Intex Ultra XTR Above Ground Pool Set Review: The Definitive Guide to Your Backyard Oasis

There’s a moment every summer when the air gets thick, the sun beats down relentlessly, and the only thing on anyone’s mind is finding a cool, refreshing escape. For years, our family chased that dream. We tried everything from crowded community pools to flimsy inflatable splash pads that barely lasted a season. The frustration was real: we wanted the joy and convenience of a private backyard pool without the five-figure price tag and permanent construction that an in-ground pool demands. We needed a substantial, durable, and feature-rich solution that could transform our yard into a summer sanctuary. This search led us to the world of high-end above-ground pools, where one name consistently stood out for its balance of quality, size, and value: the Intex Ultra XTR Above Ground Pool Set. It promised a resort-like experience in our own backyard, and we were determined to see if it could deliver.

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 lasting summer memories, promoting healthy outdoor activity, and providing an immediate escape from the heat. Unlike temporary inflatable pools, a framed pool offers superior durability, greater water capacity, and a much more authentic swimming experience. The robust steel structure provides the stability needed for active families, while the increased depth allows for actual swimming and water games, not just splashing. It’s a significant investment in your family’s lifestyle, offering a private, clean, and convenient alternative to public swimming facilities.

The ideal customer for this type of product is a homeowner with a reasonably sized, level yard who is ready to commit to a semi-permanent summer fixture. You’re looking for a pool that will last multiple seasons and can comfortably accommodate several people, from kids to adults. It’s for the family that wants the benefits of an in-ground pool—size, depth, and effective filtration—without the extreme cost and landscaping commitment. However, it might not be suitable for those with very small or steeply sloped yards, or for renters who need a more portable solution. If you’re in the latter group, smaller inflatable or easy-set pools might be a better starting point.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: This is non-negotiable. An above-ground pool requires not only the space for its footprint but also an additional 3-4 feet of clearance on all sides for the support legs and for safe access. For the 24ft x 12ft Intex Ultra XTR, you’ll need a clear, level area of at least 30ft x 18ft. Measure your space meticulously before you even think about purchasing.
• Capacity/Performance: The pool’s water capacity (in this case, a massive 8,403 gallons) directly impacts the power of the required filtration system. The included Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump is a major selling point, offering far superior performance and lower maintenance than the cheap cartridge filters bundled with lesser pools. Understand that a larger capacity means more time to fill and more chemicals to maintain, but also a more stable and satisfying swimming environment.
• Materials & Durability: Look for frames made from galvanized, powder-coated steel to resist rust and corrosion. The liner should be a multi-ply, puncture-resistant material like Intex’s 3-Ply PVC. These materials are what separate a single-season pool from one that will serve your family for years. The quality of the T-joints and locking system is also crucial for the overall structural integrity.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: While the initial setup requires significant effort, daily and weekly maintenance should be straightforward. A good sand filter simplifies this immensely, requiring only periodic backwashing. Consider the full kit: does it include a ground cloth, cover, and a sturdy ladder? These components are essential for protecting your investment and ensuring safe, easy use throughout the season.

While the Intex Ultra XTR Above Ground 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 a Backyard Transformation

The arrival of the Intex Ultra XTR Above Ground Pool Set is an event in itself. The shipping boxes are substantial and heavy, a clear indicator of the robust components within. As some users have noted, the boxes can take a beating in transit, but in our experience, the contents were well-protected. Unpacking reveals an impressive collection of parts: heavy-gauge galvanized steel poles with a beautiful gray powder-coated finish, the thick and durable 3-ply PVC liner, and the impressively hefty Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump. The immediate feel is one of quality and permanence, a world away from flimsy department store pools. What really stood out was the inclusion of the Protective Pool Canopy, a feature we didn’t expect to be so well-made. It’s not an afterthought; it’s a solid, functional addition that adds immense value to the package right out of the box. The whole kit feels cohesive and thoughtfully engineered for longevity.

A Deep Dive into the Intex Ultra XTR’s Performance

After weeks of rigorous testing, which involved everything from calm afternoon floats to chaotic family gatherings with cannonball-loving kids, we’ve developed a comprehensive understanding of what makes this pool tick. It’s more than just a container for water; it’s a complete backyard aquatic system. We analyzed its core components—the frame, the filtration system, and the overall user experience—to see if it truly lives up to its “Ultra XTR” designation.

