If you’re choosing between a home steam shower and a traditional sauna, start by knowing that they create different kinds of heat. The products below are steam generators or steam-shower kits, not dry-sauna heaters or complete shower enclosures. They can add steam to a suitable shower, but you’ll need to confirm that your space, plumbing, electrical setup, and installation plan match the unit you choose.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison: Best Steam Showers And Saunas
| Product | Output | Notable features | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| SteamSpa Sentry 9kW, Matte Black | 9kW | QuickStart, dual tank, auto drain, touch pad | A simple steam setup with a matte black finish |
| SteamSpa Sentry 9kW, Oil Rubbed Bronze | 9kW | QuickStart, dual tank, auto drain, touch pad | A matching bronze-finish steam shower setup |
| DELTA SimpleSteam Kit, 15kW | 15kW | Generator, square control, square steam head | A higher-output kit with a streamlined control and head |
| SteamSpa WiFi & Bluetooth Kit, 12kW | 12kW | App control, speakers, lights, two steamheads, auto drain | A feature-rich steam shower experience |
| SteamSpa Premium Bundle, 10.5kW | 10.5kW | QuickStart, dual tank, auto drain, two steamheads | A ready-to-coordinate kit with useful core controls |
Our Picks: Best Steam Showers And Saunas reviews
1. SteamSpa Sentry 9kW: Matte Black Finish and Simple Controls
This 9kW SteamSpa Sentry is a steam generator for a home shower, with a matte black finish. It is not a complete shower enclosure, so you’ll need an appropriate steam-ready shower and a suitable installation plan.
QuickStart is designed to begin producing steam in as little as one to two minutes. The dual-tank design is intended to maintain a steady flow while keeping operating noise down. A touch pad controls temperature and session time, and the built-in auto drain helps clear leftover water and minerals after use.
The compact generator can be placed under a counter or in a closet, according to the product details. A quick connection kit is included to help with installation, but it does not remove the need for qualified plumbing and electrical work. Before buying, confirm that 9kW is appropriate for your shower space and that the finish suits the rest of your fixtures.
Pros:
- QuickStart aims to deliver steam promptly.
- Dual-tank design is made for steady, quieter operation.
- Auto drain helps reduce leftover water and mineral buildup.
- Matte black finish and compact generator design.
Cons:
- The generator is only one part of a steam shower; the room and installation are separate considerations.
- Confirm current listing availability and installation requirements before planning a project around it.
Verdict: Choose this Sentry if you want a 9kW generator with automatic draining and a matte black look, and your shower space is suited to its output.
2. SteamSpa Sentry 9kW: Oil Rubbed Bronze Finish
This version of the SteamSpa Sentry has the same 9kW output and core features as the matte black model, but comes in an oil rubbed bronze finish. That makes the main choice between the two Sentry options a matter of finish and how well it coordinates with your bathroom.
QuickStart is designed to begin producing steam in about one to two minutes. The dual-tank system is intended to maintain continuous steam while limiting operating noise, and the touch pad lets you set the temperature and session time. After a session, the auto drain purges leftover water and helps remove excess minerals.
The kit includes a quick connection kit to help make setup more straightforward for an installer. As with the other Sentry, this is a generator, not a full steam shower enclosure. Check that your shower is suitable for steam and have a qualified professional confirm the unit’s fit for your room and services.
Pros:
- QuickStart and continuous steam technology.
- Dual-tank design aims for steady, quieter operation.
- Built-in auto drain supports routine maintenance.
- Oil rubbed bronze finish for a coordinated bathroom look.
Cons:
- It has the same 9kW output and core features as the other Sentry, so the finish is the key distinction.
- It does not include a complete shower enclosure.
Verdict: This is a sensible option if you want the Sentry’s 9kW features in an oil rubbed bronze finish; compare it with the matte black version based on your bathroom design.
