Pentair FNS Plus 60
#2 in D.E.Full review
A grid D.E. filter for an in-ground pool of up to about 57,600 gallons, for owners who want the clearest water and will handle D.E.
Amazon $1,458.99$1,458.99
The Pentair FNS Plus 60 is the better pool filter overall, rated 3.9 to 3.2. The Pentair FNS Plus 60 leads on filter area and value. The Hayward Perflex EC50AC costs $729.99 less ($729 vs $1,458.99).
Hayward Perflex EC50AC
#7 in D.E.Full review
An extended-cycle D.E. filter for an above-ground or small in-ground pool, for owners who want D.E. clarity without a backwash valve.
Amazon $729$729
Prices were last checked November 2, 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 Pentair FNS Plus 60 for filter area (60 sq ft of filter area vs 25 sq ft of filter area) and value ($12.16 per gpm ($1,458.99, 120 gpm) vs $14.58 per gpm ($729, 50 gpm)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every D.E. pool filter; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Pentair FNS Plus 60 | Hayward Perflex EC50AC |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.9/5 | 3.2/5 |
| Value 35% | 75 $12.16 per gpm ($1,458.99, 120 gpm) | 60 $14.58 per gpm ($729, 50 gpm) |
| Filter area 30% | 77 60 sq ft of filter area | 10 25 sq ft of filter area |
| Valve 10% | 50 valve type not published (neutral score used) | 100 no backwash valve needed |
| Pressure rating 10% | 100 50 psi maximum working pressure | 100 50 psi maximum working pressure |
| Warranty 15% | 33 1-year warranty | 33 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Pentair FNS Plus 60 | Hayward Perflex EC50AC | |
|---|---|---|
| Filtering | ||
| Filter type | D.E. | D.E. |
| Filter area | 60 sq ft | 25 sq ft |
| Maximum flow | 120 gpm | 50 gpm |
| Largest pool | 57,600 gal | 24,000 gal |
| Pool type | In-ground | In-ground or above-ground |
| Build | ||
| Tank diameter | 21.5 in | - |
| Valve | - | None needed |
| Maximum pressure | 50 psi | 50 psi |
| Ports | - | 1.5 in |
| Air relief | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |