In this article we’ll bring you detailed reviews of the best rectangular above ground pools. Ready to make a splash? Below you’ll find some of the best rectangular above-ground swimming pools on the market to appeal to all tastes and budgets. Let’s help you with your rectangular Pool Hunt.
A rectangular backyard pool is one of the best ways to beat the summer heat and have fun in the sun. However, you may be thinking. That sounds expensive. The good news is you don’t have to break the bank to own your own backyard pool.
Due to the surge in demand and the so the increased competition for above-ground swimming pools over the past few years, they have never been cheaper.
The rectangular above-ground pools market is filled with a variety of different types.
Some of them are saltwater-ready, some are steel-backed, some come with cleaning supplies and maintenance supplies, and others that are even designed to blend in with your outdoor furniture.
With our top picks for rectangular above-ground swimming pools, you won’t have to dig a giant hole behind your house.
Editors Choice
IMAGE | NAME | SIZE | WEIGHT | PRICE |
  | Intex Ultra XTR Rectangular Pool - Review #6 | 24ft x 12ft x 52in | 389lbs |
Runner Up
IMAGE | NAME | SIZE | WEIGHT | PRICE |
  | Intex Prism Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set - Review #3 | 16ft x 8ft x 42in | 187lbs |
Best For The Money
IMAGE | NAME | SIZE | WEIGHT | PRICE |
  | Bestway Steel Pro Rectangular Pool - Review #5 | 102in x 67in x 24in | 32lbs |
Table of Contents
The Best Rectangular Above Ground Pools Reviews
Rectangular above ground pools are incredibly popular with families who want all the advantages of an in-ground swimming pool at a fraction of the cost. The big challenge is knowing which pool is best for your needs.
We make your task much easier by doing the research and reviewing the best rectangular above ground pools. Take a look at all our recommendations:
#1. Intex Ultra Frame Rectangular Swimming Pool 32 ft. x 16 ft x 52 in
Among the best models of Intex above ground pools are the Ultra Frame models. Ultra Frame rectangular above ground pools have extra large models, durable materials, and are affordable.
The Intex Ultra Frame rectangular swimming pool is a good choice if you want a quality pool with lots of space to swim.
It comes with everything you need to get started, and unlike some of the lower end models, it has a decent pump and filter system. Changing to a larger filter system, though, will ensure that your water is cleaner and require fewer maintenance visits.
There have been some cases of Ultra Frame pools arriving with defective liners or missing parts, but for the most part, Intex has sorted that out quickly and efficiently.
This rectangular above ground pool is massive! The setup and maintenance of this swimming pool is easy, despite its size.
This stylish rectangular swimming pool from Intex is an ideal addition to large backyards.
The Intex Ultra Frame rectangular swimming pool is a good choice whether you intend to do laps, play volleyball, or have big swim parties.
Built with Intex’s most durable materials, the Ultra Frame rectangular swimming pool will last a long time. You will enjoy the Ultra Frame above-ground pool for many summers if you care for it properly and keep it clean.
Despite being a higher-end model, the Intex Ultra Frame rectangular swimming pool is a great option for those looking for their first pool or those who are looking to upgrade their small above ground pool.
FEATURES
- Includes a strong metal frame.
- Water capacity 14,364 gallons when filled 90%
- Includes a ladder for easy access.
- INTEX 2,800 GPH Sand Filter Pump included to keep your water sparkling and clean.
- Affordable.
- Pool Cover Included.
- Attractive Blue Tile Liner.
- 90 minute set up time
#2. Intex Rectangular Splash Pool 86″ x 23″
If you are looking for a kiddie pool, this one is a good option if you have kids around the age of 5-8 and it’s large enough for adults sit in as well.
A swimming pool like this is good for families with young children, but it might not be ideal for adults or families with teenagers who want a real pool.
