I looked at hard tubs for a few years but I kept coming back to the Softub. Living in the northeast I don't want to keep it outside in the winter, so the portability of the tub is our primary consideration, and the cost of operation is secondary. It is a real popular tub for people who have camps so they can continue to enjoy the tub off season. I recently purchased a new 2004 tub. I wanted the 220 size but found a great deal on a new, in the box,of Softub 140. It is only 10 inches smaller than the 220 and since our space is small it works better. Not the best choice for two large males, but I am 5'3" and I can stretch out and float. The foam sides and bottom make it surprisingly comfortable. While neither the two smallest sizes have a seat, you can buy a seat/back pillow that you fill with water but it is not necessary for comfort. The pillow can be a booster seat for a child. The 4 jets are strong and you can position the flow where you want it. We have one pulsating jet. You can adjust air flow if you don't want it strong. The newer models have a variety of jets so it is something to look into. I purchased the tub for my arthritis in my lower back and since buying the tub I have not needed to take anti-inflamatory medication as often and with less pain am able to sleep better. The lids on the newer models have been improved to have a lip for better fitting, meaning less heat loss. One of the adavantages of the tub is you can order parts and fix it yourself. If you don't want to, you can ship the power pack to the nearest authorized repair site, saving a service call. I'd check on where the nearst repair site is to you. If you need the tub re-skinned you can do it yourself, or take it to the closest site. Shipping the tube itself to a repair site could be expensive.