If you want a quick answer, I think the best above ground pool for most people is the Intex Prism Frame Pool. More details on this pool and many other great options are below.
Families love above ground pools because they’re non-permanent, but they still offer plenty of seasonal fun. Here, I’ll discuss the best above ground pools of every shape and size and cover the pros and cons of my top recommendations. Stick around to the end too where I cover my research and testing criteria, my weighted scoring methodology, and what you should consider in your decision.
My Top Picks for the Best Above Ground Pools of the Year
I selected six above ground swimming pools that stood out from the competition. I don't install these for my clients on a regular basis (since they are mostly DIY), but the same core principles based on my 30+ years of experience still apply.
Intex Prism Frame Pool with Pump
Best Cheap Above Ground Pool
Research Score: 4.2 out of 5
- Durability: 4
- Price: 5
- Installation: 4
- Features: 3
What’s Great:
- Comes with a cartridge filter and pump
- Strong powder-coated frame holds the pool’s shape
- 3 ply liner is puncture resistant and long-lasting
- Easy to set up and requires no specialty equipment
Limitations & What Needs Improvement:
- Not ideal for older kids or adults since it is a smaller model
- The pump might not be strong enough to filter daily gunk out (consider an upgrade if that becomes an issue)
- Round shape
- Can come in many different sizes: 10 feet by 30 inches, 12 feet by 30 inches, 14 feet by 42 inches, 15 feet by 42 inches, 15 feet by 48 inches, and 18 feet by 48 inches.
- Includes a 110-120V cartridge filter pump.
- Smallest model holds 1,185 gallons at 90 percent capacity, and the largest model holds 6,423 gallons at 90 percent capacity.
- Powder-coated steel frame and 3-ply liner.
Research Notes
The Intex Prism Frame Pool is a solid option for pool owners looking for a small above ground pool with an easy set-up. The components of the pool itself are high quality and fairly durable, but the pump and filter are a bit disappointing. It comes at a very fair price, compared to other similar models from competitors.
Durability
The pool is made of two layers of laminated PVC and an extra layer of reinforced polyester. The 3 ply liner system makes the pool very durable and long-lasting. Intex pools have made a name for themselves due to their durability and low price index.
Price
This model gives you a lot of bang for your buck! The pool will only set you back a minimum of 130 dollars and up to 915 dollars for the largest model, and it even comes with a cartridge filter pump. It would be difficult to find a more affordable option of this quality.
Installation
The pool requires no tools for installation, so it is absolutely accessible for DIY. The fast and easy setup makes this pool a great option for those wanting to keep the pool up only in the summer and tear it down and store it in the winter.
Features
Although it is a relatively simple design, the pool does come equipped with its own pump and filter, meaning this pool can be used longer term than other models. It is worth noting that many of the bad reviews for this pool criticize the efficiency of the pool pump. Many pool owners who purchase this pool seem to upgrade the pump as the one included is too small for the pool.
Notes From Other Testers
Reviews for this pool are generally good. Most pool owners are happy with the quality and setup of the pool and it seems that everything Intex advertises about this pool is true.
One reviewer complained that after leaving the pool out for 1 year the poles became badly rusted and were essentially unusable. And many complained about the quality of the pump that is included. But the pool itself gets raving reviews from a huge majority of customers on multiple websites.
Bestway Steel Pro Rectangular Pool
Best for Small Kids
Research Score: 3.8 out of 5
- Durability: 3
- Price: 5
- Installation: 4
- Features: 3
What’s Great:
- Features a flow control drain valve
- Quick and easy set up. With at least one extra person, you should be able to set it up in 10-20 minutes
- Shallow enough for small children to play safely
- Comes in 3 different sizes
Limitations & What Needs Improvement:
- Depth might be too shallow for some water activities
- No pump included, even though the water capacity likely requires a pump
- Poles can rust and deteriorate over time
- Rectangle shape
- Comes in 3 different sizes: 7.25 feet by 5 feet by 17 inches, 9.8 feet by 6.6 feet by 26 inches, 13.1 feet by 6.9 feet by 32 inches
- Pool only, no pump included
- Smallest size holds 317 gallons at 90 percent capacity, and the largest size holds 1,506 gallons at 90 percent capacity
- Corrosion-resistant metal frame
Research Notes
The Bestway steel pro rectangular above ground pool is unmatchable when it comes to pricing. You won’t find a pool of this caliber for less than $100 anywhere else. It's a perfect pool for young kids who are still learning to swim, but I wouldn't recommend it for older kids or adults due to its small size. The set up is quite simple, but the instructions are lacking, and it may not be as easy for inexperienced pool owners. I was happy with the quality of the product overall. The 3 ply reinforced liner is especially nice as it is unlikely you’ll have to deal with tears or leaks in this pool.
