Intex Greywood Deluxe vs Simple Spa: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Comparison

The quest for the perfect backyard sanctuary often leads to one inevitable question: Which inflatable hot tub offers the best bang for your buck? In the blue corner, we have the Intex Greywood Deluxe, a model that screams sophistication with its wood-grain aesthetic and wireless tech. In the red corner, we have the Intex Simple Spa, a rugged, value-driven contender designed for those who prioritize durability and simplicity over flashy extras.

If you’ve been wondering are inflatable hot tubs worth it, the answer usually lies in the specific model you choose. A high-end model can feel like a permanent installation, while a budget model serves as the perfect entry point. In this exhaustive comparison, we’re peeling back the vinyl to see which of these two Intex titans deserves a spot on your patio.

Quick Comparison Table: At a Glance

Before we dive into the nitty-grey-wood-gritty, let’s look at how these two models stack up on paper. While they both hail from the same manufacturer, their target audiences are worlds apart.

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Deep Dive: Aesthetics and Design Philosophy

When you choose a hot tub, you aren’t just buying a vessel of hot water; you’re buying a centerpiece for your garden. The Intex Greywood Deluxe is widely considered one of the best blow up hot tubs for visual appeal. Its printed grey wood grain mimics the look of a premium Scandinavian spa, similar in vibe to the Lay-Z-Spa Helsinki. It’s designed to blend into modern decking and outdoor furniture seamlessly.

The Simple Spa, conversely, takes a “no-nonsense” approach. It features a visible mesh exterior. While it doesn’t have the high-definition print of the Greywood, that mesh serves a functional purpose: it provides an extra layer of protection against scratches and punctures. It’s the “off-road vehicle” of the hot tub world—it might not be the prettiest at the gala, but it’s built to survive the elements.

The Lighting and Atmosphere

The Greywood Deluxe pulls ahead significantly in the “vibe” department. It comes standard with a multi-colored LED light that illuminates the water from within. When combined with the best hot tub scum absorbers to keep the surface clear, the night-time aesthetic is hard to beat. The Simple Spa does not include an LED light, meaning you’ll have to purchase one separately if you want that evening glow.

Structural Integrity: Fiber-Tech vs. Reinforced Mesh

One of the most common questions we see is how good are inflatable hot tubs when it comes to sitting on the edge? The Greywood Deluxe uses Intex’s patented Fiber-Tech construction. This involves thousands of high-strength polyester fibers that don’t stretch over time. You can literally sit on the side of a Greywood Deluxe without it buckling.

The Simple Spa uses a different strategy. While it still features sturdy internal ribbing, its main selling point is the reinforced mesh exterior. This makes the outer wall feel slightly more “industrial.” If you have pets or live in an area with sharp debris, the Simple Spa’s exterior might actually offer more peace of mind, even if it lacks the rigid “luxury” feel of the Fiber-Tech interior found in the Greywood.

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Technology and User Experience: Control at Your Fingertips

The Greywood Deluxe is a technological marvel in the inflatable world. It features a removable, wireless charging control panel. You can take the panel into the water with you, change the temperature, or activate the jets without having to stand up and reach over the side. This is a massive “quality of life” improvement that many users don’t realize they need until they have it.

The Simple Spa keeps it traditional. The control panel is built into the pump unit. It’s digital and easy to use, but you will have to reach out of the tub to adjust your settings. For those who want to “set it and forget it,” this isn’t a dealbreaker. However, if you’re comparing Intex PureSpa vs Coleman SaluSpa, you’ll notice that the Greywood’s wireless panel is a standout feature across the entire industry.

Hard Water Treatment

The Greywood Deluxe includes a built-in hard water treatment system. This system generates an electromagnetic field that agitates calcium and other minerals, preventing them from creating scale buildup in the heater and pipes. If you live in an area with hard water, this feature alone could save you from frequent Intex PureSpa troubleshooting sessions later on. The Simple Spa lacks this internal system, requiring more diligent chemical management.

Performance Evaluation: Heat, Jets, and Bubbles

Both tubs operate on a standard 110-120V outlet. If you’re wondering are 110V hot tubs any good, the answer is yes, but they require patience. Both models will heat the water at a rate of about 2-3°F per hour.

• The Greywood Experience: With 140+ bubble jets, the massage is surprisingly vigorous. The bubbles are released from the bottom ring, creating a “cauldron” of relaxation that covers the entire floor area.
• The Simple Spa Experience: With 100 bubble jets, it’s slightly less intense, but still very effective for muscle relaxation. It’s perfect for a hot tub soak after a workout.

Regarding electricity, both will impact your utility bill. We recommend reading our guide on do inflatable hot tubs use a lot of electricity to understand how to optimize your heating cycles. Using the best hot tub covers and hot tub pads is essential for both models to retain heat and lower costs.

Maintenance and Longevity: Keeping the Water Crystal Clear

Maintenance is the same for both, but the Greywood’s hard water system gives it a slight edge in component longevity. Regardless of the model, you must master inflatable hot tub maintenance to avoid common pitfalls like slime and cloudy water.

You will need a reliable hot tub water tester to check pH and chlorine levels daily. If you find yourself asking why does hot tub water get cloudy, it’s usually a sign that you need to learn how often should you shock a hot tub. Generally, a weekly shock is necessary to kill off biofilm in hot tubs.

Don’t forget the filters! You should know how often to replace hot tub filters—usually every 2 weeks with regular use. To keep the bottom of your tub free from grit and sand, investing in the best hot tub vacuums is a game-changer for both the Greywood and the Simple Spa.

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Pros and Cons: Head-to-Head

Which One is Right for You?

Choose the Intex Greywood Deluxe If…

You want the best inflatable hot tub of 2025 in terms of style and tech. It’s for the user who wants to entertain guests, appreciates the luxury of a wireless remote, and lives in a hard-water area. It’s the closest you can get to a permanent spa experience in an inflatable format.

Choose the Intex Simple Spa If…

You are looking for a “workhorse” tub. If you have kids or dogs that might be rough on the exterior, the reinforced mesh is a winner. It’s also the perfect choice for budget-conscious buyers who want the health benefits of hydrotherapy without the premium price tag. It’s arguably the best 4-person inflatable hot tub for those prioritizing utility over vanity.

Both models can technically be used in cooler weather, but if you’re serious about year-round soaking, check our guide on the best inflatable hot tub for winter to see how they compare to specialized winter models like the Helsinki.

The Verdict: Greywood Deluxe Wins on Tech, Simple Spa Wins on Value

If you have the budget, the Intex Greywood Deluxe is the superior machine. Between the wireless panel, the hard water system, and the elegant wood-grain finish, it offers a more complete and luxurious experience. It’s an investment in your home’s relaxation potential.

However, if you want a reliable, durable soaking experience without the “frills,” the Intex Simple Spa is a phenomenal entry-level choice. It provides the same core benefits—hot water, bubbles, and stress relief—at a price point that is hard to argue with.

Whichever you choose, remember that the secret to a long-lasting tub is maintenance. Keep your filters clean, your chemicals balanced, and your water tested. Your body (and your wallet) will thank you.