5 Best Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaners
If you’re the proud owner of a pool, you want to keep it as clean as possible year-round. You’ll need a good vacuum, but finding the right one for you can be hard when there are so many options on the market.
This list contains some of the best pool vacuums on the market with features that set them apart. One of them just might be the right fit for you. Check out what our pool experts had to say about each of these top picks so that you can purchase your next vacuum with confidence.
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Best Robotic Pool Vacuums
Our picks for the best robotic pool vacuum cleaners are:
- Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus – Best In-Ground Robotic Pool Cleaner
- Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme – Best Wi-Fi Connected Robotic Pool Cleaner
- Polaris P825 Sport Automatic Robotic – Best Cordless Polaris
- AIPER Orca 1300 Automatic – Best AIPER Option
- Polaris 9650iQ Sport – Most Powerful Automatic Pool Cleaner
If you’re looking for a way to reduce your maintenance and keep your pool spotless while saving money, then read on below to get our picks for the best robotic pool cleaners.
1. Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus
Best In-Ground Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is a robotic pool cleaner perfect for in-ground swimming pools of 50 feet or less. This cleaner can get the job done in up to 2 hours without you having to lift a finger because of its superior twin cartridge filtration system. We found that the dual brushes for scrubbing were able to remove all the impurities off the surface walls better than any other in- ground model.
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is an independent cleaning machine that doesn’t require large pumps or hoses that require more energy and space like some of its competitors. It comes with three convenient setting options: every day, every other day, and every third day, so all you have to do is touch a button to get the hassle-free cleaning started.
Features
- Cleaning range: 50 feet
- Weight: 19 pounds
- Weekly Cleaning Timer Features Available
Pros
- Cleanings can be scheduled for your liking using the setting options.
- Cartridges are easy to clean and replace.
- The strong suction power makes it easy to clean the floor and walls.
Cons
- Some experts report that it can get stuck on ladders or steps.
- The power cord could be longer to make usage more efficient.
Bottom Line
This compact robot offers superior cleaning capabilities with customizable programming. This straightforward machine is ideal for new pool owners.
2. Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme
Best Wi-Fi Connected Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme is a superior robot cleaner with powerful motors, three brushes for scrubbing, and extra-large twin cartridges to clean every part of the pool, including the waterline. This interactive, premium cleaner connects to WiFi, so you can quickly set the cleaning schedule, the cycle, and even direct spot cleaning from anywhere, as long as you have your phone with you.
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme can be set up to do a quick cleaning, standard cleaning, or clean a specified area, depending on how much time you want to dedicate to cleaning that day. In our opinion, having this much control over our pool cleaner without having to do the cleaning makes the higher price worth every penny.
Features
- Cable Length: 60 feet of Tangle-Free Cable
- Weight: 24 pounds
- WiFi Connectivity with the MyDolphin Plus Mobile App
Pros
- It cleans every part of the pool thoroughly.
- The setup is super easy.
- Controlling the robot with the app works very well.
Cons
- Connecting it to the WiFi can be tricky depending on your device or service.
- It doesn’t come with a physical owner’s manual.
Bottom Line
This premium cleaner is ideal for owners who love using their phone to manage their household tasks. You’ll never forget to clean your pool again.
3. Polaris P825 Sport Automatic Robotic
Best Cordless Polaris
The Polaris P825 Sport Automatic Robotic provides a premium cleaning performance. It relies on cordless suction technology to navigate every part of your pool’s surface without losing its grip. Our pool experts can guarantee you will never have to touch debris again because of the robot’s Push’N’Go filter canister. All you have to do is shake it and spray it.
The Polaris P825 Sport comes with a 50ft cable, a 4L debris canister, and a caddy for convenient transport and storage. The caddy feature is highly sought after by customers, but few competitors come equipped with one when you order their robot. Your pool will be immaculate within 1.5 hours. Just activate the dual-cleaning cycle using the one-touch on-demand cleaning option, and it does the work for you.
Features
- Cable Length: 70 feet
- 50’ Floating Cable
- Premium caddy
Pros
- It cleans and scrubs the walls efficiently.
- The caddy cart improves the user experience and makes storage easier.
- The debris canister picks up large debris and is easy to remove with its transparent lid.
Cons
- The suction can cause the robot to get stuck on stair mats.
- The price is on the high end.
Bottom Line
This automatic robot gets the job done with just one touch of a button. The premium caddy included makes cleaning day more efficient than ever.
4. AIPER Orca 1300 Automatic
Best Automatic AIPER Pool Cleaner
The AIPER Orca 1300 Automatic comes with two roller brushes that can do twice the amount of cleaning at half the time. This automatic robotic pool cleaner uses PVC rollers for superior absorption and grip capabilities. It can climb walls to scrub every surface, including the waterline. There are three cleaning modes with preset durations to choose from.
The AIPER Automatic Pool Cleaner comes with a 2-year warranty plan to guarantee you get the best experience possible. The robot comes with a safety rope that you can tie to the power box to prevent it from falling into the water. The 50ft anti-tangle cable also prevents it from getting caught around obstacles like the ladder as it cleans every surface of your pool.
Features
- PVC rollers for absorption and grip
- Tangle-free Safety Rope
- 1-hr Quick Clean Mode
Pros
- The double roller brush cleans faster and more efficiently than cleaners with a single brush.
- The safety rope prevents unnecessary trouble between the robot and the power supplier.
- It comes almost ready to go as soon as you take it out of the box.
Cons
- A few of our experts have reported that the Orca 1300 doesn’t pick up sand well.
- Some of the movement functions can be improved.
Bottom Line
This cleaner is perfect for every hands-off owner. Your in-ground pool will be spotless without the need for supervision.
5. Polaris 9650iQ Sport
Most Powerful Automatic Pool Cleaner
The Polaris 9650iQ Sport is the most intelligent cleaner, perfect for pool owners who want a quick and efficient in-ground robotic cleaner. In our experience, this device offers a premium cleaning performance that is unmatched in the market. The 4-wheel drive capability lets it climb over obstacles without getting stuck, a common problem with similar cleaners.
The Polaris 9650iQ Sport comes with a 70ft cable, a tangle-reducing swivel, and an extra-large 5L debris canister. This will pick up all the dirt, debris, and leaves after a storm or pool party without having to change the cartridge. You can clean your entire pool using the iAquaLink app that lets you control the robot and even alerts you when the canister is dirty.
Features
- iAquaLink App to control from anywhere
- Dirty Canister Indicator
- 4WD Capabilities
Pros
- Perfect for in-ground pools of all sizes and surfaces up to 60ft.
- The 4-wheel drive and low-torque watertight swivel prevent cleaning interruptions.
- It includes a wall brush for superior cleaning capabilities.
Cons
- This robot is heavier than the average cleaner, which may not be ideal for all users.
- The price is on the high side.
Bottom Line
This intelligent cleaner is a 4WD powerhouse that cleans every surface of an in-ground pool. If you want a robot that removes every speck of debris, this one is for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which pool robot is the best?
There is a number of high-quality pool robots available on the market. As you can see from this post, choosing the best pool robot can depend on the type of pool you have, how big it is, your budget, and the number of bells and whistles that you’re looking for.
Based on my personal experience, I think the best pool cleaner is the Dolphin Nautilus CC. I absolutely love it. But keep in mind, that the Nautilus CC is really geared for in-ground pools. Overall, I think Dolphin is the leader when it comes to pool robot technology. They have additional products for above-ground pools as well.
What features should I look for in a robotic cleaner?
The most important features to consider before purchasing a new robotic cleaner are:
- Cleaning power
- Filtering capacity
- Range
- WiFi capabilities
Whichever model you choose, it should be able to clean all the debris covering the floor, walls, and waterline. If you want to automate the entire task, having a WiFi connected robot will streamline daily or weekly cleanings for you.
Is there a difference between an in-ground and above-ground robotic cleaner?
Yes! Some cleaners are better suited for in-ground pools while others are best suited for above-ground pools or even both. Make sure to check out the product description of your model for the best results.
Can I leave my robotic pool vacuum in the water all the time?
Pool robots are not intended to be in the pool at all times. The preset schedules make it easy for the cleaner to start and finish running whenever you want. Leaving it in at all times can increase harmful exposure to corrosive chemicals in the water that can break it prematurely. For more information on why you shouldn’t leave your pool robot in the pool, click here.
Why should I invest in a robotic pool vacuum?
There are a few benefits you can enjoy with any robot cleaner:
- Shorter cleaning time
- Less involvement in the process
- Less debris remaining after a cleaning
- Automated features
Each vacuum has special features and a different price point to match, but they all help get the job done for you. Investing in a robotic cleaner means less time cleaning the pool and more time enjoying the sparkling fresh water. They even get to the hard to reach places. All you have to do is set it up and they get the job done for you.
How Does a Robotic Pool Cleaner Work?
Ever wonder how these nifty little pool robot cleaners do their job? Well, it’s actually quite simple.
Most robotic pool cleaners work by using a motor to drive a set of tracks along the bottom and sides of the pool. The tracks are lined with bristles or brushes that help to loosen dirt and debris.
At the same time, a suction device collects the debris and deposits it into a filter bag or canister.
Some models also feature rotating brushes that provide a deeper clean.
Regardless of the type of brushes, all models rely on the suction power of the motor to move debris through the system and keep it from clogging the brush head.
Conclusion
Investing in the right pool cleaner for your needs is essential in keeping the water safe and pristine. And with all the various features, you’ll have to decide which ones are most important to you.
No matter how difficult it is to choose, the model with the right features for every home and budget is out there. Use this guide to find your favorite cleaning tool so that you can start the summer right with a brand new robotic cleaner that will make your pool look fresh all season long.
About the Author
Stefan Schulz is the founder and owner of PV Pool Cleaner. He spent his college years working at Niagara Pools and Spas, one of the largest Swimming Pool and Hot Tub Dealers in the Eastern United States.
Today, he utilizes his background, experience as a pool owner, and the resources of his digital marketing agency, Orpical Group, to generate informative and engaging content for pool owners everywhere.