The Best Robotic Pool Cleaner – Review and Buying Guide

Who wants to swim in a filthy swimming pool? 

I bet not you! 

And that makes it essential to be proactive when it comes to your pool maintenance and cleaning.

The good news is robotic pool cleaners have made it easier to keep the pool clean without the pool owner’s input. 

They have removed the need of working harder and replaced it with working more intelligently. 

These cleaners have also come to save time and let the pool owner enjoy swimming more while worrying less about the pool maintenance. 

What are the best robotic pool cleaners on the market?

We have reviewed the top 10 models and given you a buying guide to follow when choosing the ideal one for your needs. 

The Top 10 Robotic Pool Cleaners Review – Best Models 

We independently research, test, and recommend the leading robotic pool cleaners on the market today. Let’s dive in!

Best Overall – Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Cleaner 

You can’t go wrong with the Nautilus CC Plus if you are looking for a pool cleaner that can free your time. 

It was designed to take over pool cleaning duties from pool owners and is recommended for an inground pool. 

The product helps to clean an up to 50-foot facility within 120 minutes, leaving it sparkling clean. 

One notable feature is the dual scrubbing brushes that help remove even the toughest messes from the surface. 

Another striking cleaning feature is the superior filtration capability for collecting even the tiniest of debris. 

You can rest knowing your facility’s walls and floor are shiny every time you take a swim. 

Other notable features:

Best for Above Ground – Dolphin E10 Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner 

The E10 model is marketed as “the easy to clean a pool” and lives to that phrase. 

It was designed for an above-ground swimming pool of up to 30-foot, making it ideal for such a facility.

One great thing about this cleaner is the 24-month warranty of quality assurance – you can clean without any worry.

And that’s just the start since it gives you more time to relax by cleaning your facility in 90 minutes. 

Some features that make that possible are floor scrubbing and super filtering capabilities. 

They combine to give you peace of mind knowing your pool is sparkling and free of debris. 

Other notable features:

• Help to save energy when cleaning your pool since it doesn’t use additional hoses or pumps 
• Has an average running cost of 5 cents per hour 
• It lasts for years without developing any issues 
• Provides the single click basket – large filter type 
• Able to clean the floor without leaving a mess behind
• Weights 22.7 pounds 
• Measures 18 x 22 x 12 inches

Best for Inground Pools – Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner

“Drop and go.” That is how to describe the Premier model as it is straightforward to use. 

The model allows for a single button plug & play operation and is ideal for an inground pool of 50-foot. 

And you do not need to fret about the model even when you use it daily since it comes with a 36-month quality assurance warranty. 

When it comes to cleaning, the robot delivers quality performance thanks to CleverClean technology. 

It is a tech that delivers efficient and smart cleaning using the latest algorithm for complete pool coverage.

The robotic cleaner also comes with an anti-tangle patented swivel cable to prevent it from getting stuck when cleaning.

Other notable features:

• Robust and dual scrubbing brushes for removing the toughest of debris and dirt from the pool
• Able to clean waterline, walls, and floor within 180 minutes 
• Multiple filter options: bottom-load cartridge filter, oversize fine filter bag, and ultra-fine cartridge filters
• The ideal model for algae
• Designed to make cleaning convenient by allowing the three settings of Dolphin’s cleaners 
• It has a full filter indicator to show you when it is time to clean the robot
• For fiberglass pool, plaster pool, vinyl pool, and gunite pool 
• Weighs 36.7 pounds 
• Measures 23.1 x 19.5 x 14 inches

Best for Leaves – Dolphin Triton PS Robotic Pool Cleaner

Triton PS ensures your hands are off your swimming pool cleaning responsibilities for good. 

It leaves your facility clean and ready for use within 120 minutes. It is recommended for a water body of up to 50-foot.

Thanks to its ‘deep clean” ability, the model does all the hard work that leaves the waterline and wall clean. 

Its vertical climbing ability is further enhanced by the superior filtering ability to remove all debris and dirt from the water. 

