What is a Motion Recliner vs. a Traditional or Manual Recliner?

April 08, 2025

Everyone loves to sit back and relax in their favorite chair, but when you compare today’s motion recliners to the traditional manual ones, the difference is night and day. Motion recliners are designed to support your body and provide a range of potential benefits. They’ve become a favorite for those who want more from their furniture than just a place to sit.

So, what is a motion recliner?

Keep reading as we walk you through what makes a motion recliner different from the classic recliners you might be used to. You’ll get a breakdown of what a motion recliner is, how it’s different from a manual recliner, and what kinds of modern features you can expect in today’s advanced motion recliner models. With features like massage, heat therapy, and more, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make the switch sooner.

What Is a Motion Recliner?

If you’ve read our guide on how to buy a good recliner, then you have a better understanding of what factors go into choosing your next chair purchase. Even with that knowledge, you might be asking, “What is a motion recliner, and why is it better than a regular one?”

At its core, a motion recliner (also called a power recliner) is a chair that reclines using electric motors rather than manual levers or other types of push-back mechanisms. At the touch of a button (which may be on the chair or done using a remote), you can adjust the backrest, leg rest, and, in some models, even head and lumbar positioning. It's all about having a smooth and effortless transition between upright and reclined positioning. A motion recliner is great for anyone but is especially helpful for people with limited mobility.

What really sets motion recliners apart today is how much they’ve evolved beyond basic power movement. Modern options like the Svago Motion Mastery zero gravity lounger combine ergonomic design with wellness-focused features. These aren’t just chairs anymore — they’re high-tech comfort hubs that could make a noticeable positive impact on your physical and mental health.

Differences Between a Motion Recliner vs. Traditional Recliner

When comparing a power recliner vs manual recliner, is there really that much of a difference? The answer is a resounding yes.

Traditional Recliners

Traditional recliners rely on either a manual lever or your body weight to adjust the position. It’s a simple design, but it could be challenging for those who struggle with any body strength needed to get into the reclined position.

These kinds of chairs most often offer fewer reclining options, too. While they may feel comfortable for a while, they actually put excess pressure on your lower back that can result in pain from sitting too long, constricted blood flow, and other negative conditions. On top of all this, manual recliners also tend to be more basic, lacking the features found in today’s modern motion recliner chair models.

Motion Recliners

On the other hand, motion recliners give you a different experience altogether. Whether you’re adjusting your leg rest to lean back a little or going all the way to experience the benefits of zero gravity position, it’s all done at the touch of a button. They offer smoother movement and more position variety, making them potentially helpful for people with back pain or circulation issues. Models with zero gravity settings reduce that excess pressure on your spine, evenly distributing your body weight to serve as the catalyst for potential health benefits, which isn’t something traditional recliners can do.

Another key difference is how motion recliners can fit into your daily self-care routines more easily. Advanced models may offer custom memory settings, massage therapy, heat therapy, and more. They’re designed to support your wellness routine, not just give you a comfy spot to binge watch your favorite shows.

So, what is a motion recliner? As you’ve now learned, it’s a way to support your well-being in a more holistic way while you relax.

Bonus Info: Love the idea of having a chair that does more than just give you a comfortable place to sit? Learn more about the benefits of a zero gravity recliner with heat and massage features after this to see the noticeable difference they may make.

Features of Advanced Motion Recliners

We’ve answered the question, “What is a motion recliner?” and discussed how they differ from traditional or manual options. Let’s now take a look at some of the features you may encounter as you explore motion recliners. These are sure to add to the reasons a zero gravity power recliner is worth the investment.

Some features of advanced motion recliner chair models you may enjoy include:

Zero gravity position reclining
Charging ports and phone connectivity
Heat and massage therapy features
Custom memory settings
Lay flat reclining capabilities

1. Zero Gravity Position Reclining

The zero gravity position is a major advantage of advanced motion recliner models over traditional options. This body positioning may help with conditions like chronic pain or poor circulation, helping you heal faster and even possibly contribute towards better mental health. With so many reasons to swap a recliner with a zero gravity reclining chair, it makes it a no-brainer.

2. Charging Ports & Phone Connectivity

While it’s not present in all advanced motion recliners, some may have built-in USB charging ports or easy phone connectivity. You can keep your phone charged while streaming meditation music, listening to audiobooks, or playing brain games to help you wind down. It keeps everything you need for a self-care routine within arm’s reach.

3. Massage and Heat Therapy Features

Some high-end motion recliners, like the Svago Motion Mastery zero gravity lounger, include built-in air pressure massage programs and heat therapy. These recliners with heat and massage are ideal for treating sore muscles, deepening your relaxation, and even potentially helping your body recover faster from daily wear and tear. Targeted stretch programs may also restore mobility and reduce joint stiffness.

4. Custom Memory Settings

Sharing your chair with family members? Advanced motion recliners like the Motion Mastery or Svago Newton zero gravity recliner let you save multiple memory settings. This makes it perfect for getting right back to your preferences, even if you’re not the only one using your chair on a regular basis. It may sound like a small feature, but it’s a convenient one that saves you time and frustration having to get your chair back to being just how you like it.

5. Lay Flat Reclining Capabilities

Traditional recliners only lean back so far. In fact, the positioning of traditional manual recliners actually puts extra pressure on your lower back, which can lead to discomfort over time. Do zero gravity chairs lay flat? Depending on the model you choose, it may! These models give you the best of both worlds: the deep comfort of zero gravity position combined with the full-body support of a lay-flat chair.

Choose a Motion Recliner Over a Traditional Recliner

When it comes down to it, motion recliners are more than just another piece of furniture. They’re an addition to your everyday self-care routine. Whether you want to be able to recliner at the touch of a button or you’re interested in features like heat therapy or massage, there’s a motion recliner that will meet your needs. Try one out and see why you’ll never want a traditional recliner again.

Disclaimer: This content is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare professional when considering implementing changes to your health or workout routines to ensure it’s compatible with your needs.