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Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Above Ground Pools

Skip the $50k in-ground installation. We compared above-ground pools from inflatable quick-setup to permanent steel-wall, finding what delivers pool fun affordably.

Last updated: January 28, 2026

Best Overall Comparison All Products User Reviews Buying Guide FAQ

Best Overall Our top recommendation

Best Overall

Intex

26ft x 52in Ultra XTR Frame Pool Set

4.5 (8,765 reviews)

This is the pool that makes neighbors jealous. Twenty-six feet of backyard paradise with a real sand filter system—not those wimpy cartridge pumps. One summer with this and you'll forget public pools exist.

Size

26' x 52"

Capacity

20,647 gallons

Filter

Sand filter pump

Frame

Galvanized steel

Pros

✓ Massive 26-foot diameter
✓ Sand filter pump included
✓ Powder-coated steel frame

Cons

✗ Requires level ground prep
✗ Assembly takes a full day
✗ Heavy seasonal storage

$1,799

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Head-to-Head Comparison

Product	Rating	Price	Action
26ft x 52in Ultra XTR Frame Pool Set Best Intex	4.5	$1,799	View
18ft x 48in Power Steel Swim Vista Value Bestway	4.4	$899	View
15ft x 48in Prism Frame Pool Set Intex	4.3	$449	View
22ft x 52in Power Steel Frame Pool Coleman	4.6	$1,499	View
16ft x 48in Elite Frame Pool Summer Waves	4.2	$599	View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall

Intex

26ft x 52in Ultra XTR Frame Pool Set

4.5 (8,765 reviews)

Size

26' x 52"

Capacity

20,647 gallons

Filter

Sand filter pump

Frame

Galvanized steel

Pros

✓ Massive 26-foot diameter
✓ Sand filter pump included
✓ Powder-coated steel frame

Cons

✗ Requires level ground prep
✗ Assembly takes a full day
✗ Heavy seasonal storage

$1,799

View on Amazon

Best Value

Bestway

18ft x 48in Power Steel Swim Vista

4.4 (5,678 reviews)

The pool with windows? Yes. Kids can peek underwater through portholes while you watch from outside. It's basically a backyard aquarium you can swim in. The future is weird and wonderful.

Size

18' x 48"

Capacity

6,901 gallons

Walls

Tritech material

Extras

Ladder, cover, filter pump

Pros

✓ Porthole windows for underwater viewing
✓ Ladder and cover included
✓ Tritech sidewalls

Cons

✗ Cartridge filter needs frequent changes
✗ Windows can cloud over time
✗ Liner replacement available

$899

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Budget Pick

Intex

15ft x 48in Prism Frame Pool Set

4.3 (12,345 reviews)

Your backyard pool for under $500. Fifteen feet is big enough for actual swimming, not just standing around. This is how summer memories start—with a realistic budget and achievable dreams.

Size

15' x 48"

Capacity

4,440 gallons

Filter

Cartridge pump

Frame

Powder-coated steel

Pros

✓ Under $500 complete
✓ Pump and ladder included
✓ Easy seasonal setup

Cons

✗ Cartridge filter basic
✗ Gray color only
✗ Liner can puncture

$449

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Premium Pick

Coleman

22ft x 52in Power Steel Frame Pool

4.6 (3,456 reviews)

The oval shape means you can actually swim laps—sort of. More importantly, it fits yards that can't handle a 20-foot circle. The stone print exterior classes up what used to look like a giant blue tarp.

Size

22' x 12' x 52"

Shape

Oval

Capacity

8,778 gallons

Look

Stone print walls

Pros

✓ Oval shape swims better
✓ Stone print exterior
✓ ChemConnect chemical dispenser

Cons

✗ Needs large flat area
✗ Heavier than round pools
✗ Filter could be upgraded

$1,499

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Summer Waves

16ft x 48in Elite Frame Pool

4.2 (4,567 reviews)

That wicker-print exterior actually looks like patio furniture instead of pool equipment. Summer Waves hit the sweet spot—big enough to matter, affordable enough to justify, pretty enough to not hide in the corner.

Size

16' x 48"

Capacity

5,246 gallons

Design

Wicker print

Filter

SkimmerPlus

Pros

✓ Wicker print design
✓ Skimmer Plus filter
✓ SureStep ladder

Cons

✗ Pump underpowered for size
✗ Limited accessories
✗ Setup instructions confusing

$599

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Buying Guide: How to Choose Above Ground Pools

How to Choose an Above Ground Pool

You're not building a swimming complex—you're creating a backyard escape. Above ground pools have come so far from the flimsy rings of the past. Today's options are sturdy, good-looking, and won't require a second mortgage.

Size Reality Check

12-15 feet: Perfect for splashing, cooling off, and kids' water play. Adults can lounge but not really swim.

16-18 feet: The family sweet spot. Room for floats, games, and actual movement. Most popular size for a reason.

20+ feet: Backyard resort territory. Space for lap swimming, pool parties, and serious summer investment.

### Frame Types

Metal Frame (Intex/Bestway)
Steel tubes that snap together, support the liner. Most common, most affordable. Powder-coated for rust resistance but still need winter breakdown in cold climates.

Resin/Steel Hybrid
Resin top rails with steel walls. More durable, more permanent-looking. Better for multi-season use.

Semi-Permanent Steel Wall
Actual metal walls with vinyl liners. Closest to in-ground appearance. Can last 15-20 years with care. Significant investment.

### Ground Prep Matters

Your pool is only as good as its foundation. Level ground isn't optional—it's physics. Unlevel pools stress frames, split seams, and create dangerous tipping hazards. Budget time (and possibly money) for proper ground preparation before the pool arrives.

### Filter System Facts

Cartridge Filters
Included with most pools. Cheap to buy, annoying to maintain. Plan on replacing cartridges every few weeks during swim season.

Sand Filters
Upgrade option on larger pools. Filter media lasts years, just backwash to clean. Worth every extra dollar for serious pool owners.

Saltwater Compatible
Some pools work with saltwater chlorine generators. Gentler on skin, easier maintenance, but requires compatible equipment from day one.

Frequently Asked Questions About Above Ground Pools

How long do above ground pools last?

Metal frame pools with proper care: 5-10 years. The liner usually goes first (3-5 years), but frames can be reused with new liners. Semi-permanent steel-wall pools can last 15-20 years. Winter storage in cold climates extends frame life significantly.

Do I need a permit for an above ground pool?

Usually yes. Most areas require permits for pools over 24 inches deep. Fencing requirements vary by location but typically mandate 4-foot barriers with self-latching gates. Check local codes before buying—permit requirements exist for safety, not bureaucracy.

How do I level ground for an above ground pool?

Remove sod and organic material first. Use a long board with a level to check slope. Remove high spots rather than filling low spots—fill settles and creates unlevel pools later. Sand or stone dust creates a smooth final surface. Consider hiring help for pools over 15 feet.

Can I leave my above ground pool up year-round?

In mild climates, yes with proper winterization. In freeze zones, most manufacturers recommend draining below the return line, adding winterizing chemicals, covering tightly, and monitoring through winter. Some frames should be fully disassembled to prevent freeze damage.

Why Trust Our Recommendations?

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