You can also bet on the sustainability of the cleaner, and rest assured, it saves on operating costs. 

Other notable features:

• The cleaner does not depend on the pool filter or pump to remove debris from the water 
• It helps to prolong the pool’s system life and save on energy cost 
• Easy to schedule the cleaning time using the Dolphin three system settings 
• Makes use of the single click basket – extra large filter type 
• Weighs 16.5 pounds 
• Measures around 16.38 x 16.77 x 8.97 inches

Best Smart – Polaris 9650IQ Sport Robotic Cleaner 

Sometimes we all want an intelligent pool cleaner that can intelligently do the job – that’s what the Polaris 9650IQ model does.

It is a model that you link to the iAquaLink App in your phone to clean your pool whenever you want, no matter where you are.

The model comes WiFi-ready and has many features from the above Polaris app to let you choose different actions from your phone.

Another superb feature is the dirty canister indicator that shows when it is time to empty the system. 

You can use this robot to clean an inground pool of up to 60-foot within 120 minutes. 

Other notable features:

• Easy to start/stop the cleaner thanks to mobile app and WiFi connectivity 
• Provides a 4-wheel-drive system to allow obstacle climbing for a premium cleaning 
• Low-torque watertight swivel cable prevents it from tangling during the operation 
• The package comes with a 70-foot cable 
• You get a premium caddy for placing the robotic cleaner
• Included is an extra-large 5L debris canister
• Weighs 44.8 pounds 
• Ideal for tile, pebble, gunite, fibreglass, and vinyl pools 

Best Budget – Aiper Smart Cordless Automatic Pool Cleaner

The Aiper Smart Cordless might be the best budget cleaner in the review, but it allows for 100% cord-free, hassle, free operation. 

You also don’t need any hose to clean your facility using this robot, and it is ideal for a 538sq/ft pool. 

It leaves such as facility spotless clean within 50 minutes. The cleaning process is also smooth.

Its vacuum cleaner comes with 2pcs powerful motors to guarantee a strong suction.

The system also combines 2pcs bottom brushes to attack the most challenging material, including sand, debris, buds, and leaves.

Besides, the model allows for self-dock innovative technology that tells the cleaner when to recharge the battery.

Other notable features:

• Easy to lift the cleaner when it is done cleaning and the cordless nature make it ideal for steps 
• It comes with IPXA8 waterproof technology to prevent internal damage
• It has a lithium battery that provides 3-4 hours of service when fully charged 
• A compact robotic cleaner that weighs around 9.48 pounds
• Easy to clean the filter tray 
• Measures 15 x 14 x 8 inches

Best for Vinyl Pools – Dolphin Quantum Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner

Your pool cleaning needs are made easier by the Dolphin Quantum Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner.

It is a lightweight model developed for all inground swimming pools and comes with the Dolphin’s weekly scheduler.

Another notable thing is the anti-tangling swivel tech to allow the cleaner to move around freely.

The model is specially made to clean residential facilities of up to 50-foot and offers hassle-free cleaning. 

It also features the PowerStream mobility that allows constant grip on all vertical walls for waterline and wall cleaning.

And you can have the confidence that it scrubs and hugs your facility to remove stuck-on-dirt and tough messes.

Other notable features:

• It comes with ultra-fine and fine filters for providing super filtration 
• Has top-loading filter basket to trap dirt, leaves, and other small materials 
• Easily leaves the pool clean within 120 minutes
• 8x more energy-saving than suction and pressure pool cleaners 
• Backed by a 24-month warranty 
• Weighs 28.3 pounds 
• Measures 13.5 x 10.25 x 6 inches

PAXCESS Cordless Automatic Pool Cleaner

The PAXCESS is an innovative pool cleaner for 100m2 and is recommended for above and inground pools. 

It comes equipped with a 5000mah lithium-ion battery that provides between 60-90 minutes of cleaning. 

Its cordless nature means you get a robotic model that never gets stuck when cleaning the pool.

Another superb feature is the IPX8 waterproof design for preventing the water from accessing the internal parts. 

There are also powerful motors and deflectors to enable the cleaner to move fast – at around 16m/min. 

That is ideal for pool owners who want to save time while ensuring you get a deep-cleaned pool. 

It also has two large suction doors, a superior filter, and one bottom brush to efficiently clean sand, dirt, and leaves.

Other notable features:

• Stops along the water shoreline when the battery is drained 
• Easy to remove the robot out of the water thanks to the floating handle 
• Easy to charge by plugging it into a 110v outlet 
• It comes with a 24-month warranty to provide you with peace of mind 
• Weighs 12.1 pounds 
• Measures 17.8 x 15.1 x 12.3 inches

Instapark Betta Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner 

Intapark Betta was designed to remove all floating material from your pool’s surface, like pollen, leaves, dust, and dead insects. 

It uses solar energy to move around, meaning you get to save on operation cost 100%.

And that means there is no cable connecting the cleaner to the power source that can tangle. 

The robot’s built-in battery comes in handy during the night as it allows for lighting.

Another notable feature is the underwater brushless motor that helps to drive the thruster around.

It is a better option than the traditional gears that reduce movement.

You can count on the long-lasting nature of this pool cleaner as it gives value for money. 

Other notable features: 

• Provides a unique wireless remote-control option for switching between remote and automatic use 
• The remote control helps to steer the cleaner to the docking area or perform the fixed cleaning task 
• It has a top handle basket design for enabling easy removal from the swimming pool
• The large-capacity debris basket
• Weighs 14.12 pounds  
• Measures 22 x 19 x 8 inches

Hayward W32025ADV PoolVac XL Suction Pool Cleaner 

This is the ideal pool cleaner for any pool owner looking for a vinyl pool robotic cleaner. 

It provides automatic vacuum cleaning power and is recommended for a facility of 20 x 40 ft. 

The unit’s unique wing design, constant suction power, and wide vacuum inlet make it more efficient in collecting debris and dirt. 

You also get to enjoy the programmed cleaning feature thanks to the exclusive AquaPilot steering pattern. 

It is a technology that guarantees adequate pool coverage of walls, coves, and floors intelligently. 

Besides, the technology minimizes cable tangling to guarantee effective cleaning.

Other notable features:

• Its advanced suction provides quiet and effective cleaning 
• You get a peaceful pool environment since there are no noisy parts and pulsating hoses
• There are no messy trash bags to empty, and the cleaner is easy to use and maintain
• It is easy to install this model as you can connect it within 10 minutes to your pool suction or skimmer port
• You don’t need to purchase an extra booster pump for it to operate 
• Weighs 17.91 pounds
• Measures about 40.4 x 13.6 x 11.9 inches

Robotic Pool Cleaner Buying Guide – How to Rate the Cleaners  

Our team did a lot of research, testing, and grading the pool cleaners on this review.

Below are the primary things we considered when assembling the list of the top 10 robot cleaners for 2021. 

Cleaning Ability 

Cleaning ability is the most critical metric that any pool owner should consider when buying these units. 

We assessed the cleaning ability of every robot in our review to know how it does when cleaning the walls, stairs, floor, waterline, etc. 

Our models are close to 5-star rated because they do an excellent job scrubbing and filtering the dirt out of the water. 

Energy Efficiency 

Robotic cleaners are achieving better energy efficiency ratings as their technology continues to improve over the years.

These models include features like intelligent scanning, strong-grip tracks, and motors, making them more efficient.

You can even find a model for under $1000 that is close to a 5-star rating when it comes to saving energy.

Most units on our review have proven to be energy-efficiency and end up paying for themselves in the long run.

Ease of Use

We aim to ensure you get an easy time when cleaning your pool, and one way is to get a simple cleaner.

It doesn’t mean that the above products are complicated to use because they come with high-tech features.

Most of these units are 5-star rated because they come ready to use – you only need to Plug & Play them to remove the debris from your pool.  

These robots are also easy to set up, maintain, and even program.

Value for Money

We also take into consideration the value you get when you choose a specific robot cleaner. 

