Infrared saunas have quickly moved from spa luxury to an accessible part of at-home post-workout recovery, providing targeted warmth and relaxation in a fraction of the space of a traditional steam room. In 2026, the options range from compact one-person pods and blankets to full-size, design-forward outdoor cabins.
With our team of testers, we’ve selected the best infrared sauna options on the market, putting each through hands-on evaluation for heat performance, comfort, controls, features, and overall value. If you are building a backyard wellness retreat, upgrading a home gym, or looking for a space-saving portable option, our guide highlights the standout infrared saunas that are truly worth your time, money, and square footage.
Best Infrared Saunas of 2026
- Best Infrared Sauna Overall: Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna
- Best Portable Infrared Sauna: Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna
- Best Outdoor Infrared Sauna: Plunge Sauna
- Best Infrared Sauna Blanket: HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket
- Best Affordable Infrared Sauna: SAUNABOX Pulse Pro
Best Infrared Saunas Comparison Table
Best Infrared Sauna Overall: Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna
Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna
| Fortune score | 4.5/5 |
at Sun Home Saunas
- Our thoughts: It delivers impressive heat performance and comfort, easily accommodating multiple users
- What it does: Equipped with full-spectrum infrared heaters, it reaches temperatures of up to 170 degrees Fahrenheit
- Who it’s for: Folks with outdoor space looking to invest in a premium wellness experience
- What makes it different: A blend of high maximum heat, advanced full-spectrum infrared technology, and a spacious, social design
Pros
- Reaches high temperatures with full-spectrum infrared heating for enhanced recovery
- True five-person capacity with generous seating and interior space
- Built for outdoor environments with stylish, durable construction
Cons
- More expensive than compact or indoor models
- Needs sufficient outdoor space and a dedicated electrical circuit
- Installation takes more effort compared to smaller, plug-in saunas
Our Thoughts on Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna
The Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna is our pick for the best overall infrared sauna thanks to its powerful heating performance, true multi-person capacity, and elevated, modern design. It achieves higher temperatures than many competitors, offers full-spectrum infrared warmth for deep, even heating, and feels intentionally crafted for both solo recovery and group sessions.
Rachel tested the Luminar extensively and was especially impressed by its sleek, contemporary look and the variety of built-in features. “The Luminar easily fits several friends at once and still feels really comfortable,” she said. “I appreciate that this model doesn’t rely on coals and heats up quickly, which is perfect on mornings when I only have 10 to 15 minutes to use it.”
She also praised its tech-forward design, giving the controls a 5 out of 5. The integrated sound system, wireless connectivity, and straightforward LED interface make it ideal for small gatherings. “You can even hand off control of the music to someone else in the group from their own phone,” Rachel said, making the experience more social and customizable.
Performance-wise, Rachel found the sauna held temperature reliably and responded quickly to setting changes. It took around 10 minutes to reach 130 degrees Fahrenheit and another 10 minutes to climb to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. “Adjusting the temperature is very straightforward—with the keypad, you can flip between Celsius and Fahrenheit and dial in the exact setting you prefer,” she emphasized.
For comfort, Rachel gave the seating a 5 out of 5, noting that the supportive benches felt natural and ergonomically designed. The bench was long enough for her to lie down fully and felt pleasant over time.
Lastly, she rated the user interface a 5 out of 5, applauding its clarity and ease. The screen clearly displayed temperature, lighting options, and session time, and she enjoyed experimenting with all nine LED modes, calling that feature “a fun and interactive bonus.”
