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I Tested Sunlighten mPulse for 3 Months: Surprising Results (2025)

Family enjoying a Sunlighten mPulse sauna session with a woman and two children sitting on wooden benches, smiling and relaxing together in a cedar-lined infrared sauna with gym equipment visible through glass doors.

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After testing dozens of saunas over the past 10 years, both as a wellness enthusiast and as the founder of HomeInDepth.com, I’ve developed a keen eye for separating marketing fluff from genuine innovation. So when Sunlighten claimed their mPulse was the only true full-spectrum infrared sauna—with customizable wavelengths—I was curious but skeptical.

I bought the Sunlighten mPulse Believe 2-person model and used it for 3 months. I wanted to know: does it truly deliver better health benefits than more affordable options? Is the technology actually superior? And most importantly, will it make a meaningful difference for someone investing in home wellness? What I found surprised me—in both good and not-so-good ways.

In this honest review, I’ll share what really stood out, how it stacks up against other top saunas, and whether it’s worth the premium price.

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new health regimen, including the use of saunas.

Sunlighten mPulse Series: What Makes It Special?

The mPulse is Sunlighten’s flagship product line, featuring what they claim is the only true full-spectrum infrared sauna with dedicated heaters for each wavelength.

What sets the mPulse apart from standard infrared saunas is its advanced technology platform:

  • SoloCarbon® Heating Technology: These patented heaters deliver 99% infrared emissivity (the highest in the industry), meaning more of the energy converts to usable infrared light rather than wasted heat.
  • True Full-Spectrum Coverage: Unlike competitors that claim “full-spectrum” but really offer mostly far infrared with minimal mid and near, the mPulse features dedicated heaters for each wavelength that can be independently controlled.
  • Red Light Therapy Integration: Built-in LED panels provide additional therapeutic benefits beyond what traditional infrared offers alone.
  • Smart Control System: The Android-powered tablet control center lets you customize sessions based on your health goals, from detoxification to pain relief to improved sleep.

Due to its exceptional technology and superior performance, I’ve rated the mPulse as the Best Smart Sauna in my best home sauna & best indoor sauna guides.

The mPulse comes in five sizes to accommodate different needs and spaces:

  • mPulse Aspire (1-person): Perfect for solo users with limited space
  • mPulse Believe (2-person): Ideal balance of space and functionality for individuals or couples
  • mPulse Conquer (3-person): Spacious enough for families or yoga practice
  • mPulse Discover (4-person): Designed for larger families or social sauna use
  • mPulse Empower (5-person): The largest option for maximum space and commercial applications

All models feature premium wood options, including hypoallergenic basswood (lightest color), eucalyptus (darker, more durable), or eucalyptus exterior with Western Red Cedar interior for that classic sauna aroma.
👉 Jump straight to the Comparison table of all the mPulse models

Detailed Specifications of the mPulse Believe

SpecificationDetails
Exterior Dimensions51.7″ W × 47.6″ D × 79.0″ H
Interior Dimensions47.7″ W × 43.6″ D × 73.0″ H
Weight315 kg (approximately 695 lbs)
Bench Size45.9″ W × 18.5″ D
Recommended Clearance4″ on sides, 6″ in back, 12″ above
Electrical Requirements240V/10A, dedicated 20A circuit with NEMA 6-20R receptacle
Power Consumption2400W maximum
Heater Configuration6 Far Infrared panels (sides, floor, front)
4 Mid Infrared panels (back wall, under bench)
2 Near Infrared/Red Light combo panels
Maximum Temperature140°F (60°C)
Heat-up Time30-45 minutes to reach the target temperature
Control System10.1″ Android tablet with touchscreen + mobile app
EntertainmentBluetooth audio system, tablet streaming capabilities
Special FeaturesChromotherapy lighting (8 colors)
Customizable programs
Remote preheating via app
Low EMF technology
Warranty7-year limited warranty (lifetime on wood structure, prorated after 7 years)
Comparison of Sunlighten mPulse Believe infrared saunas in two wood options - rich eucalyptus wood (left) and light basswood (right), both featuring identical layouts with digital control panels.

Setup and Installation Experience

Getting the mPulse Believe into my testing space was my first hands-on experience with Sunlighten’s attention to detail.

Delivery and Packaging

The sauna arrived on a well-secured pallet with components systematically packed for easy unpacking. Everything was double-wrapped to prevent damage, and not a single scratch was visible on any wood panel.

Assembly Process

The Magne-Seal assembly system is genuinely clever. The panels connect with powerful magnets that pull them together and lock them in place—no tools required. My assistant and I completed the assembly in just under 2 hours, following the mostly clear instructions.

One caveat: you’ll need a dedicated 240V/20A circuit, which may require an electrician if your home doesn’t already have the appropriate outlet. This is something buyers should factor into their budget.

Initial Setup

Once assembled and plugged in, the tablet guided me through connecting to WiFi and downloading the latest software updates. The process was straightforward, though the initial setup took around 30 minutes before my first sauna session.

Performance Testing Methodology

To properly evaluate the mPulse Believe, I developed a systematic testing protocol that went beyond subjective impressions. Here’s how I tested the sauna’s performance:

Temperature Mapping: Using digital thermometers placed at key locations (bench level, floor level, and head height), I tracked temperature distribution throughout multiple sessions to assess heat consistency.

Heat-up Testing: I conducted multiple timed tests from cold start to target temperatures under various conditions to determine realistic heat-up times.

EMF Measurement: Using a TriField TF2 meter, I measured electromagnetic field levels at important positions within the sauna, particularly at seated height and near heater panels.

Energy Consumption: A power meter connected to the sauna helped track electricity usage across different settings and session lengths, allowing me to calculate the actual cost per session.

Wavelength Effectiveness: To evaluate the different infrared wavelengths, I systematically tested various settings and documented the physical effects and experiences.

Long-term Assessment: Over 3 months of regular use, I documented performance, appearance changes, and functionality to evaluate reliability over time.

Performance Results and Experience

After rigorous testing according to the methodology above, here are the detailed performance results for the mPulse Believe:

Temperature Performance:

  • Heat-up Time:
    • The mPulse consistently reached 130°F in 37 minutes (±3 minutes) from a 70°F starting temperature. This is middle-of-the-pack compared to competitors—faster than budget models but slightly slower than some premium competitors.
  • Temperature Stability:
    • Once at the target temperature, the sauna maintained a steady temperature with only ±2°F fluctuation, which is excellent.
  • Maximum Temperature:
    • In extended testing, the sauna reached a maximum of 142°F after 65 minutes at the highest settings.
  • Heat Distribution:
    • Temperature variance between the hottest and coolest spots was only 4-6°F, creating an impressively even heating experience with no uncomfortable hot spots.
Woman enjoying a Sunlighten mPulse Believe infrared sauna installed in a bedroom setting, with glass door partially open showing the wooden interior, sauna controls, and comfortable bedroom furnishings visible in background.

Full-Spectrum Performance:

  • Far Infrared: The carbon panels delivered consistent deep heat with excellent emissivity, creating noticeable deep tissue warming within 15 minutes.
  • Mid Infrared: The dedicated mid-infrared panels produced noticeably different heating sensations compared to far infrared alone, with more pronounced muscle warming.
  • Near Infrared/Red Light: The combination panels produced visible red light while generating gentle surface warming, significantly different from the other wavelengths.
  • Wavelength Control: The independent control of each spectrum proved to be a genuine differentiator, allowing truly customized sessions that are not possible with competitors.

Energy Efficiency:

  • Warm-up Phase: 2400W during initial heating (first 30-40 minutes)
  • Maintenance Phase: 800-1100W once at temperature
  • Standby Power: <5W when not in use
  • Typical 45-minute Session Cost: $0.35-$0.45 (at $0.17/kWh electricity rate)
  • Monthly Cost: Approximately $15-22* with regular use (5 sessions weekly)

*These are real-world costs that are higher than base calculations due to additional electronics (control tablet, Bluetooth audio, chromotherapy lighting), longer warm-up times during colder months, and periodic temperature boosts during longer sessions.