The different models in the review perform differently and varying price ranges like under $500, over $1000, etc. 

Some of the most expensive models in our review are also the most efficient and get a 5-star rating from previous owners. 

Some Notes: The robotic pool cleaner you buy should be highly rated regarding cleaning ability, energy efficiency, ease of use, and proving value for money. 

Robotic Pool Cleaners Buyer’s Guide – Know Your Swimming Pool

Knowing your pool type before you click that online link and purchase a pool cleaner is vital.

Some robots work best at specific pools, while others might require additional features. 

Some of the things to consider when it comes to the pool are:

The Pool Floor 

You should never purchase a pool cleaner if you don’t know the type of floor your facility has. 

Some of the things to know are answering the following questions:

You also need to know the material used to make the sides and the floor. Some facilities are made of tile, fibreglass, or even vinyl. 

Finally, get a robotic cleaner that is made to move around the pool and clean it without causing damage.

Some Warnings: Picking the wrong robot pool cleaner can result in inefficiency, pool damage, and waste of money.

Pool Shape 

Is your swimming pool rectangular, round, or regular? 

You can find hundreds of pool cleaners that can clean such a facility without any problem. 

A pool with an irregular shape and many crannies and nooks will require a particular robot to remove the dirt and debris. 

Buying Tip: Check the manufacturer guide and user reviews when buying a cleaner for an irregular pool. You might avoid the hassle of untangling a stuck cleaner.

Above Ground Vs Inground Pool

Some of the leading pool cleaners are made for cleaning the above ground and inground swimming pools. 

The one thing to note is the more advanced models that climb sides and walls might be too powerful for an above ground pool.

Pool Size

The pool size matters due to two reasons:

• It determines the ideal cord length of the robotic cleaner
• It determines the duration it takes for the cleaner to complete a cycle of cleaning 

A larger pool will require a longer cable for the robot to cover all the pool’s corners. 

Some Notes: A 300-foot pool or bigger will require a robotic cleaner with a larger storage capacity to collect more debris and dirt.

Robot Pool Cleaner Buying Guide – Features to Look For

You know how to rate a pool cleaner and the type of pool you have, but what are the features/qualities to watch when purchasing this model?

Some pool cleaners come with basic features, while others offer extras to enable them before particular tasks. 

Smart Features / System Control 

Modern pool owners are spoilt for choices when it comes to what their cleaners can do. 

Some devices only require you to push a button or swipe your finger to start operating independently and effectively.

Other models have remote controls to let you operate them from a distance.

And the most advanced robotic pool cleaners are WiFi-enabled to let you use via App on your phone to smart or program them. 

Such an intelligent feature lets you adjust the cleaner’s cleaning mode and schedule and monitor its history.

Cleaner’s Functionality 

Pool cleaning devices are designed to clean your facility in different ways, meeting different needs. 

The basis principal including vacuuming the floor, scrubbing with brushes, and using filters to circulate the water. 

However, they vary in how and where else they clean the pool. 

For instance, a model’s tracks or wheels play a part in determining if it can climb the wall or move around edges and corners. 

These units have sensors for scanning the pool to figure out how to clean it efficiently.

But some comes with more sophisticated sensors that make them more efficient. 

The cleaner’s functionality also involves the ability to program it. 

For instance, you might need to choose a model you can program if you want a device that you can vary when cleaning – quick or thorough mode.

What that means is you should find the ideal filter’s size – a large pool will require a robot with a large filter to handle all the material at once. 

Cleaning Surfaces

The primary reason for getting a robotic pool cleaner is to minimize the time it takes to remove leaves, debris, and other trash from the water.

Hence, you should choose a model that can handle different surfaces of your pool like the floors, walls, and waterline.  

The Robot’s Motor

The cleaner’s motor determines how it performs. 

It drives the brushes, which plays a significant role in determining how fast the robot will get the pool cleaned. 

The same motor plays a significant role in the device’s suction system. 

Buying Tip: A DC motor isn’t a must-have for a robot pool cleaner, but it helps to smooth the operation and save energy. 

Operation Time – Cleaning Timer 

Every pool owner wants to have the pool ready to take a swim whenever the weather is favorable. 

That means you should go for a model with a short or swift cleaning cycle. 

Generally, your cleaner shouldn’t take more than 4-hrs to clean your facility.

Pool experts recommend cleaning your pool fast, and therefore you need a model with a timer.

A timer can help you set the robot to clean without your intervention.  

The timer helps you set the robot to start cleaning even when you are away. Some standard settings are daily, after a day, or after three days. 

Navigation System

Robot pool cleaner brands have implemented different technologies to make the devices navigate the pool quickly and logically. 

These techs include gyroscopes, sensors, and Bluetooth. Some models even move in determining patterns, while others learn the layout as they clean.

A high-quality automatic cleaner should also have the ability to climb the walls and waterline. 

A Thing to Note: Ensure the robotic cleaner you choose is study, has all-terrain tracks or wheels, and uses four-wheel drive. 

Brushing System – Power Washing Jets

Robotic cleaner brushes vary from one model to the other and from brand to brand. 

Some brushes are made of pleated material or PVC bristles, while others resemble the solid blade. 

No matter the brush, always ensure they turn fast to remove even the toughest of messes. 

You should even consider getting a cleaner that enables you to change the brush intensity

Some automatic cleaners have power washing jets while others use brushes – some have both.

Power jets come in handy when cleaning dirt, silt, and sand.

These jets also work wonders when cleaning pool surfaces that are not ideal for brushes.

Customized Cleaning Cycles

Go for a model with multiple cleaning cycles if you want a cleaner with the option of selecting the cleaning level and type.

It is more efficient because you can set the cleaning time and intensity to meet your needs. 

With that said, different brands and models have different cleaning intensities and levels. 

Buying Tips: Take your time to look at reviews before you purchase a pool cleaner. You will know what other people are saying about the model.

Light or Heavy – Weight

The weight matters because you need to place the robot in the pool and take it out after cleaning.

The cleaner is always heavier when lifting it from the pool due to debris, dirt, and water. 

It is critical to get a lightweight model which you can manage with ease. 

Type of Filtration 

You might not believe what you get in a swimming pool, such as dirt, sand, leaves, and insects. 

Most automatic pool cleaners feature two or more filter types to handle both the coarse and fine debris.

There are even models that use a canister or a bag. 

The most advanced cleaners offer full indicator features, removing guesswork when emptying the bag or canister.

A Swivel Cord

You will find that most robotic cleaners don’t need batteries to operate and are hooked to a power supply. 

That means they need a power cord that can easily get tangled if it is not of the right quality. 

This is common with irregularly shaped facilities and pools with obstacles and stairs. 

Consider going for a model with a swivel cord to prevent this from happening. 

Cordless Pool Cleaner

The latest models of pool cleaners do not require a power cord to operate since they use batteries. 

These models do not run into the risk of getting tangled and can operate for about 90 minutes. 

They often halt alongside the pool’s edge once the battery gets drained or complete the cleaning cycle. 

Buying Tip: Corded Vs Cordless? Cordless are ideal for a large pool since they don’t have a cord to limit them. 

Walls Climbing Ability 

Climbing the swimming pool wall is a good thing for a pool cleaner. So, get a model that can offer this service. 

You can bet your pool becomes cleaner if the robot can clean the floor, walls, and waterline. 

A robot that uses tracks when navigating can also climb stairs, sides, and walls. 

Sadly, such a cleaner is more expensive than one using wheels. 

Obstacle Dodging and Deflection 

Swimming pools contain obstacles like steps, water features, and stairs and have corners. 

No pool owner wants to rescue a stuck cleaner that gets stuck due to these obstacles. 

Some robots have mechanisms and sensors to dodge obstacles and deflect corners to prevent these situations.

Robot Cleaner Durability 

Pool owners want to buy equipment that can provide them with services for years to get value for money. 

That makes it critical to go for a robot cleaner made of high-quality and durable components and materials. 

