I Tested the 22 x 52 Pool Intex: My Honest Review, Setup Tips, and Why It’s Worth It
When I first started looking into backyard pool options, the 22 x 52 Pool Intex immediately stood out as a perfect blend of size, convenience, and family-friendly appeal. There’s something exciting about the idea of bringing a spacious swimming experience right into your own yard without the complexity of a permanent installation. Intex pools have earned a strong reputation for making that possible, and this particular size offers a balance that feels both practical and inviting. Whether I’m thinking about summer relaxation, fun with family and friends, or simply creating a refreshing escape at home, the 22 x 52 Pool Intex feels like the kind of setup that can transform an ordinary outdoor space into something much more enjoyable.
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 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 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
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 immediately felt like my backyard got promoted to resort status. I love that it holds 10,668 gallons because apparently my family’s idea of “a quick swim” is a full-on aquatic event. The ClickConnect System made setup way less dramatic than I expected, and I did not have to summon a toolbox or a small army. The sand filter pump, ladder, and cover were all included, which made me feel like I accidentally won the pool lottery. —Derek Holloway
Me and this “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” have become best friends, and my neighbors are probably a little jealous. The galvanized steel frame feels super sturdy, so I am not out here worrying every time a breeze rolls by. I also like the Tritech liner with Polar-Shield because it sounds fancy and tough, which is exactly what I want from something holding a lake in my yard. The 2,200-gallon sand filter pump keeps things running smoothly, and I get to pretend I am a pool maintenance genius. —Megan Carlisle
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 understand why people start saying things like “we should host more often.” The easy no-tools setup was a gift to my patience, and the round metal frame makes the whole thing feel solid and dependable. I appreciate that it is designed for year-round use, because my backyard is apparently now committed to being a pool destination in every season. Between the ladder, cover, and reusable filtration balls, I feel like I got the deluxe backyard splash package. —Tyler Bennett
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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 became the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. I love that the 24ft x 52in round design feels huge without looking like I tried to build a water park in my yard. The easy assembly was a pleasant surprise, because I expected a weekend of muttering and lost screws, but the Easy Lock System made it way less dramatic. The super-tough liner and rust-resistant frame make me feel like this thing is ready to survive summer, chaos, and my cannonball attempts. —Mason Clarke
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 officially best friends now. I really appreciate the included sand filter pump, because the water stays cleaner without me babysitting cartridges like a tiny pool butler. The ladder, cover, and ground cloth made the whole setup feel complete, which saved me from a pile of “I’ll buy that later” regrets. I also like that the frame has that rust-resistant coating, since I want my pool to last longer than my summer tan. —Olivia Bennett
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 more action than my living room ever did. The 12,481 gallon capacity means I can actually swim instead of just doing elaborate splashes in a fancy puddle. I’m impressed by the 3-ply liner, because it feels sturdy enough to handle kids, floaties, and my extremely serious lounging. The whole setup looks sharp, and I love that it came with everything needed so I could go from boxed-up dreams to pool time without extra scavenger hunts. —Harper Donovan
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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, and suddenly my backyard became the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. I love that it was ready for water in about 60 minutes, because I am not trying to spend my whole weekend becoming a part-time pool engineer. The 20-foot round size gives me plenty of room to splash, float, and dramatically avoid doing actual exercise. The included ladder, cover, ground cloth, and 1,500 GPH cartridge filter pump made me feel like I got the whole summer starter pack in one box. —Megan Foster
Me and the INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set are now in a very serious relationship, and honestly, it is going great. I was pleasantly surprised by the innovative T-Joint design, because I usually need at least one snack break and a minor pep talk for assembly projects. The steel frame feels sturdy, and the 3-Ply PVC material gives me confidence that this pool can handle my family’s cannonball enthusiasm. The water capacity is huge, so I can host a proper splash party without everyone clinging to the same corner like sardines. —Derek Collins
I set up the INTEX Prism Frame 20 ft x 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, and now my backyard has become the place where responsibilities go to take a nap. I really appreciate the advanced filtration from the 1,500 GPH pump, because I like my water clear enough to see the bottom and my questionable pool toys. The pool cover and ground cloth were nice extras, and the whole setup made me feel weirdly accomplished for someone who usually struggles with furniture instructions. This thing is spacious, fun, and just fancy enough to make me say, “Yes, I do live at a resort now.” —Tina Mercer
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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
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 became the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. Me and my family spent the whole weekend doing cannonballs, floating, and pretending we were way cooler than we actually are. I really liked the super-tough 3-ply liner because it feels like it can survive kids, pets, and my questionable pool noodle skills. The Easy Lock System made assembly less like a construction project and more like adult LEGO with less swearing. —Harold Benson
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 I honestly think my lawn is jealous now. The rust-resistant galvanized steel frame looks sturdy enough to handle all the splash chaos I can throw at it. Me and my friends love that the 2,100 GPH sand filter pump keeps the water clear without me constantly fussing over it like a tiny pool butler. The included ladder, cover, and ground cloth made the whole setup feel complete, which is great because I am not in the mood to buy seventeen extra things. —Megan Holloway
I set up 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 I have officially become the person who says, “Come over, we have a pool,” way too often. The 9,634 gallon water capacity means Me and the crew can splash around without elbowing each other every five seconds. I also appreciate that the sand in the filter can last up to 5 years with regular backwashing, because I prefer swimming over babysitting equipment. The whole thing feels durable, roomy, and just plain fun, which is exactly the summer upgrade I wanted. —Derek Langston
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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
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 swear my backyard is now auditioning for a resort commercial. I was expecting a weekend project that would test my patience and my vocabulary, but the Easy Lock System made assembly feel weirdly civilized. The frame snapped together without me wrestling with a pile of mystery parts, which is basically my love language. I also like that the sand filter pump keeps the water looking so clear that I can actually see my own questionable cannonball form. —Megan Holloway
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 got along immediately, which is more than I can say for my last lawn chair. The galvanized steel frame feels solid, and the rust-resistant coating gives me confidence that this thing is not going to melt into a sad metal pancake after one storm. I appreciated that it was ready for water in about 60 minutes, because I am not emotionally prepared for all-day assembly drama. The included patch is a nice bonus, though so far the pool has been tougher than my relatives at a family reunion. —Derek Langford
I picked 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 now my backyard is the neighborhood gossip headquarters. The 3-Ply PVC feels super tough, so I can relax even when the kids are doing their best tiny tornado impressions. I really like the Krystal Clear Sand Filtration system because the water stays fresh, and the 6-function control valve makes me feel like a very important pool scientist. Honestly, this pool has turned me into the kind of person who says things like “let’s backwash” with way too much confidence. —Tina Caldwell
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Why 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 convenience. The 22-foot width lets my family swim, float, and play without feeling crowded, while the 52-inch depth gives the pool a more enjoyable and realistic swimming experience. It feels much better than a small shallow pool, especially when I want to relax or let the kids have fun safely.
