Chroma Ironforge Review: Innovative Red Light Device

If you’re looking for a handheld red light therapy device that packs a serious punch, the Chroma Ironforge might be just what you’re looking for.

Marketed as having the power output of a regular red light therapy panel but compressed into the size of a brick, this device has undoubtedly caught the attention of many. But how powerful is it? What’s it like to use? And after spending a week or two with it, what are my thoughts? Let’s dive in and find out.

Product Overview

The Chroma Ironforge is a handheld red light therapy device about the size of a brick. It’s the second edition of this product from Chroma, a company founded by Michael Traperio

What sets Ironforge apart is its unique design. This product looks completely different, unlike regular red light therapy panels or LED devices. Everything about it is new and innovative, from chips to cables.

Key Features:

1. Powerful output rivaling full-sized panels
2. Compact, brick-like size (3.5" x 3.5" x 6")
3. Unique, industrial design
4. Corded for consistent power (not battery-operated)
5. Heavy-duty carry case included
6. Weight: Under 2 pounds

Power and Performance

The Ironforge’s standout feature is undoubtedly its power output. Designed for deep penetration into joints and tissues, this device allows for shorter treatment times than traditional panels.

Wavelengths and LED Configuration:

• 150 LED chips
• 80% emit 850nm near-infrared light
• 20% emit 670nm red light

This combination of wavelengths, particularly the high percentage of near-infrared LEDs, makes the Ironforge excellent for deep tissue penetration. The red light component ensures you’re still getting benefits closer to the skin’s surface.

Power Output:

Let’s fire up my spectrometer.

I measured:

• At 6 inches: Peak of 158 mW/cm²
• At 1 inch: Over 500 mW/cm²
• Average across 9 points: 148 mW/cm²

To put these numbers in perspective, many full-sized panels struggle to reach 100 mW/cm² at 6 inches. The Ironforge’s ability to deliver over 500 mW/cm² at close range is impressive.

I also conducted a fun experiment to test light penetration through my hand. Remarkably, the spectrometer detected near-infrared light (and a tiny bit of red) passing through, demonstrating the device’s ability to reach deep tissues.

Using the Ironforge

Chroma recommends moving the Ironforge slowly and brushing it across the body to use it effectively. This technique prevents thermal buildup and potential burns while allowing you to treat larger areas effectively.

While it’s primarily designed for targeted treatment, you can still use the Ironforge for full-body sessions by moving it across different body parts. A 10-15-minute session might cover your entire body.

The device’s high power output means you can achieve therapeutic doses in much shorter times compared to lower-powered devices. This makes it particularly appealing for busy individuals or those treating multiple areas.

EMF and Sound

The Ironforge showed no electric field readings, which is excellent—a small magnetic field at 6 inches (0.23 microtesla). While the magnetic field falls into the orange category, it’s still relatively low and shouldn’t concern most users.

One downside is the noise level. When running, the device emits about 71 decibels because of its large fans needed to dissipate heat. While it’s not the most pleasant sound, it’s a trade-off for the device’s power output.

Price and Value

The Chroma Ironforge retails for USD 1099, but my discount code, ALEX, brings it down to $989. Shipping is free within the US and around $30 internationally.

The value per watt of therapeutic light costs about $86 per watt at 6 inches or $25 per watt at 1 inch. While this is higher than many panel-style devices, it’s important to remember that the Ironforge serves a different purpose with its targeted, high-power output.

Pros:

1. Exceptional Power Output: The Ironforge delivers unprecedented power for a consumer-grade device, with readings of over 500 mW/cm² at 1 inch. This high power allows for deep tissue penetration, making it especially effective for joint problems, connective tissue issues, and potentially even brain health applications.
2. Shorter Treatment Times: because of its high power output, you can achieve therapeutic doses in much less time than with a traditional panel. This makes it ideal for busy individuals or those treating multiple areas.
3. Robust Build Quality: Despite its somewhat industrial appearance, the Ironforge is well-constructed with high-quality materials. It feels solid and sturdy!

1. Excellent Light Coverage: With 150 LED chips packed into a small area, the device provides consistent light distribution across its surface. This ensures uniform treatment and maximizes the effective treatment area.
2. Portability: While not the lightest device, its compact size makes it an excellent option for travel or gym use. It’s much more portable than full-sized panels, delivering comparable or superior power.

1. Versatility: Although it is designed for targeted treatment, it can also be used for full-body sessions by moving it across different areas. This makes it a versatile tool for various treatment needs.

