Bathtubs Compared: Acrylic vs. Solid Surface vs. Whirlpool vs. Air

A new bathtub is one of the few bathroom purchases you will live with for decades, so it pays to know what you are really choosing between. We carry 175 bathtubs across seven styles and materials, from simple alcove soakers to stone resin centerpieces, jetted spa tubs and walk-in tubs with a built in seat. This guide explains what separates each type, who it suits, the trade-offs, and real pricing from our current catalog. You will also find a comparison table, measuring and installation tips, care advice, budget planning and an FAQ.

Freestanding Acrylic Tubs (48 models, from $765)

Our most popular style. A freestanding acrylic tub is a single reinforced molded shell that stands on its own. Most of our Woodbridge models use high gloss LUCITE acrylic reinforced with Ashland resin and fiberglass. The Woodbridge acrylic soaking tubs in this collection run from $765 to about $1,098, with lengths from 48" up to 72".

Who it suits: homeowners who want a standalone centerpiece without paying a premium, and remodels where the floor cannot take a very heavy tub.

• Pros: light and easy to carry upstairs, warm to the touch, glossy finish, the widest choice of sizes and shapes, and the lowest price for a freestanding look.
• Cons: the surface can scratch more easily than stone resin, and a thin wall loses heat faster than a thick solid surface tub.

Examples: the Woodbridge B0014 59" Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub (from $776) offers 14 1/2" of water depth to the overflow and a 57 gallon effective capacity in a compact footprint. For taller bathers, the Woodbridge B0013 67" Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub (from $821) holds about 60 gallons.

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Solid Surface (Stone Resin) Tubs (24 models, from $1,479)

Solid surface tubs are cast from a stone resin composite, giving a heavier, more substantial feel with a soft matte, stone like finish. Our Solid Surface collection runs from $1,479 to $3,060, and we also carry Castello USA stone resin tubs starting at $1,379 in the full bathtub catalog. Finish options include matte white, matte black, matte black with a white interior, and cream on select models.

Who it suits: anyone building a design focused bathroom who wants a tub that feels like a piece of furniture and stays warm through a long soak.

• Pros: thick walls hold heat longer, the surface resists scratches and stains, and minor marks can often be buffed out with extra fine sandpaper. Many models are deep: several hold 70 gallons or more.
• Cons: roughly double the price of a comparable acrylic tub, and much heavier. Most Woodbridge solid surface tubs weigh around 250 to 380 lbs empty, so floor strength and delivery access matter.

Examples: the Woodbridge EST0016 59" Stone Resin Freestanding Bathtub (from $1,479) comes in three matte finishes. If depth is the priority, the Woodbridge MST0805 71" Solid Surface Freestanding Bathtub ($1,965) has 19-5/8" of water depth to the overflow and a 91 gallon effective capacity.

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Whirlpool Tubs (49 models, from $1,000)

Whirlpool tubs use a pump to push water through adjustable jets for a firm, targeted massage. Most are Atlantis Whirlpools models built to order, plus Woodbridge and Cascada options. Prices run from $1,000 to about $4,195. Many include a heater: some are maintenance heaters that help hold water temperature, and some Woodbridge models use an inline heater that brings water to 100°F.

Who it suits: people with sore muscles, athletes.

• Pros: the strongest massage of any tub type, jets you can aim, and a huge range of sizes, including corner and oversized two person shapes.
• Cons: needs dedicated electrical circuits and service access to the pump, and the jet lines need periodic cleaning because some water can remain in the plumbing between uses.

Examples: the Atlantis Whirlpools Mirage 36 x 60 Whirlpool Tub ($1,749) has eight adjustable jets, a maintenance heater, about 50 gallons of capacity and a 135 lb shell. For a standard alcove, the Woodbridge BS429 60" x 32" Alcove Whirlpool Tub (from $1,554) adds nine adjustable jets, an inline heater and chromotherapy lighting.

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Air Tubs (20 models, from $1,665)

Air tubs use a blower to release thousands of fine bubbles through small air jets for a softer, quieter, full body massage. We carry 5 air only tubs from $1,665 and 15 combination tubs that pair whirlpool jets with an air system, from $1,920 to $4,998.

Who it suits: bathers who find whirlpool jets too intense, and anyone who wants a gentle spa feel with simpler upkeep.

• Pros: a gentle massage, and easier to keep clean than whirlpool systems since there is no standing water in jet lines between uses. Combination tubs let you choose either massage.
• Cons: the bubbles can cool the water slightly faster, the massage is less targeted, and you still need a dedicated GFCI circuit.

Examples: the Woodbridge B0102-C 59" Freestanding Air Bubble Tub ($1,665) has 208 air jets and 7 color chromotherapy lighting. The Woodbridge BJ100 59" Whirlpool and Air Bath Freestanding Tub (from $2,165) combines 6 body jets, 10 whirlpool bubble jets and an inline heater.

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Alcove Tubs (5 models, from $598)

Built to fit into a three wall alcove, the standard tub and shower combo setup. Our Woodbridge alcove soakers run from $598 to $776 and come in 54" x 30", 60" x 30" and 60" x 32" sizes, each with a left or right drain option, and most include a three sided tiling flange to keep water out of the wall.

• Pros: the most budget friendly option, fits existing plumbing and enclosures, and doubles as a shower base.
• Cons: less of a design statement, and the size is set by your existing opening.

Examples: the Woodbridge TB-6032 60" x 32" Alcove Soaking Bathtub ($598) uses a strong, lightweight composite. For smaller rooms, the Woodbridge BA5430 54" Alcove Soaking Bathtub ($665) adds molded armrests and an integral front skirt.

