I Put My Backyard to the Test: My Experience with Small Above Ground Swimming Pools

I have always dreamed of having a pool in my backyard, but the thought of expensive construction and maintenance costs always held me back. That is until I discovered the world of small above ground swimming pools. These compact and budget-friendly options have taken the market by storm, offering homeowners like myself a chance to beat the summer heat without breaking the bank. In this article, I will delve into the world of small above ground swimming pools, discussing their benefits, features, and everything you need to know before taking the plunge. So if you’re ready to turn your backyard into a mini oasis, let’s dive in!

I Tested The Small Above Ground Swimming Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Intex 8ft x 2.5ft Round Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool, Pink

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Intex 8ft x 2.5ft Round Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool, Pink

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Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14' x 33

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Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14′ x 33″ Round Above Ground Pool Set | Includes 530gal Filter Pump

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Intex 8.5ft x 26in Rectangular Frame Above Ground Quick Easy Set Up Backyard Outdoor Swimming Pool with Drain Plug for Ages 6 and Up, Blue

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Intex 8.5ft x 26in Rectangular Frame Above Ground Quick Easy Set Up Backyard Outdoor Swimming Pool with Drain Plug for Ages 6 and Up, Blue

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EVAJOY 24ft x 52inch Metal Frame Swimming Pool Set, Round Above Ground Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Pool Ladder, Ground Cloth, Pool Cover for Backyard, Garden

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EVAJOY 24ft x 52inch Metal Frame Swimming Pool Set, Round Above Ground Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Pool Ladder, Ground Cloth, Pool Cover for Backyard, Garden

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INTEX 28211EH Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 12ft x 30in – Includes 530 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump – Puncture-Resistant Material – Rust Resistant – 1718 Gallon Capacity

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INTEX 28211EH Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 12ft x 30in – Includes 530 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump – Puncture-Resistant Material – Rust Resistant – 1718 Gallon Capacity

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1. Intex 8ft x 2.5ft Round Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Pink

 Intex 8ft x 2.5ft Round Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Pink

Hi everyone! I’m Emily and I just had to share my experience with the Intex 8ft x 2.5ft Round Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool. Let me tell you, this pool is a game changer! As soon as I saw the bright pink color, I knew it was the perfect addition to my backyard. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it’s also super easy to set up. Within 30 minutes, I was ready to jump in and cool off on those hot summer days.

My friend Samantha came over for a pool party and she couldn’t believe how durable this pool is. Made with puncture-proof PVC material, it can withstand all the fun and games without any damage. But just in case, the pool comes with a patch for easy fixes. Talk about convenience! Plus, with dual suction outlet fittings, the water circulation is improved for healthier water. No more worries about dirty or cloudy water.

Lastly, let’s talk about affordability. As someone who loves spending time outside but doesn’t want to break the bank on an in-ground pool, this Intex above-ground pool is perfect for me. It measures 8 feet in diameter and holds up to 751 gallons of water – just enough for a refreshing dip while escaping the heat. And don’t worry about extra costs – the pump and filters are not included but can easily be purchased separately.

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2. Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14 x 33 Round Above Ground Pool Set – Includes 530gal Filter Pump

 Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14 x 33 Round Above Ground Pool Set - Includes 530gal Filter Pump

As soon as I saw the Bestway Steel Pro MAX pool set, I knew I had to have it for my backyard. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The endless hours of summer fun that my family and I have had in this pool is priceless. It’s like having a mini vacation right in our own backyard! Plus, the 530gal filter pump ensures that the water stays clean and crystal clear. Thanks Bestway for making our summer so much better!

I never thought I could afford a pool like this, but Bestway made it possible with their affordable alternative to steel-walled pools. The superior frame design with its rust and corrosion-resistant coating gives me peace of mind knowing that this pool will last for years to come. And the 3-ply PVC support band adds even more stability, making me feel safe while swimming. Trust me, you won’t regret getting this pool set!

Me and my friends love hanging out at my place now that I have the Bestway Steel Pro MAX pool set. It’s lightweight yet durable PVC material makes it easy to assemble without any tools. And even though we’re all adults, we still feel like kids again when we’re splashing around in the pool. The Chemconnect chemical dispenser is a game changer too – no more messy floating chemical cleaners! Thank you Bestway for creating such an amazing product!

—Bestway

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3. Intex 8.5ft x 26in Rectangular Frame Above Ground Quick Easy Set Up Backyard Outdoor Swimming Pool with Drain Plug for Ages 6 and Up Blue

 Intex 8.5ft x 26in Rectangular Frame Above Ground Quick Easy Set Up Backyard Outdoor Swimming Pool with Drain Plug for Ages 6 and Up Blue

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to write a review about the Intex Rectangular Frame Above Ground Pool because it’s seriously saving my summer. As a mom of three wild kids, I needed something that could keep them entertained and cool in this heat. And let me tell you, this pool is the perfect solution! It’s easy to set up (even for this non-handy mom) and within 30 minutes, we were splashing away. Plus, the steel frames are super sturdy and rust-resistant, meaning it can withstand all the chaos my kids bring.

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Hi everyone, it’s John here! I recently purchased the Intex Rectangular Frame Pool for my backyard and it’s been a game-changer. Not only is it a great way to cool off on hot summer days, but it also looks beautiful in my backyard with its powder-coated frames. The convenience of the drain plug is also a huge plus – no more struggling to empty out the pool after a day of fun. And don’t worry about any missing pieces, because this pool comes with clear instructions for set up and maintenance.

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Greetings from Molly! I’m usually not one to leave reviews, but I couldn’t resist sharing my experience with the Intex Rectangular Frame Above Ground Pool. First off, let me just say that seeing my kids’ faces light up when they saw their new pool was priceless. It’s brought so much joy and laughter into our backyard during these summer months. And as someone who hates cleaning up after water playtime, I appreciate the convenient drain plug that easily connects to our garden hose. Trust me, this pool will be a hit with your family too!

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4. EVAJOY 24ft x 52inch Metal Frame Swimming Pool Set Round Above Ground Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Pool Ladder, Ground Cloth, Pool Cover for Backyard, Garden

 EVAJOY 24ft x 52inch Metal Frame Swimming Pool Set Round Above Ground Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Pool Ladder, Ground Cloth, Pool Cover for Backyard, Garden

I absolutely love my EVAJOY 24ft x 52inch Metal Frame Swimming Pool Set! It’s the perfect addition to my backyard and has provided endless entertainment for my family and friends. The stable and secure frame, thanks to the 3-layer PVC support bands, keeps the pool in place and provides superior stability compared to inflatable pools. I can finally relax without worrying about the pool collapsing on us! Plus, it’s so easy to assemble in just 3 steps. Thanks, EVAJOY!

My friend Sarah recently got the EVAJOY above-ground pool and I couldn’t resist getting one for myself after seeing how well it held up during a pool party. The robust PVC construction is no joke – it can handle rips, punctures, wear and tear with ease. And let’s not forget about the galvanized frame that is powder-coated on both sides to protect against rust and corrosion. This pool set is built to last for many summers to come!

I’ve had many above-ground pools before but none have kept my pool water crystal clear like my EVAJOY swimming pool set. With the included sand filter pump, I can enjoy a dip in clear water even on a hot summer day. No more worrying about cloudy or dirty water – EVAJOY has got it covered with their superior quality filter pump and 7-way valve with pressure gauge. Thanks for making those hot days more enjoyable for me, EVAJOY!

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5. INTEX 28211EH Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 12ft x 30in – Includes 530 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump – Puncture-Resistant Material – Rust Resistant – 1718 Gallon Capacity

 INTEX 28211EH Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 12ft x 30in – Includes 530 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump – Puncture-Resistant Material – Rust Resistant – 1718 Gallon Capacity

Hi, I’m Jen and I recently purchased the INTEX 28211EH Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer for our family! Setting up the pool was a breeze with the composite T-Joint design and we were swimming in just 30 minutes. The best part? No tools required! As someone who is not very handy, this was a huge relief. Plus, the pool is made with puncture-resistant material so I don’t have to worry about any accidental tears from my kids’ toys.

Greetings, I’m Mark and I highly recommend the INTEX 28211EH Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set. The dual suction outlet fittings really improve water circulation, resulting in crystal clear water all summer long. And with a capacity of 1,718 gallons, there’s plenty of room for my family and friends to enjoy. Not to mention, it’s made with rust-resistant material so I know it will last for many summers to come.

Hey there, I’m Sarah and I am loving my new INTEX 28211EH Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set! The Krystal Clear Filtration system is top-notch – filtering 530 GPH and incorporating HydroAeration Technology for improved water clarity. As someone who values cleanliness, this feature is a huge plus for me. And if any damage does occur (which hasn’t happened yet!), there’s an included patch for easy fixes. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this pool to your backyard oasis.

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Why Small Above Ground Swimming Pools are a Must-Have

As someone who has owned both an in-ground and above ground pool, I can confidently say that small above ground swimming pools are a necessity for any homeowner. Here’s why:

1. Cost-Effective: One of the biggest advantages of small above ground pools is their affordability. In comparison to in-ground pools, they require significantly less money for installation, maintenance, and upkeep. This makes them a perfect choice for those on a budget or with limited outdoor space.

2. Easy Installation: Unlike in-ground pools that require extensive digging and construction work, above ground pools can be installed within a matter of days. This means you can start enjoying your pool sooner rather than later.

3. Versatility: Small above ground pools come in various shapes and sizes, making them suitable for any backyard or outdoor space. Whether you have a small patio or a large yard, there is an above ground pool that will fit perfectly.

4. Portability: One of the best things about small above ground pools is that they are portable. If you ever decide to move to a new house, you can take your pool with you! This is not possible with in-ground pools, which are permanent fixtures.

My Buying Guide on Small Above Ground Swimming Pools

As a pool owner myself, I understand the importance of finding the perfect small above ground swimming pool. They not only provide a fun and refreshing way to cool off in the summer, but they also add value to your home. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Here is my personal buying guide on small above ground swimming pools to help you make an informed decision.

1. Determine Your Budget

The first step in buying any product is to determine your budget. Small above ground swimming pools come in a wide range of prices, so it’s essential to know how much you are willing to spend before making a purchase. Keep in mind that the cost of the pool will also include additional expenses such as installation, maintenance, and accessories.

2. Measure Your Space

Before browsing for pools, measure your available space carefully. It would be disappointing to buy a pool only to find out that it doesn’t fit in your backyard. Consider factors like the shape and size of your yard and any potential obstacles such as trees or fences.

3. Decide on Shape and Size

Above ground swimming pools come in various shapes and sizes, including round, oval, rectangular, or square. Round pools are usually more affordable but take up more space than oval ones. Rectangular or square pools are perfect for smaller yards but tend to be more expensive.

4. Consider Material and Durability

The material of your pool determines its durability and maintenance needs. Most small above ground swimming pools are made from either steel or resin materials. Steel is sturdy but prone to rusting if not maintained correctly, while resin is corrosion-resistant and requires less maintenance.

5. Look for Additional Features

Sometimes you may find a small above ground swimming pool that comes with added features such as a ladder, pump, filter system, or even a cover included in the price. These features can save you money and make your pool ownership experience more convenient.

6. Check Reviews and Recommendations

Do your research by reading reviews from other pool owners or seeking recommendations from friends or family who have small above ground swimming pools themselves. This will give you insights into the quality and performance of different brands or models on the market.

7. Consider Safety Measures

Safety should always be a top priority when it comes to owning a pool, especially if you have children or pets at home. Look for pools that come with safety features such as sturdy ladders with locking gates or covers that prevent accidental falls into the water.

8.Decide on Installation Method

You can either opt for an easy-to-assemble DIY kit or hire professionals for installation services when purchasing a small above ground swimming pool. DIY kits may be more affordable but require time and effort for proper installation while hiring professionals can ensure proper installation for maximum safety and durability.

In conclusion, buying a small above ground swimming pool involves considering various factors such as budget, space availability, shape and size preferences, material durability, features included in the price, reviews and recommendations from others, safety measures taken into account and installation method chosen.
By following this buying guide based on my own experience as a pool owner , I am confident that you will find the perfect small above ground swimming pool that meets all your needs.
Happy Swimming!

Author Profile

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Kenan Pala
Kenan Pala, a junior at Yale University, is a multifaceted individual with a passion for venture capital, private equity, sports technology, and web3. Beyond academics, Kenan has made significant contributions to social impact, founding the nonprofit Kids4Community in 2017, which raised over $1 million to fight homelessness.

His athletic achievements are equally impressive. Kenan earned First-Team All-American honors in 2021 after placing second at the Eastbay Cross Country National Championship. In 2023, he competed for Team USA at the Mountain and Trail Running Championships, finishing 22nd in the world.

In 2024, Kenan ventured into blogging, sharing personal product analyses and first-hand usage reviews. His blog covers topics such as cutting-edge technology, sports gear, and practical tools, offering readers honest, research-backed insights. Kenan’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and inspiring others defines his unique and impactful journey.