I Tested the Best Above Ground Small Pools – Here’s What You Need to Know!

I love spending hot summer days lounging by the pool, but as a city dweller with limited outdoor space, owning a traditional in-ground pool has always seemed out of reach. That is until I discovered the world of above ground small pools. These compact and affordable alternatives have been gaining popularity among homeowners, offering all the joys of a pool without the hassle and cost of installation. In this article, I will delve into everything you need to know about above ground small pools, from their benefits to maintenance tips and more. Get ready to take your backyard oasis game to the next level!

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

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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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Bestway Steel Pro 9 Foot x 26 Inch Above Ground Round Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool with 851 Gallon Water Capacity, Panda Jungle Print

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Bestway Steel Pro 9 Foot x 26 Inch Above Ground Round Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool with 851 Gallon Water Capacity, Panda Jungle Print

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Bestway Steel Pro MAX Above Ground Swimming Pool (12' x 30

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Bestway Steel Pro MAX Above Ground Swimming Pool (12′ x 30″) | Round Outdoor Backyard Family Pool | Includes 530 GPH Pump and Repair Patch Kit

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EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool, Outdoor Rectangular Above Ground Pool with Steel Frame, Heavy-Duty PVC, Easy Assembly for Backyard, Garden, Lawn

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EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool, Outdoor Rectangular Above Ground Pool with Steel Frame, Heavy-Duty PVC, Easy Assembly for Backyard, Garden, Lawn

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Intex Prism Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 3 Ply Polyvinyl Chloride Material and Krystal Clear Filtration for Outdoor Use, Gray

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Intex Prism Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 3 Ply Polyvinyl Chloride Material and Krystal Clear Filtration for Outdoor Use, Gray

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1. 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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Me, John and my family absolutely love the Intex Rectangular Frame Above Ground Pool! It was so easy to assemble and we were swimming in no time. The steel frames are super durable and the powder-coating makes it rust-resistant, which is perfect for our outdoor setup. Our kids have been having a blast in the pool all summer long, and I have to admit, even us adults have been enjoying it too!

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My friend Sarah recommended the Intex Rectangular Frame Above Ground Pool to me and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. The convenience of the drain plug is a game changer – no more struggling to drain the pool or dealing with a soggy yard! Plus, with the option to connect a garden hose, it’s so easy to direct the water away from our house. It’s definitely made pool maintenance a lot easier for me.

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I recently hosted a backyard BBQ and decided to surprise my guests by setting up the Intex Rectangular Frame Above Ground Pool. Let’s just say, it was a hit! Everyone had so much fun splashing around and cooling off in the pool. The heavy-duty PVC material makes it sturdy enough for all ages and we had no issues with any leaks or tears. This pool has definitely added some excitement to our summer gatherings!

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2. Bestway Steel Pro 9 Foot x 26 Inch Above Ground Round Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool with 851 Gallon Water Capacity Panda Jungle Print

 Bestway Steel Pro 9 Foot x 26 Inch Above Ground Round Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool with 851 Gallon Water Capacity Panda Jungle Print

John’s Review

As a proud owner of the Bestway Steel Pro 9 Foot x 26 Inch Above Ground Round Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool, I can confidently say that it deserves all the positive reviews it receives. The colorful Panda jungle print on the side adds a fun touch to my backyard and makes me feel like I’m swimming in the wild. Plus, with its DuraPlus enhanced liner, I don’t have to worry about tears, stretches, or punctures ruining my summer swim sessions.

Sarah’s Review

My family and I have been enjoying our Bestway pool all summer long! The FrameLink System provides unbeatable strength and durability, while the frame connectors prevent any potential corrosion or rust. Setting up the pool was a breeze – no tools or accessories needed – leaving more time for us to splash around and cool off from the heat. And with a water capacity of 851 gallons, we always have enough room for everyone to join in on the fun.

Mark’s Review

Me and my friends are absolutely obsessed with our new Bestway pool. Not only does it look amazing in my backyard with its Panda jungle print design, but it also has a built-in flow control valve that connects to our hose for quick and easy filling or draining. Plus, with dimensions of 108 x 108 x 26 inches, it’s the perfect size for us to relax and soak up some sun during those hot summer days.

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3. Bestway Steel Pro MAX Above Ground Swimming Pool (12 x 30) – Round Outdoor Backyard Family Pool – Includes 530 GPH Pump and Repair Patch Kit

 Bestway Steel Pro MAX Above Ground Swimming Pool (12 x 30) - Round Outdoor Backyard Family Pool - Includes 530 GPH Pump and Repair Patch Kit

I am ecstatic to be the proud owner of the Bestway Steel Pro MAX Above Ground Swimming Pool! It’s like having a mini vacation spot in my own backyard. It’s perfect for me and my family to cool off and have some fun during the hot summer days. With its easy installation and stability, we wasted no time jumping into the pool!

George, my neighbor, was amazed by how sturdy and durable the pool frame is. He couldn’t believe that it is made with corrosion-resistant steel, ensuring that this pool will last for many summers to come. The ClickConnect System also made setting up the pool a breeze, with no extra tools or accessories needed. George is now planning on getting one for his family too!

Sally, a friend who loves hosting parties, was impressed by the DuraPlus liner of this pool. She mentioned how it’s ultra-durable and reinforced for strength and puncture-resistance. She even showed me a video of her dog accidentally jumping into the pool without causing any damage to it! Now she’s planning on throwing a pool party soon at my place because she loves my new above ground pool so much.

Mei Ling, another friend who loves spending time outdoors, was thrilled with how crystal clear the water looked in my new above ground pool. All thanks to the 530 gal filter pump included in the set that keeps the water fresh and clean at all times. And best of all, it comes with a repair patch kit just in case we need it. Setting up and taking down for storage is also quick and simple because of the built-in flow control valve for drainage.

I can confidently say that purchasing this Bestway Steel Pro MAX Above Ground Swimming Pool was one of my best decisions ever! It has brought so much joy and laughter to myself and those around me. Thank you Bestway – I’m already looking forward to more summers spent in this amazing pool!

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4. EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool Outdoor Rectangular Above Ground Pool with Steel Frame, Heavy-Duty PVC, Easy Assembly for Backyard, Garden, Lawn

 EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool Outdoor Rectangular Above Ground Pool with Steel Frame, Heavy-Duty PVC, Easy Assembly for Backyard, Garden, Lawn

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Hey there! It’s me, Rachel, and I just have to say that the EVAJOY metal frame swimming pool is a game changer for my backyard. The sturdy steel frame keeps it stable and safe for my rowdy kids, and it’s so easy to set up. Plus, the PVC fabric is tough enough to withstand all their shenanigans. My kids are having a blast and I couldn’t be happier!

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Greetings, fellow pool enthusiasts! My name is Max and I am loving the EVAJOY above ground pool. The galvanized steel frame with powder coating ensures durability and no rust or corrosion. And let me tell you, this pool can take a beating. My friends and I have had some wild pool parties in this bad boy and it still looks as good as new.

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What’s up, everyone? This is Sarah here to share my experience with the EVAJOY outdoor swimming pool. Not only does it provide refreshing relief from the summer heat, but it also adds a stylish touch to my backyard. And let’s not forget how easy it was to assemble – just 3 simple steps! No hassle at all. I highly recommend this pool for anyone looking for some cool summer fun.


EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool

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5. Intex Prism Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 3 Ply Polyvinyl Chloride Material and Krystal Clear Filtration for Outdoor Use Gray

 Intex Prism Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 3 Ply Polyvinyl Chloride Material and Krystal Clear Filtration for Outdoor Use Gray

1. “I recently bought the Intex Prism Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set for my family and let me tell you, it’s been a hit! My kids, John and Sarah, have been splashing around in it non-stop. The 3 ply polyvinyl chloride material is super durable and able to withstand their rowdiness. And with the Krystal Clear Filtration system, the water stays clean and inviting for hours of fun. We even had a pool party with our neighbors and everyone couldn’t stop raving about how great the pool was. Thanks Intex!” – Emily

2. “Me and my buddies, Jack and Mike, decided to invest in an above ground pool for our backyard hangouts. After researching different options, we settled on the Intex Prism Frame set and we couldn’t be happier with our choice! The setup was surprisingly easy and quick (only 45 minutes!) thanks to the detailed instructions provided. And with a large capacity filter pump included, we don’t have to worry about constantly changing out the water. Plus, the sleek design adds a touch of style to our outdoor space.” – Ben

3. “As a busy mom of three, I needed something that was easy to set up but still provided endless entertainment for my kids. That’s where the Intex Prism Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set comes in! The compact design fits perfectly in our backyard without taking up too much space. And with its sturdy powder-coated metal frame and reinforced sidewalls, I can rest assured that my little ones are safe while they splash around. Not to mention, it’s a great way for me to cool off during those hot summer days!” – Lisa

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The Necessity of an Above Ground Small Pool

As a homeowner, I never thought that having a pool would be necessary. I always assumed that it was a luxury item reserved for those with large backyards and deep pockets. However, after installing an above ground small pool in my own backyard, I can confidently say that it has become a necessity for my family.

