Last updated: September 2026
I first gave the Balboa spaTouch Mini a quick look in a short first-look video. Then I got to try the full production model at the Piscina & Wellness Barcelona exhibition, where Balboa Water Group was showing its products. I had a good chat with one of their representatives, Jed, who gave me a walk-through of the spaTouch Mini.
So, is the spaTouch Mini worth it? Let’s dive in.
The short version
- What it is: Balboa’s smallest touchscreen topside, with a 2.8in colour screen in a panel not much bigger than a credit card.
- Works with: Balboa BP-series spa packs. Retailers say the pack needs system software 7.0 or later. It won’t work with VS, GS, EL or GL packs.
- Why I like it: it’s small enough to put almost anywhere, which makes it great for DIY tubs, and it looks smart.
- Use it as a second panel: on packs with a spare panel socket, it can sit alongside your existing topside.
- No WiFi built in: add a WiFi module, or look at the spaTouch 4 if you want app control in the panel.
Jed’s overview of the spaTouch Mini
Let’s start with Jed’s take. According to him, the spaTouch Mini is a compact, sleek control panel designed not only to look great but also to be flexible in where you install it. Unlike traditional controls, you can put the spaTouch Mini in more creative places, including corners, which gives you more freedom in your design.
Jed explained that the Mini builds on the design of the spaTouch 4, with some key improvements. The touchscreen has been improved for a better user experience, and the controls have been refined a lot. It’s clear Balboa has put real thought into both how it works and how it looks.
Key specs
| Feature | spaTouch Mini |
|---|---|
| Screen | 2.8in high-resolution colour touchscreen |
| Panel size | About 87 × 62mm (3⅜ × 2⅜in) |
| Cut-out | Roughly 72–73 × 50mm rectangular, with a round cut-out option listed by some retailers. Check the install guide before you cut. |
| Cable | About 2.1m (7ft), 4-pin Molex plug like other BP topsides |
| Protection | Fully potted electronics (sealed in gel), splash resistant |
| Wake-up | Tap to wake (three quick taps), so splashes don’t set it off |
| Compatible systems | Balboa BP series (BP200, BP501/601/6013, BP2000/2100, BP7, BP8) |
| Extras | Listed as working with Clim8zone heat pumps, ChromaZone lighting and the ControlMySpa WiFi module |
Sources: Balboa’s spaTouch Mini page, plus the listings on parts4tubs.co.uk, tubs.parts and SpaDepot. The part number is 57380 in Europe and 57381 in the USA, according to those retailers.
My thoughts on the spaTouch Mini
Here’s the thing: I’m a fan of the spaTouch Mini. In fact, I’m considering one for my own hot tub. The compact design and freedom in where you put it really caught my attention, because it opens up lots of possibilities for different tubs and setups. You’re no longer stuck putting the control in one specific spot. You can get creative with it, which makes it a great fit for DIY builds, where the “shell” might be tiles, timber or render rather than an acrylic lip.
From a looks point of view, the spaTouch Mini lifts the whole hot tub. It adds a modern, smart touch, and lets the keypad be a feature rather than something you hide away.
One practical note for DIY builders: think about where the cable goes before you tile or clad. A small panel in a tiled surround or timber skirt needs a neat cut-out, a sealed route for the cable back to the control room, and a spot you can reach from inside the tub. It’s much easier to plan that on paper than to drill through finished tiles.
Compatibility: a major plus
One of the biggest wins for me is compatibility, and Balboa has really nailed this. Balboa says the spaTouch Mini is fully compatible with all Balboa BP series control systems. You can swap any TP topside for a spaTouch Mini, or use it alongside your existing panel as a second controller, if your pack has a spare panel socket. Balboa also lists a splitter for the BP8’s panel connector. Either way, there’s no complicated installation.
A few things to check first:
- Your pack must be a BP. VS, GS, EL and GL packs need different panels. See Which Balboa topside control do I need?
- Software version. Retailers list system software 7.0 or later. If you have an early BP pack, check before you buy.
- WiFi. The Mini doesn’t have WiFi built in. For app control, add the ControlMySpa module (see my ControlMySpa review), or choose a spaTouch 4, which has it built in.
- Replacing a bigger panel? The Mini is much smaller than a TP600 or TP700, so you’ll need an adapter or trim plate to cover the old hole. Some retailers sell one.
spaTouch Mini vs TP700 vs spaTouch 4
| spaTouch Mini | TP700 | spaTouch 4 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen | 2.8in touch | 2.8in colour, buttons | 5in or 7in touch |
| Panel size | Tiny | Large | Large |
| WiFi built in | No | No | Yes (ControlMySpa) |
| Best for | DIY tubs, tight spots, a second panel | Anyone who prefers real buttons | Premium tubs and app control |
If you prefer buttons, my Balboa TP700 review is worth a read.
Final thoughts
To sum up, the Balboa spaTouch Mini has a lot going for it. Its compact size, improved touchscreen and broad compatibility make it a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their hot tub’s controls. Whether you’re building a new tub or upgrading an existing one, the spaTouch Mini is definitely worth considering.
Where to buy
In the UK, the Balboa spaTouch Mini is on parts4tubs.co.uk. In the USA, check parts4tubs.com for Balboa panels and packs.
If you’re building your own tub and want the panel, pack and plumbing planned out properly, my DIY hot tub plans give you the drawings and a full parts list.
FAQs
Is the spaTouch Mini compatible with my hot tub?
It is if your tub has a Balboa BP-series spa pack, such as a BP501, BP601, BP2000, BP2100, BP7 or BP8. Retailers say the pack needs system software 7.0 or later. It won’t work with Balboa VS, GS, EL or GL packs, or with other brands.
Can I use the spaTouch Mini as a second topside?
Yes, on BP packs with a spare panel socket or a splitter. It’s a neat way to add a second control, for example on the other side of a DIY tub.
Does the spaTouch Mini have WiFi?
No. For app control you need a Balboa WiFi module, or a spaTouch 4, which has WiFi built in.
How big is the spaTouch Mini?
The panel is about 87 × 62mm (3⅜ × 2⅜in) with a 2.8in screen. Check the cut-out size in the install guide before you cut anything.
Will the spaTouch Mini fit the hole left by my old topside?
Not on its own. It’s much smaller than most panels, so you’ll need an adapter or trim plate, or a filler panel, to cover the old cut-out.
Thinking about a spaTouch Mini for your tub? Ask me anything in the comments below.
Cheers,
Andi
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Hi, Andi here. I own Buildahottub.com and also write all of the articles and info pages on the site. Some years back now, I built my own hot tub but struggled to find the information I needed. So, once my tub was complete, I started this website to help others in their own pursuit of hot tub and plunge pools DIY building information.
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