The Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa is one of the best inflatable hot tubs (opens in new tab) thanks to its winning combination of hydrotherapy and all-out carefree fun, with features to help you feel like you’re at a spa. You won’t need to worry about purchasing add ons with this inflatable either, as it already comes with built-in headrests and a pretty LED light. So if you want to splash out on something to impress your guests, the Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa tub might be the one for you.
As with the more compact models in our guide to the very best hot tubs (opens in new tab), the main drawback of the Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa is that it only seats four people, which may not suit a large family who likes to entertain. However, it does keep the cost within a reasonable range, so you won’t have to break the bank to install one in your backyard.
Capacity: 210 gallons
Maximum temperature: 104 degrees
Number of persons: 4
Number of jets: 104
Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa review: Overview
The Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa measures 77 inches wide and 28 inches deep, putting it in the mid-range in terms of size for tubs of this type. Four people should fit comfortably within it, though there are only two headrests included, so you may have to flip a coin to see who gets those. A couple may still want to opt for this model and have more space to kick back in, as well as space for any guests who are lucky enough to be invited.
There’s also a focus on durability here. This starts with a puncture-resistant three-ply laminated material built to prevent any disasters, yet it still maintains a comfortable surface for relaxing in. In terms of capacity, the Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa is capable of holding 210 gallons of water and can heat up to temperatures of 104 degrees.
Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa review: Features
Finding a quality inflatable hot tub with fun features built-in can be a challenge, as there isn’t as much scope as with a permanent tub to fit in those extra touches. That’s why the Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa would be a great option for anyone looking for a little bit more excitement without having to make other purchases on top.
The first feature that makes this PureSpa stand out from the rest is its high number of jets. 140 jets, to be exact, so there’s certainly an emphasis on massaging and relaxing in a style that mimics proper tubs, yet at a fraction of the price. The bubbles themselves can be turned on by an easy-to-use control panel, so you’ll be able to enjoy a spa experience at the touch of a button. The panel itself is also tilt adjustable, so you don’t have to lean over your guests to get to grips with the temperature control or settings.
One feature that certainly ups the relaxation stakes is the two contoured headrests. As with anyone searching for an inflatable tub with seats, having this feature built-into the Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa is a bonus, as it means you don’t have to splash out on other headrests. This goes alongside the color-changing LED light within the model, which is bound to create ambiance and set the mood for any given situation. It’s worth noting that the light will need three triple A batteries to operate.
In terms of cleaning, a filter and two replaceable filter cartridges should help you keep the Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa looking and operating as if it was sparkling new. There’s also a floating chlorine dispenser, which is important for when you are retaining all the correct levels of chemicals within your water.
Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa review: Design
Comfort and durability are combined at the forefront of the Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa’s design. Their patented FiberTech construction aims to offer the best structural stability, without compromising on how the tub itself feels to sit in. This is provided by the PVC material, which is intended for use in any season, as well as providing enough sturdiness for users to perch on the edge when sitting out of the water.
The Intex PureSpa Plus falls down when it comes to seats, as it doesn’t have any built into its design. This shouldn’t prevent you from having a comfortable experience, especially given the extensive number of beams within the tub’s laminated surface. If you’re still looking for somewhere to sit, then attachable seats are also available to purchase (opens in new tab) on Amazon.
In order to keep as much heat in as possible when not in use, the Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa also comes with an insulated cover, as well as an insulated ground cloth. One safety feature that’s missing is clips for the tub cover, which are used on similar models to keep children from accessing the water when it isn’t in use.
Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa review: How it runs
A distinguishing feature in how the Intex PureSpa Plus runs is its built-in electronic hard water treatment system. This system reduces calcium build-up, which if left untreated could reduce the heating element’s efficiency. With it in place, you should reap the benefits of a gentler and longer-lasting spa experience.
Thanks to the Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa’s built-in inflation system, setting things up couldn’t be easier, so you can have that spa experience you’ve always longed for. Many customer reviews reference just how easy this tub is to get up and running, with Intex claiming it’ll be up and ready for water within just 20 minutes. That’s fast!
The package it comes with is quite extensive too. All in all you get the cover, heater, filter, two cartridges, two headrests, a thermal ground cloth, inflation hose, carry bag, and a floating chlorine dispenser. The carry bag is a bonus for anyone who wants to take their tub on vacation. The one thing we don’t like is the lack of built-in carry handles, so this inflatable will be more difficult to shift around your own garden. For an equally impressive tub with integrated handles, read our Coleman 90454 SaluSpa Hawaii AirJet review. The warranty of the PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa is one year, which is standard for models of this type.
Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa review: User reviews
Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon, gathered from 1,272 ratings globally. Many reviews commented on the ease of setup of this tub, as well as its high level of comfort.
One happy reviewer commented that “this tub has surpassed all expectations”, adding that “the bottom is amazingly cushy and soft, and the sides are soft enough to use them to lay back on”. Another said it was “life-changing” and gave them a “relaxing and comforting” space to sit in after work.
Less favorable reviews commented on how they found the temperature of the spa was prone to dropping once the jet function was turned on. One reviewer said, “Be advised that turning on the bubbles sucks in outside air to create them so this will reduce the water temperature a degree or two when you use them”. This is a common problem with other tubs of the same type, so you may have to compromise the amount of time you have your jets on.
Should you buy the Intex PureSpa Portable Bubble Jet Spa?
If you want a good quality tub with snazzy features which are ready to use as soon as your purchase arrives, then the Intex PureSpa Plus will tick all your boxes. Besides the LED light and armrests, there are also helpful cleaning features and a system to treat hard water.
Four people can fit within this tub, meaning that it’s a good size for small families, or for couples who want to capitalize on that extra legroom. Those with larger families may want to opt for something a little roomier, read our Bestway 54190E SaluSpa Helsinki AirJet review (opens in new tab), as that model can fit seven people.
Looking for more water therapy content? Then check out our guide to the best swim spas (opens in new tab).