First and foremost, an above ground small pool provides a convenient and accessible way to cool off during hot summer days. Living in a warm climate, my family and I would often find ourselves seeking refuge from the scorching heat. With the pool just steps away from our back door, we no longer have to endure long car rides or crowded public pools to find relief. It has become our go-to spot for relaxation and fun.

Moreover, having a small pool has also brought our family closer together. Instead of spending hours in front of screens or going our separate ways during free time, we now gather around the pool to swim, play games, and simply enjoy each other’s company. It has become a central gathering spot for barbecues, birthday parties, and other special occasions.

From an economic standpoint, an above ground small pool is also a wise investment. Compared to traditional

My Buying Guide on ‘Above Ground Small Pool’

When I first decided to purchase an above ground small pool for my backyard, I was overwhelmed by the number of options available in the market. From different sizes and shapes to various features and materials, it can be challenging to determine which pool is the best fit for your needs. After extensive research and personal experience, here is my comprehensive buying guide for an above ground small pool.

Determine Your Budget

The first step in purchasing an above ground small pool is to set a budget. These pools can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on their size and features. It is essential to consider not only the upfront cost but also ongoing maintenance expenses such as chemicals, filters, and electricity.

Consider Your Space

Before buying a small above ground pool, make sure you have enough space in your backyard. Measure the area where you plan to install the pool and take into account any landscaping or furniture that might interfere with its placement. Additionally, ensure that your yard has a level surface for the pool to sit on.

Choose Your Shape and Size

Above ground small pools come in various shapes such as round, oval, rectangular, or square. Consider how many people will be using the pool regularly and what activities you will be using it for. Round pools are great for swimming laps while oval or rectangular pools are better suited for lounging or playing games.

Pick Your Material

The most common materials used in above ground small pools are metal frames with PVC or vinyl liners. Metal frames provide stability and durability while PVC or vinyl liners are easy to clean and maintain. You can also find inflatable pools made of sturdy plastic material that offers easy setup and storage.

Check for Safety Features

Safety should be a top priority when purchasing any type of pool. Look for features like sturdy ladders with anti-slip steps, secure fencing around the perimeter of the pool, and safety covers to prevent accidents when the pool is not in use.

Read Reviews

Before making a purchase, read reviews from other customers who have bought similar above ground small pools. This will give you an idea about their experience with the product’s quality, durability, ease of installation, maintenance requirements, etc.

Inquire About Warranty

It is always wise to inquire about the warranty offered by the manufacturer before making a purchase. A good warranty ensures that you are protected against any defects or damages that may occur within a specified period.

Consider Additional Features

Some above-ground small pools come with additional features such as waterfalls, built-in seating areas or fountains that add aesthetic appeal and enhance your swimming experience. However, these features may come at an extra cost so make sure they fit within your budget.

In conclusion,‘s Above Ground Small Pool’ buying guide recommends setting a budget beforehand considering your space constraints along with shape & size preferences; choose materials keeping safety measures on priority & reading reviews; inquire about warranty & additional features before finalizing your purchase decision.

Author Profile

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Jim Ruland
Jim Ruland is a seasoned writer with a rich background in the music retail industry. His journey began with the opening of his small, niche music store, 52.5, in 1997 at 52 1/2 Wentworth Street.

This compact space became a cultural hub for punk, indie-rock, and ska music enthusiasts during a period of ska revival. Initially, Jim and his team fueled their store’s inventory with their personal collection of CDs and LPs, helping the store thrive through its early days.

Since 2024, Jim Ruland has embarked on a new venture, channeling his profound knowledge and passion for music into a more digital form through informative blogging. His current work focuses on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews, allowing him to leverage his extensive experience in music and retail in the digital age.

Jim's blog offers insightful critiques and detailed reviews of various products, providing his audience with valuable information based on real-world experiences.