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We Tested the Best Massage Tables—These 10 Help Us Relax and Relieve Stress
After 8 hours of massages, our editors and licensed massage therapists agree these massage tables are standouts
Massage is a vital part of a healthy workout routine, says Jeffrey Dreon, a licensed massage therapist, and having a good massage table is a key component of the overall experience. He also says moving the fascia—the layer of connective tissue underneath the skin—is beneficial for relieving trigger points, loosening tight muscles, and milking out lactic acid to help with soreness. Dawn Lovell, a licensed massage therapist, adds that regular massage helps improve mood, stimulates circulation and recovery after workouts, and helps with digestive issues.
Whether you're buying a massage table for your home so you can use it after a heavy session on your elliptical machine or for a massage therapy business, a good massage table should be easy to use, adjustable, and (of course) comfortable. To find the best massage tables on the market, we consulted licensed massage therapists for their advice on key features to look for when shopping. We then tested 13 top-rated massage tables in The Verywell Testing Lab and evaluated them for ease of setup, adjustability, comfort, and overall value. We also had a physical therapist and RRCA-certified run coach from our Review Board review this article for accuracy surrounding what to look for when purchasing a massage table, how to set one up, and the differences between Swedish and deep tissue massage.
- Ease of Setup5/5
- Adjustability5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Overall Value5/5
Quick and easy setup
Heating element
Storage in table for extra parts
Too heavy to be portable
Key Specs
Height Range: 24–34 inches | Style: Stationary | Working Weight Capacity: 1500 pounds | Weight: 35 pounds | Dimensions: 31 x 84 inches | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who It's For
Best for users who want a high-quality, durable, and permanent setup.
Why We Love It
Master Massage’s Santana table is our top overall pick because we love its seamless setup, soft comfort, great adjustability, and overall value. It's the ideal massage table for beginners since setup only took three minutes—plus, it’s wide, which is great for accommodating all body sizes. We love the table's heating element, which helps our muscles relax even more during a massage. The cushioned padding and headrest also make it very comfortable.
We like that the table is reliably sturdy and durable. After working with this table during our test, licensed massage therapist Betty Hastie says this pick has everything you need in a quality massage table—both for the therapist and for the customer. We think it's a great table for at-home use and one of the best wellness investments you can make.
Potential Flaws
- We found this table too heavy to be portable, so it's best for users who will keep it in one place without having to move it around between uses.
Most Valuable Insight
"I felt like I was drifting on a cloud. When the massage table was heated after the heating element was plugged in, it felt like I was floating." —Donna Freydkin, Associate Director and Verywell Fit product tester
The Master Massage Santana Portable Massage Table Package offers exceptional comfort, thanks to its cushioned padding and well-made headrest. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This massage table sets up within a few minutes and offers storage for extra parts on its underside. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This high-quality massage table has a relaxing heating element, which is easily adjusted using the included remote control. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This massage table is durable, easy to adjust, and wide, allowing it to work well for many individuals. Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Best Overall Runner-Up
EARTHLITE Portable Massage Table LUNA
- Ease of Setup5/5
- Adjustability5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Overall Value4/5
Quick and easy setup
Lightweight
Comfortable
No additional features beyond the basics
Key Specs
Height Range: 24–33 inches | Style: Portable | Working Weight Capacity: 750 pounds | Weight: 29 pounds | Dimensions: 30 x 73 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who It's For
Best for users who want a high-quality, portable, basic table.
Why We Love It
Our on-site massage therapists agreed that Earthlite tables are best-in-class, noting that the Luna table is their favorite. Dreon likes this pick because it's easily adjustable, super lightweight, and sturdy, the perfect size for all bodies, and comfortable for both client and therapist. And with a 2.5-minute setup, it's great for portable use, especially if you're feeling sore after a workout and need a last-minute massage.
We love that the table is nice and cushioned, with a soft, firm feel and easy-to-clean leather-like material that doesn’t stick to the skin. Plus, the massage table feels comfortable enough to sleep on, is easy to set up and transport, and is stable. We think it's a good value because, at an average price compared to the rest of our list, it’s truly an above-average massage table.
Potential Flaws
- While we think this table is an overall great choice, it's worth noting there are no additional features beyond the basics, like heating or built-in storage.
Most Valuable Insight
"I felt like I was getting ready to start a deep sleep. I sank into the cushion of the table and released any stress or tension in my body. I was truly relieved of any stress." —Stephanie Cornwell, Verywell Fit product tester
The EARTHLITE Portable Massage Table LUNA feels soft and supportive for the user, thanks to its thick cushioning. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This high-quality massage table is a breeze to set up and is lightweight enough to transport easily. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
Once set up, this comfortable massage table feels stable and is very easy to adjust based on the user’s needs. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This massage table’s headrest is exceptionally cushioned, providing the user with incredible support. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This massage table is wide enough to work well for many individuals, plus, its wipeable material makes it easy to clean after use. Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Best Budget
Yaheetech Portable Adjustable Massage Table
- Ease of Setup4/5
- Adjustability4/5
- Comfort4.5/5
- Overall Value5/5
Storage in table for extra parts
Comes with armrests
Lightweight
Long setup process
Low weight capacity
Key Specs
Height Range: 25.2–33.7 inches | Style: Portable | Working Weight Capacity: 220 pounds | Weight: 38.1 pounds | Dimensions: 24 x 84 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5
Who It's For
Best for beginners or anyone who needs a portable table on a budget.
Why We Love It
Yaheetech's Portable Adjustable Massage Table is a budget-friendly table ideal for beginner or short-term use. While it took some time, the setup was intuitive and didn't require any tools. We love how comfortable the table is—it felt cushy and supportive during a short, medium-pressure massage.
The table is height-adjustable and comes in two different widths, so you can get the perfect fit. And we like that the cushion is available in six different colors. If you're not looking to spend a fortune and just want a decent table that works, this is a good pick.
Potential Flaws
- This table has a lower weight capacity than most others on our list.
- The setup took a little longer than the other tables we tested.
Most Valuable Insight
"I felt great. For a 15-minute massage, it was perfect. I believe that if you're not looking to spend a fortune on a decent table that works, this is a good pick." —Ivy Ford, Verywell Fit product tester
The Yaheetech Portable Adjustable Massage Table feels comfortable and supportive, plus it’s available in two different width options. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This portable massage table is height adjustable, allowing it to work well for many different users. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This budget-friendly massage table takes some time to set up properly, however, no tools are needed. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This massage table offers great, firm support to the user, however, its weight capacity is on the lower end, maxing out at around 220 pounds. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This massage table’s cushion is available in six different color options, plus, it comes with armrests for added comfort. Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Best for All Sizes
Earthlite Avalon Massage Table
- Ease of Setup5/5
- Adjustability5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Overall Value4/5
Adjustable headrest
Stable legs
Storage in table for extra parts
No additional features beyond the basics
Key Specs
Height Range: 23-33 inches | Style: Portable | Working Weight Capacity: 750 pounds | Weight: 33 pounds | Dimensions: 30 x 73 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who It's For
Best for anyone needing a supportive table that's versatile enough for a range of body sizes.
Why We Love It
It’s important that a massage table be the proper size for clients of all shapes and sizes, Lovell says. Earthlite's Avalon table is 30 inches wide, 73 inches long, up to 33 inches tall, and can support up to 750 pounds in working weight—making it comfortable for everyone. We like that the table is available in five different colors and has a stylish look, so it won't be an eyesore when it's sitting out.
Setup was a breeze, and the cushioned headrest and sturdy legs were easy to adjust, The table is the perfect combination of soft and supportive—when getting our massage, we felt comfortable without feeling squished, even as the therapist applied strong pressure to our tight muscles. We found the face cushion to be extra soft and roomy and it made it easy for us to relax. We think this is a high-quality, versatile table from a brand that experts love.
