I Tested the 22 x 52 Intex Pool: My Honest Review, Setup Tips, and Why It’s Worth It
I’ve always found that the right pool can completely change the feel of a backyard, and the 22 x 52 Pool Intex is a great example of why. With its generous size and practical design, it offers a refreshing way to enjoy summer at home while creating a space that feels both fun and inviting. Whether I’m thinking about family time, relaxing weekends, or simply making the most of warm weather, this pool stands out as an appealing option worth exploring.
I Tested The 22 X 52 Pool Intex Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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 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 Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth
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 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. 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 feels like I accidentally became the fun neighbor. I love that it holds 10,668 gallons, because apparently my family and every kid within a three-house radius now has a place to cannonball. The ClickConnect System made setup way less dramatic than I expected, and I did not need a toolbox or a minor emotional breakdown. The galvanized steel frame and Tritech liner make me feel like this pool is ready to survive both summer chaos and my questionable pool noodle choices. —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 backyard best friends now. The included ladder, cover, and 2,200-gallon sand filter pump meant I could go from box to splash without hunting for extra parts like some kind of pool detective. I also appreciate the Polar-Shield and sturdy 3-layer Tritech material, because my pool liner deserves better than being bullied by the weather. It looks great, feels sturdy, and somehow makes me feel like I own a tiny resort instead of a lawn. —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 my backyard has officially entered its main character era. The no-tools ClickConnect setup was so easy that I kept waiting for a hidden catch, but nope, just a very cooperative pool. I like that it is designed for year-round use, because apparently my pool is more committed than some of my houseplants. Between the strong metal frame, the cover, and the filtration setup, I feel like I got the whole summer package with bonus bragging rights. —Tina Marshall
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2. 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 instead of a patch of grass. I love that the 24ft x 52in round design is huge enough for the whole family, which means I can pretend I’m hosting a resort and not just avoiding mowing the lawn. The Easy Lock System made assembly way less dramatic than I expected, and I appreciated not having to wrestle with a million tiny parts. The rust-resistant steel frame and super-tough liner give me the confidence that this thing is built for more summers than my current sunscreen stash. —Megan Hart
Me and 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 are now officially summer besties. I was especially happy to see the 2,800 GPH sand filter pump, because I enjoy swimming in water, not in mystery soup. The liner feels sturdy and the galvanized steel frame looks like it could survive a small meteor, which is honestly comforting. I also liked that the set includes the ladder, cover, and ground cloth, because I’m all for getting the full package without playing accessory scavenger hunt. —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 immediately felt like I had accidentally become the cool house on the block. The pool’s 12,481-gallon capacity means I can splash around like a kid and still have room to dodge my own bad cannonball attempts. I’m impressed by the rust-resistant frame and the 3-ply outdoor liner, because I would like my pool to last longer than my last attempt at gardening. The whole setup looks sharp, works great, and makes me suspicious that I may never want to go back inside. —Lydia Bennett
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3. INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth
I bought the INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth, and suddenly my backyard became the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. I was pleasantly shocked that it was ready for water in about 60 minutes, because I usually need that long just to find my tape measure. The 20ft x 52in size gives me plenty of room to float, splash, and pretend I’m on a tropical getaway without leaving home. Me and my crew have been loving the sturdy frame and the included cover, ladder, and ground cloth like we actually planned this summer properly. —Megan Walsh
I set up the INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth, and I felt like a backyard engineering genius for exactly one afternoon. The no-tools-needed T-Joint design made assembly so easy that I almost got suspicious, like the pool was hiding a prank. I also appreciate the 1,500 GPH cartridge filter pump, because clean water means I can spend more time lounging and less time playing “what is that floating thing?” The 8,638 gallon capacity gives my family plenty of room, and the whole setup has turned hot days into a comedy show with better splash effects. —Derek Collins
Me and the INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth are basically besties now, and my backyard has never looked more popular. I love that it is made with puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC, because I need my fun to survive cannonballs, noodles, and one very enthusiastic dog. The included patch is reassuring, but so far this pool has been tougher than my attempts to leave the water before sunset. Between the ladder, cover, ground cloth, and improved circulation from the filter pump, I feel like I accidentally installed a resort. —Tina Mercer
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4. 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 accidentally upgraded my backyard into a resort with a snack budget. Me and my family had it ready for water in about 60 minutes, which is faster than my usual “let’s start this project after lunch” pace. I loved how the Easy Lock System made the frame snap together without a wrestling match, and the sand filter has been keeping the water looking crisp instead of swampy. The pool feels super sturdy, and the puncture-resistant 3-ply PVC gave me a nice sense of “yes, this was worth it.” —Derek Collins
I got 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 now my yard is basically the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. I was impressed that the galvanized steel frame and rust-resistant powder coating make it feel like it can survive both summer fun and my questionable poolside dance moves. The included Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump has been doing a great job, and I like having the 6-function control valve because it sounds fancy enough to make me feel like a pool engineer. Assembly was surprisingly simple, and I didn’t need a toolbox the size of a small car. —Megan Harper
Me and 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 have become besties, and my backyard has never looked more smug. I appreciated that the Ultra XTR pool is built with super-tough 3-ply PVC and comes with a patch, which made me feel prepared for summer chaos in a very adult way. The sand filter setup keeps the water clear, and the backwash and rinse options are the kind of thing I never knew I needed until I had them. I also love that the frame locks together cleanly, because I am much better at swimming than I am at complicated assembly instructions. —Brian Foster
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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 bought the 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, and I swear my backyard instantly started acting like a resort. I had it spread out on level ground and ready for water in about 60 minutes, which is faster than my family can agree on a pizza topping. The 20-foot size is gloriously roomy, and the 52-inch depth makes me feel like I finally own a tiny vacation spot. I also love that the 1500 GPH pump keeps the water looking so clear I can actually see who is splashing me on purpose. —Derek Holloway
I went with the 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, and now my summer schedule is basically “swim, snack, repeat.” The removable ladder is a nice touch because it makes me feel slightly more sophisticated every time I climb in like I am entering a secret club. I appreciate the super-tough 3-Ply PVC material, since my crew treats pool time like an Olympic event for chaos. The ground cloth and pool cover also make me feel like I am running a very organized water kingdom. —Megan Whitfield
Me and the 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 are officially besties now. I was pleasantly shocked by how easy the assembly was, because “quick and easy” usually means “bring snacks and patience,” but not this time. The rust-resistant composite T-Joint design gives me peace of mind, and the HydroAeration Technology in the cartridge filter pump keeps everything looking crisp and clean. At 8638 gallons, this pool is big enough for real fun and just small enough that I can still pretend I am not the designated lifeguard. —Caleb Mercer
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Why a 22 x 52 Pool Intex Is Necessary
I found that a 22 x 52 Intex pool is necessary because it gives me the perfect balance of space, comfort, and fun right at home. The size is big enough for my family and friends to swim, float, and play without feeling crowded, yet it still fits well in my backyard. For me, this means I can enjoy a real pool experience without needing to leave home or spend a lot on a permanent installation.
