For a deep basement or a pit that fills fast, where a strong cast iron pump that fits a narrow pit is worth paying for.
Amazon $323.25The Liberty Pumps 287 is the better sump pump overall, rated 2.9 to 2.4. The Liberty Pumps 287 leads on flow and build. The Liberty Pumps 457 costs $80.20 less ($243.05 vs $323.25).
For a narrow pit that needs more lift than a 1/3 HP pump, where a light pump with a magnetic float is preferred over cast iron.
Amazon $243.05Prices were last checked October 31, 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 Liberty Pumps 287 for flow (3,300 GPH at 10 ft vs 2,640 GPH at 10 ft) and build (cast iron motor housing, switch fits a narrow pit vs switch fits a narrow pit).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every 1/2 HP and up sump pump; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Liberty Pumps 287 | Liberty Pumps 457 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 2.9/5 | 2.4/5 |
| Value 30% | 24 $97.95 per 1,000 GPH at 10 ft ($323.25, 3,300 GPH) | 29 $92.06 per 1,000 GPH at 10 ft ($243.05, 2,640 GPH) |
| Flow 30% | 32 3,300 GPH at 10 ft | 6 2,640 GPH at 10 ft |
| Build 20% | 67 cast iron motor housing, switch fits a narrow pit | 33 switch fits a narrow pit |
| Warranty 20% | 50 3-year warranty | 50 3-year warranty |
Specifications
| Liberty Pumps 287 | Liberty Pumps 457 | |
|---|---|---|
| Pumping | ||
| Motor | 1/2 HP | 1/2 HP |
| Type | Submersible | Submersible |
| Flow at 10 ft | 3,300 GPH | 2,640 GPH |
| Flow at 0 ft | 4,140 GPH | 3,180 GPH |
| Max lift | 39 ft | 34 ft |
| Discharge | 1.5 in | 1.5 in |
| Running current | 8 A | 7.3 A |
| Switch and build | ||
| Switch | Vertical float | Vertical float |
| Cast iron housing | Yes | No |
| Alarm or monitoring | No | No |
| Wi-Fi | No | No |
| Cord length | 10 ft | 25 ft |
| Weight | 29 lb | 12.5 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
