While stationary models may cost $1500 and more, the Internet is full of beneficial offers for budget inflatable hot tubs. What is the best hot tub under $1000? Are they worth investment? Can they give us what we need?
To answer all these questions, we will scrutinize five best-selling models – Coleman SaluSpa Green & White, Coleman SaluSpa Miami, Intex PureSpa 75 Inch, Coleman SaluSpa Hawaii, and Coleman SaluSpa 4 Person. Stay with us to get the truth about budget hot tubs and choose the right option!
Main Differences Between the Models
All inflatable hot tubs, even by different brands, share the same basic characteristics in their core. However, we managed to highlight several crucial distinguishing features that can influence your choice:
- All five models come with multi-functional pumps. However, while the four Coleman tubs use one pump with 320 gals/h flow rate, the only Index PureSpa is equipped with a more powerful pump for 460 gals/h.
- Another essential difference is the lack of the Power Saving Timer in the Intex PureSpa. You cannot set the heating timer on its pump like the users’ of the Colemans can do.
- The next striking difference is the tubs’ sizes. Coleman SaluSpa Green & White and Intex PureSpa are designed for 6 people. The other three models can contain from 2 to a maximum of 4 people. Consequently, their dimensions and water capacity also significantly differ, which will be discussed later.
- The number of jets varies in each tub. There are 114, 60, 170, 114, and 60 jets. Besides, only the first two models, i.e., Coleman SaluSpa Green & White and Intex PureSpa, allow users to control the jet flow and adjust it according to their preferences.
- Coleman Hawaii hot tub is the only inflatable model of square shape. Other products are round.
- You can find a lot of differences in the tubs’ kits. They will also be listed later.
Comparison table of budget hot tubs under $1000
1. Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub Spa Green & White – Best Affordable Hot Tub
Budget inflatable hot tubs may offer much more useful functions than one can imagine. So, Coleman SaluSpa is bright proof.
Dimensions of the model are designed to contain from 4 to 6 people. Apart from the capaciousness, you can also be sure of its durability thanks to Tritech fortified wall materials resistant to pressure and punctures.
The tub provides all necessary water treatment procedures such as primary filtration and cleaning with dual cartridge and a chemconnect dispenser and even heating. The latter is performed by a multi-functional pump that can inflate the tub and heat the water to 104 degrees.
Users can also control the temperature, AirJet system intensity, and set 72 hours heating timer.
The manufacturer also adds a lock-clipped pool cover for water protection and insulation.
The only things we regret are the lack of extremely useful ground cloth and rather weak filters. The cloth would provide additional heat retention and bottom protection, while better sand filters would cope with fine dirt and avoid clogs.
All in all, the model meets every user’s requirement, especially for its money. And if you worry about electricity bills, we highly recommend trying this timer-running hot tub.
- suitable for 4-6 people
- puncture-resistant Tritech material
- durable beam construction
- multi-functional pump
- easy temperature regulation
- adjustable jet flow
- Power Saving Timer for 72 hours
- Coleman SaluSpa cover
- two cartridge filters and a chemconnect dispenser
- a built-in drain valve
- handles for easy transportation
- quick installation
- Power Saving Timer requires regular temperature resetting
- no ground cloth
- regular filter cleaning
2. Bestway SaluSpa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub – Best Hot Tub for Small Companies
Smaller companies and couples would love the next model of our review – SaluSpa Miami hot tub designed for 2 to 4 people.
In a short word, this tub literally repeats all advantages of the previous product except for smaller dimensions, the number of bubble jets, and price.
Here, you’ll see the same beam construction and Tritech materials. As usual, water is heated by an included pump. An easy digital display allows you to set temperature from 68 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit and change heating timer. The intensity of the bubble massage is also under your control.
The pump can also inflate the tub and filter water with its built-in two cartridges. To crown it all, let’s mention that the kit includes the same chemconnect dispenser and insulation cover.
Though the tub repeats all pros and cons of its brother, we can distinguish one useful change. Smaller dimensions and water volume need less energy for heating.
Thus, the product will be a worthy investment for customers on a budget worrying about their energy consumption.
