Looking Beyond the Benovo 2-Person Outdoor Infrared Sauna? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How Each Alternative Compares

Smartmak Hybrid Sauna, 1-5 Person

The Smartmak Hybrid Sauna swaps fixed dimensions for a customized size, allowing you to fit specific outdoor footprints. Unlike the Benovo’s single infrared mode, this unit offers steam and traditional heating alongside infrared. You gain app control and WiFi connectivity, features the Benovo lacks. The trade-off is complexity; you must manage dual heating systems and potential electrical upgrades for steam generation. This model suits users who want a multi-mode spa experience rather than a dedicated infrared chamber. It is ideal if you prioritize versatility and smart home integration over plug-and-play simplicity. The hemlock wood construction remains consistent, but the interior layout changes based on your chosen size.

Smartmak 3-Person Hemlock Low EMF Sauna

This Smartmak indoor/outdoor option differs significantly in power requirements. It operates on standard 120V outlets, whereas the Benovo requires a dedicated 220V circuit. This makes installation easier for renters or homes without upgraded electrical panels. The unit is slightly wider at 83.5 inches compared to the Benovo’s 47.24 inches, offering more shoulder room. You get low EMF shielding and built-in entertainment, which the Benovo does not list. However, the heat output is lower, and the max temperature may not reach the Benovo’s 149°F. This choice fits users who need a budget-friendly, easy-install sauna for smaller spaces or garages, prioritizing convenience over high-heat performance.

Duthss 4-6 Person Canadian Hemlock Barrel Sauna

The Duthss Barrel Sauna is a substantial upgrade in capacity and power. It supports 4 to 6 people, compared to the Benovo’s 2-person limit. The 6KW heater is nearly three times more powerful than the Benovo’s 2150W system, delivering intense traditional heat. The barrel design offers superior structural integrity and even heat distribution. You give up the far infrared panels and red light therapy found in the Benovo. This unit is strictly for outdoor use and requires significant electrical infrastructure. It suits large families or groups who want a traditional sauna experience. The weight of 1124 pounds means you need a reinforced deck or ground-level placement. It is not a direct replacement but a different category of outdoor sauna.

Smartmak 6-Person Outdoor Barrel Sauna

This Smartmak barrel sauna targets large groups with a 6 to 8-person capacity. It uses a 6KW heater for traditional steam heat, contrasting sharply with the Benovo’s 2150W infrared system. You lose the infrared panels and red light therapy entirely. The barrel shape and hemlock wood construction are similar in material but differ in form factor. This unit is designed for outdoor steam sessions, requiring water and a steam generator. It is best for users who prefer traditional saunas over infrared. The 220V requirement matches the Benovo, but the power draw is much higher. You gain significant seating capacity and traditional heat intensity. This model is for those who want a social, high-heat experience rather than a compact infrared retreat.

InfraHHZQ 4-Person Outdoor Far-Infrared Sauna

The InfraHHZQ sauna offers a middle ground between infrared and traditional heating. It supports 4 people, doubling the Benovo’s capacity. The unit combines far infrared and traditional heaters, giving you dual-mode flexibility. It uses hemlock wood and operates on 220V power. The dimensions are larger, with a length of 62.2 inches versus the Benovo’s 47.24 inches. You gain more space for groups but lose the dedicated red light therapy panels. The weight is 480 pounds, requiring a sturdy floor. This option suits families who want shared relaxation with varied heat options. It is ideal if you want to switch between infrared and traditional modes. The lack of smart features keeps it simple, similar to the Benovo’s straightforward approach.

ZONEMEL 2-3 Person Hybrid Hemlock Sauna

The ZONEMEL hybrid sauna is designed for indoor use, unlike the Benovo’s outdoor focus. It supports 2 to 3 people, matching the Benovo’s capacity range. The 4.5KW heater provides steam and infrared modes, offering more versatility than the Benovo’s single infrared system. You gain the ability to use it in any room with 220V power. The trade-off is the loss of weather-resistant construction and outdoor placement. This unit is best for users who want year-round access without outdoor exposure. It suits those who prioritize dual heating modes and indoor convenience. The hemlock wood interior provides a natural feel. You give up the outdoor aesthetic and weather-proofing. This model is for indoor enthusiasts who want spa-like features in a compact footprint.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Benovo 2-Person Outdoor Infrared Sauna

Best for: Small patios and couples seeking infrared heat

Heating Type

Far infrared

Person Capacity

2

Placement

Outdoor

Heater Power

2150W

Voltage

220V

Max Temperature

0°F-149°F

View on Amazon: Benovo 2-Person Outdoor Infrared Sauna Affiliate link

The Benovo is a compact outdoor infrared sauna designed for two users. It features 2150W of heating power across seven carbon panels and three red light tubes. The unit reaches temperatures up to 149°F and requires a 220V electrical connection. Its hemlock wood cabin offers a natural interior with a modern black exterior. This model suits small patios or decks where space is limited.

