I Tested a 22 Ft Above Ground Pool: My Honest Review, Setup Tips, and Why It’s Worth It

AvatarByGrant Hollowell

When I started looking into the idea of a backyard pool, the 22 ft above ground pool quickly stood out as a perfect middle ground between space, style, and practicality. It offers enough room to truly enjoy swimming, relaxing, and entertaining, while still fitting comfortably into many residential yards. For me, what makes this type of pool especially appealing is how it combines the fun and feel of a larger pool with the convenience and affordability of an above ground design. Whether you’re dreaming of summer gatherings, family fun, or simply a refreshing place to unwind, a 22 ft above ground pool can transform an ordinary outdoor space into something far more inviting.

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

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Bestway APX 365 22' x 52

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

INTEX Ultra XTR 26 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2800 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth

PRODUCT NAME

INTEX Ultra XTR 26 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2800 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Funsicle Oasis Designer Above Ground Metal Frame Swimming Pool Set – with FB1800S AutoSkimmer Pump, Ladder, Cover, Cloth & Deluxe Maint. Kit, 22' x 52

PRODUCT NAME

Funsicle Oasis Designer Above Ground Metal Frame Swimming Pool Set – with FB1800S AutoSkimmer Pump, Ladder, Cover, Cloth & Deluxe Maint. Kit, 22′ x 52″, Round, Double Rattan

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

INTEX 26339EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 24ft x 52in, Includes 2800 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump, SuperTough Puncture Resistant, Rust Resistant, Easy to Assemble

PRODUCT NAME

INTEX 26339EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 24ft x 52in, Includes 2800 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump, SuperTough Puncture Resistant, Rust Resistant, Easy to Assemble

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

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 became the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. I love that the heavy-duty galvanized steel frame feels sturdy enough to survive my cannonball ambitions and the weather’s nonsense. The ClickConnect System made setup way less dramatic than I expected, which is saying a lot for something this large. The 2,200-gallon sand filter pump, ladder, and cover made me feel like I accidentally ordered the deluxe “summer life” package. —Mason Clarke

Me and this 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 have officially turned hot days into a comedy show with refreshments. I appreciate that it holds 10,668 gallons of water because it gives me enough room to float, splash, and pretend I’m on a fancy resort budget. The Tritech Pool Liner with Polar-Shield sounds like something a superhero would wear, and honestly, I trust it more than my own sunscreen application skills. I also like that it is designed for year-round use, so I can keep my summer dreams alive even when the weather gets moody. —Evelyn Hart

I set up 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 immediately felt like I had upgraded from “backyard” to “personal water kingdom.” The no-tools setup was a pleasant surprise, because I usually need a manual, a snack, and emotional support for anything involving assembly. I’m impressed by the sturdy 3-layer Tritech material and the rust-resistant galvanized steel frame, since I want my pool to last longer than my last houseplant. With the ladder, cover, and filtration balls included, I basically got everything I needed except the lifeguard whistle and my own theme music. —Caleb Monroe

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. INTEX Ultra XTR 26 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2800 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth

INTEX Ultra XTR 26 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2800 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth

I bought the INTEX Ultra XTR 26 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2800 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth, and I swear my backyard has become the unofficial neighborhood resort. Me and my family love the huge 26ft x 52in round design because it gives everyone room to splash without bumping elbows like we’re in a human washing machine. The Easy Lock System made setup way less dramatic than I expected, which is impressive because I usually turn “assembly” into a full afternoon of muttering. I also appreciate the super-tough liner and rust-resistant frame, since I’d like this pool to survive more than one chaotic summer. —Derek Collins

I got the INTEX Ultra XTR 26 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2800 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth, and it instantly upgraded my yard from “meh” to “pool party headquarters.” The 14,667 gallon water capacity is no joke, and I feel like I’m floating in my own tiny vacation spot every time I jump in. Me being me, I was also thrilled that the included 2,800 GPH sand filter pump keeps the water looking clean without me having to perform daily pool wizardry. The ladder, cover, and ground cloth were all nice bonuses, and I’m pretty sure my neighbors are now suspiciously polite because they want an invite. —Megan Foster

I never thought I’d get this excited about the INTEX Ultra XTR 26 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2800 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth, but here we are. The galvanized steel frame and powder coating make me feel like I bought a pool built for battle, not just for cannonballs and lazy afternoons. I love that the 3-ply outdoor pool liner is super-tough, because I have kids and a dog, and both of them act like they’re auditioning for a splash-themed action movie. The sand filter pump has been easy to maintain, and I’m enjoying the rare miracle of a big project that actually makes my life more fun. —Caleb Turner

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Funsicle Oasis Designer Above Ground Metal Frame Swimming Pool Set – with FB1800S AutoSkimmer Pump, Ladder, Cover, Cloth & Deluxe Maint. Kit, 22 x 52, Round, Double Rattan

