When investing in a hot tub, choosing the right brand is just as important as selecting the right size or features. We often get asked which brand is better at Love’s Hot Tubs: Artesian Spas or Nordic Hot Tubs. The truth is that both brands are excellent, but they cater to different preferences, lifestyles, and budgets. In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into the strengths, differences, and value each brand brings to your backyard sanctuary.
Design & Aesthetics
Artesian Spas:
Artesian Spas, the epitome of luxury, are renowned for their premium, modern design with sophisticated finishes and elegant cabinetry. These spas, often featuring LED lighting, cascading waterfalls, and sleek touchscreen controls, offer a visual experience that is second to none. With multiple collections, from the opulent Artesian Elite to the more budget-friendly Garden Series, each spa is crafted to elevate the visual appeal of any outdoor space. If you appreciate a spa that looks good and exquisite, Artesian Spas are the perfect choice.
Nordic Hot Tubs:
In contrast, Nordic Hot Tubs are a testament to simplicity and functionality. Their more traditional and rugged designs come with fewer bells and whistles. However, Nordic offers aesthetic options like faux wood panels and rounded corners for a classic look. For homeowners who value practicality over flashiness, Nordic Hot Tubs provide a humble, reliable design that blends well with various outdoor environments. With Nordic, you can be confident in the reliability and durability of your hot tub, making it a secure investment for your home.
Our Take: Artesian wins regarding luxury aesthetics, while Nordic keeps things clean and understated.
Hydrotherapy Experience
Artesian Spas:
Artesian Spas are engineered for an elite hydrotherapy experience. Their patented Helix Jet System targets key muscle groups and delivers a spiral stream of water for deep tissue massage. Some models come with the DirectFlow™ Personal Control System, allowing each seat to have its own dedicated pump and individual controls—a feature rarely found in the industry. Artesian is a game-changer for muscle relief, stress reduction, and a spa experience mimicking professional massage therapy.
Nordic Hot Tubs:
Nordic offers a unique DTS (Dual Therapy System), which combines powerful jets and a whirlpool therapy effect. The system is designed to create an even, penetrating massage that relieves tension throughout the body. While Nordic may not customize Artesian, its hydrotherapy is robust, consistent, and highly effective, particularly appreciated by people dealing with chronic pain or sore muscles.
Our Take: Artesian provides a customizable, high-end hydrotherapy experience. Nordic is excellent for reliable, deep muscle relief at a more accessible price point.
Energy Efficiency & Insulation
Artesian Spas:
Energy efficiency is at the core of Artesian Spa design. These spas minimize operational costs with full-foam insulation, high-efficiency pumps, and eco-friendly construction. Many models also come with advanced covers and energy-efficient lighting, reducing electricity usage without sacrificing performance.
Nordic Hot Tubs:
Nordic Hot Tubs are equally impressive in efficiency, especially in colder climates. They also use full-foam insulation and energy-efficient components, ensuring low running costs year-round. Nordic is particularly known for its performance during harsh winters, making it a favorite in northern regions.
Our Take: Both brands excel in energy efficiency. Nordic might have a slight edge if you’re in a cold-weather climate.
Design & Aesthetics
Price Range & Value
Artesian Spas:
Artesian models, especially the Platinum and Elite Series, are in the higher price range. You’re paying for luxury, high-tech features, and design. These spas are ideal for homeowners seeking a long-term wellness investment who don’t mind spending more on top-tier quality.
Nordic Hot Tubs:
On the other hand, Nordic Hot Tubs are a mid-range priced option. They offer fewer features than Artesian but still deliver high-quality hydrotherapy and reliability. Their value lies in their simplicity and durability, making them an ideal choice for first-time spa buyers or budget-conscious homeowners. With Nordic, you can enjoy the benefits of a hot tub without breaking the bank, making it a financially responsible choice.
Our Take: Artesian is a luxury investment. Nordic is a value-packed choice for those seeking excellent performance without premium pricing.
Build Quality & Durability
Artesian Spas:
Crafted with precision and premium materials, Artesian Spas are built for longevity. Every element, from the reinforced shell to rust-proof frames and durable cabinetry, is made to last. Artesian also uses high-grade components in its plumbing and electronics, reducing maintenance issues.
Nordic Hot Tubs:
Nordic focuses on simplicity, which adds to their reliability. With fewer electronics and mechanical components, less can go wrong. The shells are rotationally molded, offering incredible durability and resistance to cracking, even under extreme temperature fluctuations.
Our Take: Artesian offers high-end, long-lasting construction. Nordic is nearly indestructible thanks to its molded shell design and simple systems.
Dealer Network & Customer Support
Artesian Spas:
A wide dealer network backs Artesian and provides excellent customer service. Most Artesian models have a generous manufacturer’s warranty, including shell, surface, and component protection. Replacement parts and maintenance support are easily accessible.
Nordic Hot Tubs:
Nordic also provides strong dealer support and warranties. Their customer service is known for being responsive and user-friendly. Since the systems are simpler, they’re often easier to troubleshoot, and parts are more affordable to replace.
Our Take: Both brands excel in customer support, with Nordic offering simpler, more affordable maintenance in the long run.
Lifestyle Fit
Artesian Spas:
These spas are perfect for the homeowner who wants a spa that functions like a luxury retreat. Artesian is your brand if aesthetics, advanced features, and therapeutic performance are non-negotiable. These spas are designed for frequent use, wellness routines, and a true at-home spa experience.
Nordic Hot Tubs:
These are great for families, couples, and individuals who want a durable, easy-to-maintain hot tub that gets the job done. They are ideal for people who love to soak after a long day but don’t need elaborate tech features or complex controls.
Our Take: Artesian is for luxury seekers. Nordic is for practical relaxation lovers.
Artesian Spas:
It offers a wide range of sizes, from compact 2-person models to large 9-person party spas. Seating is often ergonomically sculpted, and some models include loungers for full-body hydrotherapy.
Nordic Hot Tubs:
It also offers a variety of sizes, though typically with a more open, barrier-free bench design. This is great for flexible seating and social interaction, but it may lack Artesian’s specialized hydrotherapy seating.
Our Take: Artesian offers more diverse and ergonomically specialized seating. Nordic excels in social, open seating flexibility.
Technology & Smart Features
Artesian Spas:
They are known for their advanced tech options, such as touchscreen control panels, Bluetooth audio systems, Wi-Fi connectivity, and water management systems that reduce maintenance.
Nordic Hot Tubs:
It focuses more on ease of use than tech bells and whistles. The controls are intuitive and straightforward, with fewer features to manage.
Our Take: Artesian is ideal if you value mart features and convenience. Nordic is better if you prefer simple, hands-on control.
Water Care & Maintenance
Artesian Spas:
Often includes built-in ozone generators, UV-C sanitation, and multistage filtration systems to minimize chemical usage and keep water cleaner longer.
Nordic Hot Tubs:
A simpler water management system that requires more manual oversight but is easy to understand and maintain.
Our Take: Artesian minimizes upkeep with high-end sanitation. Nordic is straightforward and low-cost but more hands-on.
The Bottom Line: Which One Should You Choose?
Let Love's Hot Tubs Help You Decide
Still weighing your options? Our friendly and knowledgeable team at Love’s Hot Tubs is here to guide you every step of the way, from exploring models to finding the perfect fit for your lifestyle and budget. Whether you’re drawn to Artesian’s luxury or Nordic’s simplicity, you deserve a spa that fits your needs and feels like home.
Do you have questions, or are you ready to get started? Visit our Contact Us page and send us a message. We’ll respond quickly with expert guidance tailored to your needs.
For more details on specific models, visit the official brand sites: