Inada Sogno Dreamwave vs Osaki Massage Chair Review 2024

Osaki has a variety of massage chairs ranging from entry-level Chinese-made models to high-end Japanese-made models. To understand the Inada Sogno DreamWave vs Osaki massage chair comparison, we’ll show you which Osaki models can compete with the Inada DreamWave both in terms of quality and features and introduce you to the brands themselves.

We’ll also explain the differences between Chinese-made and Japanese-made massage chairs. Let’s get started!

Japanese-Made vs Chinese-Made Massage Chairs

So you may be wondering… what’s the big deal about Japanese massage chairs anyway?

The short answer… quality.

Japanese-Made Massage Chairs

Japan is the largest massage chair market in the world with “an estimated 15% of households owning a massage chair,” according to Inada. Now take that large market and combine it with discerning users who want the best and you have a recipe for constant innovation.

Since the first introduction of the massage chair in Japan in the 1950s, Japanese massage chair companies have had to continuously evolve, resulting in some of the best massage chair technology available today.

Additionally, the Japanese don’t just see massage chairs as just a way to relax, they see them as true therapeutic devices which means each component is meticulously crafted and controlled to meet medical standards.

CHINESE-MADE MASSAGE CHAIRS

But while the “best” massage chairs are manufactured in Japan, the vast majority of massage chairs are manufactured in China. This includes most of the massage chairs from companies like Human Touch, Titan, Apex, Panasonic, Cozzia, and Osaki (though some these companies may design and engineer their chairs in the U.S. or Japan).

QUALITY, PRICE, AND LIFE EXPECTANCY

Since Chinese-made massage chairs are usually marketed toward more general massage enthusiasts, the quality of the components of are typically lower than what you find on Japanese chairs.

As such, Chinese massage chairs are significantly less expensive than Japanese-made chairs and frequently include additional features like sound systems, chromotherapy lights, and other features that enhance the massage experience, though aren’t directly therapeutic.

In general, the life expectancy of a Japanese-made massage chair is 15 to 20 years, while the life expectancy of a Chinese-made massage chair is up to 10 years.

Inada Japanese-Made Massage Chairs

Established in 1962 in Japan, Inada is one of the oldest and perhaps well-known massage chair companies in the world.

Its founder and current president, Nichimu Inada, started the company when he was 22 years old and is credited with creating the first ever automatic shiatsu massage chair.

Though the Inada company had periods of producing products other than massage chairs, the founder had a change in perspective, at which point he concluded, “in order to make massage chairs as valuable products, we need to devote our undivided attention to and specialize in massage chairs.”

Inada has stayed true to his singular vision ever since. Today, Inada massage chairs are still designed, engineered, and manufactured in Japan.

Inada has a long history of innovation in the massage chair industry. Here are just a few of their contributions:

But it was in 2008, when Inada introduced the first full-body massage chair, the Sogno DreamWave, that the massage chair industry was forever changed. Equipped with technology and a design that the world had never seen, the Inada DreamWave quickly became the standard by which all other massage chairs were measured. Today, the DreamWave still remains as one of the best massage chairs in the world.

Osaki’s Japanese-Made Massage Chairs

You already know Inada produces some of the most revered Japanese-made massage chairs in the world. But you might not know that the popular massage chair company Osaki does too.

And while it’s true that most of Osaki’s massage chairs are manufactured in China, their series called Japan Premium is manufactured entirely in Japan.

The series consists of three high-end massage chairs: the Japan Premium 4S, the Japan Premium 4.0, and the Japan Premium 4D.

So… why does Osaki only offer a few Japanese-made massage chairs?

Good question.

It’s because the Japan Premium series is actually made by another company called Fujiiryoki, also known as Fuji Medical Instruments.

Like Inada, Fujiiryoki is one of the oldest massage chair companies in the world. In 1954, the company introduced the first-ever wooden massage chair and has been making innovations in the industry ever since, including the first-ever commercial chair with a massage roller track.