- for 2-4 people
- puncture-resistant Tritech material
- durable beam construction
- multi-functional pump
- easy temperature regulation
- adjustable jet flow
- Power Saving Timer for 72 hours
- SaluSpa cover
- two cartridge filters and a chemconnect dispenser
- a built-in drain valve
- handles for easy transportation
- quick installation
- more energy-saving
- Power Saving Timer requires regular temperature resetting
- no ground cloth
- regular filter cleaning
3. Intex PureSpa 75 Inch Inflatable Hot Tub – Best Hot Tub for Massage
Though Intex is mostly known as a company that produces inflatable pools and pool equipment, it has an excellent range of inflatable hot tubs to offer. Intex PureSpa is a nice budget option, which stands on the same stage with Coleman models and shares a significant part of characteristics.
The tub is designed for big companies and crowded parties. It can contain up to 6 people. But the most important thing is that the hot pool provides unique items for comfort and fun we didn’t meet before. The kit includes two inflatable head rests and bright multi-colored LED light for a festive atmosphere.
As usual, your purchase will come with a multi-functional pump for inflation, filtration, heating, and control. The same system uses the same accessories (like two cartridge filters and similar floating dispenser) and the same temperature rate and control.
However, the heating timer is an exclusive Coleman innovation, so the Intex pump will work non-stop as long as you wish.
You also cannot directly control the flow rate of its bubble jets, but their quantity fulfills quite an intensive and pleasant hydromassage.
Hard Water Treatment system is another advantage of the hot tub like a ground cloth, an insulation cover, and a highly durable Fiber-Tech beamed construction.
We also have to admit that this model turns out to be the only budget Intex in the review. The majority of its products are rather pricy and cannot be added to this list.
- suitable for big companies up to 6 people
- Fiber-Tech reinforced construction
- puncture-resistant durable materials
- multi-functional pump with non-stop operation
- easy temperature regulation
- ready to use within 20 minutes
- intensive massage thanks to record 170 bubble jets
- the hard water treatment system
- an insulated cover and a thermal ground cloth
- two head rests
- multi-color LED light
- two cartridge filters and a floating chlorine dispenser
- a built-in drain valve
- handles and a carry bag for transportation
- weak filtration with the need for constant cleaning
- no jet flow adjustment
- energy-consuming
- noisy operation
4. Coleman SaluSpa Hawaii AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub – Best Durable Hot Tub
SaluSpa Hawaii is quite similar to its brothers. The greatest similarity is seen when compared to the Miami model. The same 71″ x 26″ dimensions, Tritech walls with beamed construction for 4 people and identical pump make two tubs literally twins.
However, while all previous tubs were round, one will notice its unique square shape. Though this difference seems insignificant, such a construction provides more comfortable individual rest locations for each person. The number of bubble jets is also twice increased, but their flow is not adjustable.
Otherwise, the manufacturer didn’t add any other special features to the model. Here we see a heating and filtering pump with timer, which is standard for all Coleman hot tubs. The temperature range varies from 40 to 104 degrees.
Speaking about the accessories, we noted both a common insulation cover with a chemical floater and an extremely useful repair patch.
Several minor improvements dictate a higher price compared with the Miami tub. A grey color option is also available, but here you’ll have to pay extra bucks for design.
This Coleman hot tub isn’t the cheapest product of the review, but we can recommend it as a nice option for inexperienced hot tub users who don’t want to spend too much money on an unknown stationary tub.
- suitable for 2-4 people
- puncture-resistant Tritech material
- durable beam construction
- more convenient square shape
- powerful multi-functional pump
- Power Saving Timer for 72 hours
- Coleman SaluSpa cover
- two cartridge filters and a chemconnect dispenser
- a built-in drain valve
- cushioned floor
- a repair patch
- handles for easy transportation
- quick installation
- energy-saving
- Power Saving Timer requires regular temperature resetting
- no jet flow adjustment
- no ground cloth
- regular filter cleaning
- slightly overpriced
5. Coleman SaluSpa Portable 4 Person Inflatable Hot Tub – Best Portable Hot Tub
Those who still prefer round and multi-color tub options can try another Coleman SaluSpa model. It is as compact as the Miami and Hawaii and offers close characteristics.