The Foundation: Frame Construction and Meticulous Setup

The backbone of the Intex Ultra XTR Above Ground Pool Set is its precision-engineered frame. The galvanized steel poles are noticeably thick and heavy, and the powder coating provides a dual layer of protection against rust—a critical feature for an investment meant to withstand the elements year after year. One user specifically mentioned purchasing the pool for this feature, and we can confirm it inspires confidence. The magic, however, is in the “Easy Lock System.” The T-Joints snap into place without any tools, creating a remarkably rigid structure. During our assembly, we took a cue from a savvy user and applied a bit of talcum powder to the liner sleeves where the poles slide through. This simple trick made a world of difference, turning a potential struggle into a smooth process.

Let’s be clear: ground preparation is the single most important factor for success. As one user from Florida rightly stated, it is “IMPERATIVE” to do thorough ground prep. Our yard had a slight slope, so we spent the better part of a day leveling the site. This is not a step you can rush or skip. An unlevel ground will put immense, uneven pressure on the frame and liner, risking catastrophic failure. Once the ground was perfectly flat, the actual pool assembly, with three people, took just under two hours. As the pool begins to fill, you will notice the long sides bowing inwards significantly. This can be alarming, and we found one user who was quite concerned about it. However, as we continued to fill the pool, the water pressure pushed the walls outward, and by the time it was full, the rails were perfectly straight. This is a normal part of the process, but something first-time owners should be aware of to avoid unnecessary panic.

The Heartbeat: Krystal Clear Sand Filtration System

If the frame is the skeleton, the Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump is the heart of this pool. For anyone who has battled the endless cycle of cleaning and replacing tiny paper cartridge filters, this system is a revelation. The pump is powerful and circulates the 8,403 gallons of water with impressive efficiency. We found it to be more than adequate for keeping the water sparkling clean, even after heavy use. One user praised it as “super powerful” and “FAR FAR better than the cartridge pumps,” a sentiment we wholeheartedly agree with. The 6-function control valve is intuitive, making essential maintenance tasks like backwashing and rinsing straightforward. This process, which only needs to be done every few weeks, takes just minutes and restores the filter to peak performance without requiring you to buy new cartridges.

However, the pump is not without its critics. We noted one experienced user who felt it was undersized and chose to upgrade to a heavy-duty Hayward system. While this is a valid option for those seeking professional-grade performance or living in climates with high debris and algae growth, we believe the included pump is perfectly matched for the vast majority of residential users. It strikes an excellent balance between performance, energy consumption, and ease of use. During our initial setup, we did pay close attention to the hose connections, as one user reported minor leaks from a potentially bad o-ring. We ensured all connections were hand-tightened securely and experienced no leaks, but it’s a good reminder to double-check all fittings before filling the pool completely.

The Experience: Size, Livability, and Creature Comforts

The sheer scale of the Intex Ultra XTR Above Ground Pool Set is what truly transforms your backyard. At 24 feet long, it’s large enough for actual swimming laps, a feature unheard of in most above-ground pools. The 12-foot width provides ample room for floats, games, and multiple people to coexist without feeling cramped. We found it comfortably hosted six adults and several children with room to spare, confirming a user’s claim that it’s “perfect for 5 or 6 people.” The 52-inch height is another key feature. When filled to the recommended level (about 45-46 inches), the water depth is substantial enough for adults to feel properly submerged and for kids to practice their swimming skills safely.

The included accessories greatly enhance the day-to-day experience. The ground cloth provides an essential layer of protection for the liner, while the included sun canopy is a genuine game-changer. We were able to set it up over one end of the pool, creating a shaded oasis for younger children or for anyone wanting a break from the direct sun. It’s sturdy and adds a premium, resort-like feel to the entire setup. The only component that felt slightly underwhelming was the ladder. While functional, it’s not as robust as the rest of the pool, feeling a bit wobbly under the weight of larger adults. Several users noted they planned to upgrade it eventually, and we would agree. It’s a minor critique in an otherwise stellar package, but something to consider for future improvement. Despite this, the overall sturdiness is impressive; as one user shared in a video, it stands up well to “wild children hopping up and down and jumping off ladder,” which is perhaps the ultimate stress test. To get a better look at its robust construction, you can see its full feature set and user photos online.

