Bestway Steel Pro MAX 13′ x 42″ Above Ground Pool Review: Your Backyard Oasis or a Summer Setback?

There’s a universal moment every summer. The sun is relentless, the air is thick, and the kids are starting to climb the walls with a familiar chorus of “I’m bored.” My family and I reached that point last year. The idea of a backyard pool was tantalizing—a private oasis just steps from our door, a perfect cure for summer listlessness. But the thought of excavation, permits, and the five-figure price tag of an in-ground pool was an immediate non-starter. We needed something accessible, something that could transform our yard for the season without permanently transforming our bank account. This search for an affordable, high-quality, and complete solution led us directly to the world of above-ground pools, a category where the promise of summer fun can sometimes be clouded by concerns over durability and complicated setups. The challenge was finding a package that delivered on its promises, and our research pointed us toward a very popular contender.

Before You Dive In: A Buyer’s Guide to Framed Swimming Pools

An above-ground framed swimming pool is more than just a large container for water; it’s a key solution for families seeking the joy of swimming without the immense financial and logistical commitment of a permanent installation. They represent a fantastic middle ground, offering more space, depth, and stability than inflatable splash pools, while remaining a temporary structure that can be enjoyed for many seasons and stored away during the winter. The primary benefit is accessibility—transforming a standard backyard into a hub of summer activity, exercise, and relaxation for a fraction of the cost of traditional alternatives. For a closer look at the features and options available, you can see the full specifications for this popular model.

The ideal customer for this type of product is a homeowner or renter with a reasonably level patch of yard, a family with children old enough to safely enjoy water that’s roughly three feet deep, and a budget that accommodates the initial purchase plus ongoing maintenance costs for chemicals and electricity. It’s for the DIY-inclined person who doesn’t mind an afternoon project. Conversely, this might not be the right fit for those with severely sloped or rocky terrain that cannot be easily leveled, individuals living under strict HOA rules that prohibit such structures, or those seeking a permanent, high-end aesthetic feature for their property. For them, a smaller, portable inflatable spa or a professional in-ground installation might be a more suitable path.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: The first step is always to measure. A 13-foot round pool requires a 13-foot diameter circle of perfectly level ground, plus at least two to three feet of clearance on all sides for the support legs and for safe access. Don’t eyeball it. Use a tape measure and stakes to map out the exact footprint to ensure it fits comfortably and safely in your chosen location.
• Capacity & Performance: Consider the pool’s volume, in this case, just under 3,000 gallons. This determines the amount of chemicals you’ll need and the workload on the filter pump. The pump’s Gallons Per Hour (GPH) rating is critical; it should be able to circulate the entire volume of water in an 8-hour period. An undersized pump will struggle to keep the water clean, leading to frustration and extra expense.
• Materials & Durability: Look for multi-ply, reinforced liners like the Tritech material used here, which is specifically designed to resist punctures and UV degradation. The frame should be made of corrosion-resistant coated steel to prevent rust. Pay attention to the connectors; while plastic can be strong, all-metal joints often provide greater peace of mind for long-term durability.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: A tool-free assembly system, like the ClickConnect joints on the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 13′ x 42″ Above Ground Pool, can save hours of frustration. However, the initial setup is just the beginning. Be prepared for the daily routine of testing water chemistry, skimming debris, and periodically cleaning the filter. A complete kit with a cover and ladder included adds significant value and convenience.

While the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 13′ x 42″ 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 Summer Fun: First Impressions of the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 13′ x 42″ Above Ground Pool

The arrival of the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 13′ x 42″ Above Ground Pool was an event. The box is substantial and heavy, tipping the scales at over 80 pounds, so it was definitely a two-person job to move it to the backyard. Upon opening, we found all the components neatly, if tightly, packed. We did note, as some other users have, that the packaging feels a bit thin for the weight, so it’s wise to inspect everything for shipping damage immediately. Laid out on the lawn, the components felt substantial. The taupe-colored Tritech liner with its chic chevron pattern was immediately more appealing than the standard bright blue of most pools, promising to blend more naturally with our backyard decor. The powder-coated steel poles felt sturdy, and the ClickConnect T-connectors, while plastic, appeared robust enough for the job. The inclusion of the canopy, ladder, cover, and filter pump makes this a truly comprehensive package, which is a major selling point. You can check the latest price and see everything included in the kit. Compared to buying each piece separately, this all-in-one approach presents incredible initial value and removes a lot of guesswork for first-time pool owners.