Pros

• Includes 7 carbon infrared panels for consistent heat distribution
• Integrates 3 red light tubes for added therapy options
• Reaches a maximum temperature of 149°F for deep sweating
• Constructed with durable hemlock wood for outdoor durability
• Compact footprint fits well on small patios or decks

Cons

• Requires a 220V electrical outlet which may need professional installation
• Limited to a 2-person capacity compared to larger family units
• Fixed temperature range starts at 0°F which may be less precise than digital controls

Good fit if

• You have limited outdoor space on a patio or deck
• You prefer the targeted heat of far infrared technology
• You want a compact unit for one or two users

Skip if

• You need a 220V electrical circuit already installed
• You require a sauna for more than two people
• You prefer traditional wood-fired heating over electric infrared

Verdict: Benovo 2-Person Outdoor Infrared Sauna offers a compact, electric solution for small outdoor spaces. It fits users who want infrared heat without the complexity of larger, multi-person units.

2 Best electric heater

Smartmak Hybrid Sauna, 1-5 Person

Best for: Users wanting dual steam and infrared heating

Person Capacity

1-5

Placement

Indoor/Outdoor

Heater Power

6KW

Wood Type

Canadian Hemlock/Cedar

Control Type

WiFi, Bluetooth

Dimensions

Customized size

View on Amazon: Smartmak Hybrid Sauna, 1-5 Person Affiliate link

This Smartmak unit combines far-infrared and traditional steam heating in one Canadian Hemlock or Cedar structure. You get a 6KW heater reaching 195°F for steam and 149°F for infrared. WiFi and Bluetooth control let you adjust settings remotely. The design supports 1 to 5 people with panoramic glass doors. It includes red light therapy and an air purifier for a complete wellness experience.

Pros

• Dual infrared and steam heating modes
• 6KW heater reaches 195°F for steam
• WiFi and Bluetooth smartphone control
• Canadian Hemlock or Cedar construction

Cons

• Customized sizing requires specific measurements
• Steam and infrared modes run separately
• No fixed standard dimensions listed

Good fit if

• You want both steam and infrared benefits
• You need remote smartphone control
• You have space for a large custom build

Skip if

• You prefer a fixed standard size
• You want simultaneous steam and infrared
• You need a compact 2-person unit

Verdict: Smartmak 5-Person Hybrid Sauna suits those seeking a high-capacity, customizable sauna with smart features and dual heating options. It fits users who value versatility over standard dimensions.

3 Best budget

Smartmak 3-Person Hemlock Low EMF Sauna

Best for: small indoor spaces with standard outlets

Heating Type

Far-infrared

Placement

Indoor, outdoor

Voltage

120V

Max Temperature

135°F

Wood Type

Canadian Hemlock

Control Type

Digital controller

View on Amazon: Smartmak 3-Person Hemlock Low EMF Sauna Affiliate link

This 2-person sauna uses Canadian Hemlock and far-infrared heating. It plugs into a standard 120V outlet, so you do not need special wiring. The unit reaches 135°F and includes Bluetooth speakers and red light therapy. It fits in small spaces with a compact footprint. You can place it indoors or outdoors. Assembly is quick with pre-assembled panels.

Pros

• 120V standard plug for easy indoor setup
• Canadian Hemlock wood construction
• Bluetooth speakers and red light therapy included
• Reaches 135°F maximum temperature

Cons

• Warranty is limited to indoor use only
• Heating type listed as both Infrared and Traditional
• Lower max temperature than 220V competitors

Good fit if

• You want a plug-and-play indoor sauna
• You prefer natural wood materials
• You need Bluetooth audio integration

Skip if

• You require a dedicated 220V outlet
• You plan to use it exclusively outdoors
• You want a higher temperature range

Verdict: Smartmak Indoor/Outdoor Hemlock Infrared Sauna is a compact option for users who want simple 120V setup and built-in entertainment. It suits those who prioritize natural wood and red light therapy over high-heat performance.

4 Best premium

Duthss 4-6 Person Canadian Hemlock Barrel Sauna

Best for: large outdoor group sessions

Heating Type

Electric, dry sauna and steam-style

Person Capacity

4-6

Placement

Outdoor

Heater Power

6kW

Voltage

220V

Wood Type

Canadian hemlock

View on Amazon: Duthss 4-6 Person Canadian Hemlock Barrel Sauna Affiliate link

The Duthss barrel sauna offers a spacious 4–6 person layout with a 6kW electric heater. It uses Canadian hemlock wood and requires a 220V outlet. The curved design promotes efficient heat circulation. This unit is suitable for outdoor backyard use. It includes tempered glass doors and a shingle roof. The system supports dry sauna and steam-style sessions.

Pros

• 6kW electric heater for rapid heating
• Spacious 4–6 person barrel layout
• Durable Canadian hemlock construction
• 220V power requirement ensures high output
• Tempered glass door for natural light

Cons

• Requires 220V electrical connection
• Heavy 1124-pound build
• Built-in controls only

Good fit if

• You need seating for 4–6 adults
• You have a 220V outdoor outlet
• You prefer traditional barrel designs

Skip if

• You only have 110V outlets
• You want a compact 2-person unit
• You prefer cedar wood over hemlock

Verdict: The Duthss 4-6 Person Outdoor Barrel Sauna fits groups seeking a large, traditional outdoor experience. It delivers high heat output for shared sessions. This model is ideal for those with the necessary electrical infrastructure.

5 Best 6-8 person

Smartmak 6-Person Outdoor Barrel Sauna

Best for: large outdoor groups seeking traditional steam heat

Heating Type

Steam

Person Capacity

6

Placement

Outdoor

Heater Power

6kW

Voltage

220V

Max Temperature

195°F (90°C)

View on Amazon: Smartmak 6-Person Outdoor Barrel Sauna Affiliate link

This Smartmak barrel sauna offers a 71-inch cubic footprint for six people. It uses a 6kW electric heater to generate traditional steam heat. The unit is built from Canadian hemlock and includes a bitumen roof for weather protection. You get a complete kit with rocks and a bucket. It suits those who want a large, traditional outdoor steam experience without indoor installation.

Pros

• Generates traditional steam heat with a 6kW electric heater
• Spacious 71-inch cubic design fits six people
• Constructed from durable Canadian hemlock wood
• Includes bitumen roof for thermal insulation and waterproofing

Cons

• Requires a dedicated 220V, 30A electrical circuit
• No digital control panel or remote included in data
• Heater requires separate mounting rack installation

Good fit if

• You prefer traditional steam heat over infrared
• You have outdoor space for a large barrel structure
• You want a complete kit with rocks and bucket

Skip if

• You only have standard 110V household outlets
• You want a compact unit for small yards
• You prefer infrared heating technology

Verdict: Smartmak 6-Person Outdoor Wood Barrel Sauna provides a robust, high-capacity steam experience for outdoor enthusiasts. It is best for buyers who prioritize traditional heat and ample seating over digital convenience.

6 Also great

InfraHHZQ 4-Person Outdoor Far-Infrared Sauna

Best for: groups wanting shared natural wood sauna

Heating Type

Far infrared

Person Capacity

4

Placement

Outdoor

Heater Power

2600 W

Voltage

240 V

Wood Type

Red cedar and Canadian hemlock

View on Amazon: InfraHHZQ 4-Person Outdoor Far-Infrared Sauna Affiliate link

This InfraHHZQ cabin fits four people with 2600W of far-infrared heat. It uses red cedar and Canadian hemlock for durability. The 240V power supports steady warming. Multicolor LED lights add ambiance. You get a spacious 62.2 by 46.8 by 81.9-inch structure. It suits groups wanting shared relaxation. The build aims for long-lasting outdoor use.

Pros

• 2600W far-infrared heating for effective warmth
• Red cedar and Canadian hemlock construction
• Multicolor LED lighting for ambiance
• Spacious 4-person capacity

Cons

• Heavier at 480 pounds for installation
• Only one height option listed for this size
• No remote or app control mentioned

Good fit if

• You want a larger group sauna
• You prefer natural wood materials
• You like customizable lighting

Skip if

• You need smart connectivity
• You have limited outdoor space
• You want a smaller 2-person unit

Verdict: InfraHHZQ 4-Person Outdoor Far-Infrared Sauna delivers solid heat and natural materials for groups. It fits families who want shared relaxation without smart features.

7 Best indoor

ZONEMEL 2-3 Person Hybrid Hemlock Sauna

Best for: Indoor steam and infrared therapy

Heating Type

Hybrid (full-spectrum infrared + steam)

Person Capacity

2-3 Person

Placement

Indoor

Heater Power

4.5KW stove, 10 heating elements

Voltage

220V

Max Temperature

195°F steam, 149°F far infrared

View on Amazon: ZONEMEL 2-3 Person Hybrid Hemlock Sauna Affiliate link

This ZONEMEL hybrid sauna combines a 4.5KW steam heater with infrared panels for indoor use. It features Canadian Hemlock construction and fits 2-3 people. The unit reaches 195°F for steam or 149°F for far-infrared therapy. You get full-view tempered glass, an oxygen ionizer, and mood lighting. It requires a 220V connection. This model suits those wanting customizable heat without outdoor installation.

Pros

• Hybrid heating with 4.5KW steam stove and 10 infrared elements
• Canadian Hemlock wood resists warping and cracking
• Reaches 195°F for steam therapy in 15-20 minutes
• Includes oxygen ionizer and 7-color LED lighting

Cons

• Designed for indoor placement only
• Requires 220V electrical connection
• Modes must be used separately, not simultaneously

Good fit if

• You want steam and infrared options in one unit
• You have space for a 2-3 person indoor sauna
• You prefer Canadian Hemlock wood construction

Skip if

• You need an outdoor-rated sauna
• Your home only has standard 110V outlets
• You want to use steam and infrared at the same time

Verdict: ZONEMEL 2-3 Person Hybrid Indoor Sauna offers dual heating modes for versatile indoor relaxation. It fits users who want steam and infrared therapy without installing an outdoor unit.

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Frequently asked questions

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