The best variable-speed pool pumps at a checked price under $500.
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.
Best Variable-Speed Pool Pumps Under $500: Above-Ground
- XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP Variable Speed#1 of 7Full review
A low-cost, ENERGY STAR variable-speed pump for above-ground pools, for buyers who want the efficiency without paying for a big brand.
Amazon $379.95$379.951.5 HP12.2161% above- - Doheny's Pool Pro VS#2 of 7Full review
A variable-speed above-ground pump with a built-in schedule, for Doheny’s shoppers outside California.
Amazon $451.99$451.991.5 HP10.6127% above- - VIVOHOME 2 HP Dual Speed VH1896#3 of 7Full review
A budget two-speed pump with a scheduling remote, for above-ground pool owners who want hands-off speed changes for little money.
Amazon $269.99$269.992 HP7112% above- - VIVOHOME 1.5 HP Dual Speed VH1895#4 of 7Full review
A budget two-speed pump with a scheduling remote, for above-ground pool owners who want hands-off speed changes for little money.
Amazon $239.99$239.991.5 HP7.295% above- - VIVOHOME 1.5 HP Variable Speed VH1736#5 of 7Full review
A cheap scheduled multi-speed pump for above-ground pools, though true variable-speed models use much less power.
Amazon $279.99$279.991.5 HP5.819% above- - Aquastrong 2 HP Dual Speed#6 of 7Full 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$238.400.8 HP4.92% above2 yr - Aquastrong 1.5 HP Dual Speed#7 of 7Full 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 $214.40$214.400.7 HP3.7At the minimum2 yr
Best Variable-Speed Pool Pumps Under $500: In-Ground
- XtremepowerUS 1.5 HP ECO Variable Speed#1 of 2Full review
A low-cost ENERGY STAR pump to replace a 1 to 1.5 HP single-speed pump on a 230 V circuit, for owners happy with keypad control.
Amazon $499.95$499.951.6 HP9.730% above- - Aquastrong Variable Speed 1.5 HP#2 of 2Full review
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.
Amazon $479.20$479.20---2 yr
