Aquastrong 2 HP Dual Speed
#7 in Above-GroundFull review
A budget two-speed pump for above-ground pools, for buyers who want a timer and two speeds for the lowest price rather than top efficiency.
Amazon $238.40$238.40
The Aquastrong 2 HP Dual Speed is the better pool pump overall, rated 2.7 to 2.3. The Aquastrong 2 HP Dual Speed leads on value and controls. The Aquastrong 2 HP Dual Speed costs $390.60 less ($238.40 vs $629).
Hayward PowerFlo Matrix 2-Speed
#9 in Above-GroundFull review
A simple two-speed upgrade for above-ground pools from a major brand, best for owners who want a familiar pump and will switch speeds themselves.
Amazon $629$629
Prices were last checked October 27, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Aquastrong 2 HP Dual Speed for value ($238 for 0.8 HP ($318 per HP) vs $629 for 1 HP ($629 per HP)) and controls (Built-in schedule vs No schedule, wi-fi or automation link).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every above-ground pool pump; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Aquastrong 2 HP Dual Speed | Hayward PowerFlo Matrix 2-Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 2.7/5 | 2.3/5 |
| Efficiency 35% | 0 WEF 4.9, 2% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 5 WEF 5.7, 28% above the ENERGY STAR minimum for its size |
| Value 25% | 86 $238 for 0.8 HP ($318 per HP) | 46 $629 for 1 HP ($629 per HP) |
| Warranty 15% | 25 2-year warranty | 25 2-year warranty |
| Controls 15% | 30 Built-in schedule | 0 No schedule, wi-fi or automation link |
| Noise 10% | 50 noise not published (neutral score used) | 50 noise not published (neutral score used) |
Specifications
| Aquastrong 2 HP Dual Speed | Hayward PowerFlo Matrix 2-Speed | |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency ratings | ||
| Pump type | Above-ground (non-self-priming) | Above-ground (non-self-priming) |
| Motor | Two speed | Two speed |
| Rated horsepower (DOE) | 0.8 HP | 1 HP |
| Hydraulic horsepower (DOE) | 0.4 HP | 0.5 HP |
| Weighted energy factor (WEF) | 4.9 kgal/kWh | 5.7 kgal/kWh |
| ENERGY STAR minimum for its size | 4.8 kgal/kWh | 4.5 kgal/kWh |
| ENERGY STAR certified | No | No |
| Pump | ||
| Voltage | 115 V | 115 V |
| Pipe size | 1.5 in | 1.5 in |
| Controls | ||
| Built-in schedule | Yes | No |
| Freeze protection | - | No |
| Wi-Fi | No | No |
| Warranty and models | ||
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
| Warranty terms | 2-year warranty (Amazon listing). | Hayward 2026 Expert Line above-ground terms: 2 years parts (3 years extended), no labor. The W3 (Open Line) version sold online gets 1 year parts only. |