From Dry Land to Deep End: A Detailed Performance Analysis

A pool’s worth isn’t judged by its spec sheet, but by the quality of the summer it provides. We spent weeks with the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 13′ x 42″ Above Ground Pool, evaluating it from the initial groundwork to the daily cannonballs. We meticulously tested its construction, ease of use, and the performance of every single accessory. Our deep dive reveals a product with a very strong core foundation that is let down by one critical, yet replaceable, component.

Groundwork and Assembly: The Real “Hardest Part”

Let’s be perfectly clear: the single most important and time-consuming part of this entire process is preparing the ground. This sentiment was echoed by nearly every experienced user we came across. The actual assembly of the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 13′ x 42″ Above Ground Pool is shockingly simple. Following the instructions, my husband and I had the frame and liner fully assembled in well under an hour. The ClickConnect system is brilliant; the poles slide together and lock into the T-connectors with a satisfying click, requiring no tools, no screws, and no frustration. It’s an intuitive design that a single person could manage in about 90 minutes, as one user confirmed.

However, this easy assembly is only possible after you’ve done the real work. We spent the better part of a day meticulously leveling a 14-foot circle of our yard. This involved digging, tamping, and using a long level to ensure it was perfect. An unlevel base puts uneven stress on the frame and liner, which is the number one cause of premature failure in these pools. Heeding the advice of seasoned owners, we went a step further. We laid down landscape fabric, followed by a layer of masonry sand, and finally a dedicated pool floor pad. To prevent the support legs from sinking into the soft ground over time, we placed a paver stone under each one. This prep work is not optional; it is the absolute key to a safe, stable, and long-lasting pool. The easy setup is the reward for your hard labor.

Durability and Construction: A Frame of Mind

Once filled, the pool’s structure truly comes into its own. The frame, made of corrosion-resistant alloy steel, feels solid and secure, holding back nearly 3,000 gallons (and over 24,000 pounds) of water without any unnerving bowing. The real star, however, is the Tritech liner. It feels noticeably thicker and tougher than standard PVC liners we’ve handled in the past. This 3-layer reinforced material is designed for strength and puncture resistance, and it gave us confidence that an accidental scrape from a toy or a stray branch wouldn’t result in disaster. The interior print is pleasant, and the seams, while noticeable, appeared well-sealed with no signs of weeping.

That said, there are a couple of long-term durability points to consider. We share the concern of one user regarding the plastic T-connectors. While they are thick and seem strong now, their long-term resilience to years of UV exposure and weather remains to be seen compared to all-metal alternatives. Furthermore, the frame is not invincible. Another user reported a top bar getting bent when an adult jumped from it. Our testing confirmed this pool is perfect for what it’s designed for: relaxing, floating, and light play for a small group of people (we found 4 adults or a handful of kids to be comfortable). It is not, however, built for roughhousing or diving. It’s a testament to the pool’s value and ease of use that many owners are enjoying it for a second or third summer.

The Complete Kit: Accessories Under the Microscope

The “all-in-one” nature of this pool set is a huge draw, but the quality of the included accessories is mixed. The sun canopy is a fantastic feature in theory, providing welcome shade on scorching days. It attaches easily and looks great. However, we have significant concerns about its longevity after reading a report of one user’s canopy shredding within five months, well outside the short 90-day warranty. Ours held up during testing, but it doesn’t feel rugged enough to withstand strong winds or a full season of intense sun without care.

The ladder is adequate. It does its job, allowing for entry and exit, but it feels lightweight and has a bit more wobble than we’d like, a sentiment shared by other owners. It’s perfectly usable for kids and average-sized adults exercising caution, but it doesn’t inspire the same confidence as the pool frame itself. The pool cover is similarly functional. It keeps out leaves and bugs effectively, but its design makes it a real chore for one person to put on and take off. The lack of a proper drawstring and the smooth round top rail means it requires a second person to stretch it into place without it slipping off. It works, but it’s not convenient.

The Achilles’ Heel: The Included Filter Pump

This is the single biggest issue with the entire package and the one topic that unites nearly all owners of the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 13′ x 42″ Above Ground Pool. The included 1000 GPH cartridge filter pump is, to put it bluntly, woefully inadequate. For a pool holding 2,941 gallons, a pump needs to be powerful enough to circulate the water effectively to filter out contaminants and distribute chemicals. This pump simply isn’t up to the task. Within days of setup, we found ourselves battling cloudy water despite diligent chemical balancing. The small filter cartridges clog quickly, requiring daily rinsing and frequent replacement, which adds to the running cost.

