Though owning your spa center seems unreal for many of us, this concept is becoming increasingly possible. But how can people purchase efficient yet affordable products? The answer is small hot tubs 2 to 4 person.
These budget, compact tubs require less energy and almost no installation skills while providing the same hydro massage quality. So, why won’t you try some plug & play or inflatable models this coming cold season?
And let us help you with the choice! Our team conducted a detailed comparison of the five best deals in the market and found the winners. The nominees are American Spas AM-628TS, American Spas AM-418B, Coleman SaluSpa Hawaii, Coleman SaluSpa Green & White, and Coleman SaluSpa 4 Person.
Main Differences Between the Models
Before we start our comparison review, let’s briefly list the essential differences between the five hot tub models. Each of them can seriously influence your product choice, so please get acquainted with them attentively:
- American Spas AM-628TS and American Spas AM-418B belong to the plug & play hot tubs category. It means they are very similar to the stationary tubs but work from a common outlet and don’t require extra-complicated installation. The other three tubs are inflatable budget options.
- All tubs are suitable for couples or small families up to four members. Still, they vary in their seating capacity. The first model is designed for 2 (maximum of 3) people; the second is for 2 only; the third is for 2-4 people; the fourth tub can contain the company of 4 to 6; the last model is for 2-4 people.
- The American Spas and the Coleman tubs are equipped with different pumps. The first tubs’ pump is 2 HP and designed for fewer tasks. The inflatable models pump is more multi-functional (which we’ll see later) and has a 1.5 HP rate. It is also the only pump with an energy-saving heating timer.
- American Spas more powerful pump with innovative titanium heater provides better water heating. Its speed is on the order faster than the speed of the Colemans.
- All five hot tubs have a different number of bubble jets. Besides, the AM-628TS and the AM-418B allow users to adjust the jet flow rate individually for each seat. The SaluSpa Green & White can also change the water pressure intensity but once and for the whole tub. Other hot tubs do not support the jet control system.
- The jets of the two above-mentioned tubs are located to massage different body parts. There are separate jet groups for neck, back, arms, and legs. Other tubs do not have directional stress point elements.
- All models use cartridge filters. But the American Spas tubs are equipped with one filter each, while the Colemans come with dual cartridge filtering.
- Only American Spas AM-628TS and AM-418B provide ozone water sanitation with the help of HydroClear Ozonator.
Comparison table of Small Hot Tubs
1. American Spas Hot Tub AM-628TS 2-Person
The first beneficial offer of our review belongs to the American Spas company. The brand is known for producing medium price niche high-quality hot tubs both for big companies and intimate rest.
The AM-628TS is one of the best small-capacity options in the market. The model is designed for two people, but its unique triangle shape and spare corner allow it to fit one more person. Besides a nice seating decision, the triangle hot tub can fit any empty corner of your backyard, thus taking almost no extra place.
The tub is equipped with 28 independent stainless steel jets with individual flow controlling and well-thought-out location to massage several body zones. While sitting inside, you get the comprehensive hydrotherapy effect directed to your back, neck, legs, and arms. The jets feature different construction, which means different massaging methods.
The water treatment system consists of an American Spas patented Bio-Clean filter and a HydroClear Ozonator. While the first traps large and fine debris, the second eliminates all hazardous particles and bacteria.
Whisper-operating pump heats water to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. But despite its power, the tub stays energy-saving thanks to exquisite insulation. Walls, bottom, and additional cover retain heat inside the tub.
Speaking about the accessories, we’d also like to mention built-in multi-color LED lighting and a small waterfall.
All tub systems such as heating, jet flow rate, ozone sanitizing, color entertainment stay under your control thanks to a simple digital command center.
- suitable for 2-3 people
- high-quality materials
- powerful 2 HP multi-functional pump
- 28 jets of various designs
- individual jet control for each seat
- several massage zones
- simple digital command center
- Bio-Clean top-loading filter
- HydroClear Ozonator
- multi-color LED light system included
- small waterfall
- additional foam insulation of walls and protective cover
- a built-in drain valve
- takes less place compared to other hot tubs
- no chemical dispenser included
- cover usage, mounting, and removing can be rather complicated
- installation takes some time
- expensive
2. American Spas Hot Tub AM-418B 2-Person
The AM-128B is very similar to the previous model due to many reasons. First of all, it belongs to the same manufacturer. Besides, the tub follows the same aims of plug & play hot tubs, offering easy installation and extended lifetime.
So, the tub is suitable for couples as it has only two seats. Each seat comes with its own design, including jets number and location, as well as body support. One seat is perfect for upright body position; another has more reclined back.
Eighteen independent jets are divided between the seats and several massage zones – for back, neck, legs, and arms. Each user can customize the jet flow according to his/her preferences, never disturbing the neighbor.
When it comes to water filtering and treatment, we noticed no changes. The tub uses the same Bio-Clean filter and HydroClear Ozonator.
Pump, control system, and insulation stay the same as well.
Apart from an American Spas standard Hydro-armor tapered spa cover, customers get a built-in small waterfall, LED lighting with the choice of seven colors, and an exclusive 2-speaker Bluetooth Freedom Sound System. The last moment will be a great advantage for music lovers.
- designed for 2 people
- high-quality materials
- powerful 2 HP multi-functional pump
- 18 jets of several designs and individual locations
- seats have different designs to suit people with varying body position preferences
- individual jet control for each seat
- individual hydrotherapy massage for several body zones
- simple digital display for control
- Bio-Clean easy access filter
- HydroClear Ozonator
- 2-speaker Bluetooth Freedom Sound System
- multi-color LED light system included
- small waterfall
- additional insulation of bottom/walls and protective cover
- a built-in drain valve
- quick installation
- no chemical dispenser included
- heavy
- expensive
3. Coleman 90454 SaluSpa Hawaii AirJet 4-Person
Coleman Hawaii belongs to the category of budget inflatable hot tubs. This option is much more affordable compared to the previous plug & play products, though it has few things to concede to them.
Firstly, the Coleman model is big enough to contain up to 4 people. Inflatable tubs seldom come in a square shape, so our model provides more comfortable individual rest locations for each person.
Inflatable construction reinforced with multiple beams makes installation even easier than the one of plug & play tubs. All you need is to set the product, connect it to the included pump, and inflate.
The pump also acts as a heater, filter, and control center. A Power Saving Timer allows you to choose how long you want to run your tub. Dual cartridge filters perform primary debris elimination, though fine dirt may escape it. An additional chemical dispenser will contribute to water purity, either.
Punctures, tears, and short service life are common problems of all inflatable products, so you can’t expect your Coleman Hawaii to stay with you for ten years. Still, with proper maintenance, it will work for several seasons. Tub Tritech liner consists of three different layers, which provide additional durability.
When it comes to the jets, the Hawaii beats other hot tubs by their record number – 114 jets in one spa. However, you cannot control them, change their flow, or customize the work according to your preferences.
Apart from the tub, customers also get one insulation cover and a repair patch.
Coleman Hawaii is available in two color options.
- suitable for 2-4 people
- puncture-resistant Tritech material
- durable beam construction
- multi-functional pump
- Power Saving Timer for 72 hours
- simple digital control panel
- Coleman SaluSpa cover
- two cartridge filters and a chemconnect dispenser
- a built-in drain valve
- cushioned floor
- a repair patch
- quick installation
- energy-saving
- affordable price
- Power Saving Timer requires regular temperature resetting
- no jet flow adjustment
- no directional stress points massaging
- less durable
- weak filtration
4. Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub Spa Green & White
Coleman SaluSpa Green & White continues the list of budget inflatable models. Besides, it offers the greatest seating capacity. The tub is big enough to fit as many as 6 people, though 4 people are an ultimately comfortable quantity.
The main characteristics of the tub completely coincide with the previous Coleman product. The SaluSpa Green & White has Tritech fortified walls with beams, a multi-functional pump with Power Saving Timer, 68-104 degrees heating range, dual cartridge filtration, and easy digital control.
The same 114 jets provide superior hydrotherapy, and this time, the flow is controllable. Users can set the pressure intensity and change it for a perfect massage effect.
As usual, a chemconnect dispenser and a clip locked cover are included.
- suitable for 4 and even 6 people
- puncture-resistant Tritech material
- durable beam construction
- multi-functional pump
- simple digital control panel
- adjustable jet flow
- Power Saving Timer for 72 hours
- Coleman SaluSpa cover
- two cartridge filters and a chemconnect dispenser
- a built-in drain valve
- quick installation
- affordable price
- Power Saving Timer requires regular temperature resetting
- no directional stress points massaging
- less durable
- weak filtration
5. Coleman SaluSpa Portable 4 Person Inflatable Hot Tub
If you want a hot tub just for two of you to rest during cold seasons and don’t want to spend a lot on it, Coleman SaluSpa 4 Person is your perfect choice.
As we see from the name, the tub is suitable for 4 people, but couples get more space to relax. Inflatable construction allows you to easily install and remove the tub for part-time usage. And beams withstand constant water pressure never letting the tub to lose its shape.
The SaluSpa is equipped with 60 jets and doesn’t offer flow controlling. We cannot recommend it to people who need hot spas with hydro massage for medical reasons. But the model provides nice bubbling and basic massaging if you just want to relax at the end of a hard day.
Two cartridge filters assisted by a chemconnect floating dispenser will help you keep your tub safe. At the same time, a Power Saving Timer pump evenly heats water and supports the same temperature for up to 72 hours.
An insulation cover and a repair patch are included. The model also comes with a big air cushion lid, which is put under the cover for better heat retention.
Two color options are available at the moment.
- suitable for 2-4 people
- puncture-resistant Tritech material
- durable beam construction
- powerful multi-functional pump
- simple digital control panel
- 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
- quick installation
- energy-saving
- affordable price
- Power Saving Timer requires regular temperature resetting
- no jet flow adjustment
- less durable
- weak filtration
Detailed face-to-face comparison of Small Hot Tubs 2 to 4 Person
Design and Dimensions
Though our hot tubs are designed for two or a maximum of four people, they provide enough space for comfortable rest. If listed in the same model order, their dimensions will be:
- American Spas Hot Tub AM-628TS measures 72″ x 72″ x 35″, has 130 gallons water capacity, weighs about 700 pounds, perfect for 2-3 people;
- American Spas Hot Tub AM-418B 2-Person measures 90″ x 48″ x 33″, has 200 gallons water capacity, weighs about 500 pounds, for 2 people;
- Coleman SaluSpa Hawaii measures 71″ W x 26″ H with 52″ inner diameter, has 177 gallons water capacity, weighs about 50 pounds, for 2-4 people;
- Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub Spa Green & White measures 77″ W x 28″ H with 57″ inner diameter, has 242 gallons water capacity, weighs about 90 pounds, for 4-6 people;
- Coleman SaluSpa Portable 4 Person measures 71″ W x 26″ H with 52″ inner diameter, has 170-190 gallons water capacity, weighs about 70 pounds, for 2-4 people;
Thus, we see that the first two plug & play American Spas models turn out to be the heaviest but not the most capacious options. Heavy weight may become a problem for installation and further transportation of the tubs, so please mind it.
It’s also important to note that all five spas come with absolutely different designs. The models are:
- triangle with three color options – Sterling Silver, Tuscan Sun, and Tuscany Sun and Mahogany;
- oval with one black and white design;
- square with two color options – blue and grey;
- round with one green and white design;
- round with two color options – black and orange;
Materials and Installation
Though in the previous part, it was stated that American Spas tubs are much bulkier, we cannot deny that it is an advantage in terms of durability. The first two models are made of more solid materials, which means they will last for many years.
The AM-628TS and the AM-418B both consist of synthetic cabinet panels and special pressure treated wood cabinet frames. Outside panels have seven laminate layers. All tub parts, including the walls, the bottom, and the cover, are reinforced with ABS molding and thermo-shield layer for better heat retention. The inner surface is mainly acrylic. Thus, the tubs are resistant to severe temperature changes, moisture, weather and UV impacts, etc. Both models can serve for ten years and even more.
The left three hot tubs cannot boast of such durability, but no inflatable products can’t either. However, their liner materials and sealing quality give them a chance to last for several seasons with proper maintenance, of course. So, all Colemans are made of Tritech liner. It means that the PVC consists of three different layers and is three times more resistant to punctures, tears, leakage, fading, and so on. Inside the liner, numerous beams add stiffness to the whole construction.
Plug & play tubs are easier to install compared to stationary hot tubs since you don’t have to make all the wires and pay for professional installation services. The whole process will take several hours. Still, inflatable models provide even easier mounting, when all you need is to prepare a flat area and inflate the thing. An inexperienced person will need no more than an hour to set the item.
Please mind that all five hot tubs are suitable for both outdoor and indoor usage, but proper installation, area choice, and maintenance are required.
Pump
The American Spas tubs all share the same pump system. They come with a powerful 2 HP 6-breaker pump with two speed options and a reverse-flow system for cooling. Users note silent operation and reliable quality.
Apart from pumping, the motor has a built-in 5.5 kW titanium heater. Such an element is a breakthrough in the industry of hot tubs as it supports fast water heating, is resistant to the impact of chemicals and time.
Both tubs work from standard 110V or 240V net, so all you need is to plug the cord into an outlet and enjoy the warm water.
