Intex Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Pool 24ft x 12ft Review
- AboveGroundSplash
- Jun 7
- 8 min read
Updated: Jun 8
The Intex Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Pool (24ft x 12ft x 52in) is a popular large above-ground pool option for families who want maximum swimming space without the cost of an in-ground pool. Pools in this size range are designed for regular use and can accommodate multiple users comfortably. With its durable steel frame, included sand filter pump, and spacious design, it’s built for both relaxation and active use.
In this review, we’ll break down the key features, pros and cons, setup requirements, and whether this pool is the right choice for your space and budget. If you’re comparing options, you can also explore more rectangular above ground pools or browse all above ground pools.
Quick Verdict: Is the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft Pool Worth It?
The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft x 52in is worth considering if you want a large rectangular above-ground pool with enough space for swimming, games, and regular family use. With an 8,403-gallon water capacity, it feels much more substantial than smaller frame pools and gives you more usable swim length than many round above-ground pools.
One of the biggest advantages of this set is that it includes a 2,100 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump, along with a ladder, pool cover, and ground cover. That makes it a stronger complete package than basic pool sets that rely on smaller cartridge filters.
Best for: Families, larger backyards, and buyers who want more swimming space
Not ideal for: Small yards, uneven ground, or buyers who want a quick setup pool
This is a big pool, so the main thing to think about before buying is the setup area. You need a large, level base with enough room around the pool for the frame supports, ladder access, and maintenance.
If you don’t need this much space, smaller options may be more practical — see our guide to the best above ground pools for small backyards.
Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft specs at a glance
Key Features
The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft stands out because it combines a large rectangular swimming area with a stronger frame and a more useful included filtration setup than many basic above-ground pool packages.
Durable Ultra XTR frame
The galvanized steel frame is designed for long-term outdoor use, with inner and outer powder coating to help resist rust. For a pool this size, frame strength matters because the structure has to support 8,403 gallons of water once filled.
Large rectangular swimming space
The 24ft x 12ft shape gives families more usable swim length than many round above-ground pools. It works well for swimming, games, floating, and multiple people using the pool at the same time.
Included sand filter pump
This set includes a 2,100 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump, which is a useful upgrade over smaller cartridge-style filter systems. For a large 8,403-gallon pool, having a stronger included pump makes the package more practical from day one. See our filtration and pumps guide if you want to compare pump options.
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. The pool is still a large setup, but the frame system helps make assembly more straightforward.
Complete pool package
The set includes the pool, sand filter pump, ladder, pool cover, and ground cover. That means you get the main setup items in one package, although you will still need chemicals, test strips, and a properly prepared level base before filling.
Who This Pool Is Best For
The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft is best for families who want a large above-ground pool that feels closer to a proper backyard swimming pool than a small summer splash pool.
It is a good fit for:
Families who want more swimming length than a round pool offers
Backyards with enough space for a 24ft x 12ft rectangular frame
Pool owners who prefer a sand filter pump over a cartridge filter
Homes where several people will use the pool at the same time
Buyers who want a complete set with the ladder, cover, ground cover, and pump included
This pool makes the most sense if you have a large, level area and want something that can handle regular summer use. It is not the type of pool you buy for a tiny garden or a quick weekend setup.
Who Should Skip This Pool
This is not the right pool for every backyard. Because of its size and water capacity, the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft needs more planning than a smaller metal frame or Easy Set pool.
You may want to skip it if:
Your yard is not level or you cannot prepare a flat base
You only want a quick weekend splash pool
You do not have enough room around the pool for the side supports
You want something very easy to drain, move, and store frequently
You are not prepared for regular water testing, filtration, and chemical care
The pool itself is a strong option, but the size is the deciding factor. If you do not have the space, time, or setup area, a smaller rectangular or round above-ground pool may be a better choice.
Included 2,100 GPH Sand Filter Pump
One of the better parts of this set is that it includes a 2,100 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump. For a pool with an 8,403-gallon capacity, this is an important detail because the filtration system has to work harder than it would on a smaller backyard pool.
A sand filter pump is also easier to live with over a full season because you are not constantly replacing paper cartridges. The sand can last for several years with regular backwashing, although you will still need to keep up with water testing, chlorine levels, brushing, and general pool maintenance.
The included pump makes this package stronger than many basic above-ground pool sets, but it does not remove the need for proper water care. You will still need test strips, chlorine or sanitiser, pH balancing products, and regular cleaning to keep the water clear.
