If you’ve been searching for the best above-ground pool reviews, you can now stop. You have finally found all the answers you need.
As renters or even folks who are more budget-savvy, inground pools are not always possible.
We are sharing our above-ground pool reviews and the top brands we recommend.
Why an Above-Ground Pool?
If you are like us, you love summer! Better yet? You love summer heat but the cool down in water is oh so refreshing!
We have always had an above-ground pool each summer, even if it is one of those little kiddy pools that only really hold room for your feet or your dog.
During the pandemic, we practically lived in our backyard pool- an above-ground pool that it! We went through a ton of them. Many would hold up for a few weeks; then they would deflate.
Not until this year did we begin to really look through the best above-ground pools and all of the above-ground pool reviews. We are sharing your top results and our review of them.
We will also share with you the best above-ground pool deals and, of course, our favorite and recommended above-ground pool.
The Top Above-Ground Pool Reviews
After you read these above-ground pool reviews, you can begin turning your backyard into a summer oasis without breaking the bank.
The pools we recommend are under $300 when you factor in the supplies you will need. These also fit 4-5 people comfortably. Since we are just two adults and a dog, these are the perfect fit for us!
Above-ground pools are the ultimate ticket to cool, refreshing fun right at home. Whether you dream of lazy days lounging by the water or hosting intimate pool parties, these versatile pools are a game-changer for your summah-daze!
1. Intex 10ft x 30in Prism Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool
We’re not saving the best for last. We are putting the best above-ground pool here at number one. It is the best, and if you purchase this one and stop reading, you will be all set for summer!
This is the pool we are enjoying, and we could not say enough fabulous things about this baby!
Why People Love It:
- “Great material, perfect for family fun.”
- “Perfect size for kids, keeps them entertained for hours.”
- “Easy to assemble, durable for active use.”
- “Must-have for your backyard oasis!” -This one is from us, by the way!
Where to Buy: Amazon Walmart Target
2. Coleman Steel Pro 12 ft. x 33 in. Round Metal Frame Above Ground Pool
Coleman is a great name in outdoor products, so it’s no surprise that they are killing it with their above-ground pool. This 12 ft. x 33 in. round above ground is a perfect size if you want a pool perfect for adults and kids.
Why People Love It:
- “Great price and size for my yard, easy setup with pool filter pump included.”
- “Setup was quick, up to my hips, and everything needed was included. Excited for summer!”
- “Already loving it! Great functionality and durable pool liner. Surpassed expectations!”
Where to Buy: Walmart
3. Funsicle 12′ x 36″ QuickSet Ring Top Above Ground Swimming Pool
Is Funsicle the best name for a pool ever? This pool has a really chic look to it! If you want to veer off from the traditional blue pool, the Funsicle wins! It looks like a round wicker basket!
Why People Love It:
- “Amazing pool! Easy setup, fits 6-7 comfortably.”
- “Great quality and durability. We love the stylish wicker design.”
- “Perfect for a family of 5. Thrilled with size, depth, and affordability.”
4. Bestway Steel Pro 12′ x 30″ Round Above Ground Pool
This above-ground pool is known for being sturdy and reliable. It is very similar to the others but is often praised for its robust frame and ease of maintenance.
Why People Love It:
- “Great for summer! Perfect depth for kids, dogs, and adults to sprawl out. Easy to assemble and store.”
- “Fast setup and fills quickly. From box to swim in under an hour.”
- “Holds around 300 gallons, ideal for a family of four. Can use without a security fence.”
What Other Pool Equipment Do You Need?
Above-ground pool reviews will tell you a lot about the pool. What about the other equipment?
You can search for a pool package for above-ground pools that says it includes everything you need, but until you get the above-ground pool, you don’t really know or realize what works best for your needs.
We are listing the items that we purchased after receiving and setting up our Intex above-ground round pool.
Filter Pump
Our Intex pool came with a filter and pump, which were taken care of. If you have to purchase a filter separately, consider whether you want a sand filter or a cartridge filter. Sand filters do not filter microns as small as cartridge filters.
Pool Cleaners
You are going to need chlorine and a way to put the chlorine into the pool. We use the 1″ chlorine tablets. Our pool takes two tablets per week.
You drop the chlorine tablets into the dispenser. It floats around the pool and dispenses it as it breaks down.
When our pool began filling, it started to turn green. We discovered that it meant our water had chemicals that needed removal. A product was recommended and worked beautifully: CuLator. We added the packet to another floating dispenser. Within a day, our water was crystal clear again. Bonus: apparently, it will keep the wall liner clean as well.
A hand skimmer is perfect! Since the pool isn’t huge, the smaller skimmer works perfectly for getting debris out.
We went a step further and purchased the Pool Blaster Broom Cordless Vacuum. We found that some debris was getting to the floor of the pool and we wanted to keep it as clean as possible.
Pool Protection
We highly recommend you purchase a pool cover. We went with a 10 foot round solar pool cover. It keeps debris from coming in from a nearby tree and general wear from constant sun exposure.
We actually found this cover in above-ground pool reviews. We knew that it was a fave amongst the 10 foot pool owners.
Know Before You Go
Our top recommendations are all less than $300. There are plenty of others out there like the Intex Ultra XTR Frame Pool that people rave about, but at a price of over $1K, we skipped it.
Be sure to install your pool on a flat surface. We cleared out a 10-foot diameter in our backyard and made sure there were no rocks, sticks, roots, or anything that would potentially damage the bottom of the pool.
We put some old yoga mats and a tarp under the pool for added protection. This makes the floor of the pool a little more cushy, and we love that!
Want to spruce up your backyard even more? Check out our Easy DIY Cozy Backyard Patio Ideas for a chic outdoor space!
If you’re a renter and you want to know if inflatable hot tubs are worth it, read on!
FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on your local regulations. We do not need one for our above-ground pool because it is smaller than the size that requires a fence. Always check with your local laws and statutes.
Many studies show that a well-taken care of above-ground pool can last anywhere from 5-15 years. We felt like this was a much better investment than constantly buying the small, cheap blow-up pools every summer. Plus, it is better for the environment.
If you keep it clean with chlorine and a filter, you may only need to change it once/year.
