Lay-Z-Spa Milan vs Honolulu: two 6 seat round tubs

Listing facts side by side

The table uses the facts given on each Amazon UK listing. Where a listing does not state something, it says not stated.

Size and seating

Both tubs are 196 cm across and 71 cm high, with 916 litres at the fill line. That is a comfortable size for four adults, with six as the stated maximum. Because the footprint is identical, the same base, ground mat and thermal cover size suit both.

If you are not sure whether six seats is right, compare with our 2 to 4 person tubs and 6 to 8 person tubs.

Jets: AirJet Plus vs AirJet

Both use air bubbles from a ring of holes around the floor. Bestway's AirJet Plus is the newer version of its bubble system, and the Milan's listing gives 140 jets. The Honolulu's listing gives a much lower jet figure, which may reflect how jets are counted rather than a real difference in bubble coverage, so check the box or Bestway's product page if this matters to you.

Neither has water jets. If you want hydro massage, look at HydroJet models such as the Hawaii; see AirJet vs HydroJet.

Liner, cover and chemicals

The Milan lists a Tritech liner, Bestway's three layer material made to resist punctures and abrasion, plus an inflatable cover and ChemConnect, Bestway's chemical dispenser. See chemical dispensers and ChemConnect explained.

The Honolulu's listing gives fewer details. Lay-Z-Spa tubs normally include a cover, filter and pump unit, but check the listing or box contents before ordering so you are not caught short.

Power and safety

Both run from a UK plug with the RCD supplied by Bestway. The heater and bubbles share the 13 A supply, so on many Lay-Z-Spa models the heater pauses while the bubbles run. Plan your soak around that.

Note:Hot tubs combine water and mains electricity. Use a weatherproof outdoor socket protected by an RCD, follow the maker's manual, and have any new circuit or socket fitted by a qualified electrician.

Which to choose

• Choose the Milan AirJet Plus for the fuller kit listed: Tritech liner, AirJet Plus and ChemConnect.
• Choose the Honolulu AirJet if you want the same size six seater with fewer extras, and the listing's contents suit you.
• For more models, see our Lay-Z-Spa models compared guide.

Setting up either tub

Set-up is the same for both. Clear and level the ground, lay the ground cloth and any insulating mat, unroll the tub, inflate the wall with the pump unit or a suitable pump to the firmness the manual gives, connect the pump unit and fill with a hose to the marked line. Then balance the water and let the heater bring it up to temperature with the cover on.

Because both hold 916 litres, heat-up from cold takes the same time on the same heater. Our heat-up calculator gives the minimum hours for your start temperature, and real times are longer in cold or windy weather. See how to set up an inflatable hot tub for the full routine.

Running and upkeep

Water care, filter cleaning and draining follow the same routine on both tubs. Test the water a few times a week, rinse the filter every few days, and change the water every few months or sooner after heavy use. A thermal cover and an insulating ground mat help either model hold its heat into autumn.

Spare filters, covers and repair kits for round Lay-Z-Spa tubs are widely sold in the UK, which is one of the brand's strengths. Keep the model number (60029 or 60019) handy when ordering parts.

Frequently asked questions

Are the Milan and Honolulu the same size? Yes. Both listings give 196 x 71 cm and 916 litres, with six seats.

Do they use the same filters? Most round Lay-Z-Spa tubs use the same type of filter cartridge, but check your manual for the exact part.

Can I use the heater and bubbles together? On many Lay-Z-Spa models the heater pauses while the bubbles run, to stay within a 13 A supply. Check your model's manual.

Which is better for winter? Neither is a dedicated winter model. Add a thermal cover and ground insulation, or see our winter guide.