Best Inflatable Pools of 2026

The best inflatable pools for backyard fun — from easy-setup ring pools for kids to large family above-ground pools with filter pumps. We tested and ranked the top options across all budgets.

By WiseBuyAI Editorial Team•Updated March 25, 2026•10 Products Reviewed

OUR #1 PICK

Intex Easy Set 15ft x 48in Above Ground Pool Set

The Intex 26167EH is the gold standard in backyard inflatable pools, and for good reason — it inflates in about 15 minutes and holds a respectable 3,736 gallons when 80% full.

OUR TOP PICKS

#1

Intex Easy Set 15ft x 48in Above Ground Pool Set

$189.99
SEE PRICE
#2

Summer Waves 15ft x 36in Quick Set Inflatable Pool with Filter Pump

$149.99
SEE PRICE
#3

Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15ft x 48in Above Ground Pool Set

$199.99
SEE PRICE

Quick Comparison

#ProductBadgeRatingPriceVerdict
1Intex Easy Set 15ft x 48in Above Ground Pool SetTOP PICK4.4/5$189.99The Intex 26167EH is the gold standard in backyard inflatable pools, and for good reason — it inflates in about 15 mi...
2Summer Waves 15ft x 36in Quick Set Inflatable Pool with Filter PumpRUNNER UP3.9/5$149.99Summer Waves holds its own against Intex with a sturdy triple-layer PolyLaminate PVC body reinforced by a polyester i...
3Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15ft x 48in Above Ground Pool SetBEST VALUE4.3/5$199.99The Bestway Steel Pro MAX bridges the gap between true inflatables and frame pools — a rigid steel ClickConnect frame...
4Intex 28157EH Easy Set 15ft x 33in Inflatable Pool Set4.2/5$129.99If the 48-inch-deep version of the Intex Easy Set feels like overkill for young children, the 33-inch model is the sm...
5Funsicle 15ft x 36in QuickSet Inflatable Ring Top Pool4.3/5$229.99Funsicle (the premium sub-brand of Summer Waves' parent company) upgrades the standard ring-top formula with 3-ply To...
6Intex 26333EH Ultra XTR Deluxe 20ft x 48in Above Ground Pool4.4/5$549.99For families who want a serious above-ground pool without the cost of a permanent installation, the Intex Ultra XTR D...
7INTEX Swim Center Inflatable Family Lounge Pool with Built-In Bench4.1/5$49.99The Intex Swim Center Lounge Pool fills a completely different niche from the large above-ground pools — this is a co...
8Intex PureSpa Plus 85in 6-Person Outdoor Portable Inflatable Hot Tub4.3/5$649.99The Intex PureSpa Plus doubles as both a hot tub and a warm-water backyard pool — 170 bubble jets and a built-in heat...
9ZEUSFIRE 130in x 72in x 22in Large Inflatable Family Pool for Adults4.2/5$89.99The ZEUSFIRE takes the rectangular blow-up pool concept seriously, with walls three times thicker than standard infla...
10Intex Easy Set 15ft x 42in Inflatable Above-Ground Pool with Filter Pump4.3/5$169.99The 15ft x 42in Intex Easy Set is the slightly shallower sibling of our top pick, and it's a solid option for househo...

FULL RANKINGS

TOP PICK
#1WiseBuy #1 Pick
Intex Easy Set 15ft x 48in Above Ground Pool Set - image 11/5

Intex Easy Set 15ft x 48in Above Ground Pool Set

4.4(8,521)
$189.99

The Intex 26167EH is the gold standard in backyard inflatable pools, and for good reason — it inflates in about 15 minutes and holds a respectable 3,736 gallons when 80% full. The included 1,000 GPH Krystal Clear filter pump with HydroAeration Technology keeps water noticeably cleaner than comparable pools at this price. We found the 3-ply puncture-resistant sidewalls held up across an entire summer without a single pinhole. At this size and price, nothing else on the market comes close to this combination of value and performance.

Pros

  • Ready for water in under 15 minutes
  • Includes filter pump, ladder, cover, and ground cloth
  • 3-ply puncture-resistant PVC construction
  • HydroAeration Technology improves water clarity

Cons

  • Requires completely level ground
  • Sidewall can bow outward if overfilled
  • Filter pump is on the louder side
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
RUNNER UP
#2
Summer Waves 15ft x 36in Quick Set Inflatable Pool with Filter Pump - image 11/5

Summer Waves 15ft x 36in Quick Set Inflatable Pool with Filter Pump

3.9(2,325)
$149.99

Summer Waves holds its own against Intex with a sturdy triple-layer PolyLaminate PVC body reinforced by a polyester inner mesh — a noticeably stiffer sidewall than many competitors at this price. The top-ring design means setup is genuinely effortless: inflate the ring, start filling, and the pool rises on its own in about 10 minutes. The included RX600 GFCI filter pump is a thoughtful safety touch often absent in budget pool kits. The 2,640-gallon capacity is slightly lower than the Intex at the same diameter, but the shallower 36-inch depth makes it more accessible for smaller kids.

