In the market for the best hot tub? We can hardly blame you – owning a hot tub doesn’t just add style points to your garden, but it’ll get you top marks while hosting. Hot tubs aren’t just for summers in the garden, they can also be a hit in winter if you want to add an après-ski vibe to your outdoor space. And you can find one for as cheap as £379.99 – and that’s not even the sale price.
Thanks to the launch of inflatable hot tubs many years ago, the market is now saturated with options. It’s a good thing for those who aren’t so keen on a permanent fixture in their back garden, or if you need something small and moveable (once empty!) to fit around your gorgeous garden furniture set. Plus, let’s not forget that there are lots of designs of inflatable hot tubs available, so whether you want something black to fit with your garden design or a wooden option for the Scandi vibes, there’s plenty of choice.
Unfortunately, there’s more to consider than design – but not to worry as that’s where our experts come in. I’ve solicited help from reviewers to test the best hot tubs in the UK for 2025. This includes newly launched hot tubs, inflatable hot tubs from market leader Lay-Z-Spa, and even a foam option if you want something slightly more luxe than an inflatable tub.
Our team of reviewers have tested and compared ease of assembly, capacity, thermal efficiency and ease of use, as well as the looks and prices of all the top models, so you don’t have to. Here are our top recommendations for the best hot tubs to shop for a spot of winter soaking.
The quick list
Short on time? This quick list is an overview of the best hot tubs on the Ideal Home team’s radar. You’ll find more information on each outdoor spa and why our testers recommend it if you keep on scrolling.
1. Lay-Z-Spa Miami AirJet
Best inflatable hot tub
Rated our best hot tub for 2025 – and the best budget hot tub at less than £400 – it’s nice and compact, making it perfect for tiny gardens and smaller families, plus it’s so easy to use. While it lacks Wi-Fi control, you can set it on a timer to heat. Capacity: 2-4 person. RRP: £379.99.
Read more below
Best rigid foam hot tub
This large hot tub is stylish, Wi-Fi-connected and easy to set up. Its foam construction makes it comfortable for 5-7 adults, this also makes it 60% more energy efficient than an inflatable equivalent. Though this does come at a hefty price tag. Capacity: 5-7 person. RRP: £899.
Read more below
3. Lay-Z-Spa Zurich EnergySense
Best small hot tub
Designed for two to four people, it offers the same energy-saving design and basic features s the Miami. Still, it’s easy to use with a smaller footprint that’s perfect for tiny gardens. It’s also wrapped in a stylish grey faux suede design. Capacity: 2-4 person. RRP: £599.
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Best hot tubs tried and tested
Best inflatable hot tub overall
The Lay-Z-Spa Miami has taken over our top spot as the best inflatable hot tub you can buy in 2025 – and our best budget hot tub as it costs just £379.99. Our tester Annie loved reviewing this hot tub, and she particularly raved about its easy and fast setup. If you’re a first-timer looking for a hot tub and don’t want to spend a fortune or get yourself too overwhelmed and confused, then take a glance at the Miami AirJet. Once filled and the heater was turned on, Annie noted that every hour, this hot tub heated between 2°C and 2.5°C. Once heated to 40° and switched off, it had dropped to 35° within one hour and 30 minutes – but its temperature soon stabilised as 12 hours later and overnight, it had only dropped from 40° to 29°C.
For an incredibly decent price, you get most of the bells and whistles included with the Miami AirJet. In the box comes a specially-designed lid, which helps to keep the heat in. Size-wise, it’s perfect for small gardens. It can easily fit two to three adults or two adults and two children. It could fit four adults, but you’d be cosy. Fitted inside you’ll find 120 air jets that you can control from its pump. This same pump lets you put the tub on a timer, too, while it also allows you to heat the tub to 40°C. Also integrated into the pump’s design are two handy cup holders.
Extra features include FreezeShield (which protects it in the winter from cold temperatures). Perhaps the only downfall of the Miami AirJet is that it cannot be WiFi-controlled like other, more expensive models. While this didn’t bother our tester and actually, she found it less confusing to use only via the pump, for some, it might be important. Also, do note that you can set it on a timer to preheat when it suits you. Its black-and-white design might be considered boring for anyone who wants their tub to stand out, but for most people, it’s the perfect option to blend into an outdoor space. With a white interior and a classic blue and white tiled pool floor, you can’t really go wrong. This hot tub is the smallest on our list, with a diameter of 180cm (not including the pump). It also holds a lot less water than the others, at 669L, which is something to bear in mind when it comes to emptying and refilling, which is required every two to three months. This also makes it the cheapest on our list to run and heat.
Best rigid foam hot tub
Setting up the Lay-Z-Spa Toronto was relatively painless – all in, it took just under two hours. The thermal foam panels are lightweight yet sturdy and slot easily into the tough TriTech liner, which has a stone-grey finish that blends well with most garden spaces. Once filled with roughly 1,300 litres of water, it took around 6 to 8 hours to reach 38°C. Our tester Jenny reviewed it only a few weeks ago, at the start of spring, and also noted that once its temperature reached 40°C and after being switched off, it stayed within the 40°C-35°C margin for four to five hours. And 12 hours after being switched off, its temperature was still reading 27°C.
What really sets Toronto apart is its sturdiness. Unlike inflatable hot tubs, the rigid foam construction gives it a much more solid, supported feel – this definitely makes a difference when you’re sitting in for longer sessions. It’s marketed as a seven-person tub, but in reality, five adults fit comfortably, six at a squeeze, and seven would be elbow-to-elbow. Price-wise, it feels like good value considering the build quality and overall experience, and it’s much sturdier than standard inflatables without straying into premium price territory.
Feature-wise, it’s surprisingly well-equipped. The integrated UltraFit heater and filter system is neatly housed, so you’re not sacrificing extra garden space, and the dual jet settings let you pick between a gentler soak or more vigorous bubbles. The built-in WiFi is a real bonus, being able to switch it on via the app and have it bubbling away ready when you walk through the door is genuinely handy. Its faux wood design might not be for everyone because of its inner water-effect lining (it wasn’t to my taste), but it does look more realistic than the Lay-Z-Spa Helsinki.
Where the Toronto earns its stripes is in energy efficiency. It’s up to 60% more efficient than an inflatable hot tub thanks to the rigid ThermaCore insulating foam. Add to that a power-saving timer, insulated lid and thermal top cover, and it all helps keep the heat in and running costs down. If you’re looking for a roomy, robust and easy-to-use spa that doesn’t guzzle energy, the Toronto ticks a lot of boxes, even if it is larger than others, so it requires a whopping 1,300L of water.
Best small hot tub
While our reviewer Annie loved testing the Lay-Z-Spa Zurich and still uses it to this day, she did note that the setup was particularly difficult. Mostly because it arrived to her with a missing part so it took longer than the 10 minutes it claimed to. Boasting inflatable walls, it took roughly an hour and a half to fill, as it requires around 669 litres of water. Once filled, she noted that on average, it took one hour to heat 2°C. On the flip side, once the heating was turned off, its temperature dropped by around 1°C every hour. She reviewed it in August 2022.
The thing we loved the most about the Zurich was its ability to retain heat and therefore preserve energy. In the box comes a specially-designed EnergySense™ lid and liner, both of which make it 40% more energy efficient than other hot tubs. This is the same as our top pick, the Miami. In fact, the Zurich and Miami are almost exactly the same hot tub, the only thing that sets them apart is design – the Zurich being grey instead of black. Thanks to this cover, our tester Annie noted that once the heating was. Size-wise, if you only have a small outside space to squeeze a hot tub into, or there are only two of you who will be using it, then like the Miami, this is a great option. While it says it seats two to four people, we think it’s a better option for two adults and a couple of kids. Or three adults max. Four adults could fit, but you’d need to get close.
When it comes to features, it admittedly doesn’t wow you as much as newer hot tub models. It does have FreezeShield to protect it from freezing in the winter, and we’ve already mentioned its energy-efficient cover and liner, but other than that, the only other features it boasts are two cup holders built into its pump. Unfortunately, the Zurich isn’t Wi-Fi compatible, so you won’t be able to control it via your smartphone, which for some, could be a game-changer.
Though do note that it offers a timer on its pump, so you can set it to turn on to heat whenever you need it to. Otherwise, if Wi-Fi connectivity doesn’t bother you, then go for this, especially if it’s on sale at the time of purchase. Its grey suede-effect design might not be for everyone, but it’s inoffensive, and inside the tub, there’s your classic blue and white tiled pool floor. We suggest that when purchasing, if you also like the Miami, then do a price comparison for both the Miami and the Zurich, and also consider design. Otherwise, the same amount of water and space is required for both.
Best large hot tub
Whilst this is still an inflatable hot tub – and so benefits from being easy to set up, quick to dismantle, and easy to store – Lay-Z-Spa’s Helsinki is different. Its innovative thin-walled rigid design means that despite its outer dimensions measuring small, its inner dimensions are far bigger, allowing for an impressive 1,123 litre water capacity and space for five to seven adults. While we’re yet to test this one, it gets top marks for design, comfort and features from thousands of shoppers. We’ve rated it our best large hot tub, especially if you are on a budget.
This spa is the same size as our top pick, the Miami, which fits 2-4 people, but because of its thinner walls, it can fit more water and therefore more people. Though both spas have a diameter of 180cm, the Miami can only fit 669 L of water while the Helsinki requires 1,123 L. The Miami fits 2-4 adults. Now let’s compare it to the foam option from Lay-Z-Spa, the Toronto. The Helsinki is a tiny bit smaller in both diameter (10cm difference) and height (6cm difference), but if your water bill is a concern, it holds significantly less water – 1,300L vs 1,123L – which is worth considering when it comes to emptying and refilling. Both the Toronto and the Helsinki spas fit 5 to 7 adults.
Feature-wise, there are 180 air jets to ensure everyone gets some therapeutic massaging bubbles. Plus, like most Lay-Z-Spa hot tubs, it also comes with anti-freeze technology plus an inflatable lid with safety lock clips. Because it’s an older model, this lid doesn’t boast the same energy-efficiency technology. ChemConnect makes dispensing chlorine into the tub simple. Unfortunately, it cannot be controlled by Wi-Fi, but it does offer timer settings.
Design-wise, we love it: the printed wood-effect exterior makes this tub look more stylish than most, plus it offers built-in cup holders. Unfortunately, its modern-looking thinner walls do mean it offers less insulation. It used to be one of the most expensive inflatable hot tubs on the market, but now that it lacks Lay-Z-Spa’s latest thermo-efficient insulation, the price has come down considerably, making it a good value spa if you’re looking for a spacious tub with plenty of room to stretch out and splash about. So, if you can’t quite fit the Toronto in your garden, then consider this one.
Best hot tubs – final verdict
|
Name |
Capacity |
Size |
RRP |
Energy efficiency |
Wi-Fi controllable? |
Jets |
Extra features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. Lay-Z-Spa Miami AirJet |
2-4 / 669L |
H66cm x D180cm |
£379.99 |
N/A |
No |
120 |
EnergySense™ lid with safety lock clips. FreezeShield. Built‑in cup holders. |
|
2. Lay-Z-Spa Toronto |
5-7 / 1,300L |
H190cm x D70cm |
£899 |
60% |
Yes |
180 |
EnergySense™ lid with safety lock clips. FreezeShield. Built‑in cup holders. Wi-Fi Compatibility. ThermaCore walls for 60% more heat retention. 5 padded pillows. |
|
3. Lay-Z-Spa Zurich EnergySense |
2-4 / 669L |
H66cm x D180cm |
£559 |
40% |
No |
120 |
EnergySense™ lid with safety lock clips. FreezeShield. Built‑in cup holders. |
|
4. Lay-Z-Spa Helsinki |
5-7 / 1,123L |
H66cm x D180cm |
£729.99 |
N/A |
No |
180 |
FreezeSheild. ChemConnect chemical dispenser. Built-in cup holders. |
Where to buy a hot tub
How to choose the best hot tub
Want to add a hot tub to your outside space but not sure where to start when shopping? We’re here to help with our guide to the key things to look out for before you buy.
Types of hot tub
There are four main types of hot tub you will need to decide between before you shop.
Inflatable hot tubs
At the lowest end of the price scale are inflatable hot tubs. These are relatively cheap, portable, easy to deflate and store, and simply plug into an outdoor power socket.
An inflatable hot tub tends to range from £300 – £1200, depending on its size and specifications. Inflatables are the most hassle-free option that tends to fit most sizes of outdoor space. Our round-up predominantly features the best inflatable hot tubs for this reason.
Rigid foam hot tubs
Next up, there is the new breed of rigid foam hot tubs. These aim to strike a balance between a budget-friendly inflatable and a more expensive static resin spa.
Made from foam sections, they are easy enough to self-assemble, but do take more time to set up and dismantle and require more storage space than an inflatable option. The bonus is that they look a lot less like a giant paddling pool, are sturdier and less vulnerable to punctures, and tend to offer more space inside.
Resin or plug-and-play hot tubs
Further up the price scale are more substantial wood or resin plug-and-play hot tubs. These can cost anywhere between £1500 – £5000 and generally offer more durability and greater functionality, whilst still offering the relative ease of plugging into an outdoor socket.
Technically, they’re still portable, although they don’t tend to be dismantled, so you’ll need somewhere spacious to store one if you don’t want to leave it outside all year round, and good access to get one into the garden in the first place.
Built-in hot tubs
And then, there are built-in hot tubs that require professional electrical installation and a permanent site in the garden. These require much more commitment and a lot more cash to install, with prices depending on contractors and how much landscaping you require. However, as these hot tub decking ideas show, they can provide a statement focal point in an outside space.
Hot tub size
Once you’ve decided on a rough budget and, therefore, the type of hot tub that’s best for your outdoor space, next up is considering how many people you’d like to be able to use the hot tub at once.
At this point, it’s very important to note that manufacturer guides on how many people a hot tub can hold are, in our experience, always very ambitious. If a hot tub is marketed as being a four-person hot tub, then although it will be physically possible for four adults to squeeze in, it’s likely to be much more of a squash than you may be comfortable with, so generally speaking, you’ll want to size up if you can.
Whilst a six-person hot tub may sound extravagant if you’re a family of two adults and two kids, it’s still going to be a much more relaxing experience if you all want to enjoy the jacuzzi at once.
Hot tub water capacity
A good way to get a true gauge of a hot tub’s size, beyond how many people the manufacturer optimistically claims it will fit, is to check out its water capacity.
This measures how many litres of water the hot tub will hold, with a small two-person hot tub tending to be under 700 litres and a larger six-person hot tub coming in around the 1000-1200 litre mark, and a four-person hot tub somewhere in between.
When considering water capacity, it’s also worth noting that the larger the water capacity, the longer the hot tub is likely to heat up from cold, and the more energy it will require to maintain the temperature of that larger volume of water.
So if there will only be two of you using the hot tub, you’re best opting for a smaller hot tub rather than wasting energy heating up a six-person model.
Hot tub energy efficiency
There’s no denying that incorporating a hot tub into your garden ideas is going to increase your energy usage during the times that you want the water heated. However, there are ways to make your hot tub usage more energy efficient.
In an attempt to lessen the environmental impact of hot tub energy use, and make daily running costs cheaper, more hot tubs are now available with energy-saving features, such as inflatable lids that help to maintain the water temperature when the hot tub isn’t in use and more thermo-efficient sides and bases to prevent heat loss.
A growing number of retailers are also starting to provide estimates of how much their hot tubs cost to run, such as this breakdown of Lay-Z-Spa running costs, making it easier to find a more energy-efficient model.
Bear in mind that older hot tub models are less likely to have had energy efficiency factored into their design, whereas newer models may cost a little more but will have all of the latest technology built in.
Things to consider when buying a hot tub
There are so many things to consider before buying a hot tub, but most importantly of all comes safety. Hot tubs should not be heated above 40°C, and most of them won’t reach temperatures higher than this. It also states in hot tub manuals that they are not to be used by children under 8. If they are, water should not be higher than 36, and the time they spend in there should not exceed 15 minutes.
