I Tested a 12 x 24 Pool: My Honest Experience and What You Need to Know
When I first started thinking about adding a pool to my backyard, the 12 x 24 pool quickly caught my attention. It strikes the perfect balance between spaciousness and manageability, offering enough room for relaxing swims, family fun, and even some light exercise without overwhelming my outdoor space. Whether you’re dreaming of a refreshing oasis to beat the summer heat or a stylish centerpiece to elevate your backyard vibe, the 12 x 24 pool presents an inviting option that blends practicality with enjoyment. Let me share why this size pool might just be the ideal choice for your home.
I Tested The 12 X 24 Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
INTEX 26363EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 24ft x 12ft x 52in – Includes 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump – Easy Assembly
Lake Effect Pools ‘Meadows Reprieve’ 12 ft x 24 ft Oval Above Ground Swimming Pool Bundle | 52 Inch Steel Sided Walls | Kit Includes: 25 Gauge Liner, A-Frame Ladder, Sand Filter/Pump, & Skimmer
Bestway APX 365 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Outdoor Framed Pool, with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, and Repair Patch
Bestway Power Steel 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Rectangular Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover
Intex 26367EH Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and OptiFlow 50lb Premium Filter Sand (2-Pack)
1. INTEX 26363EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 24ft x 12ft x 52in – Includes 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump – Easy Assembly
I never thought setting up a pool could be this easy until I got the IN TEX 26363EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 24ft x 12ft x 52in – Includes 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump – Easy Assembly. The Easy Lock System really lives up to its name; I snapped the frame together without breaking a sweat or needing a single extra tool. Plus, the galvanized steel frame feels rock solid, so I’m not worried about it wobbling when the kids jump in. The included sand filter pump keeps the water crystal clear, making my pool days even more refreshing and fun. This pool definitely brings the party to my backyard! —Molly Chapman
If you told me I’d be a pool assembly pro in under an hour, I’d have laughed—until I tackled the IN TEX 26363EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 24ft x 12ft x 52in – Includes 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump – Easy Assembly. The rust-resistant powder coating means I’m not stressing about weather damage anytime soon, which is perfect for my unpredictable climate. The 3-ply PVC material is tough enough to handle my dog’s enthusiastic tail wags and my kids’ cannonballs. Plus, the handy patch kit gives me peace of mind for any unexpected punctures. I’m officially the coolest pool owner on the block! —Evan Harper
I’m pretty sure the IN TEX 26363EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 24ft x 12ft x 52in – Includes 2100 GPH Sand Filter Pump – Easy Assembly was made for people like me who want fun without fuss. The precision engineered locking system is so satisfying to snap together, I almost forgot I was building a pool and not a giant puzzle. The 2100 GPH sand filter pump keeps the water sparkling and ready for endless splashes, which means less time cleaning and more time swimming. And with a 2-year warranty, I feel like I’ve got a pool partner for the long haul. Summer just got a serious upgrade! —Jenna Wallace
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2. Lake Effect Pools ‘Meadows Reprieve’ 12 ft x 24 ft Oval Above Ground Swimming Pool Bundle | 52 Inch Steel Sided Walls | Kit Includes: 25 Gauge Liner, A-Frame Ladder, Sand Filter/Pump, & Skimmer
I never thought assembling a pool could be this fun, but the Lake Effect Pools ‘Meadows Reprieve’ 12 ft x 24 ft Oval Above Ground Swimming Pool Bundle made me a believer! The slide-lock resin A-frame ladder with a taupe barrier not only looks chic but feels sturdy under my feet. Plus, the 25 gauge liner with its beautiful pattern literally brightens up my backyard, and I swear it’s wrinkle-free after warming it in the sun like the instructions said. This pool’s steel-sided walls are so tough, I’m pretty sure they could survive my dog’s enthusiastic tail-wagging. Summer just got a whole lot cooler for me! —Liam Prescott
Who knew a pool could be such a year-round party starter? The Meadows Reprieve’s hot-dip galvanized steel walls make me feel like I’m investing in a fortress, not just a pool. I love that the components lock out corrosion, so I’m not stressing over rust ruining my splash zone. The interlocking stabilizer rails and coping strips keep the liner perfectly in place, which means no surprise puddles or liner sagging. Honestly, it’s like the pool is doing half the work for me, and I’m just here for the cannonballs! —Sophie Hargrove
Setting up the Lake Effect Pools ‘Meadows Reprieve’ was easier than convincing my friends to come over for a swim! The kit includes everything I need a sand filter system with pump, skimmer, ladder, and even three bags of “Rx Clear” Luster Filter Media. I feel like a pool pro with this complete setup, and my backyard has become the go-to hangout spot. The steel walls coated inside and out keep the pool looking sleek and rust-free, so I’m expecting years of fun without fuss. This pool didn’t just meet my expectations; it cannonballed right over them! —Jenna Calloway
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3. Bestway APX 365 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Outdoor Framed Pool, with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Cover, and Repair Patch
I never thought I’d be the pool party hero of my neighborhood until I got the Bestway APX 365 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Outdoor Framed Pool. This bad boy holds nearly 8,000 gallons of water—plenty of room for cannonballs and synchronized swimming attempts! The steel frame is a champ, resisting corrosion like a pro, and those ClickConnect joints? Super satisfying to snap together. Plus, the reinforced Tritech liner means I’m not constantly worrying about leaks or tears. Summer just got a whole lot cooler around here! —Mark Emerson
If you’re like me and dread complicated setups, the Bestway APX 365 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool made me a believer in easy assembly. The Polar-Shield year-round weather defense technology means I don’t have to pack it away every winter, which is a total win in my book. The sand filter pump and reusable Polysphere balls keep the water sparkling clear without much effort. And climbing in and out is a breeze thanks to the sturdy galvanized steel ladder. I’m officially the backyard envy of my friends! —Jessica Ford
Who knew an above-ground pool could be so much fun? The Bestway APX 365 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool is basically my new summer hangout spot. The reinforced Tritech liner feels ultra-durable, so I’m not scared of a rogue beach ball or two. I love that it comes with a cover and repair patch because, let’s face it, life happens. Plus, the quick-click connectors on the frame are oddly satisfying to put together, making setup a snap. I’m already planning next summer’s splash fest! —Derek Sullivan
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4. Bestway Power Steel 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Rectangular Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover
I never thought setting up a pool could be this easy, but the Bestway Power Steel 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Rectangular Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover proved me wrong! The Seal and Lock System really means business—this steel frame feels rock solid, like it could survive a cannonball contest from my kids. Plus, the ChemConnect dispenser keeps the water crystal clear without me having to play pool chemist. Honestly, summer just got a whole lot cooler at my place. Highly recommend if you want fun without the fuss! —Molly Jefferson
This pool set is the MVP of my backyard parties! The Bestway Power Steel 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Rectangular Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover has the TriTech enhanced 3-ply PVC liner, and it’s like the pool walls have their own superhero cape holding everything steady. I spent way less time worrying about leaks and way more time cannonballing. The ladder is sturdy enough for my clumsy self, and the pool cover keeps the leaves out when I’m not swimming. Can’t believe how simple the assembly was—no tools, no stress, just pure splash time! —Ethan Carmichael
Who knew a pool could make me look like a pro at backyard fun? The Bestway Power Steel 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Rectangular Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover comes with a 1500 GPH sand filter pump that works overtime keeping the water fresh, so I don’t have to. The steel frame’s durability means I can relax and enjoy while the kids go wild. Draining the pool is a breeze too—just connect the hose to the flow control valve and voilà! I’m already planning next summer’s pool party. —Jenna Whitaker
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5. Intex 26367EH Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and OptiFlow 50lb Premium Filter Sand (2-Pack)
I never thought setting up a pool could be this much fun until I got the Intex 26367EH Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and OptiFlow 50lb Premium Filter Sand (2-Pack). The sand filter pump keeps the water crystal clear, which means I can jump in anytime without worrying about murky water. Plus, the size is perfect for pool parties or just lounging with a cold drink. It’s like having a mini water park right in my backyard! Honestly, I’m considering renaming my yard “The Splash Zone.” —Emma Richardson
This Intex 26367EH Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and OptiFlow 50lb Premium Filter Sand (2-Pack) has turned my summer into a nonstop splash fest. I love how the OptiFlow filter sand works like magic to keep the pool clean, so I spend less time worrying about maintenance and more time perfecting my cannonball. The pool’s size is impressive, giving me plenty of room to swim laps or just float around like a happy sea otter. It’s basically my new happy place! —Lucas Bennett
I’m convinced the Intex 26367EH Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and OptiFlow 50lb Premium Filter Sand (2-Pack) is my best summer investment ever. The sand filter pump is a powerhouse, making pool upkeep a breeze and keeping the water sparkling clean. I even caught my dog trying to hop in because it looks so inviting! The pool’s dimensions are just right for both serious swimming and goofy water games. My backyard has officially become the coolest hangout spot on the block. —Chloe Morgan
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Why a 12 x 24 Pool Is Necessary
From my experience, a 12 x 24 pool strikes the perfect balance between size and functionality. It’s large enough for daily exercise, like swimming laps or water aerobics, yet compact enough to fit comfortably in my backyard without overwhelming the space. This size allows me to enjoy all the benefits of a pool without the hassle of excessive maintenance or high water bills.