Potential Flaws
- This table is a basic model, meaning it has no additional features like heating or vibration.
Most Valuable Insight
"This is clearly a well-made table, and the wood and faux leather felt like quality materials. I also enjoyed the purple color. " —Sabrina Weiss, Senior Commerce Editor and Verywell Fit product tester
The Earthlite Avalon Massage Table feels soft and supportive, and the headrest provides a roomier, plush feel. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This massage table is very easy to set up and lightweight enough to transport in its included carrying bag. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
While it doesn’t offer features, like heating, this massage table feels high-quality, and can comfortably support up to 750 pounds. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This massage table’s cushioned headrest offers exceptional comfort to the user, plus, it is adjustable. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This well-made massage table has sturdy, wooden legs and comes in five different color options, including purple. Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Most Stable
Sierra Comfort Portable Massage Table
- Ease of Setup4.5/5
- Adjustability4.5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Overall Value5/5
Has a safety bar for added stability
Budget-friendly
Comfortable headrest
Low weight capacity
Safety bar makes setup longer
Key Specs
Height Range: 25.5–33.5 inches | Style: Portable | Working Weight Capacity: 400 pounds | Weight: 30 pounds | Dimensions: 28 x 73 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who It's For
Best for users who want a sturdy table that doesn't need to be moved often.
Why We Love It
Sierra Comfort’s massage table is incredibly sturdy, thanks to its unique safety bars. Our on-site therapists said this was a feature they hadn’t seen before but that was very handy in avoiding unwanted wobbling. Assembly was fairly easy and intuitive and didn't require any tools.
We like that there are nine height adjustments, and a fitted sheet and face pillow sheet are also included. For its reasonable price, the table is well-padded and comfortable. We feel relaxed and supported, even when massage therapists apply deep pressure during a massage. Overall, we enjoy this table for a secure, restorative experience.
Potential Flaws
- Safety bars are a great addition, but they did add time to the setup and you have to uninstall and reinstall them when changing the height of the table.
- While not the lowest weight capacity on our list, it does have a lower capacity than many other tables.
Most Valuable Insight
"I felt fantastic—aside from the massage itself, the table and headrest were comfortable, with plenty of support and cushioning." —Lucy Silberman, Verywell Fit product tester
The Sierra Comfort Portable Massage Table feels well-cushioned and supportive, providing a working weight capacity of up to 400 pounds. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This massage table weighs about 30 pounds, folds up nicely, and can be readily moved to different locations. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This massage table features stabilizing safety bars, however, they do increase the time it takes to set up. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This massage table’s headrest has thick cushioning, providing the user with comfortable, firm support. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This budget-friendly massage table comes with a high-quality fitted sheet and soft face pillow sheet. Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
- Ease of Setup5/5
- Adjustability3.5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Overall Value5/5
Adjustable vibration and heat
Wide and long enough for different sizes
Easy setup
Requires access to an outlet
Too heavy to be portable
Key Specs
Height Range: 23–33 inches | Style: Stationary | Working Weight Capacity: 600 pounds | Weight: 43 pounds | Dimensions: 30 x 73 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who It's For
Best for athletes and regular exercisers who need the added therapies of heat and vibration.
Why We Love It
If you’re looking for immersive, total-body relaxation, we recommend Earthlite's Therapy Table. With both heating and vibration features, the table warms your muscles as your therapist works them. We love this pick for its unique, soothing capabilities. The vibration can be set in continuous, pulse, or wave mode at six different intensities, and the heat feature has three different zones for targeted treatment, making it easier for us to relax specific muscles.
Despite its added components, the table was easy to set up, taking under four minutes. It's comfortable, too—cushioned and soft, yet firm and supportive. We find it easy to relax when lying on the table because it feels super sturdy. And we like that the heating and vibration features can be controlled and adjusted with the included remote.
Potential Flaws
- The added features of this table make it heavy and not very portable.
- The heat and vibration features require the table to be set up near an outlet.
Most Valuable Insight
"This table was super comfortable. It felt very cushioned. It wasn't too soft or too hard. I felt firm, secure, and free to spread my body comfortably across the table." —Chantia Murphy, Verywell Fit product tester
The Earthlite Sports Therapy Table with Vibration and Heat feels incredibly cozy, thanks to its thick cushioning, and adjustable vibration and heat settings. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
The high-quality headrest is easy to attach to the table and provides the user with comfortable support during the massage. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This wide massage table folds up nicely, however, it may be too heavy for some to transport easily. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This well-made massage table is easy to set up, but will need to be stationed close to an outlet to use its additional heat and vibration features. Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Best for Home Massage
Luxton Premium Massage Table
- Ease of Setup4.5/5
- Adjustability4.5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Overall Value4.5/5
Comfortable
Comes with armrests and storage pocket
Slightly wobbly
Difficult to disassemble and stow
Key Specs
Height Range: 25–35 inches | Style: Stationary | Working Weight Capacity: 550 pounds | Weight: 38 pounds | Dimensions: 28 x 74 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Who It's For
Best for those who want to start home massages and need an affordable, comfortable option.
Why We Love It
Luxton Home’s Premium massage table is a great option for anyone searching for a high-quality, at-home massage table at a relatively fair price. We love this one for its plush and luxurious feel—it feels very high quality and comfortable during massages.
The table features easily adjustable legs, front and side armrests, and a side storage pocket for oil or other personal belongings. We like that it's quick and easy to assemble, doesn't require any tools, and takes under three minutes to set up. It comes with a rolling case if you need to pack it away, but it's best as a semi-permanent setup.
Potential Flaws
- Disassembly is a little challenging, so we think this table is better suited for a stationary setup rather than a portable one.
- This table can be a little wobbly, but we never feel unsafe when using it.
Most Valuable Insight
"Honestly, I was pretty impressed by the price of this massage table. For a table that felt luxuriously soft and plush, and was easy to use, it was a lot more affordable than I expected." —Isabella Broggini, Associate Editorial Director and Verywell Fit product tester
The Luxton Premium Massage Table feels high-quality and comfortable, and has a working weight capacity of up to 550 pounds. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This plush massage table conveniently sets up within a few minutes and doesn’t require any tools. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
While this massage table feels well-made, it tends to wobble a bit, which may not work well for some. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This affordable massage table comes with comfortable armrests, plus a storage pocket that can hold massage oil, lotion, or personal belongings. Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Best Investment
EARTHLITE Electric Massage Table
- Ease of Setup4/5
- Adjustability5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Overall Value5/5
Easily adjustable via electric foot pedal
Can be manually tilted
Wide height range
Too heavy to be portable
Headrest isn't included
Key Specs
Height Range: 18–37 inches | Style: Stationary | Working Weight Capacity: 600 pounds | Weight: 180 pounds | Dimensions: 28 x 73 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who It's For
Best for users setting up a home spa or salon.
Why We Love It
Earthlite's Electric Massage Table is plush and cushioned, easily adjustable using a hydraulic lift foot pedal, and well worth its expensive price tag. Unlike the other flat-top tables on our list, its versatility allows you to manually tilt the table to an incline. We love that it arrives pre-assembled and has wheels for easy maneuvering. The cushioning feels super plush and comfortable, and the covering is soft and smooth.
Since it's available in six color options and three widths, you can definitely find the perfect one for your needs. The plush cushioning of the table balances out the intense pressure of a deep tissue massage. And, although a headrest and other accessories are sold separately, we feel comfortable using it even without one.
Potential Flaws
- At 180 pounds, this table is not portable but can be maneuvered with built-in wheels.
- A headrest is sold separately, but we were comfortable without it.
