Which Is Better For You, An Infrared Sauna Or A Steam Room?
The main difference between an infrared sauna and a steam room is how they heat your body. An infrared sauna heats your body directly, from the inside out, using light...
What Is an Infrared Sauna?
Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air around you to temperatures of 80°C or above, infrared saunas work by emitting radiant heat that is absorbed directly by the body. This means the cabin itself operates at a lower ambient temperature, typically between 45°C and 55°C, while still inducing a deep, thorough sweat. Many people find the heat more comfortable to tolerate for longer sessions, which is part of why infrared has become such a popular choice for home wellness setups. There are also meaningful differences in the type of infrared heat each model produces, which is worth understanding before choosing.
Far-infrared heating
The saunas in this collection use far-infrared heating as their primary output. Far-infrared wavelengths penetrate deepest into the body, warming muscles and tissue from within rather than simply raising the temperature of the air. This is what gives infrared saunas their characteristic sensation of warmth radiating from the inside out, rather than the enveloping hot-air feel of a traditional Finnish cabin.
Full-spectrum and near-infrared
Some models also incorporate near and mid-infrared heaters to complement far-infrared output, offering a broader therapeutic range across a single session. The Jaquar Paire, for example, uses a combination of full-spectrum front and rear heaters alongside carbon side panels, which means both surface-level warmth and deeper tissue heat are available within the same cabin.
The 2 Person Range at Heracles Wellness
A 2 person infrared sauna sits at a practical midpoint. It is compact enough to fit into a spare room, a garage conversion, or a garden without demanding significant space, yet spacious enough for two adults to sit comfortably side by side. For those who prefer to use their sauna alone, the extra room makes the experience considerably more relaxed. The range spans both indoor saunas and outdoor saunas, covering a variety of budgets and specifications from brands including Jaquar, Insignia, and Heracles Wellness.
Noir Infrared Sauna with Red Light Therapy 1-2 Person
The Noir is the most accessible entry point in this collection. It is a plug-and-play indoor sauna that assembles in around 20 minutes with two people, requires no specialist tools, and connects to a standard 13-amp UK socket without any electrical work. The cabin measures 100cm x 100cm externally, making it suitable for spare rooms, home gyms, or larger bathrooms, and the interior is lined with six low-EMF mica heaters with a total output of 1,970W.
What sets the Noir apart from a straightforward infrared cabin is the integrated red light therapy panel. This adjustable panel can be used independently or alongside the infrared heaters, targeting wavelengths associated with collagen stimulation, improved circulation, and accelerated muscle recovery. The cabin also features LED chromotherapy lighting, a starlight ceiling, Bluetooth speakers, and a K3 touchscreen control panel. Interior dimensions are 92cm x 92cm with a bench size of 85cm x 50cm. The Noir carries a 2-year warranty on heaters, electrical components, cabinetry, and the red light therapy panel.
Jaquar Paire Infrared Sauna 2 Seater
The Jaquar Paire is a well-specified indoor 2 person infrared sauna built from premium Hemlock wood with 8mm tempered glass doors and panels. Its heating system delivers 2,490W across eight heaters: four full-spectrum heaters positioned at the front and rear, and four carbon heaters on the side panels and leg area. This combination produces near-infrared warmth from the front and back alongside the deeper-penetrating far-infrared heat from the carbon side panels.
The Paire measures 1,300mm x 1,050mm x 1,900mm and operates in a recommended temperature range of 37°C to 55°C, with a maximum of 70°C. It includes chromotherapy lighting with remote, LED strip lighting, Bluetooth and AUX audio, an aromatherapy oil container, and two S-shaped ergonomic backrests. The Jaquar Paire comes with a 5-year manufacturer warranty and is delivered as a flat-pack for self-assembly, with a Jaquar technician available remotely or in person to assist.
Insignia Hybrid Infrared and Traditional 2 Person Outdoor Sauna
For those who cannot decide between infrared and traditional, the Insignia Hybrid removes the need to choose. This outdoor 2 person cabin combines a 4.5kW Finnish Harvia electric stove with four low-EMF far-infrared carbon heater panels, meaning you can use either system independently or switch between the two across sessions. The Harvia stove is capable of pushing temperatures well above 80°C and includes 20kg of peridotite stones for generating steam in the traditional Finnish style.
