Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in Round Pool Review
- AboveGroundSplash
- 2 days ago
- 11 min read
The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in round pool is a big step up from a smaller metal frame or inflatable above-ground pool. This is a large family pool with a 12,481-gallon water capacity, a stronger Ultra XTR frame, and an included 2,800 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump.
The main reason to choose this pool is simple: it gives you a lot of swimming space without going into permanent in-ground pool construction. The 24ft round shape works well for families, relaxing, floating, and casual swimming, but it still needs proper planning. You need a large, level area, enough space around the pool, and a realistic maintenance routine for a pool that holds over 12,000 gallons of water.
In this review, we’ll look at what comes with the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in pool, where it makes sense, where it may be too much, and whether it is the right choice for your backyard. You can also compare more round above-ground pools or browse all above-ground pools if you are still deciding which size is right for your space.
Quick Verdict: Is the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft Round Pool Worth It?
The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in round pool is worth considering if you want a large above-ground pool with enough room for regular family use. The 12,481-gallon capacity makes it feel much more substantial than smaller frame pools, and the round shape works well for social swimming, floating, games, and families using the pool together.
One of the strongest parts of this set is the included 2,800 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump, listed as model 26647EG. For a pool this size, filtration matters. A small cartridge filter would feel underpowered, so the included sand filter pump makes the package more practical from the start.
Best for: Families, larger backyards, summer entertaining, and buyers who want a spacious round above-ground pool
Not ideal for: Small yards, uneven ground, quick setup, or buyers who want something easy to drain and move
This pool can be a brilliant family setup if you have the space and prepare the ground properly. But it is not a casual, low-effort pool. Once you move into this size, water care, setup area, and long-term maintenance become much more important.
If the 24ft round pool feels too large for your backyard, you may want to compare smaller round above-ground pools before buying.
Before You Buy: Important Size and Setup Considerations
Before buying the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in pool, make sure your yard can actually handle it. A 24ft round pool sounds simple enough on paper, but once you factor in the ladder, pump, hoses, cover, and space needed for access, it takes up a serious amount of backyard space.
Before buying this pool, check that you have:
A large, level area for the full 24ft round pool
Extra clearance around the pool for access and maintenance
Enough room for the ladder, pump, hoses, and cover
A suitable power source for the sand filter pump
A plan for filling and draining the pool
Enough help for setup
A realistic water-care routine for a 12,481-gallon pool
Ground preparation is the part I would take most seriously. With a pool this large, a small leveling issue can become a much bigger problem once the pool is full. If your yard is sloped, soft, uneven, or too tight around the edges, this may not be the right size to buy.
Specs at a Glance
The key thing to notice is that this is a large round pool, not a small seasonal splash pool. The 24ft diameter gives families plenty of usable space, and the 12,481-gallon capacity means it needs proper filtration, chemical care, and a solid setup area.
The included 2,800 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump is a strong part of the package, but the pool size also means more water, more chemicals, more cleaning, and more planning than a smaller above-ground pool.
Key Features
The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in stands out because it combines a large round swimming area with a stronger frame, a 3-ply liner, and a more useful sand filter pump than many basic pool packages.
Large 24ft round swimming area
The biggest reason to choose this pool is the size. A 24ft round pool gives families a lot of room to swim, float, play, and relax without feeling cramped.
A round pool is especially good for social use. It works well for families with kids, casual swimming, floating, and several people using the pool at the same time. It does not give you the same long swim lane as a rectangular pool, but it often feels more open and natural for general backyard use.
Large-capacity 12,481-gallon design
This pool holds 12,481 gallons of water, which is a big jump from smaller above-ground pools. That extra capacity is what gives the pool its family-friendly feel, but it also means setup and maintenance need to be taken seriously.
More water means more chemicals, more filtration time, more cleaning, and more planning when it comes to filling and draining the pool.
Durable Ultra XTR frame
The Ultra XTR frame uses galvanized steel with inner and outer powder coating to help resist rust. For a pool holding 12,481 gallons of water, frame strength is a major part of the buying decision.
The listing also mentions high-strength T-joints with a UV inhibitor for weather resistance and lasting use. In plain English, this is designed to be stronger and more durable than a basic metal frame pool, although it still needs a proper level base and regular care.
3-ply puncture-resistant liner
The liner uses a 3-ply design with high-strength polyester mesh and an extra-thick PVC layer. That matters because a pool this size puts a lot of pressure on the liner once it is full.
The liner is stronger than what you would usually get on a cheaper basic pool, but it still needs a properly prepared base. Sharp stones, roots, rough ground, or debris underneath the pool can still cause problems.
Included 2,800 GPH sand filter pump
This set includes a 2,800 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump, listed as model 26647EG. That is a big advantage because a 12,481-gallon pool needs proper circulation and filtration to stay clear.
A sand filter pump is usually easier to live with than a small cartridge filter on a pool this size. You still need to backwash the filter and maintain the water, but you are not constantly swapping out paper cartridges.
Easy Lock assembly system
The frame uses Intex’s Easy Lock system, so the metal frame pieces are designed to snap together without locking pins or tools. That should make the frame assembly more straightforward than older-style metal frame pools.
That said, “easy” is relative. The connection system may be simple, but this is still a large 24ft round pool. You will need space, time, patience, and ideally more than one person helping with setup.
Complete pool package
The set includes the pool, 2,800 GPH sand filter pump, ladder, pool cover, and ground cover. That gives you the main setup items in one package.
You will still need chemicals, test strips or a testing kit, a skimmer net, and some type of pool cleaning routine. A large pool like this is not something you fill once and ignore for the rest of the summer.
Who This Pool Is Best For
The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in round pool is best for families who want a large above-ground pool with enough room for regular summer use. It is a good option if you want a big backyard pool but do not want a permanent in-ground installation.
It is a good fit for:
Families who want a large round above-ground pool
Backyards with enough space for a 24ft diameter pool
Buyers who want more swimming space than smaller frame pools offer
Homes where several people will use the pool at the same time
Pool owners who prefer a sand filter pump over a cartridge filter
Families who want a long-term seasonal pool rather than a small temporary setup
This pool makes the most sense if you have a large, level area and want a proper family pool for the summer. It gives you a lot of space, but it also expects more from you in setup and maintenance.
Who Should Skip This Pool
This is not the pool I would recommend if you want something quick, compact, or easy to move. The 24ft size is the main selling point, but it is also the main reason some buyers should choose a smaller option.
You may want to skip it if:
Your yard is small, narrow, sloped, or uneven
You cannot prepare a flat, level base
You want a quick weekend setup pool
You do not have room around the pool for access and maintenance
You want something easy to drain, move, and store
You are not prepared for regular water testing and chemical care
You do not want the higher water and maintenance needs of a 12,481-gallon pool
The pool itself is a strong option, but only if your space suits it. If your backyard is tight or difficult to level, a smaller round pool may be much easier to live with.
Included 2,800 GPH Sand Filter Pump
One of the best parts of this set is the included 2,800 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump, listed as model 26647EG. For a 12,481-gallon round pool, filtration is not something to treat as an afterthought.
The pump helps circulate the water and filter out debris using sand instead of disposable paper cartridges. That makes more sense for a pool this size, because a small cartridge system would usually need more frequent attention.
The sand can last up to 5 years with regular backwashing, according to the product listing. That can make the system easier to live with over a full season, although it still needs regular care.
The sand filter pump can make maintenance easier, but it does not make the pool maintenance-free. You still need to test the water, maintain chlorine or sanitizer levels, manage pH and alkalinity, skim debris, brush the pool surfaces, and backwash the filter when needed.
The included pump is a genuine advantage, but clear water still depends on a consistent maintenance routine.
If you want to understand how sand filters compare with cartridge systems, see our above-ground pool filtration and pumps guide.
Setup and Installation
The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in uses the Easy Lock system, which means the frame pieces are designed to snap together without locking pins or tools. That makes the frame assembly more straightforward than some older-style metal frame pools.
That said, the setup is still a big job because of the pool size. A 24ft round pool needs space, patience, and proper ground preparation.
