Choose a red light device for the area you'll actually treat. For face-only use, compare a mask with a small panel. For a single joint or travel, start with a handheld or wearable.
For larger body areas, my panel picks are the RLT Home TotalSpectrum MAX and the lower-priced Bestqool Pro200. Brain helmets and UVB lamps serve separate goals, covered below.
I’ve tested 8 red light therapy devices with over $3,000 in laboratory-grade instruments. A Hopoocolor spectroradiometer, flicker analyzer, EMF meter, EMI meter, decibel meter, and power meter. All to find the best panels for home use.
The device is only part of the decision. Coverage, setup, and the time each session takes determine whether it fits your routine. Buy for the area you want to treat before paying for more features.
I got into measuring this the hard way. In 2018 I tried to build my own spectrometer, burned an absurd amount of time on it, and ended up spending more than a finished instrument would have cost. So I bought pro gear instead, and I have been checking manufacturer claims against it ever since.
That matters here more than in almost any other category, because irradiance is the number brands compete on and the one buyers can rarely check for themselves.
I've measured two of the devices behind these picks myself: the Mitolux BTS2 and RLT Home's TotalSpectrum ELITE, the bigger sibling of the MAX. The other picks are ranked on manufacturer specs and fit for the job, and I flag which is which. The measured numbers live in my testing lab.
Choose coverage around your goal: a mask or small panel for facial use, a portable device for one area, or a larger panel for body sessions.
The MAX and Bestqool Pro200 are body-panel choices. Brain PBM and UVB lamps require their own evidence and safety decisions.
Compare measured output at your treatment distance alongside coverage, uniformity, setup, and the time needed to treat each area.
I've measured the TotalSpectrum ELITE and Mitolux BTS2. The MAX and other unmeasured picks are assessed on specifications and fit, not borrowed test results.
Independently Tested
Nick independently measures devices using a professional light spectrometer, power meter, flicker meter, EMF meter, and dirty electricity meter.
How do the best red light therapy devices compare?
Use the table to compare devices within your goal and budget. A body panel, a handheld, a brain helmet, and a UVB lamp solve different problems; a higher output or a longer wavelength list doesn't make one the better choice across all four.
If you’re still deciding what to look for, start with the red light therapy buyer’s guide.
If you already know you want a standing panel, the full-body panel rankings go deeper on that single category, and the budget panel guide covers the same decision at a lower spend.
Specs get you to a shortlist. They don't tell you which device you'll actually reach for every morning. Below is the protocol I run on the devices I measure; the picks I haven't measured yet are ranked on published specs and how well they fit the job.
How do I test & rank these devices?
Here's the protocol I run on every device I measure. I warm each unit for 15 minutes, then measure irradiance at 12 inches with a calibrated HOPOOCOLOR OHSP350IR spectroradiometer.
I also test flicker with a HPCS330P analyzer and EMF with a Cornet ED88T meter.
Irradiance alone doesn't tell the full story, so I also record the complete spectral output to show exactly which wavelengths each device produces and at what intensity.
Some panels advertise “5 wavelengths” but my spectrometer data shows negligible output on two of them. Others quietly outperform their marketing claims.
I also evaluate build quality, thermal management, and real-world usability.
Some panels produce audible fan noise that makes them impractical for meditation or sleep routines. These details rarely appear on spec sheets but make a significant difference in whether you actually use the device consistently.
See the full testing methodology for my exact protocol, equipment specs, and calibration notes. You can also browse the raw spectral data for every device in the device comparison database.
For hands-on detail beyond this roundup, read my RLT Home review, LightPath LED review, and Luminous Labs review.
If you arrived here searching for alternatives to the most-advertised brand in this category, that is the reason this page exists. My critical Joovv review explains what my testing found and why none of the picks below are that brand.
How do you choose the right red light therapy category?
Start with the treatment area, then compare devices built for that job:
- Facial skin only: compare a hands-free LED mask with a small panel. Choose the setup you'll comfortably use at its recommended distance.
- A single joint or travel: a handheld, wrap, or belt covers the target without reserving space for a standing panel.
- Larger body areas: compare panel coverage at your treatment distance, the number of positions per session, and where you'll mount it.
- A smaller budget: buy enough coverage for your target before paying for extra wavelengths or app features.