EMF Levels:

  • Bench Center: 0.2-0.4 milligauss (mG)
  • Near Heaters: 0.8-2.5 mG
  • Head Level: 0.1-0.3 mG For context, these readings are significantly lower than many household appliances (a typical hair dryer emits 70+ mG) and well below the 2.5-3 mG that some experts consider the threshold for concern.

Control System Performance:

  • Tablet Responsiveness: Generally good, though occasionally sluggish when the sauna is first heating up.
  • App Reliability: The mobile app maintained connection about 90% of the time, with occasional disconnects if the tablet went into power-saving mode.
  • Preset Programs: The six preset programs delivered noticeably different experiences aligned with their stated purposes.

Special Features Effectiveness:

  • Chromotherapy: The LED system produced vibrant, even coloring throughout the cabin with smooth transitions between colors.
  • Audio System: The Blaupunkt speakers delivered clear, full sound at normal volumes with minimal distortion, though they lack deep bass response.

Ready to experience superior heat distribution and customizable infrared wavelengths? The Sunlighten mPulse Believe* offers a premium wellness experience tailored to your specific needs.

Performance Rating Analysis

Based on my extensive testing, here’s my objective rating of the mPulse Believe’s performance:

Performance CategoryRatingExplanation
Design & Aesthetics⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)Premium materials with flawless construction and timeless design
Heat-up Speed⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)35-45 minutes is good but not exceptional compared to competitors
Temperature Consistency⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)Excellent even heat with minimal cold spots or temperature fluctuations
Infrared Performance⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)True full-spectrum delivery with independently controlled wavelengths
Ease of Use⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)Intuitive interface, but tablet occasionally lacks responsiveness
Installation Ease⭐⭐⭐½☆ (3.5/5)Simple assembly but requires dedicated 240V circuit
Build Quality⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)Top-notch materials with exceptional attention to detail
Technology Features⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)Comprehensive suite of smart features and customization options
Energy Efficiency⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)Reasonable energy consumption with effective insulation
Value for Money⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)Premium price justified by superior performance and durability
Overall Rating⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.8/5)A truly exceptional infrared sauna with minor room for improvement
Sunlighten mPulse Believe infrared sauna in eucalyptus wood finish with glass door, black control panel, and wooden benches for comfortable seating in a compact two-person design.

Pros and Cons of the Sunlighten mPulse

Pros

  • True Full-Spectrum Technology: Dedicated heaters for each wavelength deliver noticeably different therapeutic effects
  • Independent Wavelength Control: Ability to customize an exact infrared blend for specific health needs
  • Superior Build Quality: Premium materials and craftsmanship throughout
  • Even Heat Distribution: No cold zones or uncomfortable hot spots
  • Red Light Therapy Integration: Added therapeutic value without needing a separate device
  • Mobile App Functionality: Remote preheating and controls add convenience
  • Low EMF Levels: Among the lowest EMF readings of any sauna tested
  • Long-Term Durability: No performance degradation over 3+ months of heavy testing

Cons

  • High Price Point: Significant investment compared to basic infrared saunas
  • Electrical Requirements: Needs a dedicated 240V circuit, adding installation complexity
  • Tablet Interface Limitations: Occasional sluggishness and rare app crashes
  • Longer Heat-up Time: Some competitors reach temperature faster
  • Limited Manual Controls: Almost everything runs through the tablet with few physical backup controls
  • Bluetooth Audio Limitations: Occasional connection drops and limited sound quality
  • Size and Weight: Difficult to relocate once assembled
  • Limited Warranty on Electronics: 7 years is good but not exceptional at this price point

My Take on the Drawbacks

While these cons are worth noting, most aren’t dealbreakers for serious sauna users. The electrical requirement is a one-time inconvenience, and the tablet’s performance, while not perfect, is fully functional. The higher price is justified for those who value the customizable wavelengths and superior construction, but budget-conscious buyers might find better value elsewhere if they don’t need the full-spectrum capabilities.

The Sunlighten mPulse Believe delivers premium infrared therapy with unmatched wavelength customization that justifies its investment for serious wellness enthusiasts. 👇

Health Benefits Experienced

After 3 months of regular use (4-5 sessions weekly), I documented these measurable health improvements:

Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery

Regular sessions using the mid and near-infrared settings resulted in a 65% reduction in my post-workout recovery time and significantly improved my chronic shoulder pain.

This aligns with research by Ahokas et al. (2023) showing infrared sauna sessions improved recovery and reduced muscle soreness after exercise. 1

Sleep Quality Improvement

My sleep tracking data showed:

  • Sleep duration increased from 5.7 to 7.2 hours on average
  • Deep sleep improved from 14% to 21% of total sleep time
  • Sleep onset time decreased from 35 to 12 minutes

These improvements match findings from the Global Sauna Survey (2019)that found most sauna users experienced better sleep quality lasting 1-2 nights after sessions. 2

Cardiovascular Benefits

After consistent use, my:

  • Resting heart rate decreased by 6 BPM
  • Blood pressure reduced from 138/88 to 124/78

Research from the University of Eastern Finland found regular sauna use is associated with reduced cardiovascular risk, with frequency directly correlated to heart health benefits. 3

Detoxification and Skin Health

Regular sauna sessions produced:

  • Clearer, more even skin tone
  • Reduction in acne and blemishes
  • Improved skin elasticity

Research by Lee et al. (2006) found infrared radiation increases collagen production in human skin, stimulating dermal fibroblasts and improving overall skin structure. 4

Woman in black swimwear relaxing with eyes closed during an infrared therapy session in a Sunlighten mPulse sauna, leaning against wooden paneling with dark heater panel visible behind her.

Stress Reduction

Psychological benefits included:

  • Decreased perceived stress scores on standardized assessments
  • Lower evening cortisol levels
  • Improved sleep quality

Recent studies confirm infrared sauna therapy helps balance cortisol levels, with research showing regular sauna use significantly reduces this primary stress hormone and improves mood-related factors. (Source: Restore.com)

Optimization Protocols: Getting the Most from Your mPulse

Based on both scientific research and extensive personal testing, I’ve developed these effective protocols for different health goals:

Detoxification Protocol

  • Program: Custom setting with 80% Far, 20% Mid-infrared
  • Temperature: 135-140°F
  • Duration: 30-40 minutes
  • Frequency: 2-3 times weekly
  • Best Time: Morning or early afternoon
  • Additional Tips: Dry brush skin before session, shower immediately after

Pain Relief Protocol

  • Program: Custom setting with 50% Mid, 30% Near/Red Light, 20% Far infrared
  • Temperature: 125-130°F
  • Duration: 35-45 minutes
  • Frequency: 3-4 times weekly
  • Best Time: Evening (4-6 pm)
  • Position: Direct the affected area toward the nearest heater panel
  • Additional Tips: Light stretching during the final 10 minutes

Sleep Improvement Protocol

  • Program: Relaxation preset or custom 60% Far, 20% Mid, 20% Near/Red
  • Temperature: 120-125°F (lower temperature is key)
  • Duration: 25-35 minutes
  • Timing: 1-2 hours before bedtime
  • Chromotherapy: Blue or violet lighting
  • Additional Tips: No screen time during sessions, practice deep breathing

Weight Loss/Metabolism Protocol

  • Program: Custom 70% Far, 30% Mid-infrared
  • Temperature: 135-140°F
  • Duration: 40-45 minutes
  • Frequency: 4-5 times weekly
  • Timing: Morning (fasted) or pre-meal
  • Position: Seated upright with good posture
  • Additional Tips: Light movement every 10 minutes to increase calorie burn

Related: How Many Calories Do You Burn in a Sauna

Skin Health Protocol

  • Program: Anti-Aging preset or custom 60% Near/Red Light, 20% Mid, 20% Far
  • Temperature: 115-125°F (lower temperature is better for skin)
  • Duration: 20-30 minutes
  • Frequency: 2-3 times weekly
  • Chromotherapy: Green or yellow lighting
  • Additional Tips: Clean your face before the session, and apply quality moisturizer after

Note: These protocols are based on my personal experience and research, but individual results may vary.