The Insignia Hybrid has been updated with an aluminium-clad exterior and aluminium frame and base, replacing the previous exposed timber outer construction. This removes the need for routine exterior wood treatment and eliminates the requirement to maintain full perimeter access around the sauna for retreatment purposes. The interior is hand-crafted from Canadian Hemlock and measures 1,700mm x 1,500mm x 2,100mm overall. Additional features include LED chromotherapy lighting, Bluetooth speakers, a heavy-duty 8mm tempered glass front panel, and a composite aluminium roof. The electrical supply can be single-phase or three-phase, and all connections must be made by a qualified electrician. The Insignia Hybrid carries a 2-year electrical warranty and a 2-year wood warranty when professionally installed.
Who Are 2 Person Infrared Saunas For?
A 2 person infrared sauna suits a wider variety of users than you might expect. The format works well for two people sharing a regular wellness routine, but it is equally popular with solo users who simply want a more comfortable amount of space than a single-person cabin provides. The key is that infrared heat is accessible regardless of prior sauna experience, making this format a practical first step for a broad range of people.
Couples and shared wellness routines
Couples who want to build regular heat therapy into their routine will find the 2 person format comfortable without the cost or footprint of a larger cabin. Sessions become easier to sustain when shared, and having a fixed installation at home removes the friction of needing to book or travel. For those interested in sauna accessories to round out the experience, Heracles Wellness stocks a range of additions to suit both infrared and traditional cabins.
Those new to sauna bathing
Infrared saunas are particularly well suited to people who find high-temperature traditional saunas difficult to tolerate, including those who are sensitive to heat or who are building up a new habit gradually. The lower ambient temperatures make it easier to extend session duration over time, and the gentler heat means there is less of an adjustment period for first-time users.
Active individuals and recovery
For people who train regularly, infrared sauna sessions are a widely used part of post-exercise recovery. The heat encourages circulation and helps relax tight muscle tissue after physical activity. Models like the Noir add a further recovery-focused dimension through the integrated red light therapy panel, which can be used independently to target specific areas between sessions.
Indoor vs Outdoor: Choosing the Right Location
The choice between an indoor and outdoor 2 person infrared sauna is largely a practical one, and neither option is inherently superior. What matters is matching the model to your available space, electrical setup, and how you intend to use it throughout the year. Both formats are well represented in this collection, and the specifications differ enough to make the decision fairly straightforward once you know your priorities.
Indoor infrared saunas
Indoor models like the Noir and Jaquar Paire are designed for use in dry interior rooms and typically require only a standard plug socket or single-phase connection, making them the simpler installation overall. They suit homes where garden space is limited or where consistent year-round access regardless of weather is a priority. Both models are delivered as flat-packs and can be assembled without professional help.
Outdoor infrared saunas
Outdoor models, including the Insignia Hybrid and the Insignia 2 Person Outdoor Infrared Sauna, are built to withstand exterior conditions and offer a more permanent installation with a traditional cabin aesthetic. They require a solid, level base. While the standard 2-person infrared model features convenient plug-and-play operation, the more powerful Insignia Hybrid model, which incorporates a 4.5kW traditional stove, will require a qualified electrician for installation. Once installed, they become a fixed, luxurious feature of your garden. Browse the full infrared home sauna collection to compare specifications across the complete range, or explore outdoor saunas if you have already decided on an exterior installation.
Ready to Explore the Full Range?
All 2 person infrared saunas on this page are delivered free to the UK Mainland, and the team at Heracles Wellness is available on +44 (0) 330 043 0870 to answer any questions about which model best suits your space and requirements. Visit Heracles Wellness to browse the complete sauna, ice bath, and wellness product range.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an electrician to install a 2 person infrared sauna?
It depends on the model. Indoor plug-and-play saunas like the Noir Infrared Sauna connect directly to a standard UK 13-amp socket and require no specialist electrical work. However, more powerful indoor models like the Jaquar Paire require a dedicated 16-amp single-phase connection, which must be safely installed by a qualified electrician. Outdoor models like the Insignia Hybrid are different: they feature heavy-duty heaters that require an electrician to hardwire them into either a single-phase or three-phase supply depending on your home's setup.
How long does it take for an infrared sauna to heat up?
Infrared saunas heat up considerably faster than traditional saunas because they warm the body directly rather than heating the air first. The Noir, for example, reaches its optimal temperature range in approximately 10 to 15 minutes. You can begin a session while the cabin is still warming up, which is not something that works as well in a conventional high-temperature sauna.
How often should I use a 2 person infrared sauna?
For most people, two to four sessions per week is a good starting point, with each session lasting between 30 and 45 minutes. Those who are new to infrared sauna use should begin with shorter sessions at lower temperatures and increase gradually. Staying well hydrated before, during, and after each session is important regardless of frequency.
Can a 2 person infrared sauna be used by one person?
Yes, and many owners use their 2 person sauna this way. The additional space makes solo sessions more comfortable, allowing more freedom of movement and the option to adjust position during longer sessions. There is no practical drawback to using a 2 person cabin alone, and the running costs are the same regardless of how many people are inside.
What base does an outdoor infrared sauna need?
Outdoor models require a solid, level base that can support the combined weight of the sauna and its maximum number of users. Suitable materials include concrete, patio paving, decking, tiles, and asphalt, provided the surface is flat and sufficiently load-bearing. The Insignia Hybrid, for example, weighs 250kg, so the base should be rated to handle that plus the weight of users. Sloped ground and areas prone to water pooling should be avoided.
Let customers speak for us
Neil Martin
Superb in every way!
They say ‘happy wife, happy life’. Well I can vouch for that, we are both extremely happy with our latest addition to home set-up.
From the beginning the sauna was easy to purchase and get delivered (with in a couple of weeks due to stock levels). I had to hand ball off the lorry as the pallet it comes in was too big for the tail lift but that’s about the most difficult part of the whole process.
Instructions were fairly straightforward though I am a builder so have experience in this sort of thing. But most handy DIYers will find this easy enough to build.
If you plan in the time to paint various woods at different stages of the build it will help. i.e paint interior wall and benches prior to fitting the benches makes its easier to reach those otherwise hard to reach places.
The guys sent a really great link with electrical details needed for your electrician so you can prep ahead of time and get materials in place for their arrival. Think it took my guy about three hours to hook it up.
Quality of the thermo wood is excellent keeps the heat in really well. The Heater is easy to operate and within 20mins it’s ready to jump in. Max heat will in time reach 90+degrees which is too hot for me.
Already have friends and family asking about it.
Camilla Traditional Outdoor Sauna Complete Kit 3-4 Person
Dean Wilde
Amazing product, exceptional service
The quality of the black cube sauna really is top notch, from the roof shingles to the heater every component is quality.
Delivery was perfect, on time and professional. The driver contacted me on route with an ETA and went out of his way to help me get the large pallet into my garage.
I chose to build the sauna myself which was relatively straightforward and quite enjoyable. The construction guide was comprehensive and easy to follow.
We use our new sausa almost every day and couldn't be happier.
Would certainly recommend Heracles and the black cube to anyone considering an outdoor sauna.
Leil® Black Cube Classic 4 Person Outdoor Sauna Kit
Jemma
Fabulous Sauna
We are delighted with our sauna. Ordering was easy and we opted for the install option too. Make sure you use electricians willing to ask for advice from the Heracles team if needed as that supports a smooth installation. Really happy that we chose Heracles. You don’t need to spend a fortune to get a quality product that does the job beautifully.
Camilla Traditional Outdoor Sauna Complete Kit 3-4 Person
CSB
Superb!
We have now had our Leil 5 Person Sauna with Changing Room running for a few weeks - and absolutely love it. If you want very good quality and excellent service, then absolutely use Heracles. Friendly, efficient & helpful advice all the way through the process. And they ARE right about using one of their recommended electricians unless yours has done saunas before!! We used the install service - which was also perfect - and all the recommended oils (which by the way is not a quick job!). Even had some left over wood which we have used to make the outdoor shower. HUUM heater; good tip from installers - wash stones before put in basket as they have black 'dust'. And HUUM have just released a new app thank goodness as old one rubbish. Thank you Keith and team; very happy customers.
Leil® Patio M 5 Person Outdoor Sauna with Changing Room
Robin
Our sauna cabin sanctuary: quality & contentment!
For years I have enjoyed the health benefits of a regular sauna - choosing to install a glazed steam shower in our urban apartment more than a decade ago.
Frequent and extensive travels into Finland, exploring the Arctic north, confirmed our dedication to therapeutic steam (and ice plunges)!
Having relocated to a rural setting, it was time - at last - for a sauna cabin in the garden.
Thorough research confirmed the quality of the Leil range and the perfect option, for us, of the "round cube double" - an elegant, robust, thermowood construction with ample space as you enter through the separate changing room onwards into the beautifully benched and glazed interior.
The Leil "round cube double" is offered with a range of upgrades, sauna heaters and lights. We chose to keep it simple: just the glazed cabin, to suit our rural setting. However, we did opt for the larger 2.6m size, so that the benches are sufficient for those over 6' to enjoy a full horizontal stretch!
From start to finish, the Heracles Wellness team offered reliable expert advice and communication, as well as very helpful liaison during the delivery and construction phase. I wanted a quality product, but I also needed quality customer care for a complex delivery and technical installation.
The installation - organised by Heracles Wellness - was completed to schedule with real attention to detail: the team of carpenters had extensive experience with sauna construction, including the Leil range.
It was very clear what was included 'in the price' and what we needed to complete ourselves after installation: the electrical connection, interior wall and bench treatments must be completed before first use.
As we await those final stages - and the first sauna in the new cabin - the Leil "round cube double" has already become an exceptional sauna cabin sanctuary: quality and contentment!
Leil® Round Cube Double Outdoor Sauna with Changing Room 5-6 Person
Vin
Amazing service from a wonderful team, awesome product
Couldn't be happier with our experience with the entire Heracles Wellness team, specially Abdullah and Keith. They were available to answer any queries and give advice all along the way, and their installers did a fabulous job too. The product itself is amazing, and we have been really enjoying it. Highly recommended!
Camilla Traditional Outdoor Sauna Complete Kit 3-4 Person
George Gray
Exceptional service and awesome sauna
From initial inquiry to delivery everything was taken care of, late evening what’s app to solve a problem our end with electrics. I can highly recommend
Leil® Black Cube Classic 4 Person Outdoor Sauna Kit
Julie K.
We are thrilled with our sauna
We couldn’t be more pleased with our Camilla Traditional sauna kit. From start to finish Keith & Abdullah have been so helpful. The sauna has exceeded our expectations. The wood is beautiful quality. The Harvia heater heats the sauna really quickly. The installation was hassle free - we paid the additional fee for installation & Heracles arranged this for us. Communication has been excellent throughout. We shopped around before choosing Heracles. Heracles were cheaper than any of the other companies that we looked at & we consider the Camilla kit to be great value for such a high quality product. We are completely satisfied.
Camilla Traditional Outdoor Sauna Complete Kit 3-4 Person
Aditi
Amazing sauna accompanied by a brilliant service
I had done a lot of research before purchasing that sauna, looking for one that offer the right health benefits by having the right wood a sauna should have to conserve heat along with the best heater (Harvia) whilst still being value for money. The reviews gave me confidence after knowing the specifications aligned with what I wanted and I couldn’t be happier with having made the purchase. The service was brilliant, all my questions answered imminently , Abdullah was very patient and accommodating especially when getting the sauna installed and the electrics arranged by our own electrician. We paid extra for the sauna to be built and treated and the team were so professional and hard working doing an excellent job. Worth the money spent once again and would definitely recommend !
