11 Best Above Ground Pool Reviews – Consumer Reports [2020]

Best above ground pool for kids to have fun. Some people want to dream of having a beautiful ground pool, but not all have space and budget to do so. If I talk about myself, I want to enjoy my summertime at the beach, but unfortunately, I can’t go to that place daily as it is far away from my place.

Can you think about what I have done? I found the best alternative as an above ground pool and writing best above ground pool reviews & consumers reports in this post.

Yes, the best above ground pool offers many benefits over the traditional pools and who know better than me. You know, it works for multiple uses like refreshing time, kids also splash in it, an adult can use it for some underwater exercise, and my dog also loves it!

While buying one for me, I got too much confused and wasted too much time. I don’t want some other feel the same, and hence I am here with the above ground swimming pool buying guide with some best portable pool. Shall we dive into the portable pool for more information?

Recommended: Best Robotic Pool Cleaners & Best Above Ground Pool Vacuum Cleaner

Best Above Ground Pool

#1. Intex 15ft X 48in Metal Frame Above Ground Pool Set

The first name in the list is Intex 15ft X 48in Metal Frame Above Ground Pool Set. The pool has metal framing, and hence it’s durable. From its size, you can see that it is specious, and the price is also affordable. I think this pool has all set of features that you want in your Intex 15 x 48 pool. This portable pool is made from stainless steel, and hence you do not have to worry about rusting. Easy to assemble, this pool will not take you too much of time in assembly when you want to enjoy in it.

It incorporated a pump and filter for safe use of the pool. Set up it and done! It’s been set up. The water stays clearer and natural with the hydro aeration technology like never before.

The elegant blue color of the pool liner provides a good look and sets a serene atmosphere. But on another hand, it fades quickly and about in a few months of buying. It deteriorates the appearance. However, the performance of the pool is still unaffected after the deterioration of the liner. While setting up, make sure that you are not setting it on the mud, sand, or loose soil.

As a final verdict, this 180 x 180 x 48 inches pool is our choice for those who want to buy an affordable above ground pool for family and friends.

#2. Bestway 56680 Steel Pro 12′ x 30″ Frame Set Above Ground Pool

I know Bestway 56680 Steel Pro 12′ x 30″ Frame Set Above Ground Pool is more basic than what we have cover in this list. It is small in size, but not all have big space and family. Yes, for large families, it will not be useful but isn’t it best as a private pool for a single person.

The stainless steel frame makes it sturdy and stays last long. Even the set up will not take too much time. You can take the help of the DVD that comes with the product to understand the setup.

A reasonable price is another attractive feature for all those buyers who want to save their lots of money. Instead of keeping things simple, keeping things simple, these cheap swimming pools put only necessary things that need to be counted.

The package includes assembly material only. Hence you need to purchase other supported accessories like pumps and ladders. The low price sticker makes it more attractive, but some people don’t like it even with its low price.

In the final verdict, this product is best for those who like to run in their budget.

#3. Lake Effect Meadows 24′ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool

If you like above ground pool ideas and ready to spend a considerable amount of money, then Lake Effect Meadows 24′ Round above Ground Swimming Pool is for you.

These 24′ round pool has elegant design and has a super-strong steel wall that is galvanized for extra protection. The copper-bearing steel wall gives great protection to premature rusting and offers maximum life.

It also provides the visual of seashells and pebbles at the base. The North American cut material makes sure it does not crease and wrinkle excessively. The easy installation process can sustain for all year round.

Even the quality of the assembly is an exceptional one that locks out corrosion, interlock stabilizer rail, and coping strips fit over the liner and lock the pool.

In the final verdict, this 24′ round is best if you have enough money for a quality product. It is the perfect backyard pool that enhances your family time, improves fitness, and ideal for gathering.

#4. Bestway Power Steel 18ft x 51.6in Above Ground Swimming Pool

Bestway Power Steel 18ft x 51.6in Above Ground Swimming Pool is for those who want to spend hours in the sun with fun. This product is a prime choice for the families due to its good quality steel frame design, which can provide maximum strength and durability.

This easy to set up a pool with round shape cover minimal space. Minimum assembly makes it even more favorite among users. Its sturdy construction is made of heavy-duty and polyester 3-ply sidewalls. It has a water capacity of 1500 gallons.

Due to its blue interior, the water looks sparkling and clean. The 360-degree belt provides extra support to the pool’s longevity. Some amazing features include a built-in flow control drain valve that offers easy water draining — the rust resistance frame improves the pool life.

In conclusion, this round inflatable swimming pool offers the best value for money. With proper maintenance, your pool withstands with your family for years.

