After crushing a kettlebell HIIT workout or powering my way through a lengthy cardio session, I love winding down in the sauna for some stress relief and detoxification. While there’s nothing wrong with taking advantage of your commercial gym’s facilities, you can experience the health benefits of sauna therapy without leaving your home.
If you’re looking to upgrade your recovery routine while remaining true to your budget-conscious roots, you should consider a portable, affordable option that earned a spot on our best home sauna list. In this SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro review, I’ll dive into the dimensions, features, performance, and more so you know exactly what to expect from this well-priced wet sauna.
If you’re ready to break a serious sweat (and not sweat the cost), sit back, relax, and read on to learn more about our team’s experience with the SmartSteam Pro.
Our SaunaBox Smartsteam Pro Review, Summarized
The SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro is an affordable muscle recovery tool that features a space-efficient footprint, powerful heating unit, and simple setup process. The pop-up design allows you to easily break it down after you’re done breaking a sweat, making it a great option if you’re short on space or want a portable home sauna you can store between sessions. It provides tremendous value based on its rock-solid build quality and budget-friendly price point of $349.
How We Test Saunas
How efficiently does the sauna’s heater work? Do you have to wait a long time for it to reach your desired temperature? For a sauna to earn at least a 3 out of 5, it must reach its highest setting in about 35 minutes.
How much space does the sauna take up? Is it a portable sauna like the SmartSteam Pro, or does it require a permanent placement within your home or backyard? To earn a 3 out of 5, a sauna must comfortably fit the listed user capacity without taking up too much space.
Considering some saunas can cost well over $10,000, we want you to feel confident that you’re getting a good return on your investment. To earn at least a 3-out-of-5 rating, the price must justify the build quality and performance compared to competitors.
We developed a comprehensive sauna testing methodology that examines everything from its construction and durability to its footprint and extra features. Our expert product testers sit through multiple recovery sessions to provide accurate ratings based on a 1-5 scoring scale.
The Garage Gym Reviews team includes certified personal trainers, Olympic-level athletes, and strength training enthusiasts who utilize muscle recovery tools like cold plunges and saunas to stay on top of our game. We’ve tested 30 saunas (and counting), including premium models like the Plunge Sauna and affordable options like the SmartSteam Pro.
The SaunaBox SmartSteam Kit Pro offers an easy and affordable wet sauna option for home recovery sessions. It’s compact, folds down effortlessly, and is suitable for one person at a time. The heat is sourced from the SmartSteam Unit, which pumps steam into the SaunaBox and can be set to seven different settings.
What our tester says:
“It should take you less than 10 minutes and about 10 minutes to disassemble and clean it thoroughly.”
What to Know Before You Buy
- While the SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro has an MSRP of $349, we’ve seen it marked down as low as $320, or roughly the same cost as some of the best Olympic barbells. It’s also HSA/FSA-eligible, meaning you can use pre-tax dollars to fund this purchase.
- If you have room in your budget, you can opt for the SmartSteam Pro with Red Light Therapy for $499. This package includes a 660- to 850-nanometer medical-grade red light therapy wand that easily attaches to the frame via included clips. Check out our deep dive on red light therapy benefits to learn why this might be a worthwhile upgrade.
- You can use this single-person sauna both indoors and outdoors. However, SaunaBox recommends covering it with a canopy, balcony, or tarp if you leave it outdoors since it is not weatherproof. If you use it outdoors, be sure to check your warranty coverage to avoid any issues regarding outdoor storage, as well.
- SaunaBox covers this sauna with a one-year warranty. Although we’d like to see more extensive coverage, this is fair given the budget-friendly price point. Keep in mind, too, that you can only return the SmartSteam Pro if it’s unused and in its original packaging.
SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro Video Review
Is the SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro Worth It?