Cons:

1. Lack of Built-in Timer: The absence of a timer or interval beeper makes it challenging to track treatment duration for specific areas. Given the high power output and the need to move the device frequently, this feature would have been handy.
2. Inconvenient Power Switch Location: The on/off switch is located close to the wall plug rather than on the device itself, which can be problematic during use.
3. Difficulty with Hard-to-Reach Areas: its design makes it challenging to use in areas like the mid-back without help.

1. Noise Level: The device operates at around 71 decibels, which is loud. While this is a consequence of its powerful output and necessary cooling system, it might be disruptive for some users.
2. Limited Warranty and Return Period: In this price range, a product's one-year warranty and 30-day return period are short, which might concern some potential buyers.
3. Price Point: At $989 after the discount, it’s a significant investment. While the power output justifies the cost, it’s still more expensive than many full-sized panels.
4. High Heat: Because of its high power output, leaving the device in one place for too long can cause burns. Users should be cautious and follow the recommended “brushing” technique.
5. EMF Considerations: While the EMF levels aren’t alarmingly high, they might concern those sensitive to electromagnetic fields.

Should You Buy It?

The Chroma Ironforge is an excellent choice for:

1. Individuals dealing with deep tissue or joint issues
2. Athletes looking for targeted, high-intensity treatment
3. Frequent travelers who need a portable, powerful red light therapy solution
4. Those who value treatment speed will pay for shorter session times

However, a mask or panel-style device might better serve you if you’re primarily interested in skin-level treatments or prefer longer full-body sessions.

Other Alternatives

When considering the Chroma Ironforge, it’s essential to look at other options in the market. Here are some alternatives mentioned in the transcript:

1. Medical-Grade Devices:
   • Thor Laser Tabletop Setup (mention Alex Fergus for a potential discount): This is a high-end option designed for practitioners. It costs between $10,000 and $15,000, significantly more expensive than the Ironforge and likely out of reach for most consumers.
2. Medical Lasers:
   • These devices can be even more potent than the Ironforge but come with a hefty price tag. They often require specialized training to use and may have potential downsides. Unlike the Ironforge, they typically have a smaller treatment area.
3. Smaller Handheld Devices:
   • Kineon Move Plus Pro: This device combines lasers and LEDs. It’s designed for joint treatment and is about half the price of the Ironforge. However, it has less power and a smaller treatment area than the Ironforge.

1. Full-Sized Panels:
   • Consider getting a full-sized wall panel if you’re looking for a similar price range (900-1000). Panels containing approximately 300 LEDs typically cost more than $1000. These are great for full-body treatments but may not provide the same targeted, high-power output as the Ironforge.
2. Biomax 900:
   • I have a quad BioMax 900 setup, an example of a high-end panel setup. While excellent for full-body treatments, it serves a different purpose than the targeted approach of the Ironforge.

The Ironforge occupies a unique position in the market, offering a combination of portability and high power output that isn’t commonly found in other consumer-grade devices. The transcript suggests that for many users, the Ironforge could complement rather than replace other red light therapy tools, such as full-body panels.

Conclusion

The Chroma Ironforge is a unique and powerful handheld red light therapy device. While it comes with a higher price tag and some minor inconveniences, its unparalleled power output and portability make it a strong contender in the market, especially for those seeking deep tissue benefits or a travel-friendly option.

Before deciding, check out my other reviews and options in the red light therapy space.

Items Mentioned In This Article

• Get a Chroma Ironforge here: https://aferg.co/chroma-ironforge - discount code ALEX saves
• Get a Chroma D-Light for vitamin D creation here: https://aferg.co/chroma-vitamin-d - discount code ALEX saves
• Get a Chroma Sky Portal for daytime wakefulness and mood-boosting effects here: https://aferg.co/chroma-sky-portal - discount code ALEX saves
• For a Move+ Pro from Kineon, use discount code AFERGUSMOVE+ for 10% off and the following link: https://aferg.co/kineon -
• For the THOR Lasers website, check: https://aferg.co/thor Mention ALEX

Consider These YouTube Videos As Well:

• Targeted Red Light Treatment = Full-Body Benefits?
• How To Choose A Red Light Therapy Device: COMPLETE Guide
• The BEST Portable Red Light Device: ULTIMATE Battle!
• Lightpath LED Torch Review: Innovative Spot-Treatment?!

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Alex Fergus wrote this blog post. Alex is an ISSN Sports Nutrition Specialist, Fitness Professional, and certified Superhuman Coach who continues to expand his knowledge base and help people worldwide with their health and wellness. Alex is recognized as the National Record Holder in Powerlifting and Indoor Rowing and has earned the title of the Australian National Natural Bodybuilding Champion. Having worked as a health coach and personal trainer for over a decade, Alex now researches all things health and wellness and shares his findings on this blog.