Best Hot Tub Reviews

Updated January 7, 2021

Home spa nights are a sweet idea.

But when it ends with you running around trying to find anything to resemble an in-house spa experience the night quickly becomes more of a hassle than a pleasure.

A hot tub spa is the ideal opulent problem solver when you need a fast, relaxing and high-quality spa night at home.

They’re also excellent purchases for parties or gatherings with friends.

It can seem like a difficult purchase to make, but an inflatable home hot tub eases you into the game.

We have covered 5 different hot tub reviews alongside a buying guide to give you some more in-depth information to consider when making your choice!

See Our Best Hot Tubs

#PREVIEWProduct
1 MSPA Alpine D-AL04 Delight Portable Inflatable 2+2 Bubble Spa Hot Tub MSPA Alpine D-AL04 Inflatable Hot Tub
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2 Lay-Z-Spa Vegas Hot Tub, Airjet Inflatable Spa
Best For Low Budgets
Lay-Z-Spa Airjet Vegas Inflatable Hot Tub
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3 Intex Pure Spa Plus - 4 Person Bubble Therapy Hot Tub
Best Overall
Intex Pure Spa Plus Hot Tub
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4 Coleman SaluSpa 4 Person Square Portable Inflatable Outdoor Hot Tub Spa Coleman SaluSpa Square Inflatable Hot Tub
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5
Best For Higher Budgets
5Lay-Z-Spa Maldives Luxury Hot Tub
Lay-Z-Spa Maldives Luxury Hot Tub
Best For Higher Budgets
Lay-Z-Spa Maldives Luxury Hot Tub
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1. MSPA Alpine D-AL04 Inflatable Hot Tub

Highlights
  • Rhino-Tech reinforced PVC.
  • Includes a safety buckle.
  • 108 air jets.
  • Self-inflating remote control.

This black and silver MSPA Alpine model includes a range of fun and safe features creating the ultimate home-spa feel in your garden.

Firstly, the materials are top-notch. The tub itself is crafted from Rino-Tech reinforced PVC.

The purpose of this is to prevent accidental punctures and help the tub to withstand natural elements. \

Furthermore, the cover includes a desiccated safety buckle to connect it to the base of the tub.

The square-shape tub includes 108 individual air jets, strategically placed to massage your body. These can easily be adjusted with the included remote control.

The same remote also functions to self-inflate the tub, adjust the temperature and activate the heating system.

Lastly, this hot tub includes anti-icing technology and the material is antibacterial.

Specifications

Size:
158 x 158 x 68 cm
Weight:
24 kg
Material:
PVC
Wattage:
2100 W

Pros

  • Temperature adjusts options.
  • Preset heating timer.
  • Super quiet technology.
  • Anti-icing technology.

Cons

  • The pool only has a 6-month warranty.
  • It’s quite shallow.

2. Lay-Z-Spa Airjet Vegas Inflatable Hot Tub

Highlights
  • Fits 4 to 6 people at one time.
  • Suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
  • Includes a water filtration system.
  • Includes a digital display panel.
Best For Low Budgets
Lay-Z-Spa Vegas Hot Tub, Airjet Inflatable Spa

With its own water filtration system, the Lay Z hot tub is the ideal hygienic option for home use.

It fits up to 6 people at one time while also being suitable for personal use.

The filtration system is attached to the outside of the tub and ensures the water is kept clean at all times.

On the side of the model, there is a handy digital display system. It features several buttons allowing you to adjust the temperature, the timer and the AirJet massage system.

The tub includes 87 powerful air jets to gently massage your skin.

Furthermore, it includes a pool liner and a pool cover to keep unwanted elements out. Setting up this hot tub takes just 10 minutes too.

Unfortunately, this model does not include a separate and detachable remote and must instead be controlled from the external panel.

This can be a little difficult to do while you are inside the tub.

Specifications

Size:
196 x 196 x 61 cm
Weight:
34.3 kg
Material:
PVC

Pros

  • Timer system.
  • Includes a pool liner.
  • Heats up to 40 degrees.
  • Quick setup.

Cons

  • It’s heavier than other models.
  • It doesn’t include a remote.

3. Intex Pure Spa Plus Hot Tub

Highlights
  • Includes inflatable headrests.
  • Built-in water treatment system.
  • Includes an LED spa light.
  • 140 powerful jets.
Best Overall
Intex Pure Spa Plus - 4 Person Bubble Therapy Hot Tub

This luxe blue and white-hot tub really brings a spa-like feel to your home.

It includes inflatable headrests at the sides of the pool, as well as a cool, LED spa light to colour the water.

To keep the water clean, this hot tub includes an integrated water treatment system. It works to soften hard water and keep it easier on your skin, reducing the effect it could have on skin conditions.

Two replacement filters are also included.

The luxurious spa experience is increased by powerful water jets.

The inside of the tub has 140 individual jets to create luxurious bubbles that will gently massage your skin.

Additionally, the side of this tub features a digital control panel, allowing you to adjust the internet water settings.

This includes temperature, power and water jets.

Due to its multitude of features, this hot tub is pretty heavy weighing over 40 kilograms before filling with water.

Therefore, it may not be the most ideal option to transport.

Specifications

Size:
70 x 50 x 50 cm
Weight:
41 kg
Material:
Polyester

Pros

  • Digital control panel.
  • Easy to transport.
  • Includes a protective cover.
  • Strong Fiber-Tech materials.

Cons

  • It’s heavy.
  • Smaller dimensions than some other models.

4. Coleman SaluSpa Square Inflatable Hot Tub

Highlights
  • Includes a repair kit.
  • Power saving system.
  • External water filtration system.
  • Filled with 114 jets.

This super portable hot tub comfortable seats 4 people. It includes a carry bag and a fairly compact design, allowing you to bring it with you anywhere.

To save power, this hot tub also includes a dedicated system. It will automatically start or stop until the desired temperature is reached.

The outer control panel also allows you to conveniently adjust the temperature at any time, as well as the 114 bubble jets.

Furthermore, it includes an external filtration system to keep the water clean at all times. The reinforced upper
The cover ensures the water won’t get damaged by natural elements when it’s not in use.

This cover includes safety lock clips to prevent anyone or anything from getting inside when not desired.

The few downsides of this model are that it does not include light for the water incase of dark conditions, and it does not feature the same high number of jets as some others on the market.

Specifications

Size:
71 x 28 x 71 inches
Weight:
45 kg
Material:
TriTech

Pros

  • Reinforced cover.
  • Digital display.
  • Adjustable temperature.
  • Includes a chemical floater.

Cons

  • It does not include a light.
  • Not as many air jets as other models.

5. Lay-Z-Spa Maldives Luxury Hot Tub

Highlights
  • Includes a foot massager.
  • Inflatable seating.
  • Includes AquaGlow lighting.
  • Luxury massage system.
Best For Higher Budgets
Lay-Z-Spa Maldives Luxury Hot Tub

This Maldives edition from Lay-Z takes things up a notch with the additional features of this luxury hot tub.

The model includes a foot massager at the base of the tub and inflatable seating for the ultimate home relaxation experience.

Plus, it includes special AquaGlow lighting to illuminate the tub even at night.

The entire hot tub includes 8 HydroJets plus 140 AirJets to gently massage your body while producing endless water bubbles.

It’s a super-fast model to set up thanks to the included pump.

The pump is attached to a power source and will then inflate the pool for you within 5 minutes. It’s an ideal option for parties or nights at home.

Due to its easy portability, it can also be transported.

This model fits 5 to 7 people at one time and helps you to stay steady on your feet thanks to the cushioned base.

The pre-set timer also allows you to get it ready in advance.

Bear in mind that this model is fairly large due to its high capacity and will not be suited to smaller gardens.

Specifications

Size:
2.01m x 80cm
Weight:
1,118 kg (when full)
Material:
TriTech

Pros

  • Speedy setup.
  • A pump is included.
  • Cushioned floor.
  • Includes an energy-saving timer.

Cons

  • It may be too large for some gardens.
  • Does not include replacement filters.

Hot Tub Buying Guide

Design

The design of your new hot tub is an area to keep in mind – especially considering that money you’ll spend and the likelihood that friends and family will want to come over to see and use your new home spa setup!

Traditional hot tub designs have always been circular, however, recently we have started to see a few different shapes on the market. 

Square hot tubs have become increasingly popular due to their spaces out design, making them ideal for friends and family rather than couples who want to stay closer together.

Design aspects also consider the colours, features and setup of the hot tub. 

For example, some are designed to self inflate, such as the MSPA Alpine whereas most other models require an additional pump. 

Although the colourings of a hot tub are not a deal-breaker, if you live in a particularly rainy or windy climate, you may want to avoid a white coloured design as it will stain easily! 

Darker colours like blue and black will resist natural elements far better.

Capacity & Size

Hot tubs always state on their synopsis their dimensions and the number of people that can comfortably fit inside at one time. This is crucial to check before purchasing. 

Small hot tubs are the perfect option for average-sized gardens or even rooftops. To put it into perspective, these usually measure the size of two bathtubs. 

On the other hand, we have also featured several larger hot tubs, such as the Lay-Z Maldives version that can sit up to 7 people at one time!

When choosing your hot tub size, consider the number of people you expect to have in it at one time and the space you have available in your home for it. 

