EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool Review: Your Backyard Oasis on a Budget?

There’s a specific moment each year when the summer sun transitions from a gentle warmth to a relentless, sweltering force. It’s the time when the air gets thick, the pavement radiates heat, and the only thought on my mind is finding a cool refuge. For years, that meant either retreating indoors to the hum of the air conditioner or making the trek to a crowded public pool. The dream of a private backyard pool always felt like a distant, expensive luxury reserved for those with sprawling yards and deep pockets. The thought of excavation, permits, and a five-figure price tag was enough to make us sweat for a different reason. We wanted the simple pleasure of cooling off on a whim, of watching the kids splash happily, without the monumental commitment and cost of a traditional in-ground pool. This search for an accessible, affordable, and space-conscious solution is what led us to the world of above-ground pools, and specifically, to the EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool.

What to Consider Before Buying a Framed Swimming Pool

A framed swimming pool is more than just a seasonal toy; it’s a key solution for reclaiming your outdoor space during the hottest months of the year. Unlike flimsy inflatable pools that can be a source of constant punctures and frustration, or the permanent commitment of an in-ground installation, framed pools offer a perfect middle ground. They provide the stability and durability of a rigid structure with the flexibility of a non-permanent setup. The main benefit is bringing the joy and relief of a personal swimming spot to almost any backyard, offering a reliable escape from the heat, a place for family fun, and a wonderful way to relax and de-stress after a long day.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing space constraints, a limited budget, or even rental agreements that prohibit permanent structures. Families with small children who need a safe, manageable-depth pool, couples wanting a personal “soaking pool” to cool off in, or anyone seeking immediate relief from summer heat without a long-term financial burden will find immense value here. Conversely, this type of pool might not be suitable for those who want to swim laps, dive, or host large pool parties. If you have a very large, uneven yard or are looking for a permanent landscaping feature, a more substantial above-ground or in-ground model would be a better, albeit more expensive, alternative.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: The most critical first step is to measure your intended space accurately. Remember to account for not just the pool’s footprint, but also a few feet of clearance on all sides for safe access and setup. The ground must be perfectly level. Even a slight slope can put immense, uneven pressure on the frame and liner, leading to potential failure. Neglecting this step is the single biggest mistake new pool owners make.
• Capacity/Performance: The pool’s volume, measured in gallons, determines water treatment needs and the power required from a filter pump. The EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool holds 439 gallons, a manageable volume for basic chemical maintenance. However, the included pump in many budget-friendly kits is often the bare minimum, so understanding its Gallons Per Hour (GPH) rating is crucial for knowing if it can effectively circulate and clean the water.
• Materials & Durability: The backbone of these pools is the frame and liner. Look for steel frames that are galvanized and powder-coated, like the one on this Evajoy model, as this provides crucial resistance to rust and corrosion. The liner should be a multi-ply, high-gauge PVC that can resist punctures, abrasion, and fading from UV exposure. The quality of these two components will directly determine the pool’s lifespan.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: While setup is a one-time event, maintenance is ongoing. Consider the assembly process—does it require tools or multiple people? For long-term care, you’ll need to regularly test and balance the water chemistry (chlorine, pH), clean or replace filter cartridges, and skim debris. A simple, well-designed system can make this a minor chore rather than a major headache.

While the EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool is an excellent choice for a specific niche, 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 and Key Features of the EVAJOY Pool

The EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool arrived in a single, surprisingly compact box that was nonetheless quite dense. Unboxing revealed a neatly packed collection of components: the folded blue PVC liner, a bundle of powder-coated steel poles, plastic corner joints and T-fittings, and a small box containing the maintenance kit. The initial impression of the materials was positive. The steel poles felt substantial, with a smooth, durable-feeling coating. The PVC liner was thick and heavy, inspiring confidence that it could withstand the rigors of a summer season. It lacked the plasticky, thin feel of cheaper inflatable pools. The advertised three-step assembly process—place, assemble, fill—seemed straightforward on paper, and for the most part, the initial stages lived up to that promise. We immediately noted the rectangular shape, a feature we specifically sought out for its efficient use of space in a long, narrow area of our yard, a clear advantage over the often-awkward footprint of a round pool. Seeing all the parts laid out, it was clear this was designed to be a functional, no-frills entry into backyard water fun, and we were eager to see if its performance would match its promising first look. You can see its full feature set and user reviews on its product page.

A Deep Dive into the EVAJOY Pool’s Performance

After spending significant time with the EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool, from setup to daily use, we’ve developed a comprehensive understanding of its strengths and weaknesses. This isn’t just a pool; it’s a complete package with distinct characteristics that are crucial for a potential buyer to understand. We broke down our analysis into the key stages of ownership: assembly, structural integrity, included accessories, and the everyday experience.

