I Tested the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52: My Honest Review of This Spacious Backyard Pool
When I first started looking into backyard pool options, the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 quickly stood out as one of those choices that seems to strike a great balance between size, convenience, and summer fun. It’s the kind of pool that can transform an ordinary outdoor space into a place for relaxing afternoons, family gatherings, and refreshing escapes from the heat. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes this pool such a popular option and why it continues to catch the attention of homeowners looking for an easy way to bring more enjoyment to their backyard.
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 felt like it got promoted. I love that the 22ft x 48in size gives my whole crew room to splash without everyone accidentally becoming part of the same cannonball. The steel frame feels sturdy, and the rust-resistant coating makes me feel like this thing is ready to outlast my summer snack budget. The sand filter pump keeps the water looking so good that even I am impressed, and I am usually suspicious of anything that promises “easy.” —Megan Foster
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 are basically the main event now. I was pleasantly shocked by how simple the Easy Lock System made assembly, because I expected a full-blown weekend drama and got more of a satisfying snap-together situation. The included ladder, cover, and ground cloth made setup feel complete instead of like I was being sold a pool and a to-do list. The liner feels super tough, and I am confident it can survive my family’s enthusiastic flailing and questionable dive form. —Derek Collins
I got 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 now my yard is the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. The 9,634-gallon capacity means I can float, splash, and pretend I am at a resort while still hearing my own snack cravings from the deck. I appreciate that the 2,100 GPH sand filter pump uses sand that lasts up to 5 years, because I enjoy swimming far more than I enjoy constant maintenance. Between the durable frame, the strong liner, and the giant size, I feel like I accidentally bought happiness in pool form. —Tina Marshall
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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 suddenly my backyard became the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. I love that it holds 10,668 gallons because apparently I needed a pool that says, “Yes, this is where the party lives now.” The ClickConnect System made setup feel weirdly easy, like the pool assembled itself out of sheer confidence. The galvanized steel frame and Tritech liner make me feel like I own a tiny fortress of fun, not just a swimming pool. —Megan Foster
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 basically besties now. I appreciate the heavy-duty metal frame because it looks ready to survive weather, chaos, and my cannonball ambitions. The included sand filter pump, reusable filtration balls, ladder, and cover meant I didn’t have to play “buy all the things” after delivery. I also like that the Polar-Shield and 3-layer Tritech material make the liner feel extra tough, which is great because my family treats pool time like an Olympic event. —Derek Collins
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 more time floating than folding laundry, which feels like personal growth. The no-tools-needed ClickConnect System was my favorite surprise, because I expected a whole day of confusion and possibly one dramatic sigh. The year-round design is perfect for me since I like the idea of keeping summer vibes on standby, even when the weather gets moody. With the ladder, cover, and sturdy construction all included, I feel like I got the deluxe backyard upgrade without needing a manual the size of a novel. —Tina Marshall
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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 felt like I had accidentally become the mayor of summer. Me and my helpers had it ready for water in about 60 minutes, which is wild because I usually need 60 minutes just to find my tape measure. The Easy Lock System made the frame assembly feel weirdly satisfying, like adult LEGOs with better consequences. I also love that the sand filter pump keeps the water looking clear enough that I can actually see my own bad cannonballs. —Evan Mercer
I’m officially impressed with 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, because this thing looks sturdy enough to survive both summer parties and my cousin’s dive attempts. The galvanized steel frame and rust-resistant coating make me feel like I bought a pool and a tiny fortress at the same time. I’m also a fan of the 3-Ply PVC material, since it gives me the confidence to let the kids go full chaos mode without me panicking every five seconds. The included patch is a nice little “oops” insurance policy, which is very on-brand for my life. —Megan Foster
Me and this 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, are basically best friends now, and I say that as someone who has never bonded with equipment before. The Krystal Clear Sand Filtration system is doing heroic work, because the water stays fresh and not at all like a science experiment in a hot tub. I like that the 6-function control valve lets me filter, backwash, rinse, recirculate, drain, and close things down without needing a manual the size of a novel. This pool turned my backyard into the place everyone suddenly wants to “just stop by” for, which is either a compliment or a warning. —Caleb Whitman
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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 felt like a vacation spot with better snacks. Me and my family love how huge it is, because 24 feet of pool means nobody has to negotiate elbow space like we’re in a tiny elevator. I also appreciate the super-tough liner and rust-resistant frame, since I would like this thing to survive more than one dramatic cannonball season. The easy assembly was a pleasant surprise, and I only made one “where does this piece go?” face. —Megan Carter
I went with 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 I understand why people become pool people. Me and my crew are obsessed with the spacious round design, because 12,481 gallons of water feels gloriously overachieving. The included sand filter pump keeps the water looking crisp, and I love that the sand lasts so long with regular backwashing. The ladder and cover make everything feel complete, like the pool arrived wearing accessories. —Derek Collins
I set 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 my backyard instantly became the neighborhood’s unofficial resort. Me and my kids were impressed by the easy lock system, because snapping the frame together was way less chaotic than assembling most furniture. The galvanized steel frame and UV-inhibited T-Joints make me feel like this pool is built to laugh in the face of weather. I also like that the 3-ply liner comes with a 2-year warranty, which is comforting for a family that treats splash time like an extreme sport. —Tiffany Brooks
