Above ground pools turn an ordinary backyard into a mini getaway with way less hassle than an in-ground setup. Models like the Bestway Steel Pro MAX, INTEX Ultra XTR, and Intex Easy Set create an easy spot to float, splash, and cool off with friends and family.
Strong steel frames, 52-inch depths, and simple cartridge or sand filters keep things sturdy and low stress. With round and rectangular options in different sizes, finding a pool that actually fits your yard and lifestyle feels surprisingly simple.
| Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15′ Round Above-Ground Pool |
| Simple Frame-Only Pick | Shape: Round | Dimensions: 15 ft diameter x 48 in height | Water Capacity: 4,231 gallons (90% full) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| INTEX Ultra XTR 18ft Above Ground Pool Set |
| Best Premium Round Set | Shape: Round | Dimensions: 18 ft diameter x 52 in height | Water Capacity: Not specified | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Intex Easy Set 15ft Inflatable Pool Set |
| Fast-Setup Inflatable Pick | Shape: Round | Dimensions: 15 ft diameter x 48 in height | Water Capacity: 3,736 gallons | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Intex 24ft x12ft Ultra XTR Above Ground Pool Set |
| Best Large Family Pool | Shape: Rectangular | Dimensions: 24 ft x 12 ft x 52 in | Water Capacity: Not specified | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Bestway APX 365 22′ x 52″ Above-Ground Pool |
| Best Year-Round Pool | Shape: Round | Dimensions: 22 ft diameter x 52 in height | Water Capacity: 10,668 gallons (90% full) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14′ x 48″ Pool Set |
| Best Mid-Size Starter Set | Shape: Round | Dimensions: 14 ft diameter x 48 in height | Water Capacity: 4,024 gallons (90% full) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15′ Above Ground Pool |
| Best All-In-One Round | Shape: Round | Dimensions: 15 ft diameter x 42 in height | Water Capacity: 3,955 gallons (90% full) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| INTEX Metal Frame 12ft Above Ground Pool Set |
| Compact Backyard Choice | Shape: Round | Dimensions: 12 ft diameter x 30 in height | Water Capacity: 1,718 gallons | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Bestway APX 365 Rectangular Above Ground Pool Set |
| Best Rectangular Design | Shape: Rectangular | Dimensions: 18 ft x 9 ft x 52 in | Water Capacity: 4,352 gallons (90% full) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15′ Round Above-Ground Pool
Should you want a real backyard pool that feels sturdy and roomy, but you don’t want to deal with digging or hiring a contractor, the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15′ Round Above-Ground Pool is a sweet spot. You get a true 15-foot circle of water that feels generous, not cramped, and it holds about 4,231 gallons, so friends and family can actually spread out.
Because the frame uses heavy duty, corrosion resistant steel, you don’t feel nervous whenever kids splash or lean on the sides. The 3 layer Tritech liner adds strength, so small bumps are less stressful. ClickConnect joints snap together without tools, so setup and takedown feel manageable, not overwhelming. Plus, you can add a pump, ladder, and cover later to match your budget and comfort.
- Shape:Round
- Dimensions:15 ft diameter x 48 in height
- Water Capacity:4,231 gallons (90% full)
- Frame Material:Heavy-duty steel frame (corrosion resistant)
- Liner Material:Tritech 3-layer liner (puncture resistant)
- Included Pump Type:Not included (compatible with 1,000-gallon filter pump)
- Additional Feature:ClickConnect tool-free assembly
- Additional Feature:Tritech 3-layer liner
- Additional Feature:Ideal for off-season storage
INTEX Ultra XTR 18ft Above Ground Pool Set
Should you want a roomy family pool that still feels simple to own and manage, the INTEX Ultra XTR 18ft Above Ground Pool Set hits a very sweet spot. At 18 feet wide and 52 inches deep, it gives kids space to play and adults room to float and relax. You also get a 2-year warranty, which helps you feel safer about the investment.
You snap the galvanized steel frame together without extra tools, so setup feels less scary than it looks. The strong T-joints and UV protection help the frame handle sun, rain, and daily splashing, as long as you place it on level ground. The 3-ply puncture-resistant PVC liner feels thick and sturdy, and the included patch kit lets you fix small damage instead of panicking.
