Infrared vs Traditional Sauna: Which Should You Buy?
Both saunas make you sweat and both aid recovery — but they get you there differently. Here’s how to pick between an infrared and a traditional sauna for your home.
How they heat
An infrared sauna uses carbon or ceramic panels to warm your body directly at a gentler air temperature (~120–150°F). A traditional sauna heats the air with an electric or wood stove (~160–210°F) and lets you pour water over rocks for steam (löyly).
Wiring & installation
Infrared cabins run on a standard 120V outlet — plug and play. Traditional electric-stove saunas need a dedicated 240V circuit; wood-burning stoves need none but require a flue. See exact specs on each sauna product page.
Experience & benefits
Infrared is gentler, easier to tolerate for longer sessions, and popular for daily recovery and relaxation. Traditional saunas deliver the intense, high-heat, steam experience many people associate with "real" sauna culture — and heat a group better.
Which is right for you?
Choose infrared for easy install, lower running cost, and gentle daily use. Choose traditional for authentic high heat, steam, and multi-person sessions. NÖR offers both — from the compact 2-person Nordic Sauna to the 6–8 person Odin’s Hall.
| Infrared | Traditional | |
|---|---|---|
| Heat | 120–150°F, direct | 160–210°F, air + steam |
| Wiring | Standard 120V outlet | 240V circuit or wood stove |
| Warm-up | Fast | Longer |
| Best for | Daily, gentle, solo | High heat, steam, groups |
Frequently asked questions
Is an infrared or traditional sauna better?
Neither is strictly better — infrared is gentler and easier to install, traditional gives higher heat and steam. NÖR offers both; the right one depends on your space, wiring, and preference.
Does an infrared sauna need special wiring?
No — NÖR infrared cabins run on a standard 120V outlet. Traditional electric-stove saunas need a dedicated 240V circuit.
How much does a home sauna cost?
NÖR saunas start at $8,000 for a 2-person infrared cabin and go to $15,000 for the 6–8 person Odin’s Hall, with free freight and monthly financing.