When summer arrives, there’s nothing quite like relaxing in the cool waters of your above-ground pool. But to keep the water fresh, clean, and inviting, you need a solid pool filter. A good filter will ensure that debris, dirt, and algae don’t ruin your pool experience, giving you peace of mind and crystal-clear water all season long.
With so many options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming, but that’s where we come in. We’ve done the research, checked out user reviews, and analyzed the top pool filters on the market to help you find the best solution for your needs.
Above-ground pool filters come in several types: sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth (DE). Each type has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s essential to consider the size of your pool, the amount of maintenance you’re willing to do, and your budget when making a choice.
Sand filters, for example, are known for their low maintenance, making them a popular choice for pool owners who want to spend more time swimming than cleaning. On the other hand, cartridge filters offer fine filtration and are excellent for capturing small debris but require more frequent cartridge replacements.
To help you navigate the options, we’ve curated a list of the 9 best above-ground pool filters that will keep your pool water clean, clear, and free of unwanted debris throughout the summer. Whether you’re looking for the best overall option, the most affordable choice, or a system that requires minimal upkeep, we’ve got you covered.
Our list includes well-known brands like Hayward and Intex, offering everything from budget-friendly options to high-performance systems. We’ve also made sure to include a range of products suited to different pool sizes, from small backyard pools to larger above-ground models.
In this guide, you’ll find our top picks, including our Best Overall, Runner-Up, and Best Bang for the Buck selections, alongside detailed insights into what makes each filter stand out. We’ll also break down the features you should look for when choosing the right filter and give you answers to frequently asked questions about pool filtration. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision and keep your pool sparkling all summer long.
So let’s dive in!
| Category | Product Name | Type | Flow Rate (GPH) | Pool Size Capacity | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Hayward W3S180T ProSeries Pool Sand Filter | Sand Filter | 1,800 | Up to 18,000 gallons | Powerful, low maintenance |
| Runner-Up | Intex 26645EG Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump | Sand Filter | 1,700 | Up to 18,000 gallons | Affordable, easy to install |
| Best Bang For the Buck | Summer Waves 1,000 GPH SkimmerPlus Filter Pump System | Cartridge | 1,000 | Up to 10,000 gallons | Budget-friendly, combined skimmer and pump |
Above-Ground Pool Filters Comparison
| Product | Type | Flow Rate (GPH) | Pool Size Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hayward W3S180T ProSeries | Sand Filter | 1,800 | Up to 18,000 gal |
| Intex 26645EG Krystal Clear | Sand Filter | 1,700 | Up to 18,000 gal |
| Summer Waves 1,000 GPH SkimmerPlus | Cartridge | 1,000 | Up to 10,000 gal |
| Intex 28637EG Krystal Clear Cartridge | Cartridge | 530 | Up to 10,000 gal |
| Intex 28635EG Krystal Clear Cartridge | Cartridge | 1,320 | Up to 18,000 gal |
| Hayward W3EC50AC Perflex DE | DE Filter | 1,250 | Up to 15,000 gal |
| XtremePowerUS 2,640 GPH Sand Pump | Sand Filter | 2,640 | Up to 25,000 gal |
| Intex 29000E Type A Pool Filter Cartridge | Cartridge | N/A | N/A |
| Hayward W3CC15093S XStream Combo | Sand Filter | 1,500 | Up to 20,000 gal |
Best Overall- Hayward W3S180T ProSeries Pool Sand Filter
If you want a powerful, reliable filter that can handle large pools and keep your water sparkling, the Hayward W3S180T ProSeries is an excellent choice. It uses sand filtration, which means less hassle with cartridge changes and strong cleaning power. Plus, it’s built to last with durable materials.
