Kohler and Boca both build custom walk-in tubs that make bathing safer for older adults and others with limited mobility. One of the most important features of a walk-in tub is its low step-in threshold: Kohler’s is 3 inches, while Boca’s is 2 inches. The standard features for each brand are also different: Kohler walk-in tubs come with water and air jets and a heated backrest, which are optional items on a Boca tub. Each company backs its tubs with a lifetime warranty and is rated highly by customers.
- Kohler is best for bathers who want a tub that comes with plenty of safety features as well as water and air jets. Kohler is also a good choice if you want a broader update to your bathroom, giving you options for custom bath walls and a shower package.
- Boca is best for bathers who need an extra-low step-in threshold. It’s also a good choice for those who want a standard soaker tub or those who need a bariatric, wheelchair-accessible or two-seater tub.
Kohler vs. Boca cost and installation
Both Kohler and Boca are premium brands that require you to get a price quote rather than listing prices online. Kohler sells its tubs through a network of authorized dealers who handle the entire sale and installation process for you.
Boca also has a network of trained installers, but it is more flexible, offering support and detailed guides if you would rather hire your own local contractor to do the work.
 |  | |
| Basic tub starting price | $2,000 | $12,000 |
| Financing offered | Partners with GreenSky to offer financing at participating dealers | In-house and third-party financing available |
| Discounts offered | Yes | Yes |
| In-home quotes required | Yes | Varies by location |
| Labor warranty | Lifetime | One year when factory-trained installer is used |
| Parts warranty | Lifetime | Lifetime |
| Tub warranty | Lifetime | Lifetime |
| $2,000 | Partners with GreenSky to offer financing at participating dealers | Yes | Yes | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime |
 | $12,000 | In-house and third-party financing available | Yes | Varies by location | One year when factory-trained installer is used | Lifetime | Lifetime |
Kohler vs. Boca types of walk-in tubs
Kohler's offers walk-in tub models that can be customized with different colors, faucet finishes and stylish wall surrounds.
Boca offers a wider variety of tub shapes and sizes. It has tubs designed for smaller spaces, for larger individuals and a two-seater tub for couples.
| | |
| Soaker tub | Yes | Yes |
| Wheelchair-accessible tub | Yes | No |
| Bariatric tub | True | True |
| Tub/shower combo | Yes | Yes |
| Two-seat tubs | No | Yes |
| Yes | Yes | True | Yes | No |
| Yes | No | True | Yes | Yes |
Kohler vs. Boca features
Kohler is known for its luxurious comfort features, like a heated backrest to keep you warm and a combination of powerful whirlpool jets and gentle air bubble jets. Its tub also has a very low 3-inch step-in.
Boca's main focus is on providing the absolute best in safety. Its signature feature is an industry-leading step-in height of 2 inches or less, making it one of the easiest and safest tubs to enter and exit.
| | |
| Step-in height | 3 inches | 2 inches |
| Fast drain | Yes | Yes |
| Quick filling | Yes | Yes |
| Grab bars included | Yes | Yes |
| Number of hydro jets | 10 | 10 |
| Number of air jets | 17 | 18 |
| Chromotherapy offered | Yes | Yes |
| Heated seats option | No | Yes |
| Heated backrest option | Yes | Yes |
| Remote control option | No | Yes |
| Showerhead options | Yes | Yes |
| 3 inches | Yes | Yes | Yes | 10 | 17 | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| 2 inches | Yes | Yes | Yes | 10 | 18 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Kohler vs. Boca installation services
With Kohler, the installation is always handled by a local authorized dealer, ensuring the work is done by a professional trained on its specific product.
Boca offers more flexibility. You can arrange for a full-service installation with one of its trained professionals, or you can hire your own handyman, and Boca will provide them with helpful videos and instructions.
| | |
| Bathroom door resizing | Yes | Yes |
| Old tub removal | Yes | Yes |
| Wall repair and repaint | Yes | No |
| Electrical wiring | Yes | Yes |
| Flooring touch-up | Yes | Yes |
| Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
All information accurate as of publishing date.
Kohler vs. Boca reviews
| | |
| Overall star rating | 4.7 | 4.8 |
| Verified customer reviews | Read reviews | Read reviews |
| 4.7 | Read reviews |
| 4.8 | Read reviews |
What Kohler customers say
Kohler walk-in tubs have good reviews on ConsumerAffairs.com. Customers say the process from start to finish is easy and the staff is knowledgeable, professional and friendly. Customers are also very happy with the comfort level of the walk-in tub. Some customers say that Kohler is very expensive but worth it.
“We loved the rep that we worked with. He was very personable, he answered all our questions and he gave us options. He had on a mask when he was here, and he made sure that he stayed his distance. The installers were clean ... My dad enjoys the walk-in shower. It's a lot easier than getting in the tub.”
What Boca customers say
Boca has a very positive reputation on ConsumerAffairs.com. Reviewers frequently mention the company's great customer service. When it comes to the tub, customers are pleased with its easy entry, safety features and relaxing jets. Most tub owners are satisfied, though some weren't pleased with the contours of the seat or the texture of the tub's floor.
“I am very pleased with the Boca Walk-in bath tub ... The representative. Alan, was very upfront with us and explained what extra items were essential to include and the cost. He did not pressure us to purchase the tub. ... I highly recommend Alan and the company.”
Bottom line: Kohler or Boca?
Kohler and Boca are both well-reviewed walk-in tub manufacturers that offer high-quality products. Each company offers custom design options and access to professional installation services and backs its tubs with a lifetime warranty. There are differences, though. For example, Boca walk-in tubs have a step-in threshold that’s 1 inch lower, while Kohler walk-in tubs have hydrotherapy and air jets as a standard feature. We recommend contacting each company for a consultation to go over your needs and budget and making a decision based on which feels right for your home.
