11 Best Bestway Framed Swimming Pools for Above Ground Pools, Compared
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Finding the best bestway framed swimming pools for above ground pools requires comparing published specs. We evaluated 11 models to help you choose based on size, depth, and filtration. The top pick is the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14' x 33" Round Pool, which leads with a 168-inch width and 33.1-inch height for wide backyard swimming. All selections rely strictly on manufacturer data. This guide helps you decide which frame pool fits your yard dimensions and maintenance needs.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You want the best overall pool for wide backyards Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14' x 33" Round Pool The 14-foot diameter provides a broad swimming area with a 33-inch depth.
- You need a budget option for compact yards Bestway Steel Pro MAX 12' x 30" Pool Set This 12-foot model offers tool-free steel assembly and a 30-inch height.
- You want year-round swimming with a sand filter Bestway APX 365 20' x 52" Pool Set It includes a sand filter pump and winter-ready construction for a 20-foot pool.
- You need a semi-permanent pool for large yards Bestway APX 365 31'4" x 16' Framed Pool The 31-foot 4-inch length supports a 13,798-gallon capacity with a galvanized frame.
Our 11 picks
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14' x 33" Round Pool
Best for: wide backyard swimming with shallower water depth
- Use
- Poolside, Above Ground Pools (what this guide is about)
- Dimensions
- 14 ft.
- Water Capacity
- 2,700 gal.
- Pool Height
- 33 in.
- Shape
- Round
- Filter Pump Type
- Cartridge filter pump
View on Amazon: Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14' x 33" Round Pool Affiliate link
This round above ground pool gives you a 14-foot diameter with a 33-inch wall height and a 2,700-gallon water capacity. It features a corrosion-resistant steel frame with ClickConnect joints and a puncture-resistant, three-layer Tritech liner. The package includes a 530-gallon cartridge filter pump with a Type III filter. If you want a wide, lower-profile pool that assembles without tools in about 40 minutes, this setup fits your backyard.
Pros
- Includes a 530 gal. cartridge filter pump and Type III filter
- Corrosion-resistant steel frame uses tool-free ClickConnect joints
- Three-layer Tritech reinforced puncture-resistant liner
- Setup takes 40 minutes with two to three people
Cons
- 33-inch wall height provides a shallower depth than taller options
- Does not include an entry ladder, pool cover, or ground cloth
Good fit if
- You want a 14-foot pool with a shallow 33-inch profile
- You prefer a tool-free frame assembly that takes under an hour
- You need an included 530 gal. cartridge filter pump
Skip if
- You want deeper water with 48-inch or 52-inch wall heights
- You need a bundle that includes an entry ladder and cover
Verdict: Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14' x 33" Round Pool delivers a broad 14-foot swimming footprint with a shallower 33-inch depth and included filter pump. It provides straightforward, tool-free setup for yards that do not require tall side walls.
Bestway APX 365 20' x 52" Pool Set
Best for: year-round swimming with sand filtration
- Use
- Poolside, Above Ground Pools (what this guide is about)
- Dimensions
- 20 ft
- Water Capacity
- 8,781 gallons
- Pool Height
- 52 in
- Filter Pump Type
- Sand filter pump
- Liner Material
- 3-layer Tritech
View on Amazon: Bestway APX 365 20' x 52" Pool Set Affiliate link
This round above-ground pool gives you a 20-foot diameter and a 52-inch depth with an 8,781-gallon water capacity. It features a galvanized steel frame with ClickConnect joints and a 3-layer Tritech liner with Polar-Shield cold protection for year-round outdoor placement. It suits you if you need a permanent backyard swimming setup that includes a 2,200-gallon sand filter pump, ladder, and cover.
Pros
- Includes a 2,200-gallon sand filter pump with reusable filtration balls
- Galvanized steel frame and Polar-Shield liner designed for year-round use
- Tool-free assembly with ClickConnect joint system
- Comes with a protective pool cover and ladder
Cons
- Requires a flat 20-foot by 20-foot yard footprint
- Heavy boxed weight of 292 pounds
Good fit if
- You want to leave your pool assembled outdoors through winter.
- You need a complete set with a sand filter, ladder, and cover included.
Skip if
- You have a small yard that cannot accommodate a 240-inch circle.
- You prefer a lightweight seasonal pool that packs away easily.