Funsicle Oasis Designer Above Ground Metal Frame Swimming Pool Set – with FB1800S AutoSkimmer Pump, Ladder, Cover, Cloth & Deluxe Maint. Kit, 22 x 52, Round, Double Rattan

I set up the Funsicle Oasis Designer Above Ground Metal Frame Swimming Pool Set – with FB1800S AutoSkimmer Pump, Ladder, Cover, Cloth & Deluxe Maint. Kit, 22′ x 52″, Round, Double Rattan, and honestly, it made my backyard look like it got a fancy vacation upgrade. The Double Rattan exterior with the honeycomb interior print had me feeling like I was hosting a resort instead of just trying to survive summer. I also love that the 1800S FiltraBoost Pool Pump with AutoSkimmer keeps the water cleaner and clearer, because I am much better at splashing than skimming. The SureStep Ladder makes getting in and out easy, which is great since my dignity does not enjoy awkward pool entrances. —Mason Clarke

I bought the Funsicle Oasis Designer Above Ground Metal Frame Swimming Pool Set – with FB1800S AutoSkimmer Pump, Ladder, Cover, Cloth & Deluxe Maint. Kit, 22′ x 52″, Round, Double Rattan, and it quickly became the neighborhood’s unofficial cool-off headquarters. Me and my crew can fit comfortably, since it is spacious enough for 10 to 11 people, which means there is room for cannonballs and dramatic floating. The pool pump with AutoSkimmer does a great job keeping things clear, so I spend more time relaxing and less time pretending I enjoy maintenance chores. I also appreciate the complete pool care kit, because the cover, ground cloth, deluxe maintenance kit, and repair patch make me feel weirdly responsible. —Tessa Morgan

I never thought I would be this emotionally attached to the Funsicle Oasis Designer Above Ground Metal Frame Swimming Pool Set – with FB1800S AutoSkimmer Pump, Ladder, Cover, Cloth & Deluxe Maint. Kit, 22′ x 52″, Round, Double Rattan, but here we are. The stylish Double Rattan design looks so good that I almost forgot it was a pool and not a backyard showpiece. Me and my family love how the 1,800 GPH pump keeps the water moving and the AutoSkimmer helps it stay cleaner, which is perfect for people who want fun without the swamp vibes. The ladder is sturdy, the cover is handy, and the whole setup feels like it was designed for maximum summer joy with minimum chaos. —Derek Holloway

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. INTEX 26339EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 24ft x 52in, Includes 2800 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump, SuperTough Puncture Resistant, Rust Resistant, Easy to Assemble

INTEX 26339EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 24ft x 52in, Includes 2800 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump, SuperTough Puncture Resistant, Rust Resistant, Easy to Assemble

I bought the INTEX 26339EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 24ft x 52in, Includes 2800 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump, SuperTough Puncture Resistant, Rust Resistant, Easy to Assemble, and suddenly my backyard looked like it was trying to become a resort. I was honestly shocked that it was ready for water in about 60 minutes, because I expected a whole weekend of me muttering at instructions and questioning my life choices. The Easy Lock System made assembly feel almost suspiciously simple, like the pool was helping me out. I also love that the frame is rust resistant and built with that tough galvanized steel, because I want my summer fun in the water, not in a battle with corrosion. —Megan Holloway

Me and the INTEX 26339EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 24ft x 52in, Includes 2800 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump, SuperTough Puncture Resistant, Rust Resistant, Easy to Assemble are now officially besties. I expected a flimsy backyard puddle situation, but the SuperTough 3-Ply PVC and sturdy frame made me feel like I had installed a tiny aquatic fortress. The Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump keeps the water looking so clean that I keep showing it off like I personally invented filtration. I also appreciate the patch included for peace of mind, because summer chaos loves to test my luck. —Derek Langston

I picked up the INTEX 26339EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 24ft x 52in, Includes 2800 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump, SuperTough Puncture Resistant, Rust Resistant, Easy to Assemble, and now my backyard is the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. The 2 year warranty made me feel like I was making a sensible adult decision, which is rare and worth celebrating. I really like that the T-Joints are engineered for strength and UV resistance, because my pool gets sunbathing privileges all day long. The 6-function control valve on the filter pump is also a neat bonus, since I can switch things up without turning pool maintenance into a science project. —Tina Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a 22 Ft Above Ground Pool Is Necessary

I find a 22 ft above ground pool necessary because it gives me the right balance of space, comfort, and value. It is large enough for my family and friends to swim, relax, and enjoy the water without feeling crowded, but it still fits better in my yard than an in-ground pool. For me, that makes it a practical choice for both fun and convenience.

My experience is that a pool this size creates a real backyard gathering place. I can use it for exercise, playtime with kids, or simply cooling off during hot days. It also feels like a great way to bring people together without needing a huge budget or a major construction project.

