Infrared vs Traditional Saunas (2026): Which Sauna Is Better?

Infrared vs Traditional Saunas (2026): Which Sauna Should You Choose?

As sauna ownership grows rapidly in 2026, many buyers face the same question:

Should I choose an infrared sauna or a traditional sauna?

Both options offer health and relaxation benefits, but they work in completely different ways and deliver very different experiences. This guide explains the real differences so you can make the right decision for your home and lifestyle.

1. How Infrared and Traditional Saunas Work

Infrared Saunas

Infrared saunas use infrared light panels to heat the body directly rather than heating the air.

Key characteristics:

• Lower air temperature

• Heat penetrates the body directly

• Faster warm-up time

• Less intense heat sensation

Traditional Saunas

Traditional saunas use electric or wood-burning heaters to heat the air and sauna stones.

Key characteristics:

• Higher temperatures

• Hot air + steam (löyly)

• Deep, immersive heat

• Authentic sauna experience

👉 Explore traditional sauna systems:
Saunas & Sauna Heaters

2. Heat Experience & Comfort

Infrared Saunas

• Operate at lower temperatures

• Easier for beginners

• Less overwhelming heat

• Sessions can last longer

Traditional Saunas

• Hotter, more intense heat

• Steam creates humidity

• Strong detox and relaxation feeling

• Classic Finnish sauna ritual

Winner:

• Infrared for gentle, low-heat comfort

• Traditional for full sauna intensity and authenticity

3. Health & Wellness Benefits

Infrared Saunas

Often chosen for:

• Muscle recovery

• Relaxation

• Mild sweating sessions

• Lower cardiovascular strain

Traditional Saunas

Traditionally associated with:

• Deep sweating

• Circulation improvement

• Stress reduction

• Overall sauna wellness rituals

Winner:

Traditional saunas — broader, time-tested wellness experience.

4. Energy Usage & Operating Cost

Infrared Saunas

• Lower power consumption

• Shorter warm-up time

• Lower operating cost

Traditional Saunas

• Higher energy usage

• Longer warm-up

• More powerful heating elements

Winner:

Infrared saunas — more energy-efficient.

5. Installation & Space Requirements

Infrared Saunas

• Plug-and-play designs

• Minimal electrical requirements

• Often suitable for apartments or small rooms

Traditional Saunas

• Requires proper electrical setup

• Heater sizing is critical

• More flexibility in room design

Winner:

Infrared saunas — easiest to install.

6. Steam, Ritual & Sauna Culture

Infrared Saunas

• No steam

• No water on stones

• No löyly ritual

Traditional Saunas

• Steam (löyly) is central

• Temperature and humidity can be adjusted

• Cultural and social ritual experience

Winner:

Traditional saunas — unmatched sauna culture and ritual.

Final Verdict: Infrared or Traditional Sauna in 2026?

Choose an Infrared Sauna if you want:

✔ Lower heat sessions
✔ Easy installation
✔ Lower operating cost
✔ Gentle, everyday use

Best for:
Beginners, apartments, light wellness routines, quick sessions.

Choose a Traditional Sauna if you want:

✔ Authentic sauna experience
✔ High heat and steam
✔ Proven wellness ritual
✔ Long-term sauna enjoyment

Best for:
Homeowners, outdoor saunas, serious sauna users, luxury wellness spaces.

Need Help Choosing the Right Sauna?

We help customers choose based on:

• Available space

• Desired heat intensity

• Installation limitations

• Budget

• Long-term wellness goals

👉 Explore all sauna options:
Saunas & Sauna Heaters