Best Overall
Intex Ultra XTR Frame Rectangular Pool Set
AMAZON
- It includes a sand filter pump with pre-set cycles, so you won't have to remember to run it. Plus, the assembly doesn't require any tools.
It includes a sand filter pump with pre-set cycles, so you won't have to remember to run it. Plus, the assembly doesn't require any tools.
- It's more expensive than some other similar options.
It's more expensive than some other similar options.
For a durable option that's easy to install, consider the Intex Rectangular Ultra XTR Frame Above Ground Pool. No tools are required for assembly since the frame and filtration system all snap and lock into place. Plus, it should only take two people to put the unit together.
In addition to a ladder, pool cover, and sand filter, the pool also has 52-inch walls, so you'll get four feet of water to splash around in, earning it a top spot on our list of above-ground pools. The liner has a blue tile print with white coping around the top to give it some of the aesthetic appeal of an in-ground pool.
The frame is made of galvanized steel with a powder coating on both the inside and outside of the hollow frame tubes, which will help protect against rust. The three-ply liner is made of polyester mesh and PVC, a combination that Intex claims is 50 percent stronger than its other liners. Plus, the included sand filter has an above-average flow rate of 2,100 gallons per hour.
Although this pool has a higher price tag than others on this list, we believe the quality and included accessories make the price worth it. The frame, liner, and filter pump are also covered by the manufacturer's two-year warranty, so it's a pool that should go the distance.
Product Details: Size: 24 feet x 12 feet x 52 inches | Water Capacity: 8,403 gallons | Material: Polyester and PVC, steel frame | Shape: Rectangular | Depth: 3.75' or 45"
Best Inflatable
Intex Easy Set Pool Set
WALMART
- It's less expensive than other options and is offered in a variety of sizes, so you can find one that fits your yard best.
It's less expensive than other options and is offered in a variety of sizes, so you can find one that fits your yard best.
- Inflatable material is more prone to punctures and may need regular reinflation.
Inflatable material is more prone to punctures and may need regular reinflation.
For a less permanent structure in your backyard, an inflatable pool like the Intex Easy Set is a great option. The above-ground pool inflates in 30 minutes and can hold eight or more people.
To set up the pool, you'll need an air pump as well as a screwdriver to install the filtration system. The drain plug is on the outer side, so you can let water out to adjust the depth as needed. It comes with a cartridge filter pump with a flow rate of 1,500 gallons per hour.
The liner is three-ply vinyl, which shouldn't puncture, but since the top ring is inflatable, you'll still want to keep any pets away from it. You may also need to regularly add additional air to keep the pool fully inflated.
The above-ground pool comes with a pool cover as well as ground cover and ladder, so you can leave it inflated for longer periods of time without it gathering debris. But if you want to take it down, you can attach your garden hose to the drain plug and put the other end of the hose near a storm drain or area of your yard that can handle the amount of water.
Product Details: Size: 18 x 18 x 4 feet | Water Capacity: 5,455 gallons | Material: Vinyl | Shape: Round | Depth: 23 inches
Best Hard-Sided
Wilbar Round Above Ground Pool
AMAZON
- The resin top keeps it cool to the touch, and the overlap liner is ideal for adding a deck around the pool.
The resin top keeps it cool to the touch, and the overlap liner is ideal for adding a deck around the pool.
- The drain is sold separately, and a pool cover is not included.
The drain is sold separately, and a pool cover is not included.
The Wilbar Weekender II Round Above Ground Pool is a hard-sided pool with a galvanized steel wall. You can put this pool semi in-ground (helpful for sloped backyards), and the vinyl liner attaches in an overlap style that's ideal if you want to put a deck around it.
It's worth noting that the above-ground pool doesn't come with a drain or pool cover; however, you can install a drain on the bottom instead of the side. The Weekender II comes with a sand filtration pump, which has a flow rate of 45 gallons per minute, as well as an A-frame ladder and a wall skimmer, so you'll have fewer extra accessories to purchase separately.
Product Details: Size: 18 feet x 4 feet | Water Capacity: Not listed | Material: Vinyl, steel frame | Shape: Round | Depth: Not listed
Best Soft-Sided
Bestway Round Above Ground Pool Set
AMAZON
- The built-in underwater windows are a fun addition, and help you keep a closer eye on swimming children.