Best Portable Infrared Sauna: Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna
Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna
| Fortune score | 4/5 |
at Sunlighten
- Our thoughts: A convenient, space-saving option with simple controls, but limited heat intensity and comfort for longer sessions
- What it does: Uses infrared heating panels in an enclosed pod to warm the body while you lie down, with separate controls for upper and lower zones
- Who it’s for: Best for folks who want an easy-to-store, modern-looking infrared option for short solo sessions
- What makes it different: Low-profile, floor-based design with zoned temperature controls and a fabric-clad shell that feels more like a personal pod than a traditional cabin
Pros
- Compact footprint that lies on the floor and doesn’t dominate a room
- Straightforward controls with separate buttons for upper and lower heat and session time
- Modern, minimalist look that can blend into most home spaces
Cons
- Heat may not feel strong enough for some folks
- One-person, lie-down design may feel cramped, particularly around the feet
- Fabric construction is harder to clean and less durable feeling than wood
Our Thoughts on the Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna
The Sunlighten Solo Portable Infrared Sauna is our pick for the best portable infrared sauna because it delivers a true at-home sauna experience in a compact, easy-to-place form factor that works well for small spaces and apartments. Its floor-based, pod-style design makes it more approachable than a full cabin sauna while still offering the key benefits of infrared heat and simple, intuitive controls.
During testing, Rachel found that the Solo’s temperature held reasonably steady but never felt intensely hot, especially around the upper body. “The temperature wasn’t very warm and you could barely tell it was working,” she noted, adding that warmth was more noticeable around the feet than near the torso and shoulders. Heat-up time felt slower compared with a typical sauna, which may be a drawback for users who want fast, high-intensity sessions. On the plus side, once the session was underway, the temperature remained consistent and did not fluctuate dramatically.
In terms of comfort and layout, this is a one-person, lie-down sauna, and Rachel felt the interior ran a bit small even for her 5-foot, 5-inch height. She described the foot area as a bit cramped and mentioned that getting in and settled could feel a bit tight, especially when closing the pod around the body. Rachel rated the seating/positioning a 3 out of 5, reflecting the limited space and the slightly confined feeling of lying down inside the unit. She also commented that the overall experience felt more packed-in than a traditional sit-up cabin, which may not appeal to anyone sensitive to enclosed spaces.
Where the Solo performed better was ease of use. Rachel found the controls straightforward once the unit was on, highlighting the simple layout: “There was a button for temperature for upper and lower parts and a button for time, so easy and simple,” she explained, giving the controls a 4.5 out of 5 for usability. Being able to adjust the upper and lower heat zones separately is a thoughtful touch that allows users to fine-tune comfort, even if the overall intensity is modest. Aesthetically, she rated the look a 4 out of 5, noting that the design is modern, low-profile, and easy to integrate into a home without dominating the room.
Ultimately, Rachel felt the Solo was convenient and intuitive but perhaps not her top choice for spaciousness. “Overall, this sauna was easy to use and adjust but when in it you feel packed in there and it didn’t feel very warm,” she concluded, saying she personally prefers to sit in a sauna that reaches a stronger, more immersive level of heat.
Best Outdoor Infrared Sauna: Plunge Sauna
Plunge Sauna
| Fortune score | 4/5 |
at Plunge
- Our thoughts: A straightforward, good-looking outdoor sauna that heats reliably and offers flexible seating
- What it does: Uses a traditional heated cabin design to deliver steady, dry heat for full-body sweating and relaxation, with adjustable benches
- Who it’s for: Folks who want a timeless, outdoor-ready sauna that looks at home on a deck or in a backyard and prefer an intuitive, no-frills control setup
- What makes it different: Combines a high, tolerable working temperature with multi-level bench options
Pros
- Holds temperature well once heated and stays consistently warm during sessions
- Attractive wood paneling and classic cabin styling that looks “classy” in most outdoor spaces
- Extremely intuitive controls with a simple dial that requires virtually no learning curve
Cons
- Takes a relatively long time to heat up to target temperature
- Feels cramped with two very tall users and is most comfortable for up to three people max
- Limited extra features beyond basic lighting and no built-in audio system
Our Thoughts on the Plunge Sauna
The Plunge Sauna is our pick for the best outdoor infrared sauna because it blends reliable heat performance, flexible seating, and a timeless, wood-forward design that feels made for backyard placement. Unlike more tech-heavy saunas, this model leans into simplicity: it looks like a classic outdoor unit, heats to a strong working temperature, and uses controls that almost anyone can figure out in seconds.
