Top 3 Inflatable Hot Tubs with Real Hydro Jets in 2023

Top 3 Inflatable Hot Tubs with Real Hydro Jets in 2024

Inflatable and hard-shell hot tubs are similar because they both provide relaxation and pleasure. However, their main difference is the lack of a strong massage effect from real hydro jets. It is a significant disadvantage for those who want a hot bubble bath and prevent or treat some diseases.

However, inflatable hot tubs with hydro jets are not a myth, so you can find several models on the market. We noticed that our readers are interested in them and compared all the available models, chose the top three inflatable hot tubs with hydro jets, found out whether their hydro jets are real, and calculated the cost of maintaining them.

Let’s get started!

Comparison Table of Inflatable Hot Tubs with Real Hydro Jets

ModelWinning categoryCharacteristics
Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii HydroJet Pro
Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii HydroJet Pro
The sturdiest & easiest to maintainAmazon rating: ⭐️ 4.3
Material: PVC
Size: 71 in. x 71 in. x 28 in.
Capacity: 4–6 people
Jets: 8 hydro jets & 140 air jets
Heating temperature: 104°F

What makes it the best
The easiest to maintain – automatic chlorine release due to the ChemConnect dispenser
The sturdiest – 3-ply DuraPlus PVC allows you to sit on the edge, so they do not buckle at all
The easiest to set up – 60% of users (10–50% more than other models) state that it is easy to assemble
Fast heating rate – heats water by 2–3ºF/hour
Cover with an aluminum layer

Detailed review
ModelWinning categoryCharacteristics
Bestway SaluSpa Santorini HydroJet Pro
Bestway SaluSpa Santorini HydroJet Pro
The most efficient massage effectAmazon rating: ⭐️ 4.3
Material: PVC
Size: 85 in. x 85 in. x 31.5 in.
Capacity: 5–7 people
Jets: 10 hydro jets & 180 air jets
Heating temperature: 104°F
What makes it the best
The most comfortable massage – the most number of jets allows you to get rid of stress, fatigue, and even problems with the musculoskeletal system
The roomiest – allows you to accommodate five people comfortably
The most extensive kit – the hot tub comes with five padded seats, a sleep mask, and ColorJet water-powered LED lights
Maintains temperature 20% more efficiently than others
Adjustable jets allow you to change the angle and speed of the water flow

Detailed review
ModelWinning categoryCharacteristics
Intex PureSpa Jet and Bubble Deluxe
Intex PureSpa Jet and Bubble Deluxe
The most comfortable hot tubAmazon rating: ⭐️ 4
Material: PVC
Size: 79 in. x 79 in. x 28 in.
Capacity: 4 people
Jets: 4 hydro Jets & 120 air Jets
Heating temperature: 104°F
What makes it the best
The most comfortable hot tub – soft floor, walls, and two headrests provide maximum comfort
The fastest heating rate – heats water by 3–4.5ºF/hour
The most efficient water filtration – the most powerful pump that filters up to 460 gallons of water per hour
The hot tub can be connected to Wi-Fi to set the timer and change the temperature remotely
A built-in saltwater sanitation system

Detailed review
There are even more hot tubs that are worth your attention. Check out our fullest review of all Intex hot tubs — you may find your favorite there!

Do Inflatable Hot Tubs Have Real Hydro Jets?

Do Inflatable Hot Tubs Have Real Hydro Jets?

The principle of hydro jets’ massage is based on the Venturi effect. The water passes through thick tubes at high pressure, so the flow rate is low. However, where the water enters the jets, the tube narrows, so the pressure decreases and the flow rate increases.

☝️ Tip:
We recommend you set the jets at an angle of less than 30° because, at a greater angle, a powerful stream of water can damage the skin and blood vessels.
Venturi effect in hydro jets
Venturi effect in hydro jets

Also, you may have noticed that the water stream is mixed with bubbles. Air is supplied to the jet of water through a separate tube, then the formed stream leaves the jets and creates an enhanced massage effect.

Verdict:
Bestway HydroJet and Intex’s PureSpa Jet & Bubble systems are also based on the Venturi effect. Therefore, inflatable hot tubs do have real hydro jets.

Cost of Using Hot Tubs with Hydro Jets

Additional pump for jets is the main reason why hot tubs with hydro jets differ in power consumption from models with air jets.

We can examine the difference in power consumption based on two models from Bestway: Hawaii HydroJet Pro and Hawaii AirJet, since their main characteristics are almost identical.

Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii HydroJet Pro

Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii HydroJet Pro
Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii AirJet
Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii AirJet

Water flow
Water flow
320 gal/hour320 gal/hour
Water capacity
Water capacity
210 gal222 gal
Capacity
Capacity
4–6 people4–6 people
Heating rate
Heating rate
2–3ºF/hour2–3ºF/hour
Weight (when filled)
Weight (when filled)
1,869 Lb1,938 Lb
Pressure
Pressure
0.08 Bar0.08 Bar

To calculate the energy consumption, we need to find out the power and multiply it by the number of hours:

Watts = Amps * Volts
Energy consumption = Watts * hours
ModelPower rateHeat Element PowerFilter Pump PowerMassage Tube PowerJet Pump Power
Bestway SaluSpa
Hawaii HydroJet Pro
110–120V, 12A at 68ºF
11.3A at 68ºF
(1,2kW)
0.7A
(84W)
6.5A
(780W)
12A
(1,4kW)
Bestway SaluSpa
Hawaii AirJet
110–120V, 12A at 68ºF
11.3A at 68ºF
(1,2kW)
0.7A
(84W)
6.5A
(780W)

If you use a hot tub from time to time, the heater should work for 9 hours to heat water from 86ºF to 104ºF. If you use your hot tub every day, you can leave it on and use a cover to save heat on 75% more efficiently. In this case, your hot tub will lose like 6ºF, so you will need to turn the heater on for 2–3 hours. Also, let’s take into account that you turn on air jets or air with hydro jets for 1 hour. The average cost of 1 kW/hour is 13.04 cents. In this case, you will get the following results:

ModelTotalCost per dayCost per month (everyday use)
Every day useBestway SaluSpa Hawaii HydroJet Pro4.8–6.1 kW per day$0.62–$0.79$18.6–$23.7
Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii AirJet3.4–4.7 kW per day$0.44–$0.61$13.2– $18.4
Time to time use (like 10 days per month)Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii HydroJet Pro13.8 kW per day$1.85 $18.5
Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii AirJet12.4 kW per day$1.62$16.2

To summarize, we can find out that the cost of running those types of jets is little. If you use it every day, the difference will be up to 10/month. That’s just 4 cups of Starbucks coffee per month. As for time-to-time use, the difference is only $2!

Important:
The heater and the jets cannot work simultaneously because both hot tubs are connected to a 110–120V socket, which cannot provide parallel operation. Therefore, we assumed that a hot tub runs 10 hours/day (9 hours for a heater and 1 hour for jets). However, if you have a 220–240V socket, your hot tub can run both together.

Top 3 Inflatable Hot Tubs with Hydro Jets in Detail

Inflatable hot tubs with hydro jets can diversify your leisure time. They can provide relaxation with an effective deep massage (like hard-shell hot tubs), which can help even with diseases of the musculoskeletal system.

Next, you can get acquainted with the three best models, each of which is a winner in a particular category: solidity, maintenance, massage effect, and comfort.

Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii HydroJet Pro – the Sturdiest & Easiest to Maintain

Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii HydroJet Pro

Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii HydroJet Pro

The sturdiest & easiest to maintain

Extended characteristics
Amazon rating: ⭐️ 4.3
Material: 3-ply DuraPlus PVC
Size: 71 in. x 71 in. x 28 in.
Capacity: 4–6 people (best for 4 people)
Jets: 8 hydro jets & 140 air jets
Timer: 1 hour – 40 days
Heating temperature: 104°F
Heating rate: 2–3ºF/h
Water capacity: 210 gallons
Water flow: 320 gallons/hour
Additional features: FreezeShield™ automatic heating function
Kit
2 ColorJet water-powered LED lights
Cover
Pump
5 padded pillows
ChemConnect™ dispenser
1 VI filter cartridges
Repair kit

Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii HydroJet Pro has the easiest maintenance. This hot tub has a ChemConnect system that dispenses chlorine automatically by dissolving 1″ tablets of chlorine or bromine. Also, this model, like the Bestway SaluSpa Santorini, has a FreezeShield that heats internal components to 50°F when ambient temperatures are below 42.8°F to avoid freezing water in the pipes, pump, and heater.

In addition, Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii HydroJet Pro is the easiest hot tub to install. Firstly, its weight is about two times less than the others. You can carry 76 lbs yourself, not 140+. Moreover, users note that the filling rate is 20 minutes, which is 35% faster than other models.

💡 Note:
To make hot tub maintenance even easier, we advise you to buy extra filters, change them every few days and check chemical levels using test kits. Thus, the water will be much cleaner and will not require a lot of chemicals.

