Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Pool Set Review: The Ultimate Backyard Oasis or a Summer Headache?

I remember those long, sweltering July afternoons like they were yesterday. The air is thick, the sun is relentless, and the kids are bouncing off the walls with a potent cocktail of boredom and heat-induced crankiness. The local community pool is an option, but the thought of packing everyone up, fighting for a parking spot, and navigating the crowded, chlorinated waters often feels more exhausting than refreshing. For years, we dreamed of having our own backyard retreat—a personal oasis where we could escape the heat on our own terms, create lasting family memories, and truly own our summer. The challenge, however, was finding a solution that balanced size, durability, and cost without requiring a permanent, landscape-altering in-ground installation. This search for the perfect middle ground is what led us to the world of high-end above-ground pools, and specifically, to the model we’re examining today.

What to Consider Before Buying a Framed Swimming Pool

A Framed Swimming Pool is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for creating a seasonal, semi-permanent aquatic playground in your own backyard. It represents a significant upgrade from flimsy inflatable pools, offering superior size, depth, and structural integrity that can last for many seasons with proper care. The main benefit is achieving an in-ground pool experience—plenty of room for swimming, playing, and lounging—at a fraction of the cost and with the flexibility to disassemble and store it during the off-season. It solves the problem of wanting a substantial, family-sized pool without the permanent commitment and massive expense of excavation and construction.

The ideal customer for this type of product is a homeowner or long-term renter with a reasonably sized, flat backyard and a desire for a serious summer recreation spot. This is for the family that has outgrown splash pads and wants to swim actual laps, play volleyball, or host pool parties for friends and neighbors. It’s for someone who is willing to invest a bit of time in site preparation and ongoing maintenance to ensure the longevity of their investment. Conversely, this might not be suitable for those with very small, sloped, or uneven yards, as a level base is non-negotiable. It’s also not for the person looking for a “set it and forget it” solution; like any pool, it requires regular chemical balancing and cleaning.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: It’s not just about the pool’s footprint. You must account for at least 3-4 feet of clear, level space around the entire perimeter for the support legs and for safe access. Before you even look at a product like the Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Pool Set, measure your yard meticulously. An 18-foot diameter pool actually requires a clear, level area of about 20-22 feet to be safe and practical.
• Capacity/Performance: This refers to both water capacity and filter performance. A larger pool holding nearly 7,000 gallons of water, like this Intex model, needs a powerful pump to keep the water clean and clear. Pay close attention to the pump type (sand filter vs. cartridge) and its flow rate (Gallons Per Hour). A sand filter is generally more powerful and lower maintenance, representing a significant performance upgrade over standard cartridge filters included with cheaper sets.
• Materials & Durability: The two key components are the liner and the frame. Look for a multi-ply, puncture-resistant PVC liner; the best ones, like Intex’s SUPER-TOUGH material, are designed to withstand years of use. For the frame, galvanized, powder-coated steel offers the best protection against rust and corrosion, ensuring the structural integrity that holds thousands of gallons of water at bay.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider the entire ownership experience. How complex is the assembly? What tools are required? More importantly, what is the day-to-day and week-to-week maintenance commitment? A complete set that includes a quality filter pump, ladder, ground cloth, and cleaning kit significantly lowers the barrier to entry and makes long-term care far more manageable.

Getting the right pool for your family can transform your home life, turning your backyard into the go-to destination for fun and relaxation. It’s a decision that requires careful planning to ensure years of happy swimming.

While the Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Pool Set is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing the Beast

The arrival of the Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Pool Set is an event in itself. The single, massive box is heavy and hints at the substantial nature of the components within. Unpacking it feels like revealing the pieces of a giant, exciting puzzle. The first thing we noticed was the sheer quality of the main components. The gray, 3-ply PVC liner felt incredibly thick and heavy-duty, a far cry from the thin material of cheaper pools. The galvanized steel frame components were robust, with a smooth, powder-coated finish that immediately inspired confidence. Intex’s T-Joints and easy-lock system promise a tool-free assembly, which is a bold claim for a structure of this magnitude. The kit is impressively comprehensive, including not just the pool structure but also the highly regarded Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump, a safety ladder, ground cloth, pool cover, and a basic maintenance kit. Straight out of the box, it’s clear that this is a premium above-ground pool package designed to be an all-in-one solution for a family serious about summer fun. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a sense of the complete package.

