A private swimming pool in the garden not only makes children’s hearts beat faster. Adults who come home from work stressed out on a hot summer’s day also like to refresh themselves in the cool water.
Relaxing in the pool on a hot summer day is incomparable to any other feeling. However, building a pool isn’t always practical for residential areas where you’re thinking of space constraints, safety, and cost of construction.
Ready-made above-ground pools are therefore much better for families. Without a doubt, Intex is the market leader in above-ground pools and delivers premium products with great value for money. However, as they come in different sizes, shapes, materials, and accessories, this article will help you see which Intex pool is best for you.
How to Inflate Intex Pool?
Above-ground pools can be inflated according to the same principles as paddling pools. The difference is usually that an inflatable pool is much larger and therefore takes longer to inflate the pool.
First of all, you should check the surface on which the pool is placed for sharp-edged objects such as stones and remove them if necessary so that the material is not damaged.
For this reason, we do not recommend using mouth inflation, bicycle pump, vacuum cleaner, or hair dryer options.
You can inflate the pool quickly by using a double action pump, a foot pump, or an electric air pump. The quickest way to inflate the pool is with an electric air pump.
Top 3 Recommendations
Overall Best – Intex Rectangular Frame Above Ground Pool
Runner Up – Intex 28211EH Metal Frame Set Pool
Best Quality – Intex 28131EH Blue Round Easy Pool Set
Best Intex Pools: Our Top 10 Best Models
Now that you’ve decided to go for Intex above-ground pools, here is a selection of the 10 best Intex pool products for use by children and families.
1. Intex Rectangular Frame Above Ground Pool – Overall Best
Are you looking for a rectangular above-ground pool that is quick and easy to assemble? You are going to love this model from INTEX as it combines high quality and low price!
To begin with, the rectangular pool has a super-tough laminated liner, making the above-ground pool more resistant to scratches. Another advantage is its ease of installation. To install this, simply slip the tubes into the liner, then fill your pool with water using a garden hose.
Therefore, it is a practical pool that is robust and quick to set up. It’s ideal for the family, especially if you have a limited budget. Moreover, in terms of dimensions, the model here is 9 feet 10 inches long, 6 feet 7 inches wide, and 29.5 inches high.
Also, the pool can only contain a maximum of 800 gallons of water. Thus, your children will have all the space they dream of for a dip, under the supervision of their parents.
Pros
- Rectangular tubular pool available in multiple sizes
- Ideal for children and the family
- Easy to install
- Super easy to maintain
- Great value for money!
Cons
- No added accessories such as a filter pump
2. Intex 28211EH Metal Frame Set Pool – Runner Up
The Intex Metal Frame is a blue mini-pool, which can easily provide enough entertainment for 2 adults and 2 children at the same time. The above-ground pool has a three-ply thick liner, and the liner is made of a triple layer of anti-UV treated PVC.
The construction of these 3 layers gives the pool increased durability against tears, combined with the galvanized steel frames. It offers good stability to the pool.
One of the characteristics of these Intex above-ground pools is their ease of installation and assembly. You don’t need to arrange anything with this Intex Steel Frame swimming pool.
You just have to choose the right place (flat and not inclined), lay a bottom cover to avoid possible holes, then mount the tubes in the liner by assembling them. Then fill the pool with water with a garden hose, and you’re done.
Pros
- Ease of assembly
- Up to 1,718 gallons of water at 90% capacity
- Comes with a Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter pump
- Super-tough puncture resistant laminated PVC and galvanized steel frames
Cons
- 530GPH cartridge filter pump insufficient in terms of capacity
3. Intex 28131EH Blue Round Easy Pool Set – Best Quality
With its dimensions of 12 feet by 30 inches, this round Intex pool offers enough space for several people. No special tools or manual skills are required for assembly and disassembly, as the top ring of the pool only needs to be inflated with air.
An air pump can help with assembly, but it is not necessary. For this reason, the manufacturer has decided not to include an air pump in the scope of delivery. However, the set comes with a 110-120V filter pump.
The material is a robust film that is resistant to a wide variety of elements. The water capacity is 1485 gallons, with a recommended filling of 80 percent.
Pros
- Faster assembly and disassembly
- Good construction and robust material
- Can be installed in 10 minutes
- Ideal for pool parties
- Comes with a filter pump
Cons
- Includes no air pump
4. Intex 12′ by 30″ Metal Frame Pool Set
The Metal Frame Pool Sets are probably the most popular and durable of Intex’s swimming pool products. Made in steel and PVC, it is sturdy enough to support the agility of children.
The liner, which has a triple thickness, also reinforces the rigidity of the structure. In addition, with its large swimming surface, this equipment allows adults to take part in all the fun times.
It has a dimension of 12 feet by 30 inches for a capacity of 1718 gallons at 90% fill. The pool has a round shape, is made of steel and PVC structure, and comes with a 100-120V 530 GPH Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter pump.
Pros
- Strong metal frame swimming pool
- Can accommodate both children and adults
- With triple-layer liner
Cons
- A somewhat fragile model
5. Intex 10 Feet by 30 Inches Prism Frame Above-Ground Swimming Pool
In the range of swimming pools with an interesting quality/price ratio, there are the Intex Prism Frame pools like the Ultra Frame model. This has a round shape and is equipped with a solid liner and steel frames.
The Intex pool has a triple-layer, tear-resistant liner and a coated steel structure. Despite its large capacity of 4,485 liters, the prism frame pool doesn’t have a pool pump.
Despite the large size and weight of the pool, the assembly of the Intex Ultra Frame is almost child’s play. Doing it with an extra hand is highly recommended. Moreover, the steps are simple and appear in the instructions and the DVD included in the package.
Pros
- Powder-coated steel frame structure
- Tear-resistant polymer material
- Faster and easier to assemble with no tools required
- Comes with a video manual
Cons
- It needs a pool pump
6. Intex Mini Frame Pool Set
The Intex children’s Mini Frame Pool is a small size Intex pool that is just right for children. With the dimensions of 48″ x 48″ x 12″, there is space for one or two children, and they can let off steam and cool off. Due to the rather small size, the children’s pool can also be classified as a paddling pool.
The Intex Kids Frame Pool features four steel tubes that act as legs for the pool and hold it together. This ensures good stability.
According to the manufacturer, the children’s pool only takes 10 minutes to set up, and after the pool has been filled with water, the bathing fun can begin. It is recommended to fill the kiddie pool with a maximum of 80 to 90 percent water so that it does not lose its stability.
Pros
- Stable thanks to the tubular steel construction
- The assembly and disassembly are very easy and quick
- Durable PVC material.
Cons
- The pool is a bit small
7. INTEX 12ft x 30in Round Easy Set Pool
The Easy Set is almost the same as the Easy Pool Set we reviewed earlier. Both are of the same size – 12 feet by 30 inches. The Intex pool has a diameter of 12 feet which should accommodate a mix of 6 adults and children.
However, the inflatable pool is not so bulky as to take up a large space. The capacity of this product is 5621 liters, so it is larger than the Metal Frame earlier reviewed.
Its assembly is simple. Indeed, it is only necessary to inflate its upper flange. Then you need to fill the pool and then the pool will take shape without you having to intervene.
Two adults can install and fill it in about an hour. The included DVD installation manual makes the pool easier to set up. Then, there’s also a filter pump included with the purchase.
Pros
- Round and sturdy pool
- Easy and quick to assemble (~ 30 minutes)
- Large pool water capacity of more than 5000 liters
- Very easy to maintain
- Compatible with a whole host of INTEX pool accessories
Cons
- Requires a flat, stable, and level location
8. Intex Rectangular Ultra Frame Pool Set With Sand Filter Pump
The Intex Pool is a rectangular above-ground pool that is 24 feet long, 12 feet wide, and also available in other sizes. And frankly, all that for a ridiculously low price, compared to inground pool constructions of the same size!
But rest assured, the metal frame pool is not sold alone. It’s also supplied with a ground cloth to protect it underneath, a debris cover to protect it from all dirt and debris when necessary, a 1600 GPH sand filter pump, ensuring improved water circulation and effective pool water filtration, so that it is as clear and clean as possible.
There’s also a safety ladder for easy access to the pool, without risk of injury or damage to the sides of the pool. The pool also comes with many other additional accessories, such as shut-off valves, GFCI, DVD manual, and the deluxe maintenance kit.
In short, it’s super complete! What’s more, it all comes together really quickly, and quite easily even, because it only takes about 1 hour to put everything together. In terms of quality, it comes with a triple thickness liner and steel construction.
Pros
- Includes a cover tarpaulin, a protective ground cloth, a sand filter pump, and a safety ladder
- Quick and easy assembly (about 1 hour)
- Particularly long above ground pool
- Ideal for having swimming laps
- Ideal for the whole family and friends!
- Sturdy rust-resistant metal frame
Cons
- Nothing wrong with this pool
9. Intex Rectangular Ultra Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool (Older Model)
The Intex Ultra Frame Pool is the largest Intex pool, next after the Ultra XTR pool. The model comes in various versions and lengths and is as good as it looks.
The innovative steel frame design makes it durable, reliable, and rust-resistant. It is easy to install, and no additional tools are required to assemble the frame parts.
You will love the shape of the pool; its rectangular shape is ideal for family games and pool parties. The pool comes with a volleyball set so you and your family can have fun together as soon as the pool is set up.
Additional items include a water pump and ladder, debris cover, ground cloth, and deluxe pool maintenance kit. The 2650 GPH sand filter/saltwater system is the main problem with this pool. The pool’s saltwater system means you’ll need to backwash the filter and test the water quality regularly.
Pros
- Great new design
- Also comes with a pump
- Very long pool
- Durable steel frame structure
Cons
- Installation can take up to 2 days including leveling the ground
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do Intex pools last?
Intex branded pools last for around 5 to 10 years. Steel frame models are the most durable. If well maintained and stored for wintertime, they can last up to 15 years.
Are Bestway and Intex pools the same?
No! Intex and Bestway aren’t the same, but they have similar models. Bestway is the closest in quality and offers cheaper models, but Intex models are better off in terms of the pump quality, instructions provided, and the variety of products offered.
Can Intex pools stay up in the winter?
Leaving an Intex pool up in winter can rupture the pool liner. If you have to keep the pool full throughout winter, you have to winterize it first.
What are Intex pools made of?
Intex pools are made of various materials depending on the version. The Steel Frame pools are made of alloy metals while the Easy Set models are made of PVC materials.
Can Intex pool be set up on concrete?
An Intex pool is best set on concrete since the ground is level and flat. Make sure you lay a ground cloth underneath before installation.
What’s the biggest Intex pool?
The rectangular Ultra XTR Pool set is the biggest Intex pool. It can contain a maximum of 14,364 gallons (65,000 liters) of water, which makes it feel like a standard pool.
What pump for Intex pool?
A 1.5 horsepower pump is ideal for Intex pools under 15,000 gallons. 2,800 GPH pool pumps are often sufficient for Intex pools. However, pumps that come with the pools are not often as powerful for larger pools, so you may need to get a more powerful pump.
Which filter for Intex pool?
The INTEX Type B Filter Cartridge is suitable for Intex pools. Some pools come with the Krystal Clear Cartridge filter, which is a good fit, although the flow rate is usually low.
Tips to Choose the Right Pool – Buying Guide
You may not find a product that fits your needs perfectly by selecting one from a list of the best Intex pools. You have to know the criteria to consider so you can choose something that meets the needs of your family.
Having seen the best Intex pool products from our Intex pool reviews, in this buying guide, we will tell you everything you should know before buying an Intex garden or backyard pool.
We will first go into the different types of swimming pools, then look at the important criteria to consider when buying an Intex pool.
Types of Intex pools
There are generally two types of Intex swimming pools:
Inflatable Intex pools
Inflatable swimming pools are suitable for almost every garden. You place the product on the lawn or terrace, and you can start assembling it straight away.
The construction of inflatable swimming pools is very easy and quick. Most manufacturers state that you can start water filling within 30 minutes.
With most inflatable Intex pools, you only have to inflate the top ring, and then the water can be let in directly.
An Intex inflatable garden pool certainly cannot be used within 30 minutes unless it is a small Intex paddling pool. It may take a long time for the water to fill up.
With Intex inflatable pools, you should make sure that you do not fill them completely. Otherwise, the pool will not be stable. Also, the water will overflow when one or more people sit in the pool.
To set up an inflatable Intex pool, you need neither tools nor manual skills. Even children can set up an Intex swimming pool with the help of instruction manuals or videos.
Frame pools
Frame pools are usually slightly larger than inflatable pools and are very stable. These include Intex Steel Frame pools, Intex metal frame pools, and Intex ultra frame pools. They are excellent for multiple seasons and are preferred by many garden owners for this reason.
The advantage of these pools is that they do not need to be inflated and are very stable, thanks to the steel frame construction.
To set up an Intex frame pool, you have to assemble the tubular steel construction and then clamp in the PVC liner. Not every construction is built in the same way, but there is always the operating manual in doubt.
After the Intex Frame Pool is set up, you can already let the water in.
Material
The material of Intex garden pools is usually very high quality. Inflatable pools are usually in vinyl, rectangular frame pools in PVC and metal steel frame, while Metal and Ultra Frame pools are usually in alloy steel.
Nevertheless, you should find out about the strength of the material before making a purchase. If too thin, they can be easily punctured at the wall or floor.
The thickness of the material should be around 0.64 millimeters for the pool floor and around 0.55 millimeters for the pool walls.
In addition, the material should be able to withstand UV light. After all, an Intex pool is mostly used in the summer and is therefore constantly exposed to the sun.
Round, square, or rectangular above-ground pools?
Many Intex pools are in two shapes: rectangular and round shapes. However, there are also square models designed for children. Rectangular pools are ideal for swimming in, and round pools are for just bathing, while the square ones are not usually big enough as they’d take a lot of space if they were designed to be larger.
Size and volume
The size of an above-ground pool from Intex depends primarily on who the pool is intended for and how many people want to use it. The size of your garden must also be considered.
You should first measure the garden properly and then buy a pool that corresponds to the size. In addition to the size, the volume capacity is also important for a purchase decision. The volume or pool capacity provides information about how many liters of water can be let into the pool.
Here you have to decide whether you want to swim in the pool or just use it for splashing around. The higher the pool wall, the more water can be let in and the more freedom of movement you have.
Accessories supplied
The package can differ greatly for the various Intex pools. Inexpensive Intex pools are usually delivered without additional accessories.
More expensive Intex pools contain many accessories, such as repair patches, ground cloth, pool cover, a pool pump, or even a sand filter pump. Safety ladders may also be included.
Are Intex Pools Worth It?
INTEX brand swimming pools are among the most popular models on the market and are arguably the best above-ground pool models. They are available in several shapes and sizes that will surely adapt to the needs of young ones and adults.
You don’t need to be a professional to install the best Intex pools. In addition, the pool is always delivered with an assembly kit and very detailed instructions for use.