In addition, this model has 35–50% faster heating rate than another Bestway model. Thus, the water will heat from 50°F to 104°F in 18–27 hours, not 27–54. Also, you can additionally purchase a mat that will prevent heat from seeping through the floor.

Verdict:
Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii HydroJet Pro is the best for those who frequently inflate/deflate the hot tub to remove or reinstall it, or those who don’t want/can’t spend a lot of time maintaining the hot tub.

Pros

  • The easiest to set up – automatically inflates using a spa heater and can be filled up in 20 minutes
  • The easiest to maintain – ChemConnect™ technology simplifies the process of adding chlorine, as you add up to four chlorine/bromine tablets, which will automatically release chlorine into the water
  • The hot tub cover is equipped with aluminum foil, which reflects up to 95% of heat and allows you to keep the water temperature more efficient

Cons

  • The chlorinator cannot work simultaneously with the heater, so you should switch them manually

Bestway SaluSpa Santorini HydroJet Pro – the Most Efficient Massage Effect

Bestway SaluSpa Santorini HydroJet Pro

Bestway SaluSpa Santorini HydroJet Pro

The most efficient massage effect

Extended characteristics
Amazon rating: ⭐️ 4.3
Material: 3-ply DuraPlus PVC
Size: 85 in. x 85 in. x 31.5 in.
Capacity: 5–7 people (best for 5 people)
Jets: 10 hydro jets & 180 air jets
Timer: 1 hour – 40 days
Heating temperature: 104°F
Heating rate: 1–2ºF/h
Water capacity: 314 gallons
Water flow: 320 gallons/hour
Additional features: FreezeShield™ automatic heating function
Kit
2 ColorJet water-powered LED lights
Cover
Pump
5 padded pillows
ChemConnect™ dispenser
1 VI filter cartridges
Sleep mask
Repair kit

Bestway SaluSpa Santorini HydroJet Pro provides the most effective massage effect. It has 180 air jets (10–50% more than other models) and 10 hydro jets (20–60% more than other models). Due to this, you can more effectively deal with the following problems:

  • Stress
  • Weak metabolism
  • Neuroses
  • Pain in the joints and back
  • Musculoskeletal diseases
  • Poor bad circulation

What’s more, you can enjoy the most effective massage with your mates, as this hot tub can comfortably accommodate five people, which is 1–3 more than the Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii HydroJet Pro and Intex PureSpa Jet and Bubble Deluxe. You can experience even more comfort due to the five height-adjustable seats that come with the set.
If you have any questions about how to set up the seats, or if you are not sure how to install or maintain the hot tub, you can refer to the instructions. It contains a wealth of helpful information, including required chemical levels, maintenance, and troubleshooting tips.

Verdict:
Bestway SaluSpa Santorini HydroJet Pro is the best for those who consider a hot tub for treating some diseases or relaxing in a big company.

Pros

  • The most efficient massage – has 180 air jets and 10 hydro jets, which is 20 and 2 more than the #2 model, so it is the best in eliminating stress, fatigue, and musculoskeletal system diseases and improves blood circulation
  • The roomiest – accommodates 20–40% more people than other models, so it’s great for parties
  • Users note that the hot tub loses no more than 4°F, which is 20% better than the rest

Cons

  • The manufacturer states that up to seven people can fit in the hot tub, but they will not sit comfortably, as they will feel packed like sardines. This hot tub is the best for five people

Intex PureSpa Jet and Bubble Deluxe – the Most Comfortable Hot Tub

Intex PureSpa Jet and Bubble Deluxe

Intex PureSpa Jet and Bubble Deluxe

The most comfortable hot tub

Extended characteristics
Amazon rating: ⭐️ 4
Material: 3-ply laminated PVC
Size: 79 in. x 79 in. x 28 in.
Capacity: 4 people (best for 2 people)
Jets: 4 hydro Jets & 120 air Jets
Heating temperature: 104°F
Heating rate: 3–4.5ºF/hour
Water capacity: 210 gallons
Water flow: 460 gallons/hour
Additional features: Wireless charging control panel (up to 48 hours on one charge)
Kit
Cover
Pump
2 headrests
Saltwater sanitation and hard water treatment system
2 VI filter cartridges

Intex PureSpa Jet and Bubble Deluxe is the most comfortable hot tub. The walls and floor of this model are both soft and durable, as they are made of high-strength fibers with PVC. Also, the manufacturers foresaw that discomfort in the neck may occur due to the soft walls, so they added headrests to the kit.