- Brain PBM or vitamin D: use the separate specialty branch below. A body-panel ranking doesn't establish either use.
Most panels pair red (630-660nm) for skin with near-infrared (810-850nm) for deeper tissue. The best-studied mechanism runs through cytochrome c oxidase in your mitochondria, which absorbs this light (Hamblin 2018).
Controlled trials back specific uses. A 2007 split-face RCT found up to 36% fewer wrinkles and 19% more skin elasticity versus baseline with 633nm and 830nm LEDs, and a 2024 network meta-analysis found low-level light beat sham for knee osteoarthritis pain, though the evidence quality was low.
A larger panel earns its space when you'll treat larger areas regularly. If your goal is limited to your face or one joint, start there. Match the wavelengths and dose to the intended use in the complete benefits guide.
Panel or mask for your face? An LED mask holds the light at a fixed distance, hands-free, but it only treats your face. A panel covers your face and body, so if you'll also use it for recovery, one panel does both jobs.
What is the best full-body red light therapy panel?
A full-body panel is the right buy when you want your whole torso treated in one session. The best full-body panels I've measured land around 70 to 80 mW/cm² at 12 inches (70.75 for RLT Home's ELITE, 78.3 for Vital Red Light's Elite 1.0), so if a spec sheet claims far more at that distance, ask how it was measured.
RLT Home TotalSpectrum MAX: Best full-body panel
- LEDs
- 360
- Wavelengths
- 7 (incl. 480nm blue)
- Coverage
- Full body
- Certifications
- CE, RoHS (manufacturer)
- Warranty
- 3 years + 60-day trial
Best For
- You want a powerful multi-wavelength full-body panel
- You want 7-band coverage including 480nm blue
- You want the wavelength stack of RLT Home's flagship ELITE for less
Skip If
- You need a budget-friendly entry point under $1,000
- You want a compact or portable device
- You prefer a simpler panel without multi-band complexity
Pros
- 360 LEDs across 7 wavelengths
- Includes 480nm blue, which RLT Home pitches for acne-prone skin
- CE and RoHS certified per RLT Home
- 60-day trial + 3-year warranty
Cons
- Premium price point
- Only available direct from manufacturer
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URBAN for 6% offSee every current discount code and sale →
The TotalSpectrum MAX packs 360 LEDs across 7 wavelengths into a single panel. Most competitors max out at 5. That extra range includes a 480nm blue band, which RLT Home pitches for acne-prone skin and most panels skip.
I haven't put my instruments on the MAX itself. It shares the 7-wavelength stack of RLT Home's TotalSpectrum ELITE, which I measured at 70.75 mW/cm² at 12 inches with 0.7 milligauss of EMF and now use as my primary panel. The MAX trades the ELITE's LED count (360 vs 864) and electric stand for a lower price.
The main limitation is size and commitment. It needs a dedicated spot on a door, wall, or stand. RLT Home lists CE and RoHS certification and sells it as a general wellness product, so don't read it as FDA-cleared. For the complete comparison with spectrometer data, see the full-body panel rankings.
What is the best portable red light therapy device?
Portable red light therapy devices trade full-body coverage for targeted precision and travel-friendliness. Spec sheets often quote their output at contact, so compare it with panel figures at the same distance. Some add pulsing modes, though research hasn't settled when pulsing beats continuous light.
Vital Red Light Vital Charge: Best portable red light
- Wavelengths
- 630, 660, 810, 850 nm
- LEDs
- 12
- Battery
- 4+ hours, manufacturer rated
Best For
- You want a portable red light device for travel or on-the-go use
- You need targeted treatment for face, joints, or small areas
- You want an affordable entry point into red light therapy
Skip If
- You need full-body red light coverage
- You want a panel you can mount on a wall or door
- You prioritize maximum irradiance for deep tissue penetration
Pros
- Rechargeable battery rated for 4+ hours
- Four wavelengths in a handheld device
- Built-in timer limits session length
Cons
- Only 12 LEDs limit treatment area to targeted spots
- Not suitable for full-body sessions
- Lacks the pulsing modes and dose-adjustment of larger panels
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URBAN for 11% offThe Vital Charge runs four wavelengths: 630, 660, 810, and 850nm. That covers both red and near-infrared bands, the two ranges with the deepest clinical evidence for skin and tissue repair. Battery lasts 4+ hours on a single charge. That's a full week of 10-minute daily sessions without plugging in.
