Best Above Ground Pool Reviews: Top-Rated Swimming Pools In 2022

The swimming pool is an excellent investment for a family. Although in-ground pools may be the better option compared to above ground pools, most people don’t have a spacious backyard or the money to afford such luxury.

That is why we present to you a list of the best above ground swimming pools to buy in 2022. With extensive research and deep analysis on customer reviews, we hope to provide you with the comfort and satisfaction you and your family rightfully deserve.

Top-Rated Large Above Ground Pools For Family​

Intex 18ft X 48in Inflatable Swimming Pool

Intex 18ft X 48in

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If you’re looking for a huge swimming pool to pamper the whole family, Intex 18ft x 48in Easy Set Pool may just be what you’re looking for.

Features

​This inflatable swimming pool is wide enough to fit the whole family. It has a circular design with dimensions of 18 feet x 48 inches. The pool has a capacity of 5,455 gallons and is durable with its Super-Tough laminated PVC sidewalls. The package includes: Instructional DVD, Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump, Ladder, Ground Cloth, and a Debris Cover.

​Advantages

The pool is considered a great value for its price at around $280. It has an easy installation and has a tough pool line. The pool itself is sturdy and can fit 7 adults with enough space for comfort. It is acclaimed to be a good above ground pool.​

Disadvantages​

While the pool is considered a great product, the filter and pump that come with it are not that great.Read Customer Reviews on Amazon

Intex 32ft X 16ft X 52in Ultra Frame Pool Set

Intex 32ft X 16ft

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One of the largest pools among the list, Intex 32ft x 16ft x 52in Ultra Frame Pool Set can contain a maximum of 14,364 gallons of water at 90% of its volume capacity. If you have a large family, this is the best above ground pool that fits your needs.

Features

It is a rectangular steel frame pool that gives it resistance to rust and an attractive design. The package includes Debris cover, maintenance kit, a volleyball set, saltwater system and a Krystal clear filter pump. Similar to Intex 18ft x 48in, it features Super-Tough laminated PVC sidewalls to add to its durability.

​Advantages

With high approval rating from its satisfied customers, this swimming pool is considered an excellent pool for its price. It can fit a large family and is sturdy and durable. Not to mention, it is 52 inches deep and is suitable for not only children, but it also is considered to be a good above ground pool for adults.

Disadvantages​

Setting up a large pool such as this one would require more time than the average. It is advisable to have a friend or two over when planning on setting it up.Read Customer Reviews on Amazon

24-Foot x 52-Inch Complete Swimming Pool by Wilbar

MEADOWS

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24xFoot x 52-Inch Round Meadows is one of the sturdiest above ground pools out there. If you’re in the market for a durable and large pool all the while having an attractive circular design, make sure you mark this product on your list.

Features

The pool is perfectly designed with a Corrosion-Free Foundation System and Exact-Fit components. It is designed with high-grade stainless steel bolts, nuts and fasteners. The pool can contain an approximate of 14,000 gallons of water. The package includes the pool, skimmer and the pool liner.

​Advantages

The most notable advantage of this pool is that it has an impressive 100% satisfaction from its customer reviews. Moreover, it has features that make the pool very comfortable and easy to install.

Disadvantages​

Although it has 100% approval from its customers, the numbers are insufficient and do not provide detailed information.Read Customer Reviews on Amazon

24-Foot x 52-Inch Complete Swimming Pool by Wilbar

Splash Pools

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This pool has an attractive circular design with dimensions of 24 feet by 52 inches. It is a rather large swimming pool that can fit the whole family of friends. If you’re looking for a high quality above ground pool to use during summer, this might just be it.

Features

The pool features a decent 1 HP pump and motor. It has a 7-inch galvanized steel ledge that is painted and hot-dipped. The package also includes a liner, pool ladder, filtering system, instruction manual, skimmer and, of course, the pool. Also, the pool has a water capacity of 14662 gallons.

​Advantages

Kit includes everything an above ground pool needs, except for sand filters and chemicals needed for the water. It is quite large and is very durable.

Disadvantages​

Like most large above ground pools, the set-up or installation is not easy and may require a few adults.Read Customer Reviews on Amazon

Rectangular And Oval Metal Frame Pools

Intex 12ft X 30in Metal Frame Pool Set with Filter Pump

Intex 12ft X 30in

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If you’re looking for an easy-to-install small pool, Intex 12ft x 30in is one to consider. It is a large pool that can contain 1,718 gallons of water at 90%. The pool also received mostly positive feedbacks from its customers, verifying its quality and durability.

Features

It has an oval pool design with dimensions of 12 feet x 30 inches. It comes with a Super-Tough laminated PVC sidewalls and a filter pump for cleaner water. It also comes with a drain plug that can be attached to a hose for an easier and more convenient draining of water.

​Advantages

Priced at around $105, it has the best price for the value on the list. Installation and disassembly of the pool is also very quick and easy. Aside from that, customers also praised it to be durable, so long as it is maintained properly.

Disadvantages​

Although it is a cheap above ground pool, there are complaints of leaks coming from the pool after installation.Read Customer Reviews on Amazon

Steel Pro Deluxe Splash Frame Pool by Bestway

Steel Pro Deluxe

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This pool is made by Bestway, a well-known company claimed to provide fun and relaxing activities. It has an oval design and is supported by sturdy metal frames. If you’re in the market for a portable above ground pool, this pool might be it with only 37.5 pounds of weight.

Features

The pool features a flow control drain valve for a more convenient draining of water. It also comes with a polyester 3-ply sidewalls and heavy-duty PVC. It is a decently large pool that is capable of holding 872 gallons of water at 90%. The pool measures an approximate 118 x 79 x 26 inches.

​Advantages

Like most metal frame swimming pools, installation and disassembly is quick and easy. It is one of the top-rated pools that are recommended for children. Moreover, the pool is priced cheaper than the average above ground pools at only $125. Finally, it has a high approval rating of 84% from its customers.

Disadvantages​

The durability of the pool may be in question, especially if not maintained properly. Read Customer Reviews on Amazon

Exercise Swimming Pool by iPool

iPool

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iPool is an impressive innovation from the company Fitmax Inc. It is one of the best brands out on the market. The pool is one of the best rectangular above ground swimming pools and temporary pools at 10 feet x 6.5 feet in dimensions. If you’re looking for a pool on which to practice on, have fun or relieve stress, this is the choice of the pool that will suit your needs.

Features

This metal sided pool is designed to prevent rust from happening with its powder coat and galvanized metal tubing. While it is indeed lightweight and may seem a little fragile, it is a durable pool with its fabric line and PVC Coating. Surprisingly, considering its size, the pool can hold a maximum of 1,500 gallons of water.

​Advantages

Although the pool is a little expensive in comparison to its metal frame pool competitors at $1,200, it is still considered by the majority of its customers to be of great value. It is a durable and easy to install metal sided above ground pool. It is suitable for home with either large or small backyard.

Disadvantages​

Other parts that come with the pool may not be as durable as one might expect.Read Customer Reviews on Amazon

Intex 18ft X 10ft X 42in Oval Frame Pool Set

Intex Oval Frame Pool Set

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Intex 18ft x 10ft x 42in is a big pool that can hold 2,885 gallons of water. It is considered to be one of the easy set up pools that you can build within 30 minutes, provided you use the instructional DVD that comes with it.

Features

This pool is designed to be of strength, supported by durable and sturdy steel frames that are powder-coated to prevent it from rusting. The package also comes with a Krystal Clear filter pump for cleaner water the family can enjoy. To add to its durability, the sidewalls are of super-tough laminated PVC.

​Advantages

The pool is great for beating the heat. With its large dimensions, a small family can fit conveniently inside this deep pool. It also comes with a drain plug that can be connected to a garden hose for easy draining away from the house area.

Disadvantages​

The pool’s filter is not durable enough.Read Customer Reviews on Amazon

Cheap Above Ground Pools Under $100

10′ x 30 Intex Easy Set Pool

Intex

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Not all people can afford a budget of more than $100, and so Intex offers a 10ft x 30in Easy Set Pool that costs only around $60.

Features

This small pool is very easy to set up and one doesn’t even require tools to do so. It comes with an installation and maintenance DVD. It also can fill up to 1,018 gallons of water at 80% capacity. It has a high approval rating from its consumer reports. If you want a temporary above ground pool, this is the best choice among the many small pools on the market.

​Advantages

The pool is said to be of great value for its price and is surprisingly durable at that. With only a weight of 8.5 pounds, the pool can be set up and disassembled in an instant if planning on changing its location.

Disadvantages​

The package does not include a filter pump.Read Customer Reviews on Amazon

Intex 86″ x 59″ x 23″ Rectangular Baby Splash Pool

Intex 86

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Swimming pools are the best escape the summer heat, and Intex 86 x 59 x 23 inches just might be it. It is a rectangular frame pool that can hold 439 gallons of water. It is also conveniently portable with a weight of only 32.58 pounds.

Features

This above ground pool is easy to assemble and can already be filled with water in just 30 minutes. The pool is designed with Super-Tough laminated sidewalls and is supported by sturdy steel frames to keep it in place.

​Advantages

With a price of only around $99, this pool is very cheap with all things considered. It is durable and easy to install and can easily be relocated anywhere around the backyard.

Disadvantages​

Although the product has a high approval rating on Amazon, there are only a few customer reviews about this above ground pool.Read Customer Reviews on Amazon

Intex Easy Set 12-Foot by 30-Inch Round Pool Set

Intex Easy Set

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Intex Easy Set 12 foot by 30 inches is a medium sized pool suited for a small family. If you’re looking to buy an above ground pool, there’s nothing better than this comfortable, relaxing and cheap above ground pool.

Features

This pool is recommended for those who are willing to try an above ground pool. At a cheap price of only around $80, an easy to follow instructional DVD and a weight of 36.2 pounds, there is nothing more you could ask for, except for a bigger pool of course.

​Advantages

As mentioned above, it is a cheap pool that can provide you the same comfort and relaxation most above ground pool can provide. It is portable with its lightweight, and is durable enough that can last a long time, provided it is maintained and checked regularly.

Disadvantages​

Maintenance of the pool is rather difficult.Read Customer Reviews on Amazon

Jilong Pools 8-Foot Prompt Pool Set

Jilong Pools

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Relax and enjoy with the family with this 8-foot Prompt Pool Set. It is recommended for children and also adults that need to unwind. It is one of the best pools that are just under $100.

Features

The pool comes with high-quality heavy gauge 3-ply laminated PVC sidewalls that contribute to its durability. The package also includes a 300-gallon filter pump, drain valve for customer’s convenience. The pool can hold 548 gallons of water and is considered a small pool with its dimensions of 8 feet x 25 inches.

​Advantages

This above ground pool is highly durable and considered very cheap for its quality. It has a high approval rating of 82% from its satisfied customers in Amazon. The installation is super easy and can be stored away in an instant. It is also conveniently portable with its weight of only 16.53 pounds, making it the best choice for a pool you can carry around.

Disadvantages​

There are some product defects marketed that produce leaks.Read Customer Reviews on Amazon

Small Swimming Pools for Kids

Intex Rainbow Ring Inflatable Play Center

Intex Rainbow

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There is no better feeling than watching your own kids have fun and enjoy themselves with a small deep inflatable pool. With Intex Rainbow Ring Inflatable Play Center, you would only have to pay a small amount of $38. It is definitely one of the top-rated inflatable pools out there.

Features

This small pool is suitable for children aged 2 and above with 117 x 76 x 53 inches inflated dimensions. It has a wading pool, water slide, a water sprayer and a ring toss game. The pool can hold 77 gallons of water. To add fun to the kids, a toss ball and ball roller game are also added with 6 plastic play balls.

​Advantages

The pool has a high approval rating from the parents that purchased the product. It is cheap and is durable, provided you take good care of it. The pool is also portable with deflated dimensions of 16 x 16 x 5.5 inches with a weight of only 14.6 pounds.

Disadvantages​

Some complaints discussed the pool being deflated constantly.Read Customer Reviews on Amazon

Intex Swim Center Paradise Inflatable Pool

Intex Swim

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Intex Swim Center Paradise Inflatable Pool is a small swimming pool for kids aged 3 and above. It is considered to be one of the cheapest at only around $25. It is one of the best inflatable above ground swimming pools for the kids to have fun and beat the heat, this pool is it.