Besides, if you are in a comfortable position but need to change the settings on the control panel, you do not need to get up. Intex PureSpa Jet and Bubble Deluxe has a wireless control panel that lasts up to 48 hours on a single charge. Moreover, you can connect the hot tub to a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network to remotely control the heater, pump, and saltwater chlorinator.

As for the saltwater chlorinator, unlike the Bestway models , which chlorinator, according to user reviews, is not very useful, Intex made a worthwhile one. 80% of users report that it works and helps them use less harmful chlorine, which contains chloramine, a cause of “pool smell” and skin and eye irritation.

💡Note:
For the saltwater chlorinator, you need to use hot tub salt, which provides a natural chlorine release process that contains less chloramine.
Verdict:
Intex PureSpa Jet and Bubble Deluxe is the best for those who want to feel the ultimate relaxation with soft walls and headrests. The wireless control panel and saltwater chlorinator will also make it easy to use.

Pros

  • The most comfortable hot tub – it is the only hot tub, which comes with headrests
  • The fastest heating rate – heats water from 50°F to 104°F in 12–18 hours, which is two to four times faster than others
  • The most efficient water filtration – the pump filters 30% more water than other models, and it has two additional S1 filters in a kit

Cons

  • You can connect this hot tub to Wi-Fi, but it should be a 2.4GHz network
Love this model, but want to explore more? Our in-depth review of all Intex hot tubs is just what you need!

Hydro Jets vs. Air Jets

In our recent article, we described the difference between these systems and delivered a verdict. However, below we will briefly compare them in terms of the main indicators: massage type, cost of running, and cost of hot tubs.

Type
Air jets<br />

Air jets
Hydro jets

Hydro jets
Massage effectBubble jets are located at the bottom and release 1000+ bubbles that create a whirlpool effect, enveloping your body. It is called pearl massage and is used to eliminate fatigue, stress, tension, and weak metabolism.Hydro jets create a rapid water flow that exerts a point pressure on particular skin areas. Such a massage is ideal for relieving muscle tension, treating musculoskeletal problems, back and joint pain, and poor circulation.
Cost of running12.4 kW per day
$1.62 per day
13.8 kW per day
$1.85 per day
Hot tub costs with these jetsLow cost – $350
Mid-cost – $550
High cost – $1,050
Inflatable
Low cost – $500
Mid-cost – $800
High cost – $1,150

Hard-shell
Low cost – $2,400
Mid-cost – $6,500
High cost – $10,000
Verdict✅ They are the best for those who want
to relax in warm water.
✅ They are the best for those who want to
experience a strong massage effect and suffer
from musculoskeletal disorders.

* The difference in price and power consumption between inflatable hot tubs is minor, so when choosing jets, proceed from expectations regarding the massage effect.

The difference in price
💡Note:
You can find a deep comparison of air jets and hydro jets in our recent article. It will help you make a decision much easier.

Summary: Are They Worth It?

Inflatable hot tubs with real hydro jets can provide a strong massage effect that usual inflatable hot tubs are not capable of. Moreover, the difference in cost is little, as it is $100–$250 more expensive, and you get both air jets and hydro jets together.

There are not many models of inflatable hot tubs with real hydro jets on the market, so we conducted an in-depth analysis comparing each one with more than 20 key indicators and found out that three are absolute leaders.

See you in the next reviews!

FAQ

🏆 What is the best inflatable hot tub with hydro jets?

Our QC analysis has shown that Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii HydroJet Pro, Bestway SaluSpa Santorini HydroJet Pro, and Intex PureSpa Jet and Bubble Deluxe are the best inflatable hot tubs with hydro jets.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👧 Does more jets mean a better hot tub?

Yes, but there are other factors to consider as well. The first one is pump power. If you are choosing between two hot tubs with the same pump power but a different number of jets, consider one with fewer jets because it will have higher water pressure. The second factor is the location of the jets, as there may be a bunch of them, but they will not provide a massage.

🫧 How many jets should a hot tub have?

Inflatable hot tubs should have more than 110 bubble jets, inflatable hot tubs with hydro jets should have 2 hydro jets per person (if it is an inflatable hot tub with hydro jets), and hard-shell models should have a minimum of 6-8 hydro jets per person for an effective massage.

🧪 Can I run hot tub jets without heat?

Hot tubs that run on 110–120V outlets cannot run jets and a heater simultaneously.

❓ What brand of hot tubs have the most powerful jets?

According to our QC analysis, Intex has the most powerful hydro jets. However, Bestway is only one vote behind. At the same time, air jets are equally powerful for both brands.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Peter Rossi