With this Intex Rectangular Above Ground Splash Pool’s 86″ x 59″ x 23″ Liner, it is a pretty good choice for quality since it uses essentially the same materials as other Intex pools. Having the same liner material for a smaller pool means it will last much longer because it is designed for larger pools.
Intex’s other pools have very similar steel frames, making this pool durable and stable for energetic kids.
The rectangular framed pool could not be simpler to set up. It has the same design as their larger locking steel framed pools, but because of its small size, it is very easy to put together in a half hour or less.
One serious downside to this kiddie pool is that it does not have a standard pool filtration system. As a result, you’ll probably need to drain, clean, and refill this pool more often. This pool has a convenient drain at the bottom to simplify the process, but you will need to maintain it on a regular basis to keep it clean and safe for your children.
With a pool of this size, maintenance is usually pretty minimal. Since the water doesn’t have a filter or pump, it is more likely to stagnate, stirring the water is all that is necessary to keep it moving.
As well as draining and refilling the pool during the summer, the pool will need to be packed away and stored for the winter.
This kiddie pool doesn’t include a filter or other accessories, but it’s small enough that it doesn’t take up a lot of space, so we don’t count that as a disadvantage.
FEATURES
- Easy to set up in only 30 minutes and easy to pack away after use.
- Durable steel frame powder-coated for rust resistance
- Laminated Sidewalls.
- Built-in drain that can be connected to hosepipe to drain away water.
- Water capacity 439 gallons.
- Perfect for Age 6+.
- Instructional DVD included.
- It’s covered under a 30 day warranty.
#3. Intex Prism Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set
This is another great above ground pool kit, good to enjoy and make your summers cool and refreshing. It has the simplest procedure for setting it up so that you can start swimming with your family and friends in no time.
The Intex Prism Frame Above Swimming Pool Set is an excellent option for a family wanting to have plenty of fun in the sun during the summer months.
The support poles are more robust, though it is not a huge upgrade in quality over Intex’s slightly cheaper Metal Frame range. They are still a round shape, but have a more solid u-shape. A limited 1-year warranty also applies to this pool, which is much better than the 90-day return period for Metal Frame products.
Despite the fact that the liner is made from the same multi-layer PVC as most pools, it seems to be more durable in direct sunlight, which is hard on plastic over time. For greater rust resistance, the frame is powder-coated on the outside, and the supports themselves are wider than they need to be, thus increasing their structural strength.
This Prism Frame pool requires level terrain, just like all above-ground pools. It is important to note that the height listed on the packaging is from ground level to the rim: the actual depth of the pool will be about six inches less than this height. If you want to make it shallower, for example to accommodate young children who may not be able to swim yet, you can fill it with only two thirds of its capacity. For the filter pump’s suction ports to receive water, the water needs to be at that minimum depth. The bottom of the tank has a drain plug designed to fit a garden hose, making it much easier to empty than using a bucket to empty several thousand gallons of water. This pump’s fitting to the pool’s inlet port is equipped with aero-hydration technology, which is simply a way of saying that it forces air bubbles into the pool. Besides looking cool, it can also help remove excess minerals from hard water. Aside from making impurities coagulate for more efficient filtration, the bubbles are also known to release negative ions, which make the pool air more pleasant.
This pool, like most economy swimming pools, lacks a powerful pump and a large filter. To keep your pool as clear as possible, your filter needs to be cleaned and replaced with a hose every two to three weeks. It is always possible to replace the whole system with a sand filter or saltwater system if this seems like too much work for you. This Prism Frame model comes complete with a step ladder, surface cover, and ground cloth. Be sure to center the pool on the ground cloth correctly before you turn on the hose to fill it. It has less than a foot on each side to spare.
The Intex Prism Frame rectangular above ground swimming pool set comes highly recommended as a good quality first above ground rectangular pool or an upgrade from a cheap first pool.
FEATURES
- Hydro aeration technology is incorporated into the cartridge filter pump.
- Has strong, powder coated Steel Tubing.
- It Includes cartridge filter pump, ladder, ground cloth, pool cover.
- 1 Year Limited Warranty
- Convenient drain plug with standard garden hose connector for easy drainage of water.
- Water capacity at 90% is 2,873 Gallons.
- Manufactured with puncture-resistant 3 ply material.
- Size: 16ft x 8ft x 42in
#4. Intex 18ft X 9ft X 52in Ultra Frame Rectangular Pool Set
The Intex 18ft x 9ft x 52 Inch pool lets you have an amazing time with family & friends. This rectangular above ground pools set is quite spacious and engineered with durability in mind.
The ultra frame pool canmake your backyard a place to relax for the entire summer. As your family can relax and float or splash and play. The Krystal clear sand filter pump allows you to enjoy clear, sparkling water.
The Intex rectangular above ground swimming pools set comes equipped with the ground fault circuit interrupter, which is an added safety feature that shuts off the pump if electrical current reaches water.
You can fill this pool with water in as little as 60 minutes. Apart from this; it comes with an instructional DVD for easy set up. The water capacity of this pool is 4, 545 gallons at 90%..
The whole package includes a Krystal clear sand filter pump 1, 200 GPH (110 – 120V) as well as a ladder, a ground cloth, and a debris cover. Also, Super-tough laminated PVC sidewalls. A convenient drain plug that connects to a garden hose so that water can be drained away from the pool or house area.
This is a great rectangular above ground pool for families which have the necessary space to place a rectangular pool in their garden.
FEATURES
- Includes a Krystal clear sand filter pump 1, 200 GPH (110 – 120V)
- Pool holds 4,545 gallons of water at 90% capacity.
- Convenient drain plug that connects to a garden hose so water can be drained out.
- Super-tough laminated PVC sidewalls.
- Ladder, ground cloth and debris cover included.
#5.Bestway Steel Pro Rectangular Pool
The Bestway Steel Pro 102″ rectangular frame splash pool is a good size for families of small children or homes with small garden spaces.
The shallow depth of this swimming pool makes it a great option for kids who are still learning to swim. One of the best features of this rectangular pool is its quick and easy set up.
The frame of this family swimming pool is made by joining steel poles together with ‘T’ connectors and ‘C’ clips.
These hold the Bestway rectangular pool liner and tough PVC and polyester outer wall in place.
The swimming pool has a built-in flow control drain valve, which can be attached to a garden hose to fill the pool or drain it of water. Overall it’s a great pool for summer fun.
The two layers of durable PVC encase a thick layer of polyester mesh making it strong, yet lightweight. The pool’s assembly requires no tools. All you need to assemble it is right inside the box.
FEATURES
- Pool Measures 8.5 x 5.6 x 2 feet.
- Corrosion resistant steel frame.
- Easy Assembly.
- Heavy duty PVC and polyester 3-ply side walls.
- Built-in flow control drain valve
- Durable, yet lightweight
- 608 Gallon capacity at 90%
#6. Intex Ultra XTR Rectangular Pool
The Intex Ultra XTR rectangular pool is one of the best high quality rectangular above ground pools which will give you and your family many hours of enjoyment. Intex are so confident in the durability of this swimming pool that it comes with a 2 year warranty.
It is obvious why the manufacturer is so confident in their Ultra XTR line. A good place to start is with the fact that this pool’s structure locks into place in a sturdy, durable manner and doesn’t require tools or mechanical skills.
It’s easy to install an Ultra XTR pool: just push the pipes into place until you hear a click. When you need to remove the pool, simply press down the plastic push button until it releases.
A high-quality powder coating has been applied both on the external and internal surfaces of the pipes. Water tends to collect inside pool frames, which causes them to corrode from the inside out.
In addition to that, since the frame of an above-ground pool is typically expected to last longer than the plastic parts, the Ultra XTR’s liner should be 50% more resistant to normal wear and tear, including sun exposure.
