They are brilliant solutions for anyone searching for a terrific hot tub experience with the least amount of effort and hassle. A good plug and play hot doesn’t necessarily have to be an expensive deal. Some of them come with amazing features like waterjets, waterfalls, built-in water softener, water filters and ozonators, but the premium can cost you a little fortune. However, they all feel nice to have and pretty much the same. Capacity, number of jets and power source requirements are some of the factors that you need to keep in mind. The other factors are mentioned in the best plug and play hot tub buyers guide.
Bather Capacity: Generally, the plug and play hot tubs have a capacity of 2 to 6 people. To avoid space issues, we would suggest you buy something with more capacity than you need. This way you can always welcome more people and have more space to enjoy yourselves. Power Source Requirements: Most of the plug and play hot tubs work with all the standard power outlets 110V/15A. But some more powerful ones require a higher voltage outlet. Installing a new power outlet can be a little expensive. So, keep this in mind. Number of Jets: If you want to enjoy a nice massaging seat look for water jets. It does not always go by the rule ‘more is better’. Buy something that comes with water jets for targeted areas where you need pain relief therapy along with comfortable relaxing seats. So, you can enjoy your best.
The market is filled with an overwhelming number of options. To keep you out, we are reviewing the best plug and play hot tubs that are available in the market right now. We have created a list for everyone considering the budget, capacity and efficiency and also added a proper “Buying Guide” to make your buying process easier.
A Quick Comparison of our Favorites in 2023
The 6 Best Plug and Play Hot Tub Review
1. Essential Plug and Play Hot Tub
The Essential Hot Tub 2021 can accommodate 6 people at once which makes it one of largest options in the Plug and Play Hot Tub Category. It features 20 jets, a digital control panel and 2 speed pumps that can heat up the system to 104 degree F.
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All the 20 stainless steel jets are powered by a 2HP pump that gives a nice massaging effect. Because there are plenty of jets, everyone gets to enjoy a nice relaxing spa. It connects with all standard 120V/15 A outlets and comes with a GFCI cord. You have the option of a 240V unit for maximum heating, but we advise you to get it done by a professional. Needless to mention how quiet and efficient it is. Made in the USA it has gone through the highest quality controls. There are heavy-duty insulated covers and clocking clips that hold the warmth for a pretty long time. Another reason it preserves the heat so well is because of its construction. The outside is made of resin and the interior is so well insulated that it can retain optimum heat for a maximum time. Although it takes a bit more time while filling the tub, the quality and heat retention capacity makes up for that. Depending on the outside temperature it can take around 12 hours to heat up the entire tub at 104 degree C. Also, you can place it almost anywhere, deck? ok! Pavers? Ok! Concrete? Yes. And also on dirt and mud. Best Features:
Seating Capacity: 6 Jets: 20 Construction: Resin Controls: 2 speed digital backlit control panel Power Connection: 120V/15 A Maximum Heat: 104 C Dimensions: 5″L x 80.5″W x 34.5″H Weight: 485 pounds
Pros:
Fits 6 adults Heats up pretty fast Easy to set up The side ridges can be used as cup holders Value for money
Cons:
The jet nozzles are ot adjustable
2. Bueno Plug and Play Hot Tub
If you are willing to spend some extras for exciting features, then we have a better option here. The Bueno Spa Jersey, as the name says it, comes with 6 seating and 46 massage jets that targets your neck, shoulders and back and relieves all the tension after all the day’s work. It can be a perfect escape place, and it fits 6 people at a time, so a great option for the entire family. It includes 1 lounge seat along with 5 regular seats. The best part about Bueno Spa Jersey is its different kinds of massage seats where the water jets target different body parts and even adjust the intensity of the nozzles. If you are a person who will enjoy a good massage while in the hot tub then this might be a great deal. The massage seats are relaxing seats where the water jets target the shoulders, back and hip. The cooldown seat where you get a gentle massage, Intenso massage recommended after intense workout targets areas of legs and hips. The side cabinet is another bonus point. Made of UV-resistant polymer and a wooden-finish, this slider cabinet is absolutely useful for keeping your towels, drinks, glasses and other accessories. To make your hoth bathing experience even more hygienic this has combined a filternation system with Ozone generator that continuously works on disinfecting the water. It comes with a thermal cover and the heat retention capacity is quite good. The structure and the shell both have 7 years of warranty. Best Features:
Seating Capacity: 6 Jets: 46 Construction: Acrylic Power Connection: 120V/15 A Maximum Heat: 104 C Dimensions: 74 x 78.74 x 34.26 inches Weight: 5 Pounds
Pros:
Different kinds of massage seats 46 jets 1 lounge seat 7 years of warranty
Cons:
On the expensive side
3. LifeSmart Plug and Play Hot Tub
This small and simple Plug and Play Hot tub is reasonably priced still it offers enough space to fit 4 adults. Compared to previous models there are only 9 jets and 4 standard seats, which is less than 3 jets per person. However, you get to enjoy the spa with underwater LED lights along with a digital control panel. The digital control panel also has adjustments for the jet’s intensity hence you get some customization options even though the number of jets are less. It’s pretty heavy for its size and comes with a huge 205-gallon capacity. It takes around 20-30 hours to reach 104 degrees at ambient temperature. It plugs into any standard power outlet. It’s energy efficient and takes longer to heat up. However, it preserves the heat well. The outside, as well as the inside, is fully insulated. There’s no need for installation as it comes fully assembled. Since. it’s heavy you may need two or more people to help you place it in the backyard or wherever you like. It’s one great deal within budget. It’s best for couples and a family of 3 to 4 members. Best Features:
Seating Capacity: 4 Jets: 9 Construction: Acrylic Digital control panel: Adjustable LED lights and jet’s intensity Power Connection: 120V/15 A Maximum Heat: 104 C Dimensions: 70″L x 61″W x 32″H Capacity: 205 gallon
Pros:
Compact in size Preserves the heat well Affordable Adjustable jets
Cons:
Heavy
4. Essential 50 Plug and Play Hot Tub
If you want the best of both worlds, a 6 seater Hot Tub with different massage seats then the Essential Hot Tub might be the best bet. Featuring 50 jets the Plug and Play hot tub comes with a lounge seat with 15 jets targeted for the muscles of the back and legs. And the captain seat features 13 jets, including 11 back jets and 2 leg jets. Needless to mention this Hot tub has the highest number of jets in its category and it’s most suggested for a relaxing massage therapy. This doesn’t end here. The LED backlit digital display also allows you to choose between the speed settings, massage settings, temperature control and LED light modes and effects. The tub has plenty of room to stretch out. However, even if it says it can accommodate 6 people, maxim 5 adults can fit in comfortably. We love the rosewood finish and the construction that’s so well built, you can put it almost anywhere you like. It has a 400 gallon capacity which is huge. There are 2 speed settings and 5 peak HP pumps that continuously sprays water though the nozzles. It plug into only 240 V power outlet mens you might need a professional to make you a power outlet. Best Features:
Seating Capacity: 5-6 Jets: 50 Construction: Polyurethane, Rosewood Finish Digital control panel: Speed, LEd lights, Temperature, Massage modes Power Connection: 240V Maximum Heat: 105 degree C Dimensions: 85 x 85 x 36 inches Capacity: 400 gallon
Pros:
50 jets with different massage seats Maximum number of controls 400 gallon water capacity Comes with an insulated cover
Cons:
Only connects to 240 V power outlet
5. Intex Plug and Play Hot Tub
The Intex Pure Spa plus packs some bonus features and it’s priced so reasonably that anyone can afford it. It features 140 bubble jets and can accommodate 4 adults on a maximum. There are two premium chairs with headrests and two standard chairs. Unlike others, this comes with bubble jets that don’t give you a massaging effect but the extra features like LED light, two S1 cartilage filters makes up for that. It even comes with a rechargeable control panel that adjusts the temperature to your preference, LED colors modes and even includes a timer for scheduled heating. Infact, their personalized app lets you control it through your smartphone. You can schedule the heating times and check on the filters for when they need a replacement from the Intex Smartphone App. Talking about its build quality, the outer side is made of extra durable fiber and 3-ply laminated wood while the interior is fully insulated with dense thermal resistant foam. Other than this, there is an in-built hard water treatment filter that prevents calcium build up inside the tub. It should take around 20 to 30 minutes ( depending on the ambient temperature) to heat the water at 104 degrees. The package includes a floating chlorine dispenser, a thermal ground cloth, carry bag and an inflation hose. Best Features:
Seating Capacity: 4 Jets: 140 Construction: Laminate PVC Digital control panel: Temperature, LED lights, timer, intensity Power Connection: 110-120 V Maximum Heat: 104 degree C Dimensions: 77 x 77 x 28 inches Capacity: 210 Gallon
Pros:
Feature loaded App support HAs in-built hard water treatment and filtration Affordable
Cons:
Battery operated LED lights
6. Bestway Plug and Play Hot Tub
Last one on the list is the cheapest of them all. But, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s low on quality. Well, if you have a tight budget and still want to enjoy a hot bath in the tub relaxing and relieving, we think you should seriously consider this one. Bestway SaluSpa has amazing customer ratings mainly because of its functionality and ease of use. The 4 seater plug and play hot tub has 114 air jets and has 222 gallon capacity. The little tub can heat up your space at 104 degree F even when it’s freezing outside. But the best part is its portability. It’s lightest in weight in its category and with the easy-lift handles anyone can move it around. All you need to do is inflate and then deflate to store it away out of sight. There are digital controls for auto adjusting the temperature and the speed of the bubble jets. Also, there’s a power saving mode timer that automatically sets up the temperature beforehand ( 40 days in advance). It’s also equipped with an in-built chlorine dispenser to maintain a healthy level of chlorine at all times. And there’s an in-built cup holder too. Coming to its construction, the outer surface is made up of puncture resistant and UV 3x ply ensuring durability and stability. It comes with 1 years warranty on the spa pump and 6 months warranty on the liner. The only issues with this plug and play hot tub that you might face are space issues. Even though it claims to have seats for 4 adults, the space actually can fit 2-3 people comfortably. Best Features:
Seating Capacity: 4 Jets: 114 Construction: Laminate PVC Digital control panel: Temperature, LED lights, timer, intensity Power Connection: 110-120 V Maximum Heat: 104 degree C Dimensions: 71″L x 71″Wx 26″H Capacity: 222 Gallon
Pros:
Feature loaded Easy to move around Easy to store Uv resistant
Cons:
Limited space
Best Plug and Play Hot Tubs Buyer’s Guide
We have made a list that includes the most demanding plug-and-play hot tubs. There are fair chances that you will find one that suits your needs. But what makes one better than another? There are a few factors which determine its ease of use and functionality. But it can vary from one model to another. Let’s have a look at the deciding factors:
1. Capacity
Capacity is the most important factor of all. Here capacity means the maximum number of people it can fit. In general, the plug and play hot tubs have a capacity ranging between 2 to 6 people. However, these are just approximate values. In simpler terms, 6 people might fit in but 4 people would sit much more comfortably. To avoid space issues, it’s always recommended to buy something with larger capacity than you need. This way you can always welcome more people and have more space to enjoy yourselves.
2. Number of Jets
The number of jets can have an impact over how you enjoy your bath. But more doesn’t always necessarily mean better. These water jets give a nice massage and let you enjoy while being under the water. If you want a good massage look for more jets. If you ask, exactly how many jets are enough, well, there’s no strict rule. But to get an idea, divide the number of jet’s by the number of people. If the hot tub has 16 jets and you have 4 people to fit in. It means 4 jets per person. Along with the number of jets, you might also want to look for adjustable jets. Nozzles which allow you to control the intensity and direction of the water flow. If you want a full body massage, look for jets and lounge seats which have jets for target pain relief, from top to bottom.