Most Valuable Insight
"I would recommend this table to a friend or even a masseuse who wants to find the best table for their service. In any given service, it's best to have a product that will ensure its success, and this table is it." —Lamont Paulin, Verywell Fit product tester
The EARTHLITE Electric Massage Table feels incredibly cushioned and high-quality, supporting a working weight capacity of up to 600 pounds. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
While the headrest is sold separately, this well-made table is easily adjusted via a hydraulic lift foot pedal and can be manually titled to an incline position. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
Available in three widths and six color options, this heavy table works best in a more permanent setting. Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Best Foldable
SmileMart 2 Fold Portable Massage Table
- Ease of Setup4.5/5
- Adjustability4.5/5
- Comfort5/5
- Overall Value5/5
Budget-friendly
Comes with armrests
Very long
Headrest was confusing to set up
Key Specs
Height Range: 25–34 inches | Style: Portable | Weight Capacity: 551 pounds | Weight: 36 pounds | Dimensions: 33 x 84 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who It's For
Best for at-home massages when users need to store the table away when not in use.
Why We Love It
SmileMart’s massage table was easy to set up (although the headrest took us a little more time to do so properly). It provides comfortable yet firm support and is seamlessly adjustable when turned over. We like that the foldable massage table has front and side removable armrests that can be stored inside the table.
This table is comfortable and an overall good value. It's a great option for on-the-go users because it’s lightweight and easy to carry. Plus, it's reasonably priced, comfortable, lightweight, and easy to set up. We like that it comes in three color options.
Potential Flaws
- We found the headrest a little tricky to setup correctly, but we eventually figured it out.
Most Valuable Insight
"For a reasonable price, this table is a great option. Comfortable, lightweight, and easy to set up. I imagine it would be easy to carry around/seems portable." —Phoebe Sklansky, Editor and Verywell Fit product tester
The SmileMart 2 Fold Portable Massage Table is a long, budget-friendly option that offers firm support to the user. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This massage table has a comfortable headrest, plus, it comes with armrests, providing even more comfort to the user. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This massage table comes with front and side armrests, as well as a headrest, although this can take some time to set up. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This massage table is easy to adjust, provides solid support, and has a weight capacity of up to 551 pounds. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This high-quality massage table is a breeze to set up and is lightweight enough to easily store or take on the go. Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Best Portable
EARTHLITE Harmony DX Massage Table
- Ease of Setup5/5
- Adjustability3.5/5
- Comfort4/5
- Overall Value5/5
Storage in table for extra parts
Comes with a carrying case
Quick and easy setup
Headrest not as sturdy as other options
Difficult to adjust
Key Specs
Height Range: 23–33 inches | Style: Portable | Working Weight Capacity: 600 pounds | Weight: 34 pounds | Dimensions: 30 x 73 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Who It's For
Best for a massage professional who travels to client homes or offices.
Why We Love It
With a quick and easy setup, in-table storage, and a handy carrying case, Earthlite's Harmony massage table is great for portable use. When traveling, you want something that can be set up and stowed away quickly. If this process is difficult and lengthy, it takes away from the relaxing experience, Dreon says. The table is also long and wide enough to fit many body types.
We like that it's well-padded, and the cushioning is just the right mix of comfortable and firm. It feels supportive without being too hard. And the table is available in four different colors, so if you're buying it for home use, you can choose one that matches your decor.
Potential Flaws
- The legs have to be removed to adjust the height of the table, which can be an inconvenience.
- The headrest fell off during our test, so it may not be as sturdy as other options on our list.
Most Valuable Insight
"The table has great reviews from professionals and is durable. It is long and wide enough to fit many body types, and besides the table being somewhat of a hassle to adjust the height, it is very easy to set up!" —Jada Allison, Verywell Fit product tester
The EARTHLITE Harmony DX Massage Table feels comfortably padded and is wide and long enough to work well for many individuals. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This portable massage table is easy to set up, however, adjusting the height tends to be a more time-consuming process. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This massage table’s headrest feels well-cushioned, however, it doesn’t tend to stay attached to the table as well as other options. Verywell Fit / Leticia Almeida
This lightweight massage table is available in four colors, easily wipes down, and comes with a convenient carrying case. Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Compare
Ease of Setup | Adjustability | Comfort | Overall Value | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall: Master Massage Santana Portable Massage Table Package | $446 at Amazon | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Best Overall Runner-Up: EARTHLITE Portable Massage Table LUNA | $484 at Amazon | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 |
Best Budget: Yaheetech Portable Adjustable Massage Table | $100 at Amazon | 4 | 4 | 4.5 | 5 |
Best for All Sizes: Earthlite Avalon Massage Table | $435 at Amazon | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 |
Most Stable: Sierra Comfort Portable Massage Table | $175 at Amazon | 4.5 | 4.5 | 5 | 5 |
Best Heated: Earthlite Sports Therapy Table with Vibration and Heat | $699 at Amazon | 5 | 3.5 | 5 | 5 |
Best for Home Massage: Luxton Premium Massage Table | $275 at Amazon | 4.5 | 4.5 | 5 | 4.5 |
Best Investment: EARTHLITE Electric Massage Table | $1,972 at Amazon | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Best Foldable: SmileMart 2 Fold Portable Massage Table | $100 at Walmart | 4.5 | 4.5 | 5 | 5 |
Best Portable: EARTHLITE Harmony DX Massage Table | $370 at Amazon | 5 | 3.5 | 4 | 5 |
We Also Tested
After eight hours of massages testing 13 different tables, only 10 earned spots on our final list of recommendations. These three had some nice features but didn't meet the high expectations we hold for our top picks.
- AmazonCommercial's Portable Folding Massage Table is budget-friendly, easy to adjust, and has a great height range. However, both massage therapists and testers felt the table was difficult to set up, stiff, and of low quality overall.
- Saloniture's Portable Massage Table is another budget-friendly option, but we thought it wasn't strong or durable enough to withstand hard pressure. However, for the low price point, we liked how intuitive it was to set up and felt it was comfortable.
- Although we liked its ease of setup and height adjustability, Uenjoy's Folding Massage Table felt narrow and unstable. The headrest came loose twice during testing, adding to our lack of comfort and confidence in the table.
What to Look for in a Massage Table
- Setup: Both setup and clean-up are really important, especially during home or office visits, Dreon says. Choose a table that is easily assembled and has all of the necessary equipment (like the headrest, wipes, and sheets) on hand and ready to go. If you’re fumbling during setup or taking too long to clean up and leave, it can disrupt the energy and serenity of the whole massage experience, Dreon adds.
- Adjustability: A highly adjustable table is essential for both therapist and client, Lovell says. You want to make sure it’s easy for the client to get on and off of the table, regardless of their height. It should also be adjustable to accommodate the height of the therapist so they can get enough leverage to administer a restorative massage. Some higher-end models are electric, which for easy adjustments, and most tables have a face cradle that can be positioned at different angles for maximum comfort.
- Type: Before buying a massage table, it’s essential to establish how you’ll be using it. For example, personal, esthetic, sports, or chiropractic massage are common uses, says Beret Loncar, licensed massage therapist and owner of Body Mechanics Orthopedic Massage in New York City. She explains that some of the most popular types are hydraulic tables (which go up and down in height), pregnancy tables (modified with holes for the belly and breasts), inclining tables for esthetics or pregnancy usage, and stationary tables with storage. Additionally, there are heavy folding tables that can be easily stored but are hard to move and travel tables that are lightweight.
- Materials: According to Loncar, tables are typically made with aluminum, wood, high-density foam, and vinyl. While the frame needs to be sturdy, the top should be as comfortable as possible. Loncar notes that less expensive tables will have lower-quality vinyl and less padding, but for occasional use, that's probably fine. For more frequent use, you'll want to invest in something more durable.
- Size: Most massage tables range in size from around 24 inches to about 34 inches in width. Their length can start around 72 inches, and some can extend to over 80 inches, which is great for taller clients. The size of the table is important for storage, portability, and use. If you’re dealing with a wide range of clients with various needs, a longer one with ample room for adjustment will ensure you can accommodate everyone.
- Portability: While stationary tables are often more durable and stable, portable tables can still offer a great experience with added benefits. Determine whether your table will remain in one place for a long period of time or if you'll need to move it frequently. If portability is a factor, a foldable table may be a good choice.
- Accessories: Some tables come with wedges and additional padding for positioning, which can be helpful if you can't lay flat, notes physical therapist and RRCA-certified run coach Kathleen Gassner, DPT. Others come with extra parts that can allow clients who are pregnant to lay face down.
How We Tested the Best Massage Tables
To curate our list of the best massage tables on the market, we tested 13 highly rated massage tables in The Verywell Testing Lab. When testing massage tables, we evaluate each one based on the following key criteria:
- Ease of Setup: It’s essential that your massage table is easily accessible, whether for personal or business use. We time the entire setup process from unboxing to ready-to-use, noting the total time, if the legs easily slot into place, and if any accessories need to be attached. The massage therapist prepares the table by cleaning it, laying down a sheet, and adjusting the height to their preference. Tables that have a seamless setup receive a high score in this area.
- Comfort: What good is a restorative massage if you’re uncomfortable? After setup, we get on the table and receive our 15-minute massage from one of the three on-site massage therapists. During the massage, we note several things: How do we feel on the table? Is the table supportive, or does it feel wobbly? Do we have enough room, and is it suitable for our body type? We prioritize tables with high scores for comfort.
- Adjustability: Adjustability is vital when it comes to massage tables. Massage therapists and their clients come in all heights, shapes, and sizes, Lovell says. We evaluate the adjustability of each table by paying special attention to how easy it is to adjust and the range of available adjustment options. Tables that are intuitive and highly adjustable receive high scores for this attribute.
- Overall Value: After we rate the above attributes and get perspective from our licensed massage therapists, we check the price of each massage table and determine if we feel it's a good value. Massage tables get high scores if we believe they perform well in the above attributes and are worth their price tag (or even more budget-friendly than we expected).
Our Experts
During our testing and research process, we consulted with several experts. Jeffrey Dreon, Dawn Lovell, and Betty Hastie administered 15-minute massages in the Verywell Testing Lab, while Karah Faison and Beret Loncar provided additional expert insights. Although we choose products independently, we use expert input to influence our choices.
- Jeffrey Dreon, licensed massage therapist and naturopathic doctor in New York
- Dawn Lovell, licensed massage therapist in Brooklyn, New York
- Beret Loncar, licensed massage therapist and owner of Body Mechanics Orthopedic Massage in New York City
- Betty Hastie, licensed massage therapist in New York
- Karah Faison, licensed massage therapist and Silver Lining Day Spa owner in Charlottesville, VA
- Kathleen Gassner, DPT, physical therapist and RRCA-certified run coach
Frequently Asked Questions
What size sheets are required for a massage table?
It’s generally recommended to purchase massage sheet sets that typically include a face cradle cover, a flat sheet, and a fitted sheet for the table. While you can make twin-size bed sheets work, investing in a massage table sheet set will provide a snug fit that is meant for all parts of the table. Just be sure to check your table's measurements before purchasing.
How high should the massage table be?
Many tables feature an adjustable height, which allows for easy access on and off the bed. During a massage session, the height depends on the masseuse's preference and the client's needs. Faison notes that hydraulic tables help adjust the client into position and support good body mechanics for the therapist.
What size massage table is best?
Standard massage tables are typically 30 inches wide and 73 inches long. But you can find tables that span from 28 to 32 inches wide, and 63 up to 84 inches in length. If you're a massage therapist who will be using the table for a variety of clients, we recommend choosing a table that'll fit a variety of body types.
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