Camilla Traditional Outdoor Sauna Complete Kit 3-4 Person
Tom Firmin
Amazing bit of kit alongside great customer service
Really pleased with the build quality of my Camilla sauna unit, it looks great particularly after applying necessary external and internal oil. Keith and team customer service and communication could not have been better, and Keith helped explain I could put heater on the left hand side of the sauna (as I enter) to help the electrician wire up to adjacent shed unit. Highly recommend.
Camilla Traditional Outdoor Sauna 3-4 Person
Fred Blunden
So happy with my sauna!
After researching several different companies selling saunas, I was very happy to come across Heracles Wellness. I phoned them to ask some questions and they were very helpful in answering all my queries. I then decided to purchase the Insignia Hybrid Sauna.
A delivery date was set and the sauna was delivered as arranged with no problems.
With the help of a friend, we built the sauna and our electrician connected all the electrics up.
I have used the sauna a few times since it’s been up and running and I am very pleased with it as I have Parkinson’s and Rheumatoid Arthritis so hoping it helps alleviate pain and aching.
I would thoroughly recommend the company if you are looking for an excellent quality product and very good customer service.
Insignia Hybrid Infrared and Traditional 2 Person Outdoor Sauna
Charlie Mitchell
Fantastic sauna backed up by second to none customer service
We couldn't be more happy with this purchase! Recommended by another happy customer we know, customer service has been great from start to finish. Easy to contact someone and arrange delivery as well as a couple of questions during installation and optimising how we use it. The quality of the product is also great and gives a great sauna experience.
Camilla Traditional Outdoor Sauna Complete Kit 3-4 Person
John Ellmore
Fantastic service and experience
We are very happy with the product and the experience with Heracles. Good communication throughout the process, was delivered quickly and installed within one day without issue. We had a slight snag with our lighting set up, Keith was on hand to support our electrician over the phone and we got sorted. Thanks!!
Leil® Round Cube Single Outdoor Sauna 6-8 Person
Louise
My Luxurious Garden Escape!
I couldn’t be happier with my barrel outdoor sauna—it has completely transformed both my garden and my evening routine.
The craftsmanship is outstanding, with beautifully finished wood, a solid structure and an aesthetically pleasing design that makes the sauna look visually striking whilst having a practical layout too.
The curved barrel shape adds real character to my garden. It’s not just a sauna; it’s a true focal point that has elevated my entire outdoor space. It heats up quickly (in around 45 minutes) distributing warmth evenly inside.
In practical terms, my barrel sauna has proven to be a fantastic investment. Running costs have been very reasonable, working out at approximately £3 per session. Beyond that, the benefits to relaxation, wellbeing, and overall lifestyle have been outstanding. For example an unsightly cold sore completely disappeared after just two sauna sessions which otherwise would have taken a few weeks to heal.
A special thanks goes to Abdullan Yaqoob for his exceptional support from start to finish—nothing was ever too much trouble. He patiently answered all my many questions and even arranged for me to visit a previously installed sauna, which was incredibly helpful in making my decision.
Finally, I’d like to thank the installation team, who worked tirelessly—even in the snow—to have the sauna fully assembled in just seven hours. Their dedication and professionalism were truly impressive.
This sauna has genuinely elevated my home and wellbeing, and I'm delighted to recommend Hercales.
Heracles Wellness
John
My Beautiful Sauna
10/10 on the value for your money
10 /10 for Style & looks
10 /10 for the layout design and available space inside
10 /10 for the quality of the selected timber inside and out
10/10 for the sleek glass heating controller
10/10 on the modern drop heater and the heating up time (very fast)
10/10 for the installation team (ultimate pros) you wont believe how dedicated they are
10/10 for treating my property with respect
10/10 for Keith's and the teams customer service
Would I use this company again you guessed it 10/10
Adding up to a100% satisfying experience
Well done Keith and the team credit were credit is due
Leil® Black Cube Comfort 6-8 Person Outdoor Sauna
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Specializes in premium wellness products including saunas and hot tubs. Customers consistently praise exceptional service from Keith, Abdullah, and team throughout purchasing, delivery, and installation. Professional installation teams deliver efficient, high-...
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