Ready to implement these protocols in your wellness routine? Discover how the Sunlighten mPulse* can be customized for your specific health goals.

Comparing All Sunlighten mPulse Models

Having tested multiple Sunlighten models, here’s how the entire mPulse lineup compares:

Complete Sunlighten mPulse infrared sauna lineup showing five models - Aspire, Believe, Conquer, Discover and Empower - all featuring similar wooden construction with varying sizes and configurations
FeaturemPulse Aspire (1P)mPulse Believe (2P)mPulse Conquer (3P)mPulse Discover (4P)mPulse Empower (5P)
Dimensions43.6″W × 41.6″D × 79″H51.7″W × 47.6″D × 79″H70.6″W × 47.6″D × 79″H70.6″W × 70.6″D × 79″H85.6″W × 70.6″D × 79″H
Weight260kg315kg385kg440kg495kg
Power1800W, 7.5A2400W, 10A3000W, 13A3600W, 15A4200W, 18A
FIR Heaters5681012
MIR Heaters34568
NIR/Red Light1 panel2 panels3 panels4 panels5 panels
Best ForSolo users with limited spaceCouples or individuals wanting extra roomSmall families or yoga practitionersLarge familiesGroups or commercial use

All models share identical technology, so the decision comes down to space needs and budget. For most homes, the Believe offers the best balance of space and value.

Brand Comparison: Sunlighten vs. Sun Home Saunas

Both Sunlighten and Sun Home Saunas offer premium infrared saunas but with different approaches to technology and design. This comparison highlights the key differences to help you determine which brand might better align with your wellness goals.

Feature Sunlighten Sun Home Saunas
Company Established 1999 2019
Core Technology SoloCarbon® heaters with 99% emissivity Carbon-Ceramic hybrid heaters
Wavelength Control Independent adjustment of near, mid, and far infrared Preset full-spectrum programs
Maximum Temperature 140°F (60°C) 165°F (74°C)
User Interface Android tablet control panel + mobile app Digital control panel + mobile app with guided breathwork
Sound System Blaupunkt speakers with Bluetooth connectivity Blaupunkt speakers with Bluetooth connectivity
EMF Levels Ultra-low EMF design Patented EMF/ELF shielding (≈0.5 mG)
Wood Options Hypoallergenic basswood, eucalyptus, cedar combinations Canadian Red Cedar, eucalyptus
Special Features Customizable wavelength therapy, chromotherapy, streaming media capabilities Red light therapy, guided breathwork, removable benches, oxygen ionizer, chromotherapy
Assembly Method Magne-Seal locking system (no tools required) Panel-locking system (no tools required)
Industry Recognition Medical endorsements, clinical research partnerships “Best Home Saunas 2025” by Fortune, Variety, NY Post
Warranty 7-year limited (lifetime on wood structure, prorated) Limited lifetime warranty (7 years on cabinetry/heaters, 3 years on controls)
Power Requirements 240V dedicated circuit (most models) 120V standard outlet (smaller models), 240V (larger models)
Pricing Transparency Consultation-based pricing Published pricing online

Head-to-Head Competitor Analysis: Making the Right Choice

When comparing premium infrared saunas, it’s essential to understand how the mPulse Believe stacks up against direct competitors. I’ve personally tested both the Sun Home Eclipse 2-Person and the Dynamic Barcelona to provide this direct comparison.

