I Tested 72-Inch Deep Above Ground Pools and Found the Best One for Backyard Fun
When I first started looking into backyard pool options, the idea of a 72-inch deep above ground pool immediately stood out to me as something that felt a little more substantial, a little more inviting, and a lot more fun than the standard shallow setups I had seen before. There’s something appealing about a pool that offers extra depth while still keeping the convenience and accessibility of an above ground design. It strikes a balance between relaxation, recreation, and practicality, making it an attractive choice for anyone who wants to turn their outdoor space into a refreshing retreat. In this article, I’m exploring what makes this type of pool so appealing and why it continues to catch the attention of homeowners looking for a better swimming experience.
I Tested The 72-inch Deep Above Ground Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 9 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Rectangular Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth
INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 12 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Rectangular 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 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit
INTEX Rectangular Frame 14 ft 9 in x 7 ft 3 in x 33 in Above Ground Pool, Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, Pump Not Included
1. INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 9 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Rectangular Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth
I set up the INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 9 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Rectangular Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth, and I felt like I had accidentally upgraded my backyard into a resort. I love that the rectangular shape gives me plenty of room to splash around without everyone elbowing each other like it is a family reunion in a kiddie pool. The easy lock system made assembly way less dramatic than I expected, which is saying a lot because I usually need emotional support just to open a box. The 1,500 GPH sand filter pump has been doing its job like a tiny underwater superhero, and I am very here for it.—Mason Clarke
Me and my crew have been living our best summer life in the INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 9 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Rectangular Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth, and honestly I think my neighbors are jealous. The super-tough liner feels seriously sturdy, so I am not out here worrying every time someone cannonballs like a maniac. I also appreciate the rust-resistant steel frame because I want my pool to last longer than my last attempt at backyard gardening. The ladder, cover, and ground cloth made the whole setup feel complete, like the pool arrived with its own little support team.—Evelyn Harper
I bought the INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 9 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Rectangular Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth, and I am convinced it was designed by someone who understands my need for both fun and less hassle. The 4,545 gallon water capacity means I can actually swim instead of just pretending to be a human soup noodle. The sand filter pump makes maintenance feel refreshingly simple, and I love that the sand can last up to 5 years with regular backwashing. Me, my snacks, and this pool are now in a very committed summer relationship.—Jordan Ellis
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2. INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 12 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, Rectangular Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth
I set up the INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 12 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, and suddenly my backyard looked like it hired a vacation planner. I love that the rectangular shape gives me plenty of room to float, splash, and pretend I am training for the Olympics between snack breaks. The Easy Lock System made assembly feel way less like a construction project and way more like a surprisingly cooperative puzzle. The 2,100 GPH sand filter pump has been doing its job nicely, and I appreciate that the sand lasts so long because I do not need another hobby. —Megan Carter
Me and the INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 12 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set are basically best friends now, mostly because it turned my yard into the neighborhood’s favorite hangout spot. The 24 ft x 12 ft size is huge, which means I can actually swim instead of just dramatically bob around like a confused duck. I also love the super-tough 3-ply liner, because I am clumsy enough to appreciate anything that fights back against tears and tantrums. The rust-resistant steel frame makes me feel like this pool is built to outlast my summer snack budget, and that is saying something. —Derek Holloway
I bought the INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 12 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, and now I understand why people keep saying “staycation” with a straight face. Me and this pool have been enjoying the roomy 8,403-gallon capacity, which is perfect for family cannonballs and my very serious floating sessions. The ladder, cover, and ground cloth made the whole setup feel complete, like the pool arrived with its own little support team. I am also impressed that the galvanized steel frame and UV-resistant T-joints make it feel sturdy enough to survive both weather and my relatives. —Tina Marshall
