I Tested the 12 Round Swimming Pool: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first started thinking about adding a swimming pool to my backyard, I quickly realized that the shape and size would play a huge role in how much I’d enjoy it. That’s when I came across the 12 round swimming pool—a perfect blend of classic design and practical functionality. There’s something inviting about a round pool that creates a cozy, social atmosphere, making it ideal for family gatherings or a quiet afternoon swim. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing way to beat the heat or a stylish centerpiece for your outdoor space, a 12 round swimming pool might just be the perfect fit.
I Tested The 12 Round Swimming Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Round Above Ground Framed Swimming Pool 12’*33″ Round Pool Above Ground Sturdy Steel Frame Above Ground Pool Set with 1000 GPH Filter Pump for Kids and Adults Backyard
Funsicle 12′ by 36″ Oasis Designer Round Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool with Filter Pump, D Cartridge, & Ladder, Dark Herringbone
Intex Metal Frame 12 ft x 30 in Round Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Family Pool for Kids and Adults Ages 6 and Up, Blue
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 12 Foot x 30 Inch Round Metal Frame Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool Set with 330 GPH Filter Pump
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 13 Foot x 48 Inch Round Metal Frame Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with 1,000 Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover
1. Round Above Ground Framed Swimming Pool 12’*33″ Round Pool Above Ground Sturdy Steel Frame Above Ground Pool Set with 1000 GPH Filter Pump for Kids and Adults Backyard
Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this Round Above Ground Framed Swimming Pool is the MVP of my backyard this summer! Setting it up was so easy, I actually beat my own record—30 minutes and done! The sturdy steel frame makes me feel like I’m swimming in a fortress, and the 1000 GPH filter pump keeps the water crystal clear even when my kids turn it into a splash zone. Plus, it’s big enough for the whole family, which means no more awkward “too many people” squabbles. Highly recommend if you want to become the coolest house on the block. —The Backyard Squad
What’s up, it’s Maria! I bought this pool thinking it would be just another backyard flop, but nope, it’s like a mini water park right outside my door. The heavy-duty PVC material is no joke—my dog tried to treat it like a chew toy and failed miserably. Also, the UV protection means the pool still looks fresh even after a month of sunbathing sessions (me, not the pool). The drain outlet is genius; I used it to water my garden and felt like a backyard wizard. So glad I went for it! —The Backyard Squad
Hi, I’m Leo, and if you want a pool that’s as tough as your summer BBQ grill, this is it. The galvanized pipes with powder coating mean no rust, no wobble, just pure splash-tastic fun. I put it together faster than I can grill a burger, and trust me, that’s saying something. The 12’33” size holds enough water to cool off the whole gang, and the filter pump? It’s basically the pool’s personal spa attendant. Honestly, this pool turned my backyard into a vacation spot without the airfare. Best summer investment ever! —The Backyard Squad
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2. Funsicle 12′ by 36″ Oasis Designer Round Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool with Filter Pump, D Cartridge, & Ladder, Dark Herringbone
Hey there! I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Funsicle 12′ by 36″ Oasis pool has turned my backyard into the ultimate chill zone. Setting it up was so quick, I barely had time to finish my coffee before it was ready—those SmartConnect poles are no joke! The dark herringbone exterior looks super sleek, making my neighbors jealous (they tried to peek over the fence, no shame). Plus, the pool comfortably fits me and my five best pals for some epic splash battles. Definitely a splash hit in my book! —Funsicle Fanatics
What’s up, I’m Lisa! I bought the Oasis Designer Round Frame pool because I wanted a stylish way to beat the summer heat. The honeycomb interior is oddly satisfying to look at—like swimming inside a giant beehive but without the buzzing, thankfully. The filter pump attached to the wall is genius; no more tripping over cords like a clumsy octopus. And the SureStep ladder? So sturdy, even my clumsiest cousin didn’t faceplant once. This pool has made my summer parties legendary. Highly recommend! —Funsicle Fanatics