3. DELTA SimpleSteam 15kW Kit: Square Control and Steam Head
The DELTA SimpleSteam kit pairs a 15kW generator with a square control and square steam head. The product listing also describes the SimpleSteam line in several output sizes, so make sure the listing you choose is specifically for the 15kW configuration.
The compact generator is designed to fit in a vanity, closet, insulated attic, or basement. The kit includes a 35-foot cable, with an extension cable sold separately. This gives you some placement flexibility, but the generator still needs a location that works with the project’s layout and installation requirements.
One important difference from the SteamSpa options is that the product details recommend a generator pan and auto drain, which are sold separately. Factor those items into your setup rather than assuming they come in the box. The 15kW output may suit some larger or more demanding projects, but a qualified installer should confirm the right capacity for your specific steam room.
Pros:
- Includes the generator, square control, and square steam head.
- Compact design allows several possible installation locations.
- Includes a 35-foot cable.
- 15kW option for projects that call for a higher-output generator.
Cons:
- Recommended generator pan and auto drain are sold separately.
- Extension cable is also sold separately if the included cable is not long enough.
Verdict: Consider the SimpleSteam kit if you want a 15kW generator with a matching square control and steam head, and you’re prepared to source the recommended drainage accessories separately.
4. SteamSpa 12kW WiFi Kit: App Control, Audio, and Lighting
This 12kW SteamSpa kit is the most feature-packed option in this group. The package includes two steamheads, an auto drain, a drain pan, chroma lights, speakers, and an aroma reservoir. Its gold trim and included accessories give it a more decorative, all-in-one feel than a generator-only purchase.
The touchscreen lets you set temperature, session time, and custom steam profiles. WiFi app control is designed to let you start or stop the unit remotely, while Bluetooth audio connects a phone to the dual speakers. The auto drain is built in to help purge water from the generator after use.
Those extra features can make this kit appealing if you want audio and lighting as part of the steam experience. They also mean more components to coordinate during installation. Confirm the included equipment works with your planned shower, and have the required room size and 12kW capacity checked before you commit.
Pros:
- Includes two steamheads, a drain pan, auto drain, lights, speakers, and an aroma reservoir.
- WiFi app control and Bluetooth audio add convenient options.
- Touchscreen supports temperature, session time, and custom profiles.
- 12kW generator offers more output than the 9kW Sentry models.
Cons:
- Its extra electronics and accessories may be unnecessary if you only want basic steam generation.
- Confirm that the kit’s features and output suit your space before installation.
Verdict: Choose this kit if you want a more complete, connected steam-shower setup with audio and lighting, rather than a basic generator alone.
5. SteamSpa 10.5kW Premium Bundle: A Balanced Kit with Two Steamheads
This 10.5kW SteamSpa bundle sits between the 9kW Sentry models and the higher-output 12kW and 15kW options. It includes the generator, a wall-mounted touch pad, two steamheads, and a quick connection kit. The polished chrome finish is a straightforward match for many bathroom styles.
QuickStart is designed to produce steam in about a minute, and the dual-tank system aims to maintain a steady flow with less distracting noise. The touch pad sets temperature and session time, reads room temperature, and saves favorite settings. A steamhead reservoir can be used for aromatherapy.
The built-in auto drain is designed to clear excess water and minerals after a session. Compared with the 12kW SteamSpa kit, this bundle has fewer entertainment features, but it still includes useful controls and two steamheads. It is a strong middle-ground choice if the output is right for your shower and you do not need app control or built-in speakers.
Pros:
- 10.5kW output sits between the 9kW and higher-output options in this group.
- Includes two steamheads, a touch pad, and a quick connection kit.
- Auto drain and dual-tank design support regular use and steady steam.
- Touch pad saves favorite settings and reads room temperature.
Cons:
- Does not include the WiFi, Bluetooth speakers, and chroma lights of the 12kW kit.
- Still requires a steam-suitable shower and professional installation planning.