During testing, Ellie found that the Plunge Sauna maintained its temperature very well. The interior stayed consistently warm, allowing her to sit at around 150 degrees Fahrenheit and build a solid sweat without feeling overwhelmed. She emphasized that, despite not usually enjoying heat exposure, this unit remained tolerable and ultimately satisfying, resulting in “a good sweat” and a better experience than she anticipated.
Comfort-wise, Ellie rated the seating a 4 out of 5, describing the wooden bench as serviceable and comfortable enough for a typical session, even if it is not the plushest seat on the market. She estimated that three people would be the maximum she’d want in the cabin, noting that when she shared it with another person over six feet tall, space began to feel tight. The multiple bench heights added useful flexibility, and she observed that the upper row would likely suit shorter users better, while still giving taller people enough room so that their knees are not digging uncomfortably into the bench in front of them.
Visually, the Plunge made a strong impression. Ellie rated the aesthetic a 5 out of 5, pointing to the attractive wood paneling and overall “classy” look that she felt would fit well in most home settings. The sauna’s design reads as polished and substantial rather than bulky, making it an appealing focal point in an outdoor wellness area or near a cold plunge tub.
Ease of use is another major strength. Ellie gave the controls a 5 out of 5, explaining that it’s essentially just a dial you turn on, with no need for extra guidance or a learning period. She described the interface as “super user friendly and universally understandable,” which lowers the barrier for guests or family members who might be unfamiliar with sauna settings.
Extra features are limited mostly to lighting, which she felt added a bit of ambiance but was not a major differentiator, and there is no built-in audio system, so users looking for integrated sound may want to pair it with an external speaker.
Overall, Ellie rated her experience a 4 out of 5, a strong score given that she typically does not enjoy high-heat environments. “Overall I am not a big fan of heat exposure, however, this sauna was tolerable,” she noted, adding that she “had a good sweat going” and “didn’t hate this,” which, for her, is high praise.
Best Infrared Sauna Blanket: HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket
HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket
| Fortune score | 4/5 |
at HigherDOSE
- Our thoughts: We like this sleek, easy-to-store infrared blanket for full-body heat sessions at home
- What it does: Uses infrared heating elements within a zip-up blanket to surround the body in dry heat
- Who it’s for: Ideal for folks who want sauna-like benefits in small spaces, prefer lying down, and need a solution that’s quick to set up and easy to put away
- What makes it different: Combines strong, steady heat with highly intuitive controls and a durable, wipe-clean shell
Pros
- Holds heat consistently across different levels
- More space-efficient than a cabin sauna
- Very intuitive single-knob control and quick setup make it easy to use regularly
Cons
- Strictly a one-person setup
- No protective inner layer included, so users may want towels or inserts for hygiene
- Lacks extra features like built-in audio or light therapy found in some higher-end saunas
Our Thoughts on the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket
The HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket is our pick for the best infrared sauna blanket because it packs many of the benefits of a traditional sauna into a compact, easy-to-store format that works in almost any home setting. It delivers consistent, satisfying heat, requires virtually no learning curve, and is simple to clean and pack away, making it especially appealing for people who do not have room (or the budget!) for a full wooden cabin.
Our tester Josh noted that the blanket “held the temperature very well and was consistent,” even though the unit is organized by levels rather than specific degree readings. The heat felt steady rather than spiky, which helped create a more relaxing experience over the course of a session. He reported that the warmth translated into a good heat and a good sweat, emphasizing that the infrared style felt distinct from steam but still delivered the kind of detoxifying, post-session glow you’d expect from sauna time.