The Krystal Clear sand filter pump keeps water moving and clean, and the 6-function valve lets you switch between filtering, backwashing, rinsing, recirculating, draining, or closing the system. Once you get used to the controls, you’ll feel more in charge of your water quality. The 28002E cleaning kit adds another layer of comfort, since you don’t have to guess how to keep the pool tidy. The 94-inch telescoping aluminum shaft reaches across most of the water, and you can swap between the vacuum head and skimmer head to pick up leaves, sand, or little mystery bits that show up after a windy day.
- Shape:Round
- Dimensions:18 ft diameter x 52 in height
- Water Capacity:Not specified
- Frame Material:High-quality galvanized steel frame
- Liner Material:3-Ply PVC (puncture resistant)
- Included Pump Type:Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump (#26645EG)
- Additional Feature:2-year warranty included
- Additional Feature:Krystal Clear sand filter
- Additional Feature:6-function valve controls
Intex Easy Set 15ft Inflatable Pool Set
Perfect for families who want a real pool experience without a huge project, the Intex Easy Set 15ft Inflatable Pool Set gives you a roomy, 15-foot-wide round pool that you can actually set up in a single afternoon. At 48 inches deep and holding up to 3,736 gallons, it feels like a real backyard retreat where everyone can cool off, play, and relax together.
You just inflate the top ring, lay it on the ground cloth, and start filling with water. The strong 3 ply PVC shell resists punctures, and the included pump with HydroAeration keeps water clear. A ladder, cover, and ground cloth round out the set.
- Shape:Round
- Dimensions:15 ft diameter x 48 in height
- Water Capacity:3,736 gallons
- Frame Material:Inflatable ring; no rigid frame specified
- Liner Material:3-Ply PVC (puncture resistant)
- Included Pump Type:1000 GPH cartridge filter pump
- Additional Feature:15-minute water-ready setup
- Additional Feature:HydroAeration circulation technology
- Additional Feature:Includes cover and ground cloth
Intex 24ft x12ft Ultra XTR Above Ground Pool Set
Families who want a big, sturdy pool that feels almost like an in-ground experience without digging up the yard find a strong match in the Intex 24ft x12ft Ultra XTR Above Ground Pool Set. You get a long, wide swim area that lets kids splash on one side while adults relax on the other. At 52 inches deep, it feels more like a “real” pool, not a kiddie setup.
The galvanized steel frame snaps together without tools, so you’re not wrestling with bolts in the heat. The 3 ply PVC resists punctures, and the sand filter and automatic vacuum keep the water clear with less effort.
- Shape:Rectangular
- Dimensions:24 ft x 12 ft x 52 in
- Water Capacity:Not specified
- Frame Material:High-quality galvanized steel frame
- Liner Material:3-Ply PVC (puncture resistant)
- Included Pump Type:Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump (#26645EG)
- Additional Feature:Deluxe automatic vacuum included
- Additional Feature:700 GPH suction power
- Additional Feature:2-year warranty coverage
Bestway APX 365 22′ x 52″ Above-Ground Pool
Should you want a large, sturdy backyard pool you can trust through hot summers and cold winters, the Bestway APX 365 22′ x 52″ Above-Ground Pool gives you that steady, all-season setup. At 22 feet across and 52 inches deep, it holds up to 10,668 gallons, so your family has space to float, splash, and cool off without feeling crowded.
You don’t just get size, though. The heavy-duty galvanized steel frame fights rust and weather, while the 3-layer Tritech liner with Polar-Shield technology stands strong against punctures and cold. The ClickConnect System makes setup simple, and the included sand filter pump, filtration balls, ladder, and cover round out a worry-light package.
- Shape:Round
- Dimensions:22 ft diameter x 52 in height
- Water Capacity:10,668 gallons (90% full)
- Frame Material:Heavy-duty galvanized steel frame
- Liner Material:3-layer Tritech liner with Polar-Shield
- Included Pump Type:2,200-gallon sand filter pump (with filtration balls)
- Additional Feature:Year-round outdoor rated
- Additional Feature:Polar-Shield cold protection
- Additional Feature:Reusable filtration balls included
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14′ x 48″ Pool Set
In case you want a pool that feels sturdy, looks clean, and still fits a smaller yard, the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14′ x 48″ Pool Set hits a really comfortable sweet spot. At 14 feet wide and 4 feet deep, it gives you room to float, play, and cool off without taking over your whole yard. It holds about 4,024 gallons, so it feels like a real pool, not a kiddie tub.
