Red light therapy (RLT) has gained significant popularity in recent years as a non-invasive treatment for skin health, pain relief, muscle recovery, and even hair growth. With so many devices flooding the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.
One such device is the Orion Red Light Therapy panel. While it has some positive reviews, after extensive research and personal testing, I’ve concluded that I wouldn’t buy this red light therapy device—and here’s why.
In this in-depth review, I’ll break down:
- What red light therapy is and its benefits
- Key features of the Orion Red Light Therapy device
- Pros and cons based on real user experiences
- Why I believe there are better alternatives
- Critical factors to consider before buying a red light therapy device
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether the Orion Red Light Therapy panel is worth your investment—or if you should look elsewhere.
What Is Red Light Therapy?
Before diving into the Orion device, let’s briefly cover what red light therapy is and why people use it.
How Red Light Therapy Works
Red light therapy (RLT), also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation (PBM), uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared (NIR) light to penetrate the skin and stimulate cellular repair.
The primary mechanisms include:
- Boosting ATP production (energy for cells)
- Reducing inflammation
- Increasing collagen production (for skin rejuvenation)
- Enhancing blood circulation
- Accelerating muscle recovery
Common Uses of Red Light Therapy
People use RLT for:
- Skin Health – Reducing wrinkles, acne, and scars.
- Pain Relief – Helping with joint pain, arthritis, and muscle soreness.
- Hair Growth – Stimulating follicles to reduce hair loss.
- Wound Healing – Speeding up recovery from injuries.
- Mood & Sleep – Some evidence suggests it may help with seasonal depression and circadian rhythm regulation.
Given these benefits, it’s no surprise that many are investing in at-home red light therapy devices. But not all devices are created equal.
Orion Red Light Therapy: Overview
Orion is one of many brands offering red light therapy panels. Their device claims to deliver medical-grade wavelengths for optimal benefits.
Key Features of the Orion Red Light Therapy Device
- Wavelengths: Delivers both red light (660nm) and near-infrared (850nm), which are considered optimal for tissue penetration.
- Power Output: Advertised as high-powered for deeper penetration.
- Size & Coverage: Comes in different sizes, with larger panels covering more body area.
- Ease of Use: Designed for home use with a stand or wall-mount option.
- Price Point: Mid-range compared to competitors like Joovv or PlatinumLED.
At first glance, this seems like a solid option. However, several factors make me hesitant to recommend it.
Why I Wouldn’t Buy the Orion Red Light Therapy Device
After testing and researching, here are the main drawbacks that make me question its value.
1. Questionable Power Density (Irradiance)
One of the most critical factors in red light therapy is irradiance (measured in mW/cm²). This determines how much light energy actually reaches your cells.
- Orion’s irradiance claims are vague. Some users report that it doesn’t feel as powerful as higher-end brands.
- Lower irradiance means longer treatment times—sometimes 20-30 minutes per area, which is inconvenient.
- Competitors like Joovv and Mito Red Light provide verified irradiance data, making them more trustworthy.
2. Lack of Third-Party Testing & Certifications
Many premium red light therapy brands submit their devices for independent testing to validate their claims.
- Orion does not prominently display FDA-cleared status or third-party lab results.
- Some users question whether the wavelengths are accurately calibrated.
- Without verified testing, it’s hard to confirm if the device is truly effective.
3. Build Quality & Durability Concerns
Several customers have reported:
- Cheap-feeling materials compared to more robust brands.
- Flimsy stands or mounting options that don’t feel secure.
- LEDs burning out prematurely, raising questions about longevity.
For a device that costs hundreds (or thousands) of dollars, durability matters.
4. Customer Service & Warranty Issues
A recurring complaint in Orion reviews is poor customer support:
- Slow response times for troubleshooting.
- Warranty claims being denied for unclear reasons.
- Difficulty getting replacements for defective units.
When investing in a medical-grade device, reliable customer service is a must.
5. Better Alternatives Available
For a similar (or slightly higher) price, you can get:
- Mito Red Light – More transparent irradiance data, better build quality.
- Vellgus Red Light V2 Series – Higher power density, FDA-registered.
Given these options, Orion doesn’t stand out as the best choice.
Who Might Still Consider Orion?
Despite these concerns, some users may find Orion suitable if:
- They want a budget-friendly option (though there are better budget picks).
- They don’t need medical-grade intensity.
- They’re okay with longer session times due to lower irradiance.
However, for serious users seeking optimal results, I’d recommend looking elsewhere.
What to Look for in a Red Light Therapy Device
If you’re shopping for an RLT panel, here’s what matters most:
- Wavelengths – 660nm (red) and 850nm (NIR) are ideal.
- Irradiance (Power Density) – At least 50-100 mW/cm² for efficient treatments.
- Coverage Area – Larger panels treat more body parts at once.
- FDA Clearance – Indicates medical-grade reliability.
- Build Quality & Warranty – Should last years, not months.
- Customer Reviews & Reputation – Look for consistent positive feedback.
Final Verdict: Is Orion Red Light Therapy Worth It?
Pros:
- Includes both red & NIR wavelengths.
- More affordable than some premium brands.
- Suitable for basic home use.
Cons:
- Unclear irradiance data.
- Build quality concerns.
- Poor customer service reputation.
- Better alternatives available.
My Recommendation: Skip It
While Orion isn’t the worst option, its lack of verified performance data, durability issues, and subpar customer support make it a risky buy.
For a similar price, brands like Mito Red Light or PlatinumLED offer better power, transparency, and reliability.
If you’re serious about red light therapy, invest in a proven device—it’s worth the extra cost for real results.
Have You Tried Orion? Share Your Experience!
Have you used the Orion Red Light Therapy panel? Did it work for you, or did you encounter problems? Let’s discuss in the comments!