Durability
The pool contains corrosion-resistant framing and a 3 ply reinforced liner. According to my testing, it seems you are unlikely to find a tear in the pool liner unless it is pierced with a very sharp object. I found it to be tough material, especially for the price you pay.
The only downside is the steel framing. Although it is advertised as corrosion-resistant, keep in mind this doesn't mean it is invincible. You will likely start to notice rust on the frames within the first year of use. Otherwise, the pool seems to be fairly durable.
Price
You can’t beat the price of this product. It is extremely affordable, coming out to under $100. Although there are some flaws that I’ve pointed out, when it comes to the overall cost, this product is definitely the most affordable option. For homeowners looking for a simple, easy, and cheap option, I would highly recommend the Bestway steel pro rectangular pool.
Installation
Installation is fairly simple for this pool and as long as you have another person to assist you, you should be able to set the pool up in under half an hour. The issue I had with the installation of this pool was the vagueness of the instructions. Those without much experience setting up above ground pools may struggle setting up this pool because the instructions are not very clear.
Features
The pool is fairly simple and really only comes with the bare necessities such as liner, steel frame, and flow control valve for draining. It is a bit of a disappointment that the pool doesn’t come with a pump, or an underlay to put the pool on. But in my opinion, the low price makes up for the lack of features.
The flow control valve makes it easy to drain the pool and fill the pool using a garden hose.
Notes From Other Testers
Although there are some negative reviews online, the majority of people who bought this pool seem to be happy with their purchase. People are thrilled with the low price, and most reviewers were pleasantly surprised by the overall quality of the product.
Quite a few users struggled with setting up the pool due to the lack of clarity in the instructions. And some users were unhappy with the quality of the materials, a few even claiming that within the first month the liner began leaking or the steel frames rusted.
Intex Easy Set Pool
Best Frameless Inflatable Above Ground Pool
Research Score: 3.9 out of 5
- Durability: 3
- Price: 4
- Installation: 5
- Features: 4
What’s Great:
- Easy to set up—just fill the top ring with air
- Drain plug for connecting to a hose for emptying
- Dual suction outlet fittings for filtering the water more effectively
- Comes with a ladder, which helps avoid damaging the pool’s sides and ring
- Comes with a ground cloth that protects the bottom of the pool
Limitations & What Needs Improvement:
- Soft-side pools are more susceptible to tears and can have air leaks
- Not ideal for families with small children since the pool is nearly 4 ft deep
- As with other Intex products, the pump that comes with the pool is not very good quality
- Round shape
- Comes in many different sizes: 6 feet by 20 inches, 8 feet by 24 inches, 8 feet by 30 inches, 10 feet by 24 inches, 10 feet by 30 inches, 12 feet by 30 inches, 13 feet by 33 inches, 15 feet by 33 inches and 15 feet by 48 inches
- Comes with a filter pump, ladder, ground cloth, and cover
- Smallest model holds 232 gallons at 80 percent capacity, and the largest holds 3,736 gallons at 80 percent capacity
- 3-ply material
Research Notes
The Intex Easy Set Pool is definitely one of the best above ground pools on the market. Since the pool has no frame, it takes mere minutes to get set up, meaning less work for you and less time spent building the pool. The pool comes fully equipped with everything you need to get started as well as some great accessories like a step ladder, ground cloth, pool cover, and pump.