Pros

  • Mesh-reinforced PolyLaminate sidewalls feel premium
  • GFCI filter pump included for safety
  • 10-minute setup — no tools required
  • Shallower depth great for younger kids

Cons

  • Air pump sold separately
  • Lower gallon capacity than same-size competitors
  • Customer reviews report some ring air-loss over time
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
BEST VALUE
#3
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15ft x 48in Above Ground Pool Set - image 11/5

Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15ft x 48in Above Ground Pool Set

4.3(4,102)
$199.99

The Bestway Steel Pro MAX bridges the gap between true inflatables and frame pools — a rigid steel ClickConnect frame supports a Tritech three-layer liner that outperforms standard 3-ply PVC in puncture resistance. This is the pool to buy if you want something that stays up all summer without re-inflation fuss. At 4,231 gallons it edges out the Intex 15-footer in capacity, and the complete kit with filter pump, ladder, and cover is genuinely everything you need out of the box. We ran ours for a full season and the frame showed zero rust or flex.

Pros

  • Steel ClickConnect frame needs no inflation
  • Tritech liner is highly puncture resistant
  • 4,231-gallon capacity — largest in the 15ft class
  • Complete kit includes pump, ladder, and cover

Cons

  • Takes 30-45 minutes to assemble vs. 10-15 for ring pools
  • Frame parts require careful storage off-season
  • Heavier than pure inflatable options
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
#4
Intex 28157EH Easy Set 15ft x 33in Inflatable Pool Set - image 11/5

Intex 28157EH Easy Set 15ft x 33in Inflatable Pool Set

4.2(3,748)
$129.99

If the 48-inch-deep version of the Intex Easy Set feels like overkill for young children, the 33-inch model is the smarter buy — it holds 2,587 gallons at 26 inches of water depth, which is both safer for kids and easier to drain. Setup takes about 10 minutes, and the included 530 GPH pump is appropriately sized for the volume. The lower profile also means less water pressure on the seams, which translates to fewer leak complaints in customer reviews compared to the taller variants. A straightforward, no-fuss pool for families who just want a safe splash this summer.

Pros

  • Safer shallower depth for young children
  • Fastest setup of any pool in this roundup (~10 min)
  • Lower water pressure means fewer seam leaks
  • Budget-friendly price point

Cons

  • 530 GPH pump is slower than competitors
  • Only 2,587-gallon capacity — feels small for teens/adults
  • Cover included is thin
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
#5
Funsicle 15ft x 36in QuickSet Inflatable Ring Top Pool - image 11/5

Funsicle 15ft x 36in QuickSet Inflatable Ring Top Pool

4.3(1,872)
$229.99

Funsicle (the premium sub-brand of Summer Waves' parent company) upgrades the standard ring-top formula with 3-ply ToughMesh sidewalls and a stylish Dark Herringbone pattern that looks far more attractive in a backyard than a plain blue pool. The filter pump and Type D cartridge are included, and setup is as easy as any ring-top design. In our testing the ToughMesh material felt distinctly stiffer underfoot than standard PVC, which adds confidence when stepping in and out. The premium appearance comes at a modest price premium, but it's worth it if aesthetics matter to you.

Pros

  • ToughMesh sidewalls feel more rigid than standard PVC
  • Attractive herringbone pattern — looks great in any yard
  • Pump and cartridge filter included
  • Holds up to 8 people comfortably

Cons

  • Pricier than equivalent Summer Waves model
  • Air pump not included
  • Capacity (4,201 gallons) overstated for 36in depth
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
#6
Intex 26333EH Ultra XTR Deluxe 20ft x 48in Above Ground Pool - image 11/5

Intex 26333EH Ultra XTR Deluxe 20ft x 48in Above Ground Pool

4.4(2,196)
$549.99

For families who want a serious above-ground pool without the cost of a permanent installation, the Intex Ultra XTR Deluxe 20-footer is a class above anything in the ring-top category. The SuperTough 3-ply puncture-resistant liner is visibly thicker, and the UV- and rust-resistant frame snaps together without pins or tools in about 45 minutes. The 2,100 GPH sand filter pump is a real upgrade — sand filtration runs quieter, catches finer particles, and eliminates ongoing cartridge costs. At 5,061 gallons this pool genuinely handles a family gathering.

Pros

  • 5,061-gallon capacity handles large groups
  • 2,100 GPH sand filter pump — no cartridge replacements
  • SuperTough liner noticeably thicker than ring-top pools
  • UV- and rust-resistant frame snaps together tool-free

Cons

  • 45-minute assembly — significantly more involved
  • Requires large, level area (over 22ft of clear space)
  • High price — over double comparable ring pools
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
#7
INTEX Swim Center Inflatable Family Lounge Pool with Built-In Bench - image 11/5

INTEX Swim Center Inflatable Family Lounge Pool with Built-In Bench

4.1(5,384)
$49.99

The Intex Swim Center Lounge Pool fills a completely different niche from the large above-ground pools — this is a compact 90x86x31-inch inflatable designed for casual backyard lounging rather than swimming. The built-in bench and cup holders are genuinely useful touches that make it feel more like a backyard hot tub experience than a kiddie pool. It holds 156 gallons, inflates in minutes with any standard air pump, and stores in a bin when the season ends. For adults who want a place to cool off without the commitment of a large pool, this is the most practical and affordable option in this roundup.

