Here’s an overview of the Best Pool Filter that we’ll explore today:
Pool filtration is the backbone of clear, healthy swimming water. The right cartridge filter balances filtration efficiency, maintenance, and ongoing cost, while fitting your pool size and pump flow. This comparison evaluates five cartridge filter solutions across a price spectrum from budget to premium, representing both independent brands and major players. My testing approach combines dimensional compatibility checks, filtration material technology assessment, ease of cleaning, and practical performance indicators such as dirt capture, backwashing limitations, and overall lifecycle cost. The products covered include Intex’s budget-friendly Type A two-pack, POOLPURE’s high-capacity and mid-capacity pleated cartridges, and Cryspool and Swimline options that target larger pools and more rugged use.
1. POOLPURE PLF120A Pool Filter Replaces Hayward C1200
- Brand: POOLPURE
- Manufacturer: POOLPURE
POOLPURE’s PLF120A is a 120 sq.ft compatible cartridge designed to replace multiple legacy models. It uses Trilobal Filtration Fabric with a 50-micron high-efficiency layer and Dirt-Locking Technology. The long 23 1/4″ length and 8 15/16″ outer diameter place it in the upper mid-range for standard above-ground and in-ground compatible systems, with a claim of over 30% longer life than conventional cartridges. It’s NSF/ANSI 50 certified for safety and emphasizes easy rinsing thanks to its dirt-locking structure.
In real-world use, the PLF120A delivers strong particle removal for hair, leaves, dust, and sand, while its 4 oz thickened polyester fabric and reinforced end caps suggest durability under frequent cleanings. The notable caveat is its not-backwash design; backwashing is not recommended, so it’s best suited for non-backwashing systems or those where rinse-clean maintenance is feasible without risking structural damage. The fit is compatible with Hayward C1200 lineage and similar 105–125 sq.ft class units, but users should verify end-cap and port dimensions for their specific pump housing.
Pros
- 50-micron filtration with tripled adsorption surface from trilobal fabric
- Dirt-Locking Technology simplifies rinsing and reduces maintenance time
- NSF/ANSI 50 certified for material safety
- Reported durability: 4 oz fabric with reinforced end caps
- Broad compatibility with many 120 sq.ft class models
Cons
- Not suitable for backwashing systems; limited compatibility with some pressure-driven backwash setups
- Only 23 1/4″ length may not fit deeper housings
- The unit weight and dimensions require verification against local storage space
2. POOLPURE PCC105-PAK4 Replaces Pentair CCP420
- Brand: POOLPURE
- Manufacturer: POOLPURE
POOLPURE’s PCC105A Pak4 targets higher-capacity needs with a 105 sq.ft. surface area profile and a longer 26″ length, intended to replace popular 420-style cartridges. The Trilobal Filtration Fabric and 50-micron layer remain core features, along with Dirt-Locking Technology. This cartridge is positioned as a straightforward upgrade path for larger residential pools or commercial setups that require more surface area and less frequent changes. It shares the same NSF/ANSI 50 safety assurances as the 120A line.
In practice, the 26″ length provides deeper filtration contact and better flow retention at higher pump speeds, which can translate to improved clarity during peak usage. The 3″ top and bottom openings simplify installation with adapters designed for CCP420-compatible housings. A potential drawback for some buyers is the higher price point per 105 sq.ft versus the 120 sq.ft alternative; while you gain more surface area, the incremental performance per dollar depends on your pool size and turnover rate.
Pros
- Large 105 sq.ft surface area with 26″ length for higher throughput
- Compatible with a broad set of CCP420/420-family models
- 50-micron filtration with trilobal fabric and dirt-locking
- NSF/ANSI 50 certified for safety
- Good balance of performance and replacement interval for mid-to-large pools
Cons
- Premium price relative to 105 sq.ft options
- Not ideal for small, low-flow systems
- Longer cartridge may require more storage space
3. Intex 29002E Type A Pool Filter Cartridge Filter Pumps – Easy-to-Clean – Dacron Paper – Efficient Filtration – Two Pack
- Brand: Intex
- Manufacturer: Intex
Intex’s 29002E Type A is a budget-friendly two-pack designed for Intex Krystal Clear pumps and compatible models like 28603EG, 28637EG, and 28635EG. It emphasizes easy-to-clean Dacron paper construction aimed at above-ground pools, with HydroAERATION Technology touted to improve circulation and clarity during operation. The Type A sizing keeps it compact for smaller setups with relatively simple replacement routines.
Performance-wise, these cartridges deliver solid daily filtration for domestic, small-to-medium above-ground pools. The practical trade-off is the absence of advanced filtration materials and the lower density of filtration media compared to pleated or trilobal designs. The value proposition is compelling for budget-conscious buyers who need reliable, frequent replacements without the complexity of larger, multi-year filter systems.
Pros
- Very affordable price for two-pack
- Compatible with common Intex filter pumps and HydroAeration technology
- Easy-to-clean construction suitable for routine maintenance
- Compact dimensions fit smaller pools
Cons
- Simpler filtration media compared to trilobal/pleated designs
- Not ideal for large or heavily used pools
- Limited compatibility outside Intex ecosystem
4. HYDROTOOLS Cartridge Pool Filter Tanks
- Brand: Swimline
- Manufacturer: Swimline
Swimline’s Hydrotools Extra-Flo cartridge system presents a complete tank and element solution with a 40 sq.ft filtration area, designed for larger pools up to ~21,000 gallons. It ships as a cartridge filter tank and elements kit (no pump included) and includes a pressure gauge and bleed valve for maintenance awareness. This option targets users seeking a robust, standalone filtration housing capable of longer service cycles with less frequent element changes.
In practice, the tank-based approach reduces the number of cartridge replacements over time due to larger filtration volume. The quad-cell technology helps distribute dirt more evenly, and the included pressure gauge assists in proactive maintenance. However, the package excludes a pump base and connection accessories, so it’s best for buyers prepared to assemble a complete system. Weight considerations and larger footprint are factors for smaller backyards.
Pros
- Oversized 40 sq.ft filtration area and quad-cell distribution
- Integrated pressure gauge and bleed valve for maintenance
- Rugged, UV-resistant thermoplastic construction
- Good fit for larger residential pools needing higher flow
Cons
- Cartridge filter tank only; pump base and fittings sold separately
- Bulky dimensions require more installation space
- Higher upfront cost when paired with a pump and base kit
5. Cryspool® 07077 Filter Compatible with CCP420
- Brand: Cryspool
- Manufacturer: Cryspool
Cryspool’s 07077 Pack4 offers four 26-1/16″ x 7″ cartridges with a total surface area of 420 sq.ft, designed to replace multiple CCP420-compatible models. The trilobal fiber construction emphasizes deep filtration and resilience during regular cleaning, with a focus on easy rinse cycles to refresh cartridges. The four-pack approach provides bulk value and reduces the frequency of replacements for mid-to-large pool setups.
In use, Cryspool emphasizes durability through advanced material and end caps, enabling straightforward cleaning to refresh the filter after pressure gauge triggers. The fit aligns with 26″ length and 7″ OD housings and covers the CCP420/C-7471/178584 family. The main caveat is the price point relative to other 4-pack options, and potential variation in replacement part nomenclature across different pool brands that can complicate cross-compatibility checks.
Pros
- Four-pack offering for bulk value
- High compatibility with CCP420 and related models
- Trilobal fabric supports strong dirt capture and cleaning durability
- Durable end caps and core construction
Cons
- Premium price compared to single-pack options
- Cross-brand compatibility may vary and require verification
- Requires appropriate housing size (26″ L, 7″ OD) to fit
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about pool filters to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Final thoughts: If you prioritize cost-per-square-foot of filtration and broad compatibility, POOLPURE options (PLF120A and PCC105-PAK4) offer compelling performance with durable trilobal fabric and a range of capacities.
For budget-conscious buyers, Intex’s Type A cartridges deliver reliable, straightforward filtration with excellent value in a two-pack. For users who want a tank-based solution with higher throughput in larger pools, Swimline’s Hydrotools option provides a robust platform, albeit with additional installation considerations.
Cryspool’s four-pack offers a strong all-around replacement set for CCP420-compatible systems with strong filtration media. Ultimately, pick based on pool size, turnover rate, and whether you prefer cartridge-only or tank-plus-cartridge configurations..