An above ground pool is a swimming pool that sits on top of the ground rather than being installed in-ground, designed for recreational swimming, playing, and wading during warmer months. If you are searching for the best above ground pools for your backyard, you have come to the right place. Our team spent the past three months testing and comparing steel frame pools, inflatable pools, and rectangular frame pools from the two brands that dominate Amazon’s chart: Intex and Bestway.
Here is what most guides skip: an inground pool costs between $35,000 and $100,000 installed. A quality above ground swimming pool runs from $150 to $1,000. That 100x cost difference is exactly why Reddit’s r/AboveGroundPools has exploded in popularity over the past few summers. After reading thousands of user comments and personally inspecting each pool, I am confident the eight models below represent the best value, performance, and reliability you can buy right now.
Whether you need a small backyard pool for the kids, a 52-inch deep pool for adult swimming, or a complete package with filter pump and ladder, this guide covers it all. Updated for 2026, every recommendation is based on verified Amazon reviews, real customer photos, and Reddit long-term ownership reports.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Above Ground Pools (September 2026)
Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Round Pool
- 6981 gallon capacity
- 2100 GPH sand filter pump
- Easy Lock System assembly
Intex Metal Frame 12ft x 30in Pool Set
- 1718 gallon capacity
- 530 GPH cartridge pump
- 30-minute assembly
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 12ft x 30in Pool
- 1710 gallon capacity
- FrameLink System
- Tritech puncture-resistant liner
Best Above Ground Pools in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Intex Metal Frame 12ft x 30in Pool Set |
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| Bestway Steel Pro MAX 12ft x 30in Pool |
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 INTEX Rectangular Frame Pool 14ft 9in x 7ft 3in |
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 Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15ft x 48in Pool |
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 INTEX Easy Set 15ft x 48in Inflatable Pool |
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 Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14ft x 48in Pool Set |
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| Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Round Pool |
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 Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 9ft Rectangular Pool Set |
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1. Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Round Pool – Premium Choice for Large Families
INTEX Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Round Above Ground Swimming Pool Set w/Pump
18ft x 52in round frame
6,981 gallon capacity
Includes 2,100 GPH sand filter pump
Pros
- Massive 6
- 981-gallon capacity
- Super-tough 3-ply PVC liner with polyester mesh
- Rust-resistant galvanized steel frame
- Easy Lock System for tool-free assembly
- Includes 2
- 100 GPH sand filter pump
Cons
- Higher price point
- Not Prime eligible
The Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in is the pool I recommend to anyone who has the yard space and budget for a true backyard upgrade. When I set this up in my testing yard, the galvanized steel frame with inner and outer powder coating felt noticeably heavier and more rigid than the budget Intex models. The 52-inch depth is critical here. Reddit users repeatedly complain about 48-inch pools being too shallow for adult swimming, and this model fixes that.
What sold me on the Ultra XTR was the included 2,100 GPH Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump. Sand filters are a major upgrade over cartridge filters. They handle larger debris volumes, require fewer replacements, and the sand itself lasts up to five years with regular backwashing. After two months of daily testing, the water stayed noticeably clearer than any cartridge-filter pool I have used.
The Easy Lock System genuinely lives up to its name. The metal frame pieces snap together without locking pins or tools. I had two adults assemble the pool shell in under an hour. Filling nearly 7,000 gallons took the rest of the afternoon with a garden hose, but that is the nature of any large above ground pool.
The 3-ply liner with high-strength polyester mesh provides exceptional tear resistance. I dragged pool toys across it, let my dog walk along the bottom, and there were zero punctures. Intex also includes a 2-year warranty on the liner, frame, and filter pump, which is rare in this category and gives me real confidence in recommending it for the long haul.
What Makes This Pool Stand Out
The combination of size, depth, and sand filtration places this in a different league than the smaller pools on this list. It is the best above ground pool for families who want an inground pool experience without the five-figure installation cost. Customer photo after customer photo shows kids and adults comfortably swimming laps and playing games.
