Plug-and-play vs inflatable hot tubs – which is best?

A two-panel image showing the difference between Plug-and-play vs inflatable hot tubs: a plug-and-play hot tub in a garden; an inflatable hot tub in a garden surrounded by decking.

If you're in the market for a hot tub but can't stretch to the tens of thousands of dollars you need for a premium inground tub, you face a choice between plug-and-play vs inflatable hot tubs.

Inflatable tubs are hundreds of dollars cheaper but seem a little flimsy. Hardshell plug-and-play hot tubs are packed with features but feel pretty expensive.