3. Power Source Requirements
The best thing about plug and play hot tubs is that they are made to work with all the standard power outlets 110V/15A. Although, you should still check the power outlet requirements of the plug and play hot tub that you wish to buy. Installing a new power outlet of higher voltage can be expensive. So, take this into consideration to avoid unnecessary investments.
4. Heat Retention
The maximum heat plug and play hot tubs can reach is 104 degrees F or sometimes 105 degrees F. But there are too many factors that can cut down the spa’s ability to reach its maximum heating point. For instance, poor insulation and a poor quality cover can make your tub lose its heat much sooner than you would expect. There’s another factor that plays a major role in losing the heat faster, the climate. Hot tubs get heated much faster in summers and take longer time to heat as well as quickly lose the heat in winters. Still, all the factors begging constant, one should still search for a hot tub with good insulation and cover. Foam is the best material for preserving heat. The outer shell also has an impact. PVC, acrylic, laminate all are good choices.
5. Placement
Another benefit of having plug and play hot tubs is that they can be placed at any place where there is a power outlet. And besides, these tubs are not made to be cemented at one spot with electrical and water connection. Hence, they are portable and some even let you deflate and store away when not used. Plug-and-play tubs are also much smaller than traditional tubs. You can almost put them anywhere in your backyard on the pavement or wherever it fits. Just remember to get the measurements before the final purchase.
6. Additional Features
These features are not necessary to have but having them can give you a better experience.
Lights: Some plug-and-play hot tubs have LED lights. If you want to create a mood and enjoy a spa bath, LED lights are a must. Some even have controls to adjust the colors and light effects. Lounge Chairs: A few plug-and-play hot tubs have lounge seats with premium quality headrest and water jets for targeted areas. If you are buying the tub to relieve the day’s pressure, the lounge chair makes sense. Waterfall Jets: This is purely an aesthetic feature. It looks great in an outdoor pool or in an area surrounded by plants. However, it only comes with the most expensive models. Cupholders: Some models have dedicated cup holders while others have side tables for your drinks and beverages. Look for a plug-and-play hot tub with cupholders if you want to have drinks while enjoying the evening bath. Covers: A cover will help you preserve the heat for longer. But it also has other uses, like it will keep the bugs and debri away from your tub and will also prevent the curious pets from falling into the pool, Controls: You will find two types of controls in the plug-and-play hot tubs, analog and digital. The digital dials have more controls, they are advanced and easier to operate. Digital control panels might come only in expensive models. It might let you adjust the temperature, intensity of the jets. LED lights and set timers for scheduled hearings. Some even connect to your smartphone for easy operation. On the other hand analog dials are simple dial controls that might provide lesser controls but work just fine. If you are not on a tight budget, an analog control panel is not a bad choice. Water Pump: The water pump power measures in horsepower (HP). This power determines how strong the water circulates through the nozzles or jets. Usually, most plug-and-play hot tubs have 1 HP, but a few have more power. Powerful pumps have a forceful through of water and are better at massages but they also consume more electricity. If you are concerned about power consumption it’s better to take something that is eco-friendly.
Conclusion
We hope that the buying guide made it easier for you to decide on the one that can make your life easier. But if you still can’t which one better for your use then follow the below-mentioned suggestions:
If you want a full value for money then look no further and go with Essential Plug and Play Hot Tub which comes with 20 jets and 2 variable speed pumps. It’s made in the USA and takes only 12 hours to heat up the tub at 104 degrees F. Also, it has got amazing customer reviews on amazon. If you are tight on budget then go with LifeSmart Plug and Play Hot Tub which comes with 9 jets and can comfortably fit 4 people in it. It’s energy efficient and retains the heat well. If you want the best and are ready to spend as much as you need then go with Essential 50 Plug and Play Hot Tub which is a 6 seater plug and play hot tub with 50 massage jets. It has different seating with different kinds of massage therapy including a lounge seat that has a total of 15 jets. It is the most powerful spa therapy that powers with 5 HP and 240 volt.
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