#5. Intex 8ft X 30in Easy Set – Best Above Ground Pool for the Money

Intex 8ft X 30in Easy Set – Best Above Ground Pool for the Money is next name in above ground swimming pools for sale. Those who want to enjoy their summertime at minimum cost, these 8ft X 30in Intex above ground pools are best. This unit includes a compact, pump, and simple inflatable base that keeps the dimensions of the pool clean and nice.

As this is an inflatable pool, it requires a few minutes of your time, and the air pump saves lots of time. It can occupy a maximum of two adults or two-three young children at the same time.

In conclusion, this pool above ground is not made to stand last forever. It stays for a few seasons only, and hence if you are looking for a long-lasting pool, do not consider it. But according to its low price, I do not think durability is an important feature.

#6. Intex 18ft X 9ft X 52in Rectangular Above Ground Pool Set

 

Buyers who are not looking for cheap above ground pools, Intex 18ft X 9ft X 52in Rectangular Above Ground Pool Set might be one of your choices. If you are ready to invest a decent amount of money, then this pool surely picked by you.

The galvanized steel frame is long-lasting and stands for years. A powder coating of the exterior will cut off the maximum chances of rusting. A high-end Intex sand water filer improves the pool’s efficiency as well as keep all the impurities out of the pool. Another thing is its two-year warranty that can solve all of your sudden problems. Assembly is a little bit challenging and required assistance and professional help for sure to the average buyers.

In the final verdict, these deep above ground pools are one of the expansive options on our list. But the price worth it for the dimension, quality, and components.

#7. Intex 15ft X 48in Easy Set Above Ground Swimming Pool Set

Intex 15ft X 48in Easy Set Above Ground Swimming Pool Set is another affordable inflatable pool for adults. It has filer and pumps both that remove all the debris and dust from the water and keep the pool water clean. The set up is also easy. The easy water draining function empties the pool quickly. Even the PVC walls are tough that keeps the pool in working condition for at least season. One of the reasons for choosing this pool is its dimensions. This 180 x 180 x 48 inches Intex pool sizes are ideal for a group of several people.

In the final verdict, the price of these Intex swimming pools comparatively low, but it can’t choose as the best value for money products. Spend on this pool only if you need it for a few seasons or ready to replace regularly.

#8. Bestway 8.5ft x 5.6ft x 2ft Steel Pro Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool

The Bestway 8.5ft x 5.6ft x 2ft Steel Pro Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool is one of the largest pools. According to its size, this pool is available at an affordable price. Above ground pool cost almost negligible if you count time to value for money. The pool stays stable for years and years. The steel frame keeps the stable pool last long for years. The easy drain feature will make the water draining feature easy at the end of the season.

There are some issues reported by users for PVC walls and leakage. The issues can be sorted by the patchwork but who like to do repair work on a new pool. It has a complicated setup and does not include accessories.

This not small above ground pool is favorite among customers for its quality and price. The rectangle shape is even great to learn swimming.

In the final verdict, choose this pool if you are looking for quality, great size, and price altogether.

#9. Summer Waves 12ft x 36in Above Ground Pool – Cheap Price Ever

This Summer Waves 12ft x 36in Above Ground Pool is another name in the category of the above-ground lap pool. Its simple installation, attractive design, and high-class filter pump reduce above ground pool installation cost and maintenance cost.

However, durability is one of the things that take into account as it has made from the PVC. PVC is durable and not las long as SS. Many users report that it has bad quality and shows holes after a few weeks of holes.

In the final verdict, pick this small above ground pools, only if you are ready to provide proper maintenance to it. If you do not do it, then the effective price is quite high than the sticker price.

#10. Intex Metal Frame 10ft X 30In Above Ground Pool

 

Intex Metal Frame 10ft X 30In Above Ground Pool is small in size, but it is best if you have fewer members in the family. Even the pool set up and installation is effortless. It does not require more workforce as well as time.

The installation and maintenance of the pool are hassle-free. The pool kit comes equipped with the required add-ons for the best experience. A perfect size pool for the small families to enjoy and relax during hot summer days.

A powder-coated strong, durable steel frame is rust-proof and aesthetically pleasing. The robust design incorporated salt water sanitation systems. Easy installation is the fact and ideal for the above ground pool sizes. It has a water capacity of 1185 gallons.

#11. Intex 26′ x 52″ Ultra Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool

Intex 26′ x 52″ Ultra Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool keeps your whole family at a single place at your Intex swimming pools.

When it comes to Intex inflatable pool, you can put this pool at your backyard and fill it water. Once you bought it, you have endless fun for sure in summer. This Intex metal frame pool is round with 26ft in diameter and 4ft tall. It is constructed from a durable powder-coated steel frame, laminated PVC siding, and three different materials; all together gives this pool durability and strength.