Today, Fujiiryoki continues to produce some of the highest quality massage chairs available and boasts the largest market share (30%) in the industry. Their massage chairs are often found in wellness clinics and hospitals throughout Japan which speaks to the therapeutic benefits of the chairs.

Thanks to the Premium Japan series, Fujiiryoki massage chairs are now available to individuals and businesses in the U.S. seeking the very best 100-percent Japanese-made massage chairs.

What We’re Comparing: Inada Sogno DreamWave vs Osaki

Now that we’ve covered the differences between Japanese and Chinese massage chairs, it’s time to dive into our review.

But first, let’s explain exactly what we’re comparing…

Today, we’re focusing on the Osaki Japan Premium 4S and the Osaki OS Pro Dreamer. The Japan Premium 4S is Osaki’s highest-end model and the most popular massage chair in Japan. The OS Pro Dreamer is also one of Osaki’s higher-end chairs but is made in China. It’s included in our comparison because it was created to compete directly with the DreamWave.

To start our comparison, we’re showing you what these massage chairs have in common, then showing you the unique features of each to see how the Osaki massage chairs stack up to “the best massage chair in the world,” the Inada DreamWave. Finally, we’ll explain which is better… Inada Sogno DreamWave vs Osaki.

Common Features on the DreamWave vs Osaki Massage Chairs

Body Scan Technology

Each of the massage chairs — DreamWave, JP 4S, and OS-3D Dreamer — feature some sort of body scan technology. However, the sophistication of the technology differs between the models.

INADA DREAMWAVE

The Inada DreamWave has Optical Point Sensor body scanning technology that detects your height (shoulder position), shape, and shiatsu points, then creates a “profile” from the scan information. The DreamWave then compares your profile with 106 other profiles programmed on the chair. The closest match is selected and the rollers automatically adjust to give you a custom-fit shiatsu-style massage.

Osaki Japan Premium 4S

The Osaki Japan Premium 4S massage chair features Double Sensing Scanning that uses two sensors — one for the spine, one for the shoulders — to detect the shape and height of your body. Then, using the scan information, the massage rollers automatically adjust to fit your body and keep optimal pressure throughout your session. If the scan doesn’t quite find the correct shoulder position, you can manually adjust the position of the rollers using the remote.

Osaki OS 3D Pro Dreamer

The Osaki OS 3D Pro Dreamer features a 3D Point Navigation scanning system that is similar to the Double Sensing System, but only uses one sensor on the spine. While you can manually adjust the position of the rollers, the overall scan is more limited than the Double Sensing System. Even so, the 3D Point Navigation system is still able to map up to 200 square inches of your back and detect where to and where not to massage.

3D and 4D Roller Technology

Advanced rollers and track technology are core components of these high-end massage chairs, but the technology and feel differ between them.

INADA DREAMWAVE

The rollers on the Inada DreamWave massage chair are 3D which means they move in three ways: up and down, side to side, and outward (protruding into the back). The third movement, outward, gives you control over the intensity of your massage and the depth of the rollers.

​The rollers utilize patented technology that moves them in a figure eight pattern as they roll across the back performing a seamless, resistance-free massage. In general, the roller massage on the DreamWave is fairly mild thanks to its elbow-sized rollers.

Together with air massage, the massage on the Inada DreamWave provides over 1,200 square inches of coverage — the most comprehensive coverage of any chair in the world.

Osaki Japan Premium 4S

The Osaki Japan Premium 4S massage takes roller massage one step further with 4D massage. So in addition to the three dimensions of 3D massage, the JP 4S has a fourth dimension: dynamic speed.

With dynamic speed, the rollers alternate speeds — sometimes going slow, sometimes going fast — to replicate the variations of rhythm you experience with a massage therapist.

If you look closely, you’ll see the Inada DreamWave also offers roller speed adjustments. So, what’s the difference and why isn’t it 4D?

The rollers on the Inada DreamWave are not “dynamic” and aren’t programmed to alternate speeds during a massage unless you manually adjust it yourself. The roller speed is adjustable by three levels which you can control using the remote. But it’s more of a customization feature than an additional roller dimension.

Osaki OS 3D Pro Dreamer

Like its name implies, the Osaki OS 3D Pro Dreamer is also a 3D massage chair. Its rollers protrude from the track up to 3.1 inches for a powerful deep tissue massage.

​Back to the 4D rollers on the Japan Premium 4S…

The Kiwami Mecha System

The 4D massage rollers use special kneading roller heads that are designed to perform the most lifelike massage possible. The kneading ball roller heads, plus the special kneading techniques they perform are referred to as the “Kiwami Mecha System.”

The Kiwami Mecha System performs advanced kneading massage techniques like neck grabbing, loop kneading, and “Kiwami Knead” which treats the hard-to-reach areas of the trapezius muscle on the neck and shoulders. In fact, when it comes to trapezius massage, the Osaki Japan Premium 4S is rivaled only by the Inada DreamWave and Panasonic EP-MA73.

The Kiwami Mecha System also allows the massage rollers to protrude outwards up to 4.9 inches to deliver a powerful deep tissue massage.

Air Massage Technology

All of the massage chairs feature air massage technology, but the number of airbags and the technology that powers them is very different between the Inada DreamWave and the Osaki massage chairs.

INADA DREAMWAVE

​When it comes to the number of airbags, few massage chairs can compete with the Inada DreamWave. Equipped with over 100 airbags, the DreamWave provides air massage to areas often excluded by other massage chairs like the middle of the arms, sides of the thighs, and tops of the shoulders. And thanks to its insulated air system, the noise of the airbags isn’t overwhelming during use.

The airbag technology on the Inada DreamWave is also very sophisticated. Instead of simply inflating and deflating to provide a compression massage like most airbags, they are designed to perform advanced massage techniques like traction and rotation.

The airbags in the seat perform Inada’s patented DreamWave technology that inflates the airbags at alternating intervals to swing the body from side to side for lower back mobilization.

Further, Inada DreamWave’s “Neck Traction Device” uses airbags to press down on the tops of the shoulders, pushing them down and away from the neck for gentle traction that helps release tension and pinched nerves. At the same time, acupressure nodes on the airbags protrude into the tops of the shoulders to provide trigger point massage.

OSAKI JAPAN PREMIUM 4S

The Osaki Japan Premium 4S model also uses a sophisticated air massage system, though it’s quite different than the DreamWave.

Inside the Japan Premium 4S is Osaki’s Triple Mode Air System that performs three unique air massage styles: Pulse, Hand Kneading, and Normal. Each air massage mode uses a different inflation pattern, giving you more control and variety over your air massage.

There are 34 airbags on the JP 4S, and although it seems like a small number in comparison to the Inada DreamWave, the airbags have been redesigned to increase their surface area while reducing the overall number. According to Osaki, fewer airbags means fewer components, less noise, and less energy consumption.

OSAKI OS 3D PRO DREAMER

The OS 3D Pro Dreamer doesn’t feature Osaki’s Triple Mode Air System, however, it’s equipped with 48 airbags that are strategically placed to treat key areas like the neck, shoulders, hips, seat, arms, hands, calves, and feet with compression massage.

Of all the massage chairs, the Inada DreamWave provides the most air massage coverage, though each chair treats (to varying degrees) the following areas:

Foot Massage

At the bottom of the ottoman on the Osaki Japan Premium 4S and the Inada DreamWave are acupressure plates with nodes that protrude into the bottoms of the feet. Airbags surrounding the feet inflate to press your feet onto the nodes for a deep massage. The acupressure plates are removable, so if you would prefer to go without them, you can take them out at any time. The plates are not mechanical — no kneading or spinning is involved.

The Osaki OS 3D Pro Dreamer, however, does have mechanical foot rollers that spin under the feet to treat the acupressure points. In general, the mechanical foot rollers offer a more comprehensive foot massage than the acupressure plates.

Heat Therapy

Each massage chair features heat therapy, though the locations of the heating pads differ between models.

The Inada DreamWave has heating pads in the lower back and seat. The Osaki Japan Premium 4S has heating pads in the lower back and under the feet. And the Osaki OS 3D Pro Dreamer has heating pads behind the shoulders.

The heating systems on the chairs are comparable, so it’s a matter of location preference.

Stretch Massage

All of the massage chairs feature a stretch program.

During the stretch programs, shoulder airbags inflate to hold the body against the backrest while airbags in the ottoman inflate to hold the legs. Then, the chair reclines at varying degrees to pull and stretch the whole body.​​​​​

Unique Features on the DreamWave vs Osaki

Even with similar core components, the Inada DreamWave and the Osaki massage chairs are quite different. Here’s why…

Since both of these brands (Osaki and Inada) have their own proprietary technology — developed and owned by the company — no other massage chairs feature it. So you won’t find any other massage chair with the same neck traction device as the Inada DreamWave. And you won’t find any other massage chair with the same Kiwami Mecha System as the Osaki Japan Premium 4S (though Panasonic-exclusive Junetsu Kneading comes close).

But out of the three massage chairs — DreamWave, JP 4S, and Pro Dreamer — it’s the O​saki OS 3D Pro Dreamer that’s perhaps the most distinctive. This is because the OS 3D Pro Dreamer is manufactured in China and has quite a few additional features you won’t find on the Japan Premium 4S or the Inada DreamWave, including mechanical foot rollers, LED chromotherapy lights, and a music system with speakers.

Let’s take a closer look at what else sets these massage chairs apart…​

Inada Sogno Dreamwave Massage Chair

28-Inch S-Track

The Inada DreamWave has a 28-inch massage track. The track is “S” shaped to contour to the natural shape of the spine. It extends from the top of the neck to the tailbone and provides coverage to the tops of the glutes. The typical S-Track ranges from 25 to 32 inches, so the track on the Inada DreamWave is in the middle in terms of length and will provide good coverage to most users.

Near 360-Degree Arm and Hand Massage

On the Inada DreamWave, the arm massagers are located next to thighs and contained with the shell of the chair which means when the chair reclines the arm massagers do too. So there’s no interruption in your arm massage as you recline. The arm massagers wrap the arms and hands in airbags that provide near 360-degree coverage.

Massage Techniques and Auto Programs

The Inada DreamWave has seven massage techniques. Though not as robust as what you find on other high-end massage chairs like the Osaki JP 4S, the techniques cover all the fundamental movements shiatsu-style massage.

The techniques available are:

There are eight full-body auto programs on the Inada DreamWave. The programs are fully automated massages. Simply press a button and enjoy a head-to-toe massage. Each of the eight programs have two versions: Normal and Deep Relaxation. So, technically the Inada DreamWave has 16 auto programs, including a special “Youth” program that’s designed for users who are 14 years and up. For the “Youth” program, the massage range is shortened to match the height of younger, shorter users.

Auto Programs

Vibration Massage

A feature unique to the Inada DreamWave is vibration massage. In the seat and lower back of the chair, high-frequency vibration plates vibrate to stimulate the muscles and circulation. The vibration massage can be turned on and off or added to any auto program.

Customizations

On the Inada DreamWave, there are a few customization options that let you dial-in your ideal settings. You can adjust the speed of the rollers by three levels, change the direction of your massage (clockwise or counterclockwise), increase and decrease the roller intensity, customize your air massage location, adjust the width of the rollers, and mute the sound of the buttons among others.

Designer Aesthetics

When the Inada DreamWave was introduced in 2008, it revolutionized the massage chair industry. In addition to its technology, a major part of its impact was its design — it looked different than any other massage chair available at the time.

When creating the DreamWave, Inada enlisted renowned product designer, Toshiyuki Kita, (whose most notable works have earned him permanent places in collections at the New York City Museum of Modern Art and the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris among others) to design the massage chair.​

Handheld Remote Control

While the chair itself may look designer, the remote on the DreamWave doesn’t. The handheld remote is very simple. There are no display screens other than a strip screen at the top of the remote that displays text commands. Though easy-to-use, the remote does feel a little out of place compared to the modern, futuristic design of the chair. But, some will appreciate its simplicity.

Osaki Japan Premium 4S Massage Chair

31-Inch S-Track

The Osaki Japan Premium 4S features a 31-inch S-Track. The track extends from the top of the neck to the tailbone. And is 2 inches longer than the massage track on the Inada DreamWave — a welcome addition for taller users.

Massage Techniques and Auto Programs

Like we mentioned above, the JP 4S has 4D rollers. The rollers perform 41 unique kneading techniques. That’s right, 41 techniques.

The techniques are divided into five categories: Basic 1, Basic 2, Basic 3, Neck and Shoulder, and Back and Waist.

Let’s take a closer look at the techniques in each category…

The massage techniques are accessed through “manual mode” section on the remote.

When you want to lay back, relax and the massage chair do all the work, the Osaki Japan Premium 4S has 20 auto programs for you to choose from.

The auto programs are divided into five categories: 30 min PRO, Whole Body, Neck and Shoulder, Stretch, and Waist. Some auto programs are repeated, however, they’re unique to a specific body area.

The 30 Min PRO programs are in fact 30-minute programs. All of the other programs, however, including the manual massage techniques, are 16-minute sessions.

If you’re in a rush or a quick massage is all you need, the Osaki JP 4S offers eight 7-minute mini massage sessions. These programs focus on specific body areas and are divided into two categories: Short Program and Stretch. The programs are:

Memory Feature: Build Your Own Massage Programs

The large number and variety of techniques and programs on Oskai JP 4S set it apart from the other massage chairs on our list. And so does its memory feature.

Instead of having to adjust the settings of your massage every time you use the chair, on the JP 4S, you can save your settings to memory — creating a brand new customized auto program. Now, when you get back into the JP 4S, your favorite massage is one button away.

Customizations

The JP 4S gives you a robust set of customization options to dial-in your ideal massage. You can adjust the strength of your roller massage up to 12 levels. You can control the width and speed of the rollers. You can adjust the range of the rollers to focus on a specific point or zone on your body. And one of the most unique customization features…. you can adjust the waist position.

So why is this special?

Typically, massage chairs allow you to set the height of your shoulders so the rollers don’t hit too high or too low, however, very few allow you to set the location of your waist to ensure the rollers are massaging your lower back correctly. The Osaki JP 4S lets you do both.

Additionally, you can control the location of your air massage as well as the intensity and mode (pulse, hand kneading, or normal).

Handheld LCD Touchscreen Remote

Perhaps one of the most distinctive features on the Osaki Japan Premium 4S massage chair is its touchscreen handheld remote. While there are several buttons on the remote, the majority of the chair’s functions are controlled using the touchscreen. Though high-tech, it’s easy to use. The remote also comes with its own pedestal for quick storage.

Osaki Os 3D Pro Dreamer Massage Chair

31-Inch S-Track

Like the Osaki JP 4S, the OS 3D Pro Dreamer features a 31-inch S-Track. The track extends from the neck to the tailbone.

Two-Stage Zero-Gravity

A popular massage chair feature you’ll find on the Osaki OS 3D Pro Dreamer is Zero Gravity.

So what is it?

Zero Gravity is a reclined chair position that puts the body into a neutral position. In this position, the body’s weight is shifted to the backrest, removing vertical pressure from the spine, allowing the muscles to deeply relax. At the same time, the legs are elevated slightly above the heart to increase circulation.

On the Osaki OS 3D Pro Dreamer, there are two stages of Zero Gravity, with the second being more reclined. While the other massage chairs — JP 4S and DreamWave — can recline into a comfortable neutral position, it’s not quite as simple as pressing the OS 3D Pro Dreamer’s “Anti Gravity” button.

Mechanical Foot Rollers

Like we mentioned above, the OS 3D Pro Dreamer has mechanical foot rollers. The rollers provide a reflexology-style massage to the bottoms of the feet. The foot rollers can be turned off, on or added to any manual program.