What We Like
- Filters water quickly with an 1,800 GPH flow rate
- Low maintenance—just backwash the sand to clean
- Works great for pools up to 18,000 gallons
- Solid build quality and trusted brand
What We Don’t Like
- Higher upfront cost compared to cartridge filters
- Sand replacement needed every few years
- Heavier and bulkier than some other models
Product Specs
- Type: Sand Filter
- Flow Rate: 1,800 GPH
- Pool Capacity: Up to 18,000 gallons
- Weight: 45 lbs (empty)
- Dimensions: 23.5″ diameter x 34″ height
Runner-Up- Intex 26645EG Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump
The Intex 26645EG is a top-notch sand filter pump that gives great value. It has a slightly lower flow rate than the Hayward but still performs well and is easier on your budget.
What We Like
- Affordable price for a sand filter pump
- Easy to install and use
- Good for mid-size pools up to 18,000 gallons
- Includes hose connectors and installation kit
What We Don’t Like
- Slightly noisier than some competitors
- Sand not included with the pump
- May require frequent backwashing in dirty pools
Product Specs
- Type: Sand Filter Pump
- Flow Rate: 1,700 GPH
- Pool Capacity: Up to 18,000 gallons
- Weight: 25 lbs
- Dimensions: 18″ diameter x 26″ height
Best Bang for the Buck- Summer Waves 1,000 GPH SkimmerPlus Filter Pump System
If you want to spend less but still get solid cleaning, the Summer Waves SkimmerPlus is a great option. This system combines a skimmer and filter pump, perfect for smaller pools and light debris.
What We Like
- Very budget-friendly
- Combines skimmer and filter pump in one unit
- Easy setup, no tools needed
- Works well for pools up to 10,000 gallons
What We Don’t Like
- Lower flow rate compared to sand filters
- Filter cartridge needs frequent replacement
- Not ideal for large or very dirty pools
Product Specs
- Type: Cartridge Filter Pump
- Flow Rate: 1,000 GPH
- Pool Capacity: Up to 10,000 gallons
- Weight: 10 lbs
- Dimensions: 12″ x 10″ x 20″
Best for Small Pools- Intex 28637EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump
Small pool owners will love the Intex 28637EG, which is compact, quiet, and easy to use.
What We Like
- Ideal for pools under 10,000 gallons
- Quiet operation
- Easy cartridge replacements
- Compact and portable
What We Don’t Like
- Lower flow rate (530 GPH)
- Cartridge replacements can add up over time
- Not great for larger or heavily used pools
Product Specs
- Type: Cartridge Filter Pump
- Flow Rate: 530 GPH
- Pool Capacity: Up to 10,000 gallons
- Weight: 12 lbs
- Dimensions: 14″ x 12″ x 20″
Best for Large Pools- Intex 28635EG Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump
Need a stronger cartridge filter for your bigger pool? The Intex 28635EG is perfect for pools up to 18,000 gallons with a higher flow rate.
What We Like
- Strong flow rate (1,320 GPH) for cartridge filters
- Simple controls and setup
- Compatible with many above-ground pools
- Comes with cartridge filters included
What We Don’t Like
- Cartridge replacements required regularly
- Filter lifespan depends on pool use and environment
Product Specs
- Type: Cartridge Filter Pump
- Flow Rate: 1,320 GPH
- Pool Capacity: Up to 18,000 gallons
- Weight: 18 lbs
- Dimensions: 20″ x 16″ x 22″
Easiest to Use- Hayward W3EC50AC Perflex DE Modular Pool Filter
The Hayward Perflex DE filter uses diatomaceous earth (DE) for ultra-fine filtration, capturing tiny particles other filters miss. It’s modular, so cleaning and maintenance are easier.
What We Like
- Extremely effective filtration (down to 5 microns)
- Modular design simplifies cleaning
- Good for medium to large pools
- Durable construction
What We Don’t Like
- DE powder must be handled carefully
- More expensive than cartridge or sand filters
- Requires more maintenance than sand filters
Product Specs
- Type: DE Filter
- Flow Rate: 1,250 GPH
- Pool Capacity: Up to 15,000 gallons
- Weight: 30 lbs
- Dimensions: 22″ x 18″ x 30″
Best Features- XtremePowerUS 2,640 GPH Sand Above-Ground Pool Pump
If flow rate is your top priority, the XtremePowerUS stands out with an impressive 2,640 GPH capacity. It’s a powerful sand filter pump with some excellent additional features.
What We Like
- Highest flow rate on our list
- Large 2-inch plumbing fittings for better water flow
- Easy to backwash and maintain
- Suitable for pools up to 25,000 gallons
What We Don’t Like
- Bulkier and heavier than many models
- Higher price point
- Can be overkill for smaller pools
Product Specs
- Type: Sand Filter Pump
- Flow Rate: 2,640 GPH
- Pool Capacity: Up to 25,000 gallons
- Weight: 55 lbs
- Dimensions: 24″ diameter x 36″ height
Best Filter Cartridges- Intex 29000E Type A Pool Filter Cartridge
Cartridge filters are only as good as the cartridges themselves. The Intex 29000E Type A cartridge is a popular replacement choice for many above-ground pool pumps.
What We Like
- Compatible with many Intex models
- Easy to clean and replace
- Effective at trapping fine debris
- Affordable pack options available
What We Don’t Like
- Cartridges need frequent replacement
- Not reusable indefinitely
Product Specs
- Type: Replacement Cartridge
- Dimensions: Standard Type A size
- Compatible Models: Various Intex pool filters
Best Pump/Filter Combo- Hayward W3CC15093S XStream Pool Filter System
If you want the convenience of a combined pump and filter system, the Hayward XStream is a solid choice. It pairs a cartridge filter with a reliable pump in one compact unit.
What We Like
- Compact, all-in-one design
- Easy to install and operate
- Good flow rate (1,500 GPH)
- Compatible with many above-ground pools
What We Don’t Like
- Cartridge replacements needed
- Slightly more expensive than standalone pumps
Product Specs
- Type: Cartridge Filter Pump System
- Flow Rate: 1,500 GPH
- Pool Capacity: Up to 20,000 gallons
- Weight: 25 lbs
- Dimensions: 18″ x 15″ x 22″
How We Chose the Best Above-Ground Pool Filters
We looked at a mix of factors to find these top filters:
- Type of filter (sand, cartridge, DE) and how easy it is to clean
- Flow rate—higher flow means faster water circulation
- Pool size compatibility to match different pool volumes
- User reviews for real-world reliability and performance
- Price and value considering initial and ongoing costs
- Ease of installation and maintenance
What to Consider When Choosing an Above-Ground Pool Filter
Knowing your pool’s type and size, along with your pump’s specifications, is key to choosing the right filter for your above-ground pool. Keep reading to discover more about these important factors and other essential features to consider when picking the perfect pool filter.
Type
- Sand filters use sand to trap dirt, easy to maintain with backwashing.
- Cartridge filters use replaceable cartridges, great for fine debris but need regular replacements.
- DE (diatomaceous earth) filters provide the finest filtration but require more maintenance.
Pump Compatibility
Make sure the filter you choose matches your pool pump’s flow rate for the best cleaning efficiency.
Additional Features
Look for features like easy backwash valves, multiport valves, or combined skimmer systems to make your life easier.
Ease of Use
Filters that are simple to install and maintain will save you time and frustration.
Installation
Consider if you want a DIY setup or professional installation help.
Cleaner Type
Think about the type of debris your pool collects—leaves, bugs, algae—and pick a filter that handles it well.
FAQs
How often should I clean my pool filter?
For sand filters, backwash every 1-2 weeks or when pressure rises 8-10 psi. Cartridge filters need cleaning every 2 weeks and replacement every 1-2 seasons. DE filters require DE replenishment after backwashing.
Can I use a sand filter for small pools?
Yes, but smaller cartridge filters are often more cost-effective for pools under 10,000 gallons.
Are DE filters better than sand filters?
DE filters clean smaller particles and give clearer water, but require more maintenance and care.
How do I know what size filter I need?
Match the filter’s flow rate and capacity with your pool size to ensure proper circulation and cleaning.