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Clawfoot Tubs (5 models, from $876)

Classic slipper style tubs with ball and claw feet or a pedestal base, for a vintage look. Heavy duty acrylic construction keeps the price far below cast iron and the weight manageable. Ours run from $876 to $1,198 in lengths of 54", 59", 67" and 69-1/4".

• Pros: timeless style, a raised slipper back for reclining, and easy to place without walls.
• Cons: exposed plumbing is visible, so plan for a freestanding filler and a finished supply line.

Examples: the Woodbridge B0021 54" Acrylic Slipper Clawfoot Tub ($876) fits compact bathrooms, and the Woodbridge B1539 69-1/4" Double Slipper Pedestal Tub ($1,198) weighs just 113 lbs.

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Walk-In Bathtubs (16 models, from $2,520)

Walk-in tubs have a watertight door and a built in seat, so you step in instead of climbing over a high wall. We carry 15 Meditub models plus one Cascada model, from $2,520 to $6,275. Most Meditub tubs can be ordered as a soaker, whirlpool, air, or whirlpool and air tub, with left or right drain and white or biscuit color.

• Pros: safer entry for seniors and anyone with limited mobility, a comfortable seated soak, a built in grab bar, and sizes that drop into a standard 60" alcove.
• Cons: you sit inside while the tub fills and drains, and they cost more than a standard tub.

Examples: the Meditub 3060WI 30 x 60 Walk-In Bathtub (from $3,890 as a soaker) fits a 60" alcove with a 16.75 in. seat and an inward swinging door. For wheelchair users, the Meditub 3060WCA Wheelchair Accessible Bathtub (from $4,733) has an 11.5 in. seat height and an outward swinging door.

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Bathtub Types Side by Side

How to Measure for a New Tub

1. Alcove openings: measure wall to wall at the back, middle and front of the opening. Most alcoves are 60" long, and alcove tubs are typically 30" or 32" wide. Note whether the drain is on the left or right as you face the tub.
2. Freestanding tubs: allow open floor space around the tub so you can clean behind it and reach a floor or wall mounted filler.
3. Bather size: compare interior length and water depth to the overflow, not just exterior size. A 59" tub suits most average height bathers. Taller bathers usually prefer 67" to 72".
4. Delivery path: measure doorways, hallways, stair turns and the bathroom door. Large tubs ship on a pallet and must fit through every opening.

Installation Considerations

• Plumbing: confirm the drain location matches your rough-in, or budget for moving it. Freestanding tubs need a floor or wall mounted filler, and some tubs ship without a drain kit.
• Floor load: a solid surface tub plus a full fill of water can weigh well over half a ton. On upper floors or older homes, have a contractor check the joists.
• Electrical: jetted tubs need dedicated GFCI circuits installed by a licensed electrician. Requirements vary: the Woodbridge BS429 calls for two dedicated 15 amp 120V GFCI breakers, while the BJ100 calls for one dedicated 120V 30 amp breaker. Meditub soakers need no power, while air or whirlpool models need a 15 amp GFCI circuit. Always follow the spec sheet.
• Service access: plan an access panel for jetted tubs so the pump, blower and heater can be reached later.
• Warranty: some manufacturer warranties, including Woodbridge, apply to installs done by a licensed, insured contractor, so keep your paperwork.

Materials, Care and Cleaning

Acrylic and gel coat clean easily with mild soap and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive pads and harsh solvents that can dull the gloss. Solid surface is tougher: everyday cleaning is the same, and light scratches can often be buffed out with extra fine sandpaper. For whirlpool and combination tubs, run a jet cleaning cycle with a cleaner approved by the manufacturer on a regular schedule to flush the lines. Air tubs are simpler: just wipe the jets and panel. For walk-in tubs, keep the door seal clean so it seals reliably.

Budget Planning

The tub is only part of the cost. Set aside money for a faucet or freestanding filler, a drain and overflow kit if one is not included, plumbing changes, electrical work for jetted models, and installation labor. Shipping is free on orders of $1,500 and up, and freight items under that amount ship at a flat tiered rate. Large tubs ship by freight, so arrange help to move the tub into place. Inspect the packaging and the tub before you sign for it, and note any damage on the delivery receipt. Every product we sell is brand new with full manufacturer warranty, and Shop Pay installments are available to spread out the cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is solid surface worth the extra cost over acrylic?

If you value heat retention, a matte stone look and a surface you can renew, yes. If budget, weight or an upstairs install matters more, acrylic delivers a similar shape for roughly half the price.

What is the difference between whirlpool and air jets?

Whirlpool jets push water for a strong, targeted massage. Air jets release fine bubbles for a softer, full body feel. Combination tubs offer both.

Do jetted tubs need a dedicated electrical circuit?

Yes. Jetted tubs call for dedicated GFCI protected power. The exact number of circuits and amperage depends on the model, so check the spec sheet before you hire an electrician.

Can I put a freestanding tub in place of an alcove tub?

Often, yes, but you will usually need to move the drain, add a filler, and finish the walls and floor where the old tub sat. If you want to keep the shower, an alcove tub is simpler.

Will a walk-in tub fit my existing tub space?

Many will. Several Meditub models are sized for 60" alcoves, and compact models in lengths such as 38", 39" and 40" suit tighter rooms.

Which should you choose?

If budget matters most and you want a classic standalone tub, go acrylic freestanding. If you want a heavier, more substantial feel that holds heat and you do not mind paying more, go solid surface. If you want a spa style soak, choose whirlpool for a stronger massage or air for something gentler and easier to clean, or a combination tub if you cannot decide. If you are replacing a tub inside an existing shower enclosure, alcove is your most practical option. For vintage charm, a clawfoot tub fits the bill, and if getting in and out safely is the priority, a walk-in tub is the right call. Questions about sizing or fit? Contact us or call (213) 398-8885, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm EST. We are happy to help.