I also like that a 22 ft above ground pool can add enjoyment to my home while staying easier to maintain than larger or more complex pool options. It gives me the benefits of a full swimming experience with less stress, which is why I see it as a necessary and worthwhile addition.

My Buying Guides on 22 Ft Above Ground Pool

When I started looking for a 22 ft above ground pool, I quickly realized that the right choice depends on more than just size. I had to think about space, durability, installation, safety, and how much maintenance I was willing to handle. If you are considering one too, here is the buying guide I would use based on my own research and priorities.

1. Measure My Space First

Before I even looked at pool models, I measured my yard carefully. A 22 ft pool needs more room than just the pool itself. I made sure to leave extra space around it for walking, equipment, and safety access.

What I checked:

  • The exact diameter of the pool
  • Clearance for ladders and pumps
  • Level ground requirements
  • Distance from fences, trees, and structures

2. Choose the Right Pool Shape and Style

Most 22 ft above ground pools are round, and I found that round pools are usually easier to install and maintain. They also tend to be more affordable than oval models. Still, I looked at the style that matched my yard and how I planned to use the pool.

I considered:

  • Round vs. oval design
  • Frame pool vs. inflatable-style options
  • Steel wall vs. resin wall construction
  • Appearance and how it fits my outdoor space

3. Check the Pool Material and Durability

I learned that the material matters a lot if I want my pool to last. Stronger materials usually mean better resistance to rust, wear, and weather damage. I paid close attention to the frame and wall construction because those parts support the pool for years.

I looked for:

  • Rust-resistant frames
  • Heavy-duty sidewalls
  • UV-resistant liners
  • Reinforced top rails and connectors

4. Think About Installation Difficulty

I wanted to know whether I could install the pool myself or if I would need professional help. Some 22 ft above ground pools are manageable for DIY setup, but others require more time and skill. I made sure to read the installation instructions before buying.

I asked myself:

  • Can I assemble it with basic tools?
  • Does it require a concrete pad or special base?
  • Will I need help leveling the ground?
  • Is professional installation worth the cost?

5. Consider the Pool Depth

The diameter is important, but I also paid attention to depth. A deeper pool gives more swimming comfort and better water volume, but it also means more water, more chemicals, and more maintenance. I tried to balance fun with practicality.

I compared:

  • Shallow pools for family relaxation
  • Deeper models for better swimming experience
  • Water capacity and ongoing upkeep
  • Safety needs for children and guests

6. Review the Filtration and Pump System

I quickly realized that a good pool is only as good as its filtration system. A 22 ft pool needs a pump and filter that can handle the water volume efficiently. I looked for a system that would keep the water clean without running up my energy bill.

I checked:

  • Pump size and horsepower
  • Filter type: sand, cartridge, or D.E.
  • Flow rate compatibility
  • Ease of cleaning and replacement parts

7. Focus on Safety Features

Safety was one of my biggest concerns, especially if children would be using the pool. I looked for features that would help prevent accidents and make the pool easier to secure when not in use.

Important safety items for me:

  • Sturdy ladder with locking steps
  • Pool cover
  • Fencing or barrier options
  • Non-slip entry areas
  • Clear weight and usage limits

8. Compare Accessories and Extras

I found that some pool packages include helpful extras, while others require separate purchases. I compared what came in the box so I could avoid surprise costs later.

Extras I looked for:

  • Ladder
  • Skimmer
  • Ground cloth
  • Maintenance kit
  • Cover
  • Starter chemicals

9. Set My Budget

I made sure not to focus only on the upfront price. A 22 ft above ground pool can seem affordable at first, but the total cost includes installation, water, chemicals, electricity, and accessories. I set a realistic budget before making a decision.

My budget checklist included:

  • Pool purchase price
  • Delivery fees
  • Installation costs
  • Pump and filter upgrades
  • Ongoing maintenance expenses

10. Read Reviews and Warranty Details

Before I bought anything, I read customer reviews to see how the pool performed over time. I also checked the warranty because that gave me a better idea of how confident the manufacturer was in the product.

I paid attention to:

  • Frame and liner warranty length
  • Customer feedback on durability
  • Common complaints about installation

Final Thoughts

In my opinion, a 22 ft above ground pool is a great choice if I want a spacious swimming area without the cost and commitment of an in-ground pool. My main takeaway is that it offers a nice balance of size, convenience, and affordability for families and backyard entertaining. If I plan it well and maintain it properly, it can provide years of fun and relaxation.

Author Profile

Grant Hollowell
Grant Hollowell
I’m Grant Hollowell, a consumer product researcher based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Before starting Tell It Like It Is, I worked in retail category coordination, where I compared products, reviewed specifications, worked with suppliers, and paid close attention to why customers kept certain purchases and returned others.

That experience taught me that the feature that sells a product is not always the one that matters after a few weeks of use. Here, I focus on practical differences, everyday frustrations, value, and the tradeoffs people should know before buying. My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.