The built-in underwater windows are a fun addition, and help you keep a closer eye on swimming children.
- If you choose to upgrade the filters, you may have to opt for name-brand options, as generic ones may be too thick.
If you choose to upgrade the filters, you may have to opt for name-brand options, as generic ones may be too thick.
This round, soft-sided pick from Bestway is an ideal above-ground pool if you're looking for quality but don’t want to splurge on a hard-sided pool. Its sturdy steel frame is made with the brand's Seal and Lock System that allows for the pool legs, top rail, and T-connectors to easily snap into place (without the need for any tools or professional help).
The pool also features a puncture-resistant three-ply liner made of two layers of PVC with a stone-like print that adds some visual appeal to your yard. Unlike its original first-generation model, the Vista Series II offers built-in leak-proof windows that are integrated into the liner—this adds another element of fun for swimmers of all ages.
The pool comes with a filter pump, ladder, and pool cover, but keep in mind you'll have to purchase a sand filter pump separately if you live in an area that's prone to heavy dirt and debris.
Product Details: Size: 18 feet x 49 inches | Water Capacity: 6,092 gallons | Material: Steel, Metal, Polyvinyl Chloride | Shape: Round | Depth: Not Listed
Best Budget
Summer Waves Above Ground Swimming Pool Set
AMAZON
- This pool comes with a repair patch for easy maintenance in case of leaks or tears.
This pool comes with a repair patch for easy maintenance in case of leaks or tears.
- It doesn't include a pool cover.
It doesn't include a pool cover.
The Summer Waves Oak Herringbone Elite delivers on aesthetics and functions. It's available in five colors (including a cute wood-like pattern) to add style to your yard without being an eyesore.
While the pool is more affordable than others on our list, its features are definitely not lacking. It comes with a SkimmerPlus filter pump and a Type-D filter cartridge to keep the water clean (helpful considering the pool doesn't come with a cover). Its three-ply mesh material is also meant to last you multiple seasons, though the above-ground pool does come with a repair patch in case of unforeseen holes or punctures.
Installation doesn't require any tools—always a plus. The horizontal beams slide into the sleeve of the pool, and then you can attach the T-fittings and legs together until they click. The pins also snap into place once inserted. The pool holds up to six people comfortably and offers ample room for small pool floats.
Product Details: Size: 12 feet x 30 inches | Water Capacity: 1,836 gallons | Material: Plastic and PVC, steel frame | Shape: Round | Depth: Not Listed
Best Splurge
Blue Wave Belize Swimming Pool
AMAZON
- This pool comes with an impressive 15-year warranty on both the pool wall and frame.
This pool comes with an impressive 15-year warranty on both the pool wall and frame.
- Installation can take time and may require the help of a professional.
Installation can take time and may require the help of a professional.
The Blue Wave Belize Swimming Pool is a pricey option, but it's still more cost-effective than an in-ground pool. It comes with some bells and whistles that make it worth the splurge. First of all, the body is made out of galvanized aluminum and zinc to protect it from corrosion and rust. The pool also has a six-inch top railing made with resin and UV inhibitors to prevent it from fading.
These features (along with the fact that it's backed by a 15-year warranty) indicate that this above-ground pool is durable; it's more likely to last you multiple seasons. And that may be enough to justify the cost. Aside from a pool cover, the above-ground pool includes everything you need for it to run properly: a standard-gauge liner, a pump and sand filtration system, an A-frame entry ladder, and a wide-mouth skimmer and return system to collect debris.
It holds 6,800 gallons of water and is just over four feet deep—making it roomy enough for swimming laps and family pool parties alike. Bear in mind that setup and installation can be tedious with this above-ground pool, as you'll need to remove all traces of grass, compact the soil it sits on, and assemble both vertical and horizontal supports and braces.
Product Details: Size: 12 x 24 feet | Water Capacity: 6,800 gallons | Material: Resin, plastic, PVC, steel frame | Shape: Oval | Depth: 52 inches
Best Round
Funsicle Oasis Above Ground Pool Set
AMAZON
- This features a two-in-one skimmer and pump—great if you're looking to streamline various cleaning units.
