat when they’re massaging, which can significantly reduce back pain and muscle stiffness.

Here are the top 3 we would recommend. The Thumper Mini Pro 2 Handheld Massager. the Core 3401 Jeanie Handheld Massager and the Panasonic EV2510K Handheld Massager.

5 Way to Use a Handheld Massager

One of the best investments you may ever make in yourself, and your health, and in your ability to relax and unwind after a truly difficult day has to be a handheld massager unit.

These amazing little devices have come a really long way from the early models that were imported from Japan and purchased by women for reasons that had next to nothing to do with a massage (but absolutely everything to do with getting plenty of pleasure) and are today capable of replicating an almost identical quality of massage delivered by professional masseuses that have been training for years and years.

Seriously. The technology that goes into these amazing little device is absolutely second to none, and if you use it appropriately and with some real conscious effort you’re going to be able to walk away all of the stress and pressure that you’ve been dealing with without having to drop hundreds of dollars on massage sessions at the spa.

It doesn’t get much better than that.

To make the most of your new handheld massager, though, you’re going to need to make sure that you take advantage of the five tips and tricks we’re going to highlight for you below. Keep these bits and pieces of information in mind and you’ll be rocking and rolling with your new massager in no time.

Let’s dive right in!

1. Trial run this unit on ALL of the different settings

There are lots and lots of folks out there that have started to play around with their new handheld massager and fallen in love with one massage setting and one specific approach, and then kind of get locked into that routine without ever really experimenting with the other settings and features this device brings to the table.

Don’t ever let that happen to you!

Right out of the box you’re going to want to play around with as many different settings, massage styles of pressure levels, and approaches to use this massager as you can so that you become completely comfortable with EVERYTHING this massager is capable of.

It will make a world of difference in the quality and variety of the massages you’re able to give yourself.

2. Massage your body from head to toe on a regular basis

There are definitely going to be days when you only have the urge – or the time – to pull out your handheld massager and hammer away at your feet, your legs, and maybe your back, but if you are able to set aside a single day of week to give yourself a full body massage with your handheld unit you’ll really notice a major difference in no time at all.

Set aside and our and start at your feet, working your way up to your neck and the base of your head just as slowly as you’re able to. Hit every nook and cranny on your body and you’ll have physically feel all of the tension and pressure leave the muscles that you work on as you zoom around.

3. Get someone to help you out

Hitting all of the key areas of your body – especially the really tight and tension filled areas on your back – can be almost impossible when you’re the only one that’s “steering the boat”, so to speak.

It definitely isn’t a bad idea to offer to exchange giving someone else a massage with your handheld massager if they are in turn willing to work on the areas that you can’t hit. You’ll both be able to cover the body more effectively and you’ll both walk away feeling much more rested and relaxed.

4. Work it into your workout recovery program

One of the best things you can do to make the most of a handheld massager is to use it in conjunction with stretching right after your workouts.

This is when your body is going to be the stiffest, when it’s going to need to have circulation improved, and if you’re able to target your muscle groups that have been worked out to the max within 12 hours of that exercise you’ll be able to speed up your recovery process significantly.

5. Don’t be shy about working at this massager into the bedroom

There is a reason why that these handheld massagers were purchased in bulk volumes by women all over the world when they were first released, and a lot of it had next to nothing to do with massaging their feet or their shoulders!

You might want to ask your significant other how they’d like to work one of these massagers into the bedroom. Just don’t be surprised if it becomes a staple!