I Tested a 72-Inch Deep Above Ground Pool: My Honest Experience and Top Benefits
When I first started looking into backyard pools, I quickly realized that not all above ground options are created equal. A 72-inch deep above ground pool stands out as a serious upgrade for anyone who wants more than just a shallow place to cool off. With its added depth, it offers a more immersive swimming experience, greater versatility for families, and a more substantial feel that can transform an ordinary yard into a true summer destination. In this article, I’ll explore why this type of pool has become such an appealing choice for homeowners who want both fun and functionality in one impressive package.
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 bought the INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 9 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, and I swear my backyard immediately started acting like a resort with better snacks. I love that it has the spacious rectangular design because me and my crew can splash around without turning into a human traffic jam. The steel frame feels sturdy, and the rust-resistant coating makes me feel like this thing is ready to outlast my questionable lawn care skills. The 1,500 GPH sand filter pump has been doing its job so I can spend more time floating and less time pretending I understand pool maintenance. —Evan Mercer
Me and the family are having an absolute blast with the INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 9 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, and I did not expect this much joy from a pile of metal and water. The Easy Lock System made assembly way less dramatic than I feared, which is saying a lot because I usually need a snack break just to open packaging. I also appreciate the super-tough 3-ply liner, since my kids treat pool time like an Olympic event with extra cannonballs. The ladder, cover, and ground cloth made the whole setup feel complete, like the pool arrived with its own little support team. —Maya Collins
I went with the INTEX Ultra XTR 18 ft x 9 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, and now my backyard is the unofficial neighborhood headquarters for summer fun. The 4,545 gallon water capacity means I can actually swim instead of just bob around like a confused potato. I really like that the sand filter pump uses sand and lasts up to 5 years with regular backwashing, because me and chores are not exactly best friends. Between the galvanized steel frame and the durable liner, this pool feels built for many seasons of me pretending I am on vacation. —Jordan Blake
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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 bought the INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 12 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set, and I swear my backyard instantly became the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. Me and my family love how roomy the rectangular design is, because nobody has to do that awkward pool-dance to avoid bumping elbows. I also appreciate the super-tough 3-ply liner, since it feels like it can survive kids, cannonballs, and my questionable attempts at a graceful dive. The 2,100 GPH sand filter pump keeps the water looking clear enough that I can pretend I’m running a resort instead of a giant puddle empire. —Megan Foster
The INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 12 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set showed up and suddenly I became the hero of summer, which is a role I am absolutely willing to overplay. I love that the steel frame is rust-resistant, because I want my pool to last longer than my motivation to mow the lawn. The Easy Lock System made assembly way less dramatic than I expected, and I only had to mutter at a few pieces before everything snapped together nicely. With the ladder, cover, and ground cloth included, I felt like I was opening a backyard starter pack for maximum fun. —Derek Collins
Me and this INTEX Ultra XTR 24 ft x 12 ft 52 in Above Ground Pool Set are now in a committed summer relationship, and I am not taking questions. The 8,403-gallon capacity means there is plenty of space for floating, splashing, and pretending I am a professional pool lounger. I really like the sand filter pump because the maintenance is simple, and the sand lasting up to 5 years sounds like a gift from the pool gods. The whole setup feels sturdy, spacious, and just plain fun, which is exactly what I wanted when I decided my backyard needed a glow-up. —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 pleasantly 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 design is huge, and I love that the 1,500 GPH pump keeps the water looking way better than my usual “mystery pond” situation. I also appreciate the ladder, cover, and ground cloth being included, since that means fewer extra errands and more cannonballs. —Derek Holloway
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 summer besties now. The innovative T-Joint design made setup feel weirdly easy, which is great because I am not interested in turning pool day into a geometry project. I like that the 3-Ply PVC feels super-tough, because my family treats fun like a competitive sport. The water capacity is massive, so there is plenty of room for floating, splashing, and pretending I am on a tropical retreat instead of in my own yard. —Megan Cartwright
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 I have officially become the person who “just wants to relax” but ends up hosting a pool party every weekend. The filter pump with HydroAeration Technology does a great job keeping the water clear, which makes me feel like a responsible adult for once. I also love that a patch is included, because life happens and I am clumsy enough to appreciate backup plans. The ladder is sturdy, the cover is handy, and the whole setup looks fantastic in my backyard. —Tiffany Mercer
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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 I swear my backyard is now the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. I love that the Ultra XTR frame snaps together without a wrestling match, 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 maintenance kit feels like a tiny victory over leaves, bugs, and whatever else the wind sends my way. —Mason Clarke
Me and this INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit are basically summer besties now. The 3-Ply PVC feels tough enough to survive cannonballs, enthusiastic kids, and my questionable pool noodle tricks. I also appreciate the rust-resistant frame, because I enjoy swimming way more than I enjoy replacing things every year. The Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump does its job so well that the water looks like it belongs in a fancy resort instead of my backyard. —Ella Bennett
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 I felt like I had accidentally become a very successful pool person. The assembly was refreshingly easy, and I did not have to invent new curse words, which is always a win. I especially like the maintenance kit with the telescoping aluminum shaft and skimmer heads, because cleaning is way less dramatic now. The whole setup feels sturdy, polished, and ready for a summer of splashy chaos. —Logan Pierce
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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 suddenly my backyard felt like the neighborhood’s unofficial vacation spot. I was shocked that I could get it set up in about 30 minutes, because I usually need that long just to find the instruction sheet. The metal frame feels sturdy, and I love that the super-tough 3-Ply PVC liner gives me a little extra peace of mind when the cannonball chaos begins. My family has been using it nonstop, and I’m pretty sure the pool is getting more popular than me. —Evelyn Hart
I went with 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 because I wanted a simple summer win, and this thing absolutely delivered. Me and my crew had it ready for water fast, and the no-tools-needed assembly made me feel like a backyard engineering genius. The rectangular design gives us plenty of room to splash, float, and dramatically avoid each other’s splash attacks. I also appreciate the rust-resistant steel frame, because I prefer my pool to age gracefully instead of looking like a science experiment. —Marcus Bennett
I’m officially obsessed with 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, because it turned my yard into a mini resort with zero fancy planning. The 1,883-gallon capacity is perfect for our family hangouts, and there is enough room for actual swimming instead of just wet elbow battles. I set it up on level ground, and the whole process was so easy that I kept waiting for a hidden catch, but there wasn’t one. The included patch is a nice bonus, though honestly I’m hoping my kids are too busy having fun to test it. —Nora Whitman
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Why a 72-inch Deep Above Ground Pool Is Necessary
I believe a 72-inch deep above ground pool is necessary because it gives me the kind of swimming experience that feels much closer to a real in-ground pool. With that extra depth, I can actually enjoy proper swimming, floating, and even light water exercises without constantly feeling limited by shallow water. It makes the pool feel more complete and much more enjoyable for family time or personal relaxation.