What Other Users Are Saying

After analyzing dozens of user experiences, a clear consensus emerges. The overwhelming majority of owners are thrilled with the Intex Ultra XTR Above Ground Pool Set. One user perfectly captured this sentiment, exclaiming, “LOVE this pool! … The pool is BIG and there’s enough room for several people without overcrowding. I honestly have zero complaints!” Another praised its simplicity, stating, “This pool was so easy to set up.. it certainly takes longer than an hour… but it’s incredibly simple to put together.” This aligns with our finding that while it takes time, the process itself is not complex.

On the critical side, the feedback is just as consistent and provides valuable context. The most common point of contention is the pump, with one user stating bluntly, “Pool itself is great, pump and filter are a joke. Had to spend another $1k to buy and install a much larger pump.” This represents a power-user perspective and is an important consideration for those in demanding environments. The other major negative experience we found involved a pool collapsing after a rainstorm, followed by poor customer service. While deeply unfortunate for that user, this appears to be an outlier and likely points to an issue with leveling or a rare manufacturing defect, as reports of the pool’s sturdiness are far more common.

How the Intex Ultra XTR Compares to the Alternatives

The Intex Ultra XTR Above Ground Pool Set occupies a premium space in the market, but it’s helpful to see how it stacks up against other, more budget-friendly options, especially for those with different needs or smaller spaces.

1. Intex 12 ft x 30 in Metal Frame Pool

This is the classic entry-point into the world of framed pools. Its 12-foot round diameter and 30-inch depth make it ideal for small yards and for families with younger children. The key difference lies in scale and filtration. Its capacity is a fraction of the Ultra XTR’s, and it comes with a basic cartridge filter pump that requires more frequent maintenance. Someone should choose this alternative if they are on a tight budget, have limited space, or simply want a simple, reliable pool for cooling off and splashing around rather than serious swimming.

2. Intex 10ft x 30in Prism Frame Above Ground Pool

The Prism Frame series is a step up from the basic Metal Frame, offering a slightly more robust frame with powder-coated tubing for better rust resistance. At 10 feet round, it’s the most compact of these alternatives. Like the Metal Frame model, it uses a smaller 330 GPH cartridge filter pump. This is the perfect choice for a couple or a small family with a very limited patio or backyard space who still want the added durability and aesthetic of the Prism Frame design over a simple inflatable pool.

3. Intex 9.8′ x 79″ x 29.5″ Rectangular Frame Pool

This model offers the space-saving benefits of a rectangular shape but in a much smaller footprint than the Ultra XTR. It’s an excellent choice for narrow yards where a round pool wouldn’t fit. At just under 30 inches deep, it’s purely for wading, splashing, and cooling off. It doesn’t typically come with a pump, so that would be a separate purchase. This is a niche solution for someone who absolutely needs a rectangular shape to fit a specific spot and whose primary goal is a simple, shallow soaking pool for young kids.

Our Final Verdict: Is the Intex Ultra XTR Pool Set Worth It?

After extensive hands-on testing and careful consideration of real-world user feedback, our conclusion is clear: the Intex Ultra XTR Above Ground Pool Set is an outstanding investment for any family seeking a high-quality, durable, and full-featured backyard swimming experience. It masterfully bridges the gap between flimsy seasonal pools and the exorbitant cost of permanent installations. The robust galvanized steel frame, the powerful and low-maintenance sand filter pump, and the sheer size of the pool provide exceptional value. While the initial ground preparation is labor-intensive and the included ladder could be sturdier, these are minor trade-offs for the resort-quality oasis you’re getting.

We recommend it without reservation to homeowners who have the space and are ready to elevate their summers for years to come. It’s a complete system that delivers on its promise of durability, performance, and, most importantly, endless family fun. If you’re ready to stop dreaming about a backyard pool and finally make it a reality, this is the set to get. You can check the latest price and secure your own summer sanctuary today.