Are you dreaming of a home sauna, but unsure whether it’s going to break the bank? We know how daunting it can be to choose the perfect sauna for your home when there are so many options on the market. Whether you’re looking for something compact for a small space or a more traditional Finnish sauna for an authentic experience, don’t fear! In this post, we’ll walk you through the nine best budget home saunas that don’t compromise on quality.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the information you need to pick the sauna that fits your space, style, and wallet.
Still can’t choose between infrared and traditional? Unsure which wood is best? You’ll find a buyer’s guide at the bottom of this post covering your major questions (orrrr, you can check out our ultimate guide to choosing a home sauna!).
Our top picks – Budget Home Saunas:
Best OUTDOOR Budget Home Saunas:
SaunaLife 3-Person Cube Series Outdoor Home Sauna Kit CL4G
Starting strong with this stylish and modern option! This is perfect if you’re looking for a budget home sauna that offers premium features – it looks and feels luxurious.
It’s perfect for couples and small families, as it comfortably fits up to three people. Plus, the beautiful design makes this a statement piece to add to your back garden or patio!
Type of Wood: Thermo-Spruce (wall and ceiling) – Knotless Thermo-Aspen (bench and backrest)
Type of Sauna: Outdoor – Traditional sauna
Capacity: Fits up to 3 people
Pros:
- Modern, sleek design
- Tempered bronze front glass door
- White LED Light Bar System with Wi-Fi App
- Shingled roof and Thermo-Spruce exterior
- Ergonomically constructed to support airflow
Cons:
- Heater not-included
- Higher price point due to the quality of the features
Features
- Wi-Fi, app based
- Ergonomic backrests
- Wireless handheld remote
- Durable construction for outdoor durability
- Large tempered glass door
- Thermo-Spruce exterior
- Heater Guard
Best INDOOR Budget Home Saunas:
Gracia 1-2 Person Low EMF Far Infrared Sauna
If budget is one of your key considerations, take a look at this model. This pocket-friendly sauna fits into your home without taking up a whole lot of space.
This is an excellent choice if you want the benefits of infrared heat therapy without breaking the bank. This compact sauna is designed for one or two people, making it ideal for small spaces.
Not only is the price amazing, it has a small footprint, it’s easy to install, it also boasts great additional features such as built-in speakers! This model provides excellent value for money!
This is also our pick for the best budget infrared sauna.
Type of Wood: Canadian Hemlock
Type of Sauna: Indoor – Low EMF Far Infrared sauna
Capacity: 1 to 2 people
Pros:
- Perfect for small spaces
- Very affordable
- Easy to set up and use (<1 hr assembly time)
Cons:
- Limited seating capacity
- Basic features compared to more expensive models
List of Features
- Low EMF Far Infrared technology
- Adjustable temperature control
- Interior LED control panel
- Built-in music system with Bluetooth capability
- Compact design suitable for 1-2 people
- Energy-efficient construction
- Glass door for a sleek, modern look
Best BARREL Budget Home Saunas:
SaunaLife Model E7 Sauna Barrel Ergo Series
This beauty stands out among budget home saunas for its unique barrel design. It comfortably fits up to four people! That makes it a great option for small families or if you want to have a couple of friends over.
You get the ambience of a traditional model, and an outdoor-ready build so you can feel confident it will survive treacherous weather conditions.
Type of Wood: Thermo-Spruce
Type of Sauna: Outdoor – Traditional sauna
Capacity: Fits up to 4 people
Pros:
- Premium arched backrest for all body sizes and heights
- Affordable pricing for its size and features
- Thermo-Spruce and shingle roof, perfect for outdoor use
- Tempered bronze glass
- White LED Light Bar System with Wi-Fi App
- Handcrafted in Northern Europe
Cons:
- Heater not-included
Features
- Ergonomic seating
- Thermo-Spruce and shingle roof
- Wi-Fi, app-based operation capability
- Wireless handheld remote
- Dotless white glowing LED lighting
- Tempered bronze glass
- Sauna heater guard
Best TRADITIONAL Budget Home Saunas:
SunRay Baldwin 2-Person Traditional Sauna
This is such an excellent value traditional sauna at an unbeatable price.
