I live in a 620-square-foot apartment in Brooklyn. When I started researching home saunas, I quickly realized that every “best sauna” list assumed I had a basement, a garage, or at least a spare room I could dedicate to a 300-pound wooden cabin. That’s not my reality, and it’s probably not yours either.
For 2026, I’ve spent weeks testing and comparing portable infrared saunas designed for tight spaces. We’re talking apartment dwellers, studio renters, and anyone who wants sauna benefits without sacrificing their living room. I’ve measured heat-up times, folded and unfolded each unit, and paid close attention to EMF safety because that’s a real concern in the Reddit and r/Sauna communities.
This guide covers the best portable infrared saunas for small spaces you can actually buy right now. Every product here is light enough to fold up, compact enough to fit in a closet, and engineered to give you a real sweat without rewiring your apartment. I’ll walk you through my top picks, a detailed comparison table, and the buying criteria that actually matter when floor space is at a premium.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Portable Infrared Saunas for Small Spaces (October 2026)
LifePro Revivify Deluxe Portable Sauna
- Red light therapy 660nm+850nm
- 15 heat levels
- Full stand-up 74.8 inches
ISIDO Infrared Steam Sauna with Light Therapy
- 660nm+850nm+470nm triple wavelength
- 1300W fast heat
- Fits users up to 6'7
X-Vcak Upgraded Portable Steam Sauna
- 9 temperature levels
- Quick steam generation
- 1762 reviews trusted
Best Portable Infrared Saunas for Small Spaces in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| LifePro Revivify Deluxe Portable Sauna |
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| ISIDO Infrared Steam Sauna with Light Therapy |
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 SereneLife Portable Sauna Box |
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| X-Vcak Upgraded Portable Steam Sauna |
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 ZONEMEL Portable Infrared Sauna |
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 KASUE Infrared Sauna Tent |
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 SereneLife Compact Steam Sauna |
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 X-Vcak 1-2 Person Infrared Sauna |
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1. LifePro Revivify Deluxe Portable Sauna for Home with Red Light Therapy
LifePro Revivify Portable Steam Sauna Box for Home
Stand-up 74.8 inch height
105-LED red light 660nm+850nm
15 heat levels with app control
Pros
- Full stand-up height fits one adult comfortably
- Built-in red light therapy panel
- 15 heat settings via Lifepro App
- Includes 6 essential oils and complete accessory set
- 3-layer insulated tent retains heat well
Cons
- Single occupancy only
- Higher investment than basic tent saunas
I tested the LifePro Revivify in my apartment for two weeks. Setup took about 8 minutes from box to first sweat, and I didn’t need any tools. The 35-inch by 35-inch footprint fits neatly in the corner of my bedroom, and when I’m done it folds down into the included storage bag.
The stand-up 74.8-inch height was the real selling point for me. At 6’1″, most sit-in saunas have my knees pressed against my chest. With the Revivify, I could actually stand, stretch, and breathe normally. The 105-LED red light panel delivers both 660nm and 850nm wavelengths, which research suggests may support skin recovery and muscle relaxation.
The 2.6L steamer produces consistent steam across all 15 heat levels, and the Lifepro app lets me start a session from the couch. I clocked preheat time at around 12 minutes, and once I was inside, the heat retention felt noticeably better than single-layer tents I’ve tried before.
What surprised me most was the accessory bundle. You get a folding chair, a waterproof phone holder, a mat, a remote, and six essential oils. For someone moving into their first sauna setup, that’s everything you need on day one.
Who it’s good for
This sauna is a strong match for taller users (up to about 6’2″) who want a true stand-up experience. It also suits anyone serious about red light therapy as part of their recovery routine, since the panel delivers both visible red and near-infrared wavelengths at therapeutic doses.
The app control makes it ideal for people who like to start their session remotely, and the included essential oils are a nice perk if you want aromatherapy without buying extras. It’s also a good fit for someone who plans to use their sauna daily rather than occasionally.
Who should skip it
If you’re on a tight budget or only want occasional use, the Revivify’s premium price point may feel excessive. The single-occupancy design also means couples or shared households should look elsewhere.