From a comfort perspective, Josh found the blanket surprisingly accommodating. As someone around five feet ten inches, he did not feel cramped, noting that the design gave him enough room to settle in without feeling restricted at the shoulders or legs. Since there is no traditional bench or seat, the experience is more akin to lying on a mat and zipping yourself into a cocoon of warmth, which many users may find more relaxing than sitting upright. He rated the seating a 4 out of 5, reflecting that while it is simple, it works well for the intended style of use.
Aesthetically, the HigherDOSE blanket also performed well. “It’s very sleek with a nice material that feels durable and easy to maintain,” Josh said, rating the look a 5 out of 5. He noted that it would be easy to store in a home gym or even keep tucked in a closet without drawing attention, thanks to its streamlined design and foldable construction.
Overall, Josh rated his experience a 5 out of 5, summing it up by saying, “I like this sauna a lot. Very easy to use and set up, it doesn’t take up a lot of space and is comfortable,” and adding that he “Would definitely use this product again because it is quick and easy to use.”
Best Affordable Infrared Sauna: SAUNABOX Pulse Pro
SAUNABOX Pulse Pro
| Fortune score | 3.75/5 |
at SAUNABOX
- Our thoughts: A budget-conscious pick that heats reliably and fits easily in smaller spaces
- What it does: Uses an internal heater box to warm a one-person fabric cabin, creating a private, enclosed environment
- Who it’s for: Folks who want an entry-level at-home sauna experience, have limited room, and prioritize affordability and portability
- What makes it different: Lightweight, tent-like construction with a compact footprint and simple internal control box
Pros
- Holds temperature well once warmed and quickly recovers heat after you get in and out
- Small footprint and one-person design make it easy to place in tight indoor spaces
- Straightforward controls on the internal heater box are simple and easy to use
Cons
- One-person cabin with lawn-chair-style seating may feel cramped, especially for taller users
- Has limited room to move or change position, which may become uncomfortable
- Tent-like build and dark interior feel less inviting than wood-clad, more open designs
Our Thoughts on the SAUNABOX Pulse Pro
The SAUNABOX Pulse Pro is our pick for the best affordable infrared sauna because it has a genuine at-home sauna experience without the footprint or price of a full wooden cabin. Its tent-style build, internal heater box, and one-person configuration help keep costs down while still delivering consistent heat, making it a strong option for shoppers who want the benefits of heat exposure but are not ready to invest in a larger, permanent setup.
During testing, Rachel found that the Pulse Pro held temperature effectively, with the internal heater box warming the entire compartment and recovering quickly after the door was opened and closed. She appreciated that the controls were housed on that heater unit, which made it straightforward to adjust settings from inside the sauna without a complicated interface. Compared with some larger units, she felt the heating performance was solid for the category and suited to short, focused sessions rather than long, lounge-style soaks.
Comfort, however, was more mixed. Rachel described the seating as workable only for brief sessions, noting that “you’re sitting in a box for one person in a lawn chair,” which became cramped and uncomfortable over time. At a height of 5 feet 5 inches, she fit the structure well, but she emphasized that anyone taller would likely feel tight on space, with limited room to stretch or change positions. She rated the seating a 2 out of 5, reflecting that while it technically gets the job done, it is not a setup most people will want to relax in for extended periods.
Visually, Rachel felt the Pulse Pro would appeal to many users from a practical standpoint, even if it lacks the warmth of natural wood. She rated the aesthetic a 4 out of 5, saying it looks neat and compact and would fit perfectly in anyone’s home given how little space it takes up.
Overall, Rachel characterized the Pulse Pro as “comfortable but condensed,” and ultimately said she would not choose it long-term because she prefers more room to move and a more supportive seating setup for heat exposure. She rated her overall experience a 3 out of 5, which aligns with its role as a solid, budget-minded option rather than a premium showpiece.
What is an Infrared Sauna?
