When it comes to saunas, you have two main options: traditional (heated air/rocks) and infrared (radiant heat). Both deliver excellent wellness benefits, but the experience, comfort, and setup differ. Here’s how they stack up.

Heat Source & Temperature

• Traditional Sauna: Heats the air with a stove and rocks. Typical range: 160–200°F. The “löyly” (steam) ritual is a highlight for many enthusiasts.
• Infrared Sauna: Uses infrared emitters to heat your body directly. Typical range: 110–140°F, often more comfortable for longer sessions.

Classic pick: high-quality traditional setup | Comfort-focused IR: best-selling infrared

Sweat Depth & Perceived Intensity

Traditional saunas drive a strong surface sweat via hot air, while infrared tends to penetrate deeper at lower temps, often perceived as a “deeper” sweat.

Deep-sweat IR option: popular infrared model

Health Benefits

Both styles may support circulation, detoxification, stress reduction, and muscle recovery. Traditional saunas win for ritual and group sessions; infrared is great for heat-sensitive users and daily recovery routines.

Training hard? See this athlete-oriented infrared pick.

Cost, Efficiency & Installation

• Traditional: May require dedicated space and ventilation; higher peak temps mean more energy demand.
• Infrared: Often plug-and-play, energy-efficient, and more affordable upfront.

Great starter IR: budget-friendly infrared | Premium full-spectrum: top-tier experience

So, Which Should You Choose?

If you love intense heat, steam rituals, and a classic vibe, go traditional (see this setup). For daily, comfortable sessions with easy install and efficiency, pick infrared (see this model).