Verdict: Bestway APX 365 20' x 52" Pool Set delivers winter-ready construction and a sand filter system for full-size backyard swimming. It provides generous water volume without requiring seasonal teardown.
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 12' x 30" Pool Set
Best for: compact yards wanting tool-free steel frame assembly
- Use
- Poolside, Above Ground Pools (what this guide is about)
- Dimensions
- 12 ft
- Water Capacity
- 1,710 gal.
- Pool Height
- 30 inches
- Shape
- Round
- Filter Pump Type
- Cartridge pump
View on Amazon: Bestway Steel Pro MAX 12' x 30" Pool Set Affiliate link
This round above-ground pool measures 12 feet across and 30 inches deep, giving you a 1,710-gallon capacity at 90 percent full. It uses a corrosion-resistant steel frame with the FrameLink System and a puncture-resistant DuraPlus 3-ply liner reinforced by a PVC support band. The package includes a cartridge filter pump compatible with Type I cartridges. It suits you if you want a manageable backyard setup that requires no tools to assemble.
Pros
- FrameLink System with corrosion-resistant steel frame
- Puncture-resistant DuraPlus 3-ply liner with PVC support band
- Tool-free assembly with integrated flow-controlled drain valve
- Includes cartridge filter pump compatible with Type I cartridges
Cons
- 30-inch height provides less water depth than taller frame models
- Uses a standard cartridge filter rather than a sand filtration system
Good fit if
- You want a 12-foot round pool with tool-free frame assembly.
- You need an included cartridge pump compatible with Type I filters.
- You prefer a 30-inch wall height for easier entry and lower water volume.
Skip if
- You want a deep pool with 48-inch or 52-inch sidewalls.
- You prefer a system equipped with a sand filter pump.
- You need more than 1,710 gallons of swimming capacity.
Verdict: Bestway Steel Pro MAX 12' x 30" Round Pool provides a practical 1,710-gallon capacity with tool-free steel assembly and an included cartridge filter pump. It serves as an accessible entry point if you do not require deeper 48-inch or 52-inch pool walls.
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14ft x 48in Round Pool Set
Best for: mid-sized yards needing a complete 48-inch pool
- Use
- Outdoor, Poolside, Above Ground Pools (what this guide is about)
- Dimensions
- 14 ft
- Water Capacity
- 4,024 gallons
- Pool Height
- 48 in
- Shape
- Round
- Filter Pump Type
- Cartridge filter pump
View on Amazon: Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14ft x 48in Round Pool Set Affiliate link
This Bestway Steel Pro MAX is a 14-foot round above-ground pool with a 48-inch wall height and a 4,024-gallon capacity. It features a corrosion-resistant steel frame with ClickConnect joints and a puncture-resistant 3-layer Tritech liner. The bundle includes a 1,000-gallon cartridge filter pump, a ladder, and a fitted cover. It suits you if you need a mid-sized circular pool deep enough for swimming without occupying excessive yard space.
Pros
- Includes 1,000-gallon cartridge filter pump, ladder, and cover
- ClickConnect frame joints assemble without extra tools
- Three-layer Tritech liner resists punctures
- Corrosion-resistant steel frame provides 48-inch wall depth
Cons
- Uses a cartridge filter pump rather than a sand filter
- Round footprint offers less swimming length than rectangular models
Good fit if
- You want an all-in-one bundle that includes a ladder, pump, and cover.
- You need a 48-inch water depth within a 14-foot circular footprint.
Skip if
- You prefer a sand filtration system over cartridge filters.
- You need long lap lanes best suited for rectangular pool frames.
Verdict: Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14' x 48" Round Pool Set delivers a 4,024-gallon capacity and full accessory kit for medium yards. Its steel ClickConnect frame and Tritech liner offer dependable 48-inch depth without complicated assembly.
Bestway APX 365 31'4" x 16' Framed Pool
Best for: large yards requiring year-round high-capacity swimming
- Use
- Poolside, Above Ground Pools (what this guide is about)
- Dimensions
- 31'4" x 16' x 52"
- Water Capacity
- 13,798 gallons
- Pool Height
- 52 inches
- Filter Pump Type
- Sand filter pump
- Liner Material
- 3-layer Tritech
View on Amazon: Bestway APX 365 31'4" x 16' Framed Pool Affiliate link
This large rectangular above-ground pool measures 31 feet 4 inches by 16 feet with a 52-inch wall height and a 13,798-gallon water capacity. It features a galvanized steel frame with ClickConnect joints and a 3-layer Tritech liner with Polar-Shield for year-round setup. If you have substantial yard space and want high water capacity with an included 2,200-gallon sand filter pump, ladder, and cover, this setup matches your needs.