The rechargeable battery makes the Vital Charge convenient for travel and use away from an outlet. I haven't metered this model, so its battery power isn't a measured low-EMF result.
It is the lowest entry point I would recommend for a multi-wavelength device from a brand I have measured. You give up full-body coverage and get targeted treatment for joints, face, or injuries without committing to a wall panel.
Current pricing sits in the comparison table above. See the complete portable device rankings with testing data.
When should you consider a brain device or UVB lamp?
These are separate purchases for specific goals. A brain helmet targets transcranial PBM; a lamp with UVB adds ultraviolet exposure. Neither is a routine upgrade from a red/NIR body panel. Use the dedicated guides linked below before deciding.
Brain photobiomodulation: a separate, emerging use
Transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) aims near-infrared light at the brain. Most devices use 810nm or 1070nm because near-infrared penetrates tissue better than visible light. Many also pulse at set frequencies intended to nudge brainwave states, an idea that's still being studied.
MitoMIND: Best brain photobiomodulation device
- LEDs
- 256 at 810nm
- Intranasal Option
- 1070nm add-on
- Presets
- 6 brain entrainment programs
- Frequency Range
- 0-20,000Hz
- Session Length
- 6-15 min (preset dependent)
Best For
- Best value 810nm brain PBM with adjustable frequency presets
Skip If
- You want a body panel
- You want established clinical outcomes for this exact helmet
Pros
- Six preset programs
- Adjustable pulsing frequency
- Optional 1070 nm intranasal add-on
Cons
- No device-specific clinical studies yet
- No through-skull irradiance data published
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The MitoMIND runs at 810nm and offers 6 preset programs from 0 to 40Hz, with manual frequency settings up to 20,000Hz. Those are control options, not proof of better focus or recovery.
Its adjustable frequency control gives you more options than a fixed-mode helmet. An optional 1070nm intranasal clip adds a second delivery format; that feature alone doesn't establish a deeper brain dose or better results.
If you're comparing brain devices, start with the dedicated brain PBM guide, where I separate device features from the clinical research behind each option.
UVB and vitamin D: a separate safety decision
UVB lamps serve a different purpose from red/NIR panels and add different safety requirements. Consider that choice separately from skin or recovery coverage.
Mitolux Solar X: Broad spectrum with UVB
- Wavelengths
- 295, 310, 365, 380, 415, 465, 590, 630, 850, 940 nm
- Modes
- 11 across Red/NIR, Sun, Tanning/Bronzing, UVA, and UVB
- Dimensions
- 330 × 180 × 35 mm
- Weight
- 1.62 kg (3.6 lb)
- Peak Power
- 85 W
- Minimum UV Distance
- 15 in (38 cm)
- Warranty
- 2 years
Best For
- You want separate red/NIR and UV modes in one compact lamp
- You will follow the UV safety instructions
Skip If
- You want full-body panel coverage
- You want a device without ultraviolet output
Pros
- My current go-to Mitolux lamp because the 10-wavelength, 11-mode system covers more of the solar spectrum than BTS2
- Dedicated Sun, Tanning, Bronzing, UVA, UVB, and Red/NIR modes make it unusually flexible
- Compact tabletop, door-mount, and VESA-compatible form factor
Cons
- UV exposure adds eye and skin risks
- Compact treatment area
- Check the current preorder and shipping estimate
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URBAN for 10% offThe Solar X combines ten wavelengths across UVB, UVA, visible light, red, and near-infrared, with eleven programs. Its separate red/NIR and UV modes are the practical distinction: you can use the same compact lamp for different sessions without treating every mode as interchangeable.
This is the Mitolux lamp I reach for now. It works on a desk, a door mount, or a VESA arm, so it fits my routine without reserving wall space. My published BTS2 measurements belong to the older lamp; they aren't Solar X test results.
The tradeoffs are its small treatment area and the extra responsibility of UV exposure. Follow the UV instructions, including protective eyewear, keeping your face out of UV modes, and exposure limits. If you want regular red/NIR coverage across your torso, compare the body panels above.
At this update, Mitolux is taking Solar X preorders with a late-November shipping estimate. Check the current delivery date before buying if you need a lamp immediately.
For Canadian readers, Health Canada's UV sunlamp advisory names the older BTS1, LITE, and BTS2 models. It doesn't establish Solar X licensing. Check the exact model before ordering a UV lamp in Canada. My Mitolux review covers my experience with the lineup.
What is the best budget red light therapy device?
Compare budget panels on coverage, documented irradiance at your treatment distance, and the time needed to treat your target area. A single bright spot can make irradiance per dollar look impressive while leaving you to reposition repeatedly. Include the stand, return policy, and warranty in the total cost.
Bestqool Pro200: Best budget red light therapy panel
Is Bestqool Pro200 worth it?
Two hundred dual-chip LEDs at 660nm and 850nm in a modular, expandable frame give budget buyers full-body coverage with built-in cooling fans and a digital timer. It sticks to two wavelengths with no pulsing modes, so 7-band shoppers should look elsewhere.
- Wavelengths
- 660nm, 850nm
- LEDs
- 200
- Size
- Full-body panel
Best For
- Budget-conscious buyers wanting full-body red light coverage without premium pricing
Skip If
- You want multi-wavelength (7-band) coverage, pulsing modes, or premium build quality
Pros
- Full-body coverage
- 200 dual-chip LEDs
- Modular and expandable system
- Built-in cooling fans and digital timer
Cons
- Limited wavelength selection vs premium 7-band panels
- No pulsing modes
- Less established brand than PlatinumLED or Mito Red
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URBAN for 10% offThe Pro200 delivers full-body red and near-infrared coverage with 200 dual-chip LEDs, at a lower price than the premium pick here. It covers the two wavelengths with the most clinical evidence behind them, 660nm red and 850nm near-infrared, and skips the rest.
The modular design lets you daisy-chain multiple units for wider coverage as your budget grows. Built-in cooling fans and a digital timer keep sessions straightforward. No app required. Plug in, set your time, stand in front of it.
You're giving up the multi-band options premium panels offer. For basic red/NIR sessions, compare whether those extra controls would change how you use the panel before paying more for them.
Buy a solid mid-range panel and use it daily rather than saving for premium features you may never switch on. See the complete budget panel rankings and the joint pain guide.
What should you check before buying?
Before ordering, ask for enough information to compare the complete setup:
- Coverage: how much of your target area receives useful output at the distance you'll use, and how many positions will each session require?
- Measurement: what instrument and distance produced the irradiance figures, and is there a map of output across the treatment area?
- Practical setup: does the price include a stand or mount, and will the device fit where you plan to use it?
- Ownership: check the exact model's safety documentation, return terms, warranty, and local support.
Use the published testing and the seller's documentation to make that comparison. Buying professional meters to check one home panel adds cost and work that usually defeats the saving.
Red light therapy device questions & answers
What irradiance should a home red light panel deliver for the best results?
Check irradiance at the distance you’ll use. The best full-body panels I’ve measured land around 70 to 80 mW/cm² at 12 inches, so ask how much higher claims were measured. More isn’t automatically better: a research review describes a biphasic dose response, where lower light levels often work better than higher ones (Huang et al., 2009). Moving closer raises irradiance, so shorten the session.
How many joules do I actually need, and how do I calculate red light dose?
Multiply irradiance (mW/cm²) by time (seconds), then divide by 1,000 to get J/cm². Example: a panel measuring 70 mW/cm² at your distance, run for 600 seconds, delivers 70 × 600 ÷ 1,000 = 42 J/cm². That’s an illustration, not a target. The right dose varies with goal, device, and tissue, and more isn’t automatically better, so start from your manual or the study setup you’re following.
Is pulsed red light therapy better than continuous wave?
Not automatically. Pulsing lets LEDs reach higher peak power with less heat, but research hasn’t settled when pulsed light beats continuous light, and continuous light works well for skin. Its clearest use is in brain devices built around set frequencies, and even there the evidence is early.
Do I need a multi-wavelength red light panel?
You don’t need the longest wavelength list. Choose bands and a dose that fit your intended use: red light is commonly used for skin, while near-infrared is used for deeper targets. More bands and independent controls add options, but don’t establish better results for your goal. Compare the actual spectrum and the relevant study setup.
What’s the difference between ‘FDA-cleared’ and ‘FDA-approved’ red light devices?