This features a two-in-one skimmer and pump—great if you're looking to streamline various cleaning units.
- This only comes with a 90-day manufacturer warranty.
This only comes with a 90-day manufacturer warranty.
For its size and value, the Funsicle Oasis Above Ground Swimming Pool Set is an excellent choice for an above-ground pool. And while its circular shape won't eat up precious space in your backyard, it's still spacious enough to accommodate up to eight people at one time.
Aside from its easy-to-install click-and-go metal poles, the pool set comes with special features that make it stand out from the rest. For one, a secure ladder that happens to be removable, which means you can store it away from your yard to maximize space when the pool isn't in use. You'll also find a ground cloth to help keep the area underneath the pool clean, thus preventing the pool from collecting unnecessary dirt and debris.
Perhaps the most stand-out feature is the two-in-one skimmer and pump device that can conveniently be mounted on the side of the pool so it's neatly tucked out of the way. This one unit ensures everything from leaves and insects to small particles don't make their way into your pool. One con: The manufacturer only covers a 90-day warranty, which is pretty short considering other above-ground pool options have warranties that last for years.
Product Details: Size: 16 feet x 48 inches | Water Capacity: 5,246 gallons | Material: PVC | Shape: Round | Depth: Not Listed
Best Steel Frame
Aquarian Phoenix Steel Frame Above Ground Pool
AMAZON
- The pool ladder is built with a safety barrier to prevent little ones from swimming underneath.
The pool ladder is built with a safety barrier to prevent little ones from swimming underneath.
- This doesn't come with coping strips for the pool liner.
This doesn't come with coping strips for the pool liner.
This family-sized above-ground pool features a solid steel frame and resin connectors as its base, making it a durable option if you're looking to use it for more than one summer. Though it's not the most aesthetically pleasing, it is thoughtfully-designed with a galvanized steel top and ledges to shield it from rust and corrosion.
Its high-pressure sand filter pump filters 2,400 gallons per hour to keep your pool clean and free of debris. The pool also comes with a 21-foot pool liner, skimmer, pool ladder (with a safety barrier that prevents kids from getting stuck underneath), and a pool net that makes it easy to sift out leaves and insects.
Aquarian offers this above-ground pool in a variety of sizes depending your backyard and how many people you wish to accommodate. This particular size is part of the 6000 series and fits five to six adults comfortably.
Installation does involve several steps including leveling your site, assembling the bottom drain and wall tracks, securing the vertical posts, installing the vinyl liner, top seat, and seat cap, and assembling the filtration system and drain valve. Another thing to keep in mind: The set doesn't include coping strips to hold the liner in place.
Product Details: Size: 21 feet x 52 inches | Water Capacity: 2,400 gallons | Material: Resin, vinyl, steel frame | Shape: Round | Depth: 52 inches
Best for Families
Intex Round Metal Frame Pool
AMAZON
- The shallow depth and strong walls make it a safer choice for families with young kids.
The shallow depth and strong walls make it a safer choice for families with young kids.
- There's no ladder included, so you'll have to purchase one separately if you need it.
There's no ladder included, so you'll have to purchase one separately if you need it.
With 30-inch-high walls, the Intex Metal Frame Pool provides a comfortable depth for kids still learning to swim independently. The average 3-year-old is 37 inches tall per the CDC, so with just under 30 inches of water, your child should be able to touch the bottom without straining to keep their head above water. Kids should always be supervised by an adult while using the pool, however.
The 12-foot diameter is also wide enough for kids to get in several strokes without the distance being too intimidating. Plus, the strong walls are good for pushing off without shaking the pool, helping kids feel secure.
The metal frame is powder-coated to prevent rusting, and the liner is made from three-ply vinyl for added sturdiness. The frame pieces slide together and connect with provided pins for easy assembly, and the legs are tucked into a belt to stay completely vertical, rather than sticking out at an angle, which could be a tripping hazard.
The pool includes a cartridge filtration pump that has a flow rate of 530 gallons per hour, and it's also compatible with the Intex saltwater system. Keep in mind that it doesn't come with a ladder, though, so you'll have to purchase one separately.
Product Details: Size: 12 feet x 30 inches | Water Capacity: 1,718 gallons | Material: Steel and vinyl Shape: Round | Depth: Not listed