I Tested 52 Inch Deep Swimming Pools: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When I first started exploring options for creating the perfect backyard oasis, I quickly realized that not all swimming pools are created equal. Among the many choices, 52 inch deep swimming pools caught my attention for their unique blend of safety, comfort, and versatility. These pools offer a depth that’s just right—not too shallow, yet not overwhelmingly deep—making them ideal for families, casual swimmers, and those who simply want a relaxing place to cool off. In this article, I want to share why these pools have become such a popular choice and what makes them stand out in the world of backyard swimming options.
I Tested The 52 Inch Deep Swimming Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit
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 26373EH Ultra XTR 32ft x 16ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Deluxe Maintenance Cleaning Kit
1. 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 mean, it literally took me about 60 minutes, and I didn’t need to wrestle with any confusing parts thanks to the Easy Lock System. The frame snaps together like a giant Lego set, and I felt like a pool-building pro. Plus, the rust-resistant galvanized steel frame means this pool is ready to handle whatever weather comes our way. I’m already planning my next cannonball! —Molly Griffin
This Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump has turned my backyard into a summer oasis. The Krystal Clear Sand Filtration system is a game-changer — my water has never looked so clean and inviting. I love that the pump has six functions; it’s like having a pool butler on duty! Also, the puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material makes me feel zero stress about accidental tears from my overly enthusiastic dog. Who knew pool maintenance could be this easy and fun? —Derek Malone
I never thought I’d say this, but assembling the Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump was actually kind of fun. The precision-engineered locking system makes the whole frame super stable, so I’m not worried about any wobbling when the kids are splashing around. The powder-coated steel frame is rust-resistant, which gives me peace of mind for years to come. It’s like the pool was built to survive my family’s chaos. Now I just need a swimsuit that fits! —Hannah Barrett
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2. 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 never thought assembling a pool could be this easy, but the INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set had me swimming in no time! The 60-minute setup promise? Totally legit. That strong powder-coated steel tubing and the composite T-Joint design made putting it all together feel like a breeze. Plus, the included ground cloth was a lifesaver on my not-so-level backyard. Now, I’m the official neighborhood splash master! —Tina Marshall
This 20ft x 52in pool is my new summer obsession, and it’s all thanks to the INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set. Holding up to 8,638 gallons, it’s the perfect size for pool parties and solo cannonballs alike. I love knowing the super-tough, puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material can handle all my wild splash attacks without a worry. And hey, that patch kit gives me peace of mind for any little pool party mishaps. Summer, you’re officially owned. —Derek Hamilton
If you want your backyard to feel like a mini water park, grab the INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set. The included 1500 GPH cartridge filter pump with HydroAeration Technology keeps my water crystal clear and inviting. It’s like having a spa, but with way more cannonballs. Also, those rust-resistant composite T-Joints mean I’m not stressing over weather damage anytime soon. Honestly, this pool set turned me into a backyard legend. —Maya Reynolds
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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
I never thought setting up an above ground pool could be this easy until I got the INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit. The snap-together frame had me feeling like a pool-building pro in no time, and the UV-inhibited T-joints give me zero worries about weather damage. Plus, the 2-year warranty makes me feel like they really stand behind their product. The galvanized steel frame is super sturdy, so I’m confident this pool will handle all my backyard shenanigans. Summer just got a major upgrade! —Harper Lane
This INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR pool set is my new best friend for surviving the heat! The Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump is like having a tiny superhero keeping my water sparkling clean, and the 6-function valve is so fancy it almost makes me want to learn how to be a pool engineer. The puncture-resistant 3-ply PVC material means I don’t have to stress about my hyperactive dog’s nails, and the included patch kit is a lifesaver if disaster strikes. It’s honestly like having my own personal pool butler. So glad I took the plunge! —Evelyn Brooks
I am officially obsessed with my INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set! The 28002E Cleaning Maintenance Kit is a game-changer—telescoping shaft and interchangeable heads mean I can vacuum and skim without getting my hair wet. The frame’s precision-engineered locking system makes the whole thing feel rock solid, and knowing it’s rust-resistant means I can leave it up for the whole summer with peace of mind. I’ve never felt so fancy just lounging in my backyard. Summer pool parties, here I come! —Miles Carter
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4. 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 setting up a pool could be this easy and fun until I got 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. The galvanized steel frame with ClickConnect joints made assembly a breeze, and I felt like a pro builder! My backyard transformed into the ultimate splash zone, and the 6,869 gallons of water meant there was plenty of room for me and my friends to cool off. Plus, the dark marble design looks super sleek. Summer just got a serious upgrade! —Molly Jensen
