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A pool is only as good as its filter, so it’s important to choose one that’s both effective and convenient for you.

Having your own pool is a great way to keep cool in the summer—as well as socialize with friends and family—but they do require precise maintenance to keep clean. No matter whether you have an in- or above-ground pool, a pool filter is a must-have accessory to keep the water fresh, clean, and sanitary. Because, after all, no one wants to swim in a dirty pool. (And, if you want to be proactive about keeping the pool clean, buy a pool cover and a pool vacuum.)

Filters work with your pool’s pump to circulate water and remove dirt and debris, and just like pools themselves, filters are available in a range of sizes and styles. Various models use different filter media (such as sand, cartridges, and diatomaceous earth) to capture debris floating in your pool water, which means there are quite a few filter options to choose from. We’ve assembled this list of top-rated products to help you find the best filter for your pool, as well as a quick rundown of considerations to keep in mind when purchasing.

In the market for fun pool accessories in addition to maintenance essentials? Check out our stories on the best pool ladders, pool floats, and pool toys. Plus, learn how to DIY a stock tank pool.

The most important thing to determine when choosing a pool filter, is whether or not it’s going to be able to effectively work with your pool size. Luckily, this is fairly easy to calculate. Its GPM (gallons per minute) flow rate will let you know approximately how large of a pool it can handle. According to Hayward’s website, you’ll want your filter to be able to turnover the pool’s volume every 8 or 10 hours. So, if the filter has a flow rate of 120 GPM then you can multiply that by 60 to get the gallons per hour, then multiply that by 8 to 10 hours, and see that it will work with a pool between 57,600 and 72,000 gallons. We’d recommend erring on the larger side, and going with a filter that doesn’t totally max out at your pool's capacity. Plus, a larger filter will need to be cleaned less frequently, saving you time and effort.

Next, think about what type of filter you prefer. The three types of pool filters are cartridge, sand, and DE (Diatomaceous Earth). Cartridge filters use removable cartridges to trap and collect debris as it passes through, can be sprayed clean with a hose, and use less water overall compared to DE and sand filters. Sand filters run water through a reservoir of sand to trap and contain dirt and debris, and although they’re usually the least expensive, aren’t able to trap the ultra-small particles that cartridge and DE filters can. DE filters work in the same way as sand filters, but since DE is finer than sand—more of a powder—it can trap the smallest particles of all. These are usually the most expensive, but if you want to make sure your pool water is as clean as possible, they’re worth the investment.

We evaluated the filters in this collection based on comprehensive online research and comparisons. This included researching the options on well-respected review sites, analyzing customer reviews, and combing through popular brands to find their most popular products. We also did our best to include a thorough variety of filter types and sizes, so regardless of your pool size or filter needs, you’ll be able to find the ideal option for your setup. We also made sure to maintain a variety in pricing as well, making our list as useful as possible for any budget range.

If you have a smaller above ground pool, the low price and compact size of this Intex pump could be the perfect fit. It’s simple to maintain, too—you’ll just need to replace the filter every couple of weeks.

The built-in timer makes it easy to set automatic 2-, 4-, 6-, 8- or 10-hour increments, and a convenient air release valve allows you to get rid of any trapped air inside. The included hoses are 1.25 inches, so keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase a separate adapter if you have 1.5-inch connections.

If you’re looking for an easy-to-maintain filter for your in-ground pool, the Hayward W3C12002 SwimClear is one of the top choices. This side-mount cartridge filter can be used in pools up to 18,000 gallons.

The filter uses heavy-duty cartridges that are able to hold more dirt and deliver extra-long filter cycles, and this design eliminates the need for backwashing, helping to streamline pool maintenance. The filter has a single-piece flange clamp that holds its top and bottom together, but it’s easy to remove when you need to change the inner cartridges.

This sand-based filter boasts a flow rate high enough for most in-ground pools, and with a corrosion-proof tank, is designed for maximum durability. A six-position control valve allows you to select the precise function you want, and the top-mounted lever-action handle is comfortable for anyone to use.

We’re also big fans of the large drain outlet, ensuring that when it’s time for winterizing or servicing, you won’t waste any time emptying it out. You will need to supply your own sand though, so keep that in mind.

This Intex sand filter is powerful enough to handle pools up to 12800 gallons, while still remaining relatively low on the price spectrum. Its six functions—filter, backwash, rinse, recirculate, drain, and close system—are easily selected with the large control handle, and a color-coded gauge makes it easy to keep an eye on the current pressure.

An automatic timer powers the pump on and off each day, and you can set the operating interval you prefer—up to 12 hours. Its low weight of 22.8 pounds also makes it relatively easy to transport and position into place.

It’s not cheap, but if you want to ensure that your in-ground pool is as clean and clear as it can possibly be, this diatomaceous earth filter from Hayward is a great choice. Its copolymer construction is durable enough to stand up the elements, and the straightforward clamp assembly makes it easy to gain access when it’s time for maintenance. Plus, the low-profile shape and a pair of lift handles allow you to gain access easily.

The convenient pressure gauge not only tells you the current pressure, but also lets you know when it's time to backwash and clean the filter.

For those with small pools, the Bestway Flow Clear Pool Filter is an extremely affordable option to keep the water clean. It’s designed to be used with above-ground pools between 300 and 8,400 gallons—generally up to 18 feet in diameter—and it has a flow rate of 1,500 gallons per hour.

Dirt and debris is captured in the cartridge as water passes through the filter, and it’s then pushed back into the pool by the double insulated 110- to 120-volt AC motor pump. The simple design comes with two connection hoses, clamps, and a filter cartridge, and while it requires little maintenance, keep in mind that you’ll need to clean or change the cartridge every two weeks.

DE filters aren’t just for large-capacity pools, and this Hayward model is a perfect choice for those with smaller, above-ground pools. Plus, it’s significantly cheaper than other DE options. It also works quickly, and can remove particles as small as two microns in size.

An oversized, ergonomic handle makes it easy to maintain and service, and the efficient design means that there’s no backwashing needed. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to supply the 5 pounds of Diatomaceous earth to get started.

The Rx Clear Radiant Sand Filter will keep water clean and fresh in in-ground pools up to 33,000 gallons. It has an extremely high flow rate of up to 3,000 gallons per hour, and it filters out sediment and debris using 300 pounds of silica sand.

Alternatively, you can use luster media in this filter, which requires less backwashing and decreases the chances of clogs. This filter has a six-way valve, pressure gauge, and drain plug, and it comes with 1.5-inch threaded connections and a compatible filter base.

The tank itself is one solid blow-molded piece, and it’s backed by a three-year warranty from the brand. The drawback is that the connection hoses aren't included.

The Hydrotools by Swimline Sand Filter, which is designed for above-ground pools, includes a 0.43 HP pump, making it a great all-in-one option for those who need a whole new system. It has a high-capacity tank that uses 60 pounds of sand to filter out dirt and debris, and it can be used with pools up to 10,500 gallons thanks to its flow rate of 2,400 gallons per hour.

The filter has an extra-large strainer basket that will capture large debris, and the system comes with a four-way valve, pressure gauge, and drain valve. The pump is designed to keep noise to a minimum during operation, and the system even includes two filter connection hoses.

Side-mount pool filters are often easier to service than top-mount options, and the Hayward W3S200 is a top choice for large in-ground pools. It can be used with pools up to 30,000 gallons, and it has a flow rate of 2,640 gallons per hour.

This filter uses 200 pounds of sand to clean the water in your pool, and it features a top diffuser and self-cleaning laterals for optimal performance. Your purchase includes a six-position VariFlo control valve and filter base, and the threaded inspection cover provides easy access to the tank’s interior.