November 2023
Robotic Pool Cleaners: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of robotic pool cleaners rankings posted by key online experts, as of November 2023.
Summary
On 9 Nov 2023, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 84 pool cleaner endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
45 pool cleaners were endorsed in total, only 18 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)
As of 9 Nov 2023, Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed pool cleaner with 9 expert endorsements. 6 experts out of 9 recommended it as the '#1 pool cleaner' this month.
Brand breakdown
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Maytronics: 14 pool cleaners
(#1 is Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus)
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Zodiac: 6 pool cleaners
(#1 is Polaris F9550)
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Hayward: 5 pool cleaners
(#1 is Hayward SharkVac XL)
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Aquabot: 3 pool cleaners
(#1 is Aquabot Breeze IQ)
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Aiper: 3 pool cleaners
(#1 is Aiper Seagull SE)
Price breakdown
At a glance - November Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Pool Cleaner |
Bob Vila
|
Cleanup Expert
|
Pool Research
|
River Pools
|
SteamCleanerMaster
|
Gadget Review
|
reviewed.usatoday.com
|
Spy
|
The Spruce
|
Robotic Pool Cleaners
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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1
|
- | Check price |
Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is a reliable and efficient robotic pool cleaner that can clean all types of debris, equipped with CleverClean technology, dual-cyclonic suction, and dual scrubbing brushes, making it easy to maintain and energy-efficient.
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1
|
-
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1
|
6
|
1
|
1
|
2
|
1
|
1
|
3
|
|
2
|
- | $1299 |
Dolphin Premier 2018
The Dolphin Premier 2018 robotic pool cleaner is a smart, efficient, and durable option that can handle any type of debris and pool shape, with a filtration system that captures debris of different sizes and a non-prorated three-year warranty.
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-
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2
|
-
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5
|
3
|
3
|
1
|
-
|
-
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4
|
|
3
|
- | $1199 |
Polaris F9550
The Polaris F9550 Sport Robotic Pool Cleaner is a reliable and efficient cleaning tool for in-ground pools up to 60 ft in length, featuring a serpentine-like cleaning pattern, oscillating brushes, and Proprietary Vortex Vacuum Technology.
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-
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-
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3
|
4
|
-
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2
|
-
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-
|
-
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1
|
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4
|
- | $559 |
Dolphin Escape
The Dolphin Escape robotic pool cleaner is a highly efficient and effective cleaning solution for pool owners, with a high-capacity filter cartridge, durable design, and energy-efficient technology.
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4
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13
|
-
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-
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-
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5
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
7
|
|
5
|
- | $1499 |
Dolphin Sigma
The Dolphin Sigma robotic pool cleaner is a highly efficient and effective cleaning solution for pool owners, with dual scrubbing brushes, SmartNav 3.0 scanning and coverage technology, a dual high-capacity filter system, and energy-efficient construction, all backed by a 36-month limited warranty.
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-
|
7
|
-
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-
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2
|
-
|
-
|
9
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-
|
5
|
|
6
|
- | $1499 |
Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme is a reliable and efficient robotic pool cleaner with a multi-cartridge filtration system, intuitive smartphone app, and energy-efficient design, making it an excellent choice for pool owners who want a thorough and hassle-free cleaning experience.
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-
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1
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-
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-
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-
|
-
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-
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-
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4
|
-
|
|
7
|
- | $499 |
Dolphin E10
The Dolphin E10 robotic pool cleaner is an efficient and easy-to-use cleaning solution for small to medium-sized pools, featuring an active scrubbing brush, CleverClean navigation system, and energy-saving scanning software.
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-
|
10
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-
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1
|
-
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-
|
-
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-
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-
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-
|
|
8
|
- | $900 |
Dolphin Triton PS
The Dolphin Triton PS robotic pool cleaner is a highly efficient and effective cleaning machine that is designed to clean floors, walls, and waterlines of pools up to 50 feet in length, with advanced navigation technology, dual scrubbing brushes, and superior filtration capabilities.
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-
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4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
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8
|
-
|
8
|
|
9
|
- | Check price |
Aquabot Breeze IQ
The Aquabot Breeze IQ robotic pool cleaner is an efficient and effective cleaning solution for in-ground swimming pools up to 50 ft, featuring all-terrain PVC scrubbing brushes, smart navigation algorithm, and dual filtration system.
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-
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16
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4
|
-
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5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
10
|
- | $70 |
Paxcess Cordless
The Paxcess Cordless Automatic Pool Cleaner is a powerful and efficient device that uses smart navigation to thoroughly clean pool floors and filter water for debris, making it a reliable and hassle-free option for pool owners.
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3
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15
|
-
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-
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-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
13
|
|
11
|
- | Check price |
OT QOMOTOP HJ1103J
The OT QOMOTOP HJ1103J robotic pool cleaner is a reliable and efficient option for smaller in-ground pools, with a double filtration system and energy-saving features, but may have reliability issues with the belt.
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-
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-
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-
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2
|
-
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-
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-
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2
|
-
|
-
|
|
12
|
- | $180 |
Aiper Seagull SE
The Aiper Seagull SE robotic pool cleaner is highly praised for its cleaning performance, filtration system, durability, ease of use, warranty coverage, and energy efficiency, making it a great investment for flat-bottomed pools.