In terms of material quality, this pool doesn’t come out on top. Intex does develop quality pools, but in general, inflatable pools are not as durable as steel-framed above ground pools. All in all, it is a good quality, well-priced pool that I would recommend to pool owners looking for a quick pool fix for their backyard.
Durability
This style of pool is not known to be very durable. Since it comes without a frame, the liner is more exposed to the elements. The structural integrity of the pool relies on the inflated ring around the top of the pool, which can easily get damaged.
Intex does seem to address the durability issues with this pool design by including a patch kit and instructions for how to fix a small tear or leak.
Price
Considering everything that is included with the pool and the size, the price is quite fair. This pool is definitely cheap for its size, but there are many more affordable options out there. So for those on a tighter budget, I would recommend a smaller, cheaper pool.
It is worth noting that metal framed pools of the same size would likely set you back $700-800. So this pool is priced within reason.
Installation
Intex advertises this pool as easy to set up for a reason! To set up this above ground pool, you simply need to inflate the outer ring and fill the pool with water. Since the pool doesn’t have many small parts that need to be put together, realistically you could have this pool up and running in no time!
Features
This Intex above ground pool comes fully equipped with everything you will need to enjoy your pool. The pool itself is made of high-quality material, but it also comes with a ladder, ground cloth, a pump, and even a cover to protect your pool when it isn't in use.
The most important feature that Intex includes with the pool is the pump. Unfortunately, the pump included isn’t powerful enough to properly circulate the water. I would recommend purchasing a more efficient pump for this pool.
Notes From Other Testers
Most pool owners enjoy this pool and claim the easy setup really makes it worth the purchase. Over 80% of customers who bought this product rated it 4-5 stars. Most of the customers who rated it 4 stars stated the main reason for not giving the product 5 stars was the quality of the pump.
Some customers claimed that the pool was punctured very easily or even came with holes already in the liner. One customer even had the pool spill over into their yard because the inflatable ring lost too much air.
Intex Ultra XTR Rectangular Pool
Best Rectangular Above Ground Pool
Research Score: 4.25 out of 5
- Durability: 5
- Price: 3
- Installation: 4
- Features: 5
What’s Great:
- Saltwater system cuts out the smell and heavy chlorination of standard chlorine pools
- Has an inground pool feel due to the solid sides of the pool
- Sand filter is surprisingly good and capable of cleaning this size pool
- 2-year warranty if you purchase the pool through Intex
Limitations & What Needs Improvement:
- Intex says you can assemble in 90 minutes, but setup requires multiple people and likely will take longer to finish all the necessary steps
- The pool liner is heavy and requires some maneuvering to smooth out
- Rectangular shape
- Comes in a few different sizes: 18 feet by 9 feet by 52 inches, 24 feet by 12 feet by 52 inches, and 32 feet by 16 feet, 52 inches deep
- Includes a sand filter pump and saltwater system
- The smallest model holds 4,545 gallons at 90 percent capacity, while the largest model holds 14,364 gallons at 90 percent capacity
- Galvanized steel frame
Research Notes
Intex’s Ultra XTR pool combines the convenience of an above ground pool with the features you love in inground pools. Its galvanized steel frame makes the rectangular shape feel like a standard inground pool, and the 52-inch height offers plenty of space to swim.
It is important to view the Intex Ultra XTR as a high scale above ground pool because it is in a completely different price range from other pools on this list. This pool comes with tons of great features and is made of high-quality materials that will last you many years to come.
Durability
Both the liner and the framing of the pool is incredibly durable, which is definitely something you want to hear when you are preparing to shell out this much money on a pool. The liner is made of a tougher and thicker material, making it 50% more tear-resistant in comparison to some of Intex's other products.
The frame of the pool is made of galvanized steel that is resistant to rust and deterioration. And from experience, I can say that the pool itself is made of higher quality materials than the other pools already listed.
Price
One of the biggest downsides of the Intex Ultra XTR Rectangular Pool is the price tag. Pool owners with a tighter budget just won’t be able to afford this pool. The smallest size of this design comes out to around $1,600, and the price goes up exponentially depending on how much bigger you want it.