The Colemans pump significantly differs from the previous one. First of all, it combines many more functions. The three inflatable tubs use pumps to:
- inflate tubs;
- pump and heat water;
- filter water with built-in cartridge filters;
- run and control the jets;
- promote water circulation;
- disperse chemicals;
Only Coleman pumps have the so-called Power Saving Timer. It means you can choose how long you want your pump to work. The maximum period is 72 hours; after that, the pump will turn off. It’s a great feature if you need the tub just from time to time. But for everyday use, regular resetting is necessary. Pumps work from a 110V-120V outlet.
All five motor systems are run through the displays.
Filtration and Water Treatment
All five hot tubs provide compulsory water filtration systems, which share lots in common, by the way.
Coleman:
The Colemans inflatable tubs also use cartridge filters, but, this time, the manufacturer added two elements instead of one. The Colemans’ filters are of lower quality and efficiency, so their double work partly compensates certain drawbacks. Filters deal with large and fine debris, though ultra-fine particles may escape their traps.
When it comes to other water treatment systems, our comparison showed big differences. Firstly, all hot tubs will win if equipped with elements for chemical water treatment. Floating dispensers are a great example, but they are included only in the Colemans’ kits. The American Spas tubs support dispensers, but you’ll have to buy them separately.
However, though lacking chemical systems, the AM-628TS and the AM-418B are the only models of the review that offer HydroClear Ozonator. Special ozone elements are installed inside the tubs, let through the water, enrich it with ozone, and release with bubbles. Thus, the water becomes over 90% safer and cleaner. Ozone sanitation eliminates both left dirt particles and dangerous bacteria, algae, etc.
Additional water treatment is that thing that can become decisive for you. The presence of water Ozonator seems to be more important compared to chemical dispensers. So, here, the choice is yours.
Temperature
American AM-628TS and the AM-418B allow users to adjust water temperature within 80°F to 104°F rate (26°C to 40°C). As you see, the choice of the Fahrenheit and Celsius scales is also possible. Unique Titanium heater significantly contributes to the heating speed, so both tubs increase water temperature approximately 10 degrees per hour. Our tests and users’ reviews show that it takes about 5 hours to heat pure water from 50°F to 100°F.
Apart from the Set Temperature Mode, when the heater works non-stop, there are also Economy and Sleep modes. The last two options allow you to save energy when you don’t use the tub but want it to stay warm. They will activate the heater only during filtration time and increase temperature only within 20°F (10°C) of the set temperature.
The Colemans Hawaii, Green & White, and SaluSpa 4 Person are able to support the same temperature level. They heat water from 68°F to 104°F degrees or 20°C to 40°C. Heating time is enlarged here as budget inflatable hot tubs usually use weaker heating elements. Thus, you’ll need from 9 to 32 hours to warm your water, depending on its initial temperature and the current °F /°C setting.
The above-mentioned Power Saving Timer also shortens your electricity expenses.
Bubble Jets
The total number of jets greatly varies depending on the model. Thus, American Spas AM-628TS, the AM-418B, Coleman Hawaii, Green & White, and SaluSpa 4 Person are equipped with:
- 28 jets;
- 18 jets;
- 114 jets;
- 114 jets;
- 60 jets;
When we look at it from this point of view, the American Spas are absolute winners. Not only can they change their flow according to your preferences, but they also offer individual jet customization for each person. Besides, jets are spread all over the tubs’ inner surfaces, thus promoting comprehensive massage for several body zones. Their varying designs contribute to the diversity of massage methods.
Unfortunately, the Coleman hot tubs do not support the function of the jet flow adjustment. The SaluSpa Green & White is the only exception. This hot tub allows you to change the flow pressure and the bubbling intensity for the whole tub. Other tubs come with a pre-set standard jet flow.
Jets are located across the bottom circle and not divided into massage zones.
Draining
Perhaps, draining is the only identical characteristic of all five models. Manufacturers equipped their tubs with similar bottom-located drain valves for fast water releasing.
The first and the second models have their valves hidden under the screw-fixed panels. So, when you want to drain your tub, you’ll have to spend some time to get access, attach a hose, and drain the water. The process takes several minutes only. But it’s worth mentioning that protruding inner elements like seats may keep water, so for complete draining, your help may be needed.
The Colemans also use a bottom-installed valve, though it stays within direct access all the time. After a quick hose attachment, the draining starts. Since the tubs have no special seats inside, almost all water leaves the thing from the first turn.