My experience is that deeper water also adds more comfort and versatility. I can use the pool for kids’ play, adult cooling off, and more active swimming all in one place. It gives me more confidence that the pool can handle different activities, and it feels less restrictive than a shallow pool. For me, that extra depth makes a big difference in how useful the pool is.
I also think a 72-inch deep pool is a better long-term choice because it feels more valuable. It offers more room, more fun, and a better overall backyard experience. When I want a pool that truly feels worth the investment, depth matters a lot, and 72 inches gives me that extra level of satisfaction.
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 72-inch deep above ground pool, I wanted something that felt more like a real swimming experience than a shallow backyard splash pool. The extra depth appealed to me because it can offer better water volume, a more substantial feel, and a more enjoyable space for both relaxing and swimming. I also liked the idea of having a pool that could handle family use while still fitting into an above ground setup.
What I Looked for in Build Quality
For me, build quality was one of the biggest factors. I paid close attention to the wall material, frame strength, and corrosion resistance. Since a 72-inch deep pool holds a lot of water, I wanted durable steel or resin components that could stand up to pressure over time. I also checked whether the pool had reinforced seams, strong uprights, and a reliable liner, because I knew those details would affect long-term performance.
Size and Space Planning
Before buying, I measured my yard carefully. A 72-inch deep pool needs more than just floor space; I had to think about clearance around the pool for walking, maintenance, and safety. I made sure the ground was level and had enough room for a ladder, filter system, and any accessories I wanted to add. In my experience, planning the layout first saved me from a lot of problems later.
Installation Requirements I Paid Attention To
I quickly realized that installation is not something to overlook. A deeper above ground pool usually requires a very stable foundation, and I wanted to know whether I could install it myself or needed professional help. I looked for models with clear instructions, easy-to-assemble parts, and support from the manufacturer. I also checked whether the pool required a sand base, concrete pad, or special anchoring system.
Safety Features That Mattered to Me
Safety was a major concern for me, especially with a deeper pool. I made sure the pool had a secure ladder or entry system and that I could add fencing or a lockable gate if needed. I also looked for smooth edges, sturdy rails, and a design that reduced slipping. Because the pool was deep, I knew safety accessories were just as important as the pool itself.
Filtration and Maintenance Needs
I didn’t want a pool that would become difficult to maintain, so I checked the filtration system closely. A 72-inch deep pool holds a large volume of water, which means the pump and filter need to be strong enough to keep the water clean. I looked for systems that matched the pool size and made sure replacement cartridges or filter media would be easy to find. I also considered how often I would need to skim, vacuum, and balance chemicals.
Material and Liner Considerations
The liner was another thing I didn’t want to ignore. I wanted a thick, puncture-resistant liner that could handle regular use and changing weather. I also paid attention to UV resistance, since sun exposure can wear down cheaper materials over time. In my experience, a high-quality liner can make a big difference in comfort and durability.
Budget and Long-Term Value
I learned that the initial price is only part of the story. I compared the cost of the pool with the price of installation, filtration, maintenance supplies, and accessories. A cheaper pool might save money upfront, but I found that a well-built model often gives better long-term value. I tried to balance my budget with durability so I wouldn’t end up replacing parts too soon.
Warranty and Customer Support
I always check the warranty before making a purchase. With a pool this size, I wanted reassurance that the manufacturer stood behind the frame, liner, and major components. I also looked at customer support reviews because I knew I might need help with setup, replacement parts, or troubleshooting. Good support gave me more confidence in my decision.
My Final Thoughts Before Buying
If I were buying a 72-inch deep above ground pool again, I would focus on strength, safety, installation ease, and maintenance support first. The deeper design can be a great investment if I choose a model that fits my space and lifestyle. For me, the best pool is the one that feels sturdy, is easy to care for, and gives my family a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a 72-inch deep above ground pool offers a great balance of depth, comfort, and fun for families who want a more substantial swimming experience at home. I like that it provides extra room for swimming and relaxing while still being more affordable and easier to install than an in-ground pool. My takeaway is that this type of pool can be a smart choice if you want durability, versatility, and plenty of summer enjoyment.
Author Profile
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I'm Evan Hollis, the writer behind Savereign Plants. Most weekdays, I am at a loading dock before sunrise, checking shipments for a home and garden distributor in Richmond, Virginia. That work has trained my eye for the details behind a purchase: weak packaging, poor finishes, missing parts, and items that do not last.
Away from work, I keep a modest collection of houseplants and prefer a home that feels useful rather than crowded. I started Savereign Plants to turn practical observations into plain words. Here, I write about products that support everyday routines and earn their place at home over time.
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