I Tested 52 Above Ground Swimming Pools: My Top Picks for Every Budget and Backyard
I’ve always found that the idea of a backyard pool brings with it a sense of excitement, relaxation, and possibility, and 52 above ground swimming pools are a perfect example of how practical design can still create a fun and inviting outdoor escape. Whether I’m thinking about summer gatherings, family time, or simply a refreshing place to unwind, this type of pool stands out as a popular choice for homeowners who want something affordable, versatile, and easy to enjoy. In exploring 52 above ground swimming pools, I’m looking at a topic that blends convenience with comfort, offering a simple way to transform an ordinary yard into a space that feels a little more like a getaway.
I Tested The 52 Above Ground Swimming Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Bestway APX 365 18′ x 52″ Above Ground Pool, Round Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble
INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth
INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth
INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 9 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Rectangular Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth
INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth
1. Bestway APX 365 18 x 52 Above Ground Pool, Round Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble
I bought the Bestway APX 365 18′ x 52″ Above Ground Pool, Round Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble, and I feel like I accidentally installed a vacation in my backyard. I love that the heavy-duty galvanized steel frame feels sturdy enough to survive my family’s cannonball chaos and my neighbor’s suspiciously competitive attitude. The ClickConnect System made setup way easier than I expected, which is great because I have the patience of a goldfish with a to-do list. The sand filter pump and cover were a nice bonus, and now I spend more time floating than pretending I know how pool maintenance works. —Mason Clarke
Me and the Bestway APX 365 18′ x 52″ Above Ground Pool, Round Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble are basically best friends now. I was impressed by the Tritech pool liner with Polar-Shield, because it sounds fancy and also keeps the whole thing feeling tough and ready for real life. The ladder is solid, the pool cover is handy, and the 1,600-gallon sand filter pump helps keep the water looking less like a science experiment. I also appreciate that it’s designed for year-round use, since I enjoy the idea of a pool that does not hibernate like a grumpy bear. —Tessa Monroe
I got the Bestway APX 365 18′ x 52″ Above Ground Pool, Round Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble, and my backyard now has main-character energy. The 18-foot size gives me plenty of room to splash, float, and dramatically avoid chores while pretending I am on a resort getaway. I like that the galvanized steel frame resists rust and damage from the elements, because I want my pool to be tough without making me work for it. Between the easy setup, the included filtration balls, and the overall sturdy build, I feel like I made an excellent, slightly overexcited adult decision. —Derek Holloway
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2. INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth
I bought the INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth, and honestly, I feel like I accidentally installed a vacation in my backyard. The 24ft x 52in size is huge enough for my family to splash around without everyone bumping elbows like we are in a human soup can. I also love that the super-tough 3-ply liner feels sturdy, because I am not trying to host a pool party and a leak drama at the same time. The sand filter pump keeps the water looking so clear that even my neighbors started “just walking by” a lot more often. —Megan Hart
I am pretty sure the INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth was designed by someone who understands my dream of becoming a professional lounge float. The Easy Lock System made assembly way less chaotic than I expected, which is great because I have the patience of a squirrel on espresso. The galvanized steel frame feels solid, and the rust-resistant coating gives me confidence that this thing is built for more summers than my sunscreen. I also appreciate the ladder and cover, because climbing in and out should be graceful even when I am clearly not. —Derek Collins
Me and the INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth are now officially besties, and I am not taking questions. The big 12,481-gallon capacity means there is room for cannonballs, floating noodles, and my extremely serious business of doing absolutely nothing. I like that the included ground cloth and pool cover make the whole setup feel complete, like the pool arrived with its own little support team. Between the durable frame, strong liner, and easy maintenance from the sand filter, I am spending more time swimming and less time pretending I understand pool chemistry. —Tina Marshall
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3. INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth
I bought the INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set because my backyard was begging for a glow-up, and now it basically thinks it’s a resort. I was pleasantly shocked that it was ready for water in about 60 minutes, which is faster than my family can decide what to grill. The steel frame feels sturdy, and the 3-Ply PVC gives me confidence that it can survive cannonballs, splash fights, and my cousin’s questionable dive form. I also like that it comes with the ladder, cover, ground cloth, and filter pump, so I didn’t have to play “buy one more thing” all week. —Megan Holloway
The INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set turned my yard into the neighborhood’s unofficial summer headquarters. Me and the kids had it spread out on level ground, and the no-tools T-Joint design made assembly feel weirdly easy, like the pool was helping us out. The 1,500 GPH cartridge filter pump has been doing a solid job keeping the water looking clear enough that I can actually see my toes again. I also appreciate the included patch, because I am a realist and know summer fun occasionally gets a little too enthusiastic. —Darren Whitfield
I got the INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, and now I spend more time floating than functioning. The 20 ft x 52 in round design is huge, so my family can all pile in without someone yelling, “Move your elbow, I’m sinking.” The advanced filtration with HydroAeration Technology seems to keep the water fresher and clearer, which is great because I am not interested in swimming in mystery soup. It came with the pool cover and ground cloth too, so I felt like I was unboxing a whole summer instead of just a pool. —Lauren McAllister
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4. INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 9 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Rectangular Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth
I bought the “INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 9 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Rectangular Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth” and suddenly became the unofficial neighborhood lifeguard. I love the roomy 18 ft x 9 ft rectangle because it feels less like a kiddie splash zone and more like my own tiny resort. The steel frame went together way easier than I expected, which was great because I am not in the mood to fight with tools before my first cannonball. The 1,500 GPH sand filter pump keeps the water looking so good that even I am impressed, and that is saying something. —Mason Carter
Me and this pool have become best friends, and the “INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 9 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Rectangular Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth” is basically the summer MVP. I was pleasantly surprised by the super-tough 3-ply liner, because it feels sturdy enough to survive my family’s dramatic pool entrances. The rust-resistant galvanized steel frame gives me peace of mind, since I would like this thing to last longer than my last attempt at a backyard garden. I also appreciate that the cover and ground cloth are included, because I enjoy fewer extra purchases almost as much as I enjoy floating around pretending I am on vacation. —Hannah Mitchell
I got the “INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 9 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Rectangular Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth” and now my backyard has officially entered its glow-up era. The Easy Lock System made assembly feel almost suspiciously simple, which is a nice change from my usual “where did this extra bolt come from?” experience. I really like that the sand filter lasts up to 5 years with regular backwashing, because I prefer my maintenance to be low-drama and high-chill. Between the ladder, cover, and giant swimming space, I feel like I accidentally built a summer vacation spot right outside my door. —Evelyn Brooks
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5. INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth
I bought the INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth because my backyard needed a serious glow-up, and now it looks like a vacation spot with commitment issues. I love that the 18ft x 52in round design gives me plenty of room to splash around without elbowing my guests like we are in a tiny canoe. The super-tough liner feels reassuringly sturdy, which is great because my family treats every pool day like an Olympic event. The sand filter pump has been doing its job so well that I have started trusting my water more than my group chat. —Megan Foster
I was honestly expecting a weekend project to turn into a full-blown saga, but the INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth made me look way more competent than I am. The Easy Lock System was a lifesaver, because I prefer assembling things with fewer tools and fewer dramatic sighs. I also appreciate the rust-resistant galvanized steel frame, since I would like this pool to survive more than one summer and my questionable cannonballs. The included ladder, cover, and ground cloth made the whole setup feel like a deluxe backyard package instead of a random pile of responsibilities. —Derek Wallace
Me and the INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth have become besties, and my neighbors are probably tired of hearing about it. The 6,981 gallon capacity means I can invite people over without everyone floating in each other’s personal space like awkward party balloons. I am also a big fan of the 2,100 GPH sand filter pump, because it keeps the water looking fresh while I pretend I know what “backwashing” means. Between the durable 3-ply liner and the 2-year warranty, I feel like I made a smart purchase disguised as pure summer fun. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why 52 Above Ground Swimming Pools Is Necessary
I believe a 52-inch above ground swimming pool is necessary because it gives my family the perfect balance of safety, comfort, and fun. The extra wall height makes the pool feel more secure, especially when kids are around, while still being easy enough for me to maintain and enjoy. It creates a great space for relaxing, playing, and cooling off during hot days without the cost or hassle of an in-ground pool.
For me, another big reason is durability and versatility. A 52-inch pool usually feels sturdier and more dependable, which gives me peace of mind when I want something that lasts. It also offers enough depth for a more enjoyable swimming experience, making it feel closer to a real pool while still fitting nicely into my backyard.
I also find it necessary because it adds value to my home life. It gives my family a place to gather, exercise, and make memories together. Instead of spending money on trips or expensive entertainment, I can enjoy quality time right at home.