This time, let us emit the listing of its pump functions and accessories as they are identical to the previous Coleman inflatable hot tubs. The only addition is a repair patch and a big round air cushion lid that’s used under the cover for extra insulation.
The tub can contain up to 4 people, but users’ reviews prove it’s better suitable for 2-3 people. Two design options are available – black and orange colors.
Though featuring no specific functions, this hot tub will be a decent choice for customers who agonize over which portable model to pick up. It meets all primary users’ requirements, offering no excessive elements or being too complicated in installation.
- suitable for 2-4 people
- puncture-resistant Tritech material
- durable beam construction
- powerful multi-functional pump
- Power Saving Timer for 72 hours
- Coleman SaluSpa cover
- two cartridge filters and a chemconnect dispenser
- a built-in drain valve
- cushioned floor
- a repair patch
- handles for easy transportation
- quick installation
- energy-saving
- Power Saving Timer requires regular temperature resetting
- no jet flow adjustment
- no ground cloth
- regular filter cleaning
- slightly overpriced
Detailed face-to-face comparison of budget hot tubs
Short description and the list of differences show that budget hot tubs tend to share the same or at least very close characteristics. So, the question of the choice becomes even more complicated. To solve this problem, let us perform a more detailed face-to-face comparison of all five tubs’ features.
Design and Dimensions
The first thing we pay attention to is the appearance of the product. Though the design is more aimed at the esthetic perception, it can also significantly affect the practical usage.
Thus, all five models have different colors (Coleman Hawaii and SaluSpa Portable 4 Person offer additional color options). But it’s their shape that interests us more. Every hot tub is round except for the Coleman Hawaii, which comes in a square design. Since it contains a maximum of 4 people, such configuration is more advantageous and comfortable.
Beam construction is another design thing that unites the tubs. Multiple stiffeners withstand the pressure of water and bodies and contribute to the items’ durability.
Dimensions of all inflatable hot tubs from Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub Spa Green & White to Coleman SaluSpa Portable 4 Person Inflatable Hot Tub are given below in the same order:
- Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub Spa Green & White measures 77″ W x 28″ H with 57″ inner size.
The model can contain up to 6 people and 242 gal.
The empty tub weighs 88 pounds. - Bestway SaluSpa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub measures 71″ W x 26″ H with 52″ inner size.
The model can contain 2-4 people and 177 gal.
The empty tub weighs 53.9 pounds. - Intex PureSpa 75 Inch Inflatable Hot Tub measures 77″ W x 28″ H with 57″ inner size.
The model can contain up to 6 people and 240-250 gal.
The empty tub weighs 114 pounds. - Coleman SaluSpa Hawaii AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub measures 71″ W x 26″ H with 52″ inner size.
The model can contain 2-4 people and 177 gal.
The empty tub weighs about 50 pounds. - Coleman SaluSpa Portable 4 Person Inflatable Hot Tub measures 71″ W x 26″ H with 52″ inner size.
The model can contain 2-4 people and 170-190 gal.
The empty tub weighs 73 pounds.
Materials and Installation
All Colemans use the so-called Tritech 3x fortified material. While having beam skeletons, hot tubs are covered with high-quality PVC that consists of three layers for stability and durability. The only Intex hot tub comes with an identical 3-layer liner, though the whole construction is called Fiber-Tech.
Laminated PVC is covered with a UV layer. It’s completely resistant to fading, weather impacts, punctures, etc. Inflatable hot tubs can stand cold temperatures, but please avoid frosts and subzero temperatures.
Even the biggest items for 6 people offer worry-free installation. All you need is to prepare an area, making sure it’s flat and has no sharp protrusions. Put a protection material on the bottom (like old carpet, wooden flooring, or special ground cloth), unfold your tub, and inflate it. Pumps coming in the kits perfectly cope with this task.
All tubs come with simple installation instructions, and the whole process takes under one hour even when performing by inexperienced people. Disassembly also needs about 30-45 minutes, so you can easily remove the tub for the cold season.
verdictThere will be no winners and losers since both the materials and installation of our hot tubs are the same. Models are durable enough to last for several seasons and cause no problems to their users. However, Intex PureSpa is the only that comes with a specialized ground cloth for additional bottom protection and insulation, so we’d like to highlight it slightly and draw your attention to it.
