10 Best Pool Salt Testers 2026 in the United States

The Saltwater Pool Test Strips from EASYTEST are designed specifically for those maintaining saltwater pools, which are popular for providing a gentler swimming experience compared to traditional chlorine pools. These strips measure sodium chloride content within a range of 0-8000 ppm, making them suitable for the ideal salt level of most saltwater pools, around 3200 ppm. One notable strength is their ease of use; simply dip the strip in the water for a second, wait five seconds, and then compare the resulting color to the provided chart. This quick testing method is especially beneficial for pool owners looking to maintain optimal salt levels without complicated procedures.

The durable PET paper used for the strips adds to their longevity, ensuring they can withstand regular use in pool maintenance. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Users must follow specific tips for accurate readings, such as keeping wet fingers away and reading results in natural daylight. Additionally, the strips are designed for one-time use after opening, which might not be ideal for infrequent testers or those who prefer a longer-lasting product.

These test strips are best suited for regular saltwater pool users who prioritize ease of maintenance and quick results. They offer a practical solution for monitoring salt levels but require attention to detail during use to achieve accurate readings.

The ITS 486201-KM Pool Exact EZ Photometer is a versatile and user-friendly pool water test kit that measures 10 important parameters, including salt levels, with good accuracy. Its main strength lies in the easy-to-use digital readout, which eliminates the hassle of comparing colors manually, making testing faster and less prone to human error. The detection ranges cover typical pool water values well, allowing you to check for salt from 80 to 6700 ppm and other chemicals within standard safe limits.

The kit comes in a sturdy plastic case with all the necessary components and enough tests (25 each) to last for a while. Calibration and quality control are handled carefully during manufacturing, ensuring reliable and consistent results. The physical size is compact, but the product weight is about 2.25 pounds, which might be a bit heavier than some simpler test strips or handheld devices. While the kit is durable and made in the USA with good manufacturing practices, it requires following instructions closely for best results, which might be a slight learning curve for complete beginners.

The included cleaning brush and manual help maintain the device and improve longevity. This tester is well suited for pool owners who want a detailed, accurate assessment of multiple water quality parameters including salt, rather than just a basic salt-only test. It combines precision with convenience, making it a great fit for maintaining a healthy pool environment with confidence.

The Taylor TTK2006SALT Test Kit is a robust option for both homeowners and professionals looking to test saltwater pools and spas. One of its standout strengths is the reliability of results, offering accurate readings for nine key water parameters, including free chlorine and pH levels. The kit includes easy-to-follow instructions and user-friendly pictograms, making it straightforward, even for those who aren't very tech-savvy. The convenient storage case keeps everything organized, and the availability of replacement reagents extends the kit's lifespan, allowing you to maintain it season after season. Plus, being made in the USA adds a layer of trust in quality and manufacturing standards.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The testing process, while easy, may require a bit of time and patience, especially if you're not familiar with water testing. The kit’s design is compact, which is good for storage, but the relatively low volume of the reagent bottles (0.75oz) might not be ideal for users who test their water frequently. For those individuals, the larger K-2006C-SALT kit would be a better fit.

The Taylor TTK2006SALT Test Kit is well-suited for users seeking a reliable and user-friendly solution for saltwater pool testing, but high-frequency testers may want to explore options with larger reagent sizes for convenience.