Barrel Saunas vs. Cabin Saunas: Which Outdoor Sauna Is Best for You? Bringing wellness outdoors has never been more popular. Whether it’s a backyard retreat, a dedicated spa corner, or...
Bringing wellness outdoors has never been more popular. Whether it’s a backyard retreat, a dedicated spa corner, or a luxury patio setup, outdoor saunas are becoming a centerpiece of relaxation and recovery. But when it comes to choosing the right sauna for your space, one big question often comes up: Should you choose a barrel sauna or a cabin sauna?
Both designs have unique benefits, styles, and installation considerations. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between barrel saunas and cabin saunas, so you can confidently decide which option fits your home, lifestyle, and wellness goals.
A barrel sauna is a cylindrical sauna. It's usual built from interlocking cedar or spruce planks, its rounded design provides both charm and efficiency.
Walls with a curved that help air flow and heat distribution.
Typically available as purchase barrel sauna kits, making them easy to assemble.
Compact footprint, perfect for smaller yards or patios.
Rustic, Scandinavian-inspired look that blends naturally into outdoor settings.
Barrel saunas are highly popular among homeowners who want a quick-heating, visually striking outdoor sauna.
A cabin sauna looks like a house. It has 4 straight walls, and a strong roof. These saunas resemble a mini cabin and offer a classic outdoor spa experience.
Rectangular design with more usable interior space.
Often larger, making them ideal for families or groups.
Can be customized with extras like order sauna chromotherapy lights or a buy sauna sound system.
Perfect for homeowners who want a true “outdoor spa cabin” feel.
Cabin saunas offer more versatility in size and layout, making them ideal for backyard installations where space allows.
One of the most important considerations when comparing saunas is how quickly and evenly they heat up.
Barrel Sauna: The curved walls create a natural convection system, circulating hot air evenly and quickly. This means less time waiting and more time relaxing.
Cabin Sauna: Takes slightly longer to heat due to larger volume and straight walls. However, once heated, it retains warmth exceptionally well, especially when paired with insulation.
If you value fast heat-up times, a barrel sauna wins. If you prefer longer, sustained sessions, a cabin sauna may be better.
Barrel Sauna: Best for 2–6 people. The curved design limits vertical space but makes the sauna feel cozy and intimate.
Cabin Sauna: Can be built to host 4–12 people, depending on the model. Its rectangular design maximizes interior space for benches, accessories, and even buy electric sauna heaters.
For small backyards or patios, barrel saunas are a smart choice. For social gatherings, cabin saunas provide more flexibility.
Barrel Sauna Kits: Often sold as DIY purchase barrel sauna kits, which can be assembled in a weekend with basic tools. They are relatively lightweight, making them easy to position in different outdoor spaces.
Cabin Saunas: Require more construction effort. While you can purchase outdoor sauna cabins as kits, installation often involves professional assembly or order backyard sauna installation services.
If you enjoy DIY projects, go for a barrel sauna. If you want a larger, more permanent structure, a cabin sauna is worth the investment.
Both barrel and cabin saunas are usually made from cedar, spruce, or other durable woods. However, their shapes influence maintenance needs.
Barrel Sauna: The rounded shape allows rain, snow, and debris to slide off naturally, reducing maintenance.
Cabin Sauna: Flat roofs may require more care, especially in snowy climates, but cabins often have sturdier construction with better insulation.
If you live in a region with heavy snow, a pitched-roof cabin sauna is a safer choice. For moderate climates, a barrel sauna is low-maintenance and weather-friendly.
This is often a personal decision.
Barrel Sauna: Rustic, eye-catching, and Scandinavian in design. It feels natural in gardens, patios, or forested yards.
Cabin Sauna: Traditional and rustic, offering a calm ambiance, just like in a spa. Its house-like look blends seamlessly with homes and decks.
Both add serious curb appeal, but the choice depends on whether you want a rustic barrel look or a classic cabin spa vibe.
Barrel Sauna: Generally more affordable, especially when buying a buy patio sauna kit or purchase barrel sauna kit. Smaller models make them a cost-effective entry into outdoor sauna ownership.
Cabin Sauna: Larger, more complex, and often more expensive. They’re an investment for homeowners looking to build a luxury home sauna for sale experience.
Your budget and goals will determine the right fit.
Both barrel and cabin saunas can be upgraded with modern features, such as:
Order sauna chromotherapy lights for mood and relaxation.
Buy sauna sound systems for music or guided meditations.
Buy electric sauna heaters for efficient heating.
Purchase 2-person infrared sauna add-ons if you want hybrid setups.
At Elite Sauna Direct, you’ll find a wide selection of outdoor sauna kits, including both barrel saunas and cabin saunas, along with accessories to customize your setup. Whether you’re planning a cozy barrel sauna or a full outdoor sauna cabin installation, their products make it easy to bring the spa experience home.
Choose a barrel sauna if you want:
Fast heating efficiency.
Easy DIY installation.
A rustic, eye-catching design.
A budget-friendly option.
Choose a cabin sauna if you want:
Spacious interiors for groups.
A more permanent, insulated structure.
Customization options with luxury add-ons.
A traditional “outdoor spa cabin” look.
Barrel saunas and cabin saunas are similar in that they both offer similar health benefits. The best choice depends almost entirely on your space, budget, and style preferences. For small patios or those who want easy DIY installation, a purchase barrel sauna kit is ideal. For homeowners who dream of a larger, spa-like retreat, a purchase outdoor sauna cabin is the way to go.
Explore both options at Elite Sauna Direct, where you can find barrel sauna kits, outdoor sauna cabins, and cedar sauna designs that elevate any backyard into a luxury retreat.
Your cart is currently empty.
Start Shopping
