When shopping for a massage chair, you’ll likely encounter terms like 2D, 3D, and even 4D. While these labels are meant to indicate the technology and capabilities of the chairs, they can often lead to confusion.
Let’s break down what these “Ds” really mean and how you can make informed decisions.
The Meaning Behind the Dimensions
At its core, the D stands for "dimensions" in massage chairs and refers to the axes of movement in the massaging mechanism (also referred to as rollers) – these are the massaging arms, wheels or rollers that are located in the backrest and move dynamically to provide a massage.
You can learn more about massage rollers and other components of a massage chair in our massage chair glossary (also a recommended read before visiting stores to look at massage chairs.)
Here’s a quick rundown of the commonly used dimensions:
Up and Down: the massaging mechanism (often referred to as rollers) in the backrest, can travel up and down the length of the user’s spine.
Left and Right (or Width): the massage rollers in the backrest can travel left and right, usually asymmetrically (meaning the two pairs or rollers move further away from the center and back again. The left side moves out left, and the right side moves out right – like slowly clapping your hands)
In and Out (or Depth): the massage rollers can move in and out, meaning they press deeper into your body for adjustable firmness of your massage. Some models will provide a basic level of depth, moving in and out a small amount automatically to simulate pressure during the massage cycle.
Higher end models such as our Luna Massage Chair can provide a manually adjustable level of depth to suit your preference.
Speed: how fast the massage rollers can move along any of the above axis. For injured or sensitive persons, a slower massage speed is recommended if massage is deemed by their physician to be suitable for them. For people with no injuries or conditions and a preference for more intense massages, a faster speed can be chosen to suit.
A top model massage chair will not only have manually adjustable speed settings, but also employ varying speeds during the course of an automatic massage program to provide a more dynamic massage experience.
Pictured: The three physical movement axis of massage chairs
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Lack of Standardization
One of the biggest issues with these terms is the lack of a standardized definition across the industry. Different manufacturers and retailers may define what constitutes a 3D or 4D chair in various ways. This inconsistency can make it difficult for consumers to compare models accurately.
How to Identify 3D and 4D Chairs
Our recommendation for distinguishing between these types of chairs is simple: Count the number of movement functions.
For example:
A chair that moves up and down and left and right may be considered 2D.
A chair that moves up and down and left and right with adjustable speeds could be classified as 3D.
A chair that moves up and down, left and right and basic in and out (depth) movement could also be considered 3D.
A chair that offers up and down, left and right, adjustable speeds and more advanced depth (manually adjustable) could be classified as 4D.
In a 4D massage chair, look for the adjustable speed function to be both manually adjustable, as well as varying automatically during the course of automatic massage modes.
Beware of Overly Ambitious Claims
As the massage chair market becomes increasingly competitive, some retailers may claim to offer 5D, 6D, or even 7D functionality. If you encounter these terms, it’s wise to ask for clarification. Inquire about what additional dimensions these chairs provide and how they enhance the massage experience.
Conclusion
Understanding the distinctions between 2D, 3D, and 4D massage chairs is crucial for making an informed purchase. While these terms can be enticing, focusing on the actual movement functions and capabilities will give you a clearer picture of what to expect. Remember to question any extraordinary claims, and don’t hesitate to seek further information before making your investment. With the right knowledge, you can find a massage chair that meets your needs and enhances your relaxation experience.
