Best Infrared Saunas: Budget, Premium, Portable & More (2026 Guide)
If you’ve been researching the best infrared saunas for your home, you’ve probably noticed how overwhelming the options can be. Prices range from a few hundred dollars to over $10,000. Some promise “full spectrum” therapy while others focus purely on far infrared. And then there’s the alphabet soup of specs: EMF levels, wattage requirements, wood types, and warranty terms that seem designed to confuse rather than clarify.
I’ve been using saunas in some form since 1999, starting with a traditional gym sauna that I could barely last 8 minutes in. Over the years, I’ve owned a 3-person infrared sauna (which I used for about 10 years before regrettably selling it), experimented with portable steam saunas, and currently use a traditional sauna 3-4 times weekly. Through all that time, I’ve learned what actually matters in a sauna and what’s just marketing fluff.
This guide cuts through the noise to help you find the right home infrared sauna for your specific situation, whether you’re working with a tight budget, limited space, or want the absolute best money can buy. I’ve organized these picks by category because the “best” sauna depends entirely on your needs, space, and budget. If you want to understand my approach and background, read about my 25-year sauna journey.
Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I’ve researched or personally used.
Quick Comparison Table
| Sauna Model | Category | Infrared Type | Max Temp | Price Range | Best For | Rating | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Home Equinox 2-Person | Best Overall | Full Spectrum | 165°F | ~$7,000 | Serious wellness enthusiasts | 🥇 ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ | Read Full Review Check Current Price |
| Dynamic Barcelona 1-2 Person | Best Budget | Far Infrared | 140°F | $1,699-$1,999 | First-time buyers | 🥇 ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ | Read Full Review Check Current Price |
| Sunlighten Amplify II | Best Premium | Full Spectrum | 170°F | ~$5,000+ | Traditional-like heat seekers | 🥇 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Read Full Review Check Current Price |
| SaunaBox Pulse PRO | Best Portable | Far IR + Red Light | 160°F | $749-$799 | Renters, small spaces | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ | Read Full Review Check Current Price |
| SaunaBox Solara 1-Person | Best 1-Person | Full Spectrum | 150°F | ~$3,000 | Solo users, apartments | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Read Full Review Check Current Price |
| Sun Home Luminar 5-Person | Best Outdoor | Full Spectrum | 150°F+ | $14,499 | Backyard wellness retreats | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Read Full Review Check Current Price |
My Top 3 Picks Overall
Not sure where to start? These are my top recommendations:
🥇 Best Overall Infrared Sauna: Sun Home Equinox 2-Person
Full Spectrum | ~$7,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
The sweet spot for serious wellness enthusiasts. You’re getting full-spectrum infrared therapy (near, mid, and far wavelengths), industry-leading heater output reaching 165°F, and ultra-low EMF levels under 0.5 milligauss. The hand-crafted Eucalyptus hardwood construction and 7-year warranty on heaters and cabin demonstrate exceptional build quality.
Why this is my top pick: After years with infrared technology, I know what matters: reaching therapeutic temperatures, safety features like low EMF, and build quality that lasts. The Equinox delivers all three while addressing the temperature limitations I experienced with my own infrared sauna.
💰 Best Budget Infrared Sauna: Dynamic Barcelona 1-2 Person
Far Infrared | $1,699-$1,999 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
The best entry point into infrared sauna therapy without major financial commitment. Solid Canadian Hemlock construction, 6 carbon fiber heating panels, built-in chromotherapy and Bluetooth audio, plus a 5-year warranty on heating elements. Plugs into any standard 120V outlet with no electrician needed.
Best for: First-time buyers, budget-conscious users, or anyone who wants to try regular infrared sauna therapy before investing more.
Why it’s worth considering: This reminds me of my first infrared sauna purchase, but at a lower price point with better features. If I were starting fresh today on a budget, this would be my pick.
🔥 Best Premium Infrared Sauna: Sunlighten Amplify II
Full Spectrum | ~$5,000+ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The best infrared sauna for those who want traditional sauna-like heat intensity. Hybrid heating design reaches 165-170°F, the highest in the infrared category. Choice of furniture-grade Eucalyptus or hypoallergenic Basswood construction. Runs on standard 120V outlet despite high heat output.
Best for: Athletes, serious detox enthusiasts, or anyone who finds standard infrared temperatures underwhelming.
Why it’s my top premium pick: When I owned my infrared sauna, I had to set it to 140°F and wait for full preheat to get results. The Amplify II reaching 170°F would have transformed my experience entirely.
How to Choose the Right Infrared Sauna for Your Needs
Choosing among these options comes down to understanding your priorities and constraints. Here’s how to think through the decision.
1. Consider Your Space First
Before getting excited about features, measure your available space. A 2-person sauna typically needs about 4′ x 4.5′ of floor space plus clearance for the door to open. If you’re tight on space, the portable options or 1-person units become much more practical. Renters should seriously consider collapsible or portable options since permanent installation isn’t possible and moving a 400-pound wooden box is no small task.
2. Understand Infrared Types
Far-infrared penetrates deepest and provides the core heating that makes you sweat. Near-infrared offers skin and cellular benefits similar to red light therapy. Full-spectrum units provide both, plus mid-infrared. If you’re buying primarily for detox and relaxation, far-infrared-only units work well and cost less. If you want skin health benefits and cellular regeneration in addition to sweating, full-spectrum is worth the premium.
3. Take EMF Seriously
EMF (electromagnetic field) concerns are legitimate, not just marketing. You’ll be sitting in close proximity to electrical heating elements for extended periods. Look for units that publish third-party EMF testing data, and prioritize readings under 3 milligauss at the seating position. Higher-end brands like Sun Home have made low EMF a priority.
4. Don’t Underestimate Electrical Requirements
This was my biggest mistake with my first infrared sauna. A “standard outlet” claim doesn’t mean you won’t trip breakers if other devices share that circuit. Most infrared saunas draw 1,500 watts or more, and the startup spike when heaters cycle on can exceed normal outlet capacity. Ideally, you want a dedicated 20-amp circuit. For larger outdoor units, 240V installation is required. Factor electrical work into your budget.
💡Related Reading: How Much Does A Home Sauna Cost?
5. Match Temperature to Your Preferences
If you’re used to traditional saunas at 180°F+, a far-infrared unit maxing at 140°F may feel underwhelming initially. It took me multiple sessions to find the right approach with my infrared sauna, and I learned that patience during preheat and longer sessions were necessary. If you want that intense heat feeling, look at higher-output models like the Sunlighten Amplify II or Sun Home Equinox that approach 165-170°F.
6. Warranty Reflects Quality
A 5-7 year warranty on heaters is standard for quality units. One-year warranties on portable units reflect their different use case and construction. Don’t skip this consideration because sauna heaters and electronics do fail, and replacement costs without warranty coverage are significant.
Key Decision Questions
Ask yourself these before purchasing:
- How often will I realistically use this?
Be honest. 3-4 times weekly justifies premium options. 1-2 times weekly suggests more modest investment. - Where will I install it?
Measure your space. Consider electrical access. Factor in ventilation needs. - What’s my heat tolerance?
If you’ve never used a sauna or prefer gentler heat, far-infrared at 140°F works well. If you want intense heat, look for full-spectrum units reaching 165°F+. - What’s my primary goal?
Relaxation and stress relief → Any option works
Deep sweating and detox → Higher temp options (Sunlighten, Sun Home)
Health therapy with low EMF → Sun Home - Am I renting or likely to move?
Consider portable or collapsible options like the SaunaBox Solara.
The “best” infrared sauna is the one you’ll actually use consistently for years, not the one with the most impressive specs or the biggest price tag.
Skip Ahead To:
- Best Overall: Sun Home Equinox
- Best Budget: Dynamic Barcelona
- Best Premium: Sunlighten Amplify II
- Best Portable: SaunaBox Pulse PRO
- Best 1-Person: SaunaBox Solara
- Best Outdoor: Sun Home Luminar
- Frequently Asked Questions
- My Final Recommendations by Category
The Best Infrared Saunas for 2026
1. Best Overall Infrared Sauna: Sun Home Equinox 2-Person Full-Spectrum Sauna
The award-winning choice that balances cutting-edge technology with exceptional build quality
Key Features:
- Full-spectrum infrared (near, mid, and far wavelengths) with industry-leading heater output, roughly double the wattage of competitors
- Ultra-low EMF levels under 0.5 milligauss through patented shielding technology, lower than most household appliances
- Hand-crafted from kiln-dried Eucalyptus hardwood with eco-friendly, non-toxic materials and low VOCs
- Medical-grade chromotherapy LED lighting and Blaupunkt Bluetooth surround sound speakers
- Tool-free “Magne-Seal” panel assembly so walls snap together without screws
- Heat-up time of 10-15 minutes to reach 130-140°F, climbing to full temperature shortly after
Why It Made the List:
The Equinox consistently earns “best infrared sauna” rankings for good reason. It’s one of the only infrared saunas that can reach traditional sauna-like temperatures while maintaining nearly undetectable EMF levels. The full-spectrum heaters mean you get the deep tissue benefits of far infrared plus the cellular and skin benefits of near infrared. For anyone serious about using their sauna as a genuine health tool rather than just a warm room, this combination matters. The build quality is evident the moment you see it: sleek black exterior, glass front, and solid hardwood construction that’s built to last decades.
At around $7,000, this is a significant investment. It’s also limited to 2-person capacity with no larger options in the same line, and there’s no smartphone app control if that matters to you. The 7-year heater and cabin warranty plus 3-year controls warranty is excellent, but you’re paying for that quality assurance.
- Full-spectrum infrared with highest heat output in category
- Exceptional EMF shielding (<0.5 mG)
- Premium Eucalyptus hardwood construction
- Integrated chromotherapy and quality sound system
- Tool-free assembly
- 7-year warranty on heaters and cabin
- Premium pricing (~$7,000)
- 2-person capacity only
- No smartphone app controls
- Requires dedicated 20A circuit
While I haven’t personally used the Equinox, it addresses every frustration I had with my old infrared sauna. My unit struggled to get hot enough and had concerning electrical issues. The Equinox’s higher wattage and proper engineering solve those problems. Based on extensive research and expert reviews, this is what I’d buy if I were investing in a permanent home infrared sauna today.
2. Best Budget Infrared Sauna: Dynamic Barcelona 1-2 Person Low EMF Sauna
Genuine quality and features at a price that won’t break the bank
Key Features:
- 6 carbon fiber far-infrared heating panels strategically placed for 360° heat coverage
- Canadian Hemlock wood construction with tempered glass door
- Built-in chromotherapy lighting and Bluetooth audio system with dual speakers
- Compact footprint (39″ x 36″ x 73″) fits most homes and apartments
- Standard 120V/15A outlet compatibility with no electrician needed
- Clasp-together panel assembly in approximately 1 hour with two people
Why It Made the List:
The Dynamic Barcelona proves you don’t need to spend thousands to get a legitimate infrared sauna experience. At under $2,000, it includes features like chromotherapy and Bluetooth audio that used to be premium-only. The solid Hemlock wood construction feels substantial, not flimsy, and the 5-year heater warranty shows the manufacturer stands behind their product. Independent EMF testing shows readings under 10 milligauss, which is reasonable for this price range. Assembly takes about an hour with two people, and it plugs into any standard outlet, making it genuinely accessible for renters or those who can’t modify their electrical setup.
The “2-person” capacity is optimistic. It’s really ideal for one adult with room to move. Max temperature reaches about 140°F, which requires some patience. My first infrared sauna couldn’t get me sweating at 130°F, so you’ll want to fully preheat to 140°F and expect 15-20 minutes before you really start perspiring. The far-infrared-only heating means you miss some of the skin and cellular benefits of near-infrared wavelengths.
- Affordable under $2,000
- Solid Hemlock wood construction
- Includes chromotherapy and Bluetooth audio
- Standard outlet, no electrician needed
- 5-year warranty on heating elements
- Compact size fits most homes
- 2-person capacity is tight (ideal for 1)
- Far-infrared only (no near-IR)
- 140°F max requires patience
- Longer preheat time (20+ minutes)
- No app control
This reminds me of my first infrared sauna purchase, but at a lower price point with better features. If I were starting fresh today on a budget, the Barcelona would be my pick. Just go in knowing the temperature limitations and preheat fully before entering. That lesson took me several frustrating sessions to learn.
3. Best Premium Infrared Sauna: Sunlighten Amplify II 2-Person Full-Spectrum
Premium performance with the highest temperatures in the infrared category
Key Features:
- Hybrid heating design combining carbon far-infrared panels with two full-spectrum halogen emitters
- Reaches 165-170°F, the highest in the infrared sauna category
- Choice of furniture-grade Eucalyptus or hypoallergenic Basswood construction
- Runs on standard 120V outlet despite high heat output
- Integrated Bluetooth speakers and chromotherapy lighting
- Preheats to 100°F in approximately 10 minutes, reaching 150°F in 20-30 minutes
Why It Made the List:
If your main complaint about infrared saunas is that they don’t get hot enough, the Amplify II solves that problem definitively. At 165-170°F, it approaches traditional sauna temperatures while still delivering infrared therapy benefits. This matters because some people, myself included, find that lower-temperature infrared saunas require patience and longer sessions to produce a satisfying sweat. Sunlighten has been making saunas for over 25 years, and their reputation for low EMF readings and quality construction is well-documented. The ability to choose between Eucalyptus and Basswood is a nice touch for those with wood sensitivities.
Sunlighten doesn’t list prices online, requiring a sales consultation, which some find inconvenient. Expect to pay around $5,000 or more. The unit weighs approximately 475 pounds, so assembly requires 2-3 people. While it has near-infrared benefits from the halogen emitters, these are heat-producing lamps rather than dedicated red light LED panels, so targeted red light therapy would require an additional accessory.
- Reaches 165-170°F (highest in category)
- Full-spectrum infrared benefits
- Choice of premium wood options
- Runs on standard 120V outlet
- 25+ year brand reputation
- 7-year warranty on heaters and cabin
- Premium pricing (~$5,000+)
- Sales consultation required for pricing
- Heavy (~475 lbs), needs 2-3 people to assemble
- No dedicated red light LED panels
The temperature capability alone makes this compelling. When I used traditional saunas at 180-190°F, the heat was intense but the results were undeniable. My infrared sauna at 140°F always felt like a compromise. The Amplify II bridges that gap better than almost anything else on the market.
4. Best Portable Infrared Sauna: SaunaBox Pulse PRO
A foldable tent-style sauna that delivers surprising performance for ultimate flexibility
Key Features:
- Ultra low-EMF carbon fiber “ThermoCell” heating panels reaching 160°F
- Integrated medical-grade red light therapy panels at 660nm and 850nm wavelengths
- Folds to suitcase size, weighs under 50 pounds
- Tool-free setup in 10-15 minutes
- OEKO-TEX certified textile (no harmful chemicals), heavily insulated
- Includes foldable chair and heated footpad
Why It Made the List:
Portable saunas often feel like compromises, but the Pulse PRO punches above its weight class. At 160°F, it reaches temperatures that some wooden cabin saunas can’t match. The inclusion of red light therapy panels at 660nm and 850nm wavelengths means you’re getting near-infrared benefits that many far-infrared-only saunas lack. For renters, apartment dwellers, or anyone who might need to move their sauna, the ability to fold it into a closet-sized package is genuinely valuable. The EMF levels are impressively low for a portable unit, with SaunaBox publishing third-party test data showing near-background readings.
You’re sitting upright on a folding chair, which isn’t as comfortable as a wooden bench. Some early users reported minor tech issues with the remote control. The fabric enclosure, while insulated, loses heat faster than wood if the zipper isn’t fully closed. Also, like all infrared saunas, there’s no humidity, which some traditional sauna fans miss.
- Fully portable, folds to suitcase size
- Reaches 160°F (impressive for portable)
- Includes red light therapy panels
- Very low EMF levels
- Non-toxic, OEKO-TEX certified fabric
- Under $800
- Sitting on folding chair less comfortable
- Some tech quirks reported with remote
- Heat dissipates faster than wood cabins
- No humidity option
I used a portable steam sauna for a couple of years and was surprised by how effective it was despite how cheap it was. The Pulse PRO is a significant upgrade from those basic tent saunas. The red light therapy integration is particularly smart, since many people buying saunas for recovery would otherwise purchase a separate red light device anyway.
5. Best 1-Person Infrared Sauna: SaunaBox Solara Full-Spectrum
A collapsible wooden sauna that combines cabin quality with apartment-friendly flexibility
Key Features:
- 100% Canadian Hemlock panels that lock together with collapsible/foldable frame design
- Full-spectrum infrared with 6 heaters plus dedicated 660nm red light therapy panel
- Compact footprint (35″ x 37″ x 63″) fits in small corner of a room
- Tool-free buckle assembly in approximately 20 minutes
- Reaches 150°F with efficient small-volume heating
- Chromotherapy lighting capability
Why It Made the List:
The Solara solves a real problem: getting wooden sauna quality in a space and situation that normally wouldn’t allow it. Unlike portable tent saunas, it has the aesthetic and feel of a proper sauna cabin, but unlike permanent installations, you can disassemble it and take it with you when you move. The full-spectrum capability including a dedicated red light panel is unusual at this size and price point. For solo sauna users who don’t need to accommodate others, this efficient design means faster heat-up times and lower operating costs.
At roughly $3,000, it’s pricier than basic 1-person far-infrared saunas. The 150°F maximum is lower than larger units, though the small interior volume means it feels adequately hot. There’s no built-in audio system, and the warranty is only 1 year, which is shorter than industry norms. The bench is about 24 inches wide, so this is genuinely a solo cabin.
- Space-saving foldable design
- Real wood construction (Canadian Hemlock)
- Full-spectrum + dedicated red light panel
- Tool-free 20-minute assembly
- Can be disassembled and moved
- Efficient heating in small volume
- Only fits one person
- 150°F max (lower than larger units)
- No built-in speakers
- 1-year warranty only
- ~$3,000 is pricey for 1-person
When I owned my infrared sauna, I used it alone 95% of the time anyway. A dedicated 1-person unit like the Solara would have been more efficient for my actual usage pattern. The collapsible design would be valuable in case of moving.
6. Best Outdoor Infrared Sauna: Sun Home Luminar 5-Person Full-Spectrum
A weather-resistant, full-spectrum infrared sauna that brings the spa experience to your backyard
Key Features:
- 10 full-spectrum heaters plus 5 additional far-infrared panels (15 total heating elements)
- Thermally modified Canadian Cedar exterior built to withstand weather
- Two-level seating like traditional Finnish saunas
- Solid shingled roof with insulated, interlocking wall panels
- Chromotherapy lighting, Bluetooth audio, and oxygen ionizer option
- Remote phone start capability
Why It Made the List:
Most infrared saunas are designed for indoor use, but the Luminar opens possibilities for those with backyard space who don’t want to sacrifice square footage inside. The full-spectrum heater array is impressive, with 15 total heating elements ensuring even heat distribution despite the larger volume. The traditional sauna-style two-level seating lets users choose their preferred heat intensity. Sun Home engineered the double-paneled walls and proper roofing specifically for outdoor use, and users in cold climates report it reaches target temperatures even in winter, just with slightly longer preheat times.
This is a major investment at $9,000 or more, plus the cost of 240V electrical installation (which ran me $1,200 when I looked into it years ago for a different project). The physical footprint (roughly 7′ x 5′ base, 8′ tall) requires a suitable outdoor location with a solid foundation. The 1-year warranty on non-heater components acknowledges the harsher outdoor environment. Assembly is complex enough that professional installation is worth considering.
- True outdoor full-spectrum sauna
- Large 4-5 person capacity
- Weather-resistant construction
- Two-level traditional seating
- 15 total heating elements
- Remote phone start
- Very expensive ($9,000+)
- Requires 240V electrical work
- Large footprint needs adequate space
- 1-year warranty on non-heater parts
- Professional installation recommended
If you have backyard space and the budget to match, an outdoor sauna is worth serious consideration. Stepping out into cool air after a session adds a refreshing contrast you can’t get indoors. The Luminar lets you get that experience with infrared technology rather than requiring a wood-burning or high-voltage traditional heater. The 4-5 person capacity also makes it genuinely social in a way smaller units can’t match.