Setup and Installation
The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft uses an Easy Lock frame system, which helps make assembly more straightforward. The frame pieces are designed to snap together without locking pins, so the structure is simpler to build than older-style frame systems.
However, this is still a large pool. The most important part of setup is preparing the ground properly before you start filling it.
Because this pool holds 8,403 gallons of water, ground preparation is one of the most important parts of the setup. The base should be flat, level, and stable before filling. Even small leveling issues can become much more noticeable once the pool is full.
Before setting up this pool, make sure you have:
A large, level space for the full 24ft x 12ft footprint
Extra clearance around the pool for the frame supports
Enough room for ladder access and maintenance
A stable base that will not shift once the pool is filled
Access to water, drainage, and a suitable power source for the pump
This is not a pool to rush. Taking extra time on the base can help protect the frame, liner, and overall safety of the setup.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Large 24ft x 12ft rectangular swimming area
8,403-gallon water capacity
Includes 2,100 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump
Comes with ladder, pool cover, and ground cover
Galvanized steel frame with powder coating
3-ply puncture-resistant liner
Better swim length than many round above-ground pools
Good option for families who want a larger seasonal pool
Cons
Needs a large, level setup area
Not ideal for small yards
Takes more planning than smaller frame pools
Higher water, chemical, and maintenance needs than smaller pools
May require extra help during setup
Not as easy to drain, move, or store as a smaller pool
Maintenance and Running Costs
The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft is a large above-ground pool, so the running costs will be higher than a smaller frame pool. The 8,403-gallon capacity means you will use more water, more chemicals, and more filtration time throughout the season.
The included 2,100 GPH sand filter pump helps with circulation and filtration, but clear water still depends on regular maintenance. You should expect to test the water often, keep chlorine or sanitiser levels balanced, manage pH and alkalinity, brush the 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 pool skimmer net
A pool vacuum or robotic cleaner
A solar cover if you want to reduce heat loss and debris
For help with water balance, see our chemicals and water care guide for above-ground pools.
Is This Pool Worth It?
The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft x 52in is worth it if you want a large rectangular above-ground pool and have the space to set it up properly. The 8,403-gallon capacity gives families plenty of room, while the rectangular shape makes it better for swimming, games, and active use than many round pools.
The included 2,100 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump also makes the set more practical than basic pool packages that rely on smaller cartridge filters. You also get the ladder, pool cover, and ground cover included, which makes the overall package feel more complete.
The main reason not to buy it is size. This pool needs a large, level area, proper ground preparation, and regular maintenance. If your backyard can handle it, it is a strong option for families who want more than a small splash pool without moving into a permanent in-ground pool.
FAQs About the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft Pool
How many gallons is the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft x 52in pool?
The Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft x 52in pool has a water capacity of 8,403 gallons.
What pump comes with the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft pool?
This pool set includes a 2,100 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump. The listing also identifies the included pump as model 26645EG.
Does the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft pool come with a ladder?
Yes. The set includes a ladder, along with a sand filter pump, pool cover, and ground cover.
Is the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft 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 x 12ft pool, setup still takes planning.
The most important part is preparing a flat, level base before filling the pool.
Is the included sand filter pump enough for this pool?
The included 2,100 GPH sand filter pump is a useful starting setup for an 8,403-gallon above-ground pool. However, you still need to keep up with regular water testing, chlorine levels, brushing, backwashing, and general pool maintenance to keep the water clear.
What comes in the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft pool set?
The set includes the rectangular Ultra XTR pool, 2,100 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump, ladder, pool cover, and ground cover.
Is the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft better than a round above-ground pool?
It depends on your backyard and how you plan to use the pool. The rectangular shape gives more usable swim length, which is useful for swimming, games, and family activities. A round pool may be easier to fit into some gardens and can sometimes be simpler to set up.
Who is the Intex Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft pool best for?
This pool is best for families with a large, level backyard who want a spacious above-ground pool for swimming, relaxing, and 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 12ft x 52in is a strong option if you want a large rectangular above-ground pool with more swim space than most round models. The 8,403-gallon capacity, galvanized steel frame, 3-ply liner, and included 2,100 GPH Krystal Clear sand filter pump make it a more complete package than many basic frame pool sets.
The main thing to think about is whether your backyard can handle the size. This pool needs a large, level setup area, enough clearance around the frame supports, and regular water care throughout the season.
If you have the space and are prepared for the setup, it is a solid choice for families who want a bigger above-ground pool without moving into permanent pool construction.
Helpful Guides to Read Next
If you are still comparing pool options, these guides may also help:
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