I think you’ll agree with me when I say that cleaning a pool can be hard work.
Or is it?
Well, it turns out that there is a truly elegant solution to your cleaning needs.
You can ease the burden of cleaning the pool by using a robotic pool cleaner.
So, with that in mind, what is the best robotic cleaner on the market?
In this post, we will consider the best options available on the market adapted to your needs from consumer reports that we have researched.
Why Buy a Robotic Cleaner?
A Robotic cleaner is much better than other types of automatic pool cleaners because you don’t have to attach them to your pool. It is extremely easy to use, as all you have to do is install it properly and then plug it in to see it work efficiently.
Here are some reasons why a robotic cleaner is the best buy for inground pools.
- These cleaners are extremely versatile and efficient, as they can tackle all types of debris, big or small. You can use them on any type of pool surface; in fact, they are quite suitable for tiled pools as well as vinyl pools. A built-in filtration system adds to its effectiveness.
- These cleaners are extremely environmentally friendly, as they don’t release any chemical or toxin while working. Your pool stays in a perfect condition and you never have to worry about any health issues.
- These pool cleaners don’t require serious maintenance; in fact, all you have to do is empty the filter bag, rinse it, and you’re ready to use your cleaner again.
- These robotic cleaners don’t rely on your pool’s filtration system or pumps, which means they are extremely energy efficient. They work fast and finish the task in a timely manner.
Overall, robotic cleaners are extremely useful and efficient, but it is worth mentioning that they can be quite expensive, especially compared to the other types of automatic pool cleaners. The price can go up considerably if you need a cleaner for vinyl pools. To prevent tangled cables, you have to buy models with a swivel cord, which may cost a little more.
Top 10 Robotic Pool Cleaners to Buy
What are the best robotic pool cleaners on the market? It is a common question to ask, but the answer depends on your unique needs and pool type. Here are some of the most popular options for you to consider:
1. Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus
Are you looking for a robotic pool cleaner that offers excellent value for money because of the performance and overall features, then you cannot go wrong with the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus. Although it isn’t cheap, this unit is worth every dollar that you spend because you will get thorough cleaning action.
The robot scrubs all the parts of the pool, from the walls to the floors. The product is great for pools of different depths up to 50 feet. And although the Nautilus CC Plus looks slow, you will get quick cleaning action as it cleans up a 50 feet pool in around two hours.
There are other features other than the speed. For example, you can schedule the robot to clean whenever you want, ranging from daily cleaning to every two or three days. The cleaning performance is partly due to the presence of dual-scrubbing brushes and dual top-load filters that capture debris in the pool.
Energy efficiency is an important factor when choosing a robotic cleaner for large pools, and we are pleased that this unit is several times more efficient than your regular cleaners.
Overall, the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is a good solution for whoever is tired of manually cleaning their pool. And since you can get the unit for under $1000, you get excellent value for the price.
Pros:
- Energy efficient
- Fast cleaning
- Easy to use
- Two-year warranty
Cons:
- Requires multiple cycles
2. Dolphin Nautilus CC
Where the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus catered for relatively large pools, the Dolphin Nautilus CC, on the other hand, is designed for above ground pool and in-ground pools with smaller dimensions. The unit is ideal for pools up to 33 feet. The unit also is available for under $800. Other than that, it offers similar performance to the CC Plus.
To that end, this model scrubs away the grime and dirt on all parts of the pool, including the pool walls and floors. One notable feature of this unit is a large capacity top load filter basket. With this feature, the model can trap in a large amount of debris like leaves and similar things.
The Dolphin Nautilus CC is a compact little fellow that is easy to put to work without having any specialized skills or hardware.
Since the unit does not need a pool pump or filter to help clean the pool, it is far more energy-efficient than typical cleaners on the market. You enjoy plenty of versatility as well since the robot can be programmed to clean every day or every three days, depending on your preference.
Spend more time on the things that matter and allow the Dolphin Nautilus CC to take care of cleaning the pool for you.
Pros:
- Great value for money
- Compact
- Easy to set up
- Very energy efficient
Cons:
- Frequent cord entanglement
3. Dolphin Triton PS
The Dolphin Triton PS is the best robotic pool cleaner if you have a tree or plant near your pool. If you have a tree near the pool, a frequent complaint would be the dropping of leaves into the pool. Well, with the Dolphin Triton PS, you have a robot cleaner that will get rid of all that, and more, without having you lift a finger.
The unit is special because it has an extra-large filter basket that can accommodate all those pesky dead leaves and similar types of debris. Thus, the model is excellent for leaves.