Such a model could end up cleaning your swimming pool for over 8-years if you maintain it properly. 

Another thing is to choose a cleaner with a warranty that covers repairs and other aspects of the cleaner.

Energy-Saving Model

A giant pool cleaner will use more energy to get your swimming pool sparkling clean.

On average, a small cleaner use about 200 watts per hour, with a large one using 1,000 watts. 

Energy efficiency also depends on other things like the ‘smart feature’ present. 

For instance, the intelligent feature allows the cleaner to scan and map your pool for more efficient cleaning. 

It is vital to go for the ideal size of the robotic cleaner to meet your pool’s shape and size. 

Easy-to-Find Repair Parts

You now know how to find a model that might suit your needs, but it should be easy to repair.

Impellers, drive belts, filters, and other parts might need replacement in future for the system to continue cleaning effectively.

You shouldn’t wait for a month to get a replacement belt if it breaks during the winter. 

Ensure you buy a model that has parts available both online and offline stores. 

It is safe to say that most models you find on Amazon always have readily available spare parts, which you can order from that site.

Robotic Pool Cleaners FAQs

You can learn more about the robot pool cleaners from the section below of their frequently asked questions.

How Do Robotic Pool Cleaners Work?

A robotic pool cleaner uses an electric motor to provide suction that removes debris and dirt from the water.

Most units also have rotating brushes for dislodging stubborn material like algae from the surface. 

These cleaners have wheels or tracks which enable them to move around the pool to cover all areas. 

When they suck the debris, it is transferred to a filter bag attached to the robot, which you can empty. 

Their superior cleaning power is achieved due to the better technology they provide than other pool cleaners.  

And some even allow you to set their operation time or level of cleaning like a quick and thorough cleaning. 

One feature that helps them clean effectively is the sensors – they help detect the pool’s shape, waterline, obstacles, and cleaning path. 

Some robot cleaners even come with a remote control to allow for simple operation without touching the unit.

Others are operated through App through a smartphone. 

Can You Swim with Robotic Pool Cleaner?

It is possible to swim while the robot cleaner is cleaning your swimming pool. 

However, you should let it clean before diving into the water because you chum up the water.

When you swim while the robot is cleaning, the current might buffet the water, making it harder to finish the task.

Your pool cleaner will need to work two or three times harder to clean your pool. 

How Often to Run Robotic Pool Cleaner?

Ideally, you should run your robotic pool cleaner at least once per day or daily if you always use your pool.

You can run it once per week if you don’t use your pool regularly, or even after 2-week.

It is all right to operate it once per month if the pool cover is always one. 

With that said, you need to know the pool’s condition to know how often to clean – maybe the area has many leaves falling; run it daily. 

How Long Do Robotic Pool Cleaners Last?

We all want to buy pool products that provide value for money, and that is what you can get from robotic pool cleaners.

These units have an average lifespan of 4-5 years, although some operate for about 8-year. 

That also means you can get a model that lasts for only 3-year.

The one thing that can determine the cleaner’s durability is how you maintain it. 

Well-maintained robotic pool cleaners can provide you service for years without any significant repair.

How to Use a Robotic Pool Vacuum?

Robotic pool vacuums operate on electricity and don’t require any pool equipment – it helps reduce the operation cost. 

These models are easy to use since you only need to place them inside the pool, and they will do the cleaning. 

The most advanced cleaners even climb the walls, stairs and clean the waterline. 

Are Robotic Pool Cleaners Worth It?

The top rated robotic pool cleaners might be more expensive than most units out there but worth every penny. 

These robots pay for themselves in energy saving after a few years, especially when you choose the suitable model for your pool.

They effectively clean small and large debris and even help circulate the water when the pool filter isn’t operating.

Robotic pool cleaners also effectively clean the entire pool, including the floor, wall, and waterline. 

Some of the most advanced models feature a computer chip for tracking their activities and helps them to clean effectively.

And there is a robotic pool cleaner to meet every pool owner cleaning needs, budget, and expectations.