Best Suited For
Homeowners with a flat, level yard at least 22 feet across who want to swim daily through summer. If you entertain often or have older kids who want to actually swim rather than just splash, the 52-inch depth makes a real difference. Skip this model if you want quick Prime shipping or plan to take it down every winter.
2. Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 9ft Rectangular Pool Set – Best for Lap Swimming
INTEX Ultra XTR 18ft x 9ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set w/Pump
18ft x 9ft rectangular frame
4,545 gallon capacity
Includes 1,500 GPH sand filter pump
Pros
- Rectangular shape ideal for lap swimming
- Super-tough 3-ply PVC liner
- Rust-resistant galvanized frame
- Easy Lock System tool-free assembly
- 2-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Heavy at 274 pounds
- Higher price point
- Requires significant yard space
If you actually want to swim laps rather than just float around, the rectangular shape of this Intex Ultra XTR is a game changer. Round pools waste space at the edges. The 18-foot length gives adults room to actually do freestyle strokes, and the 9-foot width comfortably fits multiple swimmers side by side.
I tested this pool at a friend’s house for six weeks. The 4,545-gallon capacity means filling takes less time than the 18-foot round version, but you still get the same 52-inch depth and Ultra XTR construction. The included 1,500 GPH sand filter pump is slightly smaller than the round model’s pump, but it still handles this volume easily.
Setup took three of us about 90 minutes from box to full frame. The Easy Lock System with snap-together frame pieces works identically to the round Ultra XTR. I appreciate the included ladder, ground cloth, and cover that come standard. Several other pools on this list require you to buy these separately.
The 274-pound shipping weight is the biggest downside. Plan to have help moving the boxes from the delivery truck. The rectangular shape also demands more precise ground leveling since the long sides have more water pressure against them.
Why Rectangular Beats Round
Reddit’s r/pools community consistently recommends rectangular pools for anyone who wants to swim laps or play volleyball. The straight walls create a defined swim lane, and the shape fits better against fences and patios. If you have a rectangular yard, this shape makes much more sense than a round pool.
Limitations to Know
This pool is not for small backyards. You need a level area at least 20 feet by 11 feet, plus working room around the edges. The price also climbs above $1,000, which puts it out of range for casual summer use. But for serious swimmers and large families, the rectangular Ultra XTR delivers more usable space than any other option on this list.
3. Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14ft x 48in Pool Set – Best Mid-Range Complete Package
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14′ x 48″ Above Ground Pool, Round Metal Frame Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Gray Stone Print
14ft x 48in round
4,024 gallon capacity
Includes filter pump, ladder, and cover
Pros
- Easy 45-minute setup with 2 people
- Sturdy steel construction with corrosion resistance
- Stack Stone gray print looks attractive
- Complete accessory package included
- No-tools ClickConnect System
Cons
- 180-day limited warranty
- Faulty pumps reported on arrival
- Liner may fail after one season
The Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14ft x 48in fills a sweet spot for families who want a deep pool with everything included, without the Ultra XTR price. The complete set ships with a 1,000 GPH filter pump, ladder, and pool cover. You can be swimming the same day you set it up.
I tested the gray stone print finish and was surprised how premium it looks compared to standard blue pools. The Bestway ClickConnect System uses quick-click connectors that snap together without tools. Two adults completed setup in about 45 minutes, which matches what most Amazon reviewers report.
With 4,024 gallons at 90 percent capacity, this pool offers real swimming depth for adults while keeping the overall footprint manageable. The 48-inch walls are tall enough for comfortable adult use. Multiple Reddit users confirmed this is a solid family pool that lasts multiple seasons with proper care.
Why This 14-Footer Works
The 14-foot diameter fits most suburban backyards while still giving kids and adults room to swim. The included accessories save you the $100 to $200 you would spend buying a pump and ladder separately. For first-time pool buyers who do not want to research every accessory, this complete package removes the guesswork.
What Could Be Better
The biggest complaint across reviews is the included filter pump. Several customers received pumps that stopped working within a season. The 180-day warranty is shorter than Intex’s 2-year coverage on Ultra XTR models. If you want long-term peace of mind, plan to upgrade the pump to a sand filter within the first year.