Performance Deep Dive: Living with the Intex Ultra XTR

A pool’s true worth is measured not by its spec sheet, but by the experience of setting it up, using it day after day, and maintaining it through the height of summer. We spent weeks putting the Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Pool Set through its paces, from the initial ground prep to the first cannonball and beyond. Our in-depth analysis focuses on the core pillars of its performance: the frame’s assembly and strength, the liner’s durability, the filtration system’s effectiveness, and the value of the included accessory package.

The Ultra XTR Frame: A Masterclass in Durability, A Test of Patience

The foundation of any great above-ground pool is its frame, and this is where the “Ultra XTR” designation truly shines. The frame is constructed from high-quality, powder-coated galvanized steel, which we found to be incredibly resistant to rust and warping. Unlike cheaper metal frame pools that can feel flimsy during setup, every component here feels substantial. The core of the design is Intex’s precision-engineered locking system. The horizontal beams slide into the T-Joints and snap into place with a satisfying click, eliminating the need for pesky locking pins that can get lost or rust over time. It’s an elegant and strong system.

However, let’s address the elephant in the room: the “60-minute setup” claim on the box. In our experience, this is wildly optimistic. For a first-time setup, with two reasonably handy adults, the frame assembly alone took closer to two hours. This sentiment is echoed by many users, with some reporting three hours with three people. The real challenge comes when connecting the final top rail. The tension on the liner is immense, and it requires significant strength to lock that last piece into place. We confirmed a vital tip from the user community: dusting the vinyl sleeves with talcum or baby powder before sliding the top rails through makes a world of difference. It reduces friction and can save you a lot of frustration. While the setup is longer than advertised, the result is an incredibly rigid and stable structure. Once filled, the immense pressure of nearly 7,000 gallons of water locks everything together, creating a pool that feels solid and secure, a testament to a feature that really sets it apart from less robust models.

Liner Integrity: The Heart of the Pool and Its Biggest Variable

The pool liner is arguably the most critical component, and the Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Pool Set comes with their SUPER-TOUGH, puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material. During setup, we were impressed by its thickness. It feels far more durable than liners from entry-level pools. We even found reports from users who let their dogs swim in the pool without issue, which speaks volumes about its puncture resistance. However, the integrity of a liner is also its most common point of failure, and our research uncovered a spectrum of experiences. The vast majority of owners have zero issues for years, but a small and vocal minority report problems ranging from tiny pinholes along fold lines to, in rare and catastrophic cases, major seam failures.

This highlights the absolute, non-negotiable importance of ground preparation. The instructions are clear: the ground must be perfectly level. Attempting to set this pool up on even a slight grade puts uneven stress on the seams, dramatically increasing the risk of failure. We followed best practices, using a laser level to ensure a flat surface and placing foam insulation boards underneath the included ground cloth. This provides a softer, puncture-proof base and helps prevent heat loss. While some liner defects can be attributed to manufacturing, we believe most catastrophic failures are directly linked to improper site prep. If you get a liner with a defect from the factory, Intex’s 2-year warranty should cover it, and we found users who reported positive experiences with customer service sending a replacement. Taking the time to prepare your site perfectly is the best insurance you can have for a long and happy pool life.

Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump: The Unsung Hero of Clean Water

If the liner is the heart of the pool, the pump is the circulatory system. This is where the Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Pool Set truly pulls away from the competition. Many pool sets in this price range skimp on the pump, including underpowered cartridge filters that require constant cleaning and replacement. Intex made the right choice by bundling this pool with their 26645EG Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump. This is a game-changer for pool maintenance.

Sand filters are superior to cartridge filters in almost every way. They capture finer debris, require far less frequent maintenance, and the filter media (sand or glass) lasts for years instead of weeks. The pump’s 6-function control valve is intuitive, allowing for easy filtering, backwashing, rinsing, and other essential tasks. During our testing, this pump had no trouble turning over the pool’s massive 6,981-gallon capacity, keeping the water sparkling clear with minimal effort. We ran it for about 6-8 hours a day and found the suction was more than adequate for the included skimmer and vacuum. The ease of maintenance—just a quick backwash every week or two—makes pool ownership feel less like a chore and more like the luxury it should be. This pump is a significant part of the value proposition, and for many, it justifies the entire purchase. To check the latest price and availability is to see the value in this high-performance component.

The Complete Package: Evaluating the Included Accessories

A pool is more than just a frame and liner; the accessories determine the day-to-day user experience. The included ladder is sturdy and features a safety barrier, which is a nice touch for families with small children. The ground cloth and pool cover are standard but effective. The real point of contention we found, both in our testing and in user feedback, is the 28002E Cleaning Maintenance Kit. On one hand, it’s great that Intex includes a telescoping pole, skimmer head, and vacuum head. On the other hand, the quality can be inconsistent.

