# Inflatable hot tub vs above ground pool

Source: https://bubbleandsoak.co.uk/blog/inflatable-hot-tub-vs-pool
Published: 2026-10-12
Publisher: Bubble and Soak

**In short:** An inflatable hot tub holds about 600 to 1,200 litres of water heated to up to 40 °C, so it can be used all year. An above ground pool holds far more water, is usually unheated and suits summer splashing and play. A hot tub can be run cooler in summer as a plunge, but it is too small to swim in. Choose a tub for year round soaks, a pool for summer play.

Inflatable hot tubs and above ground pools are sold side by side, and both promise a summer of fun in the garden. They are built for different things, though. A hot tub is about sitting in warm, filtered water, while a pool is about space to splash and play. This comparison looks at water volume, heating, footprint and upkeep, and answers a common question: can you turn the heater down and use a hot tub as a pool?

## The basic difference

An inflatable hot tub is a small, deep tub with insulated walls, a cover and a pump unit that heats, filters and powers bubbles. It is built to keep water warm all year round.

An above ground pool, such as a metal frame or quick set pool, is wider and holds much more water. Most come with a simple filter pump and no heater. They are designed to be filled in late spring and drained or winterised in autumn.

## Side by side

Exact volumes and depths vary by model, so always check the listing.

| Point | Inflatable hot tub | Above ground pool |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Typical water | About 600 to 1,200 L | Several thousand litres and up |
| Heating | Built in, up to about 40 °C | Usually none, or an add-on heater |
| Season | All year with care | Mostly summer |
| Depth | About 65 to 70 cm walls | Often 75 cm and deeper |
| Cover | Insulated lid included | Usually a simple debris cover |
| Who it suits | Adults relaxing, families | Children playing, cooling off |

Hot tub and pool at a glance

## Can you use an inflatable hot tub as a pool?

In warm weather, many owners turn the heater down or off and use the tub as a cool plunge. That works, but keep the filter running and sanitiser in range, because cooler water still needs treating. Some makers set a minimum temperature for the heater, so the display may not go as low as you expect.

It is still a small tub. Children can splash, but there is no room to swim, and adults should supervise children at all times. A filled tub is also deep for small children, so never leave the cover off when no one is watching.

Note: Never leave children alone in or near a hot tub or pool. Keep the cover locked when the tub is not in use, and follow the maker's temperature and safety guidance.

## Footprint, weight and base

A four to six person inflatable tub needs a space of about 2 x 2 m plus room to walk round. A pool needs a much larger level area. Both are heavy when filled, and pools in particular can damage lawns. Our [base ideas page](https://bubbleandsoak.co.uk/blog/inflatable-hot-tub-base-ideas) explains what to put under a tub.

Use our [water volume calculator](https://bubbleandsoak.co.uk/tools/water-volume-calculator) to compare litres and filled weight for any size you are considering.

## Upkeep and running

A hot tub needs water testing and sanitiser a few times a week, filter rinsing and a fresh fill every few months. Heating uses electricity all year. A pool needs the same water care in principle but in a larger volume, and usually only for the summer months.

If you plan to use it mostly in winter evenings, a hot tub is the only one of the two that makes sense. If you want a summer splash for children, a pool gives more space.

[Compare the best inflatable hot tubs](https://bubbleandsoak.co.uk/best/best-inflatable-hot-tubs)

## Which suits you?

- Year round warm soaks for adults: an inflatable hot tub. See our [2 to 4 person picks](https://bubbleandsoak.co.uk/best/best-2-to-4-person-inflatable-hot-tubs).
- Summer play for children with room to splash: an above ground pool.
- A bit of both: a hot tub run cooler in summer, accepting it is small.
- Big family gatherings: a 6 person tub, see our [6 to 8 person guide](https://bubbleandsoak.co.uk/best/best-6-person-inflatable-hot-tubs).

## Frequently asked questions

**Can I turn off the heater and use my hot tub as a pool?** Yes, many owners do in hot weather. Keep the filter running and the sanitiser in range, as cool water still needs treating.

**Is there a hot tub and pool combo?** Some products are marketed that way, but most are either a small heated tub or a larger unheated pool. Check the heater and water volume before buying.

**Which uses more water?** An above ground pool, by a wide margin. Even a small pool usually holds several times the water of a hot tub.

**Can children use an inflatable hot tub?** Follow the maker's age and temperature guidance, keep the water cooler for children and supervise them at all times.

## Buying guides on this topic

- https://bubbleandsoak.co.uk/best/best-inflatable-hot-tubs
- https://bubbleandsoak.co.uk/best/best-2-to-4-person-inflatable-hot-tubs
- https://bubbleandsoak.co.uk/best/best-6-person-inflatable-hot-tubs