Pros
- 2,200-gallon sand filter pump with filtration balls included
- 3-layer Tritech liner reinforced with cold-resistant Polar-Shield
- Rust-resistant galvanized steel frame with ClickConnect joints
- Comes with ladder and pool cover
Cons
- Footprint of 31 feet 4 inches requires substantial level yard space
- High water demand needing 13,798 gallons to reach 90% capacity
Good fit if
- You have space for a 31'4" by 16' pool that holds 13,798 gallons.
- You want an all-season pool structure you can leave up through winter.
- You want a package that includes a sand filter pump, cover, and ladder.
Skip if
- You lack the ground clearance needed for a 31-foot long installation.
- You prefer a compact pool with lower total water volume.
Verdict: Bestway APX 365 31'4" x 16' Framed Pool Set provides a 13,798-gallon capacity supported by a galvanized steel frame and winter-rated liner. Its bundled 2,200-gallon sand filter pump, ladder, and cover supply complete hardware for large backyards.
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 18' x 9' x 48" Pool Set
Best for: rectangular yards needing an all-in-one pool kit
- Use
- Backyard, Outdoor, Poolside, Above Ground Pools (what this guide is about)
- Dimensions
- 18 ft. x 9 ft.
- Water Capacity
- 3,548 gallons
- Pool Height
- 48 in.
- Shape
- Oval
- Filter Pump Type
- Cartridge filter pump
View on Amazon: Bestway Steel Pro MAX 18' x 9' x 48" Pool Set Affiliate link
This rectangular above ground pool measures 18 feet by 9 feet with a 48-inch wall height and a 3,548-gallon capacity. It features a corrosion-resistant steel frame with ClickConnect joints and a 3-layer Tritech puncture-resistant liner. Bestway includes a 1,500-gallon cartridge filter pump, ladder, and pool cover in the box. You will appreciate this set if you want a complete, large-footprint swimming setup without sourcing accessories separately.
Pros
- Corrosion-resistant steel frame with tool-free ClickConnect joints
- Puncture-resistant 3-layer Tritech liner
- Includes 1,500-gallon cartridge pump, ladder, and pool cover
- Large 3,548-gallon water capacity at 90 percent full
Cons
- Uses a cartridge filter pump rather than a sand filter
- Weighs 162 pounds before adding water
Good fit if
- You want an 18-by-9-foot rectangular pool with a ladder and cover included.
- You prefer a tool-free frame setup using click connectors.
Skip if
- You prefer a sand filter pump instead of cartridge filtration.
- You need a round pool footprint for your backyard space.
Verdict: Bestway Steel Pro MAX 18' x 9' x 48" Pool Set delivers a 3,548-gallon rectangular swimming area complete with essential maintenance accessories. Its ClickConnect steel frame and 3-layer liner provide a durable, tool-free setup for larger yards.
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15' x 48" Pool Set
Best for: backyards needing a complete round pool package
- Use
- Outdoor, Poolside, Above Ground Pools (what this guide is about)
- Dimensions
- 15 ft.
- Water Capacity
- 4,231 gallons
- Pool Height
- 48 in.
- Shape
- Round
- Filter Pump Type
- Filter pump
View on Amazon: Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15' x 48" Pool Set Affiliate link
This round above-ground pool provides a 15-foot diameter and 48-inch wall height, holding 4,231 gallons at 90 percent capacity. It features a corrosion-resistant steel frame with tool-free ClickConnect joints and a puncture-resistant three-layer Tritech liner. The package includes a filter pump, ladder, and protective cover. It suits you if you need a mid-sized circular pool package with essential maintenance accessories ready for backyard assembly.
Pros
- Includes filter pump, ladder, and pool cover
- Three-layer Tritech puncture-resistant liner
- Corrosion-resistant steel frame with ClickConnect joints
- Holds 4,231 gallons at 90 percent capacity
Cons
- Includes a standard filter pump instead of a sand pump
- Circular footprint requires equal clearance in all directions
Good fit if
- You want an all-in-one package with a ladder, cover, and pump included.
- You have yard space for a 15-foot round pool with 48-inch walls.
- You prefer a tool-free frame assembly system.
Skip if
- You prefer an upgraded sand filtration system out of the box.
- You need a rectangular or oval footprint to fit narrow yard dimensions.
Verdict: Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15' x 48" Round Pool Set provides a balanced circular footprint with an included ladder, cover, and pump. Its ClickConnect steel frame and Tritech liner ensure straightforward assembly and durable puncture resistance.
Bestway Power Steel 24' x 12' x 52" Frame Pool
Best for: large yards needing high-capacity rectangular swimming setups
- Use
- Backyard, Outdoor, Poolside, Above Ground Pools (what this guide is about)
- Dimensions
- 24 ft. x 12 ft.
- Water Capacity
- 7,937 gallons
- Pool Height
- 52 in.
- Shape
- Rectangular
- Filter Pump Type
- Sand filter pump
View on Amazon: Bestway Power Steel 24' x 12' x 52" Frame Pool Affiliate link
This rectangular above-ground pool gives you a 24-foot by 12-foot footprint with a 52-inch wall height and a 7,937-gallon water capacity at 90 percent full. The frame uses corrosion-resistant steel with tool-free quick-click connectors, paired with a three-layer puncture-resistant Tritech liner. It includes a 1,500-gallon sand filter pump, ladder, pool cover, and chemical dispenser. It suits you if you need a large rectangular swimming area with filtration included.
Pros
- Includes 1,500-gallon sand filter pump
- Corrosion-resistant steel frame with tool-free Seal & Lock assembly
- Three-layer Tritech puncture-resistant liner
- Package includes ladder, pool cover, and ChemConnect dispenser
Cons
- Large 24-foot by 12-foot footprint requires extensive level ground
- Total weight is 351 pounds
Good fit if
- You have a yard large enough to fit a 24-foot by 12-foot footprint.
- You want an included sand filter pump, ladder, and cover in the box.
- You prefer a 52-inch wall height for deeper water.
Skip if
- You have limited yard space that cannot accommodate a 288-inch length.
- You need a lightweight pool package that is easy to move solo.
Verdict: Bestway Power Steel 24' x 12' x 52" Pool Set provides a high-capacity rectangular frame with a durable Tritech liner. The included 1,500-gallon sand filter pump, ladder, and cover supply complete hardware for large backyard spaces.
Bestway Hydrium 18' x 52" Steel Wall Pool Set
Best for: year-round semi-permanent backyard swimming
- Use
- Poolside, Above Ground Pools (what this guide is about)
- Dimensions
- 18 ft.
- Water Capacity
- 7,192 gallons
- Pool Height
- 52 inches
- Filter Pump Type
- Sand filter pump
- Frame Material
- Galvanized steel
View on Amazon: Bestway Hydrium 18' x 52" Steel Wall Pool Set Affiliate link
This Bestway Hydrium round pool measures 18 feet across and 52 inches deep, holding 7,192 gallons of water. Unlike standard soft-sided frame pools, it uses solid galvanized steel walls and a cold-resistant Polar-Shield liner designed to stay up all year. It includes a 1,600-gallon sand filter pump, ladder, skimmer, and covers. It suits you if you want a semi-permanent backyard pool without taking it down every winter.
Pros
- Galvanized steel side walls and frame built for year-round outdoor setup
- Includes 1,600-gallon sand filter pump with filtration balls
- Polar-Shield inner liner resists cold temperatures and UV exposure
- Comes with ladder, surface skimmer, ChemConnect dispenser, and two covers
Cons
- Requires screwdriver, wrench, and knife for assembly rather than tool-free setup
- Semi-permanent steel build is significantly heavier to relocate than soft-sided pools
Good fit if
- You want an above-ground pool that can stay assembled outdoors through all seasons.
- You have yard space for an 18-foot circular footprint holding 7,192 gallons of water.
- You prefer a sand filtration system over a standard paper cartridge pump.
Skip if
- You prefer a temporary pool that packs away easily at the end of each summer.
- You want a completely tool-free setup.
Verdict: Bestway Hydrium 18' x 52" Steel Wall Pool provides a durable, semi-permanent swimming area backed by rigid steel walls and a sand filter system. It is a practical upgrade if you want to skip yearly assembly and teardown cycles.
