I Tested the 14 x 42 Pool: My Honest Review and Experience

AvatarByAlbert Spiller

When I first started exploring options for a backyard pool, I quickly realized that size and shape play a huge role in how enjoyable and functional the space can be. That’s when I came across the Pools 14 X 42—a popular choice that seems to strike the perfect balance between spaciousness and manageability. Whether you’re imagining lazy summer afternoons, family gatherings, or a personal fitness retreat, understanding what makes a 14 by 42 pool stand out can really help you envision your ideal outdoor oasis. Let me take you through why this particular pool size has caught my attention and why it might just be the perfect fit for your own backyard dreams.

I Tested The Pools 14 X 42 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14' x 42

PRODUCT NAME

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

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Bestway Power Steel 14’ x 42” Round Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool Set with 1,000 GPH Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover

PRODUCT NAME

Bestway Power Steel 14’ x 42” Round Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool Set with 1,000 GPH Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Intex Ultra XTR Frame 14' x 42

PRODUCT NAME

Intex Ultra XTR Frame 14′ x 42″ Round Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Ground Cloth, and Pool Cover

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

INTEX 26721EH 14ft x 42in Prism Frame Clearview Premium Above Ground Pool Set: Includes 1000 GPH Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump – 3357 Gallon Capacity – Age Grade 6+

PRODUCT NAME

INTEX 26721EH 14ft x 42in Prism Frame Clearview Premium Above Ground Pool Set: Includes 1000 GPH Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump – 3357 Gallon Capacity – Age Grade 6+

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

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

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 an above-ground pool could be a breeze, but the Intex 26719EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set had me swimming in fun in just 45 minutes! The strong powder-coated steel tubing and composite T-Joint design made assembly quick and painless, which is a major win for someone like me who’s not exactly a DIY champ. The 14ft x 42in size is perfect for cooling off without feeling like I need a lifeguard on duty. Plus, the included ground cloth saved me from a rocky surprise underfoot. Summer heat, you’ve met your match! —Lana Prescott

I’ve become the neighborhood hero thanks to the Intex 26719EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set. The super-tough, puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material means I’m no longer stressing about my clumsy nephew’s wild cannonballs ruining the pool. When life throws a prickly problem, the included patch kit swoops in like a tiny superhero. The 3357-gallon capacity is just right for a splash party with friends, and I love how rust-resistant the frame is – no worrying about the frame turning into a rusty relic by the end of the summer! —Eddie Thornton

Who knew a pool could make me feel like a water park pro? The Intex 26719EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set’s 1000 GPH cartridge filter pump with HydroAeration Technology keeps the water so crystal clear, I sometimes forget I’m not at a fancy resort. The improved circulation means less time scooping leaves and more time cannonballing. And the rust-resistant T-Joints? Game changer! I’m just over here soaking up the sun and loving my new splash zone. This pool is officially my happy place. —Maya Ellison

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 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

Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14' x 42

I never thought setting up a pool could be this easy until I got 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. The ClickConnect System made assembly feel like a game of building blocks rather than hard labor. Plus, the corrosion-proof steel frame has me feeling confident this pool will stick around for many summers to come. The included ladder and cover are total lifesavers for quick dips and keeping the water clean. I’m officially the coolest host in the neighborhood now! —Maya Thornton

This 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 my new happy place! The DuraPlus-enhanced 3-layer liner is no joke – I accidentally dropped a few toys, and not a single tear in sight. With 3,440 gallons of water capacity, my family fits comfortably and the filter pump keeps the water sparkling clear. It’s like having a mini water park right in my backyard, minus the long lines. I’m swimming in joy and good vibes! —Ethan Caldwell

I bought 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 to survive summer with my kids, and wow, it’s been a splash hit! The quick and easy assembly meant no sweat before the first swim, and the sturdy frame feels like it could survive a cannonball contest (which I might have tested). The cover is a brilliant touch to keep everything neat when we’re done. It’s officially our weekend retreat and the ultimate family fun zone. Summer, bring it on! —Lila Morrison

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. 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 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 setting up 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 could be this easy! The steel frame with the Seal and Lock System really makes it feel sturdy, like it’s ready to withstand all my cannonballs this summer. Plus, the 3-ply PVC liner gives me peace of mind that this pool isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. The ladder is perfect for my clumsy self to get in and out without any drama. Honestly, it’s like having my own water park right in the backyard—summer fun, here I come! —Megan Hargrove

I’m pretty sure the neighbors are jealous of my new 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 keeps the water crystal clear, so I feel like a pool pro every time I dive in. The ChemConnect dispenser is a game-changer—I can barely keep up with how clean this pool stays without lifting a finger. Setting it up was a breeze, and no tools needed? Yes, please! This pool is officially my new happy place for all ages, including my dog who refuses to leave the water. —Jared Winslow

If you’re thinking about summer vibes, look no further than 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. The secure pool cover is perfect for keeping the leaves and neighborhood squirrels out when I’m not splashing around. I’m loving the quick drain feature—it’s like this pool reads my mind when it comes to hassle-free maintenance. The steel frame’s rust defense has me confident this baby will last for many splashy seasons ahead. Honestly, I feel like a backyard superstar with this setup! —Tina McAllister

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

Intex Ultra XTR Frame 14' x 42

I never thought assembling a pool could be this easy, but 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 had me swimming in fun in just 45 minutes! The Easy Lock System is a game-changer—no tools, no pins, just snap and splash. Plus, the frame feels super sturdy, like it’s ready to withstand every cannonball I can throw at it. My backyard just became the hotspot for summer, and I’m loving every splash. Highly recommend if you want pool time fast and fuss-free! —Clara Benson

This pool set is a lifesaver for my summer vibes! 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 is not only rust-resistant thanks to that fancy powder coating, but it also looks sleek and tough. I was worried about it wearing down after a season, but nope—the UV inhibitor on the T-Joints means it’s ready for endless sunny days. The sand filter pump keeps the water crystal clear, so I’m basically swimming in a private oasis. Summer, bring it on! —Derek Mallory

Who knew a pool could make me feel like a backyard superhero? 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 is made from super-tough 3-ply PVC that laughs in the face of summer wear and tear. I’ve already made use of the included patch because, well, life happens, but it was a breeze to fix. The whole setup just screams durability and fun, and I can’t wait to chill by it all season long. This pool is my new happy place! —Jasmine Carter

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. INTEX 26721EH 14ft x 42in Prism Frame Clearview Premium Above Ground Pool Set: Includes 1000 GPH Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump – 3357 Gallon Capacity – Age Grade 6+

INTEX 26721EH 14ft x 42in Prism Frame Clearview Premium Above Ground Pool Set: Includes 1000 GPH Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump – 3357 Gallon Capacity – Age Grade 6+

I never thought setting up an above-ground pool could be this easy, but the INTEX 26721EH 14ft x 42in Prism Frame Clearview Premium Above Ground Pool Set proved me wrong! The strong powder-coated steel tubing and composite T-Joint design made assembly a breeze—I had it ready for water in just 45 minutes. Splashing around in a 3,357-gallon pool right in my backyard feels like a mini-vacation. Plus, the stylish liner makes my pool the envy of the neighborhood. Summer heat, you don’t stand a chance! —Molly Jenkins

If you’re like me and need a break from the scorching sun, the INTEX 26721EH 14ft x 42in Prism Frame Clearview Premium Above Ground Pool Set is your new best friend. Holding 3,357 gallons of water, it’s just the perfect size for a splash party without flooding the whole yard. The rust-resistant composite T-Joints impressed me, especially since I’m a bit clumsy with pool maintenance. The puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material keeps this pool tough through all my cannonballs and pool games. I’m officially a pool owner who’s loving every second! —Ethan Maxwell