The pool is definitely more of a premium product. It is designed to last and sit in your yard for the long term. That being said, if you are looking for a decent pool and this one doesn’t fit your budget, there are plenty of other options on the market.
Installation
The installation for the Intex Ultra XTR Rectangular Pool is relatively straightforward, but it does require a few extra hands. It takes some work to set it up efficiently. Although Intex predicts it will only take an hour, realistically it will take 2-3 hours for non-professionals to get it up and running.
Another installation issue is leveling the ground. Due to the size and structure of the pool, you will need to be sure the ground that you put the pool on is extremely level. Some customers claimed they even had to pour concrete to get the ground level enough.
Features
This pool comes with pretty much everything you could possibly need to get your pool set up. It even comes with the option to set up the pool with a saltwater system, which in my opinion, is a huge perk. The saltwater system it comes with is quite basic, but gets the job done and seems to be sufficient for this size pool.
The pool also comes with a ground tarp. The ground tarp is nothing special and it is quite thin, but unless your yard has a very hard or rocky surface, the thin material shouldn’t make much of a difference.
The final features are a step ladder, and a debris cover, which are both handy extras to have.
It is also worth noting that the pool comes with a 2-year warranty when you purchase it new.
Notes From Other Testers
Most pool owners gave this pool raving reviews and loved the quality, size, and durability of the pool overall. Even though the setup can be a bit complex, the end product does make all that work worth it in the end.
Some pool owners complained that the pool required an excessively level surface to work properly, which resulted in them having to shell out the expenses to pour concrete. The pump and filter system that comes with the pool also got mixed reviews. In my opinion, it does a decent job of filtering and circulating the water, but some reviewers found that the pool’s pump didn’t sufficiently clean the water and they had to purchase a larger pump.
Intex Ultra XTR Round Pool
Best Deep Above Ground Pool
Research Score: 4.3 out of 5
- Durability: 5
- Price: 3
- Installation: 5
- Features: 5
What’s Great:
- Easy snap-in assembly requiring no tools
- Can withstand multiple seasons; due to the heavy-duty equipment, there is no breakdown required in winter
- Comes with a sand filter pump, ladder, and cover
Limitations & What Needs Improvement:
- Materials are heavy, so setup requires multiple helpers
- May be too deep for families with young children
- Round shaped pool
- This model has a few different sizes: 16 feet by 48 inches, 18 feet by 52 inches deep, 20 feet by 48 inches, and 24 feet by 52 inches
- Comes with a sand filter pump
- The smallest model holds 5,061 gallons at 90 percent capacity, and the largest model holds 12,481 gallons at 90 percent capacity
- Galvanized steel frame and locking system
Cornelius Aquarian Phoenix Steel Pool
Best Steel Above Ground Pool
Research Score: 4.05 out of 5
- Durability: 5
- Price: 3
- Installation: 4
- Features: 3
What’s Great:
- Steel construction for durability
- Ideal for permanent pool setups
- Plenty of space for the whole family
- Can customize the liner type/setup
Limitations & What Needs Improvement:
- Must purchase the liner separately
- Need to prepare the ground properly before installation
- Requires some muscle to assemble
- Round, 24-foot diameter and 52 inches deep
- No pump, liner, or skimmer included
- Holds 9,200 gallons at 90 percent capacity
- Steel frame
Research Notes
Cornelius Pools’ Aquarian Phoenix Steel Pool is certainly one of the more expensive options on this list. But if you are looking for a pool that can withstand anything, this pool and its steel frame may be the one for you. Due to its durability, it is a great pool option for those looking for a permanent above ground pool set-up.
However, keep in mind that this steel frame does not include the liner or other necessary pool accessories. This pool may end up being very expensive especially if you intend to purchase a high-end liner to match the pool frame.
Durability
All components of this pool are made of steel for durability. If you are looking for a pool that lasts a long time, this is a good choice for you.
This pool includes a pool frame featuring 6-inch steel top rails, 8-inch steel vertical posts, and 2-piece injection-molded high impact resin connectors, making it one of the most durable pool choices on the market.
