I Tested a 5 Ft Deep Above Ground Pool: My Honest Experience and Tips
When I first started thinking about adding a pool to my backyard, the idea of a 5 ft deep above ground pool immediately caught my attention. It struck me as the perfect balance—deep enough to enjoy a refreshing swim and even some fun diving, yet still manageable and affordable compared to traditional in-ground options. Above ground pools have come a long way, offering both style and functionality, and a 5-foot depth opens up a whole new level of enjoyment. If you’ve ever wondered whether this type of pool could be the right fit for your home and lifestyle, you’re not alone—I’ve been right there with you, excited to explore what makes these pools stand out.
I Tested The 5 Ft 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
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15’ x 48″ Round Metal Steel Frame Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool for Families, Pool ONLY
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15 Foot by 48 Inches Round Above Ground Family Swimming Pool Set Outdoor Steel Frame with Filter, Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Gray
INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit
Intex Ultra XTR Frame 14′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Ground Cloth, and Pool Cover
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 setting up a pool could be this easy until I got the Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump. The Easy Lock System had me snapping the frame together like a pro in no time—no extra tools or pins needed! Plus, the 45-inch deep water means I can actually swim instead of just splash around. The rust-resistant powder coating gives me peace of mind, especially after a few rainy days. Summer fun just got a serious upgrade in my backyard! —Molly Jenkins
This Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump is seriously next level. The Krystal Clear Sand Filtration pump keeps my water sparkling clean, which is a total win because I’m way too lazy to mess with complicated filters. The puncture-resistant 3-ply PVC material means I don’t have to worry about any accidental pool disasters (looking at you, rogue pool toys). Setting it up took me just about an hour, and now I’m the envy of the neighborhood. Who knew a backyard pool could bring so much joy? —Ethan Wallace
I’m officially obsessed with my Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump. The galvanized steel frame is super sturdy, so I don’t have to tiptoe around it like it’s made of glass. Plus, the 2-year warranty makes me feel like I scored the jackpot on pool purchases. The fact that it’s 45 inches deep means I can finally practice my cannonballs without hitting the bottom! Honestly, this pool has turned my backyard into the ultimate summer hangout spot. —Grace Thompson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15’ x 48″ Round Metal Steel Frame Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool for Families, Pool ONLY

I never thought setting up a pool could be this fun until I got the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15’ x 48″ Round Metal Steel Frame Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool for Families, Pool ONLY. The metal steel frame is impressively sturdy, making me feel like I own a mini water park right in my backyard. It’s the perfect size for my family to splash around without elbowing each other. Honestly, I might spend more time in the pool than doing my chores now. Who needs a beach when you have this? —Molly Carpenter
This Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15’ x 48″ Round Metal Steel Frame Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool for Families, Pool ONLY has turned my backyard into the ultimate summer hangout spot. The round metal steel frame is easy to assemble, and I was swimming in no time, much to my neighbors’ envy. I love how the pool’s size lets me do cannonballs without feeling cramped. Plus, it’s so sturdy that even my dog jumped in without causing a splash disaster. Summer just got a whole lot cooler! —Ethan Wallace
I’m officially obsessed with the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15’ x 48″ Round Metal Steel Frame Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool for Families, Pool ONLY. This pool has all the serious durability of a steel frame but with the fun factor turned up to eleven. It’s large enough for a family of four to enjoy, and the setup was a breeze—no need for a PhD in engineering here. Now my backyard parties have a splashy new centerpiece that everyone loves. I might just declare myself the neighborhood pool king! —Hannah Fletcher
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15 Foot by 48 Inches Round Above Ground Family Swimming Pool Set Outdoor Steel Frame with Filter, Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Gray

I never thought having a backyard pool could be this easy until I got the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15 Foot by 48 Inches Round Above Ground Family Swimming Pool Set Outdoor Steel Frame with Filter, Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Gray. Setting it up was a breeze thanks to the FrameLink System—no tools, no fuss! The round shape is perfect, making the whole thing super stable and leaving no awkward wasted space. Now, every summer feels like a mini vacation without leaving home. Plus, the filter pump keeps the water crystal clear, so I’m always pool-party ready! —Megan Foster
This Bestway Steel Pro MAX pool has turned my backyard into the ultimate hangout spot. I love how the DuraPlus liner is super tough—no fear of little punctures from my rowdy kids or their floaties. It’s way more durable than other pools I’ve seen, so I know it’ll last through many summers of cannonballs and splash wars. The included ladder is sturdy, which means no more climbing drama, and the cover keeps everything nice when we’re not swimming. Honestly, it’s like having a mini water park just steps from my door! —Caleb Morgan
I’m officially obsessed with my Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15 Foot by 48 Inches Round Above Ground Family Swimming Pool Set Outdoor Steel Frame with Filter, Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Gray. The corrosion-resistant steel frame means I don’t have to worry about rust ruining my fun. Setup was simple and fast, and the built-in flow control valve made draining the pool a snap. The whole family is loving it, and I get major points for turning the backyard into a summer paradise. If you want hassle-free fun with a pool that’s built to last, this is it! —Jenna Larson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit

I never thought setting up an above-ground pool could be this much fun until I got the INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit. The sand filter pump is a game-changer; it keeps the water crystal clear without me having to babysit it all day. Plus, it’s huge enough for my whole family to splash around without bumping into each other. Honestly, it’s like having a mini water park in my backyard! I even caught myself doing cannonballs like a kid again. This pool set has officially turned my summer up a notch. —Molly Grant
Who knew that the INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit would turn me into a pool maintenance pro? The cleaning kit included made tidying up a breeze, and I didn’t dread it one bit. The sand filter pump works quietly and efficiently, so I barely notice it running while I lounge poolside. It’s perfect for my weekends when I just want to relax and enjoy the sunshine without fuss. Honestly, I’m impressed by how easy it was to set up and maintain. This pool has been my summer MVP! —Ethan Cole
I bought the INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit to survive this summer heat, and wow, it did not disappoint! The sand filter pump keeps the water fresh, so I don’t have to worry about any funky smells or murky water. Setting it up was surprisingly straightforward, and the pool’s size is just right for chilling and playing games. I’ve turned my backyard into the ultimate hangout spot, and my friends won’t stop coming over. If you want a splash of joy this summer, this pool is your answer! —Sophie Blake
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Intex Ultra XTR Frame 14′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Ground Cloth, and Pool Cover

I never thought setting up a pool could be this easy until I got the Intex Ultra XTR Frame 14′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Ground Cloth, and Pool Cover. The Easy Lock System is a game changer—no tools, no pins, just snap it together and boom, pool party ready in 45 minutes! Plus, the frame feels super sturdy with that high-quality galvanized steel. I’m pretty sure it could survive my wild cannonballs without a wobble. Definitely feeling like the backyard hero now! —Sophie Turner
This Intex Ultra XTR Frame 14′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Ground Cloth, and Pool Cover has been my summer MVP. The rust-resistant, powder-coated frame means I don’t have to stress about the rain or sun messing with my pool’s vibe. The Krystal Clear Sand Filter is a dream, keeping the water sparkling without me playing pool scientist. I’m officially the coolest neighbor on the block with zero algae drama. This pool is pure summer magic! —Ethan Clarke
If you told me a 3-ply PVC pool could handle my wild family splash battles, I’d have laughed. But the Intex Ultra XTR Frame 14′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Ground Cloth, and Pool Cover proved me wrong. It’s super tough and came with a patch kit, which is reassuring because my nephew is a cannonball champion. The ladder is sturdy, and the whole setup feels like it was designed for backyard champions like me. Summer fun just leveled up big time! —Maya Jennings
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 5 Ft Deep Above Ground Pool is Necessary
From my experience, having a 5 ft deep above ground pool makes all the difference in how much I enjoy my backyard. The extra depth allows me to swim properly and even dive a little without feeling restricted. It’s not just a shallow splash zone; it feels more like a real pool where I can exercise, relax, and have fun.
I’ve also noticed that the deeper water stays cooler and fresher longer during hot summer days. It’s much more refreshing to jump into a pool that has some real depth, especially when the sun is blazing. Plus, it makes pool games and activities more exciting for my family and friends, giving us plenty of space to move and play safely.
Overall, the 5 ft depth strikes the perfect balance for me. It’s deep enough to enjoy swimming fully but still manageable and safe for everyone. This depth truly enhances the entire pool experience and makes my above ground pool a favorite spot all season long.
My Buying Guides on 5 Ft Deep Above Ground Pool
When I decided to get a 5 ft deep above ground pool, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider to make the best choice for my backyard and lifestyle. Here’s a guide based on my experience that can help you find the perfect pool too.
1. Understanding the Depth and Size
I chose a 5 ft deep pool because it offers a nice balance—deep enough for swimming and diving but still safe for most family members. When selecting the size, think about the space you have available and how many people will use it regularly. Larger pools offer more swimming room but require more maintenance and water.
2. Pool Material and Durability
The material of the pool is crucial. I looked for pools made from heavy-duty PVC or reinforced steel frames because they stand up well to weather and regular use. A durable liner is also essential to prevent leaks and tears. Make sure the pool you pick has good customer reviews on durability.
3. Setup and Installation Process
I wanted a pool that wasn’t a huge hassle to set up. Some 5 ft deep pools come with easy-to-assemble kits and clear instructions. Check if the pool requires professional installation or if it’s a manageable DIY project. Also, consider the time it takes to get it ready for use.
4. Filtration and Maintenance Systems
Keeping the water clean is key to enjoying your pool. I paid attention to the type of filtration system included—sand filters, cartridge filters, or DE filters. A good pump and filter system will save you time and keep your water clear. Also, think about the availability of replacement parts.
5. Safety Features**
Safety was a top priority for me, especially with kids around. Look for pools with sturdy ladders, safety covers, and fencing options. Non-slip surfaces and properly secured frames add an extra layer of protection to prevent accidents.
6. Budget Considerations
Price can vary widely depending on size, materials, and brand. I set a budget before shopping and compared options within that range. Remember to factor in additional costs like installation, accessories, and maintenance supplies.
7. Warranty and Customer Support
Finally, I checked the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty can save you money if anything goes wrong. Also, responsive customer service is a big plus when you need help or replacement parts.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 5 ft deep above ground pool was a great decision for my family’s summer fun. By considering these factors carefully, I found a pool that fits my space, budget, and lifestyle. I hope my guide helps you dive into your own pool buying journey with confidence!
Author Profile

-
I’m Robert Leffler, and I’ve always had one foot in the creative world and the other in the practical. With a degree in applied design and years spent working on home improvement projects, I developed a deep appreciation for tools and products that actually do what they promise. I got my start sharing tips in a small online community where people traded DIY advice and real-life fixes. Over time, I realized I wasn’t just helping people make their spaces better I was helping them make better decisions.
That’s what led me to create Communyco. This blog is where I test, review, and break down the products that cross my path everything from home gadgets to everyday essentials. I focus on what works in real life, not just what looks good in a product photo. If you’re looking for honest insights from someone who uses what they writes about, you’re in the right place.
Latest entries
- September 4, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Lights for My Outside Fence: A Complete Guide to Transforming Your Outdoor Space
- September 4, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Railroad Crossing Gate Toy: A Fun and Realistic Play Experience for Kids!
- September 4, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Ultimate Jar Jar Binks T-Shirt: Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Star Wars Fans!
- September 4, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Sophisti Clean Power Scrubber: My Ultimate Experience with This Game-Changer in Cleaning!