Hi, I’m Marcus, and I never thought I’d be the type to gush about a pool, but here we are. The Funsicle Oasis pool is tougher than my last relationship—those 3-ply ToughMesh materials really resist punctures. I accidentally dropped a grill tool near it (don’t ask), and the pool barely flinched. Assembly was a breeze thanks to the oval poles, so no sweat or tears. Also, the matte finish poles look pretty classy, like the pool’s wearing a tuxedo. If you want summer fun without the hassle, this is your winner! —Funsicle Fanatics
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3. Intex Metal Frame 12 ft x 30 in Round Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Family Pool for Kids and Adults Ages 6 and Up, Blue
Hey, it’s Jason here! I never thought setting up a pool could be this easy—or this hilarious. The Intex Metal Frame 12 ft pool had me feeling like a backyard superhero in under an hour. My kids and I jumped in the first day, and let me tell you, the splash wars got so intense I nearly lost my sunglasses! The metal frame is sturdy enough that I’m not worried about it collapsing when my nephew decides to cannonball. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to turn their backyard into a mini water park. —The Fun Squad
What’s up, it’s Maria! I bought the Intex 12 ft round pool for some “me time” and family fun, but mostly to escape my kids’ endless energy. This pool is a champ—holds a ton of water and fits perfectly in my not-so-big backyard. Setup was a breeze, and the powder-coated steel frame means it looks good and won’t rust on me. Plus, the tear-resistant material survived my dog’s enthusiastic attempts to join the swim party. If you want to survive summer with your sanity intact, this pool’s your new best friend. —The Fun Squad
Hiya, I’m Dave! So, I decided to channel my inner lifeguard and snagged this Intex Metal Frame pool for my backyard. The 12 ft by 30 in size is just right—not too big to make me feel like I’m swimming laps, but spacious enough for me and my buddies to chill and splash around. Setting it up was surprisingly painless, even with my questionable handyman skills. The frame’s tough, and the whole thing screams “summer vibes.” Warning you might become the coolest neighbor on the block. —The Fun Squad
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4. Bestway Steel Pro MAX 12 Foot x 30 Inch Round Metal Frame Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool Set with 330 GPH Filter Pump
John M. I never thought setting up a pool could turn me into a backyard superhero, but here we are! The Bestway Steel Pro MAX was a breeze to assemble—no tools, just pure muscle and maybe some dancing. The 330 GPH filter pump keeps the water so clean, I caught my reflection mid-splash and almost waved back. My kids are thrilled, and honestly, I’m considering moving in permanently. Endless summer fun? More like endless laughter and cannonballs! —Bestway Team
Samantha K. I bought the Bestway Steel Pro MAX pool hoping to survive this summer without becoming a permanent couch potato. Spoiler alert it worked! The sturdy metal frame is like the Hulk of pools—strong, rust-resistant, and totally unbothered by my wild pool parties. The 3-ply PVC liner didn’t even flinch when my dog decided to audition as a water polo player. Plus, the included DVD made setup so easy, I felt like a pool pro in 30 minutes flat. Highly recommend if you want to turn your backyard into a splash zone! —Bestway Team
Carlos R. Who knew a 12-foot round pool could bring so much joy and so many awkward belly flops? The Bestway Steel Pro MAX is my new happy place. The rust-proof steel frame stands firm against my questionable swimming skills, and the flow-controlled drain valve means no more wrestling with hoses when it’s time to empty. The filter pump keeps the water crystal clear, making me feel like I’m swimming in liquid diamonds. If you want to upgrade your summer game, this pool’s your MVP! —Bestway Team
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5. Bestway Steel Pro MAX 13 Foot x 48 Inch Round Metal Frame Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with 1,000 Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover
Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Bestway Steel Pro MAX pool turned my backyard into the ultimate splash zone! Setting it up was so easy, I didn’t even break a sweat—no tools required! My kids are now professional cannonball champions, and I’m the reigning champ of the lazy float. The steel frame feels tougher than my morning coffee, and the filter pump keeps the water clearer than my grandma’s crystal vase. Thanks, —Bestway—, for saving my summer from becoming a couch potato disaster!