Although you might still have to patch an occasional leak, that terrific 2-year warranty covers the largest, most prone to wear and tear, and the most important components of this above-ground pool..
Unsurprisingly, the Intex rectangular above ground pool isn’t the cheapest on the market. However, you do get more durability and quality for your money. The sturdy frame allows this pool to be larger and deeper than most. With a depth of 52 inches and a size of 24 feet by 12 feet, this rectangular pool set is a great choice.
Bear in mind that a pool 52 inches high will only usually be 45 inches deep, since you can’t fill it to the brim.
The Intex Ultra XTR has a sand filter instead of a cartridge filter, which makes maintenance easier. While the filter pump is adequate, you would be wise to add a surface skimmer, and you should monitor your pool’s water chemistry as well.
Keeping a pool clean will always be a chore, but at least the pump’s built-in timer will do the work for you so you don’t have to remember to turn it on and off every day.
The dimensions that are listed for this rectangular above ground pool are for its base only, as the frame extends a short distance beyond the pool’s base.
Due to the fact that this pool can withstand the elements and that you will probably have to prepare a footing for it, you should be able to leave it up year round. An additional benefit of its gray color is that it is less in your face than a bright blue.
You can also choose to collapse it for storage during winter or simply leave it erected: draining, drying, folding, and storing it in the garage will protect the liner, but many people leave them erected and covered even in freezing temperatures. Durability-wise, an Ultra XTR can’t compete with a concrete in-ground pool, but it holds up well and is considerably less expensive.
FEATURES
- Water capacity 8,403 Gallons at 90%
- Size: 24 ft x 12 ft x 52 in
- 2 Year Warranty
- Sand filter pump included that has a pump flow rate of 2,100 gallons per hour.
- Built in ground fault circuit interrupter
- Included is a pool ladder, ground cloth, pool cover and chemical maintenance kit.
- Easy Set Up
A Buying Guide 2022: Factors to Consider When Buying The Best Rectangular Above Ground Pools
Before you choose one of our recommended best rectangular above ground pools, it would be wise to first consider some factors which might help you you decide on the best swimming pool for you.
Having a rectangular above ground pool can give you and your family many hours of fun. Take a look at our list of reasons why purchasing a pool is a great idea. When choosing a swimming pool you don’t want it to be an impulsive choice which you regret down the line. With all the choices we’ve given you, it’s important that you look at the factors to consider when deciding on the best rectangular pool, which is why we’ve listed them for you. Read these carefully and you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing you’ve chosen the best rectangular pool for your needs.
Consider Your Budget
Your budget or what you can afford in monetary terms is a major factor when you are looking at purchasing rectangular above ground pools. Although rectangular above ground pools are much cheaper than in-ground swimming pools, it is important that you can afford to have a swimming pool installed on your property.
In-ground pools are likely to cost anything from $30,000 and above while you can get rectangular above ground pools for as little as $500 upwards. It’s clear that above ground swimming pools make the luxury of owning your own backyard pool accessible to more people, but it’s very important that the swimming pool you choose is within your financial budget and does not put strain on your finances.
Select The Correct Location For The Above Ground Pool
A major advantage of a rectangular above ground pool is it’s portability. You are able to assemble your above ground pool in the location that is ideal for you and your family.
It’s a good idea to measure the area of the place where you’re thinking of setting up the above ground pool. Look at dimensions of the pool, including any accessories such as ladders, pumps and supporting frames and ensure that the space is sufficient so that you can still move around the pool freely too.
You should make sure that you consider safety, obstacles and available space when you choose your pool. When setting up your above ground pool it’s important that there is at least three to five feet distance between the pool and any obstacles.
It’s also not recommended that you set up your rectangular above ground pool on uneven surfaces, dry wells, septic tanks, tree stumps or dry roots.
Consider The Types Of Rectangular Above Ground Pools
It’s important to decide what type of rectangular above ground pool to buy. There are several types on the market today, but the three most common types are steel, aluminum and resin pools. Lets briefly look at them so you decide which type is best for you.
Steel Rectangular Above Ground Pools
Steel framed rectangular above ground pools are strong, but are prone to rust which is why they are more cost effective than other types of pools. Although the better quality steel frames pools are galvanized to help prevent rust, it is still a aproblem with this type of above ground pool.
Aluminum Rectangular Above Ground Pools
Because of their capacity to withstand harsh weather, aluminum pools have grown in popularity over the previous 10 to 15 years. When aluminum is exposed to air, it forms a strong, transparent layer of aluminum oxide, which aids in corrosion resistance. Aluminum has a high strength-to-weight ratio and does not tarnish or rust. It also becomes tougher and stronger as the temperature drops. Depending on the model, aluminum pools will survive 2 to 3 times as long as steel pools.
Decide Where To Buy Your Rectangular Above Ground Pools
Where you buy your above ground pool depends on you and your requirements. You could go down to your nearby store and buy what’s available. However, we recommend you purchase your rectangular above ground pools online for a couple of reasons.
Firstly, transporting and moving a huge package which contains the above ground pool to your home can be a big hassle. Purchasing online means that the above ground pool that you purchase is delivered to your home, removing that hassle. Most vendors also offer free shipping.
Secondly, large online retailers such as Amazon have a much larger variety of products available to choose compared to traditional bricks and mortar stores. This gives you a much wider variety to choose from.
What Pump And Filtration System Do You Need?
Your above ground pool’s pump is key to keeping your water healthy as it circulates it through your filter and chlorinator. You can get cloudy, green, and nasty pool water if you choose the wrong pump. Choosing the correct size pool pump and filter based on the volume of water in your swimming pool is very important.
Choose The Best Sanitizer For Your Pool
In a swimming pool, sanitizers clean and sanitize the water so that it’s safe for swimming. It accomplishes this by eliminating harmful pathogens that cause swimmers to become ill. Additionally, it prevents algae from growing in the pool.
Pool chlorine is the most commonly used swimming pool sanitizers. These include pool chlorine tablets, pool granular chlorine and pool liquid chorine. Saltwater chlorinators are another option. They turn salt into chlorine for your pool, but aren’t recommended for pools with vinyl liners with metal frames due to the threat of corrosion.
Entering And Exiting Rectangular Above Ground Pools
Another very important factor that is often overlooked is how you get in and out of your rectangular above ground pool. Before you choose your swimming pool it’s important to establish if it comes with ladders or pool entry systems.
Ladders are especially important if your children are going to be using the pool. There are various types of swimming pool ladders available for above ground swimming pools, so make sure that you get one that is suitable for the whole family..
Cleaning Your Swimming Pool
Pool filters alone can’t remove debris, leaves, and any other large articles that may have fallen into your pool, so you will need to actually remove those objects yourself using a pool net.
If you do not love manual labor you can make use of a pool cleaner. There are three different types of cleaner: robotic, pressure and suction. Decide what is best for you and your pocket.
ADVANTAGES OF RECTANGULAR ABOVE GROUND POOLS
We have given you plenty information regarding rectangular above ground pools, including recommendations, features and what to consider when choosing rectangular above ground pools.
When deciding whether a rectangular above ground pool is right for you and your family, it’s important to understand the advantages that owning this type of swimming pool might be for you. Let’s look at the most important advantages to owning the rectangular above ground pools:
Affordabilty
In-ground swimming pools cost many thousands of dollars due to the highly labor intensive process of digging a hole for the pool and all the work that’s needed to build an in-ground pool. A rectangular above ground pool costs a fraction of the price of an in-ground pool which makes it a much more affordable option for families who want to experience the joy of owning their own swimming pool.
Easy To Install
An in-ground pool needs professionals to build them, whereas rectangular above ground pools is relatively easy to set up and install in your backyard. It can take as little as a few hours to set up the swimming pool. In-ground swimming pools can take weeks and even months to finish construction of the pool.
