What is the difference between a swim spa and a hot tub?

They are related, but they are built for different jobs.

• Purpose: A swim spa produces a current for swimming, running, and resistance work. A hot tub produces targeted jet massage while you sit.
• Temperature: Swim spas are usually kept between 80F and 90F so you can exercise without overheating. Hot tubs run 100-104F.
• Size and water volume: Swim spas commonly hold 1,500-3,000 gallons versus roughly 300-500 for a hot tub, so heating, filtration, and chemical demand are all larger.
• Cost: Swim spas typically start where premium hot tubs end.

Some dual-zone swim spas split the cabinet into a cool swim area and a separate hot seating area with its own heater and controls. That is the only way to get both temperatures at once in a single unit.