At its sub-$400 price point, the SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro isn’t trying to compete with more robust models that cost 10 times that amount (or more). Instead, this portable steam sauna can provide excellent value for budget-conscious buyers who may not be ready to pull the trigger on a more expensive option but still want to enjoy the benefits of heat therapy1. What you get is essentially a personal steam room that reaches peak temperatures quickly thanks to the included heating unit.
That said, there are trade-offs to consider. First, the SmartSteam Pro only fits one person—if you need room for a partner or multiple people, this is not the right fit. In addition, the humid environment created by the steamer means you have to be extra diligent about drying, cleaning, and managing built-up condensation. Otherwise, you’re inviting bacteria and mold to fester inside the unit.
RELATED: Sauna Maintenance Tips
If the SmartSteam Pro is too small for your liking, you could also look at the SaunaBox SmartSteam XL (formerly known as the SaunaBox Go). This two-person model works in a similar fashion and is compatible with the SaunaBox mobile app on both iOS and Android platforms. If you’re not a fan of steam-based heaters, you could opt for the SaunaBox Pulse PRO—an infrared sauna with integrated red light therapy.
Still deciding if this is the right option for your recovery needs? Read on to find out some key specs and metrics for the SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro.
SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro: Key Features & Specs
| Price (Original MSRP) | $349 |
| Dimensions | 35” W x 35” D x 74” H |
| Temperature Range | Up to 140º F |
| Heat Levels | 1-7 |
| Time Settings | 0-60 minutes |
| Capacity | 1 person |
| Voltage | 110V |
| Extras | SweatLock floor mat, carrying case, microfiber towel, portable chair |
| Warranty | 1-year warranty |
Using the SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro
Former GGR Everything Lead Reviewer Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, took on testing duties for the SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro. Intimately familiar with all types of saunas, she was highly impressed by the build quality, quick setup, and performance of this one-person steam sauna.
Let’s peel back the curtain (or unzip the tent, in this case) and see what you can expect from the SmartSteam Pro.
Part of my nightly ritual is to go to the sauna in my apartment complex to reset mentally, emotionally, and physically. But if I didn’t have one so readily available, I’d have no hesitation about investing in a portable option like the SmartSteam Pro, especially since it’s so much more affordable than a traditional sauna. Anyone who prioritizes their performance and overall well-being should put just as much effort into their recovery, and this is a great option that will help you break a sweat without costing an arm and a leg.
GGR Senior Staff Writer Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro Rating
Footprint
While traditional saunas command quite a bit of real estate, portable models like the SmartSteam Pro are designed to be space-efficient. When fully assembled, the SmartSteam Pro measures 74 inches high, 35 inches deep, and 35 inches wide. You shouldn’t have any trouble fitting it in your garage, patio, or even inside your apartment.
“It’s a one-person sauna, but the fact it can fit into, essentially, a small carrying bag is a huge plus,” Lindsay says. “I also really enjoy that the lightweight frame can be assembled anywhere.”
We rate the footprint at a rock-solid 4 out of 5 and particularly appreciate the portability-oriented design.
Delivery and Setup
The SmartSteam Pro scored a perfect 5 out of 5 for delivery and setup, and it’s easy to see why.
“It should take you less than 10 minutes to set up, and then again about 10 minutes to disassemble after you’ve made sure you’ve cleaned it thoroughly,” Lindsay says.
SaunaBox likens the setup to putting up a small camping tent. Based on our experience, we’d agree that it’s quite similar. The SmartSteam Pro also comes with a portable carrying case, making it easy to bring this sauna on a trip.
Construction and Durability
Earning a 4-out-of-5 rating for construction and durability, the SmartSteam Pro checks many of the boxes we like to see from a safety standpoint. First, it’s certified by Simple Lab for no micro-plastics, which is especially important when you’re dealing with high temperatures. The heat-insulated ThermoShield tent is also constructed with non-toxic, durable materials including polyester and a cotton blend. The tent does a great job of keeping the heat and humidity trapped.
“If you’re using it and getting overly dizzy or overly hot, there’s a Velcro window for ventilation, as well as the zippered door that you can go ahead and open for more airflow,” Lindsay says.