Assembly and Setup: A Tale of Two Halves

Evajoy advertises a “fast and easy three-step assembly,” and for the first 90% of the process, that claim holds true. The first crucial step, which we cannot over-emphasize, is site preparation. We chose a spot, cleared it of all debris, and spent nearly an hour ensuring the ground was perfectly level. As many experienced users will attest, this is non-negotiable. Placing the pool on even a slight incline will cause bowing and place dangerous, uneven stress on the frame. Once our site was prepared, we unfolded the liner and let it warm in the sun for about 20 minutes to make it more pliable.

Assembling the frame was intuitive. The steel poles slide through sleeves at the top of the liner, and the vertical legs attach via T-fittings. Everything clicked together smoothly until we reached the final connection. This is where the process grinds to a halt and requires a new strategy. Like many other users who reported this exact issue, we found it seemingly impossible to connect the last horizontal pole. The tension on the liner was simply too great for one person to overcome. This is not a design flaw but a function of the tension required for a taut, stable pool. After a few minutes of fruitless struggle, we adopted a technique echoed in user feedback: it became a two-person job. One person used their feet to push against the vertical leg while the other person pulled the horizontal poles apart, creating just enough slack to slide the final piece into place. It required a bit of muscle, but it worked. The entire setup, excluding ground preparation, took about 45 minutes with two people. The plastic corner joints and clips felt adequate, but we did note one user’s report of all four corners cracking within a month, which is a significant concern for long-term durability and something to monitor closely.

Frame Strength and Liner Durability: Built to Last (With Caveats)

Once filled, the true quality of the pool’s core structure becomes apparent. The galvanized, powder-coated steel frame is the star of the show. It feels incredibly solid and provided us with a great deal of confidence. We live in an area prone to strong afternoon winds, and as one user in a windy location noted, this pool holds up great. There was no unnerving wobbling or shifting; the frame remained rigid and secure. This stability is a key selling point and a major reason to choose a framed pool over an inflatable one. The EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool truly delivers on its promise of “reliable stability.”

The “rugged” high-gauge PVC liner also performed well during our testing. It feels thick to the touch, and we took care during setup to avoid dragging it over any sharp objects, as advised by a savvy user who treated it like a delicate inflatable during installation. We did notice, as another user did, a small amount of water seeming to seep from underneath for the first day. We marked the water level and prepared for a lengthy leak-finding mission, but by the next morning, the seepage had stopped and the water level was stable. Our conclusion is that this was likely the liner stretching and settling into its final shape, forcing out tiny amounts of trapped water. However, it’s worth noting another user’s experience of developing two leaks after two months, one on the bottom and one in a seam. While our liner held up perfectly, this feedback suggests that while it’s tough, it’s not invincible, and careful ground preparation with a ground cloth or mat is highly recommended.

The Achilles’ Heel: Pump, Filter, and Included Accessories

If the frame is the hero of this story, the included maintenance kit—specifically the filter pump—is the undeniable villain. This is a recurring theme in nearly every budget-friendly pool kit, and the EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool is no exception. To put it bluntly, the included pump is woefully inadequate. Users described it as a “joke” and “terrible,” and our experience confirms this. While it does circulate water, its flow rate is so low that it struggles to create meaningful suction or filter the 439-gallon capacity effectively. We found ourselves running it for 8+ hours a day just to maintain a baseline of clarity, all while worrying about the electricity bill.

Furthermore, the system lacks basic usability features, most notably shut-off valves. This turns the simple task of cleaning the filter into a frantic, wet ordeal. As one clever user detailed, the only way to do it without draining the pool is to block the inlet and outlet nozzles from inside the pool (they suggested a Ziploc bag with a rubber band), quickly unscrew the filter housing while water spills, hose off the cartridge, and reassemble everything before your makeshift plugs fail. It’s a messy and inefficient process. Our strong recommendation is to consider the included pump as a temporary placeholder. Budgeting an extra amount for a more powerful cartridge or sand filter pump from a reputable brand will transform your pool maintenance experience from a daily frustration into a simple routine. The value is in the pool structure itself, and it’s worth investing in a better pump to protect that investment and keep your water sparkling clean.

Everyday Use and Livability: A Compact Soaking Sanctuary

With its challenges understood and managed, how is the EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool to live with? In a word: delightful. It’s crucial to set expectations correctly. At roughly 7 feet long, 5 feet wide, and just under 2 feet deep, this is not a pool for swimming laps. It is, as one owner perfectly described it, a “soaking pool.” And in that role, it excels. It’s the perfect size for two adults to sit comfortably with a cool drink, or for a few small children to splash and play safely. It turns a patch of unused backyard into the most popular spot in the house on a hot afternoon.

