In the market for an above-ground pool? You’re in the right place.
Whether you’re preparing for the sunshine or you simply want to enjoy summer all year long, you might currently be in the market to purchase your very first above-ground pool.
RANK | IMAGE | PRODUCT NAME | RATING | |
1 | | Bestway Steel Pro Above Ground Pool | ||
2 |
| INTEX Prism Frame Pool With Cartridge Filter Pump | ||
3 |
| Fast Set Above Ground Pool Set | ||
4 |
| Bestway Power Steel Deluxe Above-Ground Pool | ||
5 |
| Aquadoo Family Swimming Above-Ground Pool |
Unlike in-ground pools, above-ground pools are super convenient and easy to install yourself (as long as you have some basic tools).
You can also choose from many different models depending on how much space you have available, what size you need, and whether you’d like something that’s portable or permanent.
In this article, you will find a roundup of the best above-ground pools (see also ‘Closing An Above Ground Pool’) that are currently available on the market.
Besides providing you with an in-depth review of each one, we are also going to be providing you with additional insights along the way to help you purchase the best model for you, your backyard, and your budget.
Read on!
Table of Contents
Best Above-Ground Pools: Which One Should You Buy?
So, now that you know that you would like to buy your very own above-ground pool (see also ‘ Best Above Ground Pool Lights ‘), it’s time to start looking around for the right one for you.
Below, you will find our top picks for the best above-ground pools available today. We hope this helps make the decision easier!
Bestway Steel Pro Above Ground Pool
This is by far the most popular choice among homeowners who are interested in purchasing their very first above-ground swimming pool, and is one of the most reasonably priced options you can find currently on the market.
It comes with everything you’ll need to get started, including a liner, decking (see also ‘Pool Deck Ideas (Partial Decking)‘), and even a cover. It has a sturdy frame made of steel that makes it strong enough to withstand heavy use.
The pool itself is constructed out of fiberglass (see also ‘Fiberglass Pools Cost‘), which means it won’t rust over time. It’s also UV resistant, so it doesn’t require any special care!
All in all, if you’re currently in the market for an above-ground pool that’s going to last you for a great many years without breaking the bank – you’re not going to be disappointed with this fantastic model by Bestway.
It’s got our seal of approval!
Pros
- Strong steel frame
- Easy to assemble
- Great value
Cons
- Some find the instructions to be confusing
INTEX Prism Frame Pool With Cartridge Filter Pump
Are you looking to make an investment in your above-ground pool (see also ‘ Landscaping Around Your Above Ground Pool’ )? If you answered yes to that question, then we think that you might like the Prism Frame Pool by INTEX!
Offering incredible value for money, this above-ground pool comes with everything you need to set up your pool as soon as it arrives at your doorstep.
It features one pool ladder, one ground cloth and even a pool cover which means that you won’t need to go to the trouble of purchasing any additional accessories.
Plus, if that wasn’t impressive enough, this pool from INTEX also comes complete with an awesome Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump!
This means that you will not need to go to the trouble of purchasing a filter afterwards.
Designed to last, this above-ground pool also features an elegant design that will look beautiful in a variety of different backyards, while the quality powder coated steel frames and 3-ply material liner will ensure that you will be able to enjoy this pool for many years to come!
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Easy to install
- Comes with everything needed to get started
Cons
- Costly
Fast Set Above Ground Pool Set
Are you on a budget? No problem. If you’re on the hunt for a high-quality above-ground pool that won’t break the bank, then we think that the Fast Set Above Ground Pool should certainly be on your radar.
Perfect for the summer, the Fast Set Above Ground Pool Set is ideal for families and friends that want to spend some time having fun in the sunshine.
Offering the ultimate convenience, this pool is super simple to assemble and merely requires inflation.
Plus, designed to last you for many uses, the Fast Set Above Ground Pool has been made out of a lightweight yet super-durable PVC material that will not only be able to withstand general wear and tear but also give your pool structure.
Not only that, but this above pool also offers incredible value for money, too!