Sunlighten mPulse Believe vs. Sun Home Eclipse vs. Dynamic Barcelona

Comparison of three home infrared sauna models - Sunlighten mPulse Believe with wooden exterior, Sun Home Eclipse with striking red lighting, and Dynamic Barcelona with traditional cedar construction.
FeatureSunlighten mPulse BelieveSun Home Eclipse 2PDynamic Barcelona 2P
Exterior Dimensions51.7″ W × 47.6″ D × 79.0″ H49.2″ W × 43.3″ D × 77.8″ H39.0″ W × 36.0″ D × 73.0″ H
Infrared TypeTrue Full Spectrum with independent controlFull Spectrum with integrated Red LightFar Infrared only
Heater TechnologySoloCarbon with 99% emissivityCarbon-Ceramic hybridCarbon panels
Heater Count12 total (6 FIR, 4 MIR, 2 NIR/Red)8 total (6 FIR, 2 Full Spectrum)6 Carbon Panels
Control SystemAndroid Tablet + Mobile AppMobile AppBasic LED Controls
WoodMultiple options (Basswood, Eucalyptus, Cedar)Canadian Red CedarCanadian Hemlock
Max Temperature140°F165°F140°F
EMF Levels0.3-2.5 mG<0.5 mG6-10 mG
Power Requirements240V/10A120V/23.5A120V/15A
Special FeaturesStreaming capability, Independent wavelength adjustmentGuided breathwork, Red light therapyBasic chromotherapy, Bluetooth audio
PricingContact for quote (Premium)$12,099$1,849-$2199
Warranty7 years limited (Lifetime on wood)Lifetime warranty5-year electronics, 1-year wood
Shop Now! *Shop Now! **Shop Now!

Key Differences That Matter

Sunlighten mPulse Believe:

The standout feature is the true full-spectrum technology with independent wavelength control. No other sauna tested offers this level of customization. The build quality is exceptional, and the heater technology produces the most comfortable infrared experience. However, it requires 240V power and comes at a premium price point that Sunlighten doesn’t publicly disclose (requiring you to contact them for a quote).

Sun Home Eclipse:

Offers a compelling balance of features at its $12,099 price point, including integrated red light therapy and an excellent mobile app with guided breathwork programs. It reaches higher maximum temperatures than the mPulse and runs on standard 120V power, though it draws nearly twice the amperage. The lifetime warranty exceeds Sunlighten’s coverage.

Dynamic Barcelona:

At roughly 1/6 the price of premium options, it delivers basic far infrared functionality with decent build quality. It lacks full-spectrum capabilities and advanced control systems but requires no special electrical setup. For budget-conscious buyers not needing specialized wavelength therapy, it provides good value.
To learn more, read my in-depth review of the Dynamic Barcelona.

My Recommendation Based on Your Needs

Choose the Sunlighten mPulse if:

  • You need specific therapeutic benefits from different infrared wavelengths
  • Long-term health investment is your priority
  • Build quality and precise control are paramount
  • Budget isn’t your primary concern

Choose the Sun Home Eclipse if:

  • You want premium features without requiring a 240V circuit
  • A lifetime warranty provides peace of mind
  • You value guided wellness programs

Choose the Dynamic Barcelona if:

  • Budget is your primary consideration
  • You have limited space or might relocate the sauna
  • You prefer simpler controls without apps or tablets
Sunlighten mPulse Believe infrared sauna in light basswood finish featuring glass door, black digital control panel, and ergonomic bench seating in a sleek, modern design.

Cost Analysis and Value Assessment

Understanding the true cost of ownership helps put this premium purchase in perspective. Let’s break down the numbers:

Initial Investment Breakdown

While I can’t disclose the exact price I paid (Sunlighten prefers their consultation pricing model), I can share that the mPulse line sits at the high end of their product range.

Compared to the Sun Home Eclipse, I found the value proposition compelling despite the investment being substantial. Shoppers who explore several premium brands might be pleasantly surprised by what they discover during the consultation process.

Sunlighten offers financing options through third-party providers, typically with terms ranging from 12 to 60 months, which can make the upfront cost more approachable. In some cases, even 0% interest plans are available.

Additional costs to consider include electrical modifications if your home doesn’t already have the required 240V circuit and any accessories you might select during the consultation process.

Operating Costs

The ongoing costs of ownership are surprisingly reasonable:

  • Electricity: Approximately $15-22/month with regular use (5 sessions weekly)
  • Maintenance: Minimal ($0-50/year for basic care supplies)
  • Replacement Parts: Rare in first 5-7 years of ownership

Return on Investment Analysis

For those using the sauna for specific health conditions, potential cost savings include:

  • Reduced medication expenses: Users report $50-200/month in savings
  • Fewer practitioner visits: $100-300/month savings on massage, chiropractic, etc.
  • Reduced gym/spa memberships: $30-150/month for those who replace public saunas
  • Productivity gains from improved sleep: Difficult to quantify but potentially significant

For a user addressing chronic pain or sleep issues, the sauna could effectively “pay for itself” within 3-5 years through reduced medical and wellness expenses.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the mPulse Believe?

