Best Metal Frame Swimming Pools 2024

For people who live in warm climates or places that get hot during summer days, having a swimming pool can make the warm or hot weather more enjoyable. However, in-ground pools can be expensive to set up and maintain.

Above-ground pools are a practical and budget-friendly alternative. Moreover, they are easier to set up and are just as much fun as in-ground pools. Therefore, whether you simply want to try out a pool or are looking for an affordable alternative before installing a permanent pool in your yard, above-ground pools might just be the thing for you.

Here are some of the best above-ground pools available on the market:

  1. Intex 86” x 23” Rectangular Above-ground Pool

Best Metal frame swimming poolsThis child-safe splash swimming pool is an ideal starter pool for smaller families and spaces.

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Easy to assemble, the Intex 86” x 23” rectangular frame pool is ready for water in 30 minutes to ensure that you can escape the hot weather quickly.

It is supported by laminated sidewalls and sturdy, durable steel frames so it stays firmly in place as you enjoy your swimming sessions.

This above-ground pool is a relaxing and refreshing retreat that can fit up to six people. It is equipped with a drain plug that can be easily connected to any hose so that you can conveniently drain water away from your pool area and house.

Key features and specifications

  • Ideal summertime fun: The Intex 86” x 23” rectangular frame pool provides a fun way to escape the heat and helps keep your kids cool and happy.
  • It has a capacity of 439 gallons and can accommodate up to 6 people.
  • Easy to assemble in just 30 minutes.
  • Supported by sturdy, durable, powder-coated frames for aesthetic appeal and rust resistance.
  • Features laminated sidewalls which are reinforced with a band that keeps the steel frames firmly in place.
  • Equipped with a convenient drain plug that easily connects to a hose so you can drain water away.
  • The package includes an instructional DVD for all the help you need with the setup as well as maintenance.
  • Ideal for ages 6+
  • Weighs a mere 35 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 86” x 59” x 23”
  • Does not include a cover, ladder, liner, or filter pump.

Check out our article on the Safety Turtle pool alarm for kids HERE

  1. Intex Mini frame pool

Intex Mini frame pool for kidsEnjoy fun in the summer heat with the Intex Mini Frame Pool. It features foam padded beams and a Galvanized metal steel frame with a setup size of 48” x 48” x 12”.

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Perfect for kids aged 3 and above, this mini frame pool has a water level of 9.5” and a water capacity of 89 gallons.  It also includes a drain plug for easy and convenient draining.

Have fun playing and splashing with the Intex Miniature Frame Swimming Pool!

Check out our article on swim vests for toddlers HERE

Key features and specifications

  • 4 x 4 foot frame swimming pool is recommended for little ones learning to swim.
  • No pump, ladder, or filter required
  • Easy to assemble on firm, level ground
  • Equipped with foam-padded beams for comfort, repair patch, and drain plug
  • Durable PVC constructionBest Pool for kids
  • Resistant to tears and rips
  • Above ground frame
  • Height: 12”
  • Capacity: 89gallons
  • Weight: 12 pounds
  • Dimensions: 48” x 48” x 12” (L x W x H)
  • Space required: 16 sq. ft
  • Recommended capacity: 2 people
  1. Intex 12ft X 30in Easy Set Pool Set with Filter Pump

best above ground poolsMake a splash relaxing and playing in the heat with the Intex 12ft X 30in Easy Set Pool. This easy to assemble pool set includes a 110 x 12 V filter pump that is extremely easy to install; simply hook up the hoses and have fun in clean water.

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The setup process is also very easy; just spread out on firm ground, inflate the rig, fill it with water and start having fun in just 10 minutes. For proper installation of the pool, prepare an area adequately larger than the pool and ensure that it’s flat and firm. Uneven ground, holes, or hills should be leveled flat before installation.

Key features and specifications

  • Super-tough laminated 30 gauge sidewalls made with 3 layers of plastic for durability
  • 110 – 120 V filter pump with 530 GPH flow rate
  • Set-up and maintenance DVD
  • Convenient drain plug so water can be easily drained from the house area or pool
  • Water capacity 1,485 gallons (80%)
  • Recommended age grade 6+
  • Easy set-up and take down
  • Ready for use in just 10 minutes
  • Easy set pool great for kids and adults alike
  • Filter pump features a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)
  • Super tough plastic is not damaged by oil, salt water and gasoline and is highly resistant to impact, sunlight and abrasion.
  • Dimensions: 144” x 144” x 30”
  • Weight: 28.8 lbs
  1. Bestway 56477E Power Steel Rectangular Frame Above Ground 24ft x 12ft x 52in Pool Set

Best above ground swimming poolThis rectangular frame swimming pool is ideal for large families, pool parties, practicing lengths, or simply enjoying a dip on a sunny day.

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The Bestway Power Steel Rectangular Frame Pool Set has been designed with sturdy steel frames and has an impressive length of 24 feet making it hard wearing and ideal for large spaces.

Key features and specifications

  • Easy to construct
  • Sturdy and durable oval-shaped steel framing creates and maintains the rectangular shape.
  • Equipped with U-supports that hold the polyester and PVC polyester wall upright
  • Comes with spring-loaded pins that are easy to connect
  • 52-inch ladder included
  • 1,500-gallon sand filler included
  • Comes with a ground cover and cloth
  • Dimensions: 288” x 144” x 52”
  • Weight: 351 lbs
  • Endless summer fun for adults and kids alike
  • Minimal-tool assembly
  • The durable steel frame design is corrosion and rust-resistant
  • Equipped with durable connectors
  • The patented steel and lock system is resistant to leaking or bending from water pressure
  • The pin clip design is a safety feature that ensures stable joint connections
  • Comes with a ChemConnect chemical dispenser that replaces the traditional chemical floaters giving users more room to have fun.
  • Easy to assemble
  • Features a flow controlled drain valve that allows you to drain excess water in no time

Final verdict

For anyone looking for a metal frame swimming pool to have fun or exercise in, one of the above-ground pools listed above might be the right choice depending on your specific needs.

If you want an above-ground pool to support your young ones’ dreams of being a swimming champion, the Bestway Rectangular Frame Pool Set might be the right pool for you. Its wide steel frame and larger design mean this above-ground swimming pool needs a significantly larger backyard space.

However, this is only a limitation for people whose yards are not quite spacious enough to fit.  Overall, this pool is a fantastic choice for athletic families or large families because it gives you more space to have fun and exercise than most average above-ground pools.

Read about the best ‘Floating pool alarms’ HERE!