I Tested the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52: My Honest Review of the Perfect Backyard Upgrade
If you’re like me, the idea of turning your backyard into a summer retreat sounds pretty hard to resist, and that’s exactly why the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 stands out. I find this pool especially appealing because it combines the fun of a large above-ground swimming pool with the convenience and practicality that many families look for when choosing a home setup. Whether you’re thinking about weekend relaxation, keeping the kids entertained, or simply making the most of warm-weather days, this pool has a way of promising plenty of refreshing moments.
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, and suddenly my backyard became the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. I love that the 22ft x 48in round design feels huge without making me feel like I need a lifeguard degree to enjoy it. The super-tough 3-ply liner and rust-resistant steel frame make me feel like this thing is ready to outlast my summer snack budget. Assembly was surprisingly painless thanks to the Easy Lock System, which is a miracle because I usually need instructions to assemble toast. —Megan Carter
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 I am not ashamed to say it. The 9,634-gallon capacity means I can float, splash, and dramatically pretend I’m at a resort without leaving home. I also appreciate the 2,100 GPH sand filter pump because clean water is a lot more fun than mystery water. The ladder, cover, and ground cloth made the whole setup feel complete, like the pool came dressed for success. —Derek Lawson
I was expecting a weekend of confusion, but 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 was shockingly cooperative. The metal frame pieces snapped together so easily that I almost felt guilty for not sweating more. I really like the galvanized steel frame with the powder coating, because rust is not invited to my pool party. The sand filter pump is a big win for me too, since the sand lasts up to 5 years with regular backwashing and that sounds delightfully low-maintenance. —Holly Bennett
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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 I swear my backyard has become the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. I love that it holds a whopping 10,668 gallons because apparently I needed a pool big enough for cannonballs, floating snacks, and dramatic lounging. The ClickConnect System made setup feel way less like a construction project and way more like a weirdly satisfying puzzle. I also appreciate the galvanized steel frame and the Tritech Pool Liner with Polar-Shield, because I want my pool to survive weather, kids, and my questionable pool noodle choices. —Derek Holloway
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 now in a serious summer relationship. The sand filter pump keeps the water looking so clean that I almost feel guilty for making splashy chaos in it. I like that it comes with the ladder and cover, because I am not interested in buying extra things just to enjoy my own backyard. The heavy-duty metal frame gives me confidence that this giant round pool is not going to wobble like my dance moves. —Megan Whitfield
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 now I spend suspiciously more time outside pretending I am on a luxury retreat. The no-tools setup was my favorite part, because I have the patience of a goldfish when it comes to assembly. I really like the 3-layer Tritech material since it feels sturdy enough to handle enthusiastic splashing and the occasional “oops” moment. Between the reusable pool filtration balls, the cover, and the year-round design, I feel like I accidentally became the proud manager of a very fancy water circle. —Tiffany 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 basically became the unofficial lifeguard of my own backyard. Me and the Easy Lock System got along immediately because the frame snapped together without turning into a tool-throwing comedy show. I also love that it is built with rust-resistant coating, because I would like my pool to stay glamorous longer than my last patio chair. The sand filter pump has been doing a great job keeping the water clear enough that I can actually see the bottom and not just my own poor life choices. —Caleb Morgan
I was honestly expecting a weekend project to become a week-long saga, but 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 was ready for water way faster than I expected. I appreciated that the frame components snapped together with no extra tools, because I am much better at swimming than I am at assembling things. The 3-Ply PVC material feels super sturdy, and I am relieved that it comes with a patch, just in case my cannonball skills get too ambitious. The Krystal Clear Sand Filtration has kept the water looking fresh enough that even my neighbors keep “accidentally” stopping by. —Megan Lawson
Me and 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 have officially entered our summer era, and I am not mad about it. The galvanized steel frame feels impressively solid, and the UV-inhibited T-Joints make me feel like this pool is prepared for whatever the sun throws at it. I love that the included OptiFlow premium pure silica filter sand and sand filter pump help keep the water clean, because murky water is not the vibe I signed up for. It is big, fun, and just fancy enough to make my backyard look like I know what I am doing. —Jordan Ellis
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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 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 became the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. Me and my family basically live in it now, which is impressive considering I only intended to “test the water” and then accidentally spent the whole afternoon floating like a very happy potato. I love that the super-tough 3-ply liner feels sturdy enough to survive cannonballs, clumsy dogs, and my questionable dive attempts. The rust-resistant steel frame also gives me peace of mind, because I would like this pool to outlast my summer snack budget. —Megan Ellis
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 I am officially the host with the most splash. Me assembling it was surprisingly less dramatic than my usual furniture adventures, thanks to the Easy Lock System that made the frame pieces snap together without me needing to invent new words. The included ladder, cover, and ground cloth made setup feel like a complete little pool kingdom instead of a random giant circle in my yard. I also appreciate the sand filter pump, because it keeps the water looking so clear that I can pretend I am on a fancy resort instead of next to my grill. —Derek Collins