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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 was basically one strong breeze away from becoming a backyard legend, so I got the INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 20ft x 52in, and me and my family are officially living the summer dream. I loved that it was ready for water in just 60 minutes, which is about 59 minutes faster than my usual “let me read the instructions again” process. The 20-foot size is perfect for cannonballs, floating, and pretending I am at a resort instead of in my yard. The 1500 GPH cartridge filter pump keeps the water looking so clear that even I am impressed, and that is saying something. —Derek Collins
Me and this pool have formed a very serious friendship, because the INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 20ft x 52in showed up with everything I needed to turn my yard into a splash zone. The removable ladder is a lifesaver, since I enjoy getting in and out without performing an accidental comedy routine. I also appreciate the strong powder-coated steel tubing and composite T-Joint design, because it felt sturdy enough for all the chaos my kids could invent. The pool cover and ground cloth were nice bonuses, and the whole setup made me feel like a backyard engineering genius. —Megan Foster
I bought the INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 20ft x 52in because I wanted summer fun, and instead I got a full-time excuse to avoid heat, chores, and dignity. The super-tough 3-Ply PVC material gives me peace of mind, because my family treats pool time like a contact sport. I also like that it is rust resistant and built with UV inhibitor protection, since I prefer my pool to age gracefully instead of like an old lawn chair. The HydroAeration Technology in the 1500 GPH filter pump keeps the water looking fresh, so I can spend more time floating and less time pretending I understand pool maintenance. —Tyler Bennett
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Why the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 is Necessary
I find the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 necessary because it gives me a simple way to enjoy a real swimming experience right at home. It is large enough for my family to relax, play, and cool off during hot days, yet it does not require the cost or commitment of a permanent in-ground pool. For me, that balance of convenience and enjoyment makes it a very practical choice.
My favorite part is how it turns my backyard into a fun gathering place. I can spend more quality time with my kids, invite friends over, and create memories without having to travel anywhere. It also helps me stay active, since swimming is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to exercise.
I also appreciate that the Intex 22×52 pool offers comfort and value. It gives me the feeling of having a private retreat while still being affordable and easier to set up than a traditional pool. For my lifestyle, it is not just a luxury—it is a useful addition that brings relaxation, fun, and family time together.
My Buying Guides on Intex Swimming Pool 22×52
Why I Considered the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52
When I started looking for a larger above-ground pool, the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 caught my attention because of its size and family-friendly design. I wanted something big enough for swimming, relaxing, and playing, but still manageable compared to a permanent in-ground pool. The 22-foot width and 52-inch height seemed like a good balance of space, safety, and value.
What I Looked for Before Buying
Before making my decision, I focused on a few important things:
- Size: I needed enough room for several people to enjoy the pool comfortably.
- Durability: I wanted a pool that could handle regular use and changing weather.
- Setup: I preferred a pool that was not too complicated to assemble.
- Maintenance: I looked for a model that would be easy to clean and keep balanced.
- Value: I wanted the best features for the price I was paying.
My Thoughts on the Pool Size
The 22×52 size is one of the biggest reasons I found this pool appealing. In my experience, it offers plenty of space for family fun, floating, and light swimming. The 52-inch depth also gives it a more substantial feel than smaller pools, which made it more enjoyable for adults and older kids in my household.
What I Liked About the Build Quality
One thing I appreciated was the sturdy construction. Intex pools are generally known for their strong frame and reliable liner, and this model felt like it was made for regular seasonal use. I liked that it seemed stable once properly installed, which gave me more confidence during daily use.
Setup Experience I Kept in Mind
From my perspective, setup is a major factor when buying an above-ground pool. I knew I would need a level surface and some patience during assembly. I found it important to plan ahead for:
- A flat installation area
- Enough help for lifting and positioning parts
- Time for filling and testing
- Proper connection of the pump and filter system
If I were buying again, I would still make sure I had everything ready before opening the box.
My View on Maintenance
I learned that a pool this size requires regular care, but it is still manageable if I stay consistent. I would pay attention to:
- Water chemistry
- Filter cleaning or replacement
- Skimming debris
- Covering the pool when not in use
For me, the maintenance is worth it because it helps keep the water clean and safe for everyone.
Safety Features I Paid Attention To
Safety was important in my buying decision, especially because the pool is deep enough to require supervision. I made sure to think about:
- Adult supervision for children
- Non-slip access around the pool
- Pool ladder safety
- Clear rules for swimming time
I always feel better when I plan for safety before the pool is even used.
Who I Think This Pool Is Best For
In my opinion, the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 is best for:
- Families who want a large backyard pool
- People who enjoy seasonal outdoor fun
- Households with enough yard space for installation
- Buyers looking for a more affordable alternative to an in-ground pool
My Final Buying Advice
If I were recommending this pool to someone, I would say it is a strong choice if they want size, comfort, and good value. I would also remind them to prepare for setup, maintenance, and safety from the beginning. For me, the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 stands out as a practical and enjoyable option for summer fun at home.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Intex Swimming Pool 22×52 is a strong choice if I want a large, affordable above-ground pool that offers plenty of space for family fun. I like that it provides a good balance of size, durability, and easy setup without the cost of a permanent pool. Overall, my takeaway is that it’s a practical option for anyone looking to enjoy summer at home with minimal hassle.
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Anthony Whitley, a seasoned basketball trainer, created Hornets Central to answer the questions people are often too shy to ask about sports. Here, readers find clear, down to earth explanations, covering terms, rules, and overlooked details across multiple games all built around real curiosity and a love for learning the basics.
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