Our experience was not unique; it’s the most common complaint by a wide margin. Users report having to upgrade almost immediately. As one owner put it, “The pump is absolute crap so invest in a sand filter pump!” We couldn’t agree more. We swapped the included pump for a mid-range sand filter pump, and the difference was night and day. The water became crystal clear within 24 hours and remained so with minimal effort. While the included pump is very quiet, its lack of power is a critical flaw. We strongly advise anyone considering this pool to factor the cost of a pump upgrade (around $150-$300) into their total budget from the outset. You’ll save yourself countless hours of maintenance headaches and enjoy a much cleaner, safer pool. The pool itself is a great investment, but only after you view it as the foundation for a system you will upgrade.

What Other Users Are Saying

Across the board, the user feedback paints a remarkably consistent picture that aligns perfectly with our own findings. The overwhelming positive sentiment revolves around the pool itself. One happy owner called it their “best summer investment,” noting that it gets a lot of playtime and has been “holding up really well.” Another praised the simple setup, stating it was a “great pool” that took only 1.5 hours to assemble alone. The value and ease of assembly are recurring themes, with many, like us, emphasizing that leveling the ground is the only truly difficult step.

On the negative side, the chorus of disapproval for the included pump is impossible to ignore. Comments range from a simple “I would suggest buying a stronger filter” to a more direct “we are now about 300 dollars into upgrading it so that it will filter properly.” This is not an isolated issue but a fundamental flaw in the package. Other, less frequent complaints include quality control issues, such as one user who received a pool that was “damaged straight from the manufacturing warehouse,” and another whose canopy “ripped to shreds within 5 months.” These reports suggest that while the design is solid, manufacturing consistency can sometimes be a concern.

How Does It Compare? The Top 3 Alternatives

The Bestway Steel Pro MAX 13′ x 42″ Above Ground Pool exists in a competitive market. To understand its true value, it’s essential to see how it measures up against other popular options. Here are three alternatives that cater to slightly different needs and budgets.

1. Intex Rectangular Frame Pool

For those with limited space or very young children, the Intex Rectangular Frame Pool is an excellent entry-level option. At just under 10 feet long and 30 inches deep, its footprint is significantly smaller, making it suitable for smaller patios or yards. Its rectangular shape can be more space-efficient, and with a much smaller water capacity, it’s easier and cheaper to maintain. It lacks the depth and swimming area of the Bestway model and doesn’t typically come with a comprehensive accessory package. This is the ideal choice for a family’s very first pool or for toddlers who need a safe, contained splash area.

2. Intex Ultra XTR Deluxe 20ft x 48in Pool Set

If you have the space and a larger budget, the Intex Ultra XTR Deluxe represents a major step up in every category. Its massive 20-foot diameter and 48-inch depth provide a true swimming experience for the whole family. The frame is exceptionally robust, and the liner is designed for ultimate durability. Most importantly, this set includes a powerful 2,100 GPH sand filter pump, addressing the single biggest weakness of the Bestway package right out of the box. This is the choice for someone who wants a more permanent-feeling above-ground pool that will be the centerpiece of their backyard for many years to come.

3. Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15′ x 48″ Above Ground Pool

This is the direct bigger brother to the model we reviewed. Offering an extra two feet in diameter and six inches in depth, the 15′ x 48″ version provides a significant increase in swimming space and water volume. It shares the same Steel Pro MAX construction, Tritech liner, and easy-setup features. It is the logical next step for a family that loves the design and value of the 13′ model but simply wants more room to splash and play. Be aware that the larger water volume makes a pump upgrade even more critical than it is for the 13-foot version.

The Final Verdict: A Great Pool in a Flawed Package

After extensive testing, our conclusion on the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 13′ x 42″ Above Ground Pool is clear: it is an excellent *core* product that provides fantastic value. The pool itself—the frame and the liner—is well-built, durable for its price point, stylish, and incredibly easy to assemble. It’s the perfect size for a small family looking to beat the summer heat without breaking the bank. It creates a wonderful backyard focal point for relaxation and fun.

However, the package is hamstrung by its weakest link: the anemic filter pump. This single component prevents it from being a perfect, out-of-the-box solution. Our final recommendation is this: buy this pool for its superb foundation, but do so with the full knowledge and intention of upgrading the pump immediately. When you factor in the cost of a separate sand filter, the overall price is still highly competitive, and the resulting system is a reliable, easy-to-maintain summer oasis. If you’re ready to create your own backyard escape and understand the need for that one crucial upgrade, then the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 13′ x 42″ Above Ground Pool is an outstanding choice that you can find here.