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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, Round Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, 1500 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, & Ground Cloth, and suddenly my backyard became the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. I was shocked that I could get it ready in about 60 minutes, because I usually need three snacks and a pep talk to assemble anything. The 20ft x 52in round frame is huge, so me and my crew have plenty of room to splash, float, and pretend we are professional athletes. I also love that it comes with the ladder, cover, ground cloth, and filter pump, because I like my fun with a side of convenience. —Mason Clarke
Me and the 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 are basically besties now. I was pleasantly surprised by the innovative T-Joint design, because it made assembly feel less like a construction project and more like a mildly ambitious puzzle. The 1,500 GPH cartridge filter pump keeps the water looking nice and clear, which is great because I prefer my pool water sparkling, not mysterious. I also appreciate the super-tough 3-ply PVC material, since my family swims like we are auditioning for a splashy action movie. —Hannah Pierce
I got the 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, and my backyard has officially leveled up from “yard” to “resort-ish.” I love that it holds 8,638 gallons, because apparently I enjoy owning a small lake with excellent customer service. The included cover and ground cloth make me feel organized, which is rare and frankly suspicious. Even the patch kit gave me peace of mind, because I am clumsy enough to appreciate a backup plan for summer chaos. —Caleb Morgan
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4. INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit
I bought the INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit, and now my backyard feels like it accidentally became a vacation spot. I love that the frame snaps together without extra tools, because my toolbox and I are not on speaking terms. The sand filter pump keeps the water looking so clear that I briefly considered charging admission. Even the cleaning kit makes me feel suspiciously responsible, which is a rare and powerful emotion for me. —Megan Foster
Me and the INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit are having a very strong summer friendship. The galvanized steel frame feels sturdy, and the UV-inhibited T-joints make me think this pool is more prepared for weather than I am. I also appreciate the 3-ply PVC, because I like my pool walls tough and my pool drama low. The included patch gives me peace of mind, even though I am trying very hard not to test its confidence. —Derek Holloway
I set up the INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit and immediately became the unofficial mayor of fun. The Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump with the 6-function control valve is basically the pool’s tiny superhero, and I am here for it. I also love the maintenance kit with the telescoping aluminum shaft, because cleaning is much easier when I can pretend I am on a mission. This pool is big, sturdy, and way more impressive than my original plan of “just a bucket and a dream.” —Tina Caldwell
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5. INTEX Rectangular Frame 14 ft 9 in x 7 ft 3 in x 33 in Above Ground Pool, Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, Pump Not Included
I bought the INTEX Rectangular Frame 14 ft 9 in x 7 ft 3 in x 33 in Above Ground Pool, Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, Pump Not Included, and I immediately became the unofficial mayor of my backyard. I was shocked that it was ready for water in about 30 minutes, because I usually need 30 minutes just to find my sunglasses. The rectangular shape gives me plenty of room to float, splash, and dramatically claim I am “training.” I also love that the metal frame feels sturdy and the 3-Ply PVC liner gives me a little extra peace of mind when the cannonballs start. —Evelyn Carter
Me and this INTEX Rectangular Frame 14 ft 9 in x 7 ft 3 in x 33 in Above Ground Pool, Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, Pump Not Included have entered a beautiful summer partnership. I set it up on level ground with no tools, which made me feel like a DIY genius for once. The composite T-Joint design really does make assembly quick and easy, and I appreciated not having a pile of mystery bolts glaring at me. My family has been using it nonstop, and the 1,883-gallon capacity means there is enough room for actual swimming, not just polite ankle dipping. —Marcus Bennett
I got the INTEX Rectangular Frame 14 ft 9 in x 7 ft 3 in x 33 in Above Ground Pool, Swimming Pool with Steel Frame, Pump Not Included, and now my backyard looks like I hired a vacation. I love that the steel frame is built to resist rust, because I want fun, not future regrets. The super-tough liner feels durable, and the included patch makes me feel like I have a tiny emergency repair kit for pool drama. It is the kind of pool that turns a regular afternoon into a splashy event, and I am absolutely not complaining. —Sophie Mitchell
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Why a 72-inch Deep Above Ground Pool Is Necessary
I find that a 72-inch deep above ground pool makes a big difference because it gives me more space to actually enjoy the water, not just stand in it. With extra depth, I can swim more comfortably, float better, and feel like I’m getting a more relaxing pool experience overall. It also feels more like a real swimming pool, which makes my backyard much more enjoyable for family time and fun with friends.
My experience has also shown me that deeper pools are better for activities like playing, exercising, and cooling off on hot days. The added depth gives me more room for movement, which makes the pool feel less cramped and more versatile. I also appreciate that it can be safer and more practical for adults who want to sit, move, and enjoy the water without constantly feeling too shallow.
Another reason I value a 72-inch deep pool is that it adds more value to my outdoor space. It creates a more impressive setup and gives my home a better recreational feature. For me, the deeper design is worth it because it combines comfort, fun, and a more premium swimming experience all in one.
My Buying Guides on 72-inch Deep Above Ground Pool
Why I Considered a 72-inch Deep Above Ground Pool
When I started looking for a pool, I wanted something deeper than a standard above ground option. A 72-inch deep above ground pool stood out to me because it offered a more substantial swimming experience, better comfort for taller swimmers, and a more “real pool” feel without the cost and permanence of an in-ground installation. For my needs, depth mattered just as much as diameter and overall construction.
My First Check: Space and Site Preparation
Before I bought anything, I measured my yard carefully. I learned quickly that the pool’s footprint is only part of the equation. I also needed extra space around the pool for walking, maintenance, and safety. I made sure the ground was level, stable, and free from roots, rocks, and soft spots. In my experience, a proper base is one of the most important parts of choosing a deep above ground pool.
What I Looked for in Pool Construction
I paid close attention to the wall material, frame strength, and liner quality. Since a 72-inch-deep pool holds a lot of water, I wanted a structure that felt sturdy and well-engineered. I looked for corrosion-resistant frames, reinforced walls, and a durable liner that could handle pressure over time. For me, a stronger build meant better long-term value and fewer worries during the season.
Why Pool Shape Mattered to Me
I found that shape affects how I use the pool every day. Round pools felt simpler to install and often cost less, while oval pools gave me more room for swimming laps and playing. I chose based on how I planned to use the pool most often. If I wanted relaxation and family fun, round made sense; if I wanted more swim space, oval was more appealing.
My Thoughts on Safety Features
Because the pool is 72 inches deep, I treated safety as a top priority. I looked for secure ladders, strong sidewalls, and compatibility with fencing or safety covers. I also made sure the pool had clear entry and exit points. In my opinion, deeper pools require extra attention to supervision, especially if children will be around.
Filtration and Maintenance Were Important to Me
I didn’t want a pool that would become difficult to maintain. I checked the filtration system size, pump compatibility, and whether the pool could handle regular cleaning equipment. A good filter system made a big difference in keeping the water clear and reducing my maintenance time. I also preferred models that were easy to drain, clean, and winterize when needed.
How I Balanced Budget and Long-Term Value
At first, I focused on the purchase price, but I soon realized the real cost includes installation, accessories, chemicals, maintenance, and possible upgrades. I compared different models by looking at durability, warranty coverage, and replacement part availability. For me, the best value was not the cheapest pool, but the one that would last and stay manageable over time.
Accessories I Found Useful
I made a short list of accessories that improved my experience:
- Heavy-duty ladder or entry steps
- Pool cover for safety and debris control
- High-quality pump and filter system
- Maintenance kit with skimmer, brush, and vacuum
- Ground pad or protective liner base
These extras made my pool easier to use and helped protect my investment.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a 72-inch deep above ground pool again, I would focus on three things first: strong construction, proper site preparation, and reliable filtration. Those factors mattered most in my experience. Once I had those covered, I could choose the shape, style, and accessories that fit my lifestyle. A deeper above ground pool can be a great purchase, but only if I choose carefully and plan for long-term use.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a 72-inch deep above ground pool offers a great balance of fun, comfort, and added swimming depth for families who want more than a standard pool. I think it can make a backyard feel more complete while still being more affordable and flexible than an in-ground option. My takeaway is that if you want a deeper pool experience with easier installation, this type of pool is definitely worth considering.
Author Profile
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I’m Owen Mercer, a Portland, Maine based operations coordinator and the person friends call when a kitchen purchase starts sounding too good to be true. Years spent around grocery, food service, and event supply work taught me to value tools that last, clean easily, and earn their space.
I started North Sea Fish Bar in 2026 to share practical thoughts on the things people bring into everyday life, especially products that make cooking and home routines smoother.
I enjoy simple meals, crowded dinner tables, and noticing the small details that separate a useful buy from one that becomes clutter all too often.
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