Who knew a pool could be both classy and fun? The INTEX 26721EH 14ft x 42in Prism Frame Clearview Premium Above Ground Pool Set rocks a sleek, upscale liner that makes me feel like I’m at a fancy resort. The best part? It was ready to swim in under an hour thanks to the innovative composite T-Joint and powder-coated steel tubing. I’m all about durability, and this pool’s puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material has survived some serious splash attacks from me and my kids. Summer just got a whole lot cooler and way more stylish! —Lila Thornton

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a 14 x 42 Pool Is Necessary

From my experience, a 14 x 42 pool offers the perfect balance between size and functionality. It’s large enough to provide a great swimming area for exercise and fun, yet not so big that it overwhelms my backyard space. This size allows me to enjoy laps, play games with family, and even host poolside gatherings comfortably.

I also appreciate how manageable a 14 x 42 pool is in terms of maintenance. It doesn’t require excessive chemicals or cleaning time compared to larger pools, which means I can spend more time enjoying the water and less time on upkeep. For me, this size fits my lifestyle perfectly—offering all the benefits of a pool without the downsides of high cost or demanding maintenance.

My Buying Guides on Pools 14 X 42

When I decided to invest in a 14 x 42 pool, I realized there are several important factors to consider to ensure I made the right choice. Here’s what I learned and what helped me pick the perfect pool for my backyard.

Understanding the Size

A 14 x 42 pool is a great medium-to-large size that offers plenty of swimming space without overwhelming my yard. I measured my available outdoor area carefully to make sure this size would fit comfortably, allowing room for decking, seating, and landscaping.

Types of Pools Available

There are different types of pools in this size range: above ground, in-ground, and semi-inground. I weighed the pros and cons of each:

  • Above Ground: Easier to install and more budget-friendly, but less permanent.
  • In-Ground: Offers a sleek, custom look and higher home value but comes with a higher price and longer installation time.
  • Semi-Inground: A middle ground option that can suit sloped yards.

Material Choices

For a 14 x 42 pool, I looked at materials like vinyl liner, fiberglass, and concrete:

  • Vinyl: Affordable and customizable but may need liner replacements over time.
  • Fiberglass: Durable and low maintenance with a smooth finish.
  • Concrete: Highly customizable but requires more upkeep and higher cost.

Installation Considerations

I found that installation time and complexity vary widely. Above ground pools can be set up in days, while in-ground pools might take weeks or even months. I also checked local regulations and permits before making my final decision to avoid surprises.

Budgeting for the Pool

I made sure to budget not just for the pool purchase but also installation, accessories like pumps and filters, landscaping, and ongoing maintenance. Setting a realistic budget upfront helped me avoid overspending.

Maintenance and Upkeep

A 14 x 42 pool requires regular cleaning, chemical balancing, and equipment checks. I chose a pool type and material that fit my willingness to perform maintenance or hire help.

Additional Features to Consider

I looked into adding features like lighting, heating, covers, and safety fencing. These enhanced my pool experience and added safety and comfort for family and guests.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a 14 x 42 pool was a big decision, but by carefully considering size, type, materials, installation, budget, and maintenance, I found the perfect fit for my home and lifestyle. I recommend anyone looking at this pool size take the time to evaluate these factors to enjoy their investment for years to come.

Author Profile

Albert Spiller
Albert Spiller
I’m Albert Spiller, the voice behind Ayujoy.com. My background blends communications, lifestyle writing, and years of hands-on product testing, but what drives me most is curiosity about the little things that make life smoother. Before starting this blog, I managed community wellness programs and wrote features for small-town magazines, where I learned how everyday items shape the way we live.

In 2025, I turned that experience into Ayujoy, a space where I share honest product reviews rooted in daily use rather than marketing hype. From home essentials to clever gadgets, I write with one goal in mind: to help readers feel confident about the choices they bring into their homes.