Features

This above ground pool includes 2 air chambers and a double valve intake for the parent’s convenience. The package also includes a shelf box and a repair patch in cases of minor leaks or deflation. The pool has a water capacity of 151 gallons and is 12 inches deep, giving it a 6” allowance, whichever is preferred.

​Advantages

The pool is extremely portable with a weight of only 9.6 pounds. Customer report also revealed it to be a great product with its low price, supported by a significant number of satisfied parents.

Disadvantages​

The drain plug it comes with, may not be working as it’s supposed to.Read Customer Reviews on Amazon

Bestway Rectangular Splash Frame Pool

Bestway Rectangular Splash Frame Poo

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If you’re looking for a sturdy and convenient pool that can be used over and over, consider Bestway Rectangular Splash Frame. It is a small swimming pool designed for kids to have fun and cool-off.

Features

The pool, considering its size of 94 x 59 x 23 inches, can be easily installed and disassembled. It also has sidewall support with a heavy-duty PVC and polyester 3-ply installed. The pool can hold as much 476 gallons at 90% full capacity, with a flow control drain valve to easily drain its content.

​Advantages

This small pool weighs only 25.59 pounds that is convenient for portability. It has a very high approval rating of 90% from satisfied parents who bought this product. Aside from that, the pool is also said to be super durable.

Disadvantages​

There are a few complaints of product defects being marketed.Read Customer Reviews on Amazon

Intex Sun Shade Inflatable Pool

Intex Sun

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This swimming pool is the cheapest among the list. It is made by Intex, a brand known for manufacturing above ground pools. It is highly recommended for children aged 2 and above

Features

The water capacity of the pool is at 74-gallon. The package includes a repair patch and a drain plug. The inflated size of the pool is at 62 x 62 x 45 inches, but the recommended depth size is at 9.5 inches.

​Advantages

This is one of the best inflatable pools for kids that only cost around $22. It is conveniently portable with only a weight of 8 pounds, in which you can easily set it up or store it. The pool also has a sun shade, suitable for children with highly sensitive skin.

Disadvantages​

The pool needs to be placed somewhere safe and should be maintained to prevent it from acquiring holes.Read Customer Reviews on Amazon

What to Look for when Buying an Above Ground Pool

If you’re in the market for the best-rated above ground pool for family to enjoy, there are a few things to consider.

  • Plan the Location. Planning on where to put your above ground pool is one of the most important factors you should be considering. It may depend on the size of your backyard and also if you prefer shaded or sun-exposed areas. It would also help if the pool would be placed in an accessible location for a guardian to look out for children that are having fun with it.
  • Consider the Shape and Size. Some people choose convenience oversize, and that is why you should consult the family or friends what shape you should be buying. On the other hand, some people choose size over anything else. It is advisable to check what sizes are available and if it could fit in your backyard.
  • Difficulty of Setting it up. Some are easy to install while some are quite troublesome. If you have more time to spare, then feel free to choose larger and more complicated above ground pools. But if not, then easy installation is highly advised.
  • Price. Not all people have the luxury to spend a large amount of money on a swimming pool. Before making a purchase, consider what tools you might need to set the pool up.

Different Types of Above Ground Swimming Pools (Pros & Cons)

Hard-Sided Pool

Pros​

  • Hard sided above ground pool is durable
  • The pool is cost-effective
  • Replacing pool liners are easy
  • Other features can be installed

Cons

  • The pool needs to be maintained especially in winter
  • Requires a good location to install

Soft-Sided Pool

Pros​

  • Soft sided above ground pools are affordable
  • The pool can be easily installed
  • To purchase a soft-sided pool would not require any other requirements
  • Can easily be purchased at nearby retailers

Cons

  • Not as durable compared to hard-sided pools
  • Has difficulty in maintenance
  • Difficult to find a good location

Portable Pool

Pros​

  • Portable above ground pool can be set up and disassembled in an instant
  • The pool is one of the cheapest in the pool industry
  • Does not require any additional tools to set up

Cons

  • Not very durable
  • Parts may not be of a good quality

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