If you’re looking for a traditional model, you really can’t go past this one! The traditional heating system means you get that steamy, immersive sauna session you’re dreaming of.
Not only do you get the traditional experience, you have the added benefits of modern features like chromotherapy lighting and adjustable temperature settings.
Compact yet functional, this sauna comfortably fits two people, making it perfect for couples, tight spaces and apartments.
Type of Wood: Canadian Hemlock
Type of Sauna: Indoor – Traditional sauna
Capacity: 2 people
Pros:
- Compact design, ideal for small spaces
- Very affordable for a traditional sauna
- Traditional sauna experience/ambience
- Energy-efficient and cost-effective heating system
- Easy assembly
Cons:
- Limited to a 2-person capacity
Features
- Durable Canadian Hemlock wood construction
- Efficient electric heater for quick warm-up times
- Ergonomic seating and backrests
- Tempered Glass
Best INFRARED Budget Home Saunas:
Gracia 1-2 Person Low EMF Far Infrared Sauna
If budget is one of your key considerations, take a look at this model. This pocket-friendly sauna fits into your home without taking up a whole lot of space.
This is an excellent choice if you want the benefits of infrared heat therapy without breaking the bank. This compact sauna is designed for one or two people, making it ideal for small spaces.
Not only is the price amazing, it has a small footprint, it’s easy to install, it also boasts great additional features such as built-in speakers! This model provides excellent value for money!
We also selected this model as the best budget indoor sauna earlier on!
Type of Wood: Canadian Hemlock
Type of Sauna: Indoor – Low EMF Far Infrared sauna
Capacity: 1 to 2 people
Pros:
- Compact size, perfect for small spaces
- Very Affordable
- Easy to set up and use (<1 hr assembly time)
Cons:
- Limited seating capacity
- Basic features compared to more expensive models
List of Features
- Low EMF Far Infrared technology
- Adjustable temperature control
- Interior LED control panel
- Built-in music system with Bluetooth capability
- Compact design suitable for 1-2 people
- Energy-efficient construction
- Glass door for a sleek, modern look
Best HYBRID Budget Home Saunas:
Finnmark FD-4 Trinity Infrared-Steam Sauna
If you just can’t choose …
This is our top hybrid pick offering a combo of infrared and traditional functions! In a compact design and at an unbeatable price, you have the best of both worlds. Its flexibility, energy efficiency, and high-quality materials make it an excellent option to consider!
Type of Wood: Western Red Cedar & Thermo Aspen
Type of Sauna: Indoor – Traditional + Infrared sauna
Capacity: Fits up to 3 people
Pros:
- Combines both infrared and traditional
- Affordable as far as hybrids go
- Compact design perfect for smaller spaces
- High-quality construction (Western Red Cedar & Thermo Aspen)
- Offers customizable sauna experiences
- Red light therapy combined with chromotherapy
- Energy-efficient
- Traditional sauna heater included
Cons:
- Higher price point due to hybrid technology
- Requires more maintenance with dual systems
List of Features
- Hybrid sauna with both infrared and traditional functionality
- Compact size, ideal for small spaces
- Built-in LCD touchscreen controller with Bluetooth and 6″ HiFi marine-grade speakers
- Durable construction with glass door
- Digital control panel for easy customisation
- Capacity for 2-3 people
- Traditional 1.9kW sauna heater included
Best COMPACT Budget Home Saunas:
Auroom Cala Glass Mini Sauna
This is the best indoor compact sauna combining aesthetics and functionality. Its modern glass design and premium wood construction make it a truly stylish addition to any home.
Plus, its 1-person compact size ensures it fits comfortably in truly tight spaces! Though it comes at a higher price point, it’s definitely worth it for this little luxury!
Type of Wood: Thermo Aspen
Type of Sauna: Indoor – Traditional sauna
Capacity: 1 person (different sizes available)
Pros:
- Compact, space-saving design
- High-quality Thermo Aspen wood for durability
- Glass front for a modern aesthetic, sleek design
- Easy to assemble (3-4 hours)
- Backrest with remote controlled LED Lighting, creating a wonderful ambiance
- Cost effective to run
Cons:
- Higher price point due to the quality of the features
- Heater sold separately
List of Features
- Compact size, designed for home use
- Constructed from premium Thermo Aspen wood
- Glass front panel for a contemporary look
- Bench seating for a comfortable experience
- Efficient heat distribution for maximum wellness benefits
- Simple assembly process
Best 4-PERSON Budget Home Saunas:
Maxxus Low EMF Far Infrared Sauna (MX-K406-01)
With enough room for four, this sauna is ideal for families, small gatherings, and if you love to host!
If you want a great infrared (spacious!) home sauna that fits within a reasonable budget, the Maxxus is a perfect pick.
Type of Wood: Canadian Hemlock
Type of Sauna: Indoor – Low EMF Far infrared sauna
Capacity: 4 people
Pros:
- Spacious design accommodates up to four people
- Energy-efficient carbon infrared
- Bluetooth speakers
- Very affordable for a 4 person sauna
- Colour therapy lighting
- Tempered glass door and windows
Cons:
- Larger size requires more installation space
Features
- Low EMF far infrared technology for safer, long-term use
- Bluetooth-enabled speakers for music or podcasts during sessions
- Interior/exterior LED control panel
- Interior colour therapy lighting
- Carbon heating panels
- Tempered glass door and 2 full-length side windows
Best MAXI-SIZE Budget Home Saunas:
Golden Designs Catalonia 8-Person Infrared Sauna
A crazy price for what you are getting here… it’s rare to find an indoor sauna of this size, and this incredible value option accommodates up to eight people. It’s simply perfect for large families, hosting, and social gatherings. Plus, it features a removable bench – so if you want to practice your hot yoga, this is the pick for you!
If you’re after a large-capacity home sauna without the high price tag, this is the model for you!
Type of Wood: Canadian Hemlock
Type of Sauna: Indoor – Ultra Low EMF Infrared sauna technology
Capacity: 8 people
Pros:
- Accommodates up to 8 people
- Removable benches for hot yoga
- Chromotherapy lighting
- Bluetooth stereo and speakers
- Easy home assembly
- Floor-Feet reflexology heater
Cons:
- Requires significant space for installation
Features
- Low EMF far infrared technology
- Bluetooth-enabled speakers
- Bronze Tinted Tempered Glass
- Digital control panel for easy temperature and time settings
- Oxygen ionizer to enhance air quality inside the sauna
- Energy-efficient far infrared heating
- Interior and exterior LED control panel
- 5 Year Limited Warranty
How to Choose the Best Home Sauna
Jumping headfirst into the topic of saunas can be very overwhelming! It comes with a lotttt of new (and confusing) terms.
You don’t know where to start? Whether to believe team purist or team tech? Well, we will rescue you by clearing up (without taking any sides) the factors that you should consider before dropping cash.
Infrared vs Traditional:
Choosing between an infrared sauna and a traditional sauna depends largely on your preferences.
Traditional
Pros
- Authentic sauna experience
- Humidity control
- Better fit for outdoors
Cons
- Less affordable units & running costs
- Longer pre-heating times
- May need more cleaning and maintenance
Infrared
Pros
- More affordable units & running costs
- No venting
- Fast heat-up time
Cons
- Limited outdoor use
Do infrared saunas have more benefits than traditional saunas?
Well, besides the incredible relaxation benefits, the true benefits to be reaped are found in long term use. So the sauna with the most benefits, is the one you will enjoy most (and actually use!)
Though steam saunas offer potential respiratory benefits, and Near-Infrared light is reportedly great for improving skin health (collagen production), all saunas provide similar overall health benefits if used regularly.