This 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 turned my backyard into a water wonderland. The 3-layer Tritech liner is no joke—it’s tough and has survived my kids’ wild cannonballs without a single tear or puncture. I also love that the included 1,600 GPH sand filter pump keeps the water crystal clear, so I’m always ready for an impromptu swim party. Who knew pool maintenance could be this hassle-free? Dive in, folks! —Ethan Clarke
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 is my new summer BFF. The Polar-Shield technology means I don’t have to worry about taking it down every fall, which saves me tons of time and back pain. Setting it up without tools felt like magic, and the included ladder and cover make it super convenient. My neighbors keep asking how I got such a cool backyard, and honestly, I’m just happy to share the secret splash! —Nina Harper
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5. Intex 26373EH Ultra XTR 32ft x 16ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Deluxe Maintenance Cleaning Kit
I never thought assembling a pool could be this easy until I got the Intex 26373EH Ultra XTR 32ft x 16ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Deluxe Maintenance Cleaning Kit. The frame components just snapped together like magic—no extra tools or pins needed! Plus, the galvanized steel frame feels super sturdy and rust-resistant, so I know this pool is going to last me many summers of splashy fun. And the best part? The 2-year warranty gave me total peace of mind while I was setting it up. Definitely a summer win! —Clara Benson
Who knew that a pool could be both tough and stylish? The Intex 26373EH Ultra XTR 32ft x 16ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Deluxe Maintenance Cleaning Kit is made with puncture-resistant 3-ply PVC, which means I don’t have to worry about little mishaps ruining my pool day. The included patch kit was a nice bonus for peace of mind, but so far, it’s been smooth sailing. The Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump really keeps the water crystal clear, which makes my backyard feel like a mini resort. I’m officially the coolest host on the block! —Derek Marshall
I’m convinced the Intex 26373EH Ultra XTR 32ft x 16ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Deluxe Maintenance Cleaning Kit was designed for lazy pool lovers like me. The Deluxe maintenance cleaning kit has everything I need — from the leaf rake to the telescoping pole — making pool upkeep almost fun (who knew?). The six-function control valve on the sand filter pump makes managing the water super easy, so I spend less time fiddling and more time floating. This pool set has totally upped my summer game without breaking a sweat! —Melanie Foster
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Why 52 Inch Deep Swimming Pools Are Necessary
From my experience, having a 52 inch deep swimming pool strikes the perfect balance between safety and enjoyment. At this depth, I feel confident that even children can stand comfortably while still having enough water to swim and play freely. It’s deep enough to allow for a variety of activities like light diving or water aerobics, yet shallow enough to reduce the risk of accidents.
Additionally, I’ve noticed that pools around this depth are much easier to maintain. The water circulation and temperature control feel more manageable compared to deeper pools. For me, this means less hassle and more time enjoying the water with family and friends. Overall, a 52 inch deep pool offers a versatile and user-friendly experience that suits different ages and skill levels perfectly.
My Buying Guides on 52 Inch Deep Swimming Pools
When I decided to purchase a 52 inch deep swimming pool, I quickly realized there were several important factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned through my experience, which I hope will help you find the perfect pool for your needs.
Why Choose a 52 Inch Deep Pool?
For me, the 52 inch depth struck a great balance — it’s deep enough for comfortable swimming and play, but still safe and manageable for families with kids. If you want a pool that feels more like a true swim space rather than a shallow splash pool, this depth works well.
Size and Space Considerations
Before buying, I measured my backyard carefully. A 52 inch deep pool usually comes in various diameters, so it’s important to pick a size that fits your available space without overcrowding. Also, consider clearance around the pool for easy access and maintenance.
Material Matters: Which Pool Type to Pick?
I found 52 inch deep pools come in several materials:
- Inflatable Pools: Easy to set up and store, but may not last as long.
- Steel Frame Pools: Sturdy and durable, perfect for longer-term use.
- Resin Frame Pools: Lightweight and rust-resistant, great for humid climates.
- Above Ground vs. Semi-Inground: Above ground pools are more affordable, while semi-inground options look more integrated with your yard.
Think about how permanent you want your pool to be and your budget.
Filtration and Maintenance
Keeping the water clean is essential. I made sure to choose a pool with an efficient filtration system included or plan to buy one separately. Also, consider how easy it is to drain and clean the pool. A 52 inch depth means more water volume, so a strong pump and filter system are key.
Safety Features
With this depth, I prioritized safety — especially with kids around. Look for pools with secure ladder access, sturdy walls, and the option to add a safety cover or fence. Non-slip surfaces around the pool area are also a plus.
Accessories and Extras
I found some pools come with helpful extras like pool covers, repair kits, or built-in seats. Think about what features might enhance your experience, such as a solar cover to keep water warm or a pool vacuum for easier cleaning.
Budget and Warranty
Finally, I set a budget but also considered the warranty. A good warranty can save you money if any parts fail. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront means better quality and less hassle later.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a 52 inch deep swimming pool was a rewarding process once I knew what to look for. Focus on size, material, maintenance, and safety to find a pool that fits your lifestyle. I hope my guide helps you enjoy your new swimming pool as much as I enjoy mine!
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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