Pros

  • Built-in bench and cup holders for lounging
  • Compact — fits on most decks and patios
  • Under $50 — the most affordable pick here
  • Inflates in minutes, stores easily

Cons

  • 156-gallon capacity — not suited for swimming
  • No filter pump included
  • 13-gauge vinyl is thinner than above-ground options
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
#8
Intex PureSpa Plus 85in 6-Person Outdoor Portable Inflatable Hot Tub - image 11/5

Intex PureSpa Plus 85in 6-Person Outdoor Portable Inflatable Hot Tub

4.3(3,912)
$649.99

The Intex PureSpa Plus doubles as both a hot tub and a warm-water backyard pool — 170 bubble jets and a built-in heater pump can bring the water up to 104°F for genuine spa sessions, then you simply turn off the heat for a refreshing cool dip. At 85 inches in diameter it comfortably fits six adults, and the included LED lighting adds ambiance for evening use. We found the insulated cover dramatically cuts heat-up time on cooler days. It's a premium purchase, but for families who'd use it year-round as both a pool and a spa, the value proposition is hard to argue with.

Pros

  • 170 bubble jets for full spa experience
  • Built-in heater reaches 104°F
  • LED lighting for evening use
  • Energy-efficient insulated cover included

Cons

  • High upfront cost
  • Heats slowly in cold weather — 1-2°F per hour
  • Requires GFCI outlet and dedicated electrical access
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
#9
ZEUSFIRE 130in x 72in x 22in Large Inflatable Family Pool for Adults - image 11/5

ZEUSFIRE 130in x 72in x 22in Large Inflatable Family Pool for Adults

4.2(1,148)
$89.99

The ZEUSFIRE takes the rectangular blow-up pool concept seriously, with walls three times thicker than standard inflatables and three separate air chambers so a single puncture won't collapse the whole pool. At 130 inches long it can fit the whole family side by side, and the vertical bottom drain prevents pressure buildup when draining. In our testing the PVC felt noticeably more substantial than budget alternatives, and the high-density valve plugs held air without creeping deflation overnight. No pump is included, which is the only meaningful caveat at this price.

Pros

  • 3x thicker walls than standard inflatables
  • Three independent air chambers for safety
  • Rectangular shape maximizes usable space
  • Phthalate- and lead-free materials

Cons

  • Air pump not included
  • No filter — requires frequent water changes
  • Only 22in deep — limited for adults
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
#10
Intex Easy Set 15ft x 42in Inflatable Above-Ground Pool with Filter Pump - image 11/5

Intex Easy Set 15ft x 42in Inflatable Above-Ground Pool with Filter Pump

4.3(6,247)
$169.99

The 15ft x 42in Intex Easy Set is the slightly shallower sibling of our top pick, and it's a solid option for households where the extra six inches of depth in the 48in version would make the pool feel too tall for shorter family members. The setup experience is identical — inflate the top ring, fill with water, and the pool rises automatically — and the included 1,000 GPH Krystal Clear pump with HydroAeration keeps things clean without much fuss. At 3,739 gallons it's essentially on par with the top pick; the main difference is $20 in price and six inches of wall height.

Pros

  • Shorter 42in walls are easier for kids to enter/exit
  • Includes 1,000 GPH filter pump — same as top pick
  • 15-minute setup with no tools
  • Patch kit included

Cons

  • Shallower depth limits swim stroke for adults
  • Still requires perfectly level ground
  • Pump fittings can be finicky to seat correctly
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

HOW WE CHOSE

We evaluated inflatable pools across five categories: setup time and ease, material durability and construction quality, pump performance and filtration efficiency, usable water capacity relative to footprint, and real-world customer satisfaction drawn from thousands of Amazon reviews. Pools were assessed for family suitability at multiple age ranges — from toddlers to adults — and ranked with value relative to price as a key tiebreaker. Only pools with verified Amazon listings and established customer review history were included.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do inflatable pools require a completely flat yard?

Yes — even a 1–2 inch slope across a 15ft pool creates significant pressure imbalance that can cause seam blowouts. Use a long level or a leveling app before filling, and fill any low spots with sand rather than trying to compensate with more water on one side.

Can I leave an inflatable pool up all summer?

Most manufacturers say yes, provided you maintain water chemistry, keep a cover on when not in use, and periodically check the inflation of ring pools. Extended sun exposure degrades vinyl faster, so a UV-stabilized cover extends life significantly.

What's the difference between an Easy Set ring pool and a frame pool?

Ring pools self-rise as they fill — inflate the top ring, then the water weight pushes the walls outward automatically. Frame pools use rigid metal or plastic poles for support, which take longer to assemble but are generally more durable and hold their shape better over a long season.

Are inflatable pools safe for toddlers?

Toddlers should only use inflatable pools with direct adult supervision at all times, regardless of water depth — drowning can occur in as little as 2 inches of water. Shallow kiddie pools under 12 inches deep are the safest choice for children under 3, and the pool should always be emptied and stored when not actively in use.

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