Bestway Hydrium Oval Above Ground Pool Review: The Semi-Permanent Backyard Oasis We Put to the Test

For years, our summers followed a familiar, laborious rhythm. It began with hauling a massive, heavy box from the garage, unrolling a vast expanse of vinyl, and spending hours wrestling with poles and liners, all in the pursuit of a few precious months of backyard aquatic fun. Then, just as we perfected the chemical balance, fall would arrive, signaling the equally daunting task of draining, cleaning, disassembling, and packing it all away. We loved having a pool, but the cycle of setting up and tearing down our seasonal soft-sided pool was exhausting. We dreamed of a more permanent solution, a pool that felt like a true feature of our home, one we could landscape around and enjoy year after year without the monumental effort. The prohibitive cost of a traditional in-ground pool, however, kept that dream at bay. This is the exact dilemma that led us to investigate a more robust, semi-permanent alternative, and our search ultimately ended with the Bestway Hydrium Oval Above Ground Pool, a product that promises the permanence of a hard-sided pool with a DIY-friendly approach.

Key Considerations Before Choosing a Hard-Sided Above Ground Pool

A hard-sided, steel wall pool is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for homeowners seeking the longevity and stability of an in-ground pool without the five-figure price tag and disruptive excavation. Unlike their inflatable or tube-frame cousins, these pools are designed to be a semi-permanent fixture in your yard. The primary benefit is durability. Constructed with corrosion-resistant steel walls, they can withstand the elements year-round, eliminating the annual setup and takedown ritual. This permanence also allows you to integrate the pool into your landscaping, building decks or patios around it to create a truly professional and cohesive backyard oasis. It’s a significant step up, transforming a temporary summer accessory into a lasting home improvement.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the fatigue of temporary pools and who owns their home with a suitable, dedicated space. They are likely a hands-on DIYer or are willing to budget for professional installation to ensure a perfect setup. This pool is an investment in your property and lifestyle. Conversely, it might not be suitable for those who are renting, have a very unlevel or small yard, or who want the absolute simplest, quickest setup possible. For them, a smaller, more portable option like the Bestway Steel Pro series might be a better fit. If you’re considering this leap, you’re looking for value, longevity, and a summer experience that starts with uncovering the pool, not building it from scratch.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: The advertised 24′ x 12′ footprint is just the beginning. The oval shape requires external A-frame supports along the straight sides, which extend the total width considerably. Crucially, the ground must be perfectly, meticulously level. An uneven foundation is the number one cause of structural failure in these pools, leading to bowing walls or even catastrophic collapse. Measure your space carefully, accounting for several feet of clearance on all sides, and be prepared to invest significant time and effort in ground preparation.
• Capacity/Performance: This pool holds a substantial amount of water, likely in the range of 9,000 gallons at 90% capacity, making it a true family-sized swimming hole. The performance of the entire system hinges on the included filter pump. The provided 1500-gallon-per-hour (GPH) sand filter is tasked with circulating and cleaning this large volume of water. While a 6-hour turnover rate is good on paper, factors like debris load and usage will test its limits, which is why some owners opt for a more powerful pump.
• Materials & Durability: The core feature of the Bestway Hydrium Oval Above Ground Pool is its construction. The walls, top ledge, and frame are 100% galvanized steel with a zinc coating to prevent rust and weather damage. This is a world away from the PVC and polyester liners of soft-sided pools. It’s this robust material that allows it to stay up year-round, even in climates with freezing winters (provided you follow proper winterizing procedures). The quality of the included vinyl liner is also a key factor, as it’s the ultimate barrier holding the water.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: While long-term maintenance is straightforward, the initial setup is a major project. Do not underestimate the labor involved. Once assembled, a sand filter requires less frequent intervention than a cartridge filter—typically just periodic backwashing—but the sand will need to be replaced every 3-5 years. Daily care will still involve skimming, vacuuming, and managing water chemistry, just like any other pool.

While the Bestway Hydrium Oval Above Ground Pool 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:

Unboxing and First Look: A Pool Built to Last

The arrival of the Bestway Hydrium Oval Above Ground Pool is an event in itself. It comes in several large, extremely heavy boxes, immediately signaling that this is a serious piece of equipment. Unboxing it, we were immediately struck by the sheer heft and substance of the components. The star of the show is the massive roll of corrugated steel that will form the pool’s wall. It’s heavy and unwieldy, a stark contrast to the flimsy materials of pools we’d owned in the past. The top rails and vertical supports are equally robust, finished in a tasteful brown that complements the attractive woodgrain pattern on the wall. The liner felt thick and durable to the touch, inspiring confidence that it could withstand years of use. The kit is impressively complete, including the 1500 GPH sand filter pump, a 52″ A-frame ladder, a ground cloth, a pool cover, and even a chemical dispenser. It’s clear from the outset that this isn’t just a pool; it’s a comprehensive backyard water system designed for permanence, and you can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a sense of the complete package.