Bestway Hydrium 24' x 12' Steel Wall Pool
Best for: year-round semi-permanent backyard installations
- Use
- Poolside, Above Ground Pools (what this guide is about)
- Dimensions
- 24 ft. x 12 ft.
- Water Capacity
- 7,157 gallons
- Pool Height
- 52 in.
- Filter Pump Type
- Sand filter pump
- Frame Material
- Galvanized steel
View on Amazon: Bestway Hydrium 24' x 12' Steel Wall Pool Affiliate link
This Bestway Hydrium pool is a semi-permanent above ground model designed for year-round backyard setup. It measures 24 feet by 12 feet with a 52-inch wall height and holds 7,157 gallons of water at 90 percent capacity. Galvanized steel walls and top platforms provide rigid structural support. It suits you if you need a durable, large-capacity rectangular pool with an included 1,600-gallon sand filter pump, ladder, and protective covers.
Pros
- Galvanized steel walls and supports designed for year-round setup
- Includes 1,600-gallon sand filter pump and ChemConnect dispenser
- Comes with ladder, surface skimmer, ground cover, and pool cover
- Large 7,157-gallon water capacity at 90 percent fill
Cons
- Requires assembly with screwdriver, wrench, and knife
- Large 24-foot by 12-foot footprint requires substantial yard clearance
Good fit if
- You want a semi-permanent steel-wall pool you can leave up year-round.
- You have space for a 24-foot by 12-foot pool that holds 7,157 gallons.
- You want an all-in-one set with a sand filter pump, ladder, and skimmer.
Skip if
- You need a compact pool for a small yard.
- You prefer a tool-free setup process.
Verdict: Bestway Hydrium 24' x 12' Steel Wall Pool delivers year-round durability through rigid galvanized steel side walls and a 7,157-gallon water capacity. It gives you a complete semi-permanent package that includes a 1,600-gallon sand filter pump, ladder, and protective covers.
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14' x 8'2" Oval Pool Set
Best for: narrow yards needing an oval footprint
- Use
- Poolside, Above Ground Pools (what this guide is about)
- Dimensions
- 14' x 8'2"
- Pool Height
- 39.5 in.
- Shape
- Oval
- Filter Pump Type
- Cartridge filter pump
- Liner Material
- Tritech
View on Amazon: Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14' x 8'2" Oval Pool Set Affiliate link
This oval above ground pool measures 14 feet by 8 feet 2 inches with a 39.5-inch wall height. You get a corrosion-resistant steel frame with the Seal and Lock System, a Tritech liner, and a cartridge filter pump. It includes a safety ladder, ChemConnect chemical dispenser, and built-in flow control drain valve. It suits you if you need an elongated pool footprint for narrow yard spaces.
Pros
- Oval footprint fits narrow yard layouts
- Includes safety ladder, cartridge pump, and ChemConnect dispenser
- Corrosion-resistant steel frame with Seal and Lock System
- Built-in flow control drain valve connects to a garden hose
Cons
- 39.5-inch wall height is shallower than 48-inch or 52-inch models
- Uses a cartridge filter pump rather than a sand filter system
- No ground cloth or pool cover listed in package
Good fit if
- You have a long, narrow yard that fits an oval shape better than a circle.
- You want a mid-depth 39.5-inch pool that is easy to enter.
- You need a bundled package that includes a ladder and chemical dispenser.
Skip if
- You want deep 48-inch or 52-inch pool walls.
- You require a high-capacity sand filter pump.