Pump
The pump is an obligatory part of any inflatable hot tub. Though we see different models and even different manufacturers, all five products’ pumps have the same multi-functional construction. They are used for:
- tub inflation;
- water filtration (as two cartridge filters are installed inside);
- water heating;
- water circulation;
- chemicals dispersion;
- adjustment of jet flow (not for all hot tub models);
Easy controlling is performed via digital displays installed on the top tart of the pumps. Just press the necessary buttons and check the results on the screen.
Coleman models come with one standard pump that supports 110-120V and produces 320 gals/h water flow.
The only Intex hot tub features a more powerful pump with 460 gals/h efficiency and a standard need for a 110-120V net.
Still, the greatest difference between the items hides in their durability of work. After turning on, Intex PureSpa pump will operate non-stop without the need for additional resetting. It also doesn’t support timer functions and energy-saving modes.
The other four hot tub pumps by Coleman use Power Saving Timer. You should set a timer for water heating; the maximum period is 72 hours.
Power Saving Timer represents a significant matter of dispute. Depending on your needs, it can be equally an advantage and a drawback to you. This function can greatly save energy and money for those who take a tub from time to time. But if you prefer your inflatable spa to work constantly, please mind you’ll have to reset the timer every three days, which is rather tedious.
Many users claim pumps are not powerful and high-quality enough to last for longer than a year. Indeed, correct maintenance is required here. Please be ready for regular cleaning, clog elimination, filter changing. Replacement of the whole unit may also be needed soon.
verdictOne cannot expect to get the best pump model within a budget hot tub kit. Though our pumps have some shortcomings, they cope with primary tasks and even offer several additional features like flow adjustment and heating timer. And if we choose the best, we’d pick up Intex PureSpa as the best hot tub with an efficient pump
.
Filtration and Water Treatment
Even the cheapest inflatable hot tubs must provide a certain level of water treatment for users’ safety. That’s why all participants of our review offer as many as two stages of your health protection.
- First of all, the water inside the tub repeatedly goes through the pump’s dual filtering system. It consists of two cartridge filters united in one plastic filter set. Cartridges do not last long and face difficulties when dealing with fine debris. But they are efficient enough to eliminate medium and large particles like sticks, leaves, insects. If you spend extra dollars and purchase a skimmer, you’ll increase filtration thoroughness and prolong cartridges’ lives.
- All the dirt left after the filtration goes through the second stage of treatment. This time, debris faces chemicals. By the way, if your water itself is of poor quality (like too hard or features inappropriate pH balance), you can improve it too. Tubs come with floating chemical dispensers. Water flows through the units and spreads detergents all over the reservoir.
Intex PureSpa made a step forward and added a Hard Water Treatment system. This unique feature reduces calcium buidup and increases general treatment efficiency.
verdictWater treatment systems of the tubs work on two or sometimes even three different levels. Still, their quality may be insufficient for some users. That’s why you’ll have to make extra investments in filtration either by buying new cartridges or by replacing the whole filtering system.
Temperature
The average temperature range of inflatable hot tubs allows users to heat water from 68 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit or 20 to 40 degrees Celsius. The choice between the scales is quite easy since you can set it and change right on display.
A nice thing about hot tubs is that they deal with pure water of any temperature. The only nuance is the time of heating. If the water is warm right from the start, heating to the maximum level will take about 9-12 hours. The colder water, the more time we need. Thus, 50 degrees F (10 degrees C) will require up to 32 hours.
Stationary hot tubs are equipped with more powerful heating systems, so they work much faster. Customers of inflatable models have to accept such slow heating and start their tubs about a day in advance. Later, you’ll only need to support the chosen temperature level.
verdictThe offered range is wide enough to satisfy people with any temperature preferences and health recommendations. Still, it’s important to mind that heating should be started far in advance.
Smaller hot tubs for 2-4 people will take less time compared to bigger models. And they will need less energy for heating and temperature support. That’s why we call the Miami, Hawaii, and SaluSpa Portable models the best hot tubs in terms of energy efficiency. Anyway, the choice is yours.