In-Depth Analysis: How the Bestway Hydrium Performs Day-to-Day

A pool’s true worth is measured not just on day one, but over the course of a long, hot summer and into the seasons that follow. We put the Bestway Hydrium Oval Above Ground Pool through its paces, from the grueling assembly to daily splashes and ongoing maintenance, to see if its performance lived up to its promising construction.

The Installation Gauntlet: A Test of Patience and Precision

Let’s be unequivocally clear: installing the Bestway Hydrium Oval Above Ground Pool is a major undertaking. This is not a pop-up, afternoon project. Our experience, confirmed by a chorus of user feedback, is that success is 90% preparation. The first, and most critical, step is creating a perfectly level surface. We spent the better part of a day excavating, tamping, and leveling our chosen spot. Any deviation here can lead to the horrifying bowing or buckling walls some users have reported. We cannot stress this enough: do not skip or rush the ground prep. Once the foundation was ready, we laid out the bottom frame, which was straightforward. The real challenge began with the steel wall. This component is incredibly heavy and has a mind of its own, constantly wanting to spring back into a coil. As one user noted, “the circumstance of the circle and the ring gets out of position as you put the steal in place,” and we found this to be absolutely true. It took three of us to wrangle the wall into the bottom track, a process that was both physically demanding and mentally taxing. The instructions, which consist almost entirely of small diagrams, were a source of frustration. As another user rightly pointed out, there are “NO STEP BY STEP WORDS.” We highly recommend supplementing the manual by finding a detailed video guide online; it made a world of difference for us. After the wall was secured, installing the liner was comparatively easy, though we followed the excellent advice to fill the pool slowly, smoothing out wrinkles as the water level rose. In total, our installation took the better part of two days. It was difficult, but the feeling of accomplishment and the sight of the incredibly solid structure made it feel worthwhile. This is the trade-off: you exchange a weekend of hard labor for years of stability.

Built to Endure: Steel Wall Construction and Durability

Once the assembly ordeal is over, the true benefits of the Bestway Hydrium Oval Above Ground Pool begin to shine. The galvanized steel wall creates a structure that feels immensely solid and secure. There’s none of the wobble or flex you get from a tube-frame pool. Leaning against the top rail, you feel like you’re at the edge of a permanent, in-ground structure. This robustness is the pool’s core value proposition. It’s designed to withstand the elements 365 days a year. The attractive brown woodgrain finish not only looks great on its own but has held up well to direct sunlight with minimal fading, a sentiment echoed by users who’ve had it for multiple summers. The liner provided is of a higher quality than we expected, feeling thick and resilient. We found the pool’s structure to be completely sound, holding its shape perfectly once filled. The negative reviews detailing buckling walls are concerning, but in our expert opinion, these issues are almost certainly the result of an unlevel installation base rather than a flaw in the product itself. When built on a solid, flat foundation, the engineering of this pool is impressive and delivers the durable, year-round experience it promises. For homeowners looking for a pool that becomes a lasting part of their yard, this level of durability is a key selling point.

The Complete Ecosystem: Pump, Filter, and Accessories

A pool is only as good as its circulation system, and this is where we found the most debate. The kit includes a 1500 GPH sand filter pump. For a pool of this size (approximately 9,000 gallons), this provides a theoretical turnover time of 6 hours, which meets industry recommendations. In our testing, we found the pump to be… adequate. It kept the water clear with regular chemical maintenance and daily run times of 8-10 hours. As one user mentioned, it had enough pressure to run their heater. However, we agree with the general consensus that it feels like the bare minimum for a pool this large. During periods of heavy use or after a storm, the pump struggled to keep up. Many long-term owners choose to upgrade to a more powerful pump (2500-3000 GPH) for better performance and peace of mind. We’d classify the included pump as a decent starter, but a future upgrade is a worthy consideration. The sand filter itself is a welcome feature, requiring far less maintenance than cartridge filters. The included A-frame ladder is functional but, as others noted, feels wobbly and doesn’t match the premium, sturdy feel of the pool. It’s safe, but it’s another component you might look to upgrade down the line. The included skimmer, cover, and ground cloth are all decent quality and round out the package, adding significant value and ensuring you have everything you need to get started right out of the box.

Everyday Enjoyment: Size, Space, and Family Fun

All the hard work pays off the moment you dive in. The 24′ x 12′ size is fantastic. The long, straight sides are genuinely long enough for adults to swim short laps, while the rounded ends are perfect for kids to splash and play. The 52-inch depth is a real highlight, providing a true swimming experience that feels much more substantial than shallower 42-inch or 48-inch models. It’s deep enough for adults to comfortably tread water and for older kids to practice their swimming skills safely. We easily validated the user experience of fitting “4 adults and a jumping kid pretty easily.” In fact, we hosted six adults on floats with room to spare. The oval shape is also more space-efficient in many backyards than a massive round pool. It quickly became the centerpiece of our summer, a hub of activity from morning till night. Whether it was a quiet solo float, a vigorous family water fight, or an evening pool party with friends, the Bestway Hydrium Oval Above Ground Pool provided the space and depth to accommodate it all, truly transforming our backyard into a private resort.

