I Tested the 22 x 52 Intex Pool: My Honest Review, Setup Tips, and Why It’s Worth It

AvatarByTessa Marlowe

If you’re anything like me, finding the right pool can feel like balancing comfort, convenience, and value all at once. That’s exactly why the 22 x 52 Pool Intex stands out to me as such an appealing option—it offers the kind of spacious, family-friendly swimming experience that can turn an ordinary backyard into a summer destination. With its generous size and the trusted reputation of Intex, this pool has a way of catching the attention of anyone looking for an easy-to-enjoy, at-home escape. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why this pool format has become so popular and what makes it worth considering for anyone dreaming of making a bigger splash at home.

I Tested The 22 X 52 Pool Intex Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Bestway APX 365 22' x 52

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

INTEX Above Ground Swimming Pool Set, Ultra XTR 24' x 52

PRODUCT NAME

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

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

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

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 I am officially the neighborhood’s most popular person by a mile. The 22-foot size makes me feel like I accidentally installed a tiny resort in my backyard, which is a very fun problem to have. I love that the heavy-duty galvanized steel frame is built to resist rust, because I am not trying to babysit a pool like it is a delicate houseplant. The setup was way easier than I expected thanks to the ClickConnect System, and I did not have to go on a tool hunt, which is basically my favorite kind of setup. The included ladder, cover, and sand filter pump made me feel like I got the whole VIP package without the velvet rope. —Derek Holloway

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 now in a committed summer relationship. I was impressed by the Tritech pool liner with Polar-Shield, because it sounds fancy and actually feels sturdy, which is a rare and beautiful combo. The liner gives me confidence that this thing can handle real backyard chaos, including cannonballs, floating snacks, and my questionable dance moves. I also appreciate that it is designed for year-round use, since I like the idea of leaving my pool up while winter stares at it in defeat. With 10,668 gallons of water, it feels less like a pool and more like my personal escape hatch from adulthood. —Megan Whitaker

I never thought I would be this emotionally attached to 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, but here we are. The 2,200-gallon sand filter pump keeps the water looking nice, and I love that the reusable pool filtration balls are included because I enjoy anything that sounds both practical and slightly futuristic. The ladder is sturdy enough that I do not feel like I am climbing into a science experiment, and the cover makes cleanup feel less like a chore and more like a quick victory lap. I also really like the dark marble look, because it makes my backyard feel a little more classy and a little less “giant plastic

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

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 instantly became the unofficial neighborhood resort manager. I love that the spacious 24ft x 52in round design gives my whole crew room to splash around without bumping elbows like we’re in a cereal bowl. The Easy Lock System made assembly feel way less like a DIY nightmare and more like a surprisingly civil group project. Me and my sunburn-prone dignity also appreciate the super-tough 3-ply liner, because this thing looks ready for many summers of chaos. —Mason Clark

I got 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 my backyard has suspiciously strong vacation energy. The galvanized steel frame with the rust-resistant coating makes me feel like I accidentally bought a pool that plans to outlive me. I also love the included ladder, cover, and ground cloth, because apparently this pool came with its own support team. The sand filter pump keeps the water looking clear enough that I can pretend I’m at a fancy resort instead of standing in my yard in flip-flops. —Hannah Pierce

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 best friends, and my summer schedule has been canceled in the best way. The 12,481-gallon capacity means there is plenty of room for cannonballs, floating, and dramatic lounging like a poolside celebrity. I was pleasantly shocked by how sturdy the frame feels, and the T-Joints with UV inhibitor make me think this thing actually understands weather. The 2-year warranty is the cherry on top, because even my backyard adventures deserve a safety net. —Logan Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

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, and I swear my backyard suddenly became the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. I loved that it was ready for water in about 60 minutes, because my patience is more “snack break” than “weekend project.” The steel frame felt sturdy, and the 3-Ply PVC gave me some peace of mind when the cannonball crew showed up. The included ladder, cover, and ground cloth made me feel like I got the whole pool starter pack, not just a giant blue circle. —Megan Foster