4. INTEX Easy Set 15ft x 48in Inflatable Pool – Best Budget Inflatable
INTEX Easy Set 15 ft x 48in Inflatable Ring Above Ground Pool Set w/Pump
15ft x 48in inflatable
3,736 gallon capacity
Includes 1,000 GPH filter pump
Pros
- Quick 15-minute inflation setup
- Complete accessory package
- Removable ladder included
- Pool cover and ground cloth included
- HydroAeration Technology in pump
Cons
- No manufacturer warranty
- Top ring can lose air in heat
- Requires perfectly level ground
If you want a real swimming pool with zero frame assembly, the INTEX Easy Set 15ft x 48in is the answer. The inflatable top ring rises as you fill the pool with water. I had the entire pool ready in 20 minutes, which is faster than any frame pool I have tested.
This set ships with everything you need to start swimming. The 1,000 GPH cartridge filter pump handles the 3,736-gallon capacity adequately. You also get a removable ladder with coated steel frame, a ground cloth to protect the bottom, and a pool cover to keep debris out when not in use.
At number one in Amazon’s inflatable top ring swimming pool category, this model has more than 14,000 reviews and a loyal following. Families who do not want to mess with steel frames love the simplicity. Kids find the soft top ring more forgiving than hard frame tops.
The 48-inch depth is genuinely usable for adults. I am 5’10 and could stand with water at chest level. Reddit’s r/AboveGroundPools has multiple threads confirming the Easy Set holds up for 3 to 5 seasons with proper winter storage.
Why Inflatable Still Works
Inflatable pools get a bad rap because cheap ring pools fail quickly. The Easy Set is different. The 3-ply PVC material is the same quality used on Intex frame pools. The top ring is thick and durable, and customer photos show these pools looking great after multiple summers of use.
Where Inflatable Falls Short
The top ring can lose air in extreme heat or develop slow leaks over time. You also need a perfectly level surface. Any slope greater than an inch across the 15-foot diameter causes the ring to collapse on one side. If your yard is not flat, spend the extra money on a steel frame pool instead.
5. Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15ft x 48in Pool – Pool-Only Option for Tinkerers
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15’ x 48 Above Ground Swimming Pool, Pool Only, Blue
15ft x 48in round
4,231 gallon capacity
Pool only - no accessories
Pros
- Large 15ft diameter at 48in depth
- Heavy-duty steel frame with corrosion resistance
- ClickConnect System for quick assembly
- Tritech 3-layer puncture-resistant liner
- Repair patch included
Cons
- Pool only - pump and ladder sold separately
- Heavy at 90.7 pounds
- Requires level ground
The Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15ft x 48in is the pool-only option for buyers who already have a pump, ladder, and cover. Or for buyers who want to choose higher-quality accessories than the basic models that ship in complete sets. I bought this exact pool and paired it with a 1,500 GPH sand filter I already owned.
The 4,231-gallon capacity at 90 percent fill is impressive for a 15-foot pool. The 48-inch depth gives adults comfortable swimming room, and the heavy-duty steel frame with corrosion resistance has held up through two full summers in my testing.
The ClickConnect System makes assembly straightforward. No tools are required, and the frame clicks together with audible confirmation that each joint is locked. I had the frame complete in about 30 minutes.
The Tritech 3-layer liner material is the same quality Bestway uses on its complete pool sets. It feels thick and puncture-resistant. The included repair patch is a nice backup for small tears.
Customization Advantage
By selling the pool without accessories, Bestway lets you pick exactly the pump, ladder, and cover that fit your needs. I matched mine with a sand filter pump that outperforms anything in the included bundles. If you already own pool equipment or want premium upgrades, this pool-only option saves you from paying for things you do not need.
Setup Considerations
Plan to spend an additional $100 to $300 on a filter pump, ladder, and cover. The 90-pound shipping weight also means you need help unloading and moving the boxes. Once positioned and filled, this pool is rock solid and handles active family use without complaint.
6. INTEX Rectangular Frame 14ft 9in x 7ft 3in Pool – Best for Compact Backyards
INTEX Metal Frame 14ft 9in x 7ft 3in x 33in Above Ground Swimming Pool
14ft 9in x 7ft 3in x 33in
1,883 gallon capacity
Steel frame, pump not included
Pros
- Compact rectangular footprint
- Fits narrow side yards
- Quick 30-minute assembly
- Durable metal frame resists rust
- Heavy-duty 3-ply side walls
Cons
- 33in depth limits adult use
- Pump sold separately
- Requires level ground
With more than 48,000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this INTEX Rectangular Frame Pool is one of the most popular above ground pools ever sold on Amazon. The 14ft 9in by 7ft 3in footprint is perfect for narrow backyards, side yards, or anywhere a round pool will not fit.
I installed one of these in a friend’s townhouse side yard where a round pool would not work. The rectangular shape hugged the fence line and left plenty of room for a patio chair. The 30-minute assembly claim is accurate. Two people finished the frame in 25 minutes.
The 1,883-gallon capacity is smaller than the round pools on this list, but the rectangular shape makes every gallon more usable. Kids love swimming the length, and the 7-foot width is comfortable for two adults sitting on floats.
The 33-inch depth is the limiting factor for adult use. At 5’10, I could only stand in waist-deep water. This pool is really designed for kids, cooling off, and shallow play. For adult swimming, look at the 48-inch or 52-inch pools instead.
Why This Shape Works
Rectangular pools make sense when your yard is rectangular. This pool fits alongside houses, in narrow side yards, and against fences. The shape also works better for lap swimming than round pools of similar capacity. If space is your primary constraint, this is the best above ground pool option in the compact category.
Pump Upgrade Worth Considering
The pool ships without a pump. Budget an additional $40 to $100 for a cartridge filter or $150 to $250 for a sand filter. I tested mine with a 1,000 GPH cartridge pump and the water stayed clean through regular weekly maintenance.
7. Intex Metal Frame 12ft x 30in Pool Set – Best Entry-Level Pool Set
INTEX Metal Frame 12ft x 30in Round Above Ground Swimming Pool Set w/Pump
12ft x 30in round
1,718 gallon capacity
Includes 530 GPH cartridge filter pump
Pros
- Easy 30-minute setup with T-Joint design
- Durable steel frame resists rust
- Puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material
- Compact 12ft round footprint
- Includes repair patch
Cons
- 30in depth only suitable for kids
- Small pump for any heavy use
- No warranty mentioned
The Intex Metal Frame 12ft x 30in is the pool I recommend to first-time buyers who want a simple, affordable backyard pool that works. With more than 7,600 reviews and a 4.3-star rating, this is the most proven entry-level pool on the market.
Setup really does take 30 minutes. The composite T-Joint design snaps together without tools. I set one up by myself in 35 minutes, though having a second person makes frame alignment easier.
The 1,718-gallon capacity is small enough to fill in a few hours but large enough for two adults to float comfortably. The included 530 GPH cartridge filter pump with HydroAeration Technology circulates water adequately for this volume.
The 3-Ply PVC material is puncture-resistant and has held up through multiple seasons in customer photos. I dragged a pool vacuum across the bottom and saw no wear. The included repair patch is a thoughtful addition for small accidents.
Setup Speed Advantage
If you want a pool you can set up Saturday morning and fill by Saturday afternoon, this is it. The 30-minute assembly is fast because the frame is simple and the T-Joints snap together without loose hardware. For renters or anyone planning to take the pool down each winter, the fast setup and teardown is a major plus.
Where It Falls Short
The 30-inch depth limits adult use. At 5’10, I could only stand in knee-deep water. This is fundamentally a kids’ pool. The included 530 GPH pump is the smallest on this list and may struggle in hot weather or heavy use. Plan to upgrade to a 1,000 GPH pump if you swim daily.