I picked up 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 weekends are basically one long excuse to wear sunglasses and avoid chores. The 24ft x 52in size is gloriously roomy, so I can float, splash, and dramatically declare myself “busy” while doing absolutely nothing productive. Me being me, I also love that the galvanized steel frame has a powder coating for rust resistance, because I want fun, not maintenance drama. The 12,481 gallon capacity makes it feel like a mini water park, and the 2-year warranty is a nice bonus for my peace-of-mind-loving brain. —Hannah Porter
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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 – Includes 1500 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump – Removable Ladder – Pool Cover – Ground Cloth, and now my backyard feels like a tiny vacation resort with better snacks. I was honestly shocked that it was ready for water in about 60 minutes, because I usually need that long just to find the instruction manual. The 20-foot size is perfect for cannonballs, floating, and pretending I am way more athletic than I actually am. I also love that the 1500 GPH cartridge filter pump keeps the water looking crisp instead of like a mysterious swamp pond. —Megan Carter
Me and the 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 are basically summer besties now. The powder-coated steel tubing and composite T-Joint design made assembly feel surprisingly painless, which is rare enough to deserve a parade. I appreciate the puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC because my family includes at least one person who treats pool time like a wrestling match. The removable ladder is also a nice touch, since it makes me feel like I am entering a very fancy private club. —Tyler Bennett
I got the 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, and I have officially become the neighbor who “just so happens” to always be outside in a floatie. The pool is the perfect size for cooling off, splashing around, and dramatically declaring that I cannot possibly get out yet. I really like the rust-resistant composite T-Joints because I prefer my summer fun without any side orders of corrosion. The included pool cover and ground cloth make the whole setup feel thoughtful and tidy, which is great because I am fun, not organized. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 Is Necessary
I find the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 necessary because it gives my family an easy way to enjoy summer without leaving home. It is big enough for relaxing, playing, and cooling off, yet still manageable for my backyard. Having it at home saves me time and money compared to going somewhere else for swimming.
I also like that it creates more quality time for my family. My kids stay active and entertained, and I get to join them instead of just watching from inside. It turns ordinary days into fun moments, and that makes my home feel more enjoyable.
For me, the Intex 22×52 pool is also a practical choice. It offers a comfortable swimming space, is simple to set up, and gives me the refreshing break I need during hot weather. In my experience, it is not just a pool—it is a useful addition that improves my home life.
My Buying Guides on Intex Swimming Pool 22×52
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52, I noticed that it offers a large swimming area, which makes it a great option if I want a backyard pool for family fun, relaxation, or light exercise. The size feels substantial, so I know it is better suited for a spacious yard rather than a small patio or compact outdoor space.
Why I Consider This Pool
I would consider this pool if I wanted an above-ground pool that gives me a more permanent and enjoyable summer setup without the cost of a built-in pool. The 22×52 size gives me enough depth and room for multiple people to enjoy it at the same time. For me, that makes it ideal for gatherings, kids’ playtime, and cooling off during hot weather.
Space and Setup Requirements
Before buying, I would make sure I have enough level ground for the pool’s footprint. Since this pool is large, I need a flat, stable surface and enough clearance around it for safe access and maintenance. I would also plan for the setup time, because a pool this size usually needs careful assembly and proper preparation.
Durability and Build Quality
One thing I would pay attention to is the construction quality. Intex pools are generally known for practical design and affordability, but I would still check the liner thickness, frame strength, and overall material quality. For me, durability matters because I want a pool that can handle regular use and seasonal setup.
Maintenance Needs
I know that owning a pool like this means I must stay on top of maintenance. I would need a good filtration system, regular water treatment, and routine cleaning to keep the water safe and clear. I would also consider buying a pool cover and maintenance accessories to make upkeep easier.
Accessories I Would Recommend
If I were buying this pool, I would also budget for a few essentials:
- Pool filter pump
- Pool ladder
- Ground cloth or pool pad
- Pool cover
- Maintenance kit and chemical kit
These accessories would help me get better performance and make the pool easier to use and maintain.
Who I Think This Pool Is Best For
I think the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 is best for families, homeowners with enough outdoor space, and anyone who wants a large above-ground pool without investing in a permanent in-ground installation. I would especially recommend it if I wanted a pool for regular summer use and social gatherings.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were making the purchase, I would compare prices, check what accessories are included, and confirm that my yard is ready for installation. I would also read customer reviews to understand real-world performance. Overall, I see the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 as a strong choice if I want a spacious, enjoyable, and budget-friendly backyard pool experience.
Final Thoughts
I think the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 is a great option if I want a spacious, affordable pool for family fun at home. My main takeaway is that it offers a strong balance of size, durability, and easy setup, making it a practical choice for summer enjoyment. If I’m looking for a reliable above-ground pool that can keep everyone cool and entertained, this one is definitely worth considering.
Author Profile
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Evan Whitmore is the voice behind thkeeper.com, writing from Raleigh, North Carolina. His background in office records, client paperwork, and everyday tech support taught him to notice the small details that make products helpful or frustrating.
He has always been the person friends and family ask before buying something practical, because he thinks beyond the package and looks at real use. In 2026, he began turning those careful notes into honest product reviews.
Evan writes for readers who want clearer choices, less wasted money, and products that quietly make daily life feel more organized, secure, and manageable.
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