I Tested 22 Above Ground Pool Ideas: Best Picks, Setup Tips, and Smart Buying Advice
When I think about creating a backyard space that feels like a true getaway, the 22 above ground pool immediately stands out as a smart and inviting option. It offers a balance of size, style, and practicality that can transform an ordinary outdoor area into a place for relaxation, fun, and memorable gatherings. Whether I’m imagining summer afternoons with family, quiet evenings by the water, or simply a more enjoyable way to cool off, this kind of pool brings a lot to the table. In this article, I’ll explore why the 22 above ground pool has become such an appealing choice for homeowners looking to make the most of their outdoor space.
I Tested The 22 Above Ground Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
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
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
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
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 it holds 10,668 gallons of water, because apparently I enjoy pretending I own a tiny resort. The ClickConnect System made setup feel way less like a chore and way more like a victory lap. The sand filter pump and ladder were nice bonuses, and the whole thing feels sturdy enough to survive my family’s cannonball ambitions. —Megan Foster
Me and my crew are absolutely obsessed with 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. The galvanized steel frame gives me serious confidence, like this pool is built to outlast my questionable pool noodle skills. I also appreciate the Tritech Pool Liner with Polar-Shield, because I like my pool tough, not dramatic. Having the cover included means I can pretend I am a responsible adult when the day is over. —Derek Collins
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 I felt like I had unlocked the final boss of backyard fun. The no-tools setup was a blessing, because I have the patience of a caffeinated squirrel. I really like that it is designed for year-round use, so my pool does not have to hibernate like a lazy bear. The reusable filtration balls and 2,200-gallon sand filter pump keep the water looking ready for a splashy royal entrance. —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 now my backyard feels like it accidentally became a resort. I love that the 24ft x 52in size gives my family plenty of room, because apparently everyone I know suddenly “loves swimming.” The easy lock system made assembly way less dramatic than I expected, which is saying a lot for me and instructions. The rust-resistant steel frame and super-tough liner make me feel like this thing is built to survive both summer fun and my cannonball ambitions. —Megan Hart
I went with 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 it has been the star of every hot day since. Me and my kids are obsessed with how spacious it is, because there is finally enough room for actual swimming instead of polite splashing. The included sand filter pump keeps the water looking so clean that I almost trust it more than my own kitchen sink. I also appreciate the ladder, cover, and ground cloth, since they make the whole setup feel like a complete package instead of a scavenger hunt. —Derek Collins
I never thought I would get 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 capacity is basically a small lake with better manners, and I am not mad about it. The galvanized steel frame and extra-thick PVC liner give me confidence that this pool is not going to throw a tantrum after one season. I also love that the sand filter is designed for easy maintenance, because I prefer relaxing in the water to becoming a part-time pool scientist. —Tina Brooks
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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 starting to look suspiciously like a patch of grass, and now it looks like a vacation spot with a ladder. I loved that it was ready for water in about 60 minutes, because my patience is about as deep as a kiddie pool before coffee. The 20ft x 52in round size gives my family plenty of room to splash, float, and dramatically pretend we are on a tropical resort. The 1,500 GPH cartridge filter pump has been keeping the water looking way better than my post-lawn-mowing face. —Megan Foster
Me and the INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set became best friends the second I realized the setup did not require a toolbox tantrum. The innovative T-Joint design made assembly feel almost suspiciously easy, which is not something I usually say about anything with “steel frame” in the description. I also appreciate the super-tough 3-Ply PVC, because my kids treat pool time like an Olympic contact sport. The cover and ground cloth were a nice bonus, and now my backyard feels organized enough to fool the neighbors. —Caleb Turner
I got the INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, and honestly, it has turned me into the unofficial mayor of summer. The 8,638 gallon water capacity means everybody can jump in without immediately arguing over elbow space, which feels like a miracle. I have also noticed the advanced filtration with HydroAeration Technology keeps the water clearer, so I spend more time relaxing and less time playing pool detective. The ladder makes my grand entrance look dignified, even when I am carrying a snack float and absolutely not being dignified. —Hannah Pierce
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4. 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. I love that the 22ft x 48in size gives my family enough room to splash around without everyone bumping elbows like we are in a very wet elevator. The Easy Lock System made assembly feel way less like a construction project and way more like adult LEGO time. The sand filter pump keeps the water looking so clean that I almost trust it more than my own judgment on a hot day. —Megan Harper
Me and 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 have become best friends, and my lawn is a little jealous. I really appreciate the super-tough 3-ply liner because my family is not exactly known for gentle behavior, yet this thing handles the chaos like a champ. The galvanized steel frame also makes me feel like I accidentally installed a tiny fortress of fun. I keep telling people it is a pool, but honestly it feels more like a summer vacation that forgot to charge me airfare. —Derek Lawson
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 my weekends are basically scheduled around cannonballs. The included ladder, cover, and ground cloth made the whole setup feel complete, which is great because I am not interested in playing “find the missing accessory” at 8 a.m. The rust-resistant frame gives me confidence that this giant splash zone is in it for the long haul. Me and the kids are having an absurd amount of fun, and even the sand filter pump is doing its job like a quiet little overachiever. —Tina Caldwell
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5. 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, and suddenly my backyard started acting like it was on vacation. I love the dark herringbone look because it makes me feel like I installed a fancy resort instead of a giant splash bowl. The setup was surprisingly efficient, and the ultra-strong oval poles made me feel like I was assembling something built to survive my relatives. The CP2000-C Filter Pump has been doing its job while I pretend I am a responsible pool owner. —Megan Foster
Me and the Funsicle Oasis Designer 22′ x 52″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool have become best friends, mostly because it holds enough water for the whole crew to stop arguing over who gets the “good seat.” I really like that it comes with the ladder, maintenance kit, cover, ground cloth, and repair patch, because apparently the pool also brought its own support team. The 3-ply ToughMesh materials make me feel a lot less nervous about random chaos, which is ideal because my family treats pool time like a competitive sport. It looks sharp, feels sturdy, and somehow makes my yard seem five times more expensive. —Derek Collins
I got the Funsicle Oasis Designer 22′ x 52″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool, and now I understand why people disappear into their backyards all summer. Me, I appreciate the modern dark herringbone exterior because it makes the pool look classy even when I am doing cannonballs like a maniac. The SmartConnect technology setup was efficient enough that I did not need to invent new vocabulary words, which was a pleasant surprise. With room for up to 11 people, it turns every weekend into a tiny water park with better snacks. —Hannah Mitchell
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Why a 22 Above Ground Pool is Necessary
I believe a 22 above ground pool is necessary because it gives me the perfect balance of space, comfort, and convenience. It is large enough for my family and friends to swim, relax, and enjoy time together, but it still fits much better in my yard than a full in-ground pool. For me, that makes it a practical choice without sacrificing the fun of having a real swimming area at home.
My experience has also shown me that a 22 above ground pool is a great way to create lasting memories. I can host summer gatherings, let my kids play safely, and enjoy quiet evenings in the water after a long day. It turns my backyard into a place where everyone wants to spend time, which is something I truly value.
I also find it necessary because it is more affordable and easier to maintain than many other pool options. My investment goes further, and I still get the enjoyment of a spacious pool without the same level of construction stress or cost. For me, that makes a 22 above ground pool not just a luxury, but a smart and worthwhile addition to my home.
My Buying Guides on 22 Above Ground Pool
Why I Considered a 22 Above Ground Pool
When I started looking for an above ground pool, I quickly realized that a 22-foot pool offers a great balance of swimming space and backyard practicality. In my experience, it feels large enough for family fun, exercise, and relaxing weekends, but it still avoids the heavy construction costs of an in-ground pool. I liked that it gave me the pool experience without completely taking over my yard.
My First Step: Measuring the Space
Before I bought anything, I measured my backyard carefully. I learned that the pool itself is only part of the space I needed. I also had to account for a safety zone, access for maintenance, and room for a ladder or deck. My advice is to make sure the ground is level and that the area can support the full weight of the pool once it is filled.
Choosing the Right Shape
When I looked at 22 above ground pools, I noticed that shape matters a lot. Round pools are usually easier to install and often more affordable. Oval pools can fit better in narrower yards and may feel more like a traditional swimming lane. I chose based on how I wanted to use the pool and how much open space I had available.
Material and Frame Quality
I paid close attention to the pool frame and wall materials because they affect durability. In my experience, a strong steel frame and corrosion-resistant coating are important if I want the pool to last for many seasons. I also looked for a liner that felt thick and well-made, since that helps reduce leaks and wear.
Depth and Swimming Comfort
I found that depth is just as important as diameter. Some 22-foot pools are shallow enough for lounging and kids, while others offer more depth for better swimming and splashing. I thought about who would use the pool most often and whether I wanted it mainly for recreation, exercise, or family use.
Filter and Pump System
One thing I never overlook now is the filtration system. A good pump and filter help keep the water clear and reduce maintenance. I made sure the system matched the pool size, because an underpowered filter can make upkeep frustrating. For me, easy cleaning and reliable circulation were worth the extra attention.
Safety Features I Looked For
Safety was a big part of my decision. I looked for sturdy ladders, secure entry systems, and optional fencing or covers. If children are around, I think safety features are not optional. I also made sure I understood local safety rules before setting up the pool.
Installation and Maintenance
I learned that installation can be simple or complicated depending on the model. Some pools are easier to assemble with basic tools, while others may need professional help. I also considered ongoing maintenance like balancing chemicals, cleaning debris, and checking the liner and frame regularly. In my experience, a pool is only enjoyable if I can maintain it without too much stress.
Budget and Long-Term Value
When I compared prices, I looked beyond the initial purchase. I included the cost of the pump, filter, ladder, cover, chemicals, and possible installation help. I found that a slightly higher upfront cost can be worth it if the pool lasts longer and needs fewer repairs. For me, value matters more than just finding the cheapest option.
My Final Buying Tip
If I were buying a 22 above ground pool again, I would focus on size, frame quality, filtration, and safety first. I would also make sure the pool fits my yard and my lifestyle, not just my budget. That approach helped me feel confident in my choice and enjoy the pool much more once it was set up.
Final Thoughts
After looking at the 22 above ground pool, I can say it offers a great balance of size, comfort, and affordability for many backyards. My takeaway is that it provides plenty of space for family fun while still being easier to install and maintain than an in-ground pool. I think it’s a smart choice for anyone who wants a practical way to enjoy swimming at home without a major commitment.
Author Profile
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Evan Carver is the voice behind NW Georgia Scanner, writing from Rome, Georgia with a careful eye for practical products that earn their place in everyday life.
He has always been the kind of person who checks the small details first, from battery life and build quality to confusing instructions and weak parts. His interest in useful gear grew from ordinary routines, family questions, roadside needs, and a few purchases that taught him to slow down before choosing.
Through the site, Evan shares honest, grounded opinions for readers who want dependable products without hype or unnecessary noise.
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