Is infrared less efficient because it is less hot?
The theory behind infrared saunas is that by using infrared light, heat can penetrate the body and muscle tissue more deeply. Thus, this produces the same benefits at lower temperatures.
Although these pointers give a quick overview of what to expect for each type, remember the KEY DECISION FACTOR should be your personal needs and tastes!
Types of wood used for saunas:
The construction quality of your sauna, and particularly the type of wood used, plays a crucial role in its durability, heat retention, and overall comfort.
Here’s a quick overview of the most common types of wood.
What is Thermowood?
Thermowood is a thermal treatment of wood, performed so that the wood acquires unique properties.
During the processing the cellular structure of the wood changes. It becomes as dry as if it has been drying for several hundred years. Resin completely evaporates from the wood. Additionally, its thermal conductivity decreases, strength increases, and water absorption significantly decreases.
Why look for Thermowood?
- High heat resistance and long term durability
- Very resistant to rot and mould
- Retains shape under high heat and moisture conditions
- Thermal insulation properties
- Various shades and aesthetic choices
Type of heater:
Traditional sauna:
- Wood-Burning Stove
- Electric
Infrared:
- Full Spectrum Infrared
- Low EMF
- Ultra Low EMF
Additional Features:
One of the great aspects of owning a sauna is the ability to customise it with features that enhance your experience. From luxury add-ons, to combining multiple wellness practices, you can really make your experience your own.
- Sauna stones (traditional sauna or hybrid)
- Smart controls and automation
- Built-in audio and entertainment systems
- Chromotherapy (lighting) – Red light therapy
- Aromatherapy
- Salt therapy (halo-therapy)
- Traditional accessories (sauna hat, Sauna Bucket and Ladle)
- Sauna pillows, backrests & heater guard
Where Can I Buy A Sauna?
Worldwide
Huge range in this excellent online marketplace. Free shipping on most orders in the lower 48 states (USA). Exceptions apply for Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Alaska, non-contiguous US addresses, and Canada. Worldwide shipping is available to almost all accessible locations. That makes this a great place to begin your search, especially if you are non-US based!
This manufacturer builds their own infrared saunas. Originally US born and based, they have a vast distribution network worldwide. There are separate websites based on geographical region which you can find listed here: USA, Canada, Germany, Europe, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, China. Delivery available throughout the US, Europe, Asia, and the world!
Thousands of products stocked from industry leading manufacturers. Free same-day shipping within the contiguous US. International shipping is available, and you can also make arrangements to have your order shipped to an export company of your choice.
This company constructs their own beautiful wooden saunas, cold plunges and offers bundle packages. Delivery in the US is generally handled by FedEx. Hawaiian, Alaskan and International customers can opt to ship with a freight provider of their choice.
USA only
These guys build their own traditional, infrared, hybrid saunas, ice baths, and they are beautiful sleek models at super competitive prices. Based in Australia (great option for Aussie and Kiwi buyers!) they ship internationally as well.
An excellent online marketplace with a great range of saunas. Free shipping on most orders – delivery only available in the lower 48 states (USA ONLY).
This manufacturer creates their own infrared saunas, traditional saunas, cold plunges, red light therapy and infrared blankets. Delivery in the USA only.
Beautiful and wide range of products. Free shipping on all orders (unless you order just stones) (USA ONLY).
Conclusion – 8 Person Home Saunas
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to home saunas. However, with the help of our guide, we’re sure you’re one step closer to finding the perfect fit! Whether you’re looking for luxury, energy efficiency, or a budget-friendly option, there IS a perfect sauna out there for you.
Take another look at our top picks above and see which one tickles your fancy.
If you’re still weighing up whether a sauna is right for you, we got you. We’ve compiled all the info you’ll ever need to choose the best sauna for your home into our tell-all guide.
FAQs About Budget Home Saunas
Here you’ll find some relevant questions about budget home saunas. If you don’t find the answer to your questions please leave us a comment and it’ll be our pleasure to help you.