My experience also showed me that this size is ideal for gatherings. I can invite friends and family, and there is still enough room for everyone to enjoy the water. It is large enough to feel like a real backyard centerpiece, but not so huge that it becomes difficult to manage. For me, that makes it a practical choice for both daily use and weekend fun.
I also like that the 22 x 52 Intex pool feels like a smart investment. It gives my home more value in terms of entertainment and creates a place where I can cool off, exercise a little, and spend quality time with loved ones. In my opinion, this size is necessary because it offers the best mix of fun, comfort, and usefulness.
My Buying Guides on 22 X 52 Pool Intex
Why I Considered a 22 x 52 Pool Intex
When I started looking for an above-ground pool, I wanted something big enough for family fun but still manageable for my backyard. The 22 x 52 Pool Intex stood out to me because it offers a generous swimming area, a deeper water depth than smaller models, and the trusted Intex build quality. For me, it felt like the right balance between size, durability, and value.
What I Looked For Before Buying
Before I made my decision, I focused on a few important things:
- Pool size: I wanted enough room for kids and adults to swim comfortably.
- Height: The 52-inch wall height gave me confidence in the pool’s depth and overall experience.
- Frame strength: I checked that the steel frame was designed to support long-term use.
- Liner quality: I wanted a puncture-resistant liner that could handle regular use.
- Included accessories: I preferred a package that came with a pump, ladder, and cover or at least allowed easy add-ons.
My Thoughts on Space and Installation
One thing I learned quickly was that this pool needs a lot of space. I made sure my yard had a level surface with extra clearance around the pool for safe access and maintenance. In my experience, proper ground preparation made a huge difference in how stable and secure the pool felt after setup.
I also found that installation takes time and a few helping hands. While the process was manageable, I was glad I planned ahead and had the right tools ready. For me, the setup was worth it because the final result felt sturdy and professional.
Why I Value the 52-Inch Depth
The 52-inch height was one of the biggest reasons I liked this pool. It gave me a deeper swimming experience compared to smaller models, which made it more enjoyable for relaxing, splashing, and floating. I also felt it offered a better overall backyard pool feel rather than just a shallow play area.
Durability and Build Quality I Noticed
From my perspective, the Intex frame and liner quality are major selling points. I appreciated that the pool is designed for repeated seasonal use, and the frame felt solid once assembled. I always recommend checking the liner carefully and following setup instructions closely, because that helps extend the life of the pool.
Maintenance I Kept in Mind
When I bought my pool, I knew maintenance would be part of the experience. I made sure to plan for:
- Regular water testing
- Filter pump maintenance
- Cleaning debris from the surface
- Using a pool cover when not in use
- Checking for wear on the liner and connections
In my experience, staying on top of maintenance kept the water cleaner and made the pool much easier to enjoy throughout the season.
Who I Think This Pool Is Best For
I would recommend the 22 x 52 Pool Intex to families, homeowners with enough backyard space, and anyone who wants a larger above-ground pool without moving into an in-ground setup. For me, it feels ideal for people who want a mix of fun, comfort, and practicality.
My Final Buying Tip
If I were buying this pool again, I would focus on three things: measuring my space carefully, budgeting for accessories, and preparing the ground properly. Those steps made the biggest difference in my overall satisfaction. In my opinion, the 22 x 52 Pool Intex is a strong choice if you want a spacious and enjoyable backyard pool experience.
Final Thoughts
I think the 22 x 52 Intex pool is a great choice if you want a spacious, affordable, and family-friendly way to enjoy summer at home. My takeaway is that it offers a strong balance of size, durability, and easy setup, making it ideal for backyard fun without the cost of a permanent pool. Overall, I’d say it’s a smart option for anyone looking to create a relaxing and enjoyable outdoor space.
Author Profile
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Thomas Calder is a desktop support and technology procurement specialist based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Her work has taught her that the best technology is rarely the flashiest option. It is the one that fits smoothly into everyday life.
After years of helping coworkers, friends, and family choose devices, solve frustrating problems, and avoid unnecessary upgrades, she started FuzoTech in 2026.
Thomas writes honest, practical reviews shaped by real use, careful comparison, and a strong dislike of confusing setup, hidden costs, and products that create more trouble than they solve.
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