Best Variable-Speed Pool Pumps for In-Ground Pools Ranked

A small, very efficient dual-voltage pump for modest pools and simple replacements of an old 1 HP single-speed pump.

A mid-size dual-voltage replacement pump for typical backyard pools, best when a dealer is swapping out an old 1-1.5 HP pump.

A budget 2.2 HP variable-speed pump for larger pools on a 230 V circuit, when price matters more than app control or warranty.

A 2.2 HP smart pump for mid-size and larger pools, best for replacing a SuperFlo-size pump on either voltage.

For ordinary in-ground pools replacing a 1 to 1.5 HP pump, by owners who want app control and constant-flow filtering built into the pump.

The biggest TriStar VS 800, for larger pools or pads with a spa, when app control over Bluetooth is enough.

A 2.2 HP pump for mid-size and larger pools with a heater or water feature, best for DIY buyers who want a five-year warranty without a dealer.

A small 1.25 HP TriStar for modest in-ground pools, best for owners who want app schedules without buying an automation system.

A plain, efficient variable-speed swap for a 1 to 1.5 HP pump on an ordinary in-ground pool, for owners happy to set three speeds on the keypad.

A low-cost, efficient replacement for a 1 to 1.5 HP single-speed pump on a 230 V circuit, for owners happy with keypad control.

Worth it over the plain 1.85 DV only if you want the two auxiliary relays to switch a chlorinator or booster pump.

Jandy’s dual-voltage pick for medium pools and small water features, replacing single-speed pumps up to 1.5 HP.

A mid-size TriStar for typical in-ground pools, best for owners who want phone schedules over Bluetooth without an automation system.

A dual-voltage 1.5 HP pump for owners replacing an old single-speed pump themselves, with a long warranty that does not require a dealer.

A mid-size dual-voltage pump for typical in-ground pools, best for owners who want keypad schedules and a link to Omni, Pentair or Jandy automation.

A low-cost variable-speed pump for DIY owners on a 230 V circuit; buyers counting on a utility rebate should pick an ENERGY STAR model.

A low-cost variable-speed pump for DIY owners on a 230 V circuit; buyers counting on a utility rebate should pick an ENERGY STAR model.

A low-cost variable-speed pump for DIY owners on a 230 V circuit; buyers counting on a utility rebate should pick an ENERGY STAR model.

A small, very efficient smart pump for modest pools, best for owners replacing a Hayward SuperFlo-size pump who want app control without a hub.

An efficient small pump for modest in-ground pools with 1.5 in plumbing, best as a replacement for an old MaxFlo.

The bigger MaxFlo VS 400, for mid-size pools that need more flow in a compact body, controlled from the OmniX app.

A compact dual-voltage replacement for an old Hayward Super Pump on a typical in-ground pool, with keypad schedules and wide automation support.

The bigger Super Pump VS 600, for pools that need more flow than the 615 in a compact Super Pump body, controlled from the OmniX app.

An app-controlled replacement for an old Hayward Super Pump on a typical in-ground pool, for owners who don’t have an automation system.

A smart drop-in for a Pentair-footprint pad, for owners who want app control and flow targeting on 115 or 230 V.

A budget app-controlled pump for smaller in-ground pools, for owners replacing an old MaxFlo who don’t have an automation system.

A middle size for pools that need more than 1.65 HP, but most buyers do better with the ENERGY STAR Pro-V for rebates.

A sturdy drop-in replacement for an old Hayward or Pentair pump on an average pool, for owners who want a keypad scheduler and no app.