Swim spas are moderately sized jetted tubs that have ample space for aqua exercise, and also feature a current that you can swim against. Hot tubs are smaller in size, don’t have a current, but instead have jets that swirl and bubble around you as you relax. The biggest difference between the two other than swim and exercise capability is going to be size and cost. Let’s explore which type of tub will be the best fit for you. 

Which is Better: A Swim Spa or Hot Tub?

One option isn’t necessarily better than the other, it comes down to what you intend to use your tub for. Swim spas are much larger than hot tubs, but not as large or anywhere near as expensive as a swimming pool. Hot tubs mainly focus on providing comfortable seating and access to different jets, while swim spas are mostly open with a tank area designed for swimming in place, exercising or playing with kids. While both types of tubs do come in different sizes, and can both be installed indoors or outside, in-ground or above-ground, a swim spa is always going to be larger than a hot tub. 

Although both swim spas and hot tubs have many features in common like ergonomic seats and hydrotherapy jets, the two main things that set them apart are a swim spas open, large tank area, and its high powered current propulsion system. Swim spas are created with water based recreation as their primary use, while hot tubs are designed with relaxation as their main purpose. If you can’t decide between the two, there are swim spas available that also have an end dedicated as a hot tub with seats and a separate temperature control, truly the best of both options combined in one tub. 

Although sometimes marketed as a swimming pool alternative, swim spas are nothing like swimming pools; they are smaller, cheaper, easier to install and maintain and can even be moved. Because a swim spa features a jet propulsion system, they are a little bit more expensive than hot tubs, but both are much less expensive and easier to maintain than an in-ground pool. Both swim spas and hot tubs can be installed indoors or outside and will have different size and seating options. Hot tubs range to accommodate 2 to 6+ people, while most swim spas will have 2-3 seats, or 3-5 in a larger model. 

Should I Buy a Hot Tub or a Swim Spa?

The biggest differentiating factor between choosing a hot tub or a swim spa will likely come down to its intended use and where you plan to install it. If you’re looking for an open tub environment to exercise or play with your kids, a swim spa might be a perfect fit, but if you’d prefer a place to relax and listen to music or read a book, a hot tub might be your best bet. Remember that you can also get a swim spa that has an additional hot tub area included if you want the best of both worlds. Both swim spas and hot tubs can also usually be moved if you end up buying a new house and want to take your tub with you. 

The location you have in mind for your tub could potentially be a limiting factor. Do you have room on your patio, deck or in your yard? Will your deck or patio need to be reinforced to hold the weight of a tub? Do you need to pour a concrete pad or create some sort of base first? Remember that you’ll need to periodically drain your tub to clean it and that water will need to go somewhere. If you’re looking to install your tub inside, will the shell fit down stairs, around a corner or into the space and is there adequate ventilation, drainage and protection inside of your house for it? 

While there isn’t a huge price difference between hot tubs and swim spas, especially because there are so many different models to choose from, swim spas in general will be a little more expensive than hot tubs. Remember to include additional costs such as pouring a concrete slab, putting up a fence, filling and periodically draining/refilling your tub and purchasing additional accessories like a cover into your budgeting. 

If you’d like some help determining which type of tub is right for you, we’re happy to help, give us a call at 970-879-4390 or contact us here.