Above Ground Pool Comparison
Thinking of diving into summer fun without digging up your garden? Above ground swimming pool UK options are your answer.
We’ve compared the top picks—so you don’t have to wade through it all.
Short answer? Steel frame pools win for value and durability.
Keep reading to find your perfect splash match.
Above Ground vs. Inground Pools: What's the Right Choice?
Cost and Installation
If you've ever looked into getting an inground pool, you've probably winced at the price. We're talking tens of thousands—and that’s before the landscaping.
Above ground pools? Way easier on the wallet.
You can pick up a solid steel frame model like the Bestway Pro Max for under £800. Many families manage to set it up in a single weekend, with nothing more than a screwdriver and a bit of teamwork.
Perfect for when you want that summer fun without breaking the bank.
Permanence and Durability
Inground pools are built to last decades. But that kind of permanence isn't always what families want—especially if you’re renting or planning to move.
Steel frame above ground pools offer a great middle ground.
They’re sturdy enough to last for years but still flexible if you need to pack up or change layout.
Our Intex Ultra Frame held up through two rowdy summers with three kids and a dog—and it still looked brand new.
Aesthetics and Customisation
Let’s be honest—inground pools can look stunning. Smooth stone, decked edges, water features... the lot. But not everyone has the space (or budget) for that.
Today’s above ground pools come a long way from the old inflatable doughnuts.
Some, like the Doughboy Regent, are genuinely stylish. Think clean lines, neutral tones, and even mock-wood finishes that don’t scream “temporary”.
You can also dress them up with decking or screens for that permanent look—without the price tag.
Types of Above Ground Pools: Finding Your Perfect Fit
Material Comparison: Steel, Resin, and Hybrid Pools
Steel Frame Pools
These are the workhorses.
Tough, dependable, and built for British summers—rain or shine.
Steel frame pools like the Bestway Steel Pro Max are coated to resist rust and hold firm even with enthusiastic splashers.
They're easy to set up and usually come with strong liners that can handle heavy use.
Great for families who want something solid without the faff.
Resin Frame Pools
Resin pools are a newer player on the scene.
They're lightweight, rust-proof, and more resistant to sun damage.
They don’t get hot to the touch like metal can in direct sunlight—good news for little fingers.
They’re not always as strong as steel, but they need less maintenance overall.
Perfect for a clean, low-maintenance option if you plan to leave it up long-term.
Hybrid Pools
Can’t decide? Go hybrid.
Hybrid pools blend the strength of steel with the low-maintenance benefits of resin.
They tend to be more expensive but also more resilient over time.
Some Doughboy models lean into this style—ideal if you want the best of both worlds without fully committing either way.
Key Factors to Consider Before Buying
Size, Shape, and Depth
Start with your space.
Measure twice—then measure again.
A rectangular pool like the Intex Ultra Frame is brilliant if your kids want to practise their swimming. Round pools are great for family splashabouts.
If your garden’s on the small side, a compact steel frame or even an inflatable model might do the trick.
Think about how deep you want it too. If toddlers are joining in, shallow's safer. Teenagers? Go deeper.
Liner Types (Overlap, Beaded, etc.)
Liners might not sound exciting—but they matter.
Overlap liners are easy to install and budget-friendly, but they’re not as sleek.
Beaded liners snap into place and give a cleaner look, though they can cost more.
What’s key is durability. Look for puncture-resistant designs, especially if your dog thinks the pool is their new water bowl.
Filtration Systems (Sand, Cartridge, DE)
No one wants to swim in murky water.
Most budget above ground pools come with cartridge filters—they’re simple and do the job.
If you’ve got a larger pool or want crystal-clear water, sand filters or DE systems offer better performance.
Whichever you choose, make sure it’s sized properly for your pool. A weak filter is like using a tea strainer to empty a bathtub.
Above Ground Pool Maintenance and Care
Regular Cleaning and Upkeep
Let’s not sugarcoat it—pools need maintenance.
You’ll want to scoop out leaves, balance the chemicals, and check your filter regularly.
A good pool cover is worth its weight in gold and saves you hours of cleaning.
Make it a habit, and it’s a breeze.
Miss a week and… well, you might be rescuing frogs from a green swamp.
Winterising Your Above Ground Pool
In the UK, winter can sneak up fast.
Don’t leave your pool exposed to freezing temps and soggy leaves.
Drain it down (but not all the way), clean the liner, and get a proper winter cover.
Disconnect the pump and store it somewhere dry.
That little bit of effort in autumn means your pool will be ready to go as soon as the first sunny weekend rolls around.
Have you checked out our other posts?
Above Ground Pool Vs Stock Tank
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