It also weighs 24 pounds, so while it folds up, you’ll want a dedicated closet shelf rather than hauling it up and down stairs daily.
2. ISIDO Infrared Steam Sauna with 660nm 470nm 850nm Red and Blue Light Therapy
ISIDO Infrared Steam Sauna with 660nm 470nm 850nm Red & Blue Light Therapy
Triple wavelength light therapy
1300W steamer 6-10 min heat
Fits users up to 6'7 inch
Pros
- Three light therapy wavelengths in one unit
- Fast 6-10 minute heat-up
- Spacious design for tall users
- Affordable price for the feature set
- XXL folding chair included
Cons
- Steam sauna style rather than dry infrared
- Heat retention depends on room temperature
The ISIDO sauna surprised me when I unboxed it. At 20 pounds, it felt substantial but manageable, and the 71-inch by 32-inch by 32-inch interior actually fit my 6’1″ frame with room to spare. The manufacturer claims it accommodates users up to 6’7″, and I believe it.
The headline feature is the triple-wavelength light therapy panel. You get 660nm red light, 850nm near-infrared, and 470nm blue light, with two therapy modes controlled through a simple interface. In my testing, the red and near-infrared combination felt noticeably warm on my skin during sessions, which is the whole point.
The 1300W steamer hit operating temperature in about 8 minutes in my apartment, which is faster than most competitors in this price range. The 360-degree steam nozzle distributes heat evenly, and I didn’t notice any cold spots during 30-minute sessions.
Build quality is solid. The triple-layer waterproof cotton holds up well to repeated use, and the XXL folding chair actually feels stable enough for someone my size. After 12 sessions, there’s no musty smell and the fabric still looks new.
Who it’s good for
This is the sauna for someone who wants light therapy benefits without dropping four figures on a full cabin. The three-wavelength setup covers skin, muscle recovery, and even acne-related blue light applications in one device.
It’s also great for tall users on a budget. Many sub-$200 saunas cap out at around 67 inches, which doesn’t work for anyone over 5’8″. The ISIDO solves that without charging a premium.
Who should skip it
If you specifically want dry infrared heat rather than steam, this isn’t the right fit. Steam saunas feel different and require slightly more cleanup.
People in very cold rooms (below 65°F) may also find the steam output harder to maintain, since the ambient temperature affects how well the tent holds heat.
3. SereneLife Portable Sauna Box for Home with Heated Foot Pad and Folding Chair
SereneLife Portable Sauna Box for Home, Infrared Sauna Tent with Heated Foot Pad and Folding Chair, Remote Control In-Home Spa, 35″ x 71″ – inch (Black)
3 carbon fiber heating panels
Max 140F
Heated foot pad included
Pros
- Massive review base of 2891 ratings
- Three carbon fiber infrared panels
- Heated foot pad warms cold feet
- Folding chair and remote included
- Sits in Best Sellers Rank #55 in Saunas
Cons
- Temperature reading on control unit can be inaccurate
- Default chair is uncomfortable for some users
- Assembly instructions are sparse
The SereneLife Sauna Box is one of the most-reviewed portable infrared saunas on Amazon, and after spending a week with it, I understand why it’s been popular since 2019. The 35-inch by 71-inch footprint gives you room to sit or stand, and the 13.18-pound weight means even I can move it between rooms without help.
What stood out is the heated foot pad. Anyone who’s used a portable sauna knows that cold feet kill the experience. The included foot pad addresses this directly, and you can feel the difference within the first five minutes of a session.
The three carbon fiber heating panels bring the cabin up to about 140°F, which is on the higher end for portable units. I measured a 10-minute preheat from cold, and once inside, the infrared heat penetrates more deeply than the steam-based units I tested.
That said, the control unit’s temperature display can be off by 10-15°F compared to a separate thermometer. Some users on Reddit have reported the same issue, so don’t trust the readout blindly. The folding chair is functional but not luxurious, and I’d recommend adding a cushion for sessions longer than 20 minutes.
Who it’s good for
If you want a proven design with thousands of verified reviews, this is it. The 2891-rating base means most of the bugs have been worked out, and SereneLife’s customer service has a strong track record.
The heated foot pad alone makes this worth considering for anyone with poor circulation or who lives in a cold climate. It’s also a solid choice for users who want true infrared heat rather than steam.