Bubble Jets
The main pleasure of hot tubs hides not only in warm water. While the water relaxes your body and tired muscles, bubbling and intensive flow perform an exquisite hydro massage. Therapeutic effect will greatly depend on the number of jets, so our hot tubs have:
- 114 jets;
- 60 jets;
- 170 jets;
- 114 jets;
- 60 jets;
However, you can significantly improve the efficiency of procedures if being able to control the jet flow. The function of flow adjustment is widely presented among more expensive stationary hot tubs.
In our review, we can boast only of two models with such a characteristic. The first Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub Spa Green & White and the second Coleman SaluSpa Miami use standard AirJet system and also allow you to change the intensity of bubble flow according to your preferences or medical recommendations.
Let us also mention one especially remarkable moment that the jet adjustment can be met in a big tub for six and small for two or four people.
verdictThe first two inflatable models with jet flow control will be the best hot tubs for customers looking for a tub for medical reasons.
Intex PureSpa and Coleman Hawaii atone the lack of adjustment by the great number of jets, so they will also please most users. If you need the best hot tub for massage, pick up these products. Unfortunately, Coleman SaluSpa 4 Person with its moderate 60 jets with no adjustment seems to be the lagging model.
Draining
177-250 gallons of water will become a real problem when you try to empty your tub. That’s why every decent inflatable hot tub must include some draining system.
All five models of the top come with built-in drain valves for quick and easy water release. Valves are installed on the bottoms, opened and closed in seconds.
Accessories
Accessories included in the kit can make your rest more comfortable as well as save your money. Apart from the basic elements like pumps, our hot tubs come with other useful items. Here is the most detailed list of all models’ accessories.
Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub Spa Green & White includes:
- a multi-functional pump;
- an insulated cover;
- two cartridge filters;
- a floating chemconnect dispenser;
Bestway SaluSpa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub comes with:
- a multi-functional pump;
- an insulated cover;
- two cartridge filters;
- a floating chemconnect dispenser;
Intex PureSpa 75 Inch Inflatable Hot Tub has:
- a multi-functional pump;
- an insulated cover;
- two cartridge filters;
- a floating chlorine dispenser;
- a thermal ground cloth;
- 3-way test strip;
- a carry bag;
- two head rests;
- a multi-color LED light;
Coleman SaluSpa Hawaii AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub features:
- a multi-functional pump;
- an insulated cover;
- two cartridge filters;
- a floating chemconnect dispenser;
- repair patch;
Coleman SaluSpa Portable 4 Person Inflatable Hot Tub comes with:
- a multi-functional pump;
- an insulated cover;
- two cartridge filters;
- a floating chemconnect dispenser;
- repair patch;
- air cushion lid;
Since we have already discussed pumps, filters, and dispensers above, let us pore over other items this time. The only thing we’d like to add is that absolutely all hot tubs include these vital accessories.
Insulation cover with clip locks is also presented in all kits. Thanks to such addition, you’ll be able to protect your tub from debris as well as keep water warm all the time, saving the electricity.
Ground cloth serves the same goals, but, as we see, only one tub model – Intex PureSpa – can offer such an accessory in its basic kit. By the way, while Coleman avoids cloths, Intex equips all its inflatable tubs with them.
Intex PureSpa is also the only that comes with a test strip, carry bag, head rests, and LED light. The manufacturer takes care of both users’ safety and convenience.
Repair patch presented in the last two kits only should be considered as an excellent addition, too.
verdictThe first Colemans – SaluSpa Green & White and Miami – have nothing special to boast of but lack nothing either. They come with standard kits that quite satisfied us. Thus, we get the best basic hot tub kit.
Coleman Hawaii and 4 Person continue using the same set of accessories and even managed to slightly broaden it by getting a repair patch.
Intex PureSpa becomes a true favorite of the accessory comparison. None of the previous models can boast of so many unique items in their kits. So, Intex PureSpa is the best hot tub with the widest set of accessories.
Buyer’s Guide – How to Choose the Best Inflatable Hot Tub?
