When it comes to home massage chairs, there’s a lot more than just sitting back and pressing a button. Different chairs use different massage methods, and each one feels—and works - a little differently. If you’ve ever wondered what all the fuss is about, let’s break down the main types: roller massage, airbag massage, vibration massage and sound wave massage.

Roller Massage - Hands-On Feeling Without the Hands

Roller massage is probably the closest you’ll get to a traditional massage without leaving your house. Mechanical rollers move up and down your back, sometimes even along your neck or legs, mimicking the kneading and pressing of a massage therapist’s hands.

(Real Relax Favor-06) SL track rollers vs S track rollers (Real Relax Favor-03 ADV)

Why people love it:

• Targets deep tissue and stubborn knots

• Relieves chronic back and neck tension

• Feels like a real human massage

A few things to know:

• Mostly focuses on your back, so arms and calves might get left out

• Some people find it a bit intense at first

In short, if you want the feeling of a hands-on massage, rollers are a solid pick.

Gentle Squeeze for Circulation with Airbag Massage

Airbag massage works a bit differently. Instead of rollers, inflatable airbags wrap around areas like your shoulders, arms, hips and legs. They squeeze and release in a rhythmic pattern, giving a compression-style massage.

Real Relax PS5200 Full Body Air Massage

Best for:

• Boosting blood circulation

• Reducing limb fatigue or swelling

• Stress relief and overall relaxation

What to keep in mind:

• Airbag massage is more surface-level; it doesn’t dig deep into knots

• The feeling is more like a hug than a deep tissue massage

It’s perfect for those who want comfort and relaxation without the intensity of deep rollers.

Buzz Away Muscle Tension with Vibration Massage

Vibration massage uses small motors to create gentle vibrations that stimulate your muscles and nerves. It’s a different sensation than rollers or airbags - a buzzing or shivering feeling that helps loosen tight spots.

Real Relax massage rollers also create vibration massage (Model: Real Relax BS-02)

Why it works well:

• Helps relax muscles after workouts

• Reduces stiffness in targeted areas

• Improves circulation

Limitations:

• Less effective for deep knots

• More of a “gentle shake” than a full hands-on massage

Vibration massage is a nice middle ground—less intense than rollers but still effective for keeping muscles loose.

Relaxation Through Vibration You Can Feel with 

Sound Wave Massage

Sound wave massage is newer and a bit more high-tech. It uses low-frequency sound vibrations to stimulate muscles and tissues, often working through the chair itself. The sensation is a rhythmic pulsing that you feel through your back, seat, and sometimes shoulders.

Roller Massage vs Roller+Sound wave massage

Good for:

• Stress relief and overall relaxation

• Soothing tense muscles

• Mild circulation boost

Things to know:

• Feels gentler than rollers

• Not ideal for really stubborn knots or deep tissue work

If you’re looking for a relaxing, almost “vibrational” experience that calms your whole body, sound wave massage is worth trying.

Quick Comparison Table

How to Choose the Right Type for You

Choosing the right massage method really comes down to what you’re after.

• Want deep muscle relief? Go for roller massage. It gets into the knots.

• Looking for gentle, full-body relaxation? Airbags provide a comforting squeeze.

• Need a post-workout loosener? Vibration massage will help your muscles recover.

• Want something calming and unique? Sound wave massage can feel like a gentle wave of relaxation.

The good news is you don’t always have to pick just one. Many chairs combine these techniques so you can switch it up depending on your mood or need.

Every massage style has its perks, and the best one depends on your body and what you want out of it. Rollers dig deep, airbags hug and soothe, vibration loosens muscles and sound waves calm and relax. Some people mix and match throughout the day - rollers after a long workday, airbags in the evening to chill out, and sound waves when you just want to vibe.

No matter which you choose, a massage chair can turn your home into a mini spa and keep your muscles happy.