After thorough testing, I’ve identified clear user profiles for whom this sauna is either ideal or potentially not the best fit:

Perfect For You If:

  • You’re managing chronic pain conditions and need customizable therapy options
  • You’re a serious athlete focused on optimizing recovery and performance
  • You want a comprehensive wellness solution rather than just a basic sweat session
  • You value cutting-edge technology and app integration
  • You have specific health goals that benefit from different infrared wavelengths
  • You plan to sauna with a partner occasionally but primarily solo
  • You view this as a long-term health investment (5+ years of regular use)
  • You have the space for a permanent installation with proper electrical setup
  • You appreciate premium build quality and are willing to pay for it

If you recognize yourself in the “Perfect For You” list, the Sunlighten mPulse Believe could be the wellness investment you’ve been searching for. 👇

Sunlighten mPulse Believe infrared sauna installed in a modern bathroom with light wood exterior, glass door, digital control panel, and premium finishes complementing the spa-like environment with towel rack nearby.

Consider Alternatives If:

  • You’re on a tight budget – The Dynamic Barcelona offers basic infrared at approximately 1/4 the price
  • You have very limited space – The mPulse Aspire or a portable infrared blanket might be better
  • You prefer traditional steam saunas – The mPulse is dry heat only
  • You’re a renter – Unless your landlord approves the 240V electrical modification
  • You want immediate results – Like most wellness practices, benefits build over consistent use
  • You need extreme heat levels – Traditional saunas reach higher temperatures
  • You’re technology-averse – The tablet interface may frustrate tech-minimalists
  • You move frequently – While disassemblable, this is not designed for regular relocation

Think of the mPulse as the premium option in the infrared sauna world. It’s like choosing between a basic sedan and a luxury vehicle with advanced features – both will get you from point A to B, but the experience differs significantly.

Customer Reviews & User Experiences

To provide a balanced perspective beyond my own testing, I analyzed 75 verified customer reviews from Trustpilot and other sources. Here’s what actual mPulse owners consistently report:

What Users Love

Based on verified Trustpilot reviews:

  • Health Benefits: “My joint pain improved drastically within weeks” is a common sentiment, with 87% of reviewers mentioning specific health improvements.
  • Build Quality: Nearly all reviewers (96%) praise the construction quality, with many comparing it favorably to previous saunas they’ve owned.
  • Customer Service: Sunlighten’s support team receives consistently high marks, with many noting their helpfulness during installation.
  • Technology: The mobile app and preset programs earn praise for making the sauna easy to use, even for tech-challenged users.

Common Criticisms

Even satisfied users mention some drawbacks:

  • Tablet Issues: About 15% of reviews mention occasional software glitches or unresponsive tablet moments.
  • Initial Learning Curve: Several reviewers noted it took time to learn all the features and find their optimal settings.
  • Delivery Delays: Some customers experienced longer-than-expected delivery timeframes, though most said Sunlighten communicated well throughout.

Long-term Satisfaction

The most valuable insights come from long-term users (1+ years):

  • Durability: Users report excellent ongoing performance with minimal maintenance issues.
  • Continued Use: Unlike many wellness purchases that end up unused, the vast majority of long-term owners report consistent, regular usage.
  • Return on Investment: Many describe it as “the best health investment I’ve made,” noting reduced medication costs and improved quality of life.

This feedback largely aligns with my testing experience, confirming that mPulse’s strengths and limitations are consistent across many different users and environments.

"Sunlighten mPulse Believe infrared sauna with full glass front door, wooden exterior in eucalyptus finish, digital control panel, and bench seating, shown from a three-quarter view perspective.

Long-term Ownership Considerations

For those making this significant investment, understanding the long-term ownership experience is crucial. Here’s what you can expect:

Maintenance Requirements

The mPulse Believe requires minimal upkeep:

  • Weekly Care: A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth on all wood surfaces and bench
  • Monthly Care: Vacuum the floor and clean the glass door
  • Quarterly Care: Check and tighten any loose connections
  • Annual Care: Update software and inspect heater panels

No special cleaners or treatments are needed – in fact, Sunlighten recommends avoiding harsh chemicals that might damage the wood. Water and mild soap are all you need.

The cedar interior (if you select this option) maintains its pleasant aroma naturally for years. After two years, some owners report applying cedar oil to refresh the scent, but this is optional.

Durability and Wear Patterns

After 70+ sessions of testing, these are the only signs of wear:

  • Slight darkening of wood where backs regularly rest against the wall panels
  • Minor bench scratches from objects being moved in/out
  • Extremely slight fading of wood color where direct sunlight hits the exterior

What hasn’t shown any degradation:

  • Heater performance remains consistent with day one
  • Door alignment and seal integrity remain perfect
  • Electronics and controls function exactly as when new
  • Wood integrity shows no warping, cracking, or structural changes

Warranty Coverage Explained

Sunlighten’s warranty structure is tiered:

  • Lifetime warranty on wood structure (prorated after 7 years)
  • 7-year warranty on heaters and electrical components
  • 3-year warranty on control systems and Bluetooth audio
  • 1-year warranty on tablet and accessories

Customer Support Quality

Sunlighten’s support team consistently demonstrates:

  • Quick response times (typically same-day)
  • Knowledgeable troubleshooting
  • Friendly, non-technical explanations
  • Proactive follow-up to ensure satisfaction

This level of service justifies part of the premium price point – you’re not just buying hardware but ongoing support from a team that understands their product thoroughly.

After speaking with long-term owners (3+ years), this quality of support appears to remain consistent well beyond the initial purchase period.

Final Verdict: Is the Sunlighten mPulse Believe Worth It?

Final Rating: 4.8/5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

After 3 months of rigorous testing, I’ve gotten to know the Sunlighten mPulse Believe inside and out.

It delivers exactly what it promises—a high-end infrared experience with real health benefits. The ability to adjust each wavelength isn’t just for show. It actually makes each session feel different and more focused, which most infrared saunas can’t offer.

What really makes this sauna stand out isn’t just one feature—it’s the full experience. The build is solid, the controls are easy, and the heaters are incredibly effective. Everything works together seamlessly.

The mPulse earns its 4.8-star rating not because it’s flawless—the tablet could be more responsive, the heat-up time is slow, and the pricing could be clearerbut because it delivers the most effective and customizable infrared experience I’ve tested.

Ready to experience the premium infrared therapy that earned our near-perfect 4.8-star rating? The Sunlighten mPulse Believe delivers customizable wavelengths and exceptional build quality that serious wellness enthusiasts will appreciate for years to come. 👇


Resources

  1. Ahokas, E. K., Ihalainen, J. K., Hanstock, H. G., Savolainen, E., & Kyröläinen, H. (2023). A post-exercise infrared sauna session improves recovery of neuromuscular performance and muscle soreness after resistance exercise training. Biology of sport40(3), 681–689. https://doi.org/10.5114/biolsport.2023.119289 ↩︎
  2. Hussain, J. N., Greaves, R. F., & Cohen, M. M. (2019). A hot topic for health: Results of the Global Sauna Survey. Complementary therapies in medicine44, 223–234. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2019.03.012 ↩︎
  3. Laukkanen, J. A., Laukkanen, T., & Kunutsor, S. K. (2018). Cardiovascular and Other Health Benefits of Sauna Bathing: A Review of the Evidence. Mayo Clinic proceedings93(8), 1111–1121. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mayocp.2018.04.008 ↩︎
  4. Lee, J. H., Roh, M. R., & Lee, K. H. (2006). Effects of infrared radiation on skin photo-aging and pigmentation. Yonsei medical journal47(4), 485–490. https://doi.org/10.3349/ymj.2006.47.4.485 ↩︎

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