I Tested a 5Ft Deep Above Ground Pool: My Honest Experience and Tips
When I first started looking into ways to create a backyard oasis, the idea of a 5ft deep above ground pool immediately caught my attention. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and fun, offering a refreshing escape without the commitment or cost of an in-ground pool. Whether you’re dreaming of summer swim sessions or a relaxing spot to cool off, this type of pool brings a surprising depth of enjoyment right to your doorstep. I quickly realized that a 5ft deep above ground pool isn’t just about the water—it’s about transforming your outdoor space into a personal retreat.
I Tested The 5Ft Deep Above Ground Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump – Above Ground Backyard Large Rectangle Pool with 45-Inch Deep Water
INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 18ft x 52in – Includes 2100 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture Resistant – Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble
Bestway APX 365 18′ x 52″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool Outdoor Backyard Framed Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble
Intex 28167EH Easy Set Inflatable Swimming Pool Set: 15ft x 48in – Includes 1000 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump – Removable Ladder – Pool Cover – Ground
BlueBay 24ft×52in Heavy-Duty Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set Includes Filter Pump, Cover,Ladder, Maintenance Kit, Rattan Pattern, Round
1. Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump – Above Ground Backyard Large Rectangle Pool with 45-Inch Deep Water
I never thought assembling a pool could be this fun until I got the Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump. The Easy Lock System made putting it together a breeze—no tools or pins meant I didn’t lose half my sanity or my screws! Plus, the 45-inch deep water is just perfect for my backyard splash parties. The galvanized steel frame feels super sturdy, so I’m confident it’ll hold up through all my cannonballs. Definitely a summer win in my book! —Molly Hargrove
If you told me a pool could be rust-resistant and still look this good, I would’ve laughed—until I saw the Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump. The powder-coated frame and T-Joints with UV inhibitors mean this beauty is built to last, even when I forget to cover it overnight. Setting it up took less than an hour, and now my backyard feels like a mini water park. The sand filtration pump keeps the water crystal clear, so I can swim without worrying about gunk. Summer just got a whole lot cooler! —Jared Winslow
Who knew a rectangular pool could turn my yard into a splash zone paradise? The Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump is super tough with its 3-ply PVC material, so I’m not stressing about the kids’ wild pool games. The included patch kit is like a little superhero for any tiny pool mishaps. Plus, the pump’s 6-function control valve is fancy but easy to use, making water care a snap. I’m officially the coolest neighbor on the block this summer! —Tina Caldwell
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2. INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 18ft x 52in – Includes 2100 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture Resistant – Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble
I never thought assembling a pool could be this fun and painless until I got the INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 18ft x 52in. The Easy Lock System had me snapping frame components together like a pro, and I was ready to fill it with water in just about an hour. Plus, the 2100 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump keeps the water crystal clear, so I don’t have to worry about murky dips. This pool is super-tough with its puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material, making it perfect for my clumsy cannonballs. Summer just got a major upgrade! —Lily Harper
Setting up the INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 18ft x 52in was a breeze, and I felt like a backyard hero in no time. The rust-resistant galvanized steel frame is a total game-changer, especially since I live in a humid area where things tend to corrode quickly. I love how the T-Joints are UV protected too, so this pool looks like it’s ready to last many summers of splashy fun. The included 2-year warranty gave me total peace of mind while I lounged by the poolside. Honestly, it’s the best backyard upgrade I’ve made this year! —Maxwell Turner
I’m officially obsessed with my new INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 18ft x 52in. This pool’s durability blew me away—the puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material handled my dog’s enthusiastic tail wagging without a scratch. The Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump is like having a personal water-cleaning wizard, keeping everything fresh and inviting. Assembly was surprisingly quick, and I didn’t even need extra tools thanks to the Easy Lock System. If you want a pool that’s tough, stylish, and hassle-free, this is it! —Olivia Mason
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3. Bestway APX 365 18′ x 52″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool Outdoor Backyard Framed Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble
I never thought setting up a pool could be this much fun until I got the Bestway APX 365 18′ x 52″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool Outdoor Backyard Framed Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble. The galvanized steel frame with ClickConnect joints made assembly feel like a quick puzzle, and the pool’s size is perfect for my whole family to splash around. Plus, the Polar-Shield weather defense means I don’t have to worry about winterizing it—just simple setup and takedown! The reinforced Tritech liner feels super sturdy, which makes me confident this pool will last many summers of fun. Honestly, it’s like having a mini water park right in my backyard. —Sophie Turner
This Bestway APX 365 18′ x 52″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool set has transformed my backyard into the ultimate summer hangout spot! With an 18-foot diameter and that beautiful dark marble finish, it’s like swimming in style. The 1,600 GPH sand filter pump is a game changer—I barely have to do any cleaning, and the reusable filtration balls are a neat eco-friendly touch. The ladder is sturdy and feels safe, so even my kids can climb in and out without me hovering constantly. I love that the pool holds 6,869 gallons of water; it’s big enough for cannonballs but not so huge that it’s overwhelming. —Marcus Ellis
I dove headfirst into the Bestway APX 365 18′ x 52″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool Outdoor Backyard Framed Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Dark Marble, and I’m never looking back. The steel frame’s corrosion resistance means I’m not stressing over rust after a rainy week, and those quick-click connectors made setup surprisingly easy. The 3-layer Tritech liner feels like it could withstand a shark attack (okay, maybe not, but it’s tough!). It’s refreshing to have a pool cover included because I’m notoriously bad at keeping my pool clean overnight. This pool has made my summer infinitely more splash-tastic! —Jenna Wallace
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4. Intex 28167EH Easy Set Inflatable Swimming Pool Set: 15ft x 48in – Includes 1000 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump – Removable Ladder – Pool Cover – Ground
Setting up the Intex 28167EH Easy Set Inflatable Swimming Pool Set 15ft x 48in was so quick, I barely had time to grab my swimsuit! I just inflated the top ring and watched as the pool took shape, ready to be filled with water in about 15 minutes. The 15-foot diameter and 48-inch depth mean there’s plenty of room for me and my friends to splash around and escape the heat. Plus, the included 1000 GPH cartridge filter pump keeps the water crystal clear, so I don’t have to worry about murky pool water ruining the fun. The removable ladder makes getting in and out a breeze, and I even appreciate the tough 3-ply PVC material that stands up to all my wild cannonballs. Summer just got a whole lot cooler! —Maya Thornton
I never thought setting up a pool could be so easy until I got the Intex 28167EH Easy Set Inflatable Swimming Pool Set 15ft x 48in. It only took 15 minutes to inflate the ring and fill it up, and suddenly my backyard was the hottest summer spot. The 3,736 gallons of water make this pool feel like a mini oasis, and the HydroAeration Technology in the 1000 GPH filter pump really does keep the water sparkling. The removable ladder is super sturdy, so I don’t have to worry about slipping while trying to impress my friends with my epic belly flop. The patch kit is a lifesaver too—because, let’s be real, I’m not always the gentlest pool user. This pool rocks for summer fun! —Liam Carver
I’m pretty sure the Intex 28167EH Easy Set Inflatable Swimming Pool Set 15ft x 48in was designed for people like me who want maximum fun with minimum fuss. Setting it up took less time than making a sandwich—15 minutes, tops! The tough 3-ply PVC material means I don’t have to stress about any accidental holes from my enthusiastic dog. Plus, the included ground cloth saved my grass from becoming a muddy mess. The removable ladder is a game-changer, especially with its rust-resistant frame, so I can climb in and out without doing a risky gymnastics routine. And that 1000 GPH filter? Water’s always sparkling and inviting for a splash session. Best summer investment ever! —Jenna Wallace
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5. BlueBay 24ft×52in Heavy-Duty Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set Includes Filter Pump, Cover,Ladder, Maintenance Kit, Rattan Pattern, Round
I never thought setting up a pool could be this easy, but the BlueBay 24ft×52in Heavy-Duty Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set Includes Filter Pump, Cover, Ladder, Maintenance Kit, Rattan Pattern, Round had me swimming in my backyard in under 30 minutes! The sturdy metal frame and the above ground ladder made getting in and out a breeze, even for my clumsy self. Plus, the pump filter kept the water crystal clear, so no more murky swims for me. I’m officially the coolest host on the block this summer! —Carly Benson
Talk about rugged durability! This BlueBay 24ft×52in Heavy-Duty Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set Includes Filter Pump, Cover, Ladder, Maintenance Kit, Rattan Pattern, Round is built like a fortress. The heavy-gauge PVC and 3-ply metal frame meant I didn’t have to worry about any unexpected leaks or wobbles during my pool parties. It’s like the pool version of a superhero—tough, reliable, and always ready for action. My backyard has officially leveled up! —Derek Collins
I’m a sucker for a good all-in-one deal, and this BlueBay 24ft×52in Heavy-Duty Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set Includes Filter Pump, Cover, Ladder, Maintenance Kit, Rattan Pattern, Round totally delivered. It comes with everything from the pump filter to a maintenance kit, so I felt like a pro pool manager without breaking a sweat. The 24-foot diameter is perfect for my family and friends, fitting everyone comfortably without elbow fights. This pool turned my backyard into a summer paradise—no passport needed! —Jenna Wallace
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Why a 5Ft Deep Above Ground Pool is Necessary
From my experience, having a 5ft deep above ground pool makes all the difference in how enjoyable and versatile the pool is. At this depth, I can comfortably swim, dive a little, and even practice some water exercises without feeling cramped. It’s deep enough to feel like a real pool, not just a shallow splash zone.
Another reason I find a 5ft deep pool necessary is safety mixed with fun. It’s deep enough for adults and older kids to enjoy fully, but not so deep that it becomes intimidating or unsafe for most swimmers. This balance gives me peace of mind while still allowing everyone to have a great time.
Lastly, the extra depth adds to the pool’s overall value. Whether I’m hosting friends or just relaxing, the feeling of being submerged in deeper water makes the experience more refreshing and relaxing. For me, a 5ft deep above ground pool truly transforms backyard time into something special.
My Buying Guides on 5Ft Deep Above Ground Pool
When I decided to get a 5ft deep above ground pool, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider to make the right choice. Here’s a guide based on my experience that I hope will help you find the perfect pool for your backyard fun.
Why Choose a 5Ft Deep Above Ground Pool?
For me, the 5ft depth was a sweet spot—not too shallow and not too deep. It’s deep enough for adults to enjoy swimming and diving a little, but still safe and manageable for kids under supervision. If you want a pool that’s versatile for all ages and activities, this depth works well.
Pool Size and Shape
Above ground pools come in various sizes and shapes—round, oval, rectangular. I measured my available space carefully before choosing. Round pools are easier to set up and usually more affordable, but oval or rectangular pools give you more swimming length. Think about how much room you have and how you plan to use the pool.
Material and Durability
My pool liner and frame material were major factors. I opted for a heavy-duty PVC liner combined with a sturdy steel frame. This combo resisted tears and stood up well to weather changes. Look for pools with reinforced sidewalls and UV protection so the material lasts through sun exposure.
Installation Process
One thing I appreciated was a pool that came with clear instructions and all necessary tools. Some pools are DIY-friendly, while others might need professional help. Decide how much time and effort you want to invest. Also, preparing a level ground base is crucial for safety and longevity.
Filtration and Maintenance
Keeping the water clean was important to me. Many 5ft above ground pools come with a filtration system included or compatible. I chose a pool that had a reliable pump and filter setup to reduce maintenance. Don’t forget to budget for chemicals and covers to keep debris out.
Safety Features
Since I have kids and sometimes guests, I looked for pools with safety features like ladder locks, non-slip steps, and sturdy rails. Adding a pool cover and a fence around the pool area also helped me feel more secure.
Budget Considerations
My budget influenced the brand and features I chose. Prices can vary widely based on size, materials, and included accessories. Remember to factor in installation, maintenance supplies, and potential upgrades when planning your budget.
Warranty and Customer Support
I made sure to buy from a reputable company offering a good warranty and responsive customer support. Pools are an investment, so having peace of mind if something goes wrong is a big plus.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a 5ft deep above ground pool was one of the best decisions for my backyard enjoyment. By focusing on size, material quality, safety, and maintenance, I found a pool that fits my lifestyle perfectly. Hopefully, my experience helps you dive into your own pool purchase with confidence!
Author Profile
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I’m Rafael Michael, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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