They’re different things. FDA clearance covers a specific device and intended use, usually via the 510(k) pathway, so check the exact model and claim. FDA approval is the stricter route for high-risk devices, so be skeptical of a home panel sold as "FDA-approved." "FDA-registered" means less: federal rules (21 CFR 807.39) say registration does not denote approval.
How deep can red and near-infrared light penetrate, and is it enough for muscle or brain?
Less deeply than round numbers online suggest. A light therapy review describes an optical window of roughly 650 to 1200nm where light penetrates tissue best, since blood and melanin absorb blue light far more (Huang et al., 2009). Even in that window, tissue absorbs and scatters light, so the dose drops with depth. For deeper targets, use near-infrared and stay close to the device.
Should I choose a wearable device or a full-body red light therapy panel for my goals?
Buy a full-body panel if you want to cover your whole torso in one session for general recovery and skin, and set session time from its output at your distance. Choose a wearable (wraps, belts, flex pads) or a handheld for travel, a single joint, or spot pain. Choose an LED mask if facial skin is your only goal. If a device says “FDA-cleared,” check that claim for the exact model.
Which red light therapy device should you choose?
Buy for the area you'll use it on: a mask or small panel for facial skin, a handheld or wearable for one area, or a larger panel for regular body sessions. Decide on brain PBM or UVB separately rather than adding either as the next step in a standard protocol.
My own setup: RLT Home's TotalSpectrum ELITE for full-body sessions, plus the Mitolux Solar X, which replaced the BTS2 in my routine for UVB, red, and near-infrared. The LightPath panels are tested but not in my daily rotation. I tested Luminous Labs too, and I no longer recommend the company.
Red light therapy alone won’t work miracles. Most of the benefits accrue over consistent use. If you want the wider context on how I use light, my light therapy articles go through protocols, wavelengths, and the mistakes that cost people results.
Before your first session, run your panel's output at your distance through the light therapy dosing guide so you know how long to stay in front of it.
Thanks for putting together such an informative and high quality post. Red Light Therapy is one of the foundational biohacks for modern living (where we aren’t getting enough natural sunlight) that is unfortunately cost prohibitive for a lot of people. It’s crazy how high the markup is on some of the widely known (Joovv especially) units available. Definitely will consider one of these alternative when I opt for a larger red light unit.
Hey David. Appreciate the words. I completely agree. And it doesn’t have to be as expensive. Let me know if you’d like help deciding for yourself.
Okay, you’ve totally sold me on the benefits of red light! But I’m confused about one thing. You mentioned that if you didn’t already own a Luminousred you’d buy a Platinum. Does that mean you prefer the Platinum?
Thanks!
Happy to hear that you’re interested! Just updated the post to clarify my thoughts. I have and love my Luminousred. Wouldn’t trade it for any of the others. What I meant to say was that I’d go for Platinum LED if LR didn’t exist. Hope that helps 🙂
Yes, very helpful. Can you say more about why you prefer the Lumiousred panel to the Platinum? I’m torn because the the Platinum Biomax boasts 5 wavelengths, and I don’t know if that matters. Is that meaningful in terms of actual function? Or are the extra 3 redundant? Thanks again!
Good question. To address your questions and then why I prefer LR:
5 wavelengths is a trade-off. Most of the proven benefits of RLT come from a few wavelengths (ie 660nm, 850nm infrared). I’m confident that emerging research will eventually discover other benefits from these additional colors. But I’m not sure that they will outweight the popular ones. So the more wavelengths used, the weaker the power of each.
I prefer Luminousred because their technology is unparalleled. From the optimal beam angle, to the dual-LEDs, to the strongest power-to-price ratio. There’s a big problem with accurate power measurement in light therapy. Most companies use (inferior) solar power meters which give artificially high power readings. Meaning the devices themselves are actually weaker than they appear.
I’ve talked to several other owners in the red light therapy industry. They’ve tested Luminousred themselves and vouch that they measure properly (making the power specs accurate).
I wrote a comprehensive Luminousred review of why I ultimately chose them: https://outliyr.com/luminousred-review
Do you own any of these panels and if so have you tested the EMF?
I own the Luminousred Model 2 Pro and have tested it with my Cornet ED88TPlus. At 6″ there’s <0.5mG. At 0" I picked up about 2mG.