Aside from that, this unit is capable of cleaning pols of sizes up to 500 feet. And in cleaning such large pools, the robot will clean all parts – from the floors to the waterline and the walls. All of these can be accomplished in just two hours. If that is too slow for you, there is the ‘Quick’ mode that speeds up performance to one hour!
As with the best models on the market, you can schedule the Dolphin Triton PS. Another feature that makes this an excellent unit is the strong brushes that spin faster than those in regular cleaners.
Pros:
- Extra-large filter basket
- Best for leaves
- ‘Quick’ Mode
Cons:
- Poor fine material pickup
4. PAXCESS Pool Cleaner
Where some of the others we have reviewed come with cords that sometimes entangle, the PAXCESS Cleaner is a cordless option. The robot cleaner has a rechargeable battery that gives more than one hour of cleaning on a full charge. To keep the battery safe, the product has a waterproof design.
One of the more impressive things about this robot is the construction. The unit is built sturdily, and as long as you maintain properly, you will get years of good service from the model. Although the unit is not lightweight, the weight is manageable and ensures easy handling during setup and maintenance.
This robot also gives you several cleaning durations, unlike other robots that have a fixed cleaning duration.
The wheels at the bottom of the robotic cleaner let it move over different surfaces stably and quickly.
All of the features above are excellent, and the cleaning performance offers even more reasons to think about getting this robot. Overall, the excellent cleaning performance, beautiful and practical design, and ease of use make the PAXCESS Cleaner an affordable choice under $600 for any dirty pool that needs a quick cleaning.
Pros:
- Fast operation
- Great cleaning performance
- Nice design
- Cordless
Cons:
- Limited runtime
5. Dolphin E10 Pool Cleaner
If you have an above ground pool and are looking for a reliable, affordable, and effective robot cleaner, then the Dolphin E10 is just for you. This robot does not scrub walls, which limits the ability to work in in-ground swimming pools, but for an above ground pool, you can expect satisfying performance.
The main tool for cleaning here is the brush installed in the front. This might not look like much, but in use, the brush spins twice as quickly as those found in standard cleaners. There is also a fine filter that will trap any of the debris that is found in the pool. Therefore, you can say goodbye to the leaves and insects in your pool. It is also one of the best for fine dust.
The CleverClean navigation technology found in the Dolphin E10 results in an efficient robot cleaner that scans the pool and picks the best route for cleaning. Because of this technology, this robot can clean pools up to 30 feet long in less than two hours.
Although this robot cleaner does not have a cycle timer or scheduler, the single button operation means that you will find the appliance easy to use.
Pros:
- Good cleaning performance
- Easy to use
- Large filter basket
Cons:
- Cable entanglement
6. Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Dolphin Premier might be costly, but it is hands down one of the best robotic pool cleaners that money can buy.
One feature that sets this robot apart from several others on the market is the filtration system. The robot has one of the most powerful filtration systems in any pool cleaner.
The filtration system consists of a trio of filter options. First, there are the bottom load fine filters, then the ultra-fine cartridge filters, and lastly the fine filter bag. These combine to get rid of debris and other contaminants. This model is one of the best for algae in the pool.
The navigation system is also impressive and makes for a cleaner that can handle oddly shaped pools.
The scheduling option is versatile because you can choose when you want the pool to work – daily, every two days, or on the third day. These automatic cleaning cycles can also be swapped with manual control.
When choosing a robot cleaner, one of the important features to look out for is energy usage. Well, the Dolphin Premier shines in this regard. The model has DC motors that use very little energy despite powerful and fast performance. Therefore, the robot cleans out a 50 feet pool in around 3 hours.
Overall, this is an excellent robotic cleaner that performs better than most others for large debris.
Pros:
- Excellent filtration system
- Climbs over all obstacles
- Easy to handle
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with accessories
- The instruction manual is hard to understand
7. OT QOMOTOP Pool Cleaner
Are you looking for a robotic pool cleaner for your above ground and in-ground pools for under $500 ? Then the OT QOMOTOP Pool Cleaner is an excellent and affordable choice.
Although this is from a little-known brand, the performance and features are impressive. First, it is a cordless model. Therefore, you do not have to worry about the cord tangling after some time.
As a cordless option, the robotic cleaner has a rechargeable 5000 mAh battery that delivers up to 90 minutes of non-stop use underwater. To achieve a full charge, the unit has to be plugged in for up to six hours. To get the best out of the limited runtime, the model has programmable cleaning cycles that you can choose from.
Aside from the cordless design, another pleasant feature is the large suction doors integrated with the bottom brush that improves the cleaning ability.