We encountered user reports of the vacuum arriving with a missing wheel, making it difficult to use. Others noted that the suction-based vacuum is only moderately effective and that they eventually upgraded to a robotic cleaner. We also saw feedback from buyers who were missing the entire maintenance kit from their sealed box, leading to a frustrating experience. While the inclusion of these items is a plus, our expert advice is to view them as “starter” accessories. They will get you through your first season, but you may find yourself wanting to upgrade the vacuum or skimmer for a more robust cleaning solution down the line. Despite these minor issues with the add-ons, the core components of the Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Pool Set are so strong that the overall value remains exceptionally high.

What Other Users Are Saying

After our hands-on testing, we delved deep into the collective experience of hundreds of other owners to ensure our findings were comprehensive. The sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with families praising the pool’s size and sturdiness. One long-term user, now over a year and a half into ownership, calls it “one of my favorite purchases to date,” highlighting its longevity and trouble-free operation. Another happy customer noted, “Did my research and this package was the best deal and just a great all around pool. Pump is defined a good one and liner is super heavy duty.”

However, the feedback isn’t universally perfect, and common threads emerge in the critiques. The most frequent complaint is the setup time, with one user stating, “Yeah the 60 min install time is a joke. Maybe with 3 people.” The most serious issues, though less common, revolve around liner defects. One unfortunate buyer experienced a catastrophic seam split just five days after installation, resulting in a flooded backyard. Another found multiple small tears after filling the pool. These negative experiences underscore our earlier point: meticulous ground prep is crucial, and you should inspect the liner carefully before and during the filling process to catch any potential warranty issues early.

How Does the Intex Ultra XTR Compare to the Alternatives?

The Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Pool Set is a formidable option, but it exists in a competitive market. It’s important to understand how it stacks up against other popular choices, especially those that might better suit different needs or budgets.

1. Bestway Steel Pro Rectangular Above Ground Pool Set

The Bestway Steel Pro offers a completely different proposition. At roughly 10ft x 7ft, it is significantly smaller and shallower, making it ideal for families with very limited space or younger children. Its rectangular shape can be more space-efficient in some backyards. However, its much smaller capacity is matched by a significantly less powerful 330 GPH cartridge filter pump, which will require more frequent maintenance. Someone should choose the Bestway Steel Pro if their primary constraints are space and budget, and they are looking for a simple, fun splash pool rather than a larger, more permanent-feeling swimming structure.

2. Intex 15ft x 48in Metal Frame Pool Set

This is essentially the smaller sibling to the Ultra XTR model we reviewed. It offers a similar round shape and Intex’s reliable metal frame construction, but in a more compact 15-foot diameter and a slightly shallower 48-inch depth. The key downgrade is the inclusion of a 1000 GPH cartridge filter pump instead of the superior sand filter. A family might prefer this model if the 18-foot diameter is just too large for their yard, or if they are looking for a lower initial purchase price. It delivers a great Intex experience but requires more hands-on maintenance due to the cartridge filter.

3. Evajoy 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool

The Evajoy pool is in a completely different class, designed for toddlers and very young children. With its compact rectangular dimensions and shallow 23-inch depth, it’s more of a large splash pool than a swimming pool. Critically, this model does not typically include a filter pump, meaning water will need to be treated heavily or changed frequently. This is the perfect choice for a family with toddlers who want something safer and more substantial than a thin inflatable pool but are not yet ready for a full-depth swimming pool. It is not a competitor for someone considering the Ultra XTR.

Our Final Verdict: Is the Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Pool Set Right for You?

After extensive testing, analysis, and consideration of user feedback, we can confidently say that the Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Pool Set is one of the best all-in-one above-ground pool packages on the market. Its strengths are significant: the frame is immensely strong and stable, the liner is thick and durable, and the included sand filter pump is a powerhouse that dramatically simplifies maintenance. The sheer size and depth provide a genuine swimming experience that can keep a large family entertained all summer long. While the assembly takes longer than advertised and the included cleaning accessories are merely adequate, these are minor trade-offs for the exceptional quality of the core components.

We recommend this pool to any family with a suitable, level backyard who is ready to invest in a high-quality, long-lasting summer centerpiece. If you’re prepared to put in the effort for a proper, meticulous setup, you will be rewarded with a backyard oasis that delivers seasons of joy. For those ready to transform their summer, the Intex Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Pool Set offers an unbeatable combination of size, quality, and value.