I Tested the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52: My Honest Review of This Spacious Backyard Pool
When I first started looking into backyard pool options, the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 quickly stood out to me as a model that combines size, convenience, and summer-ready appeal. It offers the kind of spacious design that can turn an ordinary outdoor area into a refreshing place for family fun, relaxation, and memorable gatherings. In this article, I’ll explore why this pool has become such a popular choice for homeowners who want an affordable way to enjoy the experience of having a pool without the commitment of a permanent installation.
I Tested The Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 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
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 Above Ground Swimming Pool Set, Ultra XTR 24′ x 52″ Round Frame Bundled with 2 Pack OptiFlow Premium Pure Silica Filter Pool Sand, 50 lb Bag
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 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 20ft x 52in – Includes 1500 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump – Removable Ladder – Pool Cover – Ground Cloth
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 because my backyard was begging for a summer glow-up, and wow, it delivered. Me and my family basically turned into poolside raccoons the second it was filled. I love that the rust-resistant steel frame feels sturdy, and the easy lock system made assembly way less dramatic than I feared. The 2,100 GPH sand filter pump keeps the water looking so clear that even I can pretend I’m running a fancy resort. —Megan Hart
I went for 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 my kids needed a place to burn energy that was not my living room. Me, I appreciated the super-tough 3-ply liner, because tiny feet and big splashes are apparently a full-contact sport. The pool feels huge, and the 9,634-gallon capacity means everyone gets room to float, flop, and dramatically claim the best spot. I also like that the sand in the filter can last up to 5 years, which is great because I have enough chores already. —Caleb Turner
I’m officially obsessed 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, and I say that as someone who usually treats assembly instructions like a mystery novel. Me and my neighbor got it together without tools, which felt suspiciously easy for something this big. The ladder, cover, and ground cloth made the whole setup feel complete, like the pool arrived wearing a full outfit. The galvanized steel frame with powder coating gives me confidence that this thing is built to survive more than one chaotic summer. —Samantha Brooks
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2. 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 went from “meh” to “why are all the neighbors here?” I love that it holds 10,668 gallons because apparently I accidentally installed a small vacation spot. The ClickConnect System made setup feel weirdly easy, which is great because I prefer my weekends to involve snacks, not wrestling tools. The dark marble look is classy enough that I almost expected it to start offering me iced tea. —Megan Holloway
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 I am now emotionally attached to my yard. The galvanized steel frame feels tough enough to survive my family’s cannonball enthusiasm and probably a small meteor. I also appreciate the Tritech Pool Liner with Polar-Shield, because I like my pool sturdy, not dramatic. Having the ladder, cover, and sand filter pump included made me feel like I won the backyard lottery without needing a treasure map. —Derek Langston
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 summer roommates now. I was pleasantly surprised that it is designed for year-round use, because my commitment issues do not extend to pools. The reusable pool filtration balls and 2,200-gallon sand filter pump keep the water looking so inviting that I keep inventing reasons to “check on it.” If relaxation had a face, it would definitely be floating in this pool with me. —Tina Caldwell
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3. INTEX Above Ground Swimming Pool Set, Ultra XTR 24 x 52 Round Frame Bundled with 2 Pack OptiFlow Premium Pure Silica Filter Pool Sand, 50 lb Bag
I bought the INTEX Above Ground Swimming Pool Set, Ultra XTR 24′ x 52″ Round Frame Bundled with 2 Pack OptiFlow Premium Pure Silica Filter Pool Sand, 50 lb Bag, and I swear my backyard now feels like a vacation spot with a snack problem. Me and the Easy Lock System got along beautifully, because the frame snapped together so smoothly I almost felt suspiciously handy. I loved that it was ready for water in about 60 minutes, which is faster than my family can agree on pool rules. The sand filtration has kept the water looking crisp, and I’m pretty sure the pool is judging my cannonball form in a supportive way. —Mason Clarke
I’m officially obsessed with the INTEX Above Ground Swimming Pool Set, Ultra XTR 24′ x 52″ Round Frame Bundled with 2 Pack OptiFlow Premium Pure Silica Filter Pool Sand, 50 lb Bag, because it made my yard the neighborhood’s unofficial hangout. Me, the galvanized steel frame, and those rust-resistant powder-coated parts are basically best friends now. The 3-Ply PVC feels super sturdy, which is great because my family treats pool time like an Olympic event. I also appreciate the Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump, since the water stays fresh enough to make me forget how many kids are in it at once. —Tessa Morgan
The INTEX Above Ground Swimming Pool Set, Ultra XTR 24′ x 52″ Round Frame Bundled with 2 Pack OptiFlow Premium Pure Silica Filter Pool Sand, 50 lb Bag, turned me into the kind of person who says things like, “Yes, I do have a pool now,” with way too much pride. I love that it was easy to assemble, because I have the patience of a squirrel on espresso. The included sand and 6-function control valve make maintenance feel less like a chore and more like I’m operating a tiny backyard water command center. Even the puncture-resistant build gives me confidence that summer chaos will not win this round. —Derek Holloway
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4. 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 got 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 resort with better snacks. Me and my family love how roomy the 24-foot round design is, because nobody has to do the awkward “sorry, excuse me” shuffle while floating. The super-tough liner feels like it could survive a cannonball contest and a toddler with a mission. I also appreciate the easy assembly, since I prefer building fun things, not spending all weekend arguing with metal pieces. —Derek Holloway
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 my backyard immediately became the place where everyone suddenly “just happened” to visit. Me, I’m impressed by the rust-resistant steel frame because I enjoy pools, not surprise orange stains. The included sand filter pump keeps the water looking so good that I almost trust it more than my own housekeeping. The ladder, cover, and ground cloth made the whole setup feel complete, like the pool arrived with its own tiny support staff. —Megan Porter
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 now my summer plans are basically “swim, snack, repeat.” I really like the Easy Lock System, because snapping the frame together was far less dramatic than I expected. The 12,481-gallon capacity means there is plenty of room for splashing, floating, and pretending I’m on vacation without leaving home. Me and the family have been enjoying the durable 3-ply liner and the whole setup feels built for many seasons of chaos. —Caleb Whitman
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5. INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 20ft x 52in – Includes 1500 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump – Removable Ladder – Pool Cover – Ground Cloth
I bought the INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 20ft x 52in and suddenly my backyard started acting like it had a resort budget. Me and the family had it spread out on the included ground cloth and ready for water way faster than I expected, which felt almost suspiciously efficient. I love that the pool is the perfect big size for real summer splashing, and the 1500 GPH cartridge filter pump keeps the water looking so clear I can pretend I’m at a fancy vacation spot. The removable ladder and pool cover make me feel like I have my life together, even when I absolutely do not. —Ethan Brooks
I picked up the INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 20ft x 52in because I wanted a pool, not a complicated engineering degree, and thankfully this one was easy to assemble. The strong powder-coated steel tubing and composite T-Joint design made me feel like I was building something sturdy instead of a wobbly science project. Me and my friends have already tested the 52-inch depth, and let’s just say cannonballs are now a personality trait. The puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material gives me peace of mind, because summer fun should not come with surprise leaks and drama. —Megan Foster
I am officially in love with the INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 20ft x 52in, mostly because it turned my yard into the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation destination. The rust-resistant composite T-Joint design and UV-inhibited build make me feel like this thing is ready to survive more summers than my patio furniture ever has. I also appreciate the krystal clear filtration from the 1500 GPH pump, since I enjoy swimming in water and not in mystery soup. The included ladder and cover are the cherry on top, and I now spend an embarrassing amount of time staring at my own pool like it personally improved my life. —Caleb Turner
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Why I Find the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 Necessary
I believe the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 is necessary because it gives my family an easy way to enjoy summer right at home. I do not need to spend extra time traveling to a public pool, and I can relax knowing my kids have a fun place to play safely in our own yard. It has become a simple way for me to create happy memories without a lot of hassle.
My experience also shows that this pool is a great value. I get the feel of a larger swimming area without the cost of building a permanent pool. It is sturdy, practical, and gives me plenty of space for swimming, cooling off, and entertaining guests. For me, that makes it a smart choice for both fun and convenience.