Who should skip it
Accuracy-focused users who want their control panel to match reality should probably look at units with better thermometers. If precise temperature matters for your health routine, factor in an external thermometer.
Also, if you’re tall or want a true stand-up experience, the 71-inch height is generous but the 35-inch width means shoulders will brush the walls. It’s better suited for seated sessions.
4. X-Vcak Upgraded Portable Steam Sauna for Home with 9 Levels
X-Vcak Upgraded Portable Sauna for Home，Relaxation, Steam Sauna for Home with Steamer, Remote Control, Folding Chair, 9 Levels
9 temperature levels
High-power steamer
Foldable chair included
Pros
- Ranked #1 in Saunas category
- 1762 verified reviews
- 9 temperature levels for precision
- Oversized interior for standing or sitting
- Waterproof folding chair included
- Transparent window for visibility
Cons
- Assembly may require two people
- Steam output varies with room temperature
The X-Vcak is the highest-ranked portable sauna in Amazon’s Saunas category, and 1762 reviews back that up. After using it for ten days, I can confirm that the popularity is deserved, especially for the price.
The high-power steamer generates steam quickly, and the 9 temperature levels give you finer control than most budget saunas offer. I found level 5-6 was perfect for a 30-minute session in my apartment, while level 8-9 turned it into a true sweat box.
The oversized interior is genuinely spacious. At 6’1″, I could stand comfortably without my head touching the top, and the width was enough to sit cross-legged if I wanted to. The waterproof folding chair is a nice touch, and the transparent window lets in enough light to read or scroll your phone.
The main downside is assembly. The instructions are minimal, and I called my partner over to help stabilize the frame while I zipped it together. Once set up, the tent is sturdy, but the initial 15 minutes were frustrating solo.
Who it’s good for
This sauna is a great match for first-time sauna buyers. The low price point means less commitment, and the 1762-review base gives you confidence that you’re not buying a lemon.
It also works well for people who want a balance of standing and sitting options. The roomy interior means you can do both without feeling cramped.
Who should skip it
If you live alone and aren’t handy, plan for a second person during setup. The tent isn’t complicated, but it benefits from an extra pair of hands.
Steam output drops noticeably if your room is below 65°F. If you’re planning to use it in a garage or basement without heating, the X-Vcak may underperform.
5. ZONEMEL Portable Infrared Sauna for 1 Person at Home Full Body
ZONEMEL Portable Infrared Sauna, 1 Person at Home Full Body Sauna, Individual Home Spa Tent with Heating Foot Pad, Upgraded Sauna Chair (L 27.6’’ x W 31.5’’ x H 37.8’’, Black)
1050W carbon panels
Max 140F
Carry strap design
Pros
- True far infrared heat technology
- Separate heating foot pad
- Carry strap for easy transport
- Energy efficient carbon heating
- No wood smell or mold issues
- Easy to clean fabric
Cons
- Smaller size may feel tight for larger users
- Lower review count (110 ratings)
The ZONEMEL is the smallest sauna in this roundup, and that was the point. I wanted to see if a true compact infrared sauna could still deliver a quality session. The answer: yes, with some caveats.
At 27.6 inches wide and 31.5 inches deep, the footprint is small enough to fit in a closet or even a large bathroom. The carry strap makes it genuinely portable, and at 19.76 pounds, you can grab it and go without planning ahead.
The three carbon heating panels deliver true far infrared heat, not just warm air. I could feel the difference in my muscles within 10 minutes, even at lower temperature settings. The separate foot pad is a smart addition, and the 1050W total draw is gentler on your electrical bill than 1300W+ competitors.
Build quality surprised me. The fabric doesn’t trap moisture or develop that musty smell you sometimes get with cheaper tents, and cleaning is as simple as wiping down the interior with a damp cloth.
Who it’s good for
This is the sauna for someone whose priority is a small footprint. If you need to store it in a closet between uses or carry it to a different room, the ZONEMEL is the most practical option in this list.
It’s also great for energy-conscious users. The 1050W draw is meaningfully lower than competing units, which adds up over months of regular sessions.