What Other Users Are Saying

Across the board, user sentiment for the Bestway Hydrium Oval Above Ground Pool paints a consistent picture: it’s a fantastic, high-quality pool that demands a significant, precise installation effort. Positive comments frequently praise its sturdiness and longevity. One owner happily reported, “We’ve made it almost two summers with the pool and it’s holding up really well. The walls are sturdy and the liner is high quality.” Another simply stated it was “well worth the price and effort.” This highlights the satisfaction owners feel once the project is complete.

On the other hand, the difficulty of the build is the most common complaint. One user gives a stark warning: “believe me you absolutely must hire professional installers… THE DIRECTIONS ARE MINIATURE PICTURES. NO STEP BY STEP WORDS!!!” This sentiment is repeated by many who found the process physically demanding and the instructions lacking. The other major critique centers on the included accessories, specifically the pump, which many feel is undersized, and the ladder, which is described as wobbly. These mixed reviews are relevant because they manage expectations: if you buy this pool, expect a challenging build but a rewarding, durable outcome.

How Does the Bestway Hydrium Compare to the Competition?

The Bestway Hydrium Oval Above Ground Pool occupies a unique space between temporary seasonal pools and permanent in-ground installations. To understand its value, it’s helpful to compare it against some popular alternatives.

1. Bestway Steel Pro 10 Foot Round Above Ground Pool Set

The Bestway Steel Pro is a perfect example of a high-quality temporary pool. It’s smaller, much less expensive, and infinitely easier to set up. This is the ideal choice for someone with a small yard, a tight budget, or who is renting. It provides a great way to cool off and for small children to play, but it lacks the size, depth, and permanence of the Hydrium. If your goal is a simple, seasonal splash pad that can be packed away in the fall, the Steel Pro is a fantastic option. If you’re seeking a long-term backyard centerpiece for the whole family, the Hydrium is in a different league entirely.

2. Aquarian Phoenix 15′ Steel-Frame Pool Kit

The Aquarian Phoenix represents a middle ground. It uses a more traditional steel-frame design, which is generally sturdier than a basic tube frame but doesn’t have the solid-wall integrity of the Hydrium. Its 15-foot round shape offers a decent amount of space, but it lacks the lap-swimming potential of the Hydrium’s oval design. Installation is typically easier than a steel wall pool but more involved than a simple pop-up model. This is a solid choice for someone who wants more durability than a basic frame pool but isn’t ready to commit to the intense installation and semi-permanent nature of the Bestway Hydrium Oval Above Ground Pool.

3. Intex Prism Frame 20ft x 10ft Oval Pool Set

The Intex Prism Frame is the Hydrium’s most direct competitor in terms of size and shape. The key difference is the construction: the Intex uses a strong PVC liner supported by an external steel tube frame. This design is significantly easier and faster to assemble than the Hydrium’s solid steel wall. However, it doesn’t offer the same sleek, integrated look or the year-round durability. The Prism Frame is an excellent choice for a family wanting a large oval pool for the season without the monumental effort of a steel-wall build. The Hydrium, in contrast, is for the buyer who is willing to trade installation difficulty for superior longevity and a more permanent aesthetic.

Our Final Verdict: Is the Bestway Hydrium Oval Above Ground Pool Right for You?

After extensive testing, challenging assembly, and a summer full of enjoyment, our verdict on the Bestway Hydrium Oval Above Ground Pool is overwhelmingly positive, but with a significant caveat. This is a brilliant product for the right person. It delivers on its promise of providing a durable, semi-permanent, family-sized pool that feels like a genuine home upgrade, all for a price that pales in comparison to an in-ground installation. Its steel walls provide unparalleled sturdiness in the above-ground market, and its generous size and depth make for a truly premium swimming experience. However, its greatest strength is tied to its greatest weakness: the installation. This is a demanding project that requires time, patience, multiple people, and an absolutely level site.

We recommend this pool wholeheartedly to the dedicated DIY homeowner who is prepared for a challenging but rewarding project, or to anyone willing to budget for professional installation. If you want a pool that will last for many years and become a beautiful, integrated part of your backyard, the effort is absolutely worth it. If you are a renter, have uneven ground, or are looking for a simple weekend setup, you should look elsewhere. For those ready to make a long-term investment in their family’s summer fun, the Bestway Hydrium Oval Above Ground Pool is an exceptional choice that you can check the latest price on here.