If you're shopping for an outdoor sauna, the first big choice is shape. Barrel saunas and cabin saunas both work well in a backyard, but they differ in space, headroom, looks, and delivery. Here's a straightforward comparison to help you decide.
What is a barrel sauna?
A barrel sauna is built from long wooden staves shaped into a cylinder, like a barrel on its side, held together with metal bands and set on wooden cradles. Many models add a small covered porch at the front and a window or panoramic glass at the back.
What is a cabin sauna?
A cabin sauna looks like a small shed or cottage, with flat walls, a pitched roof, and square corners. Cabins often have larger front windows, more headroom, and optional add-ons like a porch or a separate changeroom.
Side-by-side comparison
Interior space
The barrel's curved walls mean there's less wasted air space above your head, so the interior volume is compact for the number of seats. Cabins have straight walls and a flat ceiling, which gives you more headroom and room to move, especially for taller users.
Heating
Both styles can use electric or wood-burning heaters. Heater size is matched to the interior volume, so always check the recommended heater for the model you choose. Electric heaters need a licensed electrician; wood heaters need a chimney and safe clearances.
Look and footprint
Barrels have a distinctive, traditional look and a compact footprint that suits a patio or deck. Cabins blend in more like a garden building and suit larger yards, especially models with a changeroom that gives you a place to change and cool down.
Capacity
Both styles come in a range of sizes. Common outdoor models seat anywhere from 2 to 6 people. Size your sauna by how many people will use it at the same time.
Delivery and setup
Both typically ship as ready-to-assemble kits by freight truck. Longer barrels and larger cabins can arrive in crates 10 to 12 feet long, which are too long for a truck's liftgate and need a forklift, a trailer pickup at the freight terminal, or a crew to unload. Always check the crate size and weight on the product page before you order.
Base
Barrels rest on cradles; cabins sit on a floor frame. Either way, you'll need a solid, level base such as a concrete pad, pavers, or a deck rated for the weight.
Which should you choose?
- Choose a barrel sauna if you want the classic look, a compact footprint, and a traditional sauna experience.
- Choose a cabin sauna if you want more headroom, bigger windows, or a built-in changeroom.
Still deciding? Browse our barrel saunas and outdoor saunas, read our Buyer's Guide, or chat with us. Every order includes our free Ready-to-Relax Home Spa Package, including a sizing call to help you choose the right fit. Call 855-908-0662 anytime during business hours.