The problem that I have with the Louminousred is that it is shorter than the other models. You have to purchase 1 and 2 together to create the same height. At that point, you’re spending almost as much as the Joovv. Also, the Biomax does not include a stand so when you pay an extra $300 for the stand, again, you’re almost paying as much as a Joovv. So I’m not understanding why they are better options than the Joovv.
What is it about the height that matters to you? LR is more powerful. With the added power, you can treat additional areas faster. I personally hung my Model 2 Pro from my standing desk and use it while I work.
Hey Nick,
Thanks for all the great information!
I’ve been going back and forth between Joovv and Mito Red for quite a long time now. You briefly touched on Mito Red’s mobile option, but what are your thoughts on their new MitoPro Series?
Thanks!
Hey Adam. Glad it has been helpful! I haven’t heard much about the MitoPRO. It also has an idea beam angle and multiple wavelengths. I’d like to see them release the irradiance & EMF data, but aside from that, it looks pretty good. I’ll investigate further and write up more about it.
I’ve been looking at the mini Joovv mostly for facial purposes but Joovv isn’t sold in Canada. Is there a brand of RLT that can be purchased in Canada that you recommend?
Hi Barb! Are you looking for a Canada-based company to avoid any additional fees? Many of the options on this list (Luminousred, MitoRed, PlatinumLED, etc) offer international shipping which includes Canada. When I bought my Luminousred panel, despite them being based in Europe, I didn’t pay any additional USA import fees.
Hello Barb
I was looking for the panels online and I found the company based in Canada call The Red Alternative. They ship free even to USA. I purchased Platinum Red Therapy two years ago the biggest panel for $800. I loved it. The only thing that upset me was the price because when I received the panel it came straight from China with the price listed for the panel $300 while I payed $800 for it. The panels sold by this Canadian company look exactly this same like the older models from platinum red therapy company. I wonder if those are this same units and the price for the panel at The red Alternative is way cheaper.
Nick,
I have a dear friend who unfortunately has ALS. He has terrible cramps and pain in his arms and legs. He is pretty much immobile at this point due to the disease. ALS lose the ability to move their body but do not lose sensation. I have been looking for a good brand with red and NIR light therapy that is a belt or something that can be strapped onto my friends arms, legs since he can’t hold anything anymore. He also can’t move around without assistance so the wall panels or devices on stands don’t look like they would work…. I looked to see if Mito had anything in a belt or pad but they don’t…. I’m would spend $500-$600 on a quality device if I thought there was any chance it would help relieve my friends suffering – but haven’t found one yet that looks like it fits the bill. Do you have any suggestions?
Thank you for any information or suggestions you can provide – Louise
Louise,
Sorry to hear that. Hmm, I haven’t heard of any belts specifically. Perhaps something more portable like the FlexBeam would work? I’ll keep my eyes peeled for other options, but that’s all I’ve come across so far.
I hope this helps your friend! Feel free to contact me directly and we can chat via email.
Thank you so much for sharing this top quality research. Have you heard of biolight? if so, how would you rate it? Would you recommend it? https://www.biolight.shop/
Thank you so much
(This product sepcifically: https://www.biolight.shop/product-page/restore-plus)
Hi Nick,
I was wondering if you are familiar with Vielight. If you are what are your thoughts?
Hey. What’s your goal? I am familiar with it and I’ve heard mixed things. It’s well suited to those wanting light to improve cognition and support the brain. It’s expensive because they patented the delivery mechanism. I believe that they’ve stopped producing the current generation too. If you’re looking for systemic benefits, I would go with one of the others.
Hi Nick, I know this is only indirectly related but I’m trying to find an easy way to make a similar array for UV light as for IR. I have bad eczema and have found sunlight helps, and also have gotten recommendations of which lamps to use, I just can’t find a panel and stand that I could easily screw them into. Do you know of any? Thanks!
Hey Michael,
I haven’t used UV lights specifically but happy to help. Can you send a link to the product? The type of the bulbs matters. Also, are these UV-A, UV-B, or UV-C bulbs?
Thanks for the informative, illuminating article!
Is Luminousred still in business? I can’t seem to find it.
Thanks!
Hey Harry! They are. Are you having problems accessing https://luminousred.com/?
Hi Nick! Thank you for writing this. It is INCREDIBLY helpful! My Boyfriend and I are thinking of splitting a red light therapy machine for our shared birthdays in August. We are most interested in the benefits for our brains (Alzheimer’s runs in both of our families) As well as anti-aging of our skin and for various joint pains. Cost is of course also a consideration.
