5 things to look out for when buying a massage chair for the first time
Pay attention to these so you don't waste your money and time
5 things to look out for when buying a massage chair for the first time
Pay attention to these so you don't waste your money and time
"The only affordable massage chair with full-body massages and features that rival high-end $10k chairs"
- Steven, USA
Verified
"Starlight plus is truly a godsend! My nagging back pain faded and I can sleep like a baby now!"
- Michelle, USA
Verified
"My mom absolutely loves Starlight Plus! Her neck and back pain improved, and she'd always take naps on it!"
- Anna, USA
Verified
Introduction
Introduction
Hey relaxation seekers! We're STERRA – a wellness tech brand dedicated to improving your home quality of life through premium, well-designed, and affordable products.
We believe that everyone deserves an affordable spa-like experience right at home. That's why we created affordable massage chairs with premium features and compact designs—all without the inflated price of big-name brands.
Our latest model is the Starlight Plus – which we designed to be the best-spec'd and best-value full-body massage chair on the market in 2025.
We equipped it with everything you need in a massage chair, including these five things you should look out for when you're buying one for the first time, and even unlocking our exclusive value-pack offer.
We equipped it with everything you need in a massage chair, including these five things you should look out for when you're buying one for the first time, and even unlocking our exclusive value-pack offer.
1. Price
This is the most important thing to consider.
Most massage chairs on the market are overpriced due to all the middlemen, unnecessary features, and inflated markups. Your typical, basic massage chair is going to cost over $5,000. A so-called “premium” chair can easily go for $10,000.
Most massage chairs on the market range from $4,000+ to $10,000+
Contrary to popular belief, a higher price doesn’t always mean better quality and performance. Many luxury chairs add gimmicky features like mood lighting or 20+ massage techniques that only serve to drive up the cost without much benefit.
On the flip side, going too cheap can also be a mistake. Many budget chairs under $2,000 cut corners by using cheap materials, weaker massage mechanisms, and outdated technology, leading to discomfort and frequent breakdowns.
The Starlight Plus cuts out all the middlemen by shipping from the warehouse straight to you; no showrooms, no markups. It also packs useful industry-leading features in a sleek, space-saving design for a market-beating $2,699 price.
Sterra ships directly from warehouse, passing the saving to you
This ultra-compact massage chair costs 25-75% less while sporting useful premium features that rival other top-of-the-line brands. Plus, our exclusive offer gives you an extra $798 in free value!
2. Full-body coverage
Next we'll look at the massage coverage.
And there are three main features that dictate a massage chair's coverage: SL-Track, full-body compression, and AI body scan.
A great massage chair should have have these 3 features to provide full-body coverage and head-to-toe relief, not just target a few pressure points.
SL-Track. Some chairs offer S-Track which follows the natural curve of your spine to provide relief for your back, while others offer L-Track which extends further down, targeting your hips and legs. An SL-Track system combines both to deliver a seamless, full-body massage which extends all the way from your neck down to your glutes and hamstrings.
Full-body compression. Massage rollers alone can’t do it all—that’s where full-body compression comes in. Strategically placed airbags gently squeeze your shoulders, arms, hips, calves, and feet, improving circulation and helping muscles recover faster. It’s like a therapeutic hug for your whole body, reducing tension and promoting relaxation from head to toe.
AI body scan. Every body is unique, and a one-size-fits-all massage just won't cut it. That's why AI body scan is a must-have. It detects your height, posture, and pressure points and adjusts the massage to fit you perfectly. Whether you need deeper pressure on your lower back or a gentler touch on the shoulders, the chair adapts to give you the perfect massage, every time.
3. Massage techniques
Not all massages are created equal. A basic chair just moves the rollers up and down—but if you want a truly spa-like massage, you need 3D or 4D massage technology combined with a variety of techniques to target different muscle groups and tension points.
Most budget chairs only offer 2D massage, meaning the rollers move either up and down or side to side. The Starlight Plus uses 3D massage technology, allowing the rollers to push deeper into your muscles for better tension relief.
There is also 4D massage technology on higher-end models that adjusts the roller speed and rhythm, but it comes at a much higher cost. For most of us, a well-designed 3D massage is more than enough, providing a deep and customizable spa-like experience without the added costs.
A well-designed 3D massage is more than enough for a deep spa-like experience
Most massage chairs only offer 3 to 5 basic massage techniques, which is simply not enough. For a personalized and well-rounded massage experience that suits your specific needs, aim for at least 6 massage techniques.
The Starlight Plus goes above and beyond with 8 expertly designed massage techniques to ensure you get the perfect massage every time.
4. Smart features
Getting a massage should be an effortless experience—you’re looking to relax, not fiddle with complicated controls.
Here's where smart features may come in handy. As mentioned, having too many “smart” features in a massage chair doesn’t bring much benefit; it just costs extra.
But we recommend that you look for these five useful features below that can actually enhance your massage experience: Touchscreen LCD, voice command, bluetooth speakers, phone holder + joystick controller, and phone charging.