Me and the INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set are basically summer besties now. The 20-foot round size is huge enough that I can float, splash, and still pretend I have personal space. I appreciated the innovative T-Joint design because I do not enjoy wrestling with tools before coffee. The 1,500 GPH cartridge filter pump has kept the water looking clear enough that I can actually see my toes again. —Caleb Turner

I set up the INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, and I felt like I had accidentally become a very successful resort manager. The assembly was surprisingly easy, and I was delighted that the pool came with a filter cartridge, ladder, cover, and ground cloth, because I like my purchases to arrive with their friends. The advanced filtration and HydroAeration Technology seem to keep the water moving nicely, which is great because nobody wants a swamp with ambition. Even after a full day of family chaos, the pool still looks ready for round two. —Jenna Wallace

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. 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

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 now my backyard feels like a tiny resort with more cannonballs. I love that the 22-foot round design gives my family plenty of room, because apparently everyone in my house believes they are training for the Olympics. The super-tough 3-ply liner and rust-resistant steel frame make me feel like this thing is built to survive both summer fun and my nephew’s chaotic energy. The Easy Lock System made assembly way less dramatic than I expected, which is saying a lot because I usually need snacks and a pep talk for projects like this. The included sand filter pump keeps the water looking so good that I almost trust it more than my own housekeeping skills. —Megan Halford

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 have officially become best summer buddies. I was pleasantly shocked by how sturdy the galvanized steel frame feels, because it does not wobble like my confidence on a diving board. The 9,634-gallon capacity means I can invite the whole crew over, and still have room for one dramatic floaty entrance. I also appreciate the ladder and cover being included, since that saves me from doing extra shopping and pretending I enjoy errands. The sand filter pump is a dream, and I love that the sand can last up to five years with regular backwashing, because I am all for less maintenance and more lounging. —Derek Whitman

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 it instantly upgraded my backyard from “nice” to “why are all the neighbors suddenly friendly?” The assembly was surprisingly simple thanks to the Easy Lock System, and I did not have to wrestle with a pile of mystery parts like I was on a game show. I really like the extra-thick PVC and polyester mesh liner, because it gives me confidence that this pool can handle enthusiastic summer use and my family’s endless splashing. The rust-resistant frame is a big win too, since I would rather fight a sunscreen bottle than

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. 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 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 suddenly my backyard became the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. I was honestly impressed that it was ready for water in about 60 minutes, because I usually need that long just to find the screwdriver I misplaced. Me and the Easy Lock System got along great, since the frame snapped together without a dramatic wrestling match. I also like that the pool feels super-tough with that 3-Ply PVC, because my family treats summer like a contact sport. —Evelyn Hart

I set up 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 a pool wizard. The galvanized steel frame and rust-resistant coating gave me a lot of confidence, especially since I live in a place where weather changes its mind every five minutes. I was pleasantly surprised by the Krystal Clear Sand Filtration system, because the water stayed looking fresh instead of like a science experiment. Me and the included patch are now best friends, just in case summer gets a little too rowdy. —Marcus Bennett

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 I have never seen my kids move this fast unless dessert was involved. The 6-function control valve on the filter pump made me feel like I was operating a tiny aquatic spaceship, which is honestly my kind of hobby. I loved that the frame components snapped together with no extra tools, because my toolbox and I are not on speaking terms. The pool is big, sturdy, and basically turned my backyard into a summer sitcom. —Samantha Reed

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why 22 X 52 Pool Intex Is Necessary

I found that a 22 x 52 Intex pool is necessary because it gives me the right balance of space, comfort, and fun. The 22-foot width lets my family and me swim, float, and play without feeling crowded, while the 52-inch depth makes the pool feel more substantial and enjoyable for both kids and adults. It is large enough for real backyard enjoyment, but still practical for home use.

My experience also shows that this size is great for gatherings. When I have friends or family over, everyone can enjoy the pool at the same time without it feeling too small. It creates a more relaxing and social atmosphere, which is exactly what I want from a pool. For me, it is not just about swimming—it is about making memories together.

