For maximum efficiency and long-term savings, the Nuos Plus S2 is the clear winner for larger households. If you have limited space or a smaller budget, the Lydos Hybrid series offers a reliable middle ground that still beats standard electric heaters.
The smallest in the lineup, perfect for when square footage is at a premium. It still packs the punch of a hybrid system.
What We Liked 👍
Most compact design available
Quickest heating time in series
Lower entry price point
What Could Be Better 👎
Smallest capacity in the series
Less suited for multiple showers
Performance meets practical reality
When you are looking at heat pump water heaters, you are essentially buying a machine that pulls heat out of thin air to save you money. The Nuos Plus S2 is the brute force of the group, designed for those who have the wall space and want the absolute best efficiency rating available. It is not a subtle appliance, but it is a hardworking one that will keep a family of four in hot showers without running up the meter.
On the other hand, the Lydos Hybrid range, whether you go for the 80L, 100L, or 130L, is built for the rest of us who do not live in a mansion. They use a smart I-Memory feature that learns your daily schedule. If you leave for work at 8 AM and come back at 6 PM, the heater stops wasting energy in the middle of the day. It is clever, simple, and frankly, it is the kind of common-sense engineering I can get behind.
What really matters for your wallet
The biggest differentiator here is capacity versus physical footprint. If you pick the 150L Nuos, you are committing to a larger installation project, but you are also getting the best energy performance. If you choose the Lydos 80L or 100L, you are prioritizing convenience and space. The maintenance is largely the same across the board thanks to the electronic Protech anodes, which means you can stop worrying about checking your tank every single year like the old days.
Choose based on your household size
For a family of three or more, invest in the Ariston Nuos Plus S2. It is an investment that pays for itself through sheer efficiency. If you live alone or with a partner and space is tight, the Ariston Lydos Hybrid 100L is the sweet spot that offers enough hot water without needing a massive wall.
Don't overspend on capacity you don't need, but don't undersize your heater just to save a few euros, or you will be shivering through your morning shower.