A touchscreen LCD makes adjusting your massage settings quick and effortless. Life's too short to settle for clunky and confusing remotes—easily switch massage techniques, fine-tune intensity, and view all your settings at a glance with its sleek and intuitive display.
Too relaxed to reach for the controls? Just say the word, and your chair will adjust instantly. With built-in voice command, you get a completely hands-free experience, letting you switch settings, change techniques, or recline effortlessly—so you can stay fully immersed in relaxation.
The right soundtrack can enhances your massage, whether it’s calming spa music, a guided meditation, or even your favorite podcast. Bluetooth speakers deliver high-quality audio and create an immersive experience that helps you relax deeper and stay in the moment—no extra devices needed.
A great massage chair should double as the ultimate entertainment hub. With a phone holder and joystick controller, you can stream movies or scroll social media hands-free, staying fully relaxed without the hassle of holding your device or constantly lifting your arms.
Having the ultimate entertainment system is great, but what happens when your phone runs low on battery? A phone charging port keeps your device powered up throughout your massage so you can stream movies, scroll social media, or take calls—all without interruptions.
5. Space-saving design
Massage chairs are known for their space-hogging designs, often turning your living room into a mini massage parlor. Many models are bulky and require tons of clearance, making them hard to fit in apartments, bedrooms, or small living rooms.
That's why a compact, space-saving design is a must-have if you want the benefits of a full-body massage without compromising your living area.
Measuring at 56.2" L x 28.9" W x 39.5" H (upright), the Starlight Plus is a sleek and ultra-compact massage chair that fits in most interiors, allowing you to enjoy the ultimate relaxation experience while keeping your space clean, organized, and clutter-free.
6. Total relief
Most decent massage chairs come with hefty price tags, ranging from $4,000+ to $10,000+, and that’s before you even factor in additional costs. Want white-glove delivery? That'll be another $250 to $1,000, depending on your zip code. Looking for extra perks? None to be found.
Our goal at STERRA has always been to make relaxation and tension relief accessible to a wider group of people, which is why we're excited to introduce STERRA's Total Relief Bundle, making this cutting-edge massage chair accessible to everyone.
For just $2,699, you'll get:
The Starlight Plus Massage Chair for the ultimate tension relief
The Sterra Moon Air Purifier for complete allergy relief (worth $199)
Free White-glove Installation in your room of choice (worth $599)
With the Total Relief Bundle, you can save an extra $798 and unlock a lifetime of relief from the comfort of your own home.
1. Price
This is the most important thing to consider.
Most massage chairs on the market are overpriced due to all the middlemen, unnecessary features, and inflated markups. Your typical, basic massage chair is going to cost over $5,000. A so-called “premium” chair can easily go for $10,000.
Most massage chairs on the market range from $4,000+ to $10,000+
Contrary to popular belief, a higher price doesn’t always mean better quality and performance. Many luxury chairs add gimmicky features like mood lighting or 20+ massage techniques that only serve to drive up the cost without much benefit.
On the flip side, going too cheap can also be a mistake. Many budget chairs under $2,000 cut corners by using cheap materials, weaker massage mechanisms, and outdated technology, leading to discomfort and frequent breakdowns.
The Starlight Plus cuts out all the middlemen by shipping from the warehouse straight to you; no showrooms, no markups. It also packs useful industry-leading features in a sleek, space-saving design for a market-beating $2,699 price.
Sterra ships directly from warehouse, passing the saving to you
This ultra-compact massage chair costs 25-75% less while sporting useful premium features that rival other top-of-the-line brands. Plus, our exclusive offer gives you an extra $798 in free value!
2. Full-body coverage
Next we'll look at the massage coverage.
And there are three main features that dictate a massage chair's coverage: SL-Track, full-body compression, and AI body scan.
A great massage chair should have have these 3 features to provide full-body coverage and head-to-toe relief, not just target a few pressure points.
SL-Track. Some chairs offer S-Track which follows the natural curve of your spine to provide relief for your back, while others offer L-Track which extends further down, targeting your hips and legs. An SL-Track system combines both to deliver a seamless, full-body massage which extends all the way from your neck down to your glutes and hamstrings.
Full-body compression. Massage rollers alone can’t do it all—that’s where full-body compression comes in. Strategically placed airbags gently squeeze your shoulders, arms, hips, calves, and feet, improving circulation and helping muscles recover faster. It’s like a therapeutic hug for your whole body, reducing tension and promoting relaxation from head to toe.
AI body scan. Every body is unique, and a one-size-fits-all massage just won't cut it. That's why AI body scan is a must-have. It detects your height, posture, and pressure points and adjusts the massage to fit you perfectly. Whether you need deeper pressure on your lower back or a gentler touch on the shoulders, the chair adapts to give you the perfect massage, every time.
3. Massage techniques
Not all massages are created equal. A basic chair just moves the rollers up and down—but if you want a truly spa-like massage, you need 3D or 4D massage technology combined with a variety of techniques to target different muscle groups and tension points.
