Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. The owner of agpoolreviews.com receives a commission when you click one of these links and purchase a product.
You might know them as easy set pools, quick set pools, or ring pools – all of which are appropriate names for this popular type of above ground swimming pool.
These pools are easy and quick to set up because you simply lay them out and add water. A floating ring does the rest, supporting the flexible sidewalls of the pool. In many cases, the pool can be set up and ready for water in less than 30 minutes.
Easy set swimming pools are generally larger than inflatable pools, but smaller (and cheaper) than other types of above ground pools. To give you an idea of what they have to offer, here are five of the best easy set pools you can buy, listed in order of size. Stick around until the end for a “bonus” pick that doesn’t quite fit with the others.
1. Bestway Disney Finding Nemo Pool
This Finding Nemo pool may be the small fry on this list, but with a 7-foot diameter and a depth of 26 inches, it’s quite spacious compared to other kiddie pools. It has other features that set it apart as well, including 3D effects and coins for diving games. It’s advertised for ages six and up, with enough room for bigger kids and even adults.2. Intex Ocean Reef Pool
The thing that stands out about this pool is the unique ocean reef theme. While kids in particular will love splashing around in this pool, it’s big enough for the whole family to get in on the action. It comes with a small pool pump to keep the water fresh.3. Summer Escapes Quick Set Ring Pool
Looking for something a bit bigger? This pool from Summer Escapes is one of the better and more affordable medium-sized pools you can buy. Like most larger pools, it comes with a pool pump, though some customers complain that it’s not up to snuff (you can always upgrade if that’s the case). The pool also comes with a built-in chlorinator.4. Intex Easy Set Pool
Intex is the biggest name in the easy set pool business, so it’s no surprise that they’re so well-represented on this list. This model seems to be one of their more popular offerings, probably because it hits the sweet spot of decent size and reasonable cost.5. Intex Easy Set Pool
This Intex pool comes in different sizes, the largest of which is an impressive four feet deep. Of course, it costs more than the other options, but what did you expect for a full-fledged backyard pool like this? It comes with a pool pump, ground cloth, ladder, and cover.Bonus Pick: Intex Oval Pool
This odd duck is a cross between an easy set pool and a metal frame pool. The hybrid design allows this pool to be oval-shaped, which could be an advantage for a variety of reasons (placement, exercise, aesthetics, etc). While it’s another pricey option, it comes fully loaded with a pool pump, ground cloth, ladder, and cover.Finding the Best Easy Set Pool For You and Your Family
When shopping for easy set pools, you might notice that even the most popular models get a fair number of complaints. That’s because easy set pools have a lot of the same downsides as blow up pools. That doesn’t mean you should accept a substandard product – just that you should be aware that some flaws are inherent with this type of pool.
The biggest mistake people make is setting up the pool on uneven ground. Even a slight slope can make an easy set pool unstable, and could eventually cause it to collapse. With larger pools, the challenge of finding a level spot is that much greater.
It’s also important to keep in mind that these are not long-lasting pools. The best easy set pools may last five years or more with proper care, while others last only a summer. As long as you remember that when you plunk down your money and keep your expectations in check, you shouldn’t have any regrets.
