Price comparison of inflatable swimming pools of different brands
Summer is here, and there's no better way to beat the heat than with a cool dip in your own backyard. If you've ever shopped for an inflatable swimming pool, you know the options can feel overwhelming. From tiny kiddie pools that fit on a porch to family-sized oasis with built-in sun decks, the market is flooded with choices—each with its own price tag. Whether you're on a tight budget or willing to splurge for extra features like a canopy or an inflatable water mattress sun deck, finding the right pool means balancing cost, quality, and fun. In this article, we'll break down the top brands, their most popular models, and how much you can expect to pay. Let's dive in!
What to Consider Before You Buy
Before we jump into brand comparisons, let's talk about the key factors that influence both price and performance. Not all inflatable pools are created equal, and understanding these details will help you avoid buyer's remorse.
Size Matters: The first thing to ask is, "Who will use this pool?" A small 4-foot kiddie pool might cost less than $50, while a 12-foot family pool with a filter system could set you back $300 or more. Measure your backyard space—you don't want to buy a pool that's too big to set up!
Material Quality: Most inflatable pools are made from PVC, but thickness matters. Thicker PVC (measured in gauge) resists punctures and lasts longer. A 10-gauge pool might be cheaper, but a 15-gauge or 20-gauge model will stand up to rowdy kids and sharp twigs better.
Extra Features: Basic pools are just big inflatable tubs, but premium models come with bells and whistles: built-in seats, cup holders, canopies for shade, and even inflatable water mattress sun decks for lounging. There are also specialized options, like the portable sea pool for jellyfish protection (great for beach trips!) or an inflatable pool cover tent to keep leaves out overnight. These features add convenience—but they also add to the price.
Brand Reputation: Established brands like Intex and Bestway have a track record for reliability, but they often cost more than generic brands. Smaller brands might offer lower prices, but you'll want to check reviews for issues like leaks or flimsy pumps.
Top Brands and Their Inflatable Pools: A Deep Dive
Now, let's explore the most popular brands on the market. We'll break down their best-selling models, key features, and how much you'll pay—so you can find the perfect pool for your needs and budget.
1. Intex: The Budget-Friendly Workhorse
Intex is a household name in inflatable pools, and for good reason. They've been around for decades, offering affordable options for every family. Their pools range from tiny kiddie models to large above-ground frames, but their inflatable lines are where they really shine.
Top Model: Intex Easy Set Inflatable Pool (10ft x 30in)
The Easy Set is Intex's most popular inflatable pool, and it's easy to see why. It's quick to set up (just inflate the top ring, fill with water, and watch it rise!), and it's large enough for a family of 4 to splash around. Made from 10-gauge PVC, it's durable enough for kids but lightweight enough to store in a closet in winter.
Key Features: 10ft diameter, 30in depth, built-in drain plug, compatible with Intex's small filter pump (sold separately). No frills, but it gets the job done.
Pros
- Budget-friendly (starts at $60–$80)
- Super easy to set up (no tools needed)
- Lightweight and easy to store
- Compatible with Intex's affordable accessories (like filters)
Cons
- Thinner material (prone to punctures if not careful)
- No built-in seats or shade
- Filter pump sold separately (adds $30–$50)
2. Bestway: Premium Features for a Mid-Range Price
Bestway is another heavyweight in the inflatable pool game, known for stepping up the features without skyrocketing the price. They're a great choice if you want a bit more than the basics—think canopies, stronger materials, and even inflatable water mattress sun decks for ultimate relaxation.
Top Model: Bestway Power Steel Frame Pool with Water Mattress Sun Deck (14ft x 42in)
The Power Steel line is Bestway's flagship, and this model is a standout. Unlike purely inflatable pools, it has a metal frame for stability, but the inner liner is inflatable for comfort. What really sets it apart? The included inflatable water mattress sun deck—essentially a floating lounge pad attached to the pool's edge, perfect for soaking up the sun without getting fully wet.
Key Features: 14ft diameter, 42in depth, 3-ply PVC material (thicker than Intex), built-in filter pump, and the aforementioned sun deck. It also comes with a ground cloth to prevent punctures.
Pros
- Sturdy frame + inflatable liner = comfort and stability
- Inflatable water mattress sun deck adds luxury
- Thicker material (15-gauge) resists tears
- Filter pump included (no extra cost!)
Cons
- More expensive ($250–$300)
- Heavier and harder to store than fully inflatable models
- Sun deck takes extra time to inflate
3. Summer Waves: Stylish Designs for Small Spaces
Summer Waves is all about combining style and functionality, especially for families with limited backyard space. Their pools are often more compact but packed with clever features, like built-in canopies or inflatable seats. They're a bit pricier than Intex but more affordable than Bestway's premium models.
Top Model: Summer Waves Quick Set Inflatable Pool with Canopy (8ft x 30in)
The Quick Set with Canopy is perfect for parents who want to protect their kids from the sun without buying a separate umbrella. The canopy is attached to the pool's rim, so it moves with the water and won't blow away. At 8ft in diameter, it's smaller than Intex's Easy Set but still big enough for 2–3 kids or a small family.
Key Features: 8ft diameter, 30in depth, 12-gauge PVC, built-in canopy, drain plug, and a small repair kit (handy for minor punctures).
Pros
- Built-in canopy protects from sun (no extra cost!)
- Compact size fits small backyards or balconies
- Stylish design (available in blue or green)
- Repair kit included for peace of mind
Cons
- Smaller than other family pools (not ideal for large families)
- Canopy limits headroom for taller adults
- Pricey for the size ($120–$150)
4. Banzai: Kiddie Pools with a Fun Twist
Banzai specializes in inflatable pools for kids, and they're all about fun. Think slides, sprinklers, and bright, playful designs. While they don't make large family pools, their kiddie models are perfect for toddlers and young children—and they're surprisingly affordable.