LED Chromotherapy Lights

On the sides of the ottoman on the OS 3D Pro Dreamer are blue LED chromotherapy lights. Chromotherapy is a form of color therapy that uses specific colors to stimulate health and well-being. The lights cast a soft blue hue onto the walls surrounding the Dreamer in a dark room.

MP3 Compatible with Built-In Speakers

Another massage-enhancing feature on the OS Pro 3D Dreamer is its music system. An MP3 port lets you connect your iPhone or any other compatible device directly to the chair.

There are built-in speakers located above the ears that deliver crisp sounds. Or, if you’d rather listen to the music through headphones, a headphone jack lets you connect a set to the chair.

You can adjust the volume using your device. And if you want to take your music experience further, the ​OS Pro 3D Dreamer features a “Music Sync” auto program that will match your vibration massage to the rhythm of your music.

Massage Techniques and Auto Programs

The Osaki OS Pro 3D Dreamer has six massage techniques, including:

Using a combination of massage techniques and air massage, the OS Pro 3D Dreamer offers eight auto programs, including:

Customizations

On the OS 3D Pro Dreamer, you can customize your massage using the manual mode options. There are five levels of roller strength, five levels of airbag intensity, three levels of roller width, and five levels of roller speed. You can customize the location of your air massage or focus your roller massage on a specific point or zone using the “Point” and “Partial” buttons on the remote. And if you want to add heat therapy to your massage, you can turn the heating pads on, off, or add them to any program.

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Which is Better: Inada Sogno DreamWave vs Osaki

Now that we’ve seen what these massage chairs have in common and what makes them unique, it’s time to address the final question… Which massage chair is best?

Inada Sogno Dreamwave

The standout aspects of the Inada DreamWave are its massage coverage (the most of any massage chair in the world), its trusted brand reputation, its quality (Japanese-made​, likely to last for years and years), and its advanced technology and techniques (DreamWave, neck traction, trigger point massage, trapezius massage, etc).

With the Inada DreamWave, you know you’re getting one of the best massage chairs in the world. So if you want some of the most innovative massage technology and like the idea of your whole body being wrapped in a massage cocoon, the Inada Sogno DreamWave is for you.

Osaki Japan Premium 4S

The Osaki Japan Premium 4S is also one of the best massage chairs in the world thanks to its advanced technology, high-quality craftsmanship and robust set of customization options. In general, the Osaki JP 4S offers slightly more in terms of vigor and depth of the roller massage. So if you want a therapeutic massage with advanced, accurate, abundant and powerful techniques for your neck, shoulders (trapezius) and back, the Osaki Japan Premium 4S is for you.

Osaki OS 3D Pro Dreamer

Now, if you want a high-quality air massage and roller massage with additional features like foot rollers and a music system, the Osaki OS 3D Pro Dreamer is what you want. And although the OS 3D Pro Dreamer isn’t manufactured in Japan, Osaki is a reputable brand and offers a solid warranty (4-year limited warranty) for the chair.

Final Thoughts: Inada Sogno DreamWave vs Osaki Massage Chairs

The most compelling factor to consider when comparing the Inada Sogno DreamWave to Osaki is that the majority of Osaki’s massage chairs are manufactured in China. But thanks to the Japan Premium series, Osaki can now compete with Inada in terms of both quality and features.

So, when deciding between Inada DreamWave and an Osaki Japan Premium model like the JP 4S it comes down to a matter of preference.

But when deciding between the Inada DreamWave and the Osaki OS 3D Pro Dreamer, it comes down to additional features like foot rollers, chromotherapy lights and built-in speakers versus a more expensive, but perhaps better, more reliable massage chair overall.

We hope our Inada Sogno DreamWave vs Osaki massage chair review has helped make your buying process a little easier.

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Inada Manufacturer Support
Osaki Manufacturer Support

References & Resources

• Inada Massage Chair, Official Brand Website.
• Osaki Massage Chair, Official Brand Website.
• The effect of compressed air massage on skin blood flow and temperature, PubMed.
• The Pressure Question in Massage Therapy, PainScience.