We were particularly moved by the story of one owner with post-Covid dysautonomia, who found the pool to be a life-changing tool for their rehabilitation, allowing them to perform necessary supine exercises at home. This highlights the pool’s versatility beyond simple recreation. For families with limited yard space, its value is immense. As another parent noted, “This pool is ideal for my children since we don’t have much space in the yard.” It provides a genuine pool experience—more than just getting your feet wet—in a footprint that fits where a larger round pool won’t. It’s a lifesaver in 95-degree weather and a fantastic way to create summer memories without leaving home. The everyday joy it provides is a feature that really sets it apart.

What Other Users Are Saying

Across the board, the user sentiment for the EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool forms a consistent narrative. The positive feedback overwhelmingly centers on the pool’s sturdiness and value. One happy customer noted, “It is really windy where we live and this pool holds up great, the frame is solid.” Another, who bought a larger model for their kids, called it the “Best $71 I spend for my kids.” Many agree that for the price, the quality of the frame and liner is impressive and provides a perfect solution for small spaces and hot weather.

However, the criticisms are just as consistent and serve as important warnings. The most significant and concerning issue revolves around parts durability and customer support. One user had a harrowing experience, writing, “We are now 3 days into June and all 4 of the corner pieces have cracks in them.” When they contacted support, they discovered the warranty was only 30 days and they would have to purchase replacements. This extremely short warranty period and poor support response is a major red flag. The other universal complaint is the included pump. Comments range from “the filter pump is not the best but definitely better than nothing” to “The pump is terrible.” This feedback solidifies our own finding that a pump upgrade is not just a suggestion, but a near necessity for a frustration-free experience.

How Does the EVAJOY Pool Compare to the Competition?

While the EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool carves out a nice niche, it’s not the only player in the game. Understanding how it stacks up against well-known alternatives is key to making an informed decision.

1. Bestway Steel Pro 10 Foot Round Above Ground Pool with Filter Pump

The Bestway Steel Pro offers a classic round pool design from a major brand. At 10 feet in diameter, it provides more overall surface area than the Evajoy, which might be better for multiple kids who want to splash around. However, that round shape can be less space-efficient in smaller or rectangular yards. Both pools feature steel frames and PVC liners, but Bestway’s brand recognition might offer more peace of mind for some buyers. The primary trade-off is shape and brand versus the Evajoy’s space-saving rectangular design. If you have a square-ish area and prioritize a larger play space over a soaking-oriented footprint, the Bestway is a strong contender.

2. Intex 9.8′ x 79″ Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool

This Intex model is perhaps the most direct competitor to the Evajoy pool. It’s also a rectangular frame pool, with slightly larger dimensions (nearly 10 feet long). Intex is arguably the most recognized name in the above-ground pool market, which carries a lot of weight. This particular model, however, often ships without a filter pump, meaning you’ll have to purchase one separately from the start. The Evajoy includes a (weak) pump, giving it a slight edge in out-of-the-box readiness. The choice here comes down to brand loyalty, a slight size difference, and whether you prefer an all-in-one (but flawed) package or buying your components à la carte.

3. Intex 12ft x 30in Metal Frame Pool Set

Stepping up to the Intex 12ft round pool represents a move to a different class. It holds significantly more water (1,718 gallons vs. Evajoy’s 439) and at 30 inches deep, it offers a more immersive experience for older kids and adults. This set includes a more capable 530 GPH cartridge filter pump, addressing the biggest weakness of the Evajoy. This is the better choice for someone with more space, a slightly larger budget, and the desire for a “proper” small pool rather than a large soaking tub. It’s less of a direct competitor and more of the logical next step up in the above-ground pool ladder.

The Final Word: Is the EVAJOY Metal Frame Pool Right for You?

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the EVAJOY 85in x 23in x 59in Metal Frame Swimming Pool is one of qualified recommendation. It succeeds brilliantly in its primary mission: to provide an affordable, sturdy, and space-efficient way to cool off during the summer. The steel frame is robust, the liner is tough, and its rectangular shape is a godsend for those with unconventional yard spaces. For its intended purpose as a soaking pool for adults or a splash pad for young children, it offers tremendous value and can be a source of immense daily joy.

However, this recommendation comes with two major caveats. First, you must be prepared to replace the underpowered filter pump, if not immediately, then very soon. Factoring in the cost of a better pump is essential for a good ownership experience. Second, the potential for brittle plastic components and the reports of very poor customer support and a short warranty are significant risks. If you’re on a strict budget, understand these limitations, and are willing to take a chance for a very low entry price, this pool can be a fantastic summer addition. It’s an excellent entry point into the world of backyard pools, delivering 90% of the fun for 10% of the cost. If you’re ready to create your own personal oasis and beat the heat, we recommend you check the latest price and availability and get ready to splash.