Before the first use of your hot tub, you’ll need to add a shock dose of chlorine and also perform a series of tests to determine whether the water is safe. Each time you add a chemical, you should allow at least 2 hours between that and the next. Invest in a hot tub starter kit to make things a little easier, and refer to Lay-Z-Spa’s guide if you’ve invested in one from them. This guide is handy as it tells you how much of each chemical you need to use based on which hot tub you own. Essentially, it means you needn’t do the maths yourself.
It’s recommended that you test your hot tub chemicals twice weekly, and also just before use. Failure to test and maintain your hot tub will result in not only the growth of bacteria in the water, but it could also lead to skin irritation. This can also affect the hot tub itself; unbalanced chemicals can lead to corrosion, and it can affect the heat pump, pipes and liner. It’s also recommended to drain the water and change it every 2-3 months, so bear this in mind when it comes to your water bill.
There are several long-term costs to consider before purchasing a hot tub, and these go beyond chemicals, filters and energy and water consumption. Also, consider that you might need to invest in replacement parts should yours break for whatever reason. Luckily, these don’t tend to be too expensive, depending on what you need to replace. For built-in hot tubs, it’s recommended to get a yearly service to ensure all parts are working as they should and to prevent any minor damage from becoming severe.
Lastly, not everyone should use a hot tub. It explains in each manual that you should avoid bathing in hot tubs if you have certain health conditions. These include but are not limited to cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure and diabetes.
FAQs
Do hot tubs use a lot of electricity?
In our tests of some of the leading thermo-efficient hot tubs on the market, such as the Lay-Z-Spa Barbados Inflatable Hot Tub and the Wave Osaka Rigid Foam hot tub, our reviewers found that their electricity bill increased by approximately £2-3 per day if they had the hot tub running continuously at a 40°C heat. These tests were conducted in May and June 2023 when the price per pence/kWh of electricity was 34p.
You can find the latest estimated running costs in our regularly updated guide to how much it costs to run a hot tub.
However, how much electricity a hot tub uses will depend on a number of hard-to-pin-down factors, including the hot tub’s water capacity (more water means more energy required to heat it), whether you keep the lid on to insulate the hot tub when it’s not in use, the ambient outdoor temperature and whether your hot tub is positioned in a sheltered or exposed spot, plus plenty more variables.
Are inflatable hot tubs worth it?
In our opinion, yes, an inflatable hot tub is a great way to cash in on the hot tub fun without the hassle or expense of installing a hardshell or resin outdoor spa.
An inflatable hot tub is usually super quick to inflate and set up yourself, and is especially useful if you have a small garden, as it can be drained, deflated, and stored away easily when it’s not in use.
And whilst they’re not cheap, with prices starting from around £300 for a two-person inflatable hot tub – and often a lot less if you can snap up one of the best hot tub deals – then they are by far the most affordable way to recreate some spa day relaxation at home.
How we tested
You’ll find full details of the Ideal Home review process on our how we test page.
When it comes to our hot tub review process, we solicited help from a few team members and their gardens. These team members were given a specific hot tub to test, and they used it in their garden, in a real-life setting, over two weeks. The factors we consider and test while reviewing a hot tub are:
- Unboxing and box contents
- Assembly and setup time
- Hot tub fill time (this is also dependent on water pressure)
- Heat-up time (this is also dependent on outdoor temperature)
- Design and comfort
- Ease of cleaning and maintenance
- Energy efficiency, by testing how much the temperature drops while the lid is on over 12 hours, and how long it takes to drop from 40°C to 35°C
- Price point
- Size in comparison with how many litres of water is required
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If there are any products that we haven’t managed to test in person, or the product didn’t achieve over 4 out of 5 stars, then they won’t have an Ideal Home Approved badge. However, you can rest assured we’ve done thorough research on their technical specifications and read multiple happy – and not-so-happy – customer reviews to narrow down our suggestions to only the best-in-class. We’ve tested 3 out of 4 of the hot tubs in this guide, with more reviews to come.
Hot tub testers
Other hot tubs we’ve tested
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