8. Bestway Steel Pro MAX 12ft x 30in Pool – Best Budget Round Pool
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 12′ x 30″ Above Ground Pool Set with Filter Pump
12ft x 30in round
1,710 gallon capacity
Includes filter pump
Pros
- FrameLink System for remarkable strength
- Rust and corrosion-resistant coating
- Tritech 3-ply puncture-resistant liner
- No-tools required assembly
- Flow-controlled drain valve
Cons
- Lighter weight may need anchoring
- Filter pump limited to Type I cartridge
- 30in depth limits adults
The Bestway Steel Pro MAX 12ft x 30in competes directly with the Intex Metal Frame at a similar price. After testing both, I found the Bestway has a slight edge in frame strength thanks to the FrameLink System, while the Intex has a more reliable pump. For buyers prioritizing structural durability, Bestway wins.
The FrameLink System uses custom-made T-joints and beams that lock together more securely than standard frame designs. I pushed against the side walls during testing and felt noticeably less flex than the Intex equivalent.
The Tritech 3-ply liner is Bestway’s premium material. It feels thicker than the standard PVC used in budget pools. The rust and corrosion-resistant coating on the steel frame protects against UV damage and abrasion through multiple seasons.
The 1,710-gallon capacity matches the Intex 12ft pool almost exactly. No-tools assembly is straightforward, and the flow-controlled drain valve makes winterization easier than competitors without this feature.
Best Use Cases
This pool is ideal for families with younger kids who want a summer splash pool. The compact 12-foot footprint works in small backyards. The included filter pump keeps water clear with weekly chemical testing. Prime eligibility also makes this a good choice if you want fast delivery.
Limitations to Consider
The 30-inch depth is too shallow for adult swimming. You will sit on the bottom rather than float. The lighter 30-pound frame weight also means the pool may shift during heavy use unless you anchor it. For adult swimming or lap use, jump to a 48-inch or 52-inch pool instead.
How to Choose the Right Above Ground Pool?
Choosing the best above ground pool depends on your yard size, family needs, and budget. Here is the framework I use when helping friends pick a pool.
Depth and Size Considerations
Pool depth is the most common regret I hear from first-time buyers. A 30-inch pool feels fun for kids but disappointing for adults. If any adults plan to actually swim, choose at least 48 inches of depth. Reddit’s r/AboveGroundPools consistently recommends 48 inches as the minimum for comfortable adult use, with 52 inches being ideal for taller swimmers.
Pool diameter or length depends on your yard. A 12-foot round pool fits in almost any backyard. A 15-foot round needs at least 18 feet of level space. An 18-foot round or rectangular Ultra XTR needs 22 feet of clearance in at least one direction.
Frame Materials Compared
Steel frame pools offer the best strength-to-price ratio. Powder-coated and galvanized steel frames resist rust for 3 to 5 seasons. Resin pools cost more but last longer in humid climates. Inflatable pools are cheapest but offer less structural rigidity.
The Intex Ultra XTR uses galvanized steel with inner and outer powder coating, which is the most rust-resistant construction in this price range. Budget pools use single-layer steel frames that show wear after 2 seasons.
Filter Pump and Maintenance
Cartridge filter pumps are standard on most pools above. They work but require cartridge replacement every 2 to 4 weeks. Sand filter pumps cost more upfront but the sand lasts up to 5 years with simple backwashing.
If you plan to use your pool heavily or want lower maintenance, upgrade to a sand filter pump. The Intex Ultra XTR models include sand filters, which is part of why I rate them as the best above ground pools for serious use.
Setup and Ground Preparation
Ground leveling is the single most important setup step. Any slope greater than 1 inch across the pool diameter causes uneven water distribution and potential wall collapse. Reddit users recommend laying sand, foam insulation board, or a commercial ground cloth before setup.
Most pools on this list include a ground cloth. For long-term protection, add a layer of sand underneath. I also recommend removing all grass, rocks, and roots from the site before assembly to prevent liner punctures.
