When shopping for a home or commercial sauna, one of the most common questions people ask is whether an infrared sauna or a traditional sauna is better. The truth is, neither option is universally “better” — the right choice depends on how you want to use your sauna, how much heat you prefer, and what kind of experience you’re looking for. Below, we break down the key differences to help you decide.
Here is a video from the JRE Podcast where they compare Traditional Saunas Vs Infrared Saunas:
What Is a Traditional Sauna?
A traditional sauna uses an electric or wood-burning heater filled with rocks to heat the air inside the room. Water can be poured over the hot stones to create steam, increasing humidity and intensifying the heat. Traditional saunas typically operate between 160°F and 200°F and deliver the classic sauna experience many people associate with Nordic bathing culture.
Best for:
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High-heat lovers
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Steam and humidity enthusiasts
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Authentic sauna rituals
What Is an Infrared Sauna?
Infrared saunas use infrared heating panels that warm your body directly rather than heating the surrounding air. This allows the sauna to operate at lower temperatures — usually 120°F to 170°F — while still producing a deep, penetrating heat. Infrared saunas are often easier to install and can run on standard household outlets.
Best for:
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Lower-temperature sessions
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Relaxation and recovery
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Quick, energy-efficient use
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Infrared Sauna | Traditional Sauna |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Type | Radiant (direct to body) | Heated air & steam |
| Temperature Range | 120°F–170°F | 160°F–200°F |
| Humidity | Dry heat | Dry or wet (steam) |
| Warm-Up Time | 10–20 minutes | 30–45 minutes |
| Installation | Plug-and-play | Often hardwired |
| Experience | Gentle, penetrating heat | Intense, classic sauna feel |
Health & Wellness Benefits
Both sauna types offer proven wellness benefits, including improved circulation, muscle relaxation, stress reduction, and post-workout recovery. Traditional saunas tend to promote heavier sweating due to higher air temperatures, while infrared saunas are often favored by users who want a more comfortable session with less heat stress.
Which Sauna Is Better?
The better sauna is the one that fits your lifestyle:
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Choose a traditional sauna if you love intense heat, steam, and an authentic sauna environment.
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Choose an infrared sauna if you prefer lower temperatures, faster sessions, and simpler installation.
Many sauna owners find that consistency matters more than sauna type — the best sauna is the one you’ll actually use regularly.
Final Thoughts
Infrared and traditional saunas each offer unique advantages, and neither is a wrong choice. Whether you want the classic high-heat ritual or a modern, low-temperature wellness solution, both options can elevate your daily routine and long-term health.
At Sauna Sector, we carry a curated selection of high-quality infrared and traditional saunas to match every preference and space.