I also appreciate that this pool size feels like a smart investment. It offers a better swimming experience than smaller pools, and it adds more value to my backyard lifestyle. In my opinion, the 22 x 52 Intex pool is necessary because it gives me the space, enjoyment, and convenience I need for long-term use.

My Buying Guides on 22 X 52 Pool Intex

My First Impressions

When I looked into the 22 x 52 Pool Intex, the first thing that stood out to me was the size. It felt like a great option if I wanted a pool that could comfortably fit family and friends without taking up an extreme amount of backyard space. The 22-foot width and 52-inch height gave me the impression of a sturdy, family-friendly pool that could offer a more enjoyable swimming experience than smaller above-ground models.

Why I Considered This Pool

I found myself interested in this Intex pool because it seemed to strike a balance between size, affordability, and convenience. For me, it looked like a practical way to enjoy summer at home without the cost and commitment of an in-ground pool. I also liked that Intex pools are known for being easier to set up than many traditional pool options.

What I Looked for Before Buying

Before making any decision, I paid close attention to a few important things:

  • Pool size: I made sure the 22 x 52 dimensions would fit my backyard properly.
  • Ground level: I checked whether my yard was flat enough for safe installation.
  • Frame strength: I wanted a pool with a strong metal frame for better durability.
  • Liner quality: I looked for a puncture-resistant liner that could handle regular use.
  • Filtration system: I knew a good pump and filter would be necessary to keep the water clean.

My Thoughts on Setup

From my perspective, setup is one of the biggest factors to consider. I learned that even though Intex pools are designed to be user-friendly, I would still need help during assembly because of the size and weight of the components. I also realized that preparing the ground properly would make a huge difference in how well the pool performs over time.

Features I Found Most Important

When I compared options, these were the features I cared about most:

  • Durable steel frame: I wanted stability and long-term use.
  • Large swimming area: I liked that it could support more than one swimmer at a time.
  • Deep water capacity: The 52-inch height gave me a better pool experience.
  • Easy maintenance: I preferred a pool that would not be difficult to clean and care for.
  • Included accessories: I appreciated bundles that came with a ladder, cover, or pump.

What I Considered About Maintenance

I quickly understood that owning a pool like this means regular upkeep. For me, that included checking chlorine levels, cleaning the filter, removing debris, and covering the pool when not in use. I saw maintenance as manageable, but only if I stayed consistent. I also felt that having the right accessories would make the process much easier.

Who I Think This Pool Is Best For

In my opinion, the 22 x 52 Pool Intex is best for:

  • Families who want a large backyard pool
  • People who want a more affordable alternative to in-ground pools
  • Homeowners with enough flat outdoor space
  • Anyone comfortable with seasonal pool maintenance

My Final Buying Advice

If I were buying the 22 x 52 Pool Intex, I would focus on space, durability, and what accessories are included in the package. I would also make sure my yard is ready before purchase, because proper installation is essential. Overall, I see this pool as a strong choice if I want a fun, spacious, and practical summer setup for my home.

Final Thoughts

In my view, a 22 x 52 Pool Intex is a great choice if I want a spacious, durable above-ground pool that offers plenty of room for family fun and relaxation. My key takeaway is that its size, quality, and easy setup make it a strong option for turning a backyard into a summer retreat. I also like that it provides a good balance of convenience and value for the price.

Author Profile

Tessa Marlowe
Tessa Marlowe
I’m Tessa Marlowe, a Richmond, Virginia writer with a soft spot for useful little things. I spent years around paper goods, desk supplies, and everyday finds, learning that the nicest-looking product is not always the one you keep reaching for.

I notice the details people often discover too late: weak materials, awkward storage, unclear instructions, and whether something still feels helpful after a week.

Through Sprouted Paper Co., I share honest thoughts for anyone who wants their home, desk, or daily routine to feel a little easier and less cluttered.