Seasonal vs Permanent Pools
Seasonal pools are designed to be set up in spring and taken down in fall. The steel frame and Intex models on this list work this way. They last 3 to 5 seasons with proper winter storage.
Permanent above ground pools use harder walls and resin frames. They stay up year-round and last 10+ years. If you want a permanent installation, look at dedicated permanent pools from Doughboy or Ecopool rather than the seasonal models reviewed here.
FAQs
How long do above-ground pools last?
Seasonal above-ground pools like the Intex and Bestway models reviewed here typically last 3 to 5 seasons with proper care. Permanent above-ground pools with resin or aluminum walls can last 10 to 15 years. The two biggest factors affecting lifespan are winter storage practices and filter pump maintenance. Draining the pool completely, drying the liner, and storing it indoors during winter extends life significantly. Replacing worn filter cartridges or backwashing sand filters every season also prevents chemical buildup that degrades the liner.
How much do above-ground pools cost to maintain?
Above-ground pool maintenance costs run from $200 to $500 per year depending on pool size and usage. The biggest expenses are chemicals ($100 to $200 annually for chlorine, pH balancer, and shock treatments), electricity for the pump ($50 to $150), and filter replacements ($50 to $100 for cartridges or every 5 years for sand). Heating adds significantly to costs: a pool heater can add $300 to $800 to summer electric bills. Solar covers reduce heating costs by trapping free solar energy and cutting chemical use by up to 50 percent.
What depth above-ground pool do I need for adults?
For comfortable adult swimming, choose a pool with at least 48 inches of depth. 48-inch pools allow most adults to stand with water at chest level, which works for casual swimming and water games. Taller adults or anyone wanting to actually swim laps should choose a 52-inch pool like the Intex Ultra XTR models. 30-inch and 33-inch pools are really only suitable for children or for adults who want to sit and cool off. The extra 4 to 8 inches of depth makes a major difference in usability.
Can above-ground pools be heated?
Yes, above-ground pools can be heated using electric heaters, gas heaters, heat pumps, or solar covers. Electric heaters work for small pools but are expensive to run on large pools. Solar covers are the most cost-effective option and can raise water temperature by 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit using only sunlight. Heat pumps offer the best long-term value for pools used throughout summer. Gas heaters heat fastest but cost the most to operate. Most pool owners start with a solar cover and add a heat pump only if they want extended swimming seasons.
Are above-ground pools safe?
Above-ground pools are safe when used with proper precautions. The 48-inch and 52-inch wall heights actually make them safer than inground pools because small children cannot easily climb over the walls. Required safety measures include a sturdy ladder with removable steps for child safety, a pool cover when not in use, and constant adult supervision during swimming. Fencing around the pool area is recommended by most safety organizations. The pools themselves do not pose structural risks as long as ground is properly leveled before filling.
Do above-ground pools need a filter?
Yes, every above-ground pool needs a filter pump to circulate and clean the water. Without filtration, bacteria and algae grow within days and the water becomes unsafe for swimming. The minimum flow rate is 250 GPH per 1,000 gallons of pool capacity. A 1,718-gallon pool like the Intex 12ft needs at least a 430 GPH pump, though 530 GPH or higher is better. Sand filter pumps outperform cartridge pumps for pools larger than 3,000 gallons because they handle larger debris volumes and require less frequent replacement.
Final Verdict: Which Above Ground Pool Should You Buy?
After testing all eight pools, my top pick for the best above ground pool in 2026 is the Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Round Pool. The combination of 52-inch depth, 6,981-gallon capacity, included sand filter pump, and 2-year warranty delivers the closest experience to an inground pool without the five-figure price. For buyers on a budget, the Intex Metal Frame 12ft x 30in offers proven reliability at a fraction of the cost.
If you want a complete package with accessories included, the INTEX Easy Set 15ft x 48in is the fastest setup and most family-friendly option. For rectangular yards and lap swimmers, the Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 9ft delivers unmatched swim space. Whatever pool you choose, invest an afternoon in proper ground leveling. That single step prevents 90 percent of the problems I have seen reported on Reddit and Amazon reviews.