The cleaner offers a decent area of operation as you can use the robot in cleaning up to 860 square feet and 6.6 feet pool depth.
Pros:
- Easy to maintain
- Convenient use
- Excellent for small pools
- Cordless
Cons:
- Slow cleaning performance
8. Intex Automatic Pool Cleaner
Are you looking for a robotic cleaner for sand, for pebble tec, and for your above ground pool? Then the performance of the Intex Automatic Pool Cleaner will suit you right to the ground.
This automatic cleaner is connected to the inlet of an Intex pool and serves to remove most of the impurities in the water. The design is compact and easy to handle. You find four plastic wheels at the base of the cleaner, and these help the unit move across the floor and any obstacles at the bottom of the pool.
Since this is a special type of cleaner, it isn’t compatible with all pools. First, the pool has to be an Intex pool. If you want to use the cleaner with other pools, you would have to buy an adapter. The next requirement is that you use it in conjunction with a 1200 GPH -3500 GPH filter pump.
If these requirements are satisfied, then you will enjoy the full benefits of the unit.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Compact design
- Good cleaning performance
- Easy to set up
Cons:
- Not for non-Intex pools
- Only for small pools
9. DOLPHIN Sigma Cleaner
Right out of the box, you will likely fall in love with the beautiful, futuristic appearance of the DOLPHIN Sigma. The unit is geared for comfort, and that is seen in the fact that you don’t have to connect pumps or fittings to get started. All the hardware required for working has already come pre-installed in the robot cleaner.
There are several similarities with some of the best models on the market. For example, the unit has a top-loading cartridge filter to help get rid of debris. And while the model is corded, there is an anti-tangle swivel that reduces the stress of untangling the cable.
Additionally, the DOLPHIN Sigma has a weekly scheduler and will avoid obstacles or climb over them easily.
This model is quite powerful because you will find three powerful motors under the hood. Therefore, the cleaner will care for a 50 feet pool with impressive ease.
One notable feature is the compatibility with the MyDolphin smartphone app. With this app, you can control your robotic cleaner, set schedules, and so on.
Overall, this is arguably the most powerful robotic cleaner out of all the cleaners from the manufacturer. Although expensive, DOLPHIN Sigma is worth the price.
Pros:
- Powerful
- Bluetooth and App connectivity
- Gyroscopic navigation
Cons:
- Costly
10. Polaris F9350 Sport Robotic In-Ground Pool Cleaner
If you have an in-ground pool, you will definitely want a cleaner for the floor, for the walls, and even for steps. You can find this type of cleaner in the Polaris F9350. This unit is just the right guy for the tough task. One major advantage of the Polaris F9350 is the ability to work across different surfaces. Therefore, the model is great for vinyl pool, for tiled pools, for kidney shaped pools, for fiberglass pools, and so on.
The appearance looks like something right out of a sci-fi movie, and many users have remarked on how much they love the futuristic design. The design is not all for show, though, because the unit is fitted with parts that will give excellent cleaning performance. There is a large filter canister that helps to easily remove debris in the pool.
The wheels are Aqua-Tax tires which help the cleaner to move across different surfaces and the Sensor Technology provides some of the best navigation functionality on the market right now.
Whether the debris is under the stairs or in a tight corner, you can rest assured that this model will trap all of the debris.
If you want a near-perfect robotic cleaner to keep your in-ground pool clean and spotless, then this is the option to choose.
Pros:
- Lovely design
- Durable
- Powerful performance
- Great navigation technology
Cons:
- Remote is hard to use
Know the Type of Pool Before Buying a Robotic Cleaner
When you want to invest in a robotic pool cleaner, it is important to consider your pool type first. Some robotic cleaners are designed to handle only a few specific types of pool surfaces – they may be designed for tiled pools only. However, other, high-end, cleaners can deal with any pool surface, including the slippery tile of a fiberglass pool.
To find a suitable cleaner, pay attention to the softness of the PVA brush. Opt for a soft super grip brush when you have a fiberglass pool, but you can opt for a cleaner with rubber PVC brushes for most pool surfaces though.
Along with the surface, you need to consider the size of your pool as well. It is important because your robotic cleaner will come with a fix cable length, so you need to ensure that it is suitable for the size of your pool. There is no point in buying a cleaner that cannot reach the furthest sides of your pool.
Similarly, don’t buy a cleaner with extra cable if you have a smaller pool because it increases the risk of tangling, which prevents the cleaner from moving forward. So, have an idea about the length of the cable that will work for your pool and then proceed with a buying decision.
Know What You Want Your Robotic Cleaner to Do
Along with paying attention to the size and type of your pool, you need to consider what you’d want your cleaner to do. For instance, you can find a robotic cleaner that vacuums the pool floor and does nothing to clean the walls. They usually have fixed brushes and cost less.
You may want to look for a different robotic cleaner if you want it to clean the floor as well as the lower wall. These cleaners feature active scrubbing brushes and are capable of climbing the walls to some extent.
You may need to invest in a different type of robotic cleaner if you want it to clean the floor as well as the wall, cove, and waterline. These cleaners have several additional features that enable them to remove debris from the water.
What it means that you should know in advance if you need a vacuum that does fixed brush cleaning, which is more suitable for smaller in-ground pools, or you need an advanced cleaner with additional features and ability to climb the walls.
Features to Check before Buying a Robotic Cleaner
With a variety of robotic cleaners available on the market, it is natural to feel confused. However, you should check the following features to make the right buying decision.
Lightweight
Always pay attention to the overall weight of the cleaner before finalizing a buying decision. Many people make a mistake and feel more concerned about the size of the cleaner. Instead, they should be considering the weight before even thinking about the size. Of course, you’ll need a bigger cleaner for a large inground pool, but ensure that it is not too heavy to get in and out of the pool all by yourself.
Smart Scanning System
Even when you opt for a larger robotic cleaner, it will work fine if it comes with a smart scanning system. Many people think that they have to shell out a lot of money to buy a unit with some smart scanning options, but that is no longer the case. Many brands are now offering units with smart software and sensors to map out the size and shape of the pool.
When your cleaner can get a feel for the size and shape of your pool, it can work efficiently, covering every inch of the pool and delivering the best performance. You just cannot overlook this feature if you want to buy an automatic cleaner for your “uniquely” shaped pool.
Four-Wheel-Drive Wheels
Coupled with a smart scanning system, a unit with four-wheel-drive can move around with utmost ease and deliver the best cleaning performance. Ensure that the wheels are wide and made of high quality rubber to handle bumps with ease.
You should be especially careful about this feature if you’re buying an automatic cleaner for tiled pools with a very slippery surface. It will also work when you need a unit for algae that adds to the slipperiness of the pool floor.
Scrubbing Brushes
Checking the quality of scrubbing brushes is an equally important thing to do, as it will have a direct impact on the performance of the unit. Gone are the days when scrubbing brushes were limited to premium in-ground pool cleaners, as many brands now have these featured on cheaper models too.
High quality scrubbing brushes will work with the suction system and remove any dirt or algae present in your pool. Just keep in mind that though cheaper models now have scrubbing brushes, but they are usually single spinning brushes. For larger pools, you may want to invest in a unit with a dual brush system, but that is going to cost you more.
Programmable Timer
If you don’t buy a cleaner with a programmable timer, there is no point in buying one, as it is never going to make your life easier. With a programmable timer, you don’t have to go out every time you want to turn it on.
Top quality robotic cleaners have programmable timers that allow you to set everything and then forget about turning the cleaner on. Just be sure to empty the bag and clean it once in a while to keep your automatic cleaner work efficiently.
In addition to these features, you may want to buy a robotic cleaner with power washing jets that help in case your pool has fine silt, dirt particles and sand. Similarly, a unit with a good filtration system is going to perform better, so you should opt for the one with a lower micron value. And finally, ensure that you put your money on a durable robotic pool cleaner, which is energy efficient as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often to run a robotic pool cleaner?
If you swim often in it, you should run the robot pool cleaner every day. If you swim infrequently, then running it once every week or bi-weekly is fine. If you have a pool cover, then you can run the robot once a month.
2. What is a robotic pool cleaner?
This is a cleaner that uses an electric motor to create suction and power that propels it inside a pool. It sucks in the debris and retains it until the debris container is emptied.
3. What is the best robotic pool cleaner for above ground pools?
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is the best pool cleaner for above ground pools. The model offers powerful cleaning performance to keep your pool sparkling.
4. Who makes the best robotic pool cleaner?
There are many manufacturers of robotic pool cleaners on the market, but the Dolphin brand makes the best models across categories.
5. What is the best robotic in-ground pool cleaner?
If you have an in-ground pool, the Polaris F9350 Sport cleaner is the best for such a pool. It has a good design, and more importantly, removes debris under stairs and tight corners.
Conclusion
Choosing the best rated robotic pool cleaners can be a challenge, but the ten best-rated pool cleaners that we have considered in this post will help you narrow your choices to the model that will meet your requirements. Happy cleaning!