Best metal frame above ground pools

Jump in, cool off and enjoy the sun in your own private swimming pool. Once a luxury reserved for the very richest, but thanks to modern modular frames and sturdy inflatable pools, anyone with a flat patch of garden can now enjoy the luxury of having a pool in the backyard.

With sizes and styles to suit almost any budget, you're sure to find an option that works for you. To help you find the best pool for your needs, we've put together a handy list below, followed by our pick of the best pools on the market today.

Frequently asked questions we get include: which above ground pools are better, the ones from Bestway, Intex or those from Exit? What is the nicest looking above ground pool for the garden? Is it easy to take the pool down again?

What surface do you need for a metal frame above ground pool?

Unlike in-ground pools, above ground inflatable pools and frame pools don’t require extensive groundworks for installation. As long as you have a decent piece of garden with easy access to water, you’re good to go.

Make sure the area you choose is nice and level, otherwise your pool won’t fill evenly and you may overload one side. It’s also worth checking that the ground where you want to place the pool is firm enough to support it. While this isn’t such a big deal for smaller pools, it’s worth keeping in mind that one litre of water weighs one kilogram, so larger pools that need several thousand litres to fill will need solid ground underneath them.

For rough ground, we recommend buying an extra groundsheet if you don’t already have one. This protects the bottom of the pool from anything that could puncture or damage it.

Frame pools vs inflatable garden pools

When you start looking around, you’ll be choosing between metal frame pools and inflatable pools. There are plenty of high-quality options for both types, and both can be packed away when not in use.

Inflatable pools are quicker to set up and take down and easier to store. However, they do require an air pump to inflate them and sometimes need topping up as the temperature changes. Inflatable pools are also usually shallower than their framed counterparts, and their thick, air-filled walls will take up more space in your garden.

Frame pools are generally sturdier, and you can get them in larger sizes and depths. The downside is that frame pools take more effort to assemble and pack away and take up more storage space. They’re also more expensive.

The choice is ultimately yours, but for smaller and shallower pools for kids and families we recommend an inflatable pool, while for larger pools for adults a frame pool is usually the smarter choice.

Do I need a pump filter for my pool?

Whether or not you choose a pool with a pump filter depends on how big the pool is and how long you plan to keep it filled. Smaller paddling pools that are only filled occasionally will probably be fine without a filter, as you can simply empty, clean and refill the pool when needed. Larger pools, however, which require large amounts of water, will almost certainly benefit from adding a pump filter. With a quality pump you can get an entire season out of a single fill of pool water.

What about chlorine?

Filling a pool can require a significant amount of water; even medium-sized pools need thousands of litres. So you’re unlikely to want to fill and top it up more than necessary. Along with a filter for larger dirt particles and debris, you’ll probably want to consider some form of chlorination if you plan to keep the same water for an extended period. You can buy a chlorine dispenser, along with some chlorine tablets, for very little, and it will help keep your pool clean and the water clear throughout the summer season.

Can I heat my frame pool?

Although outdoor pools are designed to warm up naturally in the summer sun, there are heating elements available to give them a boost. The type of heater you need depends on the size of the pool, and most are designed to be used in combination with the pool pump. As an alternative to mains-powered heaters, there are also solar heating mats that gently warm the water as it passes through the filter.

Which extras should I look out for?

The extras that come with pools vary widely from model to model. In addition to pump filters, it’s worth looking for air pumps when you’re buying inflatable pools. Some inflatable pools come with an air pump included, but if the pool you’ve chosen doesn’t, we strongly recommend buying one separately. Hand or foot pumps are usually the most affordable, but you’ll really want an electric air pump even for medium-sized inflatable pools.

Pool cover

A durable cover is also a smart investment. A good quality cover protects your pool and keeps debris, pets and children away from the water when it’s not in use. As a bonus, most pool covers are dark grey or black, so they also help to warm the water before you get in.

Pool ladder

While not essential for smaller pools, a pool ladder can be a valuable addition for anything larger than a paddling pool. A ladder makes it easier to get in and out of the pool, especially for children. It also prevents unnecessary pressure on the walls of the pool when you climb in or out.

The best pools to buy in 2022

There’s a size for every garden, because above ground pools are available in virtually all dimensions. From very small pools 

The best small above ground pools (from 150 to 300 cm)

1. Intex Metal Frame Pool - Rectangular - Above Ground Pool - 220 x 150 x 60 cm
2. Bestway Deluxe Splash Jr. Frame Pool - 2.59m x 1.70m x 61cm 2300L
3. Intex Pool - Frame Pool - 220 x 150 x 60 - Including Solar Cover, Filter Pump & Filter
4. Bestway My First Frame Pool 221 x 150 x 43 cm - Pool

The best medium-sized above ground pools (from 300 to 450 cm)

1. Intex Prism Frame Pool 300 x 175 x 80 cm - with Filter Pump and Pool Ladder
2. Bestway Pool - 4.00 x 2.11 x 0.81 metres - Steel Frame
3. Intex Above Ground Pool - Prism Frame - Ø366 x 76 cm - With Pump - Grey
4. Intex Metal Frame Pool - Above Ground Pool - Round - 305 x 76 cm

The best large above ground pools (longer than 450 cm)

Intex Frame Pool Super Deal - 450 x 220 x 84 cm

Intex Ultra XTR Frame Pool Set round - 488x122 cm

Intex Prism Frame Pool 488 x 244 x 107 cm

Which above ground pool looks the best?

To be honest, most above ground pools look rather plasticky. But there are pools you can buy that look really stylish if you have a well-kept garden: the EXIT Wood pools. The Wood pool has a modern, rugged wood pattern on the outside, making it a real eye-catcher in your garden. The inside of the pool is blue, for that fresh swimming pool feel. View all Exit Wood above ground pools here.