Stick with the National non store brands in acrylic or cast iron. No enamel steel fiberglass hybrid, no enamel over steel. Kohler, American Standard (with the exception of Americast) or some Jacuzzi, and even Delta is making tubs these days. If you are on a budget, it’s realky hard to beat the in stock acrylic tubs from a box store. Kohler’s budget line, Sterling, has a presence at both big boxes and is usually a quick ship if it’s not stocked. Sterling’s Vikrell uses polyester resins instead of acrylic ones, with fiberglass reinforcement. It can yellow if exposed to direct sunlight, unlike acrylic. But if you don’t have direct sun on the bath, it can last you until you are ready to renovate that bath.

Any choice needs to be properly installed, according to manufacturer’s instructions. Contractors are not noted for reading directions. Be sure you read them, and print them out for them, taping them to the walls. Including the pictographs.

Now, what waterproofing system is being used for the walls above the tub? Because tile, grout, and backer board, are not waterproof.