Accessories
American Spas Hot Tub AM-628TS 2-Person comes with:
- a pump;
- a Hydro-armor tapered spa cover;
- easy access 50 ft. reusable Bio-Clean cartridge filter;
- multi-color LED lighting;
- a waterfall;
American Spas Hot Tub AM-418B 2-Person has:
- a pump;
- a Hydro-armor tapered spa cover;
- easy access 50 ft. reusable Bio-Clean cartridge filter;
- multi-color LED lighting;
- a waterfall;
- 2-speaker Bluetooth Freedom Sound System installed;
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 Inflatable Hot Tub Spa Green & White includes:
- a multi-functional pump;
- an insulated cover;
- two cartridge filters;
- a floating chemconnect dispenser;
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;
As we have discussed earlier, the main kit differences belong to the presence or the lack of chemical dispensers, repair patches, and entertainment elements.
Thus, the plug & play tubs do not offer lots of functional accessories, but they are the best in terms of party things. Everybody will love their LED lightings with the set of seven colors, small waterfalls, and speaker sound system.
The inflatable models have nothing for big parties. Their kits are mostly aimed at water treatment and tear dealing situations.
Buyer’s Guide – How to Choose the Best Small Hot Tub?
The choice of a good hot tub always depends on many factors. Specialists recommend minding the future tub’s aim, functions, manufacturer, and retailer. Apart from these well-known moments, there are several trickier things many customers forget of. So, here they are.
Firstly, decide on what materials you prefer. Nowadays, we can choose between inflatable models made of PVC, panel and acrylic half-ready (they are also called plug & play) tubs, and stationary tubs, which consist of even more durable materials like concrete, fiberglass, composite materials, etc.
The main reason for buying a private hot tub is its excellent massaging abilities. They include the number of jets, their design, location inside the tub, flow adjustment, and so on. Hydrotherapy will please everybody and will be worth paying for. Still, people with back pains, posture problems, muscle numbness, and other health issues should give paramount consideration to these factors.
Heating scale and speed are two more features that determine a good hot tub. When the majority of products offer similar 40°F -104°F/60°F -104°F/80°F —104°F temperature selections, the time that is needed to reach this level significantly vary. More budget models may require over 24 hours to heat freshwater. Top hot tubs will take several hours, but electricity expenses can negatively surprise you.
Think of what water treatment system suits you most. All tubs come with filters, but not all of them can boast of chemical dispensers or hard water treatment systems. If you are going to use your hot tub daily and your water quality doesn’t make feel safe, we recommend choosing models with several treatment options. If you don’t really need it, don’t spend extra bucks and try a single-filter product.
Finally, it’s better to also check for:
- the hot tub seating and water capacity;
- dimensions and area it needs for installation;
- ease of installation;
- indoor and outdoor usage;
- accessories included;
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between inflatable and plug & play hot tubs?
Both types are relatively affordable, portable, and easy-to-install hot tubs. They all don’t need professional installation and work from a standard 110V outlet.
However, inflatable models are made of PVC, while p&p tubs consist of rigid panels, wood, insulation foam, and acrylic. Plug & play hot tubs are more durable, offer better hydrotherapy and faster heating. But they are also heavier, more expansive, and need more time for (dis)assembly.
2. Are plug & play hot tubs more expensive to run than inflatable hot tubs?
If used every day, inflatable spas will cost you about $20-$30 per month. On average, P=p&p hot tubs are $15-$20 more expensive.
3. Do American Spas hot tubs keep filtering and heating water when not in use?
4. How often should I change filters in my hot tub?
5. Can I use small inflatable and plug & play hot tubs indoor?
Please always check the outdoor/indoor use permission of your hot tub in advance!
Conclusion
The detailed comparison of the best small hot tub models proved that there are many excellent options available in the market. Besides, you can be sure of finding a perfect product regardless of your budget, free space, installation skills, and so on.
Though the American Spas turned out to be the most expensive tubs for just a couple of people, they provide the best massage. Besides, more durable construction, faster heating, and more thorough water treatment seem to pay off the high primary expenses.
When comparing the inflatable models, we concluded that Coleman SaluSpa Green & White would be an optimal choice. This tub offers the best size and jet flow control for the smallest money. So, if you’re up for something budget yet multi-functional, hurry up and try this one before the price rises.
The Hawaii and the 4 Person hot tubs will better suit those who know exactly what they are looking for. Though we believe they are slightly overpriced at the moment, their compact dimensions, strict seating capacity for four people and nice kits deserve your attention.
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.