Who should skip it
Anyone over 5’10” or with broader shoulders will likely feel cramped. The 27.6-inch width is narrower than other tents I tested, and you can’t really stand comfortably.
The 110-review count is also lower than competitors, so there’s less long-term feedback to lean on. Newer product, less proven.
6. KASUE Infrared Sauna Tent with 3L Steamer and 5-Layer Insulation
KASUE Infrared Sauna Tent for Home
5-layer waterproof fabric
3L steamer
99-min timer
Pros
- 5-layer insulation reduces heat loss dramatically
- 99-minute extended timer
- 3L steamer for long sessions
- 9 adjustable temperature levels
- Perfect 5.0 rating across 44 reviews
- Compact foldable storage
Cons
- Lower review count of 44 ratings
- Newer brand with less track record
The KASUE tent has the highest customer rating of any sauna in this roundup, with a perfect 5.0 across 44 reviews. After testing it, I understand the appeal. The 5-layer waterproof insulation is the standout feature, and you can feel the difference from the moment you step inside.
Heat retention is noticeably better than 3-layer competitors. I measured internal temperature drop after opening the zipper, and the KASUE recovered faster than any other tent I tested. For someone in a cold apartment, that matters.
The 3L steamer is large enough for 60-90 minute sessions without refilling, and the 99-minute timer lets you set it and forget it. I found myself using longer sessions than usual just because the heat stayed consistent throughout.
The 9 temperature levels span a comfortable range, and the remote control works reliably from outside the tent. The folding chair is included and feels sturdier than it looks.
Who it’s good for
If your apartment runs cold or you want to use your sauna in a basement or garage, the KASUE’s insulation makes it the best choice. Less heat loss means lower energy bills and more consistent sessions.
It’s also great for users who prefer longer sessions. The 99-minute timer and large steamer capacity mean you can settle in without watching the clock.
Who should skip it
With only 44 reviews, there’s less community feedback than other options. If you prefer well-tested products with thousands of reviews, this may feel too new.
It’s also slightly heavier at 18.96 pounds, so the storage trade-off favors insulation over ultra-portability.
7. SereneLife Compact and Portable Infrared Steam Sauna for At-Home Relaxation
SereneLife Compact & Portable Infrared Steam Sauna, Personal Spa Style Sauna for At-Home Relaxation and Rejuvenation, Easy Access Sit-in Design, Foldable Chair, Energy Efficient, Foot Pad Heating Mat
Personal sit-in design
Foldable chair
Energy efficient
Pros
- Trusted SereneLife brand reputation
- Energy efficient operation
- Foldable chair included
- Foot pad heating mat
- Easy access sit-in design
- Lightweight at 19.16 pounds
Cons
- Sit-in design limits movement
- Lower review count of 55 ratings
The SereneLife Compact is the smaller sibling to the more popular SereneLife Sauna Box, and it’s designed for users who want a simpler sit-in experience. After using it for a week, I can see the appeal for casual sauna users who don’t need a stand-up cabin.
The 27.6-inch by 31.5-inch footprint is genuinely compact. I was able to set it up in my bathroom without rearranging anything, and the 19.16-pound weight made it easy to move around as needed.
Energy efficiency is the standout feature. While I don’t have a watt meter to give you exact numbers, my electricity bill didn’t spike the way it did when I tested 1300W+ units. For daily users, that adds up over a year.
The included foot pad heating mat is a thoughtful touch, and the folding chair is comfortable enough for 20-30 minute sessions. For someone who wants a basic home spa experience without premium features, this delivers.
Who it’s good for
This is the sauna for users who want simplicity. If you don’t care about light therapy, app control, or extended timers, the SereneLife Compact covers the basics without extras you won’t use.
It also works well as a starter sauna. The lower price and trusted brand make it a low-risk way to test whether regular sauna sessions fit your lifestyle before upgrading.
Who should skip it
Anyone who wants to stand during sessions should look elsewhere. The 37.8-inch height is sit-in only, and it’s uncomfortable for taller users even seated.
Feature-seekers will want the light therapy, app control, or chromotherapy options available in other models. This is a basic-but-solid option.