It has a sand filter that keeps your pool clean for the whole summer season. To provide extra comfort manufacturer also provides a pool cover, pool ladder, and ground cloth. Once you have a 26ft X 52in pool, what other you need?

In the final verdict, you can buy this pool if you have a large family or you have enough space. Otherwise there no such negative point of this product.

Things To Consider While Buying Above Ground Pools Near Me

You have seen some of the best names like Coleman above ground pools, Intex rectangular pool, and others. Do you know some factors affect the pool, and while buying, you must have to take a look at it? And here I am with another important section which includes all relevant information about above ground pool prices and features. Let’s start it.

#1. Pump, Filter, and other accessories:

Your pool becomes pond if it does not have a pool filter, pool pump, pool ladder, etc. See if pool water can’t get a filter; it becomes green, smelly, quite, and dangerous to use. Some rectangular above ground pools or round pools come with all the equipment whereas in some you have to buy it separately.

Prefer the pool, which offers all these things. It saves your money as well as your time. Do not worry; there are many stores or online pool accessories providers, who offer you world-class and excellent quality of things. What it requires it more $$$$.

#2. Size

You have to consider a few things while choosing the right size for your pool. Like the size of your yard, a number of swimmers in family, want to gather for entertain or not, and the purpose of buying the pool.

If there are two to three members in the family, then the smaller one is perfect for you. Small pools have some limitations like you can’t play pool games in a small pool as well as swimming is hard.

If you have enough space in your backyard, a big pool is best. The average size of the pool is nearby 14×28. It is not a giant, but you can enjoy family swimming, pool party, and exercise.

And the last is a bigger pool which needs some extra care. It takes a longer time to set up, needs regular cleaning, and yes, proper maintenance. These pools are even expansive and eat the major area of your yard. At last, space and qualities should be important for you.

#3. Budget

The product you will choose it based on the bucks in your pocket. For me, budget is a primary factor for buying an above ground pool like Intex easy set pool.

The best quality product ranges between $3000 – $7000, but you can also get under $500-$1000. The quite good or you can say excellent above ground pool cost about $5000.

You have to ask yourself how much you can spend on the pool and what is the good price limit for you without ignoring the price tag.

The above ground pools have three types of price range that are economy, mid-range, and high end. The difference in the price is due to the size and quality of the material.

#4. Location

If you have not chosen the location, then first you have to decide where you want to put your pool. After deciding the location, you know whether you need a rectangle, oval, or round pool.

See, the height of the pool does not depend on the location. The average height ranges between 36-54 inches.

The other best thing about these pools is you can pack it and move to another location according to occasion and choice of space. However, considering the location in advance helps choose size as well as the type of the pool.

You also have to consider the obstacles, available space and safety, and the distance between the pool and obstacle. Make sure you have enough distance between two so that it can’t harm your lovely pool. Do not put the pool on the surface with dry wells, stumps, septic takes, tree roots, and uneven surface.

#5. Materials

When it comes to material for the backyard pools, rust-resistant steel frame is the standard one. It can last for many years without any major issues. They can fight with wear and tear and weather changes. Even the structural maintenance like repairs or patching or other are minimum. Yes, steel-framed pools cost more, but it also provides a long life and value for money.

Other materials are also there like plastic. Even it is best for those who want the unit for a few seasons at a lower price. The inflatable pool are there which are generally available below

$150 or less. They can withstand for a single season. The majority uses for the kids but also available in various lengths and depth.

#6. Above Ground Pool Cost

While looking for several options, one question surely comes into your mind, how much does an above ground pool cost. See, the costing is based on the categories and size of the pool. You can buy a ground pool starting from $100 to some thousand dollars.

As we discuss, we also need service equipment and other accessories like ladders, tools, chemicals for cleaning, filers, and pumps. The overall expanse of these things is based on the cost and quality of your pool. Either they can add few more dollars in the basic price (if not included in the pool package) or can’t add anything in the price tag (if all included in the pool package).

Last but most important are repair work, cost to run the pump, and price to keep your pool full all the time — this maintenance and up keeping work cost you about $300-500/year. The basic price is different, and the overall cost is different, and it is subject to a variable.

#7. Type of above ground pools

They are five types of above ground pool with its unique feature, pros, and cons. Have a look at each individual.

a. Semi-In-Ground

Semi-in ground means the pool is buried almost half in the ground. It is made from 0.25-inch thick tongue and channel aluminum slats on the sides. This type of pool is durable and extremely strong.

These pools are best for places that are not even or level. They are a sturdiest and durable pool available in the market. If your place has a slope and you want to build something like a deck with minimum material, then semi ground pool is the only choice for you.