Top Model: Banzai Twin Tunnel Inflatable Pool with Slide (6ft x 4ft)
This isn't just a pool—it's a mini water park! The Twin Tunnel has two inflatable tunnels for kids to crawl through, a small slide, and built-in sprinklers that spray water from the top. It's shallow (only 12in deep), so it's safe for toddlers, and the bright colors and playful design will keep kids entertained for hours.
Key Features: 6ft x 4ft size, 12in depth, 8-gauge PVC (lightweight but safe for kids), inflatable slide and tunnels, built-in sprinkler system.
Pros
- Super affordable ($40–$60)
- Built-in slide and sprinklers = endless fun for kids
- Shallow depth (safe for toddlers)
- Lightweight and easy to move around the yard
Cons
- Too small for adults or older kids
- Thin material (not meant for roughhousing)
- Sprinklers require a garden hose (not self-contained)
5. Jilong: Niche Pools for Special Needs
Jilong isn't as well-known as Intex or Bestway, but they specialize in unique inflatable pools, including the portable sea pool for jellyfish protection. If you live near the coast or love beach trips, this pool is a game-changer—it's a portable, enclosed pool that keeps jellyfish and other sea creatures out while letting you enjoy the ocean breeze.
Top Model: Jilong Portable Sea Pool for Jellyfish Protection (8ft x 24in)
This pool is designed to be used at the beach. It's made from thick, transparent PVC, so you can see the water around you, and the enclosed design keeps jellyfish, seaweed, and debris out. It's lightweight enough to carry in a backpack, and it inflates in minutes with a manual pump (included).
Key Features: 8ft diameter, 24in depth, 15-gauge transparent PVC, enclosed design, manual pump included, carry bag for transport.
Pros
- Perfect for beach trips (keeps jellyfish out!)
- Transparent material lets you enjoy the ocean view
- Lightweight and portable (includes carry bag)
- Manual pump included (no need for electricity)
Cons
- Niche product (only useful at the beach)
- More expensive than standard kiddie pools ($80–$100)
- Not suitable for large groups (only fits 2–3 people)
Price Comparison Table
| Brand | Model | Size | Material | Key Features | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intex | Easy Set (10ft x 30in) | 10ft diameter, 30in deep | 10-gauge PVC | Quick setup, drain plug, filter pump compatible | $60–$80 | Budget families, small backyards |
| Bestway | Power Steel with Sun Deck (14ft x 42in) | 14ft diameter, 42in deep | 15-gauge PVC + metal frame | Inflatable water mattress sun deck, filter pump included, ground cloth | $250–$300 | Large families, luxury seekers |
| Summer Waves | Quick Set with Canopy (8ft x 30in) | 8ft diameter, 30in deep | 12-gauge PVC | Built-in canopy, repair kit, compact design | $120–$150 | Small families, sun protection needs |
| Banzai | Twin Tunnel with Slide (6ft x 4ft) | 6ft x 4ft, 12in deep | 8-gauge PVC | Slide, tunnels, sprinklers, shallow depth | $40–$60 | Toddlers, young kids |
| Jilong | Portable Sea Pool for Jellyfish Protection (8ft x 24in) | 8ft diameter, 24in deep | 15-gauge transparent PVC | Enclosed design, manual pump, carry bag | $80–$100 | Beach trips, jellyfish-prone areas |
Factors That Drive Up the Price
Now that we've looked at specific brands and models, let's talk about why some inflatable pools cost more than others. Understanding these factors will help you decide where to splurge and where to save.
1. Size and Capacity
It's simple: bigger pools cost more. A small kiddie pool (4ft x 1ft) might be $30, while a 15ft family pool can be $300+. Larger pools require more material, stronger pumps, and often sturdier frames—all of which add to the price.
2. Material Thickness
Thicker PVC (measured in "gauge") is more durable but more expensive. 8–10 gauge is standard for kiddie pools, while family pools often use 12–15 gauge. For reference, 15-gauge PVC is about twice as thick as 8-gauge, so it resists punctures better but costs 2–3x more.
3. Extra Features
Features like canopies, slides, inflatable water mattress sun decks, or built-in filters can add $50–$150 to the price. For example, Bestway's sun deck adds about $70 to the cost of a basic frame pool. Is it worth it? If you'll use the feature regularly, yes—but if not, skip it to save.
4. Brand Name
Established brands like Intex and Bestway charge a premium for their reputation. You might pay $20–$50 more for a pool with their logo, even if the specs are similar to a generic brand. For some, the peace of mind (warranty, customer service) is worth it; for others, a no-name pool works just as well.
5. Specialized Use
Niche pools like the portable sea pool for jellyfish protection or an inflatable pool cover tent (which adds $40–$80) cost more because they're designed for specific needs. These are great if you have a unique use case, but they're overkill for most backyard pool shoppers.
Final Thoughts: Which Pool Is Right for You?
At the end of the day, the best inflatable swimming pool is the one that fits your budget, space, and family's needs. Here's a quick recap to help you decide:
- On a budget? Go with Intex's Easy Set ($60–$80). It's simple, affordable, and gets the job done.
- Have young kids? Banzai's Twin Tunnel Pool ($40–$60) will keep them entertained for hours.
- Want extra features? Bestway's Power Steel with Sun Deck ($250–$300) offers luxury without the price tag of a permanent pool.
- Need sun protection? Summer Waves' Quick Set with Canopy ($120–$150) is compact and shady.
- Love beach trips? Jilong's Portable Sea Pool ($80–$100) keeps jellyfish at bay.
Remember, the most expensive pool isn't always the best. Think about how often you'll use it, who will use it, and what features matter most. With the right pool, you'll create summer memories that last long after the water drains. Happy splashing!