It features an impressive capacity of up to 220 gallons, and even comes with a filter cartridge that will ensure that the pool is able to maintain its cleanliness with minimum effort on your end.
All in all, a fantastic option for anyone on a budget!
Pros
- Simple to assemble
- Ideal for those who are new to pools
- Great value for money
Cons
- Not as durable as other models
Bestway Power Steel Deluxe Above-Ground Pool
Here’s another fantastic pool model worth checking out! The Bestway Power Steel Deluxe Above-Ground Pool is the perfect option for families or those looking for a larger above-ground pool for summer celebrations.
This product boasts an amazing capacity of up to 300 gallons, meaning that you can easily entertain guests and family members alike without worrying about running out of space.
Plus, this above-ground swimming pool is built using heavy-duty materials that will allow you to enjoy it for many years to come.
What’s more, this pool also includes a powerful pump that will help keep your water clean and clear, while the easy-to-use controls make operating the pool a breeze.
Overall, this is one of our favorite above ground pools available right now!
Pros
- Impressive capacity
- Built from heavy-duty materials
- Includes a powerful pump
Cons
- Pricey
Aquadoo Family Swimming Above-Ground Pool
If you’re not on the search for an overly large above-ground pool, but would instead prefer something smaller for children or pets, then the Aquadoo Family Swimming Above-Ground Pool is a great option to consider purchasing.
Unlike some of the other above-ground models we have included in our roundup already – this option from Aquadoo is great because it offers plenty of conveniences!
Featuring a traditional inflatable design, the Aquadoo Family Above-Ground Swimming Pool provides you with the ability to easily inflate this pool in a matter of moments, and then just as easily deflate it and store it away once you are done with it.
Thanks to this, it means that this above-ground pool from Aquadoo is a great choice for families who have limited backyard space, or even for those families who simply want the option of being able to store away their pool as and when they please.
In addition to this, besides being great for families, it is also worth noting that this pool is also a great option for those who like to throw parties or kickbacks.
Not just that, but made to offer excellent value for your money, the Aquadoo Family Swimming Above-Ground Pool has been made out of highly durable hot carbon hard PVC layered plastic that will be able to easily resist wear and tear from general use.
It also contains PVC layered independent airbags that will be able to utilize Aquadoo’s Hot Melt Technology and resist breakage.
So much so, that the PVC used in this family swimming pool is 50% thicker than other PVC inflatable pools currently on the market. Impressive or what?
This inflatable pool has also been designed to resist leakages and comes equipped with an upgraded anti-leak valve that will be able to prevent any leakages that might be caused by punctures or tears.
This is especially useful if you plan on using this pool often over the course of time.
On top of that, this pool from Aquadoo is also super easy to set up and inflate and comes with three independent air chambers that will allow you to safely and quickly inflate the pool and get it up and running.
Keep in mind, however, that this pool does not come with a manual or electric pump.
As mentioned earlier, this above-ground pool is designed to offer you a variety of different conveniences, which is why we think you might also be pleased to learn that this pool has been designed with your protection in mind, too.
To ensure that you do not hurt your feet while you are swimming in this pool, Aquadoo has equipped this pool with a thick bottom layer that will be able to prevent you from feeling the surface that the pool has been resting on underneath.
This thick layer also offers insulation and will be able to prevent the ground underneath from interfering with the temperature of the water inside the pool (see also ‘ What Is The Perfect Pool Water Temperature ?’).
Pros
- Can be stored away easily
- Features a thick bottom layer
- Comes with an improved anti-leak valve
Cons
- Does not come with a manual/electric pump
Best Above-Ground Pools: Buying Guide
The above-ground pools that we have looked at in this guide are some of the best on the market.
But, if you are still not sold, here is a buyer’s guide to help you make your decision.
What Size Do You Want?
First things first, one of the biggest factors that you are going to need to take into account when selecting an above-ground pool is what size you want it to be!
If you’re looking for a small backyard swimming pool (see also ‘What Is A Plunge Pool? Size, Cost & More‘), then you might find that you only need to purchase a small to medium-sized above-ground pool (which is also most likely going to be pretty affordable).
On the other hand, if you are interested in making an investment in an above-ground pool that can be enjoyed throughout the years, then you’re more than likely going to find that a medium to large-sized above-ground pool is going to be a better match.
Along with taking into account what you want your above-ground for when considering the size that you are going to buy, we also recommend that you take the time to think about the size of your backyard.
How much space do you have to keep your above-ground pool? If you happen to have a pretty large backyard with lots of space in it, then you’re going to have no trouble choosing a larger model above-ground pool.
On the other hand, if you don’t have a lot of room to work within your backyard, then you’re likely going to find that a smaller option is probably going to be a better match.
Do You Want Something That’s Easy to Maintain?
When purchasing an above-ground pool, there are two main types of pools that you will come across: those that require very little maintenance and those that require quite a bit of upkeep.
The type of pool that you choose is going to depend on how often you plan on using it and whether, or not, you would like to spend money on maintaining it.
If you are planning on spending a great deal of time at home during the summer months, then you’re going to find that a pool that requires minimal upkeep is going to be a good fit for you.
The best way to figure out how easy your above-ground pool is going to be to maintain is by reading the customer reviews (this will provide you with an accurate insight into what you can actually expect to experience) as well as taking a look at the general construction and materials that have been used to create the above-ground pool.
Does It Come With Safety Features?
Safety features are always important when it comes to any kind of pool that you are thinking about purchasing.
When you are shopping around for an above-ground pool you are going to want to ensure that you are getting a product that has all the necessary safety features included.
This includes having a fence surrounding the entire perimeter of the pool which helps prevent people from falling into the water, having a ladder that is attached to the side of the pool so that kids can climb up and down safely, and ensuring that the pool is equipped with a pump and filtration system that keeps the water clean and safe for use.
How Much Are You Looking to Spend?
Another factor that you are going to want to take into consideration when selecting an above-ground is how much you are looking to spend on one.
Generally speaking, above-ground pools are usually far more affordable than their in-ground counterparts, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that all of them are going to offer you a good deal for your money.
In fact, there are some above-ground pools on the market that are incredibly expensive and of poor quality, and there are others that are more affordable yet offer more premium quality.
Even though all the pools that we have recommended to you above are of the highest quality at varying price points.
If you are planning on doing some shopping around for yourself, then we strongly recommend that you make sure to refer to the customer reviews to make sure that you are picking a pool that isn’t going to be a waste of your hard-earned money.
Does it Come With A Warranty?
A warranty is another thing that you are going to need to consider when choosing between different above-ground pools.
A lot of times, manufacturers are going to include warranties on their products, but this is not always the case.
For example, many manufacturers are going to include a limited warranty on their products, but they may also limit the amount of time that you are able to use that warranty.
As such, you should always check to see what sort of warranty the manufacturer is offering before making a choice if the length and type of warranty is of particular importance to you.
In addition to this, we strongly recommend that you try to opt for a model that comes with a warranty, as this is a good indication that you are purchasing from a reputable company.
What Are The Benefits Of An Above-Ground Pool?
If you’ve never purchased an above-ground pool before, then it may come as a surprise that there are actually quite a few benefits associated with purchasing an above-ground pool.
Here are just a few of them:
It’s Easy To Install Yourself
If you’ve ever installed any kind of pool before, you know that installing an above-ground pool is pretty simple.
All you really need to do is dig out a hole, pour the concrete, and fill it up with water. That’s about it!
They Are Convenient And Portable
Another benefit of above-ground pools is that they are extremely portable.
This means that if you decide to move somewhere else down the road, you won’t need to worry about having to transport your entire pool.
Instead, all you’ll need to take with you is the pool itself.
They Can Be Used For Multiple Purposes
If you live in a warm climate, an above-ground pool can serve multiple purposes.
