Top Cartridge Pool Filters Review
Cartridge pool filters are a popular choice among pool owners for their ease of maintenance, superior filtration, and eco-friendly operation. Unlike sand or DE filters, cartridge filters don’t require backwashing, which saves both water and chemicals. With models available for every pool size—from compact above-ground systems to high-capacity in-ground filters—there’s a perfect match for every setup.
In this review, we compare the top cartridge pool filter brands, including Hayward, Pentair, Jandy, Intex, Waterway, Sta-Rite, and Jacuzzi. We highlight their best-selling models, pros and cons, replacement cartridge options, and ideal pool sizes. Whether you’re upgrading your existing filter or setting up a new pool, this guide will help you make an informed choice.
1. Hayward SwimClear Series
Top Models:
- Hayward SwimClear C100S
- Hayward SwimClear C150S
- Hayward SwimClear C3030
Pros: High flow efficiency, easy cartridge removal, rugged build, no backwash required.
Cons: Premium pricing; cartridges can be costly to replace.
Replacement Cartridges: Available from Hayward OEM and reliable third-party brands such as Unicel, Filbur, and Pleatco.
Pool Size Suitability: C100S suits small pools up to 10,000 gallons; C150S for medium pools up to 20,000 gallons; C3030 for large pools up to 45,000 gallons.
View on AmazonPlease Click Here for Replacement Cartridges for Hayward Swimclear Cartridge Pool Filters
2. Pentair Clean & Clear Plus Series
Top Models:
- Pentair Clean & Clear Plus 320
- Pentair Clean & Clear Plus 420
- Pentair Clean & Clear Plus 520
Pros: Four-cartridge design offers excellent filtration; easy cleaning; durable tank materials.
Cons: Larger footprint; higher initial cost.
Replacement Cartridges: OEM Pentair cartridges widely available. Pleatco (now a Pentair company) also manufactures compatible premium replacement filters, along with Unicel and Filbur equivalents.
Pool Size Suitability: Suitable for pools from 15,000 to 50,000 gallons, depending on model.
View on AmazonPlease Click Here for Replacement Filter Cartridges for Pentair Pool Pumps
3. Jandy CL & CV Cartridge Filters
Top Models:
- Jandy CL340
- Jandy CV460
- Jandy CL580
Pros: Sturdy construction; user-friendly clamp design; good water clarity performance.
Cons: Cartridge removal can be slightly more complex than Hayward’s design.
Replacement Cartridges: OEM and third-party cartridges available from Unicel, Filbur, and Pleatco.
Pool Size Suitability: CL340 for medium pools; CV460 for large pools up to 35,000 gallons; CL580 for extra-large pools up to 50,000 gallons.
View on AmazonPlease Click Here for Replacement Filter Cartridges for Jandy Pool Pumps
4. Intex Cartridge Filters (Above-Ground Pools)
Top Models:
- Intex Krystal Clear 1000 GPH
- Intex Krystal Clear 1500 GPH
- Intex Krystal Clear 2500 GPH
Pros: Affordable; easy setup; ideal for small to medium above-ground pools.
Cons: Shorter cartridge life; lower flow rate than professional-grade filters.
Replacement Cartridges: OEM Intex Type A/B cartridges; compatible third-party filters available from Unicel and Filbur.
Pool Size Suitability: Designed for pools ranging from 2,000 to 15,000 gallons.
View on AmazonPlease Click Here for Replacement Filter Cartridges for Intex Pool Pumps
5. Waterway Crystal Water Cartridge Filters
Top Models:
- Waterway Crystal Water 325
- Waterway Crystal Water 425
- Waterway Crystal Water 525
Pros: NSF-certified; high flow rate; ideal for heavy-duty use.
Cons: Higher price point; less common than Hayward or Pentair.
Replacement Cartridges: OEM and third-party compatible options from Pleatco, Unicel, and Filbur.
Pool Size Suitability: Suitable for large pools up to 45,000 gallons.
View on AmazonPlease Click Here for Replacement Filter Cartridges for Waterway Pool Pumps
6. Sta-Rite System 3 Cartridge Filters
Top Models:
- Sta-Rite System 3 S7M120
- Sta-Rite System 3 S7M400
- Sta-Rite System 3 S8M500
Pros: Large surface area; minimal maintenance; long cartridge life.
Cons: Bulky; expensive cartridges.
Replacement Cartridges: OEM and third-party equivalents from Pleatco, Unicel, and Filbur.
Pool Size Suitability: Ideal for medium to very large in-ground pools up to 60,000 gallons.
View on AmazonPlease Click Here for Replacement Filter Media, Grids and Cartridges for Sta-Rite Pool Pumps
7. Jacuzzi Cartridge Filters
Top Models:
- Jacuzzi CFR 100
- Jacuzzi CFR 200
- Jacuzzi JCF 425
Pros: Easy installation; efficient cleaning cycles; compact footprint.
Cons: Limited availability in some regions.
Replacement Cartridges: OEM and aftermarket replacements available from Unicel and Pleatco.
Pool Size Suitability: Suitable for small to large pools up to 40,000 gallons.
View on AmazonPlease Click Here for Replacement Filter Cartridges for Jacuzzi Pool Pumps
Summary Table
| Brand | Top Models | Ideal Pool Size | Replacement Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hayward | C100S, C150S, C3030 | Small–Large | OEM, Unicel, Filbur, Pleatco |
| Pentair | 320, 420, 520 | Medium–Large | OEM, Unicel, Filbur, Pleatco (Pentair-owned) |
| Jandy | CL340, CV460, CL580 | Medium–Large | OEM, Unicel, Filbur, Pleatco |
| Intex | 1000, 1500, 2500 GPH | Small–Medium | OEM, Unicel, Filbur |
| Waterway | 325, 425, 525 | Large | OEM, Unicel, Filbur, Pleatco |
| Sta-Rite | S7M120, S7M400, S8M500 | Medium–Very Large | OEM, Unicel, Filbur, Pleatco |
| Jacuzzi | CFR 100, CFR 200, JCF 425 | Small–Large | OEM, Unicel, Pleatco |
Conclusion
Cartridge pool filters deliver superior water clarity, energy efficiency, and low maintenance compared to sand or DE systems. Hayward, Pentair, and Jandy lead the market with reliable, high-performance designs suited for different pool sizes and budgets. Reliable third-party replacement cartridges from Unicel, Filbur, and Pleatco (now part of Pentair) ensure long-term affordability and ease of maintenance. Whether for a backyard pool or a large in-ground setup, choosing the right cartridge filter ensures clean, crystal-clear water all season long.
Which Pool Filter Is Right for Me?
Not sure which cartridge pool filter is the best fit for your setup? Use this quick interactive guide to find the ideal model based on your pool type, pool size, and maintenance preference. Each recommendation includes a direct Amazon link so you can check pricing and reviews instantly.