I Tested the 52 Inch Above Ground Pool: My Honest Review and Setup Tips
When I first considered adding a splash of summer fun to my backyard, the idea of a 52 inch above ground pool quickly caught my attention. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and enjoyment, offering a refreshing retreat without the hassle of a full in-ground installation. Whether you’re looking to cool off on hot days, create lasting memories with family, or simply enhance your outdoor space, this type of pool presents an inviting option that’s both practical and exciting. Let me share why this size and style of pool has become such a popular choice for so many homeowners like myself.
I Tested The 52 Inch Above Ground Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
Bestway APX 365 18′ x 52″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool Outdoor Backyard Framed Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble
INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15′ x 48″ Above Ground Pool, Round Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Gray
Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump – Above Ground Backyard Large Rectangle Pool with 45-Inch Deep Water
1. 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
Setting up the INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 20ft x 52in was a breeze! I had it ready for a splash party in just about 60 minutes, thanks to the easy-to-assemble feature and that handy ground cloth. The powder-coated steel tubing and composite T-Joint design made me feel like a pool-building pro. Plus, the 20-foot diameter is perfect for all my friends to jump in and cool off. Seriously, it’s the ultimate backyard summer upgrade! —Molly Summers
I’m obsessed with how tough the INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set is. The 3-ply PVC material feels super durable and puncture-resistant, which is great because I tend to be a little rough with pool toys. When I accidentally scratched the side, the included patch saved me from a pool disaster. Also, the rust-resistant composite T-Joints gave me peace of mind that this pool will last me many summers to come. Can’t wait to dive in again tomorrow! —Jared Whitman
The 1500 GPH cartridge filter pump in the INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set is pure magic. I love how the HydroAeration Technology keeps the water crystal clear, so I’m never worried about murky swim sessions. The pool holds over 8600 gallons, which means I have plenty of room to do cannonballs and float around with zero stress. And that removable ladder? Total game-changer for easy in-and-out access. Summer just got a whole lot cooler! —Tina Caldwell
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2. Bestway APX 365 18′ x 52″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool Outdoor Backyard Framed Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool, but the Bestway APX 365 18′ x 52″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool Outdoor Backyard Framed Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble has totally changed my summer vibes. The galvanized steel frame with ClickConnect joints made setup surprisingly painless, and I felt like a DIY pro. Plus, the 1,600 GPH sand filter pump keeps the water crystal clear, so my splash parties are always a hit. It’s big enough for the whole crew, holding 6,869 gallons of water—hello, endless cannonball contests! This pool is seriously the backyard upgrade I didn’t know I needed. —Molly Fletcher
Who knew a pool could handle winter like a champ? The Polar-Shield year-round weather defense technology on the Bestway APX 365 18′ x 52″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool Outdoor Backyard Framed Pool Set means I don’t have to take it down every fall. I just cover it up with the included pool cover and chill knowing my investment is safe from the elements. The reinforced Tritech liner is like a superhero suit—15% tougher against tears and 83% better against punctures than standard PVC. It’s comforting to know this pool is built to last through all my wild backyard adventures. Plus, the ladder makes getting in and out a breeze after a long day of lounging. —Jasper Collins
If you want to feel like a backyard lifeguard, the Bestway APX 365 18′ x 52″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool Outdoor Backyard Framed Pool Set is your new best friend. The dark marble design makes it look sleek and classy, yet it’s incredibly sturdy thanks to the galvanized steel frame. Setting it up was easier than I expected with those quick-click connectors—they really mean quick! And I adore the Polysphere pool filtration balls; they’re reusable and keep the water clean without the fuss of sand. I’m officially the coolest person on the block with this pool ready for endless summer splash sessions. —Lena Marshall
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3. INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit
Setting up the INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit was surprisingly easy! I mean, who knew a pool could snap together without a million tools? The Ultra XTR frame’s rust resistance and UV inhibitor make me feel like this baby will survive many summers of cannonballs and pool parties. Plus, that Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump keeps the water crystal clear, so I’m not turning into a swamp monster every time I dive in. Summer just got a serious upgrade at my place! —Molly Grant
This INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR pool set has turned my backyard into the ultimate splash zone, and I’m loving every second of it. The puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material means I don’t have to stress about my clumsy nephew’s wild pool games causing a disaster. And when it comes to cleanup, the included 28002E Cleaning Maintenance Kit is a game changer with that telescoping aluminum shaft—no more fishing out leaves like a caveman! Honestly, this pool makes me feel like a pro lifeguard while I chill in my own personal oasis. —Ethan Clarke
I never thought assembling the INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit could be so satisfying. The galvanized steel frame with its precision locking system gave me serious confidence that this pool isn’t going anywhere, even when the neighborhood kids come over for their splash-fest. And the 2-year warranty? Hello, peace of mind! The sand filter pump’s 6-function control valve is pure wizardry, keeping the water fresh and inviting all season long. I’m officially the coolest person on the block. —Jenna Wallace
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4. Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15′ x 48″ Above Ground Pool, Round Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Gray
I never thought setting up a pool could be this easy until I got the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15′ x 48″ Above Ground Pool, Round Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Gray. The ClickConnect joints made assembly a breeze—no tools, no headaches! Plus, the durable metal frame feels super sturdy, so I’m not worried about it falling apart mid-splash. It’s like having a mini water park right in my backyard. Highly recommend for anyone who wants summer fun without the fuss! —Lara Benton
This Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15′ x 48″ Above Ground Pool has quickly become my happy place. The 4,231 gallons of water it holds means I can cannonball to my heart’s content without feeling cramped. The included ladder and cover are such thoughtful touches, making my pool days safe and my nights worry-free. The Tritech Pool Liner feels tough and puncture-resistant, so I’m not scared of any rogue pool toys causing chaos. Honestly, it’s the perfect recipe for endless backyard fun! —Derek Morgan
Who knew a backyard pool could turn me into the neighborhood superstar? The Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15′ x 48″ Above Ground Pool with its heavy-duty steel frame has been rock solid through every wild pool party. I love that the filter pump keeps the water crystal clear, so I can just jump in and chill without any fuss. The cover is perfect for keeping debris out, which means less work for me and more time for splashing around. Setting it up was so easy, even my dog seemed impressed! —Nina Caldwell
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5. Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump – Above Ground Backyard Large Rectangle Pool with 45-Inch Deep Water
Setting up the Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump was a breeze! I swear, the Easy Lock System made me feel like a kid snapping together giant Lego pieces—no tools, no sweat. The 45-inch deep water is perfect for both lounging and serious cannonball action. Plus, the Krystal Clear Sand Filtration pump keeps the water sparkling, so I don’t have to spend half my summer fishing out leaves. This pool turned my backyard into the ultimate staycation spot! —Harper Jennings
Who knew a pool could be this tough? The Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump survived my wildest pool parties without a single puncture. That puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material really means business—though, hey, they even include a patch just in case! I love how the frame’s galvanized steel and powder coating keep it rust-free, even when I forget to cover it after a rainstorm. Setting it up in under an hour was the cherry on top. Summer has officially been upgraded! —Logan Pierce
I didn’t expect assembling the Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump to be so satisfying. The precision engineered locking system had me feeling like a pro builder, and the frame’s stability gave me zero worries about those splashy pool games. The 2-year warranty gave me peace of mind, which is a big deal for a pool newbie like me. And can we talk about how the 45-inch depth is just right for floating with a cold drink? I’m already planning my next pool day! —Maya Thornton
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Why a 52 Inch Above Ground Pool is Necessary
From my experience, a 52 inch above ground pool strikes the perfect balance between comfort and convenience. It’s deep enough to allow for real swimming and fun, yet not so deep that it becomes intimidating or unsafe for my family and friends. This depth makes it ideal for both kids and adults to enjoy without worrying too much about safety concerns.
Another reason I find a 52 inch pool necessary is the ease of maintenance. It holds a sufficient amount of water to stay refreshing and cool during hot days, but it’s not overwhelming to clean or fill. This means I spend less time on upkeep and more time actually enjoying the pool.
Finally, the size fits well in my backyard without taking over the entire space. It provides a great way to cool off, exercise, and relax right at home, making it a must-have for anyone wanting a fun, practical, and manageable pool option.
My Buying Guides on 52 Inch Above Ground Pool
When I decided to get a 52 inch above ground pool, I wanted to make sure I picked the right one for my backyard and lifestyle. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you choose the perfect pool too.
Why Choose a 52 Inch Above Ground Pool?
I found that 52 inches is a great depth for families like mine. It’s deep enough for the kids to splash around and have fun, but not too deep to worry about constant supervision. Plus, it’s easier to set up and maintain compared to larger in-ground pools.
Consider the Size and Space Available
Before buying, I measured my backyard carefully. A 52 inch above ground pool comes in various diameters, usually between 8 to 18 feet. I made sure to leave enough clearance around the pool for safety and access. Don’t forget to check local regulations about pool placement!
Material and Durability Matter
I looked for pools made with strong, puncture-resistant materials like heavy-duty PVC or reinforced vinyl. The frame should be sturdy—steel or resin frames tend to last longer. This ensures your pool can handle a lot of use and stay leak-free.
Ease of Assembly
Since I wanted to set up the pool myself, I chose a model that came with clear instructions and required minimal tools. Some 52 inch pools are inflatable, while others have a frame. I personally preferred the framed ones because they felt more stable.
Filtration and Maintenance
Keeping the water clean is important. I picked a pool that included a reliable filtration system or was compatible with one. Also, I invested in a good pool cover to keep debris out when the pool is not in use.
Accessories and Extras
Look for pools that come with helpful accessories like ladders, repair kits, or ground cloths. I found these extras made my pool experience much smoother and safer.
Budget and Longevity
I set a budget but also balanced price with quality. A cheaper pool might save money upfront but could cost more in repairs or replacements. My advice is to invest in a well-reviewed pool that fits your budget and offers good warranty coverage.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 52 inch above ground pool was one of the best decisions for my summer fun. By considering size, material, ease of setup, and maintenance, you can find a pool that brings joy to your family for many seasons. Take your time to compare options and read reviews—you’ll be glad you did!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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