You also get quiet confidence from the build. The heavy-duty steel frame fights rust and stays solid, while the Tritech 3-layer liner resists punctures and stretching. Setup feels manageable with the ClickConnect system, since the pieces click together without extra tools. Once the season ends, you can take it down and store it for next year.
To keep water clear, the set includes a 1,000-gallon filter pump with a Type III A/C cartridge. The ladder helps everyone get in and out safely, and the cover protects your water from leaves so you spend more time swimming and less time scooping.
- Shape:Round
- Dimensions:14 ft diameter x 48 in height
- Water Capacity:4,024 gallons (90% full)
- Frame Material:Heavy-duty steel frame (corrosion resistant)
- Liner Material:Tritech 3-layer liner (puncture resistant)
- Included Pump Type:1,000-gallon filter pump (cartridge, Type III A/C)
- Additional Feature:Includes ladder and cover
- Additional Feature:Type III A/C cartridge
- Additional Feature:ClickConnect quick assembly
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15′ Above Ground Pool
Looking for a pool that feels big and real, but still fits your yard and your budget? The Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15′ Above Ground Pool gives you that sweet spot of space and simplicity. At 15 feet wide and 42 inches deep, it holds about 3,955 gallons, so your family can stretch out, float, splash, and actually relax.
You’ll like how solid it feels. The heavy-duty steel frame resists rust, and the 3-layer Tritech liner stands up to kids, pets, and everyday use better than basic PVC. The ClickConnect joints make setup tool-free and surprisingly quick.
You also get a 1,000-gallon filter pump, ladder, and cover, so you’re ready for summer memories right away.
- Shape:Round
- Dimensions:15 ft diameter x 42 in height
- Water Capacity:3,955 gallons (90% full)
- Frame Material:Heavy-duty steel frame (corrosion resistant)
- Liner Material:Tritech 3-layer liner (puncture resistant)
- Included Pump Type:1,000-gallon filter pump (cartridge, Type III A/C)
- Additional Feature:1,000-gallon filter pump
- Additional Feature:Easy off-season disassembly
- Additional Feature:Complete backyard pool package
INTEX Metal Frame 12ft Above Ground Pool Set
Families who want a simple, affordable way to cool off in the backyard often find the INTEX Metal Frame 12ft Above Ground Pool Set feels just right. At 12 feet wide and 30 inches deep, it holds about 1,718 gallons, so kids can splash and adults can sit back and relax without it taking over your whole yard.
You’ll feel confident with its puncture resistant 3 ply PVC walls and rust resistant metal frame. The T joints snap together, so you won’t need tools, and you can be filling it in about 30 minutes. The 530 GPH filter with HydroAeration keeps water clearer, fresher, and more inviting.
- Shape:Round
- Dimensions:12 ft diameter x 30 in height
- Water Capacity:1,718 gallons
- Frame Material:Rust-resistant metal frame
- Liner Material:3-Ply PVC (puncture resistant)
- Included Pump Type:530 GPH cartridge filter pump
- Additional Feature:HydroAeration pump technology
- Additional Feature:Dual suction outlet fittings
- Additional Feature:30-minute quick setup
Bestway APX 365 Rectangular Above Ground Pool Set
Big backyard dreamers who want a “real pool” feeling without digging up the yard will connect fast with the Bestway APX 365 Rectangular Above Ground Pool Set. At 18 feet across 9 feet and 52 inches deep, it feels like a real swim lane in your own yard. With 4,352 gallons of water, you’ve got space for kids to splash, teens to float, and adults to stretch out.
You can trust the strong galvanized steel frame to handle sun, rain, and snow. The Tritech liner and Polar-Shield help it stay tough all year. The ClickConnect joints, sand filter pump, ladder, cover, and filtration balls make setup and care feel simple, not stressful.