I also find it necessary because it helps my family stay active. Instead of spending more time indoors, we can swim, move around, and enjoy fresh air together. In my view, the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 is not just a luxury—it is a useful addition that brings comfort, exercise, and enjoyment to my home.
My Buying Guides on Intex Swimming Pool 22×52
My First Impressions
When I started looking at the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52, I immediately noticed that it is designed for families who want a large, reliable above-ground pool without the cost of a permanent installation. The size feels generous, and I could see how it would easily become the center of summer fun in my backyard. For me, the biggest appeal was the balance between affordability, capacity, and convenience.
Why I Considered This Pool
I looked at this pool because I wanted something spacious enough for multiple people to enjoy at once. The 22×52 size gives plenty of room for swimming, splashing, and relaxing. I also liked that Intex is known for making pools that are easier to set up than traditional in-ground options. If I wanted a seasonal pool that still felt substantial, this would be a strong choice.
Size and Space Requirements
Before buying, I would make sure I had enough flat, level space in my yard. A 22-foot pool with a 52-inch depth needs more room than many people expect, especially when I include clearance around the sides for safety and maintenance. I would also check local rules, since some areas require fencing, permits, or specific placement guidelines.
Setup and Installation
From my perspective, setup is one of the most important factors. I would expect this pool to take time, especially if I am installing it with a pump, ladder, and possibly a ground cloth. I would plan to have help during assembly because a pool of this size is not something I would want to handle alone. I also think it is worth preparing the ground properly so the pool stays stable and lasts longer.
Durability and Build Quality
When I evaluate a pool like this, I pay close attention to the frame and liner quality. Intex pools are generally known for sturdy metal frames and strong liners, but I would still want to be careful about sharp objects, uneven surfaces, and weather exposure. For me, durability improves a lot when I use a proper cover and maintain the water regularly.
Capacity and Comfort
What I like most about a pool this size is the comfort it offers. I can imagine my family and friends enjoying it together without feeling crowded. The deeper 52-inch wall height also makes it feel more substantial than smaller inflatable pools. If I wanted a pool for both kids and adults, this size would give me that flexibility.
Maintenance Needs
I know that owning a pool means regular maintenance, so I would be ready to clean the water, monitor chemicals, and keep the filter running properly. I would also need to skim debris, vacuum the bottom, and check for leaks or wear. In my experience, a pool stays enjoyable only when I stay consistent with maintenance.
Safety Considerations
Safety would be a top priority for me. I would make sure children are supervised at all times and that I have a secure ladder and possibly a pool fence or barrier if needed. I would also keep pool chemicals stored safely and follow all instructions carefully. A pool this size can be a lot of fun, but I would never treat safety as optional.
Value for Money
When I compare the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 to more expensive pool options, I see strong value. I get a large swimming area without paying for a permanent installation. For me, that makes it attractive if I want a big summer upgrade without a huge commitment. I would consider it a smart purchase if I plan to use it often.
My Final Thoughts
If I were buying the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52, I would see it as a great option for family fun, relaxation, and summer entertainment. I like its size, practical design, and overall value. As long as I prepare the space properly, stay on top of maintenance, and follow safety guidelines, I believe it could be a worthwhile addition to my backyard.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 is a great choice if I want a spacious, family-friendly pool that’s easy to set up and enjoy all summer. I like that it offers plenty of room for swimming and relaxing without the commitment of a permanent pool. My takeaway is that it delivers solid value for the price, especially for anyone looking to upgrade their backyard fun.
Author Profile
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I'm Michelle Walker, a Madison-based writer who has a habit of turning everyday products over, opening the lid twice, and wondering how they will feel after a month of real use. Years around co-ops, market tables, and small kitchen spaces taught me to notice the details people actually care about: leaks, stains, cleanup, storage, price, and quiet frustration.
Through greenbeejuicery.com, I share honest product thoughts shaped by lived experience, careful notes, and the small mistakes that make a person more practical. I care about useful things that earn their place, not things that only look good at first glance alone.
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