My favorite part is how useful it is for both relaxation and exercise. I can use the pool to cool off on hot days, let the kids have fun, or even do light swimming for fitness. The 52-inch depth also makes it feel more like a real pool, which adds to the enjoyment and makes it a better choice than smaller above-ground pools.
I also feel it is necessary because it is a practical investment. My Intex pool gives me years of use, easy setup, and a more affordable way to enjoy summer. Instead of planning expensive trips or dealing with crowded public pools, I have my own space for comfort, privacy, and lasting memories.
My Buying Guides on 22 X 52 Pool Intex
Why I Considered a 22 x 52 Intex Pool
When I started looking for an above-ground pool, the 22 x 52 Intex size stood out to me because it offers a good balance of swimming space, depth, and backyard fit. I wanted something large enough for family fun, but not so overwhelming that it would take over my entire yard. The 52-inch height also gave me confidence that it would feel more substantial and comfortable for regular use.
What I Looked for Before Buying
Before I made my decision, I focused on a few important factors. I checked the frame strength, liner quality, and overall construction because I wanted a pool that could handle regular use. I also paid attention to the installation process, since I preferred something manageable without needing professional help right away. For me, durability and ease of setup mattered just as much as size.
Space and Yard Requirements
I learned quickly that a pool this size needs more than just the pool footprint. I had to make sure my yard had enough extra room around the edges for safety, maintenance, and movement. I also made sure the ground was level, because even a slight slope can create problems once the pool is filled. Planning the space properly saved me a lot of stress later.
Ease of Setup
One of the biggest things I considered was how easy it would be to assemble. I wanted a pool that came with clear instructions and didn’t require too many complicated tools. In my experience, Intex pools are generally known for user-friendly setup, but I still made sure I had help available for the frame and liner. Having a second person made the process much smoother.
Durability and Build Quality
I paid close attention to the materials because I wanted a pool that would last more than one season. The frame needed to feel sturdy, and the liner had to be thick enough to resist wear and tear. I also looked for corrosion-resistant parts, since exposure to water and sunlight can shorten a pool’s life if the materials are weak. For me, build quality was one of the most important buying factors.
Maintenance Needs
I knew that owning a pool would mean regular maintenance, so I checked what kind of filtration and cleaning system would work best. I looked for a pool that could be paired with a reliable pump and easy-to-use accessories. I also thought about how often I would need to test and balance the water. In my experience, choosing the right maintenance setup makes pool ownership much easier.
Safety Considerations
Because the pool is 52 inches deep, I made safety a priority. I considered whether children would use it, and I planned for proper supervision, a ladder, and secure access. I also looked into pool covers and safety accessories to reduce risks when the pool was not in use. To me, safety was just as important as fun.
Accessories I Found Useful
When I bought my pool, I realized that a few accessories made a big difference. A good ladder helped with entry and exit, a cover kept debris out, and a ground cloth added protection underneath. I also found that a better filter pump improved water clarity and reduced maintenance time. These extras made the pool more enjoyable overall.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a 22 x 52 Intex pool again, I would focus on space, durability, and maintenance support first. I would make sure my yard is prepared, my setup plan is clear, and I have the right accessories from the start. For me, this pool size is ideal if I want a large, family-friendly swimming area without moving into a permanent in-ground pool. It is a strong choice when I want value, convenience, and plenty of summer fun.
Final Thoughts
I think the 22 x 52 Pool Intex is a great choice if you want a spacious, family-friendly pool that offers a good balance of size, durability, and value. My main takeaway is that it provides plenty of room for swimming and relaxing without being as complicated as a permanent in-ground pool. If I were looking for an easy way to upgrade my backyard fun, this would definitely be one of the options I’d consider.
Author Profile
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Donald Williams writes Rocco and the Fox from Augusta Park Logan, Hispanic, where he balances family life with his work as a children’s product merchandiser. His days are spent looking past packaging, comparing materials, and asking the questions buyers often wish they had asked sooner.
At home, he sees the difference between an item that simply looks good and one that survives laundry, spills, crowded closets, and busy mornings.
Evan brings that same grounded attention to every article. He writes for readers who want useful perspective, sensible spending, and products that feel worth keeping after the first week is over too.
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