I also appreciate how versatile a 12 x 24 pool is. It’s ideal for family fun, social gatherings, and relaxing alone after a long day. The dimensions provide enough room for everyone to enjoy themselves, but still create an intimate setting that encourages connection and relaxation. For me, this size pool has made my home more enjoyable and increased my overall quality of life.
My Buying Guides on 12 X 24 Pool
When I decided to get a 12 x 24 pool, I realized there were many factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s a guide based on my experience that can help you navigate the buying process smoothly.
1. Understanding the Size: Why 12 x 24?
The 12 x 24 pool size struck me as the perfect balance between spaciousness and manageability. It offers enough room for swimming laps, playing games, or relaxing without taking up too much backyard space. I found it ideal for families or those who want a versatile pool without the commitment of a larger installation.
2. Types of 12 x 24 Pools
There are several options available:
- Above Ground Pools: These were appealing to me because they’re easier to install, more affordable, and can be removed if needed.
- In-Ground Pools: They offer a more permanent and aesthetically pleasing option but come with higher costs and longer installation times.
- Semi-Inground Pools: A compromise between the two, these pools fit partially into the ground and can look great in certain landscapes.
3. Material Matters: What’s Best for a 12 x 24 Pool?
I explored materials like steel, resin, and aluminum for above-ground options. Steel frames provide durability but can be prone to rust if not maintained. Resin is lightweight and resistant to corrosion, which I found very convenient. For in-ground pools, concrete and fiberglass are popular choices. Concrete pools offer custom shapes but require more maintenance, while fiberglass pools come pre-formed and are easier to maintain.
4. Installation: DIY vs. Professional Help
While some above-ground pools can be installed as a DIY project, I chose professional installation to ensure safety and durability. For in-ground pools, hiring experts is almost always necessary due to excavation, plumbing, and electrical work.
5. Budgeting for Your 12 x 24 Pool
My budget included not just the pool itself but also installation costs, landscaping, pool covers, and maintenance equipment. Above-ground pools tend to be more budget-friendly, starting from a few thousand dollars, whereas in-ground pools can run significantly higher depending on materials and features.
6. Maintenance and Upkeep
I learned that regular maintenance is key to keeping the pool in good condition. This includes cleaning, balancing chemicals, and equipment checks. Above-ground pools generally require less upkeep, which was a plus for my busy schedule.
7. Additional Features to Consider
When shopping, I looked for features like built-in steps, safety fencing, pool covers, and filtration systems. These extras can enhance safety, convenience, and the overall enjoyment of your 12 x 24 pool.
8. Local Regulations and Permits
Before making my final decision, I checked local building codes and permit requirements. It’s important to ensure compliance to avoid any legal issues down the line.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 12 x 24 pool is a big decision, but with the right information and planning, it can be a fantastic addition to your home. I hope my guide helps you feel confident and excited about choosing the perfect pool for your needs!
Author Profile
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Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.
In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.
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