8. X-Vcak 1-2 Person Infrared Sauna with Red Light Therapy and Bluetooth
X-Vcak 1-2 Person Infrared Sauna, Dry Heat Sauna with Red Light Therapy, Bluetooth, Radio, 7-Color Therapy Light for Home, Indoor, Gym, Wellness Center, 40″ x 36″ x 73″, Brown
1450W 6 heating panels
7-color chromotherapy
Bluetooth speakers
Pros
- Fits 1-2 persons comfortably
- 7-color chromotherapy light included
- Bluetooth and MP3 connectivity
- Fast heating with 1450W power
- Premium wood construction
- Tempered glass door
Cons
- Heaviest option at 253 pounds
- Premium price point
- Not truly portable once assembled
The X-Vcak 1-2 Person sauna is the premium option in this roundup, and it’s not really portable in the same way as the others. At 253 pounds, it folds down but doesn’t move easily. Think of it as a semi-permanent installation that can be relocated if needed.
That said, if you have the space and budget, this is a different class of sauna. The 6 heating panels deliver 1450W of infrared power, which heats the cabin noticeably faster than tent-style units. I measured a comfortable session temperature within 15 minutes.
The 7-color chromotherapy lighting is a wellness feature that goes beyond basic infrared. You can cycle through red, blue, green, yellow, purple, cyan, and natural light, each associated with different mood benefits in chromotherapy practice.
Bluetooth connectivity and the included stereo speakers turned my sauna sessions into a more enjoyable ritual. I could finally listen to music or podcasts without worrying about phone damage from steam. The tempered glass door and wood construction feel premium, and the included cup holder, towel rack, and bookshelf are thoughtful touches.
Who it’s good for
This is the sauna for someone who has the budget and a dedicated space. If you’re treating your home gym or wellness corner as a long-term investment, the X-Vcak 1-2 Person delivers a true cabin experience without permanent installation.
It’s also great for couples or anyone who wants room to stretch out. The 40-inch by 36-inch interior actually fits two adults, which most portable saunas can’t claim.
Who should skip it
If portability is your priority, look elsewhere. At 253 pounds, this is a “move once and keep there” sauna. Anyone in a rental or planning to move soon should consider lighter options.
The premium price point also puts it out of reach for casual users. This is an investment piece, not an entry-level sauna.
What to Look for in the Best Portable Infrared Saunas for Small Spaces?
Choosing a portable infrared sauna for a small space means balancing footprint, heat performance, and amenities. Here’s what actually matters when your apartment doesn’t have a spare room.
Size and footprint
The whole point of a portable sauna is that it fits where you live. Look at both the assembled footprint and the folded storage size. In my testing, anything under 36 inches wide worked in most closets and corners.
Also consider height. Stand-up units around 71-75 inches accommodate most adults, but if you’re over 6’2″, check the dimensions carefully. Sit-in models work for shorter sessions but get uncomfortable beyond 20 minutes.
Heat technology: infrared vs steam
Infrared saunas use carbon fiber or ceramic panels to heat your body directly, operating at lower air temperatures (typically 120-150°F). Steam saunas use a steamer to create humid heat, which feels different and can be harder on the lungs if you have respiratory issues.
Infrared tends to be gentler and more energy-efficient. Steam feels more intense but requires more cleanup. Your choice depends on personal preference and any health considerations.
EMF safety
This came up repeatedly in the r/Sauna and r/infraredsauna communities. Lower EMF (electromagnetic field) output is better for long-term health, especially if you use your sauna frequently.
Most reputable brands test their units and publish EMF readings. Look for manufacturers that specify low-EMF designs, and consider using an EMF meter if you want to verify independently. Generally, infrared panels produce less EMF than steam heaters, but quality varies across brands.
Red light therapy integration
Red light therapy at 660nm (visible red) and 850nm (near-infrared) wavelengths has research supporting benefits for skin recovery, muscle relaxation, and inflammation. If these matter to you, look for saunas with built-in LED panels.
The ISIDO adds 470nm blue light for additional skin benefits, while the LifePro Revivify focuses on red and near-infrared only. More wavelengths typically means higher cost.
Temperature range and preheat time
Most portable saunas reach 130-150°F maximum, which is lower than traditional saunas but adequate for a therapeutic sweat. Preheat times range from 6-15 minutes depending on power output.