The best part of this pool is it is compatible with the saltwater sanitization system as it generally constructed from thick aluminum, and it does not rust.

b. Hybrid Above-Ground Pool

It is made from the resin ad steel material and offers both style and functionality. Steel adds strength and durability, and resin reflects modern appearance. The hybrid pools have steel uprights attached to steel coping. The rest of the part is constructed from the resin. Due to the combination, the pool cost low and provides a great level of durability and strength.

c. Resin

In the early 80s, resin material was first introduced to the manufacture of the above-ground pools. With, passing years, the popularity increases as it is less expansive and affordable. Compared to metal, resin pools cost low.

There is various type of resin made above-ground pools — best quality resin ground pool made from Synflex resin. There is lower quality resin also used in the making of the pool, but they softness during hot and cracks in the cold.

If there are temperature changes, then Synflex resin or talc-filled resin material is best. It has good durability as well. They are also perfect for saltwater sanitation applications. After a long time, the parts crack or fade especially when it exposed to

However, over some time, their parts can start to fade or crack, especially when it exposed to UV rays or extreme weather conditions.

d. Aluminum Pool

Aluminum pool made from a single sheet of aluminum. These pools are rustproof and durable, so mostly used for pools with salt water sanitation systems.

It is less expansive compared to the semi-in-ground pool. It is a smart choice for those who are looking long term and affordable saltwater pools. Even f

Aluminum pools are ideal for inclement weather. The only downside is oxidation. When it exposed to air, a layer of aluminum oxide forms on the surface, but it resists aging and rusting.

e. Steel pool

Steel pool is most used and most recommended above ground pool by the experts as well as users. However, steel also has different qualities. Consider the best quality steel in construction if you are investing in a steel pool.

It is best all-rounder ground pools in terms of price and quality, and the reason is its qualities like durability, long-lasting, and sturdiness. Even though they are strongest, they have rust issues. They are cost-effective. The galvanized coated steel is corrosion and rust resistance.

f. Inflatable

Inflatable pools are easy to install and most cost-effective. One could buy it if the user has a low and fixed budget. It is ideal for short term use and less expensive option. You need to check Best Inflatable Hot Tubs.

FAQs for Best Above Ground Pool

You might have questions like what is the cost of above ground pool, how to install above ground pool, or others. For people like you, we have made a list of some frequently asked questions.

1. When to get the best above ground pool?

Whether you want to get the ground pool just before the summer, then my friends, it might not the best time to buy it. The best time is after summer, that is from September to November. Here you will find a great discount on post-summer sales. The pools are cheaper. The only negative point is they come up with a maximum of 6 months of warranty. If you purchase it in winter, then there are fewer chances to find any problem with it.

2. How to fill an above ground pool?

Filling water in the pool is an easy task. You have to grab a garden hose and use it to fill the pool. What you have to look at is that the water filling inside the pool has less pressure compared to the water in the tank. Do double check for the setup and make sure there is no crack or hole on any of wall.

In case while filling the water, you find any defect, turn off the water supply because once the pool is filled, it is hard to adjust or repair the parts. It is better to do it in advance instead of halfway.

3. What is pool circulation?

Pools have an inbuilt circulation system that keeps the water moving continuously. Stillwater is a great source of bacteria, and to avoid bacteria growth; you have to keep the water constantly moving. The pool circulation stops the water from forming bacteria and keep the pool clean and maintain sanitarily.

4. How to maintain the good conditions of the pool?

Most of the above-ground pools do not need special maintenance. The majority of them have water pumps and filter for clean water. In case the filter clogged or pump stops, you have to either clean it or replace it maximum.

5. How to level the ground for a pool?

There are many ways to level the ground. You can create a platform or dig to make a flat surface. The ideal way is to find a flat surface; otherwise, look the place takes the measure and make it flat. Make sure the base you have made is strong to hold the pool on the place. The pool contains thousands of gallons of water, and hence, it needs solid support.

6. What is the depth of the above-ground pools?

The depth of the above ground pool can be from 42inch to 60 inches. According to the dimension, material, and manufacturer of the pool, the depth may vary.

7. How to drain water after summer?

Draining water is quite simple. Each pool has a valve to release the water from the pool. Most have a place to screw the garden hose that takes the water to a specific area.

8. Does the above ground pool require fencing?

Fencing is not required around the pool, but it can keep animals away from it. As the height is sufficient, there is no risk of falling out of the pool. In short, it is safe and hence not need extra safety measures.

9. How above ground pool save my time?

If you have your pool, you do not have to spend time to drive to the local pools or beaches. You have to walk to the backyard and finish; your hot summer pool is ready.

It takes a one-time setup, and your summer is cool. Your family and friends also spend time with you. It is cost-effective and needs less money, and quality time spending is for sure.

Conclusion:

It is time to say goodbye to you. All the best above ground pools have their cons and pros. What you have to look at is the features you want and then look for the best option. Compare all the interesting products and get the best one.