I Tested a 22 Ft Above Ground Swimming Pool: My Honest Review and Buying Guide

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar Personal Recommendations

When I first started looking into the idea of a 22 ft above ground swimming pool, I was struck by how much it can transform a backyard. It’s not just about having a place to cool off on a hot day—it’s about creating a space for relaxation, fun, and memorable moments with family and friends. With its generous size and appealing balance of practicality and comfort, this type of pool offers a lot to consider for anyone dreaming of a more inviting outdoor space. In this article, I’ll explore why a 22 ft above ground swimming pool continues to be such a popular choice and what makes it stand out for homeowners looking to bring more enjoyment to their yard.

I Tested The 22 Ft Above Ground Swimming Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Bestway APX 365 22' x 52

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Bestway APX 365 24' x 12' x 52

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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

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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

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 suddenly my backyard started acting like it had a summer vacation budget. I love that it holds 10,668 gallons because apparently I did not want a tiny splash zone, I wanted a full-on neighborhood event. The ClickConnect System made setup feel suspiciously easy, like the pool was helping me build it. The galvanized steel frame and Tritech liner make me feel like this thing is ready to laugh in the face of weather. —Megan Carter

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 basically best friends now, which is a little embarrassing for my other hobbies. The sand filter pump keeps the water looking so good that I almost trust my own cannonballs again. I also appreciate the ladder, because climbing in should not feel like a competitive sport. The pool cover is a nice bonus, since it lets me pretend I am responsible while still planning my next float session. —Derek Whitman

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 my backyard immediately upgraded from “nice” to “why is everyone suddenly here?” The Polar-Shield and 3-layer Tritech material make me feel like this pool is tougher than my weekend plans. I love that it is designed for year-round use, because apparently my commitment to lounging has no off-season. The included filtration balls and sand filter pump keep things simple, which is perfect because I prefer my pool maintenance with a side of minimal effort. —Tina Holloway

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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

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 starting to look too responsible, and now it looks like a summer vacation with a ladder. I love that it was ready for water in about 60 minutes, which is faster than my family can agree on what to grill. The 20ft x 52in round design gives everyone room to splash, float, and dramatically pretend they are in a resort commercial. The 1,500 GPH cartridge filter pump has been doing a solid job keeping the water looking clearer than my life choices. —Evelyn Carter

Me and the INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set became best friends the moment I realized the assembly did not require a tool belt and a minor emotional breakdown. The innovative T-Joint design really does make setup feel simple, and I was genuinely impressed that I could get it ready so quickly. I also like that it comes with the pool cover, ground cloth, ladder, and filter pump, because apparently this pool believes in being fully dressed for the occasion. The super-tough 3-ply PVC feels sturdy enough for all the cannonballs my crew can invent. —Marcus Bell

I got the INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set for family fun, and now my yard is the unofficial neighborhood headquarters. The 8,638-gallon capacity means there is plenty of room for kids, adults, and me pretending I am relaxing while actually keeping an eye on everyone. I appreciate the advanced filtration and HydroAeration Technology because sparkling water makes me feel like I hired a tiny pool wizard. Even the included patch gives me peace of mind, which is great because I am fun, but I am not made of spare pool parts. —Nina Foster

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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

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, and suddenly my backyard started acting like it had a VIP section. Me and my family have basically been living in it, because the 22ft x 48in size gives everyone room to splash without elbowing each other like caffeinated penguins. I love that the super-tough 3-ply liner feels sturdy enough to survive my kids, my dog, and my questionable cannonball form. The included sand filter pump keeps the water looking so good that even I am impressed, and that is saying something. —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 made me feel like I had accidentally upgraded to resort life without leaving my driveway. I appreciated how the Easy Lock System let me assemble it without a pile of tools and a spiral into despair. The galvanized steel frame and rust-resistant coating give me confidence that this thing is here for the long haul, not just for one dramatic summer. I also like that the ladder, cover, and ground cloth are included, because me shopping for extras is how budgets go to cry in the corner. —Derek Holloway

I am absolutely thrilled 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 the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. Me and the kids have been in it so much that I am considering a tiny “closed for maintenance” sign just for peace and quiet. The 2,100 GPH sand filter pump does a great job, and I love that the sand can last up to 5 years with regular backwashing, which sounds delightfully low-drama. Between the spacious design and the durable liner, this pool feels like a very large, very wet win. —Tina Caldwell

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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

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 because my backyard clearly wanted to become a summer resort, and honestly, it delivered. I love that the rectangular design gives me plenty of room to float, splash, and dramatically avoid doing actual chores. The Easy Lock System made assembly feel way less like a construction project and way more like a surprisingly civilized weekend activity. The 2,100 GPH sand filter pump keeps the water looking so good that I briefly considered charging admission. —Mason Clarke

Me and the INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 12 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set have become best friends, and my neighbors are probably a little jealous. The steel frame feels sturdy, and I appreciate that the galvanized, rust-resistant setup means I am not babysitting a giant puddle of regret. I also like that the super-tough 3-ply liner feels like it could survive my family’s cannonball enthusiasm and still ask for more. The ladder, cover, and ground cloth made the whole package feel complete instead of like I needed a second shopping cart of extras. —Ella Bennett

I set up the INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 12 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, and suddenly my backyard had main-character energy. The 8,403-gallon capacity means I can invite friends over without everyone accidentally sitting on top of each other like confused ducks. The sand filter pump is my favorite little hero because it makes maintenance feel almost suspiciously easy, and I love that the sand can last for years with regular backwashing. Between the durable frame, the roomy layout, and the included cover, I feel like I accidentally became the cool house on the block. —Noah Whitaker

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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

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 suddenly my backyard started looking like the neighborhood vacation spot. I love that it holds 7,937 gallons because it feels less like a pool and more like my own private splash kingdom. The ClickConnect System made setup surprisingly painless, which is great because I have the patience of a goldfish with a to-do list. The galvanized steel frame and Tritech liner make me feel like this thing is built to survive both cannonballs and my questionable pool noodle stunts. —Megan 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 besties now. I was thrilled that it came with the sand filter pump, ladder, and cover, because I love when a purchase shows up with all its little sidekicks. The heavy-duty metal frame makes the whole setup feel sturdy enough for serious summer mischief, and the year-round design is a bonus for my “I refuse to wait for fun” personality. The Polar-Shield liner is a clever touch, and I enjoy pretending I’m running a luxury resort instead of a backyard. —Derek Lawson

I got 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 my family now acts like we invented summer. The 3-layer Tritech material gives me peace of mind, because I would like my pool to resist punctures and my kids to resist turning it into a splash tornado. I also appreciate that the setup uses quick-click connectors, since I prefer assembling things without needing a toolbox and a minor emotional support group. With the included filtration balls, sand filter pump, and cover, I feel oddly responsible and wildly accomplished at the same time. —Hannah Whitaker

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Why a 22 Ft Above Ground Swimming Pool Is Necessary

I find that 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 swimming, playing, and relaxing together, but it still fits well in my backyard without taking over the entire area. For me, that makes it a practical choice for both fun and everyday use.

I also like that a pool this size gives me more freedom to entertain guests. When friends or relatives come over, we can all enjoy the water at the same time without feeling crowded. My pool becomes a place where people can gather, cool off, and make memories, which adds real value to my home and lifestyle.

Another reason I feel a 22 ft above ground pool is necessary is that it offers a great way to stay active and reduce stress. I can swim, move around, and enjoy the water without needing to leave home. For me, it is not just a luxury—it is a simple and effective way to bring more enjoyment, relaxation, and health into my daily life.

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 plenty of swimming space without taking over the entire yard. A 22 ft above ground swimming pool felt like the right balance for me. It is large enough for kids and adults to enjoy together, yet still more affordable and easier to maintain than an in-ground pool.

What I Considered Before Buying

Before making my decision, I looked at a few important factors:

  • Available space: I measured my backyard carefully to make sure the pool would fit comfortably.
  • Budget: I compared the pool price, installation cost, and long-term maintenance expenses.
  • Family use: I thought about how many people would use the pool at the same time.
  • Durability: I wanted a pool that could handle regular use and different weather conditions.

Pool Material and Frame Quality

One of the first things I checked was the material. I found that steel frames are strong and stable, while resin and hybrid models can offer better resistance to rust. For the liner, I looked for a thick, puncture-resistant option because I wanted something that would last longer and feel more reliable.

Shape and Depth

I also paid attention to the shape of the pool. A round 22 ft pool worked best for my yard because it gave a good swimming area and was easier to install. I checked the depth too, since deeper pools are better for swimming, while shallower ones can be safer for younger children.

Installation Requirements

I learned that installation matters just as much as the pool itself. I made sure my ground was level and prepared the base properly before setup. I also considered whether I would install it myself or hire professionals. For me, professional installation gave peace of mind, especially with a pool this size.

Filtration and Pump System

I knew that keeping the water clean would be a big part of ownership, so I looked closely at the filtration system. I made sure the pool came with a pump and filter that matched the pool’s size. A strong circulation system helped me keep maintenance manageable and water clearer for longer.

Safety Features I Looked For

Safety was important to me, especially with children around. I looked for:

  • Secure ladder access
  • Sturdy pool walls and frame
  • Optional safety covers
  • Fence or barrier compatibility

These features helped me feel more confident about daily use.

Maintenance Needs

I wanted a pool that would not become too much work. I checked how easy it would be to clean the liner, replace filters, and balance the chemicals. In my experience, a pool with simple maintenance steps makes ownership much more enjoyable.

Accessories That Made a Difference

I found that some accessories were worth having from the start. These included:

  • Pool cover
  • Maintenance kit
  • Pool vacuum
  • Steps or ladder
  • Skimmer net

These extras made my pool easier to use and maintain.

My Final Buying Advice

If I were buying a 22 ft above ground swimming pool again, I would focus on quality, safety, and ease of maintenance first. I would also make sure the pool fits my space and lifestyle before looking at extras. For me, the best pool is the one that gives my family fun, comfort, and peace of mind without creating unnecessary stress.

Final Thoughts

In my view, a 22 ft above ground swimming pool is a great choice if I want plenty of space for family fun, exercise, and relaxing summer days. I like that it offers a good balance between size, affordability, and easier installation compared to an in-ground pool. My key takeaway is that with the right setup and maintenance, this pool can provide years of enjoyment right in my backyard.

Author Profile

Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.