From reading your article, My BF has zeroed in on Luminousred Model 2 Pro, Red Therapy Co’s RedRush 720 and the MitoPRO.
We were wondering, MitoPRO seems to have more spectrums but are they necessary? And have you tested MitoPRO yet? Also, can we use these larger panels for spot treatments? We would love to hear which one you might suggest for us? Thanks Nick!
Hi Sarah, glad to hear it has been helpful! That’s a great idea and one of my primary motivations to use RLT 🙂
Form his selections, I recommend the Luminousred Model 2 Pro, or MitoPRO 750. I personally have the Luminousred and love it. Using it right now, actually! I’ve only looked into the specs and science behind the MitoPRO, so I cannot give my hands-on assessment. The researchers I know in the industry have not yet verified that the Mito really performs as claimed, so there’s that. I like the idea of using multiple spectrums and I suspect that new studies will come up validating the other wavelengths. This would more closely mimic natural light. So I actually lean towards Mito (if they are honest about the output listed). They also have a 60-day trial period.
You can use large panels for spot treatments! I do that. Some devices are constructed to cram more LEDs into a smaller space and, most important, angle (concentrate) the light beam accordingly. Large panels aren’t as optimal for spot treatments, but they do work.
Hope that helps and I am not too late for your birthday!
Hi Nick, I was wondering about the angle of light beams..how important is that?one of the companies says 90 degrees. My primary use with b e on my face.Thanks for your help!
Hi Brooke! Angle determines the concentration of the light. Too wide, and some of the light rays won’t hit your body. Too narrow, and you’re only spot targeting a very specific part of the body. But if you’re just focusing on one particular place, such as your face, 90 degrees should be great!
I recently purchased a Hooga 500 Panel. After reading these reviews not sure if I should use the unit. Have you heard anything negative about hooga 500 specifically?
Hi! I haven’t. As I mentioned, it wouldn’t be one of my first choices. Even though it flickers and has some other issues, the Hooga probably is still a net benefit. Just hard to say how much.
Hey Nick, thanks for this great info! I’ve been looking at different options for red light therapy at home and was looking solely at Joovv, mostly because it’s talked about a lot. The cost for a full body set up is pretty high though and I think you’re paying for brand more than quality. So, my question is if you had to choose between the Luminous Red Model 2+2 Duo ($3499) and the Platinum LED 2X BIOMAX 900 + 900 ($4885) which one would you choose? Any insight is appreciated! Thanks!
Hey Brent! Glad you found it helpful. Yeah, unfortunately the price of quality panels is still quite high. What exactly are you looking for in a red light system? Personally, I lean more towards a Lightpath LED setup. Great value, especially when on sale. Fantastic build quality and some unique features. Otherwise, I would probably pick the Luminousred Model 2+2 Duo. They’ve upgraded their tech and design since I bought mine, it’s newer than Platinum.
Your review do not make sense. In your review for luminous red you state no other panels feature dual LEDs, but the review for the lightpath panel indicates that it too has dual LEDs.
Hey Sue! Appreciate you pointing that out. I wrote this post originally back around 2020-2021. I did buy Luminousred and still have and use it. Recently, I also picked up a LightpathLED panel. It also has dual LEDs. Forgot to update the Luminousred review. Sorry about that.
any thoughts on joovv-no phone contact only email
Hi Carol!
I’m not a big fan of JOOVV. Even though just about every influencer hypes them up to be the best. If you’re asking about their support, I can’t speak to that much. For a company of their size, I am a bit surprised, though, to hear that they don’t offer phone support.
Would using a red incandescent heat bulb (like the ones in the SaunaSpace sauna) work to provide some therapeutic infrared and red light? I have used one of their bulbs near my desk in the past, but not sure if it is doing enough to be worth it, especially since I live in Arizona and it can increase my electric bill due to the need for more air conditioning. They put out a lot of heat and also have a very broad spectrum of wavelengths.
Yes! Depends on the particular bulb and the wavelengths that it emits. A lot of the really cheap ones put out mainly heat. You want to find the ones that put out red, near infrared, and perhaps even mid-infrared. The other approach is to use a low-powered one and to make sure you’re close enough, but not too close that you burn.