Price
The issue with this Aquarian Phoenix Round Steel Pool is the price. It is probably one of the more expensive options on the market. But you pay this high price for the durability of the steel-framed pool. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, you would be wise to look elsewhere.
In addition to the price of the pool itself, the price does not include the liner or any other necessary pool accessories such as the liner or the skimmer. This means, in the end, you should expect to even up to twice the price of the pool frame, so this pool is definitely not for the budget-conscious.
Installation
The steel frame comes as an easy-to-assemble package that you can put together with just a screwdriver. However, reviewers seem to complain that the rails can be a bit flimsy, so it is recommended to bring a few family members or friends together to build the pool together. Considering the mere size of the pool, it is certainly not to be considered a solo project.
The advantage of this pool is that it is built to be long-lasting. So once it is built, you won’t have to worry about rebuilding it every pool season or every few years. You can rest assured that it will remain in place for years to come.
Features
Unfortunately, this pool comes with only the bare necessity which is the steel frame. It does not include even the liner or skimmer, let alone the pump or other necessary pool features. You will need to purchase these features separately from the same manufacturer or another.
Notes From Other Testers
The Cornelius Phoenix pool seems to be in the middle when it comes to reviews from other testers. On Amazon, they remain at 3.8 out of 5 stars, which is not bad but not amazing either. For many reviewers, the issue is the difficult installation process. However, the advantage is that once installed, the pool is sturdy. So if you can get over the more complicated installation process and higher price than other alternatives, certainly give it a go as it is a large and sturdy above ground pool option.
Recap: Best Above Ground Swimming Pools
- Intex Prism Frame Pool w/ Pump: Best cheap above ground pool
- Bestway Steel Pro Rectangular Pool: Best for small kids
- Intex Easy Set Pool: Best frameless inflatable above ground pool
- Intex Ultra XTR Rectangular Pool: Best rectangular above ground pool
- Intex Ultra XTR Round Pool: Best deep above ground pool
- Cornelius Aquarian Phoenix Steel Pool: Best steel above ground pool
How They Compare
Durability and Price Comparison
Here is a scatterplot comparing my durability and price scores of each above ground swimming pool. The Intex Prism Frame Pool is hard to beat in terms of durability value for your dollar.
Installation Comparison
- Bestway Steel Pro Rectangular Pool: 5
- Intex Easy Set Pool: 5
- Intex Ultra XTR Round Pool: 5
- Intex Prism Frame Pool: 4
- Intex Ultra XTR Rectangular Pool: 4
- Cornelius Pools Phoenix Steel Pool: 4
Bestway and Intex lead the pack in terms of installation ease.
Features Comparison
- Intex Ultra XTR Round Pool: 5
- Intex Ultra XTR Rectangular Pool: 5
- Intex Easy Set Pool: 4
- Bestway Steel Pro Rectangular Pool: 3
- Intex Prism Frame Pool: 3
- Cornelius Pools Phoenix Steel Pool: 3
Although their pumps are a bit weak, I think Intex has the best features of most above ground pool companies.
Other Above Ground Pools Researched
- Coleman Power Steel Swim Vista Series Pool - The liner on this pool isn't tough enough for me to consider it one of the best steel frame pools.
- Summer Waves Quick Set Inflatable Above Ground Pool - This inflatable pool is a decent option, but I think the Intex Easy Set Pool is better in this category.
- H2OGO! Underwater Oasis Spray Pool - Despite the low price point, this pool is too flimsy.
- Googo Inflatable Swimming Pool - Not durable, and the air pump isn't included.
- Meadows Reprieve Above Ground Pool - The Cornelius Aquarian Phoenix Steel Pool I featured is more durable and around $600 cheaper than this pool.
- lunaoo Foldable Pool - This pool is too small and wobbly, even given the cheap price point. The smallest size of the Intex Easy Set Pool I talked about above is just $20 more expensive, much bigger, and more durable.
My Research Criteria
Here are the top four considerations that went into my research process and weighted scores for each pool.
Durability
There are many different types of above ground pools out there with varying durability levels. Basic inflatable pools are your weakest options, followed by resin, hybrid, steel, and aluminum. Ideally, for an inflatable or resin pool, I would like to see some sort of reinforcing structure, like a steel frame around it. I cover most of the differences between these materials in my steel vs. resin pools comparison. Semi-inground pools are sometimes considered in this above ground pools category, but I think they are too different, and I will cover them in a separate article. Durability accounted for 40% of my score for each pool.
Price
I cover more about the price and budget below. The cost of each above ground pool accounted for 25% of my overall score.
Installation
Ease of installation is 25% of my score for each pool. These bulky structures can be a bit complicated to set up (especially ones with a large frame), so good instructions and simple but sturdy materials are really important to minimize frustration.
Features
Additional features like ladders, maintenance equipment, and pool covers accounted for 10% of my overall score for each pool. You can buy all of this equipment and supplies separately, but it’s nice to have them all at once, especially for brands like Intex with a bit of a unique setup. I cover more on maintenance needs below.
What Else to Consider
What else should you look for when selecting an above ground pool? Consider these criteria.
Research Local Regulations
In many areas (cities, municipalities, and especially homeowner’s associations), above ground pools must meet the same safety requirements as inground pools, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission explains.
From safety fencing mandates to how close your pool can be to your property limits, swimming pool rules can vary widely. In short, your local legislation might affect your ability to buy and install the pool you want.
Know Your Space
Of course, you won’t want to choose a round pool if you only have a narrow strip of lawn to place it on. But other yard features can affect where and how you’ll be able to set up your above ground pool.
For example, you won’t want to place your pool on concrete, as that can damage the bottom. At the same time, you won’t want to set up a chlorinated pool beside your garden area since chlorine can kill plants.
Further, a heavier-duty pool – such as a steel frame option – requires a bit more prep work. You’ll want to prepare your yard to accommodate the pool without killing grass, flooding your lawn, or winding up with a lopsided installation.
Note Capacity and Measurements
Capacity is a key purchase consideration because you want everyone to be able to fit in for summer fun. But measurements alone don’t always tell you what you need to know. For example, a pool that measures ten feet in diameter may look large enough to handle a few adults.
But depending on what water activities you plan to partake in – such as anything other than floating – you might need more space. The same applies if you’re looking for a pool for kids; leaving space for swimming, floating, and splashing is vital for everyone’s enjoyment.
Understand Maintenance Needs
Small pools, such as wading sets for children, often don’t require maintenance. After all, you can dump the pool at the end of playtime. But any pool that takes more than a few gallons of water will require ongoing care to prevent algae growth.
Consider the size of the pool, water filtration and chemical treatment requirements, and any tools that will facilitate the maintenance of your backyard pool. With most setups, the accessories you need will include things like:
- A pump and filters to remove debris and circulate the water
- Chemicals such as chlorine tabs to curb bacteria/algae growth (or salt for saltwater systems, which generate their own chlorine)
- Shock treatment, in case algae takes over before you can fight back
- Test strips to measure the pH, chlorine content, and other chemical makeup of the water
- A net (AKA a skimmer) to scoop out insects, leaves, and other stuff that winds up in the pool
- A cover, depending on how long you plan to keep the pool operational
Accessories like lighting, pool alarms for optimal safety, and access ladders can also enhance your summer experience. And saltwater pools require special equipment, such as a chlorine generator, that are necessary additions to your shopping cart.
Budget and Cost
Though it’s easy to pick a cheap pool and feel good about saving on your summer budget, consider more than just the up-front purchase price. If you choose a low-cost pool, it will probably require replacing next season. Therefore, a “cheap” pool becomes expensive when it only lasts one summer. You also may want to add design elements around the pool, which can add to the cost.
Also, factor in the equipment you’ll need for your pool, plus the amount of water and electricity required to keep it full, filtered, and adequately treated. Read my guide on above ground pool costs for more information on typical prices.
Still need more help? Shoot me a note; I'm always happy to help. You can also read my conversation with Laura Daily at The Washington Post here, where I provide additional commentary on criteria to consider.
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