Lifestyle
A rectangular above ground pool gives you a taste of the lifestyle that owning a swimming pool offers you and your family before you invest thousands of dollars having an in-ground pool built. This also allows you the opportunity to live the swimming pool lifestyle and decide whether maintaining a swimming pool is worth the effort and, based on the weather, whether you and your family get’s enough time enjoying the swimming pool
Maintenance
Rectangular above ground pools generally require much less maintenance than a rectangular in-ground pool due the fact that they are usually smaller and therefor contain less water to keep clean and tidy. This mean that it requires less labor from you, less chlorine and less electricity to run a smaller pump and filtration system.
RECTANGULAR ABOVE GROUND POOLS VS ROUND ABOVE GROUND POOLS
The shape of your pool is one of the most important considerations. Rectangular and rounded shapes are the most common. When choosing between the two, consider the following:
What’s The Purpose Of The Pool?
The first consideration when you’re deciding whether a round or rectangular above ground pool is best for you it what the pool will be used for most.
Swimming on hot days and lounging in a pool are popular activities for some. Others want to swim laps in the pool and get a good workout. You should choose the shape of your new pool based on how you intend to use it.
Since you can swim in a straight line in a long, rectangular pool, it is ideal for laps. Having a rounded pool would be more suitable for relaxing and swimming recreationally. Swimming laps in round pools is usually difficult due to the lack of a straight path.
What Size Would You Like Your Pool to be?
Rectangular and round pools occupy different amounts of space. Having a circular or rounded pool will take up less space in the landscape, but it won’t be as spacious inside. It takes off a little more room because of all those rounded edges. Depending on what you want, this can be good or bad.In contrast, a rectangular pool occupies more space in the landscape due to its full form. In exchange for more space inside your pool, you will also lose yard space. Keep this in mind when choosing the shape of your pool.
How Will A Pool Impact The Existing Landscape?
Ideally, you do not want to destroy or relocate the existing landscaping in your yard. If possible, consider fitting the pool into the existing area. In light of the fact that rectangular pools tend to occupy more space and have more rigid lines, it’s likely that a rounded pool would be better for you if this was indeed a problem.
On the other hand, if you have a fairly open yard with little landscaping, you can choose whatever shape you like and make the landscaping fit around it. You should consider the shape of your pool when designing your landscape even if you don’t have it yet.
Do You Want A Pool Cover For Your Pool?
Maintaining your pool and keeping it clean can be much easier with a pool cover. A cover can be made for any shape of pool, but some shapes are easier to cover than others. A rectangular pool, for example, can have an automatic pool cover that makes it easy to add and remove.ion.
What Is Your Budget?
Round pools tend to be smaller and less complicated to assemble, install and maintain than rectangular above ground pools. This factor needs to be considered when deciding which of the two shapes are better for you and your family.
What Do You Like?
Personal taste is a very important consideration in deciding the shape of your pool. Does the traditional, rectangular shape appeal to you? Is the round pool shape more to your liking?
CONCLUSION
It’s time to wrap up after discussing so much about the best rectangular above ground swimming pools. Every pool on our list that we reviewed has strengths and it’s up to you to decide which of the strengths matter to you most.
If you are hoping to get a quality, yet cheap rectangular above ground pool, then our top choice is the Intex 18ft x 9ft x 52inches Ultra Frame Rectangular Pool Set with sand filter pump, ladder, ground cloth and pool cover.
Our focus, with this article, is to help you decide on the best rectangular above ground pool to help you cool down in summer. To help you feel refreshed in the water of your own backyard swimming pool. Having an above ground swimming pool is easier and cheaper than you might think. We have taken the hassle out of choosing the best rectangular above ground pool by spending hours researching the available swimming pools and giving you the best options for every type of above ground pool buyer.
Above are reviews of the best rectangular above ground pools so that you have the information at hand to make an informed decision on the best choice for your and your family’s needs.