First of all, customers are recommended to decide whether they need a stationary or an inflatable hot tub. While the first option is more lasting, reliable, and high-quality, the latter models can also draw your attention by some undeniable advantages. They are:
- much more affordable;
- lighter and easier in installation, which is a great plus of inexperienced users;
- more compact, thus taking almost no place in your backyard;
- easy to clean and maintain;
- functional enough to satisfy your requirements to water temperature, jet flow, filtration, etc.
If you considered all these factors and confirmed your suppositions about the need for a budget inflatable hot tub, it’s time to choose the right model. To make the most beneficial purchase, please mind the following moments:
- Decide on the size of your future tub. If you’re limited in free space and use a tub by yourself only, with your partner, or with a couple of friends, try smaller models for 2-4 people. They take about 4ft x 4ft area, heat water quickly, and consume less energy. Party people would love bigger options for 6 people.
- Please pay attention to the material and construction of the products. Since inflatable goods do not live long, it’s important to find high-quality material that will extend the service life. Laminated PVC, polyester, a liner of several layers, UV covering, beams, stiffeners are the best options available.
- Pump power will directly influence the flow rate, speed of water heating, and filtering. So, try to look for potent items.
- The number of jets and the ability to control their performance is a vital thing to consider. If you want a hot tub for fun, these factors won’t be too important to you. But those who need a tub for medical reasons should look carefully for the models with flow adjustment and numerous jets, which can perform a proper hydro massage.
- The filtering system is responsible for water safety and your health, so please do check filter efficiency, ease of maintenance, and availability in advance. The chemical dispenser will be a lovely and welcomed addition for those planning to use the tub daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much will it cost me per month to run my hot tub?
Your electricity bill expenses will depend on the frequency of tub use and the set temperature. If run daily on its maximum, tub consumes energy equal to $30 per month.2. Can I change the Fahrenheit scale to Celsius in my hot tub?
3. How much water should I put into my inflatable hot tub?
Please also mind that water quantity depends on the number of people who are to sit inside. The more people, the higher the waterline.
4. How much are cartridge filters for Coleman inflatable hot tubs? How often should I replace them?
Manufacturers recommend changing filters every week. But according to reviews, one filter set used daily can work longer, for 2 or 3 weeks, for instance. If you use your tub rarer, you can replace filters once per month.
5. What is the cheapest inflatable hot tub for 4 people?
Conclusion
Inflatable hot tubs turned to be a truly worthy replacement for expensive stationary models. As we see, customers on a budget face no problems with choosing a suitable option with all basic functions under $1000.
In our opinion, Coleman Miami is the best compact option for 2-4 people. Not only does it offer the most beneficial price, but also stays the only small hot tub with the adjustable jet flow.
A choice of a 6-place hot tub will be more complicated. On the one hand, many would prefer Coleman SaluSpa Green & White with jet flow control, energy-saving timer, and an attractive price. But on the other hand, slightly more expensive Intex PureSpa will require no heating timer resetting, offering more bubble jets and the widest kit instead.
Hi! I’m Markus Robertson, and water is my passion.
Five years ago, I graduated from the University of California-Los Angeles and was going to become a professional marine biologist. However, my fate had other plans for me, and due to family problems, I had to find a more stable and well-paid job. I had only one wish for my job to be connected with water.
During this period of my life, I worked as a sales manager at Olympic Pool & Spa Supplies. The job helped me learn everything about swimming pools and related pool equipment, as well as how to choose the best option and what to pay attention to.
My daughter, after a massive heart attach can only function in water to do exercises. She uses buoyant and resistant weights on arms and under knees. We don’t need multiple people, we need space for her to maneuver and safety in entering and exiting.
Hi, DonnaMarie Baldwin! Thank you very much for your comment! If you’re speaking about hot tubs, we can recommend Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub Spa Green & White model. It provides enough space for exercises and therapeutic massage effect. However, please mind that all inflatable constructions cannot ensure completely safe entering and exiting. Besides, you kindly ask you to consult your doctor before purchasing a hot tub since high temperatures may harm your daughter. That’s why we suggest getting a regular frame pool. These models are solid, safe, not too deep but big enough for activities. Please take a look at our Intex Metal Frame Pool vs Prism Frame Pool vs Ultra Frame Pool review.