💡Related Reading: Best Outdoor Saunas For Your Backyard
Frequently Asked Questions About Infrared Saunas
Look for saunas with EMF readings under 3 milligauss at the seating position. For context, this is lower than many common household appliances. Premium brands like Sun Home prioritize EMF reduction, with some models testing under 0.5 milligauss.
Most infrared saunas reach 130-150°F, which feels different from traditional saunas at 180°F+ because infrared heat penetrates your body directly rather than just heating the air. My preference is the hottest I can get since I find temperatures under 140°F don’t produce satisfying results. If you want traditional-like heat, look for models reaching 160-170°F like the Sun Home Equinox or Sunlighten Amplify II.
Yes, many infrared saunas work well in apartments. Look for 1-person units or portable options that plug into standard outlets and don’t require permanent installation. The SaunaBox Solara is specifically designed for renters since it can be disassembled and moved. Just ensure your electrical circuit can handle the wattage without tripping breakers.
Far infrared provides the deepest penetrating heat for detox and relaxation. Full spectrum adds mid-infrared and near-infrared wavelengths, which offer additional benefits for skin health, circulation, and cellular regeneration. Full spectrum units typically cost more but provide a more complete therapeutic experience.
Based on my experience using saunas since 1999, yes, if you’ll actually use them regularly. I noticed clear benefits in skin health, energy levels, and stress reduction when using my sauna 3-4 times weekly, and noticeable decline when I stopped. The key is choosing a sauna you’ll realistically use. A $7,000 sauna used daily is a better investment than a $2,000 one gathering dust.
For most home users, the Sun Home Equinox offers the best balance of performance, safety, and build quality. If budget is a concern, the Dynamic Barcelona provides excellent value under $2,000. Your specific “best” depends on space constraints, how many people will use it, and whether you prioritize features like full-spectrum heating or ultra-low EMF.
Most infrared saunas reach operating temperature in 20-30 minutes. Smaller units heat faster, and I recommend waiting until fully preheated before entering for the best experience. My mistake early on was entering too soon at too low a temperature and wondering why I wasn’t sweating.
My Final Recommendations by Category
After reviewing all options across price ranges and sauna types, here are my top picks for specific situations:
🥇 Best Overall Infrared Sauna
Sun Home Equinox 2-Person: The combination of full-spectrum heating, ultra-low EMF, and exceptional build quality makes this the benchmark for home infrared saunas.
👶 Best for Beginners
Dynamic Barcelona 1-2 Person: Affordable enough to try infrared therapy without major commitment, with all the essential features to get real results.
💰 Best Value
SaunaBox Pulse PRO: At under $800 for a portable unit that reaches 160°F and includes red light therapy, this offers remarkable capability for the price.
🏠 Best for Small Spaces
SaunaBox Solara: The collapsible design and compact footprint make this the top choice for apartments and small homes without sacrificing wooden sauna quality.
🔥 Best for High Heat Seekers
Sunlighten Amplify II: If you want traditional sauna-like temperatures (165-170°F) with infrared benefits, nothing else in the category comes close.
🌳 Best Outdoor Option
Sun Home Luminar 5-Person: The only premium outdoor infrared sauna that delivers full-spectrum therapy with weather-resistant construction for backyard wellness retreats.
Making Your Final Decision
The best infrared sauna is ultimately the one you’ll use consistently. I’ve owned saunas I used regularly and saunas I neglected. The difference came down to convenience, comfort, and whether the sauna actually delivered results I could feel.
Start by being honest about your space, budget, and how you’ll realistically use a sauna. A portable unit you use four times weekly beats a premium cabin that becomes an expensive towel rack. But if you have the space and budget for a quality cabin sauna, the experience and durability are genuinely superior.
Whatever you choose, give yourself time to find your rhythm. It took me weeks of experimentation to dial in temperature, timing, and frequency. Once I found my sweet spot, sauna sessions became a non-negotiable part of my wellness routine. If you want to understand how to use a sauna effectively, I’ve written about what I wish I’d known when I started.
Here’s to finding yours. Happy sweating!
Still feeling stuck on which sauna is for you?
If you’re looking for clarity, my complete 23 page guide brings together everything I learned from 25 years of trying traditional, infrared, and portable saunas.