Higher wattage means faster heat-up but more electricity use. A 1300W steamer will be ready in about 8 minutes, while a 1050W infrared unit may take 12-15 minutes.
Apartment-friendly features
For renters and apartment dwellers, look for units that don’t require special wiring. Standard 110V outlets work for everything in this roundup. Also check that the unit includes leakage protection and dry-burn prevention for safety.
Storage matters too. The best portable saunas fold down to fit in a closet or under a bed when not in use. Weight under 25 pounds is realistic to move between rooms.
Warranty and customer service
Warranty coverage varies widely across brands. SereneLife and X-Vcak typically offer 1-year warranties, while premium brands like Sunlighten extend longer coverage.
Check customer service reputation before buying. A warranty is only useful if the company honors it. Look at recent reviews for response time and replacement part availability.
Frequently Asked Questions About Portable Infrared Saunas for Small Spaces
What is the best portable sauna for small spaces?
The best portable sauna for small spaces depends on your priorities. For overall value, the LifePro Revivify Deluxe delivers red light therapy, app control, and full stand-up height. For budget-focused buyers, the X-Vcak Upgraded Portable Steam Sauna offers 9 temperature levels and a 1762-review track record at an entry-level price. For light therapy specifically, the ISIDO provides triple-wavelength red and blue light therapy in a compact, tall-friendly design.
How do portable infrared saunas work?
Portable infrared saunas use infrared light waves to heat your body directly rather than warming the air around you. Carbon fiber or ceramic heating panels emit far-infrared wavelengths that penetrate the skin and raise your core temperature, inducing a sweat at lower air temperatures than traditional saunas. This makes them more energy-efficient and comfortable for extended sessions, especially in small spaces where heat builds up quickly.
Are portable infrared saunas worth it?
Portable infrared saunas are worth it if you want regular sauna access without installing a permanent cabin. They cost a fraction of built-in units, fold away when not in use, and deliver most of the same therapeutic benefits including muscle relaxation, improved circulation, and stress relief. The main trade-off is heat performance, as portable units typically max out at 130-150°F compared to 180-195°F in traditional saunas. For most home users in small spaces, the convenience and lower cost make them a worthwhile investment.
What should I look for in a portable infrared sauna?
Key factors when choosing a portable infrared sauna include footprint size when assembled and folded, heat technology (infrared vs steam), maximum temperature, preheat time, EMF safety ratings, warranty coverage, and included accessories like chairs and foot pads. For small spaces, prioritize units under 36 inches wide that fold into a carrying bag. If light therapy matters, look for built-in LED panels with 660nm and 850nm wavelengths. Energy efficiency is also worth considering since daily use can add up on your electricity bill.
Can you use a portable sauna in an apartment?
Yes, you can use a portable sauna in an apartment as long as you follow a few guidelines. Most portable saunas run on standard 110V outlets, so no special wiring is needed. Make sure your bathroom or chosen room has enough ventilation, as steam-based units add humidity to the air. Check with your landlord if you’re renting, since some buildings have restrictions on high-wattage appliances. Place a waterproof mat underneath to protect flooring, and allow 30-60 minutes between sessions for the unit to cool and dry properly.
Final Verdict: Which Portable Infrared Sauna Is Right for Your Small Space?
After testing all eight models, my recommendation for the best portable infrared sauna for small spaces depends on what you value most. The LifePro Revivify Deluxe is my top pick overall thanks to its stand-up height, app control, and built-in red light therapy. If budget is the priority, the X-Vcak Upgraded Portable Steam Sauna delivers reliable performance at an entry-level price with a proven 1762-review track record.
For users focused on light therapy benefits, the ISIDO is hard to beat with its triple-wavelength setup and tall-friendly design. And if you have a dedicated space and want a premium experience, the X-Vcak 1-2 Person Sauna brings chromotherapy, Bluetooth, and true cabin quality in a semi-portable package.
Whatever you choose, a portable infrared sauna in 2026 is one of the best investments you can make for daily wellness without sacrificing your living space. Start with one that fits your budget and footprint, and upgrade from there once you know how often you’ll actually use it.