Verdict: Pick this bundle if you want a well-equipped SteamSpa kit with two steamheads and core convenience features, without paying for a more elaborate connected setup.
How to Choose a Steam Shower Generator
Know the difference between a steam shower and a sauna
A steam shower uses a generator to fill a suitable enclosed shower with steam. A traditional sauna uses a heater to warm the air and often relies on a different room design. The products in this guide are steam generators and steam-shower kits, not complete sauna heaters or ready-made enclosures. If you want dry sauna heat, look for a sauna system designed for that purpose.
Match generator output to your space
The products here range from 9kW to 15kW. A higher number does not automatically mean a better fit: the right capacity depends on the space and project requirements. Ask a qualified installer to assess your shower before choosing an output. Avoid selecting a unit based on wattage alone or assuming that a larger model will always heat your room faster.
Check what the package actually includes
Some listings include only the generator and basic controls, while others add steamheads, a drain pan, speakers, lights, or an aroma reservoir. The DELTA SimpleSteam product details recommend a pan and auto drain that are sold separately. Compare the included parts with your project list so you can account for any additional components before installation.
Plan the enclosure and installation
A generator does not make an ordinary shower steam-ready by itself. The shower enclosure and its materials must be appropriate for steam, and the unit needs suitable plumbing and electrical connections. Have qualified professionals review the room, placement, and connections before you order. A quick connection kit can help, but it is not a substitute for installation planning.
Decide which controls and extras you will use
A basic touch pad may be enough if you mainly want control over temperature and session time. App control, Bluetooth audio, speakers, and chroma lights add more ways to customize a session, but may not be worth prioritizing if you prefer a simpler setup. Choose features you expect to use, not just the longest feature list.
Consider maintenance features
Minerals can collect in steam equipment over time, so drainage and maintenance deserve attention. Several SteamSpa models include an auto drain, while the DELTA kit recommends a separately purchased auto drain and pan. Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions and confirm what maintenance parts are needed for the specific model you buy.
Check the finish and current listing details
Finish can help a control or visible component fit your bathroom, but it should come after capacity and installation needs. Product listings and availability can change, so check the selected configuration, included accessories, and current seller details before you make a purchase. Make sure you are comparing the exact output and finish you intend to install.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these products complete steam showers?
No. They are steam generators or generator kits. You need a suitable shower enclosure, and some installation materials or accessories may be separate. Check each listing carefully to see what is included.
Can I use these products as traditional sauna heaters?
No. These products are designed to generate steam for a steam shower. A traditional sauna uses a different type of heating system, so choose equipment made specifically for a dry sauna if that is your goal.
How do I know which kW size I need?
The right output depends on your room and installation. Have a qualified professional assess your planned steam shower and recommend a suitable capacity rather than choosing based only on the highest number.
Which option includes WiFi and Bluetooth?
The SteamSpa 12kW kit includes WiFi app control and Bluetooth audio, along with speakers, chroma lights, two steamheads, an auto drain, a drain pan, and an aroma reservoir.
Do all of these kits include an auto drain?
No. The SteamSpa options described here include auto-drain features. The DELTA SimpleSteam product details recommend an auto drain and generator pan, but state that they are sold separately.
Can I install a steam generator myself?
These products require careful coordination with the shower, plumbing, and electrical setup. A quick connection kit may help an installer, but it does not confirm that a space is ready for steam. Consult qualified professionals before installation.
Final Recommendation
For a straightforward setup, the SteamSpa 10.5kW Premium Bundle offers two steamheads, a touch pad, and auto drain without the added entertainment features of the 12kW kit. Choose the 12kW SteamSpa option if app control, Bluetooth audio, and included lighting matter most to you. The 9kW Sentry models are the finish-focused choices, while the DELTA SimpleSteam kit may suit a project that calls for 15kW and allows for separately purchased drainage accessories. In every case, confirm the right output and installation plan for your shower before buying.
