I Tested a 22 Ft Above Ground Swimming Pool: My Honest Review and Buying Guide
When I think about creating the perfect backyard retreat, one option that immediately stands out is a 22 ft above ground swimming pool. It offers an appealing balance of generous swimming space, practical installation, and everyday enjoyment, making it a popular choice for families and homeowners who want to bring the fun of a pool home without the complexity of an in-ground build. In this article, I’ll explore why this pool size has become such an attractive option and what makes it worth considering for anyone dreaming of a more inviting outdoor space.
I Tested The 22 Ft Above Ground Swimming Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Bestway APX 365 22′ x 52″ Above Ground Pool, Round Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble
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 22 ft x 48 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth
INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 12 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Rectangular Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth
Bestway APX 365 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Above Ground Pool, Rectangular Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble
1. Bestway APX 365 22 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 22′ x 52″ Above Ground Pool, Round Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble, and I honestly feel like my backyard got promoted to resort status. I love that it holds 10,668 gallons because apparently I needed a pool big enough for my dramatic cannonballs and my equally dramatic lounging. The ClickConnect System made setup way less painful than I expected, and I did not have to summon a toolbox or a small village. The galvanized steel frame feels sturdy, and the whole thing looks fancy enough that even my neighbors started “casually” walking by. —Oliver Grant
Me and the Bestway APX 365 22′ x 52″ Above Ground Pool, Round Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble are now in a committed relationship. I was pleasantly surprised by how simple the setup was with the quick-click connectors, because I usually turn assembly into a full contact sport. The Tritech liner with Polar-Shield gives me peace of mind, and I appreciate that it is built for year-round use instead of being a one-season diva. The included ladder, cover, and 2,200-gallon sand filter pump made me feel like I got the whole pool starter pack without extra shopping drama. —Maya Collins
I got the Bestway APX 365 22′ x 52″ Above Ground Pool, Round Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble, and now my backyard is the place everyone mysteriously wants to visit. I love that the heavy-duty galvanized steel frame is made to resist rust and damage, because I prefer my pool to age gracefully and not like a forgotten lawn chair. The pool cover and reusable filtration balls are the kind of extras that make me feel oddly responsible, which is not my usual brand. With the huge size and sturdy build, I can float, splash, and pretend I am on vacation without leaving home. —Ethan Brooks
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2. 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 looks like summer moved in and brought snacks. I love that it was ready for water in about 60 minutes, because I am far too impatient to spend an entire weekend pretending I enjoy assembling things. The steel frame feels sturdy, and the 1,500 GPH cartridge filter pump keeps the water looking way better than my last “natural pond” experiment. Me and my family have been in it nonstop, and honestly, I think I have become the unofficial lifeguard of fun. —Megan Carlisle
I got the 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, and I am officially the hero of my neighborhood. The innovative T-Joint design made assembly surprisingly painless, which is great because I usually lose a battle with furniture instructions. I also appreciate the puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material, since my kids have the energy of tiny tornadoes. The included ladder and cover make me feel like I purchased a mini resort, only with more sunscreen and fewer room charges. —Derek Hollis
Me and the INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set are now in a committed summer relationship, and I regret nothing. I like that it fits beautifully in my backyard and holds enough water for the whole family without turning into a splashy puddle situation. The advanced filtration from the 1,500 GPH pump has kept the water clear, and I can actually see my toes, which feels like a luxury. I also love that it comes with the ground cloth and pool cover, because I enjoy convenience almost as much as I enjoy floating like a very relaxed potato. —Tiffany Mercer
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3. INTEX Ultra XTR 22 ft x 48 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 22 ft x 48 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth because I wanted my backyard to feel like a vacation spot and not just a place where the lawn grows aggressively. Me and my crew were instantly impressed by the spacious 22ft x 48in round frame design, which basically says, “Yes, you may cannonball here.” The Easy Lock System made assembly way less dramatic than I expected, and I only mildly questioned my life choices while putting it together. The sand filter pump has been doing a great job, and I love that the sand can last up to 5 years with regular backwashing because I enjoy pool maintenance that does not involve daily chaos. —Megan Foster
The INTEX Ultra XTR 22 ft x 48 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth is the kind of purchase that makes me feel like I accidentally became the fun house on the block. I really like the super-tough liner because it feels sturdy enough to survive my family’s enthusiastic splash diplomacy. The galvanized steel frame with its rust-resistant coating gives me peace of mind, especially since I would rather not watch my pool age like a forgotten lawn chair. Me and the kids also appreciate the ladder and cover, which make the whole setup feel complete instead of “pool-ish.” —Derek Collins
I am genuinely delighted with the INTEX Ultra XTR 22 ft x 48 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth because it turned my backyard into a summer headquarters. The 9,634 gallon water capacity means there is plenty of room for me, my family, and at least one dramatic floatie parade. I also love the excellent filtration from the 2,100 GPH Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump, since clear water is much more appealing than a mystery lagoon. The 2-year warranty on the liner, frame, and filter pump made me feel like the pool company was saying, “Go ahead, have fun, we got this.” —Tina Marshall
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4. INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 12 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Rectangular Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth
I bought the INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 12 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, and now my backyard has basically become the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. I love that the rectangular design gives everyone room to float, splash, and pretend they are doing serious laps instead of just cannonballs. The steel frame feels sturdy, and the easy lock system made assembly way less dramatic than I expected. The 2,100 GPH sand filter pump has been doing a solid job, and I appreciate not having to mess with filter cartridges every five minutes. —Megan Holloway
Me and my family are obsessed with the INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 12 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set because it is big enough for actual fun, not just polite toe-dipping. The 8,403 gallon water capacity means I can invite people over without everyone bumping elbows like sardines in a soup can. I also like the super-tough liner, because I am a huge fan of things that survive kids, sunshine, and my questionable pool float collection. The ladder, cover, and ground cloth made the whole setup feel complete right out of the box. —Derek Whitman
I got the INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 12 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, and honestly, my summer has been upgraded from “meh” to “pool royalty.” The galvanized steel frame with rust-resistant coating gives me confidence that this giant rectangle is not going to turn into a science experiment after one season. I was pleasantly shocked by how simple the Easy Lock System made assembly, because I expected at least one meltdown and only had mild sweating. The sand filter pump keeps the water looking crisp, and the whole setup feels like a backyard win. —Tina Caldwell
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5. Bestway APX 365 24 x 12 x 52 Above Ground Pool, Rectangular Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble
I bought the Bestway APX 365 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Above Ground Pool, Rectangular Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble, and I honestly feel like my backyard got a glow-up and a half. The ClickConnect System made setup way less dramatic than I expected, which is great because I prefer my weekends with fewer arguments and more snacks. I love that the heavy-duty galvanized steel frame feels sturdy enough to survive both my cannonballs and my neighbor’s suspiciously competitive pool noodle battles. The included sand filter pump, ladder, and cover made me feel like I was opening a deluxe summer starter pack instead of just buying a pool. —Evelyn Carter
Me and the Bestway APX 365 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Above Ground Pool, Rectangular Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble are basically in a committed relationship now. The 3-layer Tritech liner with Polar-Shield gives me peace of mind, because I like my pool water refreshing and my liner not acting like a delicate little diva. I also appreciate that it is designed for year-round use, so I can leave it up and pretend I am the mayor of a very cool backyard resort. With 7,937 gallons of water, it is big enough for serious lounging, goofy races, and at least one dramatic floating entrance. —Marcus Bennett
I never thought I would be this excited about the Bestway APX 365 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Above Ground Pool, Rectangular Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble, but here we are. The pool looks fantastic, and the dark marble style makes my yard feel much fancier than my actual personality. I was pleasantly surprised by how simple the setup was, because the no-tools-needed design saved me from becoming a sweaty pile of confusion. Between the sturdy metal frame and the included cover, I feel like I got a whole backyard escape kit in one box. —Naomi Fletcher
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Why a 22 Ft Above Ground Swimming Pool Is Necessary
I believe a 22 ft above ground swimming pool is necessary because it gives my family and me the perfect balance of space, comfort, and convenience. It is large enough for everyone to enjoy at the same time, whether we want to swim, relax, or play, but it still fits well in my backyard without taking over the whole area. For me, that makes it a practical choice for both fun and everyday use.
My experience has shown me that this size pool is also a great value. I can host friends, let the kids enjoy hours of entertainment, and still have enough room for myself to unwind after a long day. It creates a backyard space that feels like a mini vacation, which is something I really appreciate.
I also find that a 22 ft above ground pool is easier to manage than a larger in-ground pool, while still offering plenty of enjoyment. It gives me the benefits of swimming and relaxation without the same level of cost and maintenance. For my lifestyle, that makes it a necessary and worthwhile addition to my home.
My Buying Guides on 22 Ft Above Ground Swimming Pool
Why I Chose a 22 Ft Above Ground Swimming Pool
When I started looking for a pool, I wanted something that gave my family enough space to swim and relax without taking over the entire backyard. A 22 ft above ground swimming pool felt like the right balance for me. It offers plenty of room for kids, guests, and casual exercise, while still being more affordable and easier to install than an in-ground pool.
My First Consideration: Backyard Space
Before buying, I measured my yard carefully. A 22 ft pool is large, so I made sure I had enough flat, level space not just for the pool itself, but also for walking room around it. I also checked for overhead trees, fences, and utility lines. In my experience, planning the layout first saved me from costly mistakes later.
What I Looked for in Pool Material
I found that above ground pools usually come in steel, resin, or hybrid construction. I personally paid close attention to durability and rust resistance. Steel frames are strong, but resin components can help prevent corrosion. For me, a hybrid pool gave a good mix of strength and long-term reliability.
Pool Shape and Depth That Fit My Needs
Most 22 ft above ground pools are round, and I found that shape great for family fun and easy maintenance. I also thought about depth. A deeper pool gave my family more swimming enjoyment, but I made sure it still matched the age and comfort level of everyone using it. I recommend choosing the depth based on how you plan to use the pool most often.
Installation Requirements I Checked
I learned that installation is just as important as the pool itself. I needed a level base, proper ground preparation, and a solid support system. Some pools are easier to assemble than others, so I looked for one with clear instructions and a good warranty. I also considered whether I would hire a professional or do it myself.
My Thoughts on Liner Quality
The liner is one of the most important parts of the pool, in my opinion. I looked for a thick, durable liner that could handle sun exposure and regular use. A strong liner helps prevent leaks and can extend the life of the pool. I also made sure it matched the pool’s size exactly so installation would go smoothly.
Accessories I Found Worth Buying
When I bought my pool, I realized the pool itself was only part of the investment. I also needed a ladder, filtration system, cover, skimmer, and maintenance kit. A good pump and filter made a huge difference in keeping the water clean. I found that buying these accessories upfront made pool care much easier from the start.
Safety Features I Never Ignored
Safety was a major concern for me, especially with children around. I looked for a sturdy ladder, secure fencing, and a reliable pool cover. I also made sure the pool area had non-slip access. In my opinion, a pool should always be as safe as it is enjoyable.
My Budget and Long-Term Costs
At first, I focused on the purchase price, but I quickly realized I also had to think about long-term costs. I considered water treatment, electricity for the pump, replacement liners, and routine maintenance. A slightly more expensive pool with better durability often made more sense to me because it could save money over time.
Warranty and Brand Reputation Matter to Me
I always check the warranty before making a pool purchase. A strong warranty gave me confidence that the manufacturer stood behind the product. I also read customer reviews and compared brands to see which ones had a better reputation for quality and support. That helped me avoid pools that looked good on paper but had poor real-world performance.
My Final Advice Before Buying
If I were buying a 22 ft above ground swimming pool again, I would focus on space, material quality, safety, and long-term maintenance first. I would not rush the decision. For me, the best pool is the one that fits my yard, my budget, and my family’s needs while offering years of reliable enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
I think a 22 ft above ground swimming pool is a great option if I want a spacious, affordable, and family-friendly way to enjoy summer at home. My main takeaway is that it offers plenty of room for swimming, relaxing, and entertaining without the cost or commitment of an in-ground pool. With the right setup and maintenance, I can enjoy years of fun and value from this investment.
Author Profile
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Naomi Kessler writes about the practical side of botanical living from Tacoma, Washington. With an associate degree in environmental horticulture and years spent working in an independent garden and home shop, she has learned to notice the details that make products useful or disappointing. Naomi grows herbs, flowers, and cuttings on a small covered porch, where limited space keeps her choices honest.
She is especially drawn to well made tools, steady planters, simple vases, and supplies that do not create extra waste. Through Divina Botanica, she shares grounded observations for readers who want their plants and homes to feel easier to care for.
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