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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3
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-
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2
|
-
|
|
13
|
- | $1449 |
Polaris VRX iQ+
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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6
|
-
|
|
14
|
- | $1180 |
Dolphin Triton PS Plus
The Dolphin Triton PS Plus robotic pool cleaner is a highly efficient and effective cleaning machine that is capable of cleaning all types of debris, including leaves, acorns, twigs, and branches, making it an excellent choice for pool owners who want a thorough and efficient cleaning performance.
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-
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-
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2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
|
15
|
- | $1219 |
Hayward SharkVac XL
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-
|
-
|
5
|
-
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6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
16
|
- | Check price |
Aiper Seagull Pro
The Aiper Seagull Pro is a powerful and efficient robotic pool cleaner with a smart navigation system, efficient filtration, and user-friendly design, making it a reliable and cost-effective option for pool owners.
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
|
17
|
- | $1097 |
Dolphin Quantum
The Dolphin Quantum robotic pool cleaner is a highly efficient and versatile cleaning solution for pool owners, with excellent cleaning capabilities, SmartNav 2.0 technology, a top-loading filtration system, and high energy efficiency.
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-
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8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
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-
|
-
|
6
|
|
18
|
- | Check price |
Pentair Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830
The Pentair Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830 is an efficient and eco-friendly robotic pool cleaner that can handle a wide range of cleaning needs, making it a great investment for pool owners.
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-
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-
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6
|
-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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12
|
We ranked Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus #1 in November 2023 because:
- 9 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
- Out of those, 6 experts ranked Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus as #1.
Bob Vila
Best overall
|
Capable of climbing walls
Large filtration system is suitable for sticks and leaves
Can be used on all pool surface types
Schedule cleaning weekly
|
Does not have smartphone capabilities
May become stuck on steps
Power supply is water-resistant but not waterproof
|
Pool Research
Best Overall Robotic Pool Cleaner
|
Energy-efficient cleaner
Anti-swivel cable helps prevent tangles
Flexible scheduling times
High suction rate of 4500 GPH
|
Does not clean stairs or waterline
Cannot be connected to a smartphone or wi-fi
Some manufacturing concerns
|
SteamCleanerMaster
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You can program the machine to automatically clean your pool on a schedule that works for you.
It has dual scrubbing brushes to loosen and remove dirt and grime from the floor and walls of your pool.
The tangle-free swivel cable lets the machine work without worry of the cord getting caught or tangled.
|
It doesn’t do a good job cleaning some stair types.
|
Gadget Review
Top Pick
|
Best lightweight
Tangle-free cord
Waterline cleaning functionality
|
No caddy included
Instruction manual hard to understand
No cleaning timer
|
reviewed.usatoday.com
|
Great suction
Very easy to set up
|
Expensive
Heavy and hard to store
|
The Spruce
Best Overall
|
Suitable for pools up to 50 feet
Tangle-free cable
Cleans pools in two hours
Built-in weekly timer
Dual filters
|
Power supply isn’t waterproof
|
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Best Robotic Pool Cleaner for Inground Pools
|
 Powerful robotic cleaner for in-ground pools.
Anti-tangle swivel cable.
Fine and ultrafine filters.
Dual scrubbing brushes.
Weekly scheduler.
|
A bit heavy.
Not suitable for budget shoppers.
|
We ranked Dolphin Premier 2018 #2 in November 2023 because:
- 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Dolphin Premier 2018 as #1.
Cleanup Expert
Best Waterline Cleaner
|
Because of the Premier’s unrivaled ability to climb walls, it’s able to accomplish what many pool cleaning robots cannot–stick its tiny electronic nose out of the water to get right at that waterline.
The engineers at Maytronics created the world’s first robotic pool cleaner with onboard low voltage motors. And with the entire system using only 180 watts of power, you’ll save a TON of money on your electric bill.
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The manufacturer says you can clean out the filter bag by hosing it out. It turns out it’s a real PAIN to get it clean this way because it takes too long. Throw it in the washer instead.
Its patented 360° anti-tangle swivel is supposed to prevent it from ever getting knotted up in its own cord. However, even with this technology, it occasionally happens.
|
SteamCleanerMaster
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The dual scrubbing brushes work to remove dirt from the floor, walls, and waterline of your pool.
It will analyze your pool to determine the best route and method to ensure a thorough cleaning.
The anti-tangle swivel cable prevents a cord from getting tangled up or caught and lets the cleaner move easily around the pool.
|
The cleaner is a bit heavy and may be challenging to remove from the bottom of your pool.
|
Gadget Review
Best for In-Ground Pools
|
Advanced navigation algorithm
Extra-long warranty
Dual scrubbing brushes
|
Long cleaning time
Remote doesn’t work as well
Expensive
|
reviewed.usatoday.com
|
Wall-climbing capabilities
Optional remote control
3 filtration options
|
Pretty expensive
|
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Most Powerful Robotic Pool Cleaner for Residential Pools
|
A same proven cleaning system as the Dolphin Nautilus: treads, dual brushes, strong vacuum, etc.
Intelligent navigation with a short cleaning cycle
Advanced features: weekly timer, remote control, and filter-full indicator
Four types of filter media clean a wider