The steaming unit carries 3.6 liters of water and features a stainless steel steam chamber with all BPA-free components. Meanwhile, the rust-proof fiberglass frame is surprisingly sturdy for a portable sauna.
The SmartSteam Pro also comes with an absorbent floor mat—a huge plus since you’re bound to sweat quite a bit. Overall, we appreciate that SaunaBox built this unit with safety in mind from both a materials and design standpoint.
One important note, though, is that the tent is not machine-washable. Instead, SaunaBox recommends airing out the unit and wiping it down with a microfiber cloth to prevent any bacteria, mildew, or mold build-up after every session.
RELATED: How to Clean Saunas
Heat Performance
Earning a strong 4-out-of-5 rating for heat performance, the SmartSteam Pro has a listed max temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. While that may not seem like much compared to other saunas, it’s not necessarily a bad thing.
“You are experiencing almost 100% humidity with this sauna, which just elevates the field temperature so much more,” Lindsay explains.
The SmartSteam Unit has seven heat levels and a timer that can be set from zero to 60 minutes using a handheld controller. Simply pour distilled water into the SmartSteam chamber and wait about 15 minutes for steam to flow into the tent. Because of the high humidity, it wouldn’t be wise to do a 60-minute session. Instead, follow the advice of GGR chief medical advisor Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM.
“Keep sauna sessions between 15 and 20 minutes and pay attention to how you’re feeling,” he explains. “Stay hydrated before, during, and after, and avoid going in on an empty stomach or right after intense exercise. If you start to feel dizzy or overheated, step out and cool down—it’s not worth pushing it.”
Features and Extras
Given its budget-friendly price tag, you probably wouldn’t expect the SmartSteam Pro to include many notable features or extras. Fortunately, SaunaBox provides great value by including everything you need to enjoy a comfortable, effective home sauna experience. In addition to the insulated pop-up tent, you get:
- SmartSteam heating unit
- Foldable chair
- Microfiber towel
- Washable SweatLock floor mat
On top of that, SaunaBox adds a few extras that make the SmartSteam Pro even more appealing.
“I like that it comes with a portable carrying case,” Lindsay says. “I’m not sure how often I’d personally move it from place to place, but it’s nice that the entire sauna breaks down small enough to fit into a bag.
As mentioned earlier, the company also offers a few add-ons to round out your setup, including eucalyptus essential oil ($60) and a dual-purpose fan ($49.99). Overall, we rate the features and extras at a near-perfect 4.5 out of 5.
Value
Based on our research and testing, the average portable sauna costs $1,107. For comparison, the average traditional sauna costs nearly $8,300. At just $349, the SmartSteam Pro is significantly more affordable, giving you the flexibility to invest some of those savings in additional recovery tools like a massage gun or home gym upgrades like a new set of weight plates.
“This is a steal given its packability and heat performance,” Lindsay says.
Considering the SmartSteam Pro costs roughly a third of the price of the average portable sauna, we rate the value at a perfect 5 out of 5. We also appreciate that SaunaBox provides free shipping and multiple payment options to fund your purchase.
Customer Experience
When Lindsay first reviewed this unit, it came with a two-year warranty. However, it’s a bit disappointing that SaunaBox only provides one year of coverage these days. It’s also worth noting that you can only return the SmartSteam Pro if it’s unused and in its original packaging.
Several reviews on the company website call out difficulties dealing with customer service, as well. In fact, that was a point Lindsay raised in her own review.
“Make sure going into your purchase that you know that if there are any issues that arrive, you might be forced to deal with the less-than-ideal customer service,” she says.
If you need to contact SaunaBox, there is a chat feature on the website, as well as a form to submit an inquiry. Overall, though, this doesn’t seem like the most helpful company in terms of customer service availability.
Customer Reviews
The SmartSteam Pro has earned an average rating of 4.5 stars based on more than 1,800 reviews on the SaunaBox website. That’s a tick lower than the average sauna, but not significantly so.
