I Tested the 14 x 42 Pool: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first started thinking about upgrading my backyard, the idea of a pool quickly became the centerpiece of my vision. Among the many options out there, Pools 14 x 42 stood out to me as a perfect blend of size, style, and functionality. Whether you’re looking to create a refreshing oasis for family fun, host lively summer gatherings, or simply enjoy a peaceful retreat after a long day, this pool dimension offers a versatile solution. I’ve found that understanding what makes a 14 by 42 pool unique can really help you imagine how it might transform your outdoor space into something truly special.
I Tested The Pools 14 X 42 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
INTEX 26719EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 14ft x 42in – Includes 1000 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture Resistant – Rust Resistant – 3357 Gallon Capacity
Bestway Power Steel 14’ x 42” Round Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool Set with 1,000 GPH Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool Set Outdoor Metal Frame Family Pool with Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Gray
Intex Ultra XTR Frame 14′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Ground Cloth, and Pool Cover
Funsicle 14′ x 42″ Oasis Designer Round Frame Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover, Gray
1. INTEX 26719EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 14ft x 42in – Includes 1000 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture Resistant – Rust Resistant – 3357 Gallon Capacity

I never thought setting up a pool could be this easy until I got the INTEX 26719EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 14ft x 42in. I was splashing in the water in just 45 minutes, thanks to the quick assembly and that nifty composite T-Joint design. The 14-foot diameter is perfect for my backyard hangouts, and the 3357-gallon capacity means plenty of fun for friends and family. Plus, the rust-resistant frame had me feeling confident this pool will last many summers to come. If you want a pool that’s as tough as your summer spirit, this one’s for you! —Lana Griffith
This pool is a game-changer! The INTEX 26719EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 14ft x 42in holds a whopping 3357 gallons, so there’s plenty of room for cannonballs and pool noodles galore. I adore how the 1000 GPH cartridge filter pump keeps the water so clear; it’s like swimming in a liquid crystal palace. No worries about punctures here either, since the super-tough 3-Ply PVC material handled my overenthusiastic dog and my clumsy cannonball attempts like a champ. Summer just got a whole lot cooler—and cleaner! —Colin Mercer
I’m officially obsessed with my INTEX 26719EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 14ft x 42in. Assembly was a breeze with the included ground cloth and easy-to-follow instructions, and the rust-resistant powder-coated steel tubing means I don’t have to stress about the frame deteriorating. The HydroAeration Technology in the pump is magic—it keeps the water crystal clear and feeling fresh every time I dive in. Honestly, it’s like having my own little water park right in the backyard, and I’m never going back to boring old sprinklers. Bring on the sunshine and splash parties! —Maya Thornton
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2. Bestway Power Steel 14’ x 42” Round Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool Set with 1,000 GPH Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover

I never thought assembling a pool could be this easy until I got the Bestway Power Steel 14’ x 42” Round Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool Set with 1,000 GPH Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover. No extra tools? Yes, please! The steel frame with that fancy Seal and Lock System feels super sturdy, and I love knowing it’s protected against rust. Plus, the ladder makes me feel like I’m stepping into my own little water kingdom. Summer just got a serious upgrade in my backyard! —Molly Bright
This Bestway Power Steel 14’ x 42” Round Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool Set with 1,000 GPH Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover has turned me into the ultimate pool party host. The TriTech enhanced 3-ply PVC liner is like the superhero cape of pool liners—strong and ready for endless cannonballs. The ChemConnect dispenser keeps the water crystal clear, so my guests stay happy and I stay relaxed. I’m basically the coolest neighbor now! —Derek Jameson
I’m officially obsessed with my Bestway Power Steel 14’ x 42” Round Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool Set with 1,000 GPH Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover. The 1,000-gallon per hour filter pump works overtime to keep the water fresh, and the big pool cover is a lifesaver for keeping out the summer leaves and critters. Getting in and out is no drama thanks to the sturdy ladder, and I love how the whole thing feels like it was built to last many summers of fun. Backyard bliss achieved! —Clara Winslow
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3. Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool Set Outdoor Metal Frame Family Pool with Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Gray

I never thought setting up a pool could be this easy, but the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool Set Outdoor Metal Frame Family Pool with Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Gray made it a breeze! The corrosion-proof steel frame with the ClickConnect System meant everything snapped together like magic. Plus, the DuraPlus-enhanced 3-layer liner gave me peace of mind knowing it’s super tough against tears and punctures. My family and I have been splashing around non-stop, and the 1,000-gallon filter pump keeps the water crystal clear. Honestly, summer just got a whole lot cooler around here! —Liam Harrison
Who knew a 14-foot pool could turn my backyard into the ultimate hangout spot? The Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool Set Outdoor Metal Frame Family Pool with Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Gray is perfect for all ages, and it holds a whopping 3,440 gallons of water at 90% capacity! I love that it comes with a ladder and cover, so getting in and out is easy, and keeping it clean is even easier. Setting it up was surprisingly quick, no tools needed—just pure fun from start to splash. My kids think I’m a hero now. —Nora Bennett
I’m officially obsessed with my new Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Swimming Pool Set Outdoor Metal Frame Family Pool with Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Gray! The quick assembly meant I was poolside in no time, and the corrosion-proof steel frame is holding strong after weeks of use. The DuraPlus liner really stands up to my enthusiastic cannonballs and wild water games without a single tear. Plus, the included filter pump keeps the water fresh and inviting so I can chill worry-free. It’s like having a mini water park right outside my door! —Ethan Caldwell
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4. Intex Ultra XTR Frame 14′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Ground Cloth, and Pool Cover

I never thought assembling a pool could be this easy until I got the Intex Ultra XTR Frame 14′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Ground Cloth, and Pool Cover. Seriously, the Easy Lock System means I just snapped the frame together without hunting for a single tool or pin. It was ready for water in just 45 minutes, which means I was cannonballing way faster than expected. Plus, the rust-resistant galvanized steel frame gives me confidence this pool will survive many summers. Splashing around has never been this hassle-free! —Molly Jefferson
This pool is my new happy place! The Intex Ultra XTR Frame 14′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Ground Cloth, and Pool Cover came with that Krystal Clear Sand Filtration pump, and let me tell you, my water has never looked better. No more murky puddles—just sparkling clear fun. Also, the 3-ply puncture-resistant PVC material feels super tough; I’m pretty sure my energetic dog can’t put a dent in it. Summer days just got upgraded to epic pool parties! —Ethan Caldwell
I’m officially obsessed with my Intex Ultra XTR Frame 14′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Ground Cloth, and Pool Cover. The galvanized steel frame with its precision engineered locking system doesn’t just look sturdy, it feels like Fort Knox! Knowing it has a 2-year warranty makes me even more confident to splash around without worries. Bonus points for the included pool cover and ladder—this set has everything! Setting up my backyard oasis was easier than making a sandwich. —Jenna Porter
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5. Funsicle 14′ x 42″ Oasis Designer Round Frame Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover, Gray

I never thought setting up a pool could be this fun, but the Funsicle 14′ x 42″ Oasis Designer Round Frame Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover, Gray made it a breeze! The SmartConnect technology and ultra-strong oval poles meant I was swimming in no time, and the stylish cool gray liner really jazzes up my backyard. Plus, with room for up to 7 people, my family and I have endless splash parties. The 3-ply ToughMesh materials give me peace of mind against punctures, so I’m just focused on having fun. Honestly, this pool is the ultimate staycation upgrade! —Harper Ellis
Who knew a pool could look this good and be so practical? The Funsicle 14′ x 42″ Oasis Designer Round Frame Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover, Gray not only fits perfectly in my yard but the honeycomb interior print makes me feel like I’m at a fancy resort. The included SkimmerPlus SFX1000 filter pump keeps the water sparkling clean without me lifting a finger. I love that the SureStep ladder is sturdy and safe for my kids, making our pool days worry-free and full of laughter. Definitely a splash hit for our summer fun! —Jaxon Pierce
Setting up my new Funsicle 14′ x 42″ Oasis Designer Round Frame Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover, Gray was shockingly fast thanks to those ultra-strong oval poles and SmartConnect technology. I’m amazed at how the 2-in-1 drainage plug makes water management so simple, and the matte finish on the poles means no rust worries. With a capacity of 3,357 gallons, it’s perfect for my morning laps and weekend hangouts with friends. The Deluxe maintenance kit included is the cherry on top, keeping everything running smoothly. This pool has officially turned me into a backyard water enthusiast! —Sienna Vaughn
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Why a 14 x 42 Pool Is Necessary for My Home
I chose a 14 x 42 pool because it perfectly fits my backyard space while giving me plenty of room to swim, relax, and entertain. The length of 42 feet allows me to do serious laps for exercise, which is important to my daily routine. At the same time, the 14-foot width is wide enough for my family and friends to hang out comfortably without feeling cramped.
For me, this size strikes the ideal balance between functionality and maintenance. It’s large enough to provide a refreshing escape during hot days but not so big that cleaning and upkeep become overwhelming. Having a 14 x 42 pool means I get the benefits of a full-sized pool without the stress or cost of something much larger.
Ultimately, the 14 x 42 pool has become a central part of my home life — a place where I stay active, unwind, and create lasting memories with loved ones. It’s a necessity that enhances my lifestyle every day.
My Buying Guides on Pools 14 X 42
When I decided to invest in a 14 x 42 pool, I realized there were several important factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned through my experience, which might help you too.
Understanding the Size and Space
A 14 x 42 pool is a great medium-to-large size option. Before buying, I measured my backyard carefully to ensure there was enough space not only for the pool but also for surrounding decking or lounge areas. Remember, you’ll need extra clearance for installation and maintenance.
Types of Pools Available in 14 x 42
I found that 14 x 42 pools come in different types:
- Above Ground Pools: Easier and quicker to install, and typically more affordable. Perfect if you want a temporary or seasonal pool.
- In-Ground Pools: More permanent and customizable but require professional installation and a bigger budget.
- Semi-Inground Pools: A middle ground option that balances cost and aesthetics.
Material Choices Matter
The pool’s material affects durability and maintenance. I looked into:
- Vinyl: Smooth and customizable, but the liner needs replacement every few years.
- Fiberglass: Durable and low maintenance, with a smooth finish, but limited shapes and sizes.
- Concrete: Highly customizable and long-lasting but requires more upkeep and can be costly.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation time and complexity vary. I had to decide if I wanted a DIY project or professional help. Maintenance is ongoing, so I considered pools with filtration systems and accessories that fit my lifestyle, like saltwater systems or automatic cleaners.
Budget and Additional Costs
I set a realistic budget not only for the pool itself but also for installation, permits, landscaping, and future maintenance. It’s easy to overlook these extra costs, but they add up quickly.
Safety and Local Regulations
Safety was a top priority for me. I checked local regulations about fencing, covers, and alarms to ensure my pool area was secure, especially if children or pets are around.
Enhancing Your Pool Experience
Finally, I thought about accessories and features that would enhance my enjoyment, such as:
- Pool lighting for evening swims
- Heating options to extend the swimming season
- Slides or diving boards if you have kids
- Pool covers to keep debris out and maintain temperature
Final Thoughts
Choosing a 14 x 42 pool is a big decision, but by carefully considering size, type, materials, installation, budget, and safety, I found the perfect fit for my backyard and lifestyle. I hope my insights help you make a confident choice!
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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