There are plenty of reasons to want an outdoor pool, letting the kids play, cooling down on a hot day, and relaxing after a long day at work.
If you are going to invest in a pool, it is well worth considering an Intex pool, with quality products to suit the needs of everyone.
Today, we will look at the Intex Prism Frame vs Ultra Frame. We will see what features they have in common and how they differ.
After the comparison, there will be a handy comparison chart, some pros and cons for both, and our final verdict.
The Intex Prism Frame and the Intex Ultra Frame are similar in several respects so we’ll start by looking at what these swimming pools have in common.
Intex Prism Frame vs Ultra Frame – Similarities
Quick Glance
Name
Intex 26711EH 12 Foot x 30 Inch Prism Frame Round Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool Set with 530 GPH Filter Pump and Easy Set-Up
Our Pick INTEX 26325EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 16ft x 48in – Includes 1500 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture Resistant – Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble
Materials
3-ply, puncture-resistant
3-ply, puncture-resistant
Frame
Metal, powdered coating to prevent corrosion. T-joints
Metal, powdered coating to prevent corrosion. T-joints
Dual Suction Outlet Fittings
Hydro Aeration Technology
Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump
What’s Included
Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump, removable ladder, 15.5sqft ground cloth, debris cover with rope ties
Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump, removable ladder, 16.5sqft ground cloth, debris cover with rope ties
Name
Intex 26711EH 12 Foot x 30 Inch Prism Frame Round Above Ground Outdoor Backyard Swimming Pool Set with 530 GPH Filter Pump and Easy Set-Up
Materials
3-ply, puncture-resistant
Frame
Metal, powdered coating to prevent corrosion. T-joints
Dual Suction Outlet Fittings
Hydro Aeration Technology
Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump
What’s Included
Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump, removable ladder, 15.5sqft ground cloth, debris cover with rope ties
Our Pick Name
INTEX 26325EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 16ft x 48in – Includes 1500 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture Resistant – Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble
Materials
3-ply, puncture-resistant
Frame
Metal, powdered coating to prevent corrosion. T-joints
Dual Suction Outlet Fittings
Hydro Aeration Technology
Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump
What’s Included
Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump, removable ladder, 16.5sqft ground cloth, debris cover with rope ties
Materials
The Intex Prism Frame and the Intex Ultra Frame are made out of puncture-resistant 3-ply material with a durable liner.
The Intex above ground pools are not only incredibly strong, but they are also pleasing to the eye.
Suction Outlets
Both the Intex Prism Frame and the Intex Ultra Frame have dual-outlet suction outlet fittings.
This helps to improve the clarity of the water and keep things more hygienic.
The Metal Frame
The strong metal frame has an outer powder coating that protects the frame from corrosion.
The Intex Prism Frame and the Intex Ultra Frame have T-joint connectors that are strong yet easy to assemble without tools.
Set-Up
Considering the size, the Intex Prism Frame and the Intex Ultra Frame are very quick to set up.
The Intex pools will be ready for water in just 45 minutes
What’s Included
In the box of the Intex Prism Frame and the Intex Ultra Frame, you will find a Krystal Clear Sand Filter that is corrosion resistant.
There is a removable ladder that has slip-resistant steps and a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds.
You will also receive a ground cloth and a debris cover with roe tie to keep it from blowing off, both of these are made from durable materials.
For the next part, we will look at how the Intex Prism Frame and the Intex Ultra Frame are different.
Differences Between Intex Prism Frame and Intex Ultra Frame
Appearance
There is no doubt that these are above ground pools. The main difference is its size.
Intex Prism Frame
This Intex above ground pool has a light grey lining. It is available in a round or oval form. This particular model is 14ft x 42 inches wide (there are other sizes) and it weighs 127.7 pounds. It has a 3,357-gallon water capacity at 90%.
Intex Ultra Frame
The lining is a darker grey. It is available in round and rectangular forms. The size we have chosen is 16ft x 48 inches and weighs 216 pounds. At 90%, the water capacity is 5,061 gallons.
The Winner Is- A Tie
Water Filtration
As we mentioned, they both come with a Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump. They can be set with a timer with 1 to 12-hour preset cycles. The pumps are both 10 diameters and have corrosion-resistant tanks, but they vary in their abilities.
Intex Prism Frame
The system flow rate is 750 gallons per hour and the pump capacity is 1000 gallons per hour. This Intex swimming pool also comes with Hydro Aeration Technology for improved circulation and filtration. The system mixes air into the water for added clarity and with increased negative ions, the air is fresher around the pool.
Intex Ultra Frame
The system flow rate is 1,050 gallons per hour and the pump capacity is 1,200 gallons per hour. There is no mention of Hydro Aeration Technology.
The Winner Is- The Intex Prism Frame
Pros and Cons
Just before we offer our final opinion on the two Intex pools, here are some pros and cons to further help you make your mind up.
Intex Prism Frame
Pros:
- It’s excellent value for money considering the size and materials
- Noticeable improvements from previous Intex pools
- It is easy to keep this Intex pool clean and well maintained
Cons:
- Check carefully for leaks. Some issues with new pools leaking.
Intex Ultra Frame
Pros:
- It’s an impressive size, although only 2ft larger in diameter, you will notice the difference
- Set up is easy once your ground is level
- It will last for many years if properly taken care of
Cons:
- The pump is not sufficient for the water capacity
The Final Verdict
In order to get the most out of either of these Intex swimming pools, you really need to take the time to level the ground properly, even watch online videos if you have to. It will make such a big difference in the end.
Really, these Intex pools are very similar. The frame and materials are durable and will last a long time. The pumps are of good quality, but you might need extra filtration depending on your environment (dust, debris, etc.). They also come with the same accessories.
For us, the decision was down to the size, and again this may depend on the size of your family or the friends you have over. Originally, we had decided on the Intex Prism Frame because it was much lighter and easier to set up (in terms of weight). However, in the end, we chose the Intex Ultra Frame. You will need two people to set it up, but it is worth it for that additional space. Also, although slightly more expensive, the Intex Ultra Frame comes with a 2-year warranty, making it better value for money.
Water recreational activities are fun but always have your eye out for safety.
You can find several helpful water safety tips here.
Amazon’s Best Selling Above Ground Swimming Pools
Check out the customer ratings on these pools! Bestseller No. 1 Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14' x 33" Round Above Ground Pool Set | Includes 530gal Filter Pump - ENDLESS SUMMER FUN: Kids and adults can enjoy swimming in Bestway's Steel Pro Above Ground Pool. It's the affordable alternative to a more complicated steel-walled pool, yet it provides durability and stability greater than inflatable pool options.
- SUPERIOR FRAME DESIGN: A rust and corrosion-resistant coating protects the pool from UV and abrasion damage. A 3-ply PVC support band surrounds the pool for additional stability.
- MADE TO LAST: A durable, yet lightweight PVC material provides structural integrity to your pool. It's tear-resistant and won't fade overtime to sun exposure.
- EASY TO ASSEMBLE: No tools are required to install this above ground pool in your backyard. A flow-controlled drain valve provides a simple solution for emptying the excess water.
- NO MORE CHEMICAL FLOATERS: Chemconnect chemical dispenser replaces the need for a traditional floating chemical cleaner. It simply attaches to a valve on the pool wall.
Bestseller No. 2 INTEX 26339EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 24ft x 52in – Includes 2800 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture Resistant – Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble - EXPERIENCE THE ULTRA DIFFERENCE – Uniquely designed frame combines high quality galvanized steel with precision engineered locking system, enhancing the overall quality, durability and stability of the above ground pools; 2 year warranty included for peace of mind
- EASY TO ASSEMBLE – Ready for water in just 60 minutes; Ultra XTR swimming pools above ground are designed with an Easy Lock System, making it easy to assemble; frame components simply snap together with no locking pins or additional tools needed; Hi-impact steps for ease of getting in and out of the pool; included pool cover to keep debris out and ground cloth for added protection
- RUST RESISTANT – Encapsulated with inner and outer powder coating ensures the ultimate resistance to rust; the T-Joints are engineered for high strength and infused with UV inhibitor to ensure weather resistance and long service life
- SUPER-TOUGH – Made with puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material, this above ground pool is built to resist the wear and tear of summer fun; in case of any damage, a patch is included for easy fixes
- KRYSTAL CLEAR SAND FILTRATION – The included Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump (#26647EG) provides excellent water filtration as the 6-function control valve allows the pool owner to: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system
Bestseller No. 3 Funsicle 22ft x 52in Round Oasis Above Ground Pool, with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder - LUXURY POOL EXPERIENCE: Ideal for up to 11 people – Perfect for families, socializing & swimming
- SIMPLE SETUP: SmartConnect poles with convenient snap-in design
- MADE TO LAST: Ultra-strong oval metal frame with anti-corrosive matte finish & durable non-phthalates liner
- 2-IN-1 SKIMMER PUMP & ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES: Comes with SFX1500 SkimmerPlus Filter Pump (with GFCI) & type C filter cartridge. Includes deluxe maintenance kit, pool cover, ground cloth & repair patch
- CLIMB IN & OUT: SureStep Ladder included for easy pool access
SaleBestseller No. 4 Intex 26355EH Ultra XTR 18' x 9' x 52" Rectangular Frame Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with 1200 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Pool Cover and Ladder - EXPERIENCE THE ULTRA DIFFERENCE – Uniquely designed frame combines high quality galvanized steel with precision engineered locking system, enhancing the overall quality, durability and stability of the above ground pools; 2 year warranty included for peace of mind. Age grade: 6+
- EASY TO ASSEMBLE – Ready for water in just 60 minutes; Ultra XTR swimming pools above ground are designed with an Easy Lock System, making it easy to assemble; frame components simply snap together with no locking pins or additional tools needed; Hi-impact steps for ease of getting in and out of the pool; included pool cover to keep debris out and ground cloth for added protection
- RUST RESISTANT – Encapsulated with inner and outer powder coating ensures the ultimate resistance to rust; the T-Joints are engineered for high strength and infused with UV inhibitor to ensure weather resistance and long service life
- SUPER-TOUGH – Made with puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material, this above ground pool is built to resist the wear and tear of summer fun; in case of any damage, a patch is included for easy fixes
- KRYSTAL CLEAR SAND FILTRATION – The included Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump (#26643EG) provides excellent water filtration as the 6-function control valve allows the rectangle pool owner to: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system
Bestseller No. 5 Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14 Foot x 48 Inch Round Metal Frame Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with 1,000 Filter Pump, Ladder, and Cover, Gray - Everyone will enjoy swimming and splashing all summer in this above-ground pool ideal for families looking for an affordable option for incorporating a pool in their backyard
- DuraPlus enhanced 3-ply liner provides a support band for additional stability to the pool fencing wall for ultimate durability that ensures your pool will last all summer
- Outdoor pool is built with a steel frame that is held together with a FrameLink System that provides remarkable strength as one of the sturdiest pools for family and friends
- Simple assembly and take-down process of the round pool for off-season storage; No tools required to connect hose to flow control valve to drain the water out of the plunge pool efficiently
- Accessories include pool, ladder, pool cover, and a swimming pool cover, and pump
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API