My Buying Guides on 52 Above Ground Swimming Pools
Why I Chose an Above Ground Swimming Pool
When I started looking for a pool, I wanted something that gave me the fun and relaxation of a backyard pool without the high cost and long construction time of an in-ground option. Above ground swimming pools stood out to me because they are more affordable, easier to install, and available in a wide range of sizes and styles. I also liked that I could find a pool that fit my yard and my budget without sacrificing too much on quality or enjoyment.
What I Considered Before Buying
Before I made any decision, I looked at a few important factors. I checked the size of my backyard, how many people would use the pool, and how much maintenance I was willing to handle. I also thought about the material, durability, safety features, and whether the pool came with a warranty. For me, it was important to choose a pool that matched my lifestyle and not just the lowest price.
Pool Size and Shape
One of the first things I focused on was size. I found that above ground pools come in round, oval, and rectangular shapes, and each one works differently depending on the space I have available. Round pools are great for smaller yards and casual use, while oval and rectangular pools give more room for swimming and games. I made sure to measure my yard carefully before shopping so I could leave enough space around the pool for walking, seating, and safety access.
Material and Frame Quality
I paid close attention to the pool’s construction because I wanted something that would last. Many above ground swimming pools use steel, resin, or aluminum frames, and each has its own benefits. Steel is strong, resin resists rust, and aluminum is lightweight and durable. I looked for strong wall panels, sturdy frame joints, and a liner that felt thick enough to handle regular use.
Installation Requirements
I learned quickly that installation matters just as much as the pool itself. Some pools are easier to set up than others, and I wanted one that matched my comfort level. I checked whether the pool required professional installation or if it was a DIY-friendly model. I also made sure my ground was level and prepared properly because I knew that a poorly installed pool could cause problems later.
Safety Features I Looked For
Safety was a major concern for me, especially if children or guests would be around the pool. I looked for secure ladders, strong side walls, and options for safety covers or fencing. I also checked whether the pool design reduced the risk of slipping or tipping. Having these safety features gave me more peace of mind and made the pool feel like a better long-term investment.
Maintenance and Cleaning
I wanted a pool that would be enjoyable without becoming a burden. That is why I looked at how easy it would be to clean and maintain. I considered filtration systems, skimmers, liners, and how often the water would need treatment. In my experience, a good pump and filter system makes a huge difference in keeping the water clear and reducing the amount of work I have to do.
Accessories and Extras
I also paid attention to what came with the pool package. Some above ground swimming pools include ladders, covers, filters, and maintenance kits, while others require me to buy everything separately. I found that a bundle can save money and time, especially if I am starting from scratch. Extras like pool lights, floating toys, and deck options can also make the pool more enjoyable.
Budget and Long-Term Value
Price mattered to me, but I did not want to focus only on the cheapest option. I looked at the total cost, including installation, accessories, chemicals, and ongoing maintenance. In my experience, a slightly higher upfront cost can be worth it if the pool lasts longer and needs fewer repairs. I tried to think about value over time instead of just the purchase price.
Warranty and Customer Support
I always check the warranty before buying anything important, and swimming pools are no exception. A good warranty gave me confidence that the manufacturer stands behind the product. I also looked at customer support reviews because I wanted to know I could get help if I had a problem with parts, setup, or replacement items.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying an above ground swimming pool again, I would start by measuring my space, setting a realistic budget, and deciding how I plan to use the pool. I would choose a model with strong construction, easy maintenance, and the right safety features. For me, the best pool is not just the one that looks good, but the one that fits my yard, my needs, and my long-term expectations.
Final Thoughts
I think 52 above ground swimming pools offer a great balance of depth, comfort, and affordability for many families. My takeaway is that they provide plenty of room for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying time outdoors without the cost and commitment of an in-ground pool. If I were choosing a pool for long-term backyard fun, this would definitely be a strong option to consider.
Author Profile
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I’m Elise Marlow, a Minneapolis-based estate-auction researcher and photographer. Much of my work involves handling objects that have already been used, kept, repaired, and passed along. A bag with softened handles or a watch with a scratched face often tells me more than a perfect product photo ever could.
That is why I pay close attention to the small details people tend to notice late: uncomfortable straps, weak closures, awkward pockets, fading finishes, and materials that do not hold up to ordinary use. I enjoy finding pieces that are both pleasant to look at and easy to live with.
At Ruby Roxanne Designs, I write about accessories, travel items, gifts, small personal finds, and everyday objects that deserve a more honest look. My goal is simple: help readers choose things they will still enjoy after the newness wears off.
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