- Shape:Rectangular
- Dimensions:18 ft x 9 ft x 52 in
- Water Capacity:4,352 gallons (90% full)
- Frame Material:Heavy-duty galvanized steel frame
- Liner Material:Tritech 3-layer material with Polar-Shield
- Included Pump Type:1,600-gallon sand filter pump (with filtration balls)
- Additional Feature:Rectangular space-saving shape
- Additional Feature:Designed for winter use
- Additional Feature:Reusable filtration balls system
Factors to Consider When Choosing Above Ground Pools
Whenever someone starts choosing an above ground pool, it helps to slow down and consider how size, shape, and depth will fit real life, not just the backyard. It also becomes crucial to look closely at frame strength, liner quality, and how the filtration and cleaning system will handle daily use. From there, installation and storage needs, along with local climate and seasonal use, all work together to show which pool will truly feel comfortable, practical, and worth the investment.
Size, Shape, and Depth
Although above ground pools could look similar at initial glance, their size, shape, and depth change everything about how they feel and how they fit into a backyard. Whenever someone picks a size, they quietly decide how the pool will be used. A round pool from 12 to 24 feet across can feel cozy for families, while a larger circle offers more room for floating and splashing.
Rectangular or oval pools, such as 18 across 9 feet, fit better along fences or decks and leave walking space. Depth matters too. Shallower pools around 30 inches are gentle for kids, while deeper options up to 52 inches feel better for older swimmers. With more depth comes more water, more than 10,000 gallons, and more cleaning time.
Frame and Liner Durability
Size, shape, and depth decide how a pool feels to use, but the frame and liner decide how long that pool actually lasts. At the time someone wants a pool that stays strong year after year, the frame is a big deal. Heavy-duty galvanized or steel frames help fight rust, corrosion, and harsh weather, so the pool does not wobble or weaken easily.
Then the liner steps in as the pool’s skin. Reinforced multilayer liners, like 3-layer Tritech or 3-ply PVC, handle bumps, toys, and active kids better than thin single-layer liners. In colder areas, liners with Polar-Shield technology can resist cracking at the time temperatures drop. Advanced snap-together joints support the frame, while included patch kits let owners quickly fix small rips and keep water where it belongs.
Filtration and Cleaning System
How can a pool feel relaxing provided the water does not stay clean and clear? For a backyard pool to feel like a retreat, its filtration and cleaning system must quietly do the heavy lifting. A strong pump that can filter, backwash, rinse, recirculate, drain, and close gives steady control over water quality, so the owner spends less time worrying.
Sand filter pumps suit many above ground pools because they trap fine particles and release them easily during backwashing. Cartridge filter pumps, often moving 500 to 2,200 gallons per hour, keep water circulating so it stays clear and hygienic.
When paired with HydroAeration Technology and an automatic vacuum that connects to the inlet fitting, the pool can stay sparkling with very little daily effort.
Installation and Storage Needs
Clean, calm water feels wonderful, but it only truly feels like a backyard escape every time the pool itself is simple to set up and put away. So it helps whenever the frame uses quick click or snap together parts that slide into place without tools. This kind of system cuts stress and lets a family move from boxes to swimming much faster.
Inflatable and ring top models feel even easier. A level surface, a ground cloth, and an air pump often bring them to life in minutes. Corrosion resistant steel or galvanized frames also matter. They hold strong through repeated assembly, then disassemble smoothly for storage. Detachable pieces and foldable legs stack neatly, protect the liner, and leave more room in the garage.
Climate and Seasonal Use
At the moment someone chooses an above ground pool, climate should guide the decision just as much as size or style. In hot, sunny areas, it helps to look for frames and liners with strong UV inhibitors. These materials resist fading, cracking, and warping, so the pool stays safe and inviting during the sun is intense.
In places with cold winters, sturdy liners with good puncture resistance matter. They handle snow load, ice, and temperature swings with less risk of damage. Some pools include Polar-Shield technology, which protects the structure whenever temperatures drop.
For mild climates, a year-round pool can stay up all the time. In harsher regions, tool-free assembly and quick-disconnect systems make seasonal takedown and storage much easier.