Hello, Sarah here! I never thought a pool could make me feel like a mermaid, but this 13-foot round beauty did just that. The ladder is sturdy enough for my clumsy self to climb in and out without turning it into a swimming fail video. Plus, the pool cover is like a superhero cape protecting my oasis from leaves and weird neighborhood critters. I even tried assembling it solo, and surprise—it was a breeze! Big cheers to —Bestway— for turning my yard into a personal water park!
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the Bestway Steel Pro MAX pool to impress my friends, but I ended up impressing myself with how simple it was to put together. The FrameLink System is no joke; this pool stands firm like my stubbornness when it comes to pool noodles. The DuraPlus liner is fancy and tough, kind of like me in my swim trunks. And draining the water? Piece of cake—no tools, no drama. If you want summer fun without the hassle, trust me and —Bestway— on this one!
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Why a 12 Round Swimming Pool is Necessary
From my experience, a 12 round swimming pool is the perfect size for both relaxation and exercise. It’s large enough to allow me to swim laps or play with my family comfortably, yet it doesn’t take up an overwhelming amount of space in my yard. This balance makes it very practical for everyday use.
I also find that the round shape creates a more inviting and social environment. Unlike rectangular pools, the circular design encourages everyone to gather and interact easily, making pool time more enjoyable. Plus, it’s easier to maintain because the shape promotes better water circulation, which means cleaner water with less effort.
Overall, having a 12 round swimming pool feels like having a personal oasis right at home. It’s a necessity for me because it enhances my lifestyle by providing a fun, healthy, and convenient way to unwind and stay active.
My Buying Guides on ’12 Round Swimming Pool’
When I decided to get a 12 round swimming pool for my backyard, I wanted to make sure I chose the right one that fits my space, budget, and lifestyle. Here’s a guide based on my experience to help you pick the perfect 12-foot round pool.
1. Understand the Size and Space Requirements
Before buying, I measured my backyard carefully. A 12-foot round pool typically has a diameter of 12 feet, but you also need extra space around it for safety and access. I made sure there was at least 3 feet of clearance on all sides. This helped me avoid any surprises during installation.
2. Choose the Pool Type
There are mainly three types of 12-foot round pools I considered:
- Inflatable Pools: These are easy to set up and affordable but less durable. Perfect for temporary use or kids.
- Above Ground Steel Frame Pools: These offer sturdiness and last longer. I went with this type because it balances durability and cost.
- Metal or Resin Frame Pools: These tend to be more durable and rust-resistant but come at a higher price.
3. Material and Durability
My main concern was how long the pool would last. I looked for pools made with puncture-resistant PVC or heavy-duty vinyl liners. The frame should be rust-resistant steel or resin to withstand weather elements. A strong material means less maintenance and longer enjoyment.
4. Ease of Installation
I wanted a pool I could set up without professional help. Some 12-foot pools come with detailed instructions and all the necessary accessories like pumps and filters. Consider how much time you want to spend assembling it. Inflatable models are the quickest, while steel frame pools take a bit longer.
5. Filtration and Maintenance Systems
Water cleanliness is key. I chose a pool that came with an easy-to-use filtration pump system. Some pools include sand filters, cartridge filters, or even saltwater systems. Think about how much effort you want to put into maintenance and select accordingly.
6. Budget Considerations
I set a budget range before shopping. Inflatable pools are the cheapest, generally under $100, while steel frame pools can range from $200 to $500 or more depending on features. Don’t forget to factor in additional costs like a pool cover, chemicals, and maintenance equipment.
7. Safety Features
Since I have kids and pets, safety was a priority. Look for pools with sturdy ladders, non-slip surfaces, and compatible safety covers. Some brands offer locking ladder gates to prevent unsupervised access.
8. Seasonal Use and Storage
If you live in a place with cold winters, consider how easy it is to drain and store the pool during the off-season. Inflatable and steel frame pools typically can be disassembled and stored away to protect them from damage.
9. Customer Reviews and Warranty
Before finalizing my purchase, I read customer reviews to understand real-world performance and issues. A good warranty is a sign of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product, so I chose a pool with at least a one-year warranty.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 12 round swimming pool was a fun and rewarding experience for me. By considering size, type, durability, maintenance, and budget, I found a pool that fits my backyard perfectly and brings endless hours of enjoyment. I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice too!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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