Swim Spa vs Hot Tub
Wondering if a swim spa or hot tub is better for your needs?
If so, you've come to the right place! There are benefits to each of these units, and we hope we can answer all of the questions you have!
For those totally new to the idea, swim spas are like portable swimming pools, using current jets that allow users to swim in place. These units are great for those who want to blend exercise with hydrotherapy.
Hot tubs are jetted tubs without any currents, great for relaxation, conversation, and hydrotherapy.
Continue reading as we take you through the main differences of each so you can make your final decision with confidence!
Price Differences
Because swim spas are larger and offer many of the same advantages of a swimming pool and a hot tub with the addition of year-round use, they are often more costly than average hot tubs.
However, compared to your average swimming pool, you'll still spend much less and get more out of it!
On average, swim spa models range from about $15,000 to $35,000, depending on the brand, size, and features. Depending on the quality and size, hot tubs range from around $2,000 to $20,000.
In the end, the cost of a unit will depend on the features, materials, and size of your hot tub or swim spa. So make sure to carefully consider your budget before buying and compare different models to find the one with the best mix of features for the right price!
Of course, the last thing you want to do in a purchasing situation is to overpay for your hot tub or swim spa. Instead, you want to invest in a long-lasting, quality product that gels with your lifestyle!
Luckily, we provide a unique service that matches you with hot tub and swim spa manufacturers based on your personal preference! Click on the button below to compare multiple quotes and save money!
Hot Tub Maintenance vs. Swim Spa Maintenance
The maintenance needs for hot tubs and swim spas are basically the same, as both of these units require weekly maintenance.
You'll need to test your water each week, clean your filters each month, and drain/clean your spa about four times per year.
It's also essential that you keep your covers clean!
The maintenance needs are slightly more involved than a traditional swimming pool, though it's nothing overwhelming.
In Use
There are many reasons why one might choose a swim spa over a hot tub. For starters, if you're thinking about buying a swim spa, it's probably because you want the exercise benefits they offer. In many ways, hot tubs are one-trick-ponies, great for relaxation after a long day of work.
Before you go out on the hunt for different swim spas and hot tubs, you'll want to determine which of these units best fits your needs and lifestyle.
Let's go over some reasons you might choose one over the other.
Swim Spas
Swim spas offer powerful jets that create currents you can go swimming in. Unlike a regular pool where you have to swim laps, swim spas offer the convenience of swimming in a straight line for as long as you want!
Plus, these two-in-one products typically offer hot tub-style soaking areas, giving you the benefits of exercise and relaxation in one convenient package.
Even beyond going for a swim, you can practice low-impact exercises in your swim spa, perfect for rehabilitation, or those who want to go for a walk or run yet can't because of their joints.
Swim spas are also great for those looking to throw a pool party without a traditional swimming pool! Simply turn off the current so the whole family can relax, just like you would in an above-ground pool. Swim spas are a lot like swimming pools in that you can keep them cool during the summer, giving the kids the perfect place to swim around and hang out!
Of course, in the end, you need a large outdoor living space to host a swim spa, as these units can get quite large. However, with the benefits of water exercise and warm water hydrotherapy packed into one unit, you'll be set for a long time!
Hot Tubs
Hot tubs come with jets that deliver relaxing massages to soothe sore muscles and loosen up any mental, emotional, or physical tension you might be holding onto. If you have a smaller outdoor space or don't need the added exercise benefits, then a regular hot tub might be all you need!
One thing to note is that hot tubs come in various shapes and sizes! For example, you can get a two-person tub perfect for couples or solo soaks, which is especially helpful if you don't have a massive outdoor area.
However, you can also go for a larger hot tub with enough room for your entire family or group of friends. Even large hot tubs aren't as big as swim spas, though that doesn't mean you can't move around in them and socialize.
Plus, hot tubs offer a great space to stretch and perform strengthening exercises, especially if you don't crank the heat up. Just a slight bit of heat can make your muscles far more flexible, making your stretching exercises far more effective.
Final Thoughts - Is A Hot Tub or Swim Spa Right For Me?
So, should you go for a hot tub or a swim spa?
Well, the answer depends on your budget, your needs, and your space.
If you like the idea of having a unit that can offer the benefit of exercise along with warm water hydrotherapy, then you should look at swim spas and head over to our Best Swim Spa Reviews article. They're a lot like swimming pools, though packed with far more features, perfect for those who lead a fitness-centric lifestyle.
Of course, if you're into the idea of soaking in hot water and enjoying high-quality hydrotherapy jets, then a hot tub is probably the better choice! See our Best Hot Tubs article for the highest rated brands.
We hope that this small guide helped solidify your decision, happy soaking!
And be sure to fill out the form below if you'd like low price quotes. Our prices are specific to what you're looking for and your location. We save shoppers tons of time and money. Start today!
