When it comes to the portable sauna cost, it can vary quite a bit. Some of the cheapest models go for under $100, while premium ones sell for over $500. For most buyers on a budget, cheap means affordable, and they don’t question why the low cost.
It is even more confusing given that most portable saunas look very similar to one another. You see two models that look nearly identical, where one costs $120 and the other $400. If you don’t understand how a portable sauna works, of course you would purchase the more affordable one.
- Portable Sauna Cost: Typical Price Ranges
- What Affects the Price of a Portable Sauna
- Steam vs Infrared Cost Comparison
- Hidden Costs to Consider
- FAQ
- How much does a portable sauna cost?
- Why are infrared saunas more expensive?
- Is a $100 portable sauna worth it?
- Do portable saunas increase electricity bills?
- Conclusion
However, buyers soon find out that low portable sauna cost comes with a few trade-offs. You see, cost depends on multiple aspects, such as size, type, build quality, and the like.
In this guide, we will look into different price ranges, what you get at each level, and what is worth paying for.
Portable Sauna Cost: Typical Price Ranges
A portable sauna typically costs anywhere between $80 and $500. Based on cost, they can be split into three categories – Budget, Mid-Range, and Premium.
The Budget tier includes portable saunas whose cost ranges from $80 to $150. These include basic steam tents, usually with a low-power steamer, roughly 800W-1000W. While they might have some features, usually they are minimal. The quality of materials is not the best, although it is good enough to do the job. With that said, its durability can be questionable.
Then you have the Mid-Range tier, which is a significant step up. Portable saunas of this tier can cost anywhere from $150 to $300, and they come with stronger steam units.
Typically, you can expect 1200W to 1500W, which is good enough for a strong, steady steam flow. Materials are also significantly better and more durable. Plus, you can also expect extra features, such as a larger sauna tent, stronger heat, and a remote control.
Finally, there is the Premium tier, with prices going anywhere from $300 to $500 and beyond. Here, you can expect higher-end infrared units or large steam sauna setups. They usually come with high-quality materials and offer much better insulation and durability. Their performance is more consistent, as well.
For most buyers, the Mid-Range tier is the best option. They can get a solid quality portable sauna without breaking the bank. Budget-tier options are more affordable, but they break more easily and don’t keep the heat. As for the Premium tier, it sounds solid, but its models are quite expensive. The mid-range tier does the job while being affordable.
What Affects the Price of a Portable Sauna
The portable sauna cost differs based on a variety of factors. This is why you can’t rely purely on the visuals. What it looks like can give you some information about it, but not enough.
By looking at it, you can easily determine the first factor, which is its type. If it has a steam generator, or steamer – it is a steam-based sauna. Steam-based models are usually cheaper, while infrared saunas cost more. That includes both infrared tents and infrared blankets. Their higher cost comes due to the infrared panel tech that they use.
Another factor that plays a big role is their power and heating system. Higher wattage usually means a higher price tag. However, you want a higher wattage, as it offers more stable heat output.
Size and capacity also play a role, with larger tents, naturally, costing more. This is particularly the case when it comes to 2 person units. But, in addition to size, you should also consider build quality. Tents with thicker fabrics, zippers, stronger frames, and insulation quality will be more expensive.
Lastly, features and extras. A lot of portable saunas come with extra features to justify a higher price tag. Remote control is common with a lot of models, and so is a timer. Then, there are included a chair, a mat, and various other accessories that can inflate the price.
Steam vs Infrared Cost Comparison
As mentioned previously, steam-based saunas are often a more affordable option. Depending on the model quality, you can expect a highly flexible price, going from $80 to $300. Generally, they are a much cheaper entry point if you want a sauna for home. Especially if you want something resembling a traditional sauna.
In comparison, a portable infrared sauna cost significantly more. In general, the price goes from around $200 to over $500. This means a higher upfront cost, but they are often easier to manage and have fewer moving parts. As such, they offer faster setup, easy storage, and transport.
Are Cheap Portable Saunas Worth It?
Generally, yes. Cheap portable saunas can still do the job you need them to do, but you must understand that they have their limits. Budget models will not offer the same quality of experience. They take longer to heat up, and their materials are not as strong and durable.
Still, it can.
Still, they can be used for short sessions to provide all the usual portable sauna benefits. Or, if you are a beginner and want to test portable saunas, they are also a good choice. Just keep in mind that a cheaper price tag will mean inconsistent performance. So, if performance is what you are after, you might want to consider a mid-range model.
Hidden Costs to Consider
Beyond the cost of the sauna itself, there are also some additional costs to consider. They can be considered “hidden” costs, although they aren’t really hidden – you just don’t think about them beforehand.
Things like electricity usage may come to mind, as each portable sauna requires power. Even so, as far as electricity goes, they don’t need too much – they need about as much power as a hair dryer.
Then, there are replacement parts, since something is likely to go out from time to time. It may be a steamer or zippers, and depending on the quality, you might be able to replace the part.
Beyond that, all that remains are accessories, such as towels and mats that you might want included. If they don’t come with the sauna, you can get them separately. They aren’t required, but many users want them for extra convenience.
All in all, these aren’t huge costs that will break the bank – just something to keep in mind.
FAQ
How much does a portable sauna cost?
With the large variety of types and models, portable sauna cost can go anywhere from $80 to over $500. The exact price depends on a variety of factors.
Why are infrared saunas more expensive?
They use infrared heating panels, which are a more complex heating technology than a simple steamer.
Is a $100 portable sauna worth it?
It can be for beginners or if you want to test the experience. Note that they come with limitations.
Do portable saunas increase electricity bills?
Yes, but only slightly. This is not a significant increase if you use it only occasionally.
Conclusion
The portable sauna cost varies from model to model, and it depends on a variety of factors. The main ones are the type (steam/infrared) and the quality of materials. Beyond that, details like the size, power, and additional features also play a large role.
Depending on the cost, you can split them into budget tier, mid-range tier, and premium tier. While the budget tier will do the job, it is usually so affordable due to its cheap quality.
Meanwhile, the premium tier has high-quality materials, but the cost is often too high. This is why most users go for mid-range. But, with realistic expectations, you can go for whichever model you want.
Check out our top picks for the best portable sauna for home, or the best portable sauna under $200 if you are on a budget.
