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The Best Pool Filter Cartridges

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Maintaining a clean and healthy aquarium is crucial for the well-being of your aquatic pets. The filter cartridge plays a vital role in this process, removing debris and harmful toxins. Selecting the right cartridge ensures optimal water quality and a thriving environment for your fish.

Looking for the best Pool Filter Cartridges?

Discover now our comparison of the best Pool Filter Cartridges. It is never easy to choose from the wide range of offers. On the market, you will find an incalculable number of models, all at different prices. And as you will discover, the best Pool Filter Cartridges are not always the ones at the highest prices! Many criteria are used, and they make the richness and relevance of this comparison.
To help you make the best choice among the hundreds of products available, we have decided to offer you a comparison of the Pool Filter Cartridges in order to find the best quality/price ratio. In this ranking, you will find products listed according to their price, but also their characteristics and the opinions of other customers. Also discover our comparisons by categories. You won’t have to choose your products at random anymore.

SaleNo. 1
INTEX 29003E Type A Pool Filter Cartridge: For INTEX Filter Pumps – Easy-To-Clean – Dacron Paper...
  • ✔ CONVENIENT MAINTENANCE – A must have cartridge to the INTEX Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump, this filter cartridge is made with easy-to-clean Dacron paper for the ultimate filtration
  • ✔ FILTER PUMP COMPATIBILITY – For best use and results, the filter cartridge A by INTEX is compatible for filter pump models in of the following: 28603EG, 28637EG and 28635EG
  • ✔ ROUTINE USAGE – For maximum efficiency and results for your above ground pool, the recommendation is to replace cartridges every two weeks for a clean and happy pool
  • ✔ HYDROAERATION TECHNOLOGY – It's all in the bubbles; patented HydroAeration Technology by INTEX when using our filtration systems improves overall water circulation, clarity, and freshness in thousands of above ground pools
  • ✔ SAFETY, QUALITY and VALUE – Intex designs, builds, and tests all its products to the highest standards with safety the first order of business; our affordable and innovative products are built to last
  • ✔  CUSTOMER SATISFACTION – Our dedicated customer service team is available via phone, chat, or email to help with any questions you may have on use, installation, or service needs
SaleNo. 2
POOLPURE PCC105-PAK4 Replaces Pentair CCP420, 178584, Ultral-A6, Unicel C-7471, 817-0106, R173576, Filbur...
  • 🍀Specifications: Length: 26"; Outside Diameter: 7"; Top Opening: 3"; Bottom Opening: 3"; Material Area: 105 Sq.ft; Filter Material: Trilobal Filtration Fabric.
  • 🍀Compatible Models: PLF105A Pool Filter compatible Pentair CCP420, 160301, Waterway Crystal Water 425, 570-0425, SD-00163, AK-60431, Aladdin 20503, Filbur FC-6470. ★NOTE: This is a compatible spare part and the manufacturers' names and part numbers...
  • 🍀 NSF/ANSI 50 Certified Safety: PoolPure pool and spa filters are tested and certified by IAPMO against NSF/ANSI 50 standards for material safety. All components are proven safe for long-term water exposure, ensuring no harmful substances are released...
  • 🍀PHTA Member – Industry-Trusted Performance: As a proud member of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, PoolPure follows industry-recognized filtration standards to deliver superior performance, longer lifespan, and consistently crystal-clear water.
  • 🍀Proven by Athletes & Media Tested in real training environments and featuring Olympic swimmer Rhyan White, our filters deliver reliable performance where it matters most—while recognition from NBC Local highlights our commitment to consistent...
  • 🍀Trilobal Filtration Fabric Design: The innovative trilobal fiber structure provides three times the adsorption surface area compared to conventional filter fabrics. It captures more dirt and sediment while maintaining consistent water clarity, even...
  • 🍀Patented Dirt-Locking Technology: Our exclusive dirt-locking structure efficiently captures debris and makes cleaning effortless. During rinsing, trapped dirt is released easily and thoroughly. The filter is simple to rinse, reusable, and...
  • 🍀50-Micron Fine Filtration: Upgraded with a 50-micron high-efficiency filtration layer, it effectively removes up to 99% of fine particles such as hair, leaves, dust, and sand. It keeps pool water sparkling clear for longer, reducing the need for...
  • 🍀Durable Heavy-Duty Construction: Made with 4 oz. thickened polyester filter fabric, reinforced ABS end caps, and a strengthened integrated core, this filter lasts over 30% longer than standard cartridges. It reduces replacement frequency and long-term...
  • ⚠️ Not for Backwashing – This filter cartridge is not designed for backwashing. Backwashing may cause cracks or permanent damage.
No. 3
Intex 29002E Type A Pool Filter Cartridge Filter Pumps – Easy-to-Clean – Dacron Paper – Efficient...
  • CONVENIENT MAINTENANCE – A must have cartridge to the INTEX Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump, this filter cartridge is made with easy-to-clean Dacron paper for the ultimate filtration
  • FILTER PUMP COMPATIBILITY – For best use and results, the filter cartridge A by INTEX is compatible for filter pump models in of the following: 28603EG, 28637EG and 28635EG
  • ROUTINE USAGE – For maximum efficiency and results for your above ground pool, the recommendation is to replace cartridges every two weeks for a clean and happy pool
  • HYDROAERATION TECHNOLOGY – It's all in the bubbles; patented HydroAeration Technology by INTEX when using our filtration systems improves overall water circulation, clarity, and freshness in thousands of above ground pools
  • SAFETY, QUALITY and VALUE – Intex designs, builds, and tests all its products to the highest standards with safety the first order of business; our affordable and innovative products are built to last
SaleNo. 4
Future Way CCP420 Pool Filter Cartridges Replacement for Pentair Clean & Clear Plus 420, Replace Pentair...
  • Perfect Match: Compatible with Pentair Clean & Clear Plus 420/160301/178584 pool filter. Replace Pentair R173576, Pleatco PCC105/PCC105-PAK4, Waterway Crystal Water 425, Unicel C-7471/C-7471-4, Filbur FC-1977, Pure N Clean PC-1977/PC-1977P/PC-6470 and...
  • NSF/ANSI 50 Certified: Tested and certified by NSF International against NSF/ANSI 50 for the use of safe materials. The trilobal pleated design captures 3x more debris than regular fabric, efficiently trapping leaves, hair, sand, and oils for cleaner...
  • Easy Maintenance: Trilobal structure repels large particles from entering the inside of CCP420 filter, ensuring they are spread out and preventing stains from building up in any one area. This design allows for easy and thorough rinsing
  • Extremely Enduring: CCP420 pool filter cartridge features spunbond polyester and a strong inner core, making it capable of withstanding high-pressure water flow and enduring enough to be a worthwhile investment for your pool
  • Economical Pool Maintenance: Regularly cleaning and reusing the filter cartridge is a simple way to minimize water usage. We recommend cleaning the cartridge monthly to maximize its effectiveness and ensure a clean swimming experience
No. 5
Cryspool® 07077 Filter Compatible with CCP420, Clean and Clear Plus 420, PCC105-PAK4, R...
  • 【SIZE】Length: 26-1/16"; Outside Diameter: 7"; Top Opening: 3"; Bottom Opening: 3"; Material Area: 4×105 sq.ft.
  • 【COMPATIBLE MODELS】Compatible with Clean and Clear Plus 420, CCP420, C-7471, R173576,178584, PCC105-PAK4, FC-1977, 570-0425-07, Ultral-A6, 160301, 570-0425, 570-0425-07, SD-00163, AK-60431, Aladdin 20503, FC-6470.26"x7". Note: The manufacturer’s...
  • 【QUALIFIED MATERIAL】The advanced material of trilobal fibers is utilized. Cutting-edge technologies make the capacity higher than common point-bond fabric. It makes water process more thoroughly and service life longer.
  • 【EASY CLEANING】The Improved Trilobal Fabric Filter Structure enables the deep penetration of impurities into filter pleats when we wash it, the filter is a totally brand-new one after cleaning. It’s recommended to clean the filter when the pressure...
  • 【GOOD CHOICE FOR FILTERS】With our qualified material, end caps as well as pleats, the filters are easy to clean, strong to filter, sturdy to hold in position. If cleaned regularly more often, its service life can be largely enhanced, the water usage...
SaleNo. 6
Future Way C1200 Pool Filter Cartridge Replacement for Hayward Star Clear Plus C1200, Replace Pleatco PA...
  • Perfect Match: Compatible with Hayward Star Clear Plus C1200 pool filter. Replacement for Hayward CX1200RE, Pleatco PA120/PA120-4, Unicel C-8412, Filbur FC-1293, Waterway Pro Clean PCCF-125, 817-0125N, Clearwater II 125. All manufacturers' names and part...
  • NSF/ANSI 50 Certified: Tested and certified by NSF International against NSF/ANSI 50 for the use of safe materials. The trilobal pleated design captures 3x more debris than regular fabric, efficiently trapping leaves, hair, sand, and oils for cleaner...
  • Dimension: With an outer diameter of 8-15/16'', inner diameter of 4'' and a height of 23-1/4'', C1200 pool filter cartridge can be easily installed in your filter without worrying about leaks or compatibility issues
  • Extremely Enduring: C1200 pool filter cartridge features spunbond polyester and a strong inner core, making it capable of withstanding high-pressure water flow and enduring enough to be a worthwhile investment for your pool
  • Economical Pool Maintenance: Regularly cleaning and reusing the filter cartridge is a simple way to minimize water usage. We recommend cleaning the cartridge monthly to maximize its effectiveness and ensure a clean swimming experience
No. 7
Optimum Pool Technologies® Pool Filter 4-Pack, Compatible Replacement for Pentair® Clean & Clear Plus...
  • Made in USA with 100% Reemay filtration media that was made specifically for durability and cleanability. Includes support bands around each cartridge element
  • Compatible Replacement for Pentair CCP420 Cartridge Filter (PN 160301), Compatible Replacement for Waterway Crystal Water 105 SQFT (817-0106), 420SQFT Compatible Replacement for Jacuzzi J-CQ420 JCF425 Cartridge Filters (PN 42287, 570-0425-09LE)
  • Inside Diameter: 3", Outside Diameter: 7”, Length: 26-1/16”
  • Compatible Repalcement for Parts: OEM# 178584, R173576, R173476 Unicel# C-7471 / C7471, C-7471-4, C-7471RA, Pleatco# PCC-105 / PCC105, PCC105-PAK4, PCC105-M, PCC105-M-PAK4, Filbur# FC-6470, FC-1977 / FC1977, FC-1977M, FC-1977P, Aladdin# 20503, Misc...
  • NOTE: This is a compatible aftermarket replacement part made in the USA. The manufacturers' names and part numbers have been used for reference purposes only. Optimum Pool Technologies Inc is an independent brand.
SaleNo. 8
POOLPURE PLF120A Pool Filter Replaces Hayward C1200, CX1200RE, Pleatco PA120, Ultra-B2, Unicel C-8412, Filbur...
  • 🍀PHTA Member – Industry-Trusted Performance: As a proud member of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, PoolPure follows industry-recognized filtration standards to deliver superior performance, longer lifespan, and consistently crystal-clear water—so you...
  • 🍀Specifications: Length: Length: 23 1/4"; Outside Diameter: 8 15/16"; Top Bottom Opening: 4"; Bottom Opening: 4"; Material Area: 120 Sq.ft; Filter Material: Trilobal Filtration Fabric.
  • 🍀Compatible Models: PLF120A Pool Filter compatible Hayward Star Clear Plus C1200 / CX1200RE, Unicel C-8412, Porpoise PP-B2, Clearwater II ProClean 125, Aladdin 22002, Filbur FC-1293, AK-7005. ★NOTE: This is a compatible spare part and the...
  • 🍀 NSF/ANSI 50 Certified Safety: PoolPure pool and spa filters are tested and certified by IAPMO against NSF/ANSI 50 standards for material safety. All components are proven safe for long-term water exposure, ensuring no harmful substances are released...
  • 🍀Trilobal Filtration Fabric Design: The innovative trilobal fiber structure provides three times the adsorption surface area compared to conventional filter fabrics. It captures more dirt and sediment while maintaining consistent water clarity, even...
  • 🍀Patented Dirt-Locking Technology: Our exclusive dirt-locking structure efficiently captures debris and makes cleaning effortless. During rinsing, trapped dirt is released easily and thoroughly. The filter is simple to rinse, reusable, and...
  • 🍀50-Micron Fine Filtration: Upgraded with a 50-micron high-efficiency filtration layer, it effectively removes up to 99% of fine particles such as hair, leaves, dust, and sand. It keeps pool water sparkling clear for longer, reducing the need for...
  • 🍀Durable Heavy-Duty Construction: Made with 4 oz. thickened polyester filter fabric, reinforced ABS end caps, and a strengthened integrated core, this filter lasts over 30% longer than standard cartridges. It reduces replacement frequency and long-term...
  • ⚠️ Not for Backwashing – This filter cartridge is not designed for backwashing. Backwashing may cause cracks or permanent damage.
SaleNo. 9
Grefilt CCP420 Pool Filter Cartridges, Compatible with Pentair Clean & Clear Plus 420, Replaces Pentair...
  • COMPATIBLE WITH MAJOR MODELS: This filter is compatible with a range of brands and models for Pentair Clean & Clear Plus 420, Replaces Pentair R173576, Pleatco PCC105-PAK4, and more. Please note that this is a compatible replacement, and manufacturer...
  • SPECIFICATIONS: Length: 26"; Outside Diameter: 7"; Top & Bottom Opening: 3"; Filtration Area: 420 Sq.ft; Material: 5 oz Heavy-Duty Trilobal Filtration Fabric. Please verify your existing filter dimensions before purchase to ensure proper fit
  • NSF/ANSI 50 CERTIFIED SAFETY: Tested and certified against NSF/ANSI 50 standards to ensure safe materials for pool and spa use. Provides clean, clear, and safe water without releasing harmful substances, ideal for family pools
  • PRECISION 30-MICRON FILTRATION: Engineered with 30-micron precision filtration and an upgraded trilobal fiber structure with 40% more branches. The uniform fiber distribution increases particle capture efficiency while maintaining stable water flow...
  • EXTENDED LIFE: Built with thickened 5 oz fabric, high-strength ABS end caps, and an integrated support core. Enhances structural stability under pressure and extends service life by up to 30% compared to standard cartridges
No. 10
U.S. Pool Supply 4 Pack of Universal Replacement Filter Cartridges, Type A or C - Compatible with Above Ground...
  • Pack of 4 Premium Quality Universal Replacement Filter Cartridges that are compatible with all above-ground pools and pumps that use type A or C filters, as well as type III filters. Filter cartridges replace Intex 59900E and 29000E filter cartridges
  • The filters are made with premium quality polyethylene terephthalate fibers for advanced superior cleaning, as they provide crystal clear water filtration. Filters contain a durable hard plastic iner core that is collapse-resistant
  • For use in pool pumps that range from 530 gallons per hour to 2,000 gallons per hour. For best performance, replace the filter every two weeks. Filters are washable easy to replace and clean filter cartridges with long service lives
  • Filters are compatible with several brands of cartridge filter pumps. Intex models: 28603EG (603), 28637EG (637R), 28635EG (635T), 604/G, 636T/G, 638R/G. Bestway models: 58384(E), 58387, 58388E, 58389, 58390(E). Summer Waves models: RX1000, RX1500, RP...
  • Filter dimensions: 8" high x 4.25" diameter with a nearly 2" diameter center hole

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Last update on 2026-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to Choose the Best Pool Filter Cartridges

Understanding Your Filter Type

Before purchasing a replacement, identify the brand and model of your aquarium filter. Cartridges are often designed to be specific to certain filter units, and using an incompatible one can lead to poor filtration or even damage to the filter itself. Check the filter housing or the original filter packaging for model numbers or compatibility information.

Key Cartridge Features to Consider

Look at the materials used in the cartridge. Most cartridges combine mechanical filtration (sponges or pads to trap particles) with chemical filtration (activated carbon to absorb odors and discoloration). Some advanced cartridges may also include biological filtration media, which houses beneficial bacteria to break down waste. Consider the size and density of the filtration media, as this can affect flow rate and filtration efficiency.

Replacement Frequency and Maintenance

Filter cartridges do not last forever and require regular replacement to maintain effective filtration. The frequency depends on the size of your aquarium, the number of fish, and the type of cartridge. As a general guideline, cartridges should be replaced every 2-4 weeks. Rinse used cartridges in removed tank water, never tap water, to preserve beneficial bacteria colonies before discarding the old one and installing a new one.

Brand and Compatibility

While generic cartridges are available, sticking with the brand recommended by your filter manufacturer often guarantees the best fit and performance. However, many reputable third-party brands offer compatible cartridges that can be a more budget-friendly option. Always verify compatibility with your specific filter model before purchasing, checking product descriptions and reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my aquarium filter cartridge?
Replacement frequency varies, but a general guideline is every 2 to 4 weeks. Factors like aquarium size and stocking level can influence this. Over time, cartridges become clogged and less effective at cleaning the water.
Can I clean and reuse a filter cartridge?
You can rinse a cartridge in old tank water (never tap water) to remove debris and prolong its life slightly. However, the filter media, especially activated carbon, becomes exhausted and needs replacement. Rinsing helps preserve beneficial bacteria until you install a new cartridge.
What is activated carbon in a filter cartridge?
Activated carbon is a porous material used for chemical filtration. It effectively adsorbs impurities, odors, and discoloration from the aquarium water. It needs to be replaced regularly as its adsorptive capacity is finite.
How do I know which cartridge fits my filter?
The best way is to check the filter's manual or the original cartridge for the brand and model number. Many filter manufacturers offer specific replacement cartridges for their units, and third-party brands will list compatible filter models.
What's the difference between mechanical and biological filtration?
Mechanical filtration physically traps debris and particles from the water. Biological filtration involves beneficial bacteria that break down harmful ammonia and nitrite waste products. Many cartridges combine both functions.