Customers routinely praise the reliable heat performance, build quality, and easy setup. Here’s some direct feedback from folks who’ve made the SmartSteam Pro part of their health and wellness routine:
SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro Vs
If you’re on the hunt for a portable sauna solution, the SmartSteam Pro and SweatTent are two high-quality options. However, they take very different approaches. On one hand, the SmartSteam Pro is a steam-based tent system powered by a steamer unit. Meanwhile, the SweatTent is a wood-fueled, insulated tent that offers much higher dry/steam temperatures.
From a convenience standpoint, the SmartSteam Pro is lighter, easier to set up, and more suited to indoor or controlled environments. Meanwhile, the SweatTent offers a more “authentic” sauna experience by reaching up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit, which is what you’ll see from most traditional saunas. It’s made from high-quality, heat-resistant Oxford 210D nylon—a material used for backpack liners, sleeping bags, and umbrellas. However, the SweatTent is not rated for indoor use given its wood-fired heat source.
“It’s super sturdy and it comes with a fiberglass roof cover to protect against rain and direct sunlight,” GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele says about the SweatTent.
RELATED: SweatTent Review
If the SmartSteam or SweatTent aren’t ideal fits, the Smartmak Far Infrared Sauna is another option worth considering. Available for less than $200 on Amazon, it only takes about 20 minutes to reach its max temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
|  |  | |
| SaunaBox SmartSteam | Sweat Tent Outdoor Sauna | Smartmak Sauna | |
Rating | |||
| Footprint | 35” L x 35” W x 74.4” H | 6’ L x 6’ W x 7’ H | 32″ L x 28″ W x 38″ H |
| Max Temp. | 130 F | Up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit in 30 minutes | 140 F |
| Capacity | 1 person | 3-person capacity | 1 person |
| Power Req. | 110V | Wood-fired sauna stove | 110V |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year | Lifetime |
Final Verdict of Our SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro Review
The SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro can be the ideal solution for solo sauna sessions at home. It’s easy to set up, easy to use, and easy to pack up and take on the go. It’s also well-priced, well-built, and well-designed for those who prefer a high-humidity environment. If you’re ready to step up your recovery game, but aren’t quite ready to go all-in on a more expensive traditional sauna, this can be a great place to start.
Overall, we think the SmartSteam Pro is a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy an at-home sauna experience without breaking the bank.
- With a max temperature of 140º F and near-100% humidity, the SmartSteam Pro provides an effective recovery experience. However, it doesn’t offer as robust a heat range as a traditional dry sauna, so max heat seekers should look elsewhere.
- The lightweight pop-up tent design takes less than 10 minutes to assemble, making it well-suited for people who want a sauna they can pack away between sessions.
- Serious recovery enthusiasts who can afford to splurge could consider upgrading to the Pro With Red Light Therapy for even more benefits. You may be able to find it on sale for as low as $449, which we consider excellent value.
RELATED: Best Red Light Therapy Devices
SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro Review: FAQs
What are the pros and cons of the SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro?
The SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro delivers steam heat in a compact, portable design that’s made with non-toxic materials and is easy to set up. However, it only fits one person comfortably, requires regular cleaning due to high humidity, and doesn’t reach the higher temperatures of traditional dry saunas.
Is the entire sauna tent machine-washable?
While the SweatLock floor mat is machine-washable, the tent itself is not. SaunaBox provides a microfiber towel to wipe down the walls after use, though.
How long does the SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro take to heat up?
The SaunaBox SmartSteam Pro should reach its target steam temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit in about 15 to 20 minutes after you get it running, according to our test results.
References
- Laukkanen, J. A., & Kunutsor, S. K. (2024). The multifaceted benefits of passive heat therapies for extending the healthspan: A comprehensive review with a focus on Finnish sauna. Temperature (Austin, Tex.), 11(1), 27–51. https://doi.org/10.1080/23328940.2023.2300623