Not only can it provide you with a great spot to cool off during hot days, but it can also be used as a swimming area for children and pets.
They Come In A Wide Variety Of Different Designs & Styles
Above-ground pools come in a wide variety of designs and styles, so no matter what type of style you prefer, there’s sure to be a model that fits your needs perfectly.
They Are Safe For Children
Above-ground pools are safe for children because they don’t contain sharp edges.
If you’re worried about your kids getting hurt by falling into the pool, then you should definitely consider purchasing an above-ground model instead.
They Provide Great Entertainment Value
An above-ground pool provides plenty of entertainment value. From parties to barbecues, these types of pools make for fantastic social gatherings.
They Can Be Stored Away At Any Time
You can store your above-ground pool away at any time without worrying about damaging it.
This makes them perfect for those who perhaps live in a colder climate, or even for those who have limited space in their backyard and want to be able to utilize their space depending on the season/time of the year.
Wrapping Up
There we have it! Whether you’re looking to purchase an above-ground pool for yourself or for someone else, we hope that our list has helped you determine which one would work best for your needs!
As you can see from the list above, there are a variety of high-quality above-ground models on the market at varying price points – and we’ve made sure to include a variety of options that will suit everyone’s preference and budget.
The only question is, which above-ground are you going to choose? Thanks for reading.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There Any Kind Of Maintenance Required On An Above-Ground Pool After Installation?
After you have installed and set up your very own above-ground pool, the good news is that there will be very little maintenance required for you to keep the above-ground pool in tip-top condition.
Although, do keep in mind that you will still need to clean the pool regularly.
For the best results and to make sure that your above-ground pool is kept in optimal condition for longer, you should be sure to clean your pool (see also ‘The Best Way To Clean Pool Tile At The Waterline‘) after every use.
If you wanted, you could also use a net that will allow you to scoop out any dirt while you are using it.
In addition to this, you should also make sure that you are regularly cleaning the filter that you are using, as the filter is key to maintaining the quality and cleanliness of the water inside the pool
How Much Does It Cost To Install An Above-Ground Pool?
The best thing about an above-ground pool is that the cost to install one is extremely low if anything at all!
Unlike a pool that gets made into the ground, an above-ground pool can simply be set-up in a matter of moments, and won’t require a costly installation fee.
For this reason, besides being a more affordable alternative to an in-ground pool (see also ‘Average Costs Of Installing An In-Ground Pool‘), above-ground pools are also ideal for those with limited backyard space, or even for those that simply want to be able to pick and choose when they would like to have a pool in their garden throughout the year.
Do I Need A Water Filter For My Pool?
If you plan on having an above-ground pool in your backyard, then you’ll most likely want to purchase a water filter for your pool.
While some people may think that a filter isn’t necessary, it is actually quite important to ensure that your pool stays clear and free from contaminants.
By installing a water filter, you can prevent bacteria and other harmful chemicals from entering your pool.
However, do keep in mind that if you do go ahead and install a water filter in your pool (especially if you are planning on keeping the pool up throughout summer, for example) you will need to make sure that you are regularly cleaning the filter to make sure that it is working correctly.
What Size Should My Pool Be?
When choosing the size of your pool, you’ll want to take into consideration how much area you have available in your backyard, as well as what type of activities you intend to have in your pool.
The bigger the pool, the better the views, but the larger the pool, the more expensive it will be to maintain.
However, if you’re looking for something that’s both large enough to fit all of your friends and family, yet small enough to not take up too much room in your backyard, then an above-ground pool might just be the right choice for you.
What Are Above Ground Pools Good For?
An above-ground pool is great for entertaining guests, getting together with friends, and even relaxing by yourself!
They are usually far more affordable than other types of fixed, stationery pools, and provide you with the ability to pack it away in storage whenever you like.
Plus, with an above-ground pool, you don’t have to worry about the cold weather affecting the temperature of your pool, as there are even some models that are heated so that you can enjoy them throughout the entire year.
They’re super versatile, affordable and ideal for a range of different gatherings and events.