Most budget chairs only offer 2D massage, meaning the rollers move either up and down or side to side. The Starlight Plus uses 3D massage technology, allowing the rollers to push deeper into your muscles for better tension relief.
There is also 4D massage technology on higher-end models that adjusts the roller speed and rhythm, but it comes at a much higher cost. For most of us, a well-designed 3D massage is more than enough, providing a deep and customizable spa-like experience without the added costs.
A well-designed 3D massage is more than enough for a deep spa-like experience
Most massage chairs only offer 3 to 5 basic massage techniques, which is simply not enough. For a personalized and well-rounded massage experience that suits your specific needs, aim for at least 6 massage techniques.
The Starlight Plus goes above and beyond with 8 expertly designed massage techniques to ensure you get the perfect massage every time.
4. Smart convenient features
Getting a massage should be an effortless experience—you’re looking to relax, not fiddle with complicated controls.
Here's where smart features may come in handy. As mentioned, having too many “smart” features in a massage chair doesn’t bring much benefit; it just costs extra.
But we recommend that you look for these five useful features below that can actually enhance your massage experience: Touchscreen LCD, voice command, bluetooth speakers, phone holder + joystick controller, and phone charging.
A touchscreen LCD makes adjusting your massage settings quick and effortless. Life's too short to settle for clunky and confusing remotes—easily switch massage techniques, fine-tune intensity, and view all your settings at a glance with its sleek and intuitive display.
Too relaxed to reach for the controls? Just say the word, and your chair will adjust instantly. With built-in voice command, you get a completely hands-free experience, letting you switch settings, change techniques, or recline effortlessly—so you can stay fully immersed in relaxation.
The right soundtrack can enhances your massage, whether it’s calming spa music, a guided meditation, or even your favorite podcast. Bluetooth speakers deliver high-quality audio and create an immersive experience that helps you relax deeper and stay in the moment—no extra devices needed.
A great massage chair should double as the ultimate entertainment hub. With a phone holder and joystick controller, you can stream movies or scroll social media hands-free, staying fully relaxed without the hassle of holding your device or constantly lifting your arms.
Having the ultimate entertainment system is great, but what happens when your phone runs low on battery? A phone charging port keeps your device powered up throughout your massage so you can stream movies, scroll social media, or take calls—all without interruptions.
5. Space-saving design
Massage chairs are known for their space-hogging designs, often turning your living room into a mini massage parlor. Many models are bulky and require tons of clearance, making them hard to fit in apartments, bedrooms, or small living rooms.
That's why a compact, space-saving design is a must-have if you want the benefits of a full-body massage without compromising your living area.
Measuring at 56.2" L x 28.9" W x 39.5" H (upright), the Starlight Plus is a sleek and ultra-compact massage chair that fits in most interiors, allowing you to enjoy the ultimate relaxation experience while keeping your space clean, organized, and clutter-free.
6. Total relief
Most decent massage chairs come with hefty price tags, ranging from $4,000+ to $10,000+, and that’s before you even factor in additional costs. Want white-glove delivery? That'll be another $250 to $1,000, depending on your zip code. Looking for extra perks? None to be found.
Our goal at STERRA has always been to make relaxation and tension relief accessible to a wider group of people, which is why we're excited to introduce STERRA's Total Relief Bundle, making this cutting-edge massage chair accessible to everyone.
For just $2,699, you'll get:
The Starlight Plus Massage Chair for the ultimate tension relief
The Sterra Moon Air Purifier for complete allergy relief (worth $199)
Free White-glove Installation in your room of choice (worth $599)
With the Total Relief Bundle, you can save an extra $798 and unlock a lifetime of relief from the comfort of your own home.
How the top brands compare
How the top brands compare
We designed the Starlight Plus to be the best massage chair offer on the market today.
We gave it excellent specs, a sleek and ultra-compact design, and the features and extra perks you'll need for the complete hands-free full-body relaxation experience— all at an ultra-competitive price.
Some highlights of our offer:
Just $2,699 for the Starlight Plus massage chair
Comes with a free Sterra Moon air purifier (worth $199)
Free white-glove installation in your room of choice (worth $599)
Express delivery
World-class customer support
A lifetime of relief
If you want the full details, check out the table below. It summarizes all the key things to look out for when choosing a massage chair, and shows how the Starlight Plus compares to other top massage chair brands in the US.
The information in this chart is accurate at the time of writing, and is based on the information found on each brand's official website.
Contents
Introduction
1. Price
2. Full-body coverage
3. Massage techniques
4. Smart convenient features
5. Space-saving design
6. Total Relief
How the top brands compare
Free white-glove installation
Free Sterra Moon air purifier
Free white-glove installation
Free Sterra Moon air purifier
"The only affordable massage chair with full-body massages and features that rival high-end $10k chairs"
- Steven, USA
Verified
"Starlight plus is truly a godsend! My nagging back pain faded and I can sleep like a baby now!"
- Michelle, USA
Verified
"My mom absolutely loves Starlight Plus! Her neck and back pain improved, and she'd always take naps on it!"
- Anna, USA
Verified