Temperature

The warm waters that a hot tub provides is probably one of the most relaxing factors they have to offer, as well as the bubbles. 

You will have seen above that hot tubs generally warm up to around 40 degrees Celsius, or 104 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Being surrounded by hot water helps your muscles to truly relax, while the steam helps to relax your mind and clear any congestion. 

Much like a steam room that you would find at a spa.

Higher-end hot tubs will usually include a temperature control panel or a separate remote. Even better, some models will allow you to preset the temperature so it’s perfect when you get in! 

Many hot tubs also remove the ability to heat it higher than the maximum temperature as it can be detrimental to health, especially for younger children.

Portability

The beauty of inflatable hot tubs is that they double as portable hot tubs thanks to their lightweight and compact sizes when they are deflated. 

Whether or not they are easy to transport depends on their weight and their size when deflated – many versions also include a dedicated carrying bag or case.

You may have noticed in our review section that most hot tubs can be quite heavy, ranging between 25 kilograms, all the way up to 45 kilograms when it’s not filled with water. 

To make the tub as easy as possible to transport, try and make note of the way it is packed when it arrives, then you can ensure to fold it in the exact same way when wanting to transport it. 

Plus, make sure that it is fully dry when you want to move it as the water can increase the weight!

Hot Tub Cover

Although the hot tub itself will be the most important part of your mind, it’s important to look out for extra features such as the hot tub cover too. 

The purpose of a cover is vast. Firstly, it’s a great way to keep the heat inside the water while you are getting ready to use it. 

Secondly, the cover can help to keep the internal water dirt-free when it’s not in use by trapping out external factors like trees and mud. 

Lastly, the cover is a very important addition for homes with young children. It can keep the hot tub closed and inaccessible for little ones. As well as a cover, look out for additional safety clips that secure it in place.

Pricing Range

When making any luxury purchase, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the pricing range between different models. 

Prices of hot tubs we have features tend to stay around the 600-pounds mark, with some of the best value hot tubs at the lower end. 

The price can be dependent on a few key factors. First and foremost, the size of the hot tub will determine a huge portion of the price. 

Larger tubs with more materials will cost more. 

Secondly, the materials used in the hot tub will affect the price. 

For example, innovative plastics like TriTech used with the Lay-Z tubs will cost more than traditional PVC hot tubs. 

Although it may seem unnecessary to purchase a more expensive tub purely based on the materials, it will do you better in the long run due to a lack of punctures.

Next, the number and variety of water jets will alter the price. A high number of jets, particularly more powerful ones, will ramp up the price of a new hot tub. 

If the hot tub is smaller, remember that the number of jets will naturally be lower too.

Lastly, extra features like inflatable headrests and foot massagers can drastically increase the price of your new hot tub. 

If you are looking to splash the cash we seriously recommend going for the Lay-Z-Spa Maldives Luxury version which we have rated “Top of the Range”.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How Much Does It Cost To Run a Hot Tub?
A:

The cost of running a hot tub includes a few components: the water, the electricity and the filter costs or costs for chlorine that you will have to purchase regularly.

The cost per kilowatt of electricity in your location will also affect how much you are spending.

Hot tubs do require a significant amount of power to run due to their large size, however, modern manufacturing companies have created far more innovative designs to keep costs as low as possible.

If you are concerned about cost, make sure to look for features that save on electricity, such as automatically switching off when the desired temperature has been reached.

Larger hot tubs will, of course, cost more to keep running due to higher water capacities.

Finally, the materials that your hot tub is made from will greatly affect the amount of electricity it needs. Well-insulated tubs with specific heat-retaining materials will remove the need to constantly heat up the water inside the tub.

Q: Can You Use a Hot Tub When Pregnant?
A:

Most doctors and physicians recommend against using hot tubs when pregnant due to their high heat. It is always best to check with your doctor first.

Q: Where Can I Buy a Hot Tub?
A:

A stand-alone hot tub can often be purchased online or in a showroom. However, the convenient inflatable hot tubs we have featured above can simply be purchased on Amazon – completely stress-free!

Our Verdict

Your new at-home spa experience is so much closer! With luck, you’ll now be feeling far more educated on the world of the best hot tubs, or maybe even keener to get your hands on one as soon as possible.

Basic hot tubs include the warm waters and bubble jets, but now we have covered brands that take the level of luxury even further with headrests, adjustable temperatures and even foot massagers.

Some of the most important factors to look out for first are the size, the cost and the durability of the materials.

Your house parties, friends dinner nights and even after-work relaxation will be taken to a whole new level now.

If you’re stuck for choice, go for our “Best Overall” rated model, the Intex Pure Spa Plus Hot Tub!

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