Full spectrum vs far infrared sauna
- 149 saunas, 11 brandsEvery spec linked to its source
- True cost, upfrontInstall and running costs
- Fit and wiring checkedCheck your space
Of the 56 infrared saunas we list, 23 are sold as full spectrum and 36 as far infrared. The labels describe the heaters the maker says it uses. Here's how the two groups compare on published specs.
| Full spectrum | Far infrared | |
|---|---|---|
| Saunas we list | 23 | 36 |
| Median price | $4,999 | $2,799 |
| Median heater power, where published | 2,450 W | 2,032 W |
| Plug into a standard outlet | 13 | 18 |
| Median seats | 3 | 2 |
What the labels mean
Far-infrared saunas use emitters, often carbon panels, that the maker says give off mostly far infrared. Full-spectrum saunas add near and mid infrared emitters, sometimes as separate lamps. Makers rarely publish the output of each emitter type, so the two can't be compared on heat output alone. We don't make health claims about either.
How we score them
Our heating category gives full spectrum 10 and far infrared 8, plus credit for published top temperature, as set out in our methodology. That's a small part of the overall spec score.
What works
- Full spectrum: more emitter types, per the maker
- Far infrared: usually lower price
- Both: most are indoor cabinets that need little wiring
What to watch
- Full spectrum: costs more, and emitter details are rarely published
- Far infrared: fewer emitter types
- Both: lower top temperatures than traditional saunas
See all full-spectrum saunas or every infrared sauna we list.
Compare one of each
Put a full-spectrum and a far-infrared sauna side by side.
Before you buy
Check what your panel needs, installation cost and running cost. Still deciding on a type? Read infrared vs traditional and indoor vs outdoor, or see how the brands compare. A licensed electrician should confirm any wiring before you order.
Questions buyers ask
Is full spectrum better than far infrared?
It has more emitter types, according to makers, and usually costs more. Makers rarely publish each emitter's output, so there's no fair spec-based way to say one heats better. We don't make health claims.
Do full-spectrum saunas cost more?
In our catalog the median full-spectrum sauna costs $4,999 against $2,799 for far infrared.
Related guides
Independent by design. We order saunas with our published method. Cedar Scout may earn a commission when you buy through affiliate links on this page. Commissions never change which saunas appear, their scores or their order. How we earn money.