Verdict: Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14' x 8'2" Oval Pool Set provides an elongated oval design with a steel frame and included ladder for yards that cannot accommodate large circular pools.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14' x 33" Round Pool | Bestway APX 365 20' x 52" Pool Set | Bestway Steel Pro MAX 12' x 30" Pool Set | Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14ft x 48in Round Pool Set | Bestway APX 365 31'4" x 16' Framed Pool | Bestway Steel Pro MAX 18' x 9' x 48" Pool Set | Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15' x 48" Pool Set | Bestway Power Steel 24' x 12' x 52" Frame Pool | Bestway Hydrium 18' x 52" Steel Wall Pool Set | Bestway Hydrium 24' x 12' Steel Wall Pool | Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14' x 8'2" Oval Pool Set |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 14 ft. | 20 ft | 12 ft | 14 ft | 31'4" x 16' x 52" | 18 ft. x 9 ft. | 15 ft. | 24 ft. x 12 ft. | 18 ft. | 24 ft. x 12 ft. | 14' x 8'2" |
| Water Capacity | 2,700 gal. | 8,781 gallons | 1,710 gal. | 4,024 gallons | 13,798 gallons | 3,548 gallons | 4,231 gallons | 7,937 gallons | 7,192 gallons | 7,157 gallons | not stated |
| Pool Height | 33 in. | 52 in | 30 inches | 48 in | 52 inches | 48 in. | 48 in. | 52 in. | 52 inches | 52 in. | 39.5 in. |
| Shape | Round | not stated | Round | Round | not stated | Oval | Round | Rectangular | not stated | not stated | Oval |
| Filter Pump Type | Cartridge filter pump | Sand filter pump | Cartridge pump | Cartridge filter pump | Sand filter pump | Cartridge filter pump | Filter pump | Sand filter pump | Sand filter pump | Sand filter pump | Cartridge filter pump |
| Liner Material | Tritech | 3-layer Tritech | DuraPlus | Tritech | 3-layer Tritech | Tritech | Tritech | Tritech | not stated | not stated | Tritech |
| Frame Material | Corrosion-resistant steel | Galvanized steel | Corrosion-resistant steel | Steel | Galvanized steel | Corrosion-resistant steel | Steel | Corrosion-resistant steel | Galvanized steel | Galvanized steel | Corrosion-resistant steel |
| Assembly Time | 40 minutes | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Features | Filter Pump | Pool Cover, Filter Pump, Sand Filter Pump, Ladder | Filter Pump | Pool Cover, Filter Pump, Ladder | Pool Cover, Filter Pump, Sand Filter Pump, Ladder | Pool Cover, Ladder | Pool Cover, Filter Pump, Ladder | Pool Cover, Filter Pump, Sand Filter Pump, Ladder | Filter Pump, Sand Filter Pump, Ladder | Pool Cover, Filter Pump, Sand Filter Pump, Ladder | Filter Pump |
| Use | Poolside, Above Ground Pools | Poolside, Above Ground Pools | Poolside, Above Ground Pools | Outdoor, Poolside, Above Ground Pools | Poolside, Above Ground Pools | Backyard, Outdoor, Poolside, Above Ground Pools | Outdoor, Poolside, Above Ground Pools | Backyard, Outdoor, Poolside, Above Ground Pools | Poolside, Above Ground Pools | Poolside, Above Ground Pools | Poolside, Above Ground Pools |
| Height | 33" | 52" | 30" | 48" | 52" | 48" | 48" | 52" | 52" | 52" | 43 inches |
| Port Size | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 2 Inch |
| Weight | 78 pounds | 292 pounds | 30 pounds | 129 pounds | not stated | 162 pounds | 128 pounds | 351 pounds | not stated | not stated | 111 pounds |
| Size | 14' x 33", Round | 20' x 52" | 12ft. X 30in. + Accessories | 14' x 48" , Gray Stone Print | 31'4" x 16' x 52" | 18' x 9' x 48" | not stated | 24ft. X 12ft. X 52in. + Sand Filter Pump | 18' x 52" | 24' x 12' x 52" | 14' x 8'2" x 39.5" |
| Color | Gray | Gray | Gray | Stack Stone | Gray | Gray | Gray | Gray | Dark Gray | Brown | Gray |
| Model | 56597E | 561KDE | Steel Pro MAX | 105619GUSX23 | 561KKE-BW | 1056711USX23 | 56915E | 56477E | 561RME-BW | 561CXE-BW | 56622E |
You can compare filtration specs across the best robotic pool cleaners for above ground pools to automate your maintenance.
How to choose the right one
-
Check pool shape for space
Your yard layout determines which shape fits best. Round pools like the Steel Pro MAX 14' x 33" offer a uniform diameter for circular spaces. Rectangular models, such as the Power Steel 24' x 12', maximize swimming length in narrow backyards. Oval options, like the 14' x 8'2" Steel Pro MAX, provide a middle ground for irregular areas. Measure your available ground carefully before selecting a model to ensure proper fit and clearance.