Before installation, make sure you have:
A flat, level base
Enough room for the full 24ft round pool
Several people available to help
A clear plan for filling the pool
A safe location for the pump and hoses
A suitable outdoor power source
A drainage plan for the end of the season
The base matters more than anything else. Do not place this pool on uneven ground, soft soil, a slope, or an area with stones and roots underneath. Taking extra time to prepare the ground can help protect the liner, frame, and overall safety of the pool.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Large 24ft round swimming area
12,481-gallon water capacity
Includes 2,800 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump
Pump model 26647EG listed
Comes with ladder, pool cover, and ground cover
Galvanized steel frame with inner and outer powder coating
3-ply puncture-resistant liner
Easy Lock system for tool-free frame assembly
Good option for families and entertaining
More practical filtration setup than basic cartridge-filter pools
Cons
Needs a large, level setup area
Not suitable for small yards
Takes more planning than smaller frame pools
Higher water, chemical, and maintenance needs than smaller pools
May require several people during setup
Not easy to drain, move, or store
Round shape does not give the same swim length as a rectangular pool
Maintenance and Running Costs
The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in gives you a lot of pool for the money, but the running costs will be higher than a smaller frame pool. The 12,481-gallon capacity means more water, more chemicals, more filtration time, and more cleaning throughout the season.
The included 2,800 GPH sand filter pump helps with circulation and filtration, but it does not replace regular care. You should expect to test the water often, keep chlorine or sanitizer levels balanced, manage pH and alkalinity, skim debris, brush the pool walls and floor, and backwash the sand filter when needed.
You may also want to budget for:
Pool test strips or a water testing kit
Chlorine tablets, granules, or shock
pH and alkalinity balancing products
Replacement sand when needed
A skimmer net
A pool vacuum or robotic cleaner
A solar cover to reduce heat loss and debris
Winterizing supplies if the pool will stay up seasonally
The running costs are not a reason to avoid this pool if you really want the size. They are just something to understand before buying. A 24ft round pool needs a proper maintenance routine, or the water can become frustrating quickly.
For help keeping the water balanced, see our chemicals and water care guide for above-ground pools.
Is This Pool Worth It?
The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in round pool is worth it if you want a large above-ground pool for regular family use and have the space to set it up properly. The 12,481-gallon capacity, galvanized steel frame, 3-ply liner, Easy Lock system, and included 2,800 GPH sand filter pump make it a much more serious setup than a small frame pool.
The round shape is great for families, relaxing, and casual swimming. It gives you a lot of open water space and works well when several people are using the pool at once.
The main reason not to buy it is practicality. This is a big pool. It needs a large, level base, plenty of water, regular maintenance, and enough room around it to use it comfortably.
If your backyard can handle it, this is a strong family pool. If your space is limited or you want something easier to manage, a smaller round pool will probably be the better choice.
FAQs About the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in Round Pool
How many gallons is the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in pool?
The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in round pool has a water capacity of 12,481 gallons.
What pump comes with the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in pool?
This pool set includes a 2,800 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump. The listing identifies the included pump as model 26647EG.
Does the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in pool come with a ladder?
Yes. The set includes a ladder, along with a 2,800 GPH sand filter pump, pool cover, and ground cover.
Is the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in pool hard to set up?
The frame uses Intex’s Easy Lock system, which is designed to make assembly more straightforward. However, because this is a large 24ft round pool, setup still takes planning, a level base, and more than one person.
Is the included 2,800 GPH sand filter pump enough for this pool?
The included 2,800 GPH sand filter pump is a useful starting setup for a 12,481-gallon above-ground pool. However, you still need regular water testing, chemical balancing, brushing, debris removal, and backwashing to keep the water clear.
What comes in the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in pool set?
The set includes the round Ultra XTR pool, 2,800 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump, ladder, pool cover, and ground cover.
Is the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in suitable for small yards?
No. This pool is best suited to larger backyards with enough space for the full 24ft diameter, ladder access, pump placement, and maintenance.
Is a 24ft round pool better than a rectangular pool?
It depends on how you plan to use it. A 24ft round pool is good for families, relaxing, floating, and social use. A rectangular pool is usually better if you want more swim length for laps or games that need a longer shape.
Who is the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in pool best for?
This pool is best for families with a large, level backyard who want a spacious round above-ground pool for regular summer use. It is not ideal for small yards, uneven ground, or buyers who want a quick setup pool.
Final Verdict
The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 52in round pool is a strong option if you want a large family-friendly above-ground pool with a better frame and filtration setup than many basic pool packages. The 12,481-gallon capacity, galvanized steel frame, 3-ply liner, Easy Lock system, and included 2,800 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump make it a serious seasonal pool.
The biggest thing to think about is whether your backyard can realistically handle the size. This pool needs a large, level setup area, regular water care, and enough space around it for access and maintenance.
If you have the space and are prepared for the setup, this can be a brilliant family pool for summer. If your yard is smaller or you want something easy to manage, a smaller round pool will likely be a better fit.
Set also comes with the following size pools:
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