Infrared saunas use ceramic, carbon, or full-spectrum infrared heaters that emit infrared light, which the body absorbs as heat. Instead of filling the room with steam or extremely hot air, the panels warm your skin and tissues directly, and the cabin air stays noticeably cooler than in a traditional sauna.
Compared with steam or Finnish-style saunas, infrared models typically operate at lower temperatures yet can still produce a strong sweat response, which is why they appeal to people who dislike very high heat.
How We Tested and Selected the Best Infrared Saunas
Choosing the right infrared sauna depends on how you plan to use it, who will be using it, and where it will live in your space. In testing, our evaluation centered on performance, comfort, ease of use, and overall value to help different types of buyers identify the best fit.
Performance
For performance, each infrared sauna was brought to a target temperature, and testers tracked how long it took to reach specific benchmarks as well as how consistently it held that heat during a session. Units that warmed quickly and maintained a stable temperature throughout were rated more favorably than models that lagged or fluctuated significantly over time.
The type of heater also played a role in scoring, since some designs distribute heat more evenly or efficiently than others. Testers paid attention not only to the maximum temperature but also to how the heat felt on the body, including whether certain zones (like feet versus upper body) were noticeably cooler or hotter.
Comfort
Comfort testing focused on whether users could sit (or lie down) comfortably for the full length of a typical session. For cabin-style saunas, testers evaluated bench height, depth, back support, and distance from the heating elements to make sure the seating felt supportive rather than cramped. Saunas advertised as two-person or five-person units were assessed to see if that capacity felt realistic or if occupants ended up shoulder-to-shoulder.
For one-person models and sauna blankets, the focus shifted to whether testers felt restricted, whether there was room to shift positions, and how easy it was to get in and out. Products that stayed comfortable across the full session ranked higher than those that felt tight, awkward, or fatiguing after just a short time.
Controls
Testers looked for straightforward control interfaces, such as simple dials, clearly labeled keypads, or minimal button layouts. Models that allowed quick adjustments mid-session, including switching between temperature scales or tweaking heat intensity, scored especially well.
Timers and safety features were another priority. Saunas with built-in timers, easy-to-use knobs or digital countdowns, and clear indicators of remaining session time offered a better overall experience than those requiring guesswork or multiple steps to start and stop.
Features
Beyond the core heating and seating, our evaluations considered what extra features added meaningful value. These included items like LED lighting modes, built-in audio systems or Bluetooth speakers, towel hooks, and more. Testers noted not just whether these features existed but whether they were easy to use and genuinely improved the vibe or functionality of each session.
Value
Value was assessed by weighing price against performance, build quality, comfort, and features. A more affordable unit could rank highly if it heated reliably, felt solid and safe, and provided a consistently comfortable experience, even without premium add-ons.
How to Find the Best Infrared Sauna for You
Finding the right infrared sauna comes down to how you plan to use it, where it will live, and which features matter to you. Someone looking for quick solo recovery sessions in a small apartment will need a very different setup than a household building with an outdoor wellness hub for family and friends. Thinking through your space, comfort preferences, tech tolerance, and budget will help you narrow in on the type of infrared sauna that fits your lifestyle.
Available Space
Before choosing an infrared sauna, consider where it will go and how permanent you want it to be. A full-size multi-person cabin requires dedicated floor space, ventilation clearance, and access to an appropriate electrical circuit, while a portable unit or blanket can be stored away between uses. If you live in a smaller home or apartment, compact single-person cabins, tent-style saunas, or infrared blankets usually make more sense than a large outdoor structure.
Materials
Infrared saunas commonly use wood (such as hemlock or cedar) for cabins and benches, while portable tents and blankets rely on synthetic fabrics and insulation. Wood cabins typically feel more substantial, look more integrated in a home, and may offer better long-term durability. Fabric-based options trade that permanence for light weight and easier storage, which can be ideal if you do not want a sauna to be a permanent fixture in your living space.