-
Select depth for your needs
Pool depth affects comfort and usability. Shallower 30-inch or 33-inch models, like the Steel Pro MAX 12' or 14', are ideal for children or casual wading. Standard 48-inch depths, found in the 14' and 15' Steel Pro MAX sets, allow for comfortable swimming and diving. Deeper 52-inch walls, seen in the APX 365 and Hydrium series, provide a more robust structure for year-round use. Choose a height that matches your intended swimming style and safety requirements.
-
Choose filtration type wisely
Filtration systems maintain water clarity. Cartridge filter pumps, included with most Steel Pro MAX models, are easy to clean and maintain. Sand filter pumps, bundled with the APX 365 and Power Steel sets, handle larger water volumes and require less frequent backwashing. The Hydrium series also utilizes sand filtration for semi-permanent installations. Consider your maintenance preference and the pool's water capacity when deciding between these two filtration methods for optimal performance.
-
Evaluate frame construction quality
Frame durability impacts pool lifespan. The Steel Pro MAX series uses a ClickConnect steel frame for tool-free assembly, making setup straightforward. The APX 365 and Hydrium lines feature galvanized steel walls for enhanced rust resistance and semi-permanent stability. The Power Steel series employs a robust frame for large rectangular pools. Inspect the frame material and connection type to ensure the pool can withstand local weather conditions and provide long-term structural integrity.
-
Verify included accessories
Accessories vary by model. Some Steel Pro MAX sets include ladders and covers, while others may only offer the pump. The APX 365 and Hydrium series typically come with complete hardware, including sand filters, ladders, and protective covers. The Power Steel set also provides essential maintenance tools. Check the product specifications for included items to avoid purchasing additional accessories separately. Ensuring all necessary components are in the box simplifies initial setup and ongoing maintenance.
Frequently asked questions
Does Bestway offer rectangular framed pools for narrow yards?
Yes, Bestway provides rectangular options for spaces with limited width. The Steel Pro MAX 18' x 9' x 48" Pool Set delivers a 3,548-gallon capacity with a ClickConnect steel frame. The Power Steel 24' x 12' x 52" Frame Pool offers a larger 351-pound setup for high-capacity needs. Both models support tool-free assembly and include essential accessories for rectangular yard layouts.
Which Bestway pool is best for year-round use?
The APX 365 series and Hydrium models are designed for semi-permanent or year-round installation. The APX 365 20' x 52" Pool Set includes a sand filter pump and winter-ready construction. The Hydrium 18' x 52" and 24' x 12' Steel Wall Pools feature rigid galvanized steel walls. These options allow you to skip annual teardown cycles while maintaining durable, winter-rated liners.
What is the largest Bestway framed pool capacity available?
The APX 365 31'4" x 16' Framed Pool holds the highest capacity at 13,798 gallons. It measures 376 inches in length and 192 inches in width with a 52-inch height. This model supports a 2,200-gallon sand filter pump. It is built for large yards requiring high-volume swimming and includes a ladder and protective cover.
Does the Bestway Steel Pro MAX include a ladder?
Not all Steel Pro MAX models include a ladder in their standard package. The 14' x 48" Round Pool Set and the 15' x 48" Round Pool Set both include a ladder along with a filter pump and cover. However, the 14' x 33" Round Pool and the 12' x 30" Pool Set list only a filter pump. You should check the specific accessory list for each model.
Are there oval Bestway pools for irregular spaces?
Yes, Bestway offers an oval option for yards that cannot accommodate circular shapes. The Steel Pro MAX 14' x 8'2" Oval Pool Set provides an elongated footprint with a 43-inch height. It includes a steel frame and a ladder. This shape is ideal for narrow or irregular yard layouts where a round pool would not fit efficiently.
What type of filtration do Bestway pools use?
Bestway pools utilize either cartridge filter pumps or sand filter pumps. The Steel Pro MAX series typically includes a cartridge filter pump for standard maintenance. The APX 365, Power Steel, and Hydrium series often bundle a sand filter pump. Sand filters, such as the 1,500-gallon or 2,200-gallon units, provide robust filtration for larger water volumes and year-round setups.
How heavy are the heaviest Bestway framed pools?
The heaviest models in this selection are the APX 365 31'4" x 16' and the Power Steel 24' x 12' x 52". The Power Steel set weighs 351 pounds. The 31'4" APX 365 is significantly larger in volume but its package weight is not explicitly listed in the same way. The APX 365 20' x 52" Set weighs 292 pounds. These weights reflect the included pumps, frames, and accessories.










