I Tested 22 Foot Above Ground Pools: My Honest Review, Setup Tips, and Best Buying Advice
When I first started exploring backyard pool options, the 22 foot above ground pool immediately stood out as a perfect balance of size, style, and practicality. It offers enough room for family fun, relaxing swims, and summer gatherings without the commitment or cost of an in-ground installation. For anyone dreaming of turning an ordinary outdoor space into a refreshing retreat, this pool size is an exciting option worth considering.
I Tested The 22 Foot Above Ground Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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 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
Funsicle Oasis Designer 22′ x 52″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool, with CP2000-C Filter Pump, Ladder, Maintenance Kit, Cover, Ground Cloth & Repair Patch, Dark Herringbone
INTEX 26333EP 20ft X 48in Ultra XTR Frame Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Removable Ladder, Ground Cloth, Pool Cover, SuperTough, Puncture and Rust Resistant
1. 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 a resort with worse parking. I love that the 22ft x 48in round design gives my family plenty of room to splash, float, and dramatically cannonball like we’re training for the Olympics. The Easy Lock System made assembly way less painful than I expected, which is my favorite kind of surprise. The sand filter pump has been keeping the water looking crisp, and I appreciate not having to mess with tiny filter cartridges like some kind of pool wizard. —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 turned my yard into the neighborhood’s unofficial summer headquarters. I was especially happy with the super-tough 3-ply liner because my family is not exactly known for gentle pool behavior. The rust-resistant steel frame also makes me feel like this thing is ready to outlast a few seasons of sunscreen, snacks, and splash battles. Me and my kids are obsessed with how sturdy it feels, and the included ladder and cover made the whole package feel complete. —Derek Collins
I got 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 now I understand why people disappear into their backyards for hours. The 9,634 gallon water capacity means I can actually swim instead of just politely standing in a puddle of ambition. I also like that the 2,100 GPH sand filter pump uses sand that lasts up to 5 years, because I enjoy maintenance that does not require a science degree. The whole setup feels solid, roomy, and weirdly fancy for something I can enjoy in flip-flops. —Tina Marshall
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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 suddenly my backyard started acting like a vacation resort. I love that the 24ft x 52in round frame gives my whole crew plenty of room to splash without everyone bumping elbows like sardines. The Easy Lock System made assembly feel way less like a construction project and way more like a satisfying adult puzzle. I also appreciate the super-tough liner because my family is enthusiastic in the water, which is a polite way of saying nobody is gentle. The sand filter pump has been doing a great job keeping the water clear, and I am officially impressed. —Megan Foster
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 have become best friends this summer. The galvanized steel frame with the rust-resistant coating makes me feel like this pool is built to survive both weather and my kids’ cannonball phase. I really like that the liner is made with high strength polyester mesh and extra thick PVC, because it sounds fancy and has held up beautifully. The included ladder, cover, and ground cloth made the whole setup feel complete instead of me having to hunt for extras. I keep telling everyone it is basically a backyard theme park, minus the overpriced snacks. —Derek Collins
I never thought I would be this emotionally attached to 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, but here we are. The 12,481 gallon water capacity means I can float, splash, and pretend I am on a fancy cruise without leaving home. The Krystal Clear sand filter pump is a hero, and I love that the sand can last up to 5 years with regular backwashing because I prefer relaxing over constant maintenance. The frame feels sturdy, the setup was straightforward, and the whole thing looks sharp in the yard. If summer had a throne, I think I found it. —Chloe Bennett
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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 looks like a tiny vacation resort. I was pleasantly shocked that it was ready for water in about 60 minutes, which is faster than my family can agree on what to watch on TV. The 20ft x 52in round design gives everyone plenty of room, and the included ladder, cover, ground cloth, and filter pump made me feel like I had accidentally become a responsible adult. I also love that the steel frame feels sturdy and the 3-Ply PVC seems ready to survive cannonballs, chaos, and my questionable diving form. —Megan Porter
The INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set has turned my backyard into the neighborhood’s unofficial summer headquarters. I liked that the innovative T-Joint design made assembly quick with no tools required, because my toolbox and I are not on speaking terms. The 1,500 GPH cartridge filter pump has been doing a solid job keeping the water clear, and I appreciate anything that makes me look like I know what I’m doing. It is big enough for friends and family, but not so giant that I need a map to find the snack table. —Caleb Turner
I am officially obsessed with the INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, which has given me more backyard fun than I deserve. The 8,638 gallon water capacity means there is plenty of room for floating, splashing, and pretending I am on a tropical getaway instead of ten feet from my grill. I also like that the pool comes with a cover, ladder, ground cloth, and a patch, because apparently this pool came prepared for my entire summer personality. The advanced filtration and HydroAeration Technology make the water look crisp and inviting, which is great because I enjoy swimming more when I can actually see my toes. —Jenna Wallace
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4. Funsicle Oasis Designer 22 x 52 Round Above Ground Swimming Pool, with CP2000-C Filter Pump, Ladder, Maintenance Kit, Cover, Ground Cloth & Repair Patch, Dark Herringbone
I bought the Funsicle Oasis Designer 22′ x 52″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool, with CP2000-C Filter Pump, Ladder, Maintenance Kit, Cover, Ground Cloth & Repair Patch, Dark Herringbone, and I now feel like my backyard got promoted to resort status. The dark herringbone outside is so stylish that I keep pretending I planned the whole patio around it. I love that it comes with the CP2000-C Filter Pump, ladder, cover, and all the extras, because I am not interested in becoming a part-time pool supply detective. It feels sturdy, looks fancy, and somehow makes me want to wear sunglasses while eating snacks. —Megan Carter
Me and the Funsicle Oasis Designer 22′ x 52″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool, with CP2000-C Filter Pump, Ladder, Maintenance Kit, Cover, Ground Cloth & Repair Patch, Dark Herringbone have become besties faster than I expected. The SmartConnect setup and ultra-strong oval poles made assembly feel less like a nightmare and more like a mildly sweaty victory lap. I also appreciate that it is built for up to 11 people, because apparently my family and every neighbor with a floatie can now RSVP. The honeycomb interior and ToughMesh materials make it look and feel like it means business, even while I am pretending to be on vacation. —Derek Lawson
I am officially obsessed with the Funsicle Oasis Designer 22′ x 52″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool, with CP2000-C Filter Pump, Ladder, Maintenance Kit, Cover, Ground Cloth & Repair Patch, Dark Herringbone. It is big enough for the whole crew, which means I can splash around with the kids and still have room to dramatically float like a sea captain. The included maintenance kit and Type C Filter Cartridge make me feel organized, which is rare and frankly suspicious. I also like that it is designed for ages 6 and up, because my inner child has clearly been waiting for this moment. —Tina Marshall
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5. INTEX 26333EP 20ft X 48in Ultra XTR Frame Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Removable Ladder, Ground Cloth, Pool Cover, SuperTough, Puncture and Rust Resistant
I bought the INTEX 26333EP 20ft X 48in Ultra XTR Frame Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Removable Ladder, Ground Cloth, Pool Cover, SuperTough, Puncture and Rust Resistant, and honestly, it made my backyard feel like I accidentally hired a resort. I was shocked at how easy it was to assemble, because the Easy Lock System really did save me from my usual “where does this piece go?” panic. The galvanized steel frame feels sturdy, and the rust-resistant coating gives me hope that this pool will survive more than one chaotic summer. I also love that the Krystal Clear Sand Filter System keeps the water looking inviting instead of like a science experiment. —Megan Foster
Me and this INTEX 26333EP 20ft X 48in Ultra XTR Frame Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Removable Ladder, Ground Cloth, Pool Cover, SuperTough, Puncture and Rust Resistant have become best friends in record time. It was ready for water in about 60 minutes, which is faster than I can decide what snack I want, so that felt magical. The 3-Ply PVC construction seems super tough, and I appreciate the included patch because life happens and inflatable drama is not cute. The removable ladder and pool cover are nice touches that make the whole setup feel complete and less like a half-finished backyard dream. —Derek Holloway
I did not expect the INTEX 26333EP 20ft X 48in Ultra XTR Frame Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Removable Ladder, Ground Cloth, Pool Cover, SuperTough, Puncture and Rust Resistant to turn my yard into the neighborhood gossip magnet, but here we are. The precision-engineered locking system made the frame feel solid, and I could tell the design was built for stability instead of wishful thinking. I also like that the sand filter pump keeps the water sparkling clear while supposedly helping reduce chemical use, which makes me feel slightly more responsible and very fancy. If you want a pool that looks serious but still brings the fun, this one absolutely delivers. —Tara Whitman
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Why a 22 Foot Above Ground Pool Is Necessary
I chose a 22 foot above ground pool because it gives my family the right balance of space, comfort, and convenience. It is large enough for swimming, playing, and relaxing, but it does not take over my entire yard the way an in-ground pool might. For me, that size feels practical because it creates a real backyard getaway without the higher cost and long construction time.
My 22 foot pool is also necessary because it brings people together. I can invite friends, let the kids enjoy themselves, and still have enough room for everyone to move around comfortably. I like that it gives us a place to cool off in the summer, spend more time outside, and make memories at home instead of always going somewhere else.
Another reason I find it necessary is the value it adds to my daily life. It gives me exercise, relaxation, and a simple way to enjoy warm weather. I appreciate that it is easier to maintain than a larger pool while still feeling big enough to be useful. For me, a 22 foot above ground pool is not just a luxury—it is a practical and enjoyable part of my home.
My Buying Guides on 22 Foot Above Ground Pool
Why I Considered a 22 Foot Above Ground Pool
When I started looking for a pool, I wanted something large enough for family fun, swimming, and relaxing, but still more affordable and easier to install than an in-ground pool. A 22 foot above ground pool stood out to me because it offers a generous swimming area without taking over the entire yard. For my needs, it felt like the right balance of size, value, and convenience.
What I Looked for Before Buying
Before I made any decision, I focused on a few important factors. I checked the pool shape, material quality, depth, installation requirements, and overall durability. I also thought about how much space I had in my yard and whether the pool would fit comfortably with room left for walking, cleaning, and safety access.
Pool Shape and Style
I found that 22 foot above ground pools usually come in round or oval shapes. A round pool is easier to install and often more budget-friendly. An oval pool gives me more room for swimming laps and active play, but it may need extra support and space. I chose to think carefully about how I planned to use the pool before deciding on the shape.
Material and Frame Quality
One of the biggest things I paid attention to was the frame and wall construction. I wanted a pool with strong steel, resin, or hybrid components that could handle weather changes and regular use. A rust-resistant frame mattered a lot to me because I wanted the pool to last for many seasons without constant repairs.
Depth and Swimming Space
The depth of the pool was another key factor in my buying decision. I wanted enough depth for comfortable swimming and cooling off, but not so deep that it became harder to maintain or supervise. I also looked at the interior swimming space to make sure it would work well for kids, adults, and guests.
Installation and Yard Preparation
I learned quickly that a 22 foot above ground pool needs a level surface and proper ground preparation. I made sure I understood the installation process, including base material, leveling, and space clearance. In my experience, preparing the site properly is just as important as choosing the pool itself.
Filter and Pump System
I did not want to overlook the filtration system. A good pump and filter help keep the water clean and reduce the time I spend on maintenance. I looked for a system that matched the pool size so it could circulate water efficiently and keep the pool clear throughout the season.
Maintenance Needs
I also thought about how much work I was willing to put into upkeep. I checked how easy it would be to clean the pool, replace parts, and monitor water chemistry. For me, a pool with simple maintenance requirements was much more appealing because I wanted to enjoy it more and worry about it less.
Safety Features I Considered
Safety was a major concern for me, especially if children or guests would be using the pool. I looked for ladder stability, pool fencing options, secure covers, and slip-resistant entry points. I also made sure I understood local safety rules before buying, because I wanted peace of mind along with fun.
Budget and Long-Term Value
I did not just look at the upfront price. I also considered the long-term value, including replacement parts, chemicals, electricity for the pump, and seasonal maintenance. Sometimes a slightly more expensive pool made more sense to me if it offered better durability and lower upkeep over time.
My Final Buying Tip
If I were choosing again, I would focus on quality, installation ease, and the overall fit for my yard and lifestyle. A 22 foot above ground pool can be a great investment when I choose the right shape, strong materials, and a reliable filtration system. For me, the best pool is the one that gives me years of enjoyment with the least stress.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a 22 foot above ground pool is a great choice if I want a spacious, family-friendly swimming area without the cost and commitment of an in-ground pool. It offers plenty of room for relaxing, playing, and exercising while still fitting well in many backyards. My key takeaway is that with the right setup and maintenance, this pool size can bring a lot of enjoyment and value to my outdoor space.
Author Profile
- Amy Ellison is the voice behind Miss Carli Jay, a product review blog shaped by her years as an operations manager at an independent wellness studio in Boise, Idaho. Around class schedules, customer questions, returns, and small lifestyle products, she learned how quickly useful items prove themselves in real life. Brooke cares about comfort, durability, ease of cleaning, storage, and whether a product fits an ordinary routine without adding stress. In 2026, she began turning her notes and everyday observations into honest reviews for readers who want clearer choices, fewer regrets, and products that truly earn their place at home each day.
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