Safety
Safety considerations include proper electrical requirements, ventilation, and sensible use habits. Larger cabins may require a dedicated circuit and professional installation to ensure they are wired correctly and protected against overloads. Regardless of type, we recommend that you limit session length, stay hydrated, and consult your doctor or other healthcare professional if you have cardiovascular, respiratory, or other medical conditions that could be affected by heat exposure.
Tech and Features
Infrared saunas range from very simple dial-and-go models to tech-forward designs with digital keypads, multiple heat zones, LED light programs, Bluetooth audio, and app connectivity. Extra features can make sessions more enjoyable and easier to customize, but they also add complexity and cost. If you prefer a straightforward, low-maintenance experience, focus on intuitive controls and a reliable heater first, then treat extras like speakers or lighting as nice-to-have rather than essential.
Sauna Type
You can choose between:
- Full-size cabins: Often wood, with room for one or more people, benches, and integrated heaters; best for frequent use and social sessions.
- Portable tent-style saunas: Fabric enclosures with an internal heater; more affordable and easier to move, but usually less spacious.
- Infrared sauna blankets: Fully portable and space-saving, designed for one person lying down; ideal for those with minimal space or who want a low-commitment option.
Your choice should reflect how many people will use the sauna, how often, and whether you value permanence and aesthetics over flexibility and storage.
Cost
Costs range from relatively inexpensive sauna blankets and compact tents to premium multi-person cabins with full-spectrum heaters and advanced tech. When comparing prices, consider not just the upfront cost but also installation needs, electricity use, and expected lifespan. It often makes sense to spend a bit more on a model that heats reliably, feels comfortable, and fits your space well, rather than choosing the cheapest option.
Benefits of Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas are popular because they offer a more tolerable heat experience while still producing a strong sweat response. Many people use them as part of a wellness or recovery routine, often after workouts or at the end of the day. Here are some benefits:
- Infrared saunas can support deep-feeling relaxation, as the radiant heat can create a soothing, enveloping warmth without the stifling air temperatures of a traditional steam room.
- Infrared sessions may support post-workout recovery by gently raising core temperature and promoting circulation in muscles and joints, which some users feel helps with stiffness and soreness after exercise.
- Infrared saunas can provide a cardiovascular effect similar to mild exercise for some people, since the body responds to the heat load with an increased heart rate and blood flow even though the air is not extremely hot.
- Because infrared saunas often operate at lower room temperatures than conventional saunas, users who cannot tolerate intense heat may still achieve a strong sweat and incorporate heat therapy into their routine more consistently.
Frequently asked questions
What is an infrared sauna?
An infrared sauna is a type of sauna that uses infrared heaters to emit radiant heat, which warms your body directly rather than superheating the surrounding air like a traditional or steam sauna. This allows for a strong sweat response at lower air temperatures, which many people find more comfortable and easier to tolerate.
What is the best infrared sauna for my home?
The best infrared sauna for your home depends on your space, budget, and how many people will typically use it, but a strong all-around choice is a full-spectrum model with reliable heat, intuitive controls, and comfortable seating. The Sun Home Luminar Outdoor 5-Person Infrared Sauna is our pick for the best overall infrared sauna thanks to its powerful heating performance, true multi-person capacity, and elevated, modern design; it reaches higher temperatures than many competitors, offers full-spectrum infrared warmth for deep, even heating, and feels intentionally crafted for both solo recovery and social sessions in a backyard or outdoor space.
What is the best outdoor infrared sauna?
The best outdoor infrared sauna is one that can handle the elements, heat reliably, and feel intuitive for everyone in the household to use. The Plunge Sauna is our pick for the best outdoor infrared sauna because it blends reliable heat performance, flexible seating, and a timeless, wood-forward design that feels made for backyard placement; unlike more tech-heavy saunas, this model leans into simplicity, looking like a classic outdoor unit, heating to a strong working temperature, and has easily used controls.
