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 $1,458.99The Pentair FNS Plus 60 rates 3.9 among D.E. pool filters; the Hayward StarClear Plus C12002 rates 3.1 among cartridge ones. The Hayward StarClear Plus C12002 costs $579.99 less ($879 vs $1,458.99).

A low-cost single-cartridge filter for a small in-ground pool. Choose a larger cartridge if you want fewer cleanings.
Amazon $879Prices 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.
Scores side by side
These two sit in different type classes (D.E. and cartridge), and each is scored against the reference points for its own class, so a rating says how well each does among its own type peers. How we rank explains each factor.
| Factor weight | Pentair FNS Plus 60 | Hayward StarClear Plus C12002 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.9/5 | 3.1/5 |
| Value 35% | 75 $12.16 per gpm ($1,458.99, 120 gpm) | 72 $7.33 per gpm ($879, 120 gpm) |
| Filter area 30% | 77 60 sq ft of filter area | 5 120 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 | 50 pressure rating not published (neutral score used) |
| Warranty 15% | 33 1-year warranty | 33 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Pentair FNS Plus 60 | Hayward StarClear Plus C12002 | |
|---|---|---|
| Filtering | ||
| Filter type | D.E. | Cartridge |
| Filter area | 60 sq ft | 120 sq ft |
| Maximum flow | 120 gpm | 120 gpm |
| Largest pool | 57,600 gal | - |
| Pool type | In-ground | In-ground |
| Build | ||
| Tank diameter | 21.5 in | - |
| Valve | - | None needed |
| Maximum pressure | 50 psi | - |
| Ports | - | 2 in |
| Air relief | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |