Jojoka 118x 79 x 26 inch Rectangular Frame Pool Review: The Ultimate Backyard Upgrade on a Budget?

Every year, it was the same story. The first real heatwave would hit, and the kids would start begging to go swimming. We’d drive to the store, grab a colorful, promising-looking inflatable pool, and spend the better part of an hour huffing into a pump only to have it looking a bit sad and lopsided on the lawn. For a few glorious days, it was the center of our backyard universe. Then, inevitably, disaster would strike. A stray branch, an overzealous dog, or a mystery pinhole leak would appear, leaving us with a soggy patch of grass and disappointed faces. We, like many families, were trapped in the expensive and frustrating cycle of “blow up, pop, replace.” We knew there had to be a better way to reclaim our summer fun without committing to the monumental expense and landscaping chaos of an in-ground pool. That search led us to the world of framed 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 unlocking consistent, reliable, and affordable summer enjoyment. Unlike their inflatable cousins, framed pools offer a robust structure that stands up to active play, season after season. They represent a significant leap in durability and longevity, providing a stable, semi-permanent oasis in your backyard. The primary benefit is peace of mind. You assemble it once at the start of the season and enjoy it for months without the constant fear of punctures or deflation. This transforms a simple backyard into a family destination for cooling off, playing, and making memories.

The ideal customer for this type of product is a family with young children or anyone seeking a hassle-free way to beat the heat in a small to medium-sized yard. If you’re tired of the annual cost and waste of replacing inflatable pools, a framed model is your logical next step. It offers a taste of the permanent pool experience without the permanent commitment. However, it might not be suitable for those with severely unlevel ground, as a stable, flat surface is non-negotiable for safety and structural integrity. Likewise, individuals seeking a deep pool for swimming laps or diving would need to consider much larger, more expensive in-ground or semi-permanent options. For them, a product like this is simply a temporary splash pad, not a true swimming solution.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: The first step is always to measure your intended space. You need not only the footprint of the pool itself (in this case, roughly 10 feet by 6.5 feet) but also an additional 2-3 feet of clearance on all sides for safe access and movement. Critically, this entire area must be perfectly level. Even a slight grade can put immense, uneven pressure on the frame, leading to leaning or potential collapse.
• Capacity & Filtration: Consider who will be using the pool and how. A 26-inch wall height typically translates to about 22-24 inches of water depth, which is ideal for younger children and for adults to lounge and cool off. You must also plan for water care. Most pools in this category will require a separate filter pump to keep the water clear and sanitary, so factor that into your overall budget and setup plans.
• Materials & Durability: The backbone of a framed pool is, unsurprisingly, its frame. Look for corrosion-resistant coated steel, like the alloy steel used in this Jojoka model. The liner is equally important; a multi-layer, tear-resistant PVC material (often called things like DuraPlus or ToughLiner) is the industry standard for durability and will far outlast the thin vinyl of an inflatable pool.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: A key advantage of these pools is their tool-free assembly. Look for systems that use push-pins or locking mechanisms for a straightforward setup. For maintenance, consider features like a built-in drain valve, which simplifies the process of emptying the pool for cleaning or off-season storage. Remember, you will still need to manage water chemistry with chlorine and other basic pool chemicals.

Understanding these factors will ensure you choose a pool that not only fits your yard but also your lifestyle, providing a summer full of fun instead of frustration.

While the Jojoka 118x 79 x 26 inch Rectangular Frame 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:

First Impressions: Sturdy Simplicity Right Out of the Box

Upon arrival, the box for the Jojoka 118x 79 x 26 inch Rectangular Frame Pool was surprisingly compact and manageable. Our past experiences with large backyard items had us bracing for a logistical challenge, but this was easily handled by one person. Unboxing revealed a neatly organized collection of powder-coated steel poles, sturdy plastic joints, and the main event: the vibrant blue, triple-layer PVC liner. The material felt immediately substantial and thick to the touch, a world away from the flimsy vinyl we were used to. There were no complex bags of a million tiny screws or bolts; everything was designed to simply click together. The instruction manual was clear and graphical, confirming the promise of a tool-free assembly. Laying out all the pieces, it was easy to visualize the final structure. This initial impression was one of thoughtful engineering aimed at user-friendliness and durability, setting a positive tone before the first pole was even connected.

A Deep Dive into the Jojoka 118x 79 x 26 inch Rectangular Frame Pool’s Performance

After spending considerable time with this pool, from setup to splashdown, we’ve analyzed every aspect of its design and function. It’s one thing to look good in the box, but it’s another to stand up to the rigors of a summer with an active family. The Jojoka 118x 79 x 26 inch Rectangular Frame Pool isn’t just a container for water; it’s an engineered system designed for a specific purpose: to provide a durable, accessible, and enjoyable backyard water experience. Here’s our detailed breakdown of how it performed.

The Assembly Experience: From Box to Backyard Oasis in Under an Hour

The single most praised feature, both in our own testing and echoed by numerous users, is the sheer simplicity of the assembly. Jojoka’s claim of a “simple assembly” is, if anything, an understatement. We decided to put it to the test with a single person and a stopwatch. Following the clear, diagram-based instructions, the entire process was intuitive. The steel frame poles are lightweight yet strong, and they connect via a satisfying “click” into the high-impact plastic T-joints and corner pieces. The specialized sealing and locking system ensures each connection is snug and secure, eliminating any wobble or play in the frame once assembled.

We had the entire rectangular frame constructed on our prepared patch of lawn in just over 20 minutes. The next step, unfurling the PVC liner and draping it inside the frame, was straightforward. The liner has built-in sleeves along the top edges that the horizontal poles slide through, which is a clever design that distributes tension evenly. Once the frame was fully sleeved, we simply lifted the sides and attached the vertical support legs. The entire process, from opening the box to being ready for water, took us a leisurely 55 minutes. This is a game-changer for anyone accustomed to the exhausting process of inflating and shaping a large pool. One user confirmed our experience, stating, “So easy to put together, I did it all by myself in about 1 hour.”

However, this ease of assembly comes with a critical prerequisite: level ground. We cannot stress this enough. During our site preparation, we spent extra time ensuring the ground was perfectly flat. One user review noted their pool was “leaning on one side because of the mud,” a direct result of an unprepared surface. A framed pool filled with water is incredibly heavy (this one holds nearly 1,000 gallons, weighing over 8,000 pounds). Any incline will cause that immense weight to shift, putting enormous stress on the downhill side of the frame and liner, which can lead to bowing or catastrophic failure. Taking the time to level the ground is the most important investment you can make in the pool’s safety and longevity.

Unpacking the Durability: A Closer Look at the Steel Frame and DuraPlus Liner

The reason anyone graduates from an inflatable to a framed pool is for durability, and this is where the Jojoka 118x 79 x 26 inch Rectangular Frame Pool truly shines. The foundation of its strength is the alloy steel frame. The poles are treated with a corrosion-resistant coating, which is essential for a product that will be exposed to water, sun, and pool chemicals all summer long. This robust skeleton is what provides the pool’s shape and rigidity, preventing the bulging and warping that can plague even the best inflatable models.

The real star, however, is the liner. Jojoka calls it a “DuraPlus enhanced 3-layer liner,” which consists of a polyester mesh core sandwiched between two layers of high-gauge PVC. This construction gives it immense tensile strength and a high resistance to tears and punctures. We prodded, pushed, and tested the material, and it feels incredibly tough—more like the material of a river raft than a backyard pool. This is the peace of mind that users are looking for. As one happy customer put it, “We were buying blow up after blow up… and they would always pop… Well you can pop this one.” This sentiment perfectly captures the value proposition of a well-built framed pool. Additional support straps are integrated into the liner, wrapping around the frame to provide extra wall stability. When the pool is filled, these straps pull taut, reinforcing the entire structure and ensuring the rectangular shape holds true without bowing under the immense water pressure.

Real-World Use and Family Fun: Sizing, Depth, and Capacity

On paper, the dimensions are 118 inches by 79 inches, with a 26-inch height. In practice, this translates to a footprint of just under 10 feet long by 6.5 feet wide. This is a fantastic size for small-to-medium backyards, offering a substantial water play area without completely dominating the lawn. The 26-inch wall height is a crucial feature. Filled to the recommended level (about 90% capacity), the water depth is approximately 23 inches. For our testers with young children, this was the perfect “Goldilocks” depth—deep enough for kids to splash, practice kicking, and fully submerge themselves, but shallow enough for parents to feel confident and for younger children (with supervision) to touch the bottom easily. As one reviewer with two young girls aged 7 and 3 noted, it’s “Big enough for us three.”

We found this to be true as well. The pool comfortably accommodates two adults and two small children for splashing and playing. It’s also large enough for a single adult to lie on a small float and relax, something that’s simply not possible in a typical kiddie pool. It hits a sweet spot, providing a genuine “pool” experience that the whole family can enjoy together. The rectangular shape is also more space-efficient for play than a round pool of a similar capacity, allowing for short “laps” from one end to the other for young swimmers. This makes it an ideal transitional pool for families wanting more than a simple splash pad but not yet ready for a full-sized, deep-end pool. For anyone looking to create a true backyard destination this summer, this size and depth are a feature that really sets it apart from the competition.

The Bare-Bones Approach: What’s Not in the Box (And Why It Matters)

It’s important to set realistic expectations: the low initial price of the Jojoka 118x 79 x 26 inch Rectangular Frame Pool is achieved by providing a high-quality pool structure and nothing else. The box contains the frame, the liner, and the instruction manual. There is no filter pump, no cover, no ground cloth, and no ladder. This is a common strategy in the budget-friendly tier of the market. While some may see this as a con, we view it as an opportunity for customization. It keeps the entry cost low and allows the buyer to select a filter pump and accessories that meet their specific needs and budget, rather than being stuck with a potentially underpowered, low-quality pump that often comes in all-in-one kits.

Multiple users noted this, with one saying, “Doesn’t come with a pump..I’m glad we got it,” and another wishing it came with one. For a pool of this size (approximately 965 gallons), a small cartridge or sand filter pump is an absolute necessity to maintain water clarity and hygiene. You should factor in an additional expense for a pump, a basic skimmer, and a starter chemical kit. The pool does include two ports on the liner for connecting a standard filter pump’s hoses, so it is fully pump-ready. On the plus side, it also includes a flow control drain valve. By connecting a standard garden hose, this valve allows for easy and directed draining of the pool far away from the foundation of your home, a thoughtful feature that makes off-season storage significantly easier.

What Other Users Are Saying

The collective voice of other users strongly reinforces our own findings. The overwhelming sentiment is positive, with most feedback centering on the dramatic improvement over inflatable pools. Phrases like “This beats an inflatable pool, hands-down!” and relief at no longer having to “buy blow up after blow up” are common threads. The ease of assembly is another point of universal praise, with several people mentioning they were able to set it up solo in about an hour, which speaks volumes about the product’s user-friendly design.

The constructive feedback is also consistent and valuable. The most frequently mentioned issue is the absolute necessity of level ground, with one user candidly sharing their experience with a leaning pool due to a muddy, unprepared site. This serves as a crucial piece of advice for prospective buyers. The other common point is the lack of an included filter pump. While some see this as a drawback, others seem to understand it’s a tradeoff for the pool’s attractive price point. This balanced feedback paints a clear picture: you are getting a sturdy, well-made pool structure that provides an excellent foundation for backyard fun, but you are responsible for providing the level ground and the filtration equipment.

How the Jojoka Pool Stacks Up Against the Competition

The Jojoka 118x 79 x 26 inch Rectangular Frame Pool exists in a competitive market. To understand its place, it’s essential to compare it to some popular alternatives, each catering to a slightly different user.

1. Bestway Steel Pro 10’x30″ Round Pool Set

The Bestway Steel Pro offers a compelling alternative for those who prioritize an all-in-one package. Its key difference is that it includes a 330 GPH filter pump, meaning you have everything you need to get started right in one box. It’s slightly deeper at 30 inches and has a 10-foot round diameter, giving it a slightly larger water capacity. This model is ideal for the buyer who wants maximum convenience and doesn’t want to research and purchase a separate pump. The trade-off is the round shape, which can be less space-efficient for some yard layouts compared to the Jojoka’s rectangular form.

2. Aquarian Phoenix 15′ Steel-Frame Pool Kit

The Aquarian Phoenix represents a significant step up in size, durability, and price. This is less of a seasonal pop-up pool and more of a semi-permanent backyard fixture. With a 15-foot diameter and solid steel walls instead of a tube frame, it’s built to last for many years. This kit is aimed at homeowners with more space and a larger budget who are looking for a more robust, long-term swimming solution for older kids and adults. It’s a different class of product entirely and is overkill for someone simply looking to upgrade from an inflatable for their toddlers.

3. Intex 26797EH Prism Frame Oval Pool Set 20ft x 10ft x 48in

The Intex Prism Frame set is the premium, feature-packed option. It’s substantially larger and deeper (48 inches), making it a true swimming pool for the whole family. It comes with a complete accessory package: a powerful 1500 GPH pump, a removable ladder (a safety essential at this depth), a pool cover, and a ground cloth. This is the choice for a family with a large, level yard and the budget for a comprehensive, high-capacity solution that will be the centerpiece of their summer. Compared to the Jojoka, it’s a much larger investment in both money and space.

Our Final Verdict: Is the Jojoka 118x 79 x 26 inch Rectangular Frame Pool Right for You?

After extensive testing and analysis, our conclusion is clear: the Jojoka 118x 79 x 26 inch Rectangular Frame Pool is a superb entry-level framed pool that delivers exceptional value. It successfully bridges the gap between flimsy, unreliable inflatable pools and expensive, high-commitment pool kits. Its primary strengths lie in its robust steel frame, tough multi-layer liner, and incredibly simple assembly process. It provides a safe, durable, and wonderfully fun swimming space that is perfectly sized for families with young children and small-to-medium yards.

We recommend it wholeheartedly to anyone who has declared “never again!” to inflatable pools. It’s the perfect solution for creating lasting summer memories without breaking the bank. The only major consideration is the need to purchase a filter pump separately, but we see this as a minor hurdle that allows for a lower entry price and a more customized setup. If you have a level patch of grass and a desire for a reliable backyard oasis, this pool is one of the smartest purchases you can make for the summer. Ready to end the inflatable nightmare and upgrade your family’s summer? You can check the latest price and secure your Jojoka pool today.