Intex
Intex 2,100 GPH Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump
Best small / soft-side (complete) — The cheapest real sand filter that works because the pump is built in — a complete 2,100 GPH (1,600 GPH system) all-in-one that filters an above-ground pool up to 12,800 gallons, and it runs recycled glass media if you want longer life.
Specs
| Type | Complete system (pump + tank) |
| Pump flow | 2,100 GPH |
| Rated pool | Up to 12,800 gal |
| Sand | 50 lb |
| Glass media | Yes (35 lb) |
| Owner rating | 4.5★ / 7,141 |
Pros
- Complete: integrated pump, so nothing else to buy but sand
- 1,600 GPH system flow handles a pool up to 12,800 gal
- Runs recycled glass media (35 lb) for longer, finer filtration
- 6-function valve + 24-hour timer; huge proven owner base
Cons
- Sand not included
- 0.3 HP integrated pump is right-sized for up to ~12,800 gal, no more — a bigger pool wants the SX3000 or a 1 HP system
- Not the tank-and-pump longevity of a Hayward or Rx Clear system
“This sand filter is spectacular!! We have extremely hard well water with a lot of iron in it. This is the second year I used this sand filter.”— C Dorn, Amazon · Verified owner
✓ Safety: no active recall — No active CPSC recall found (checked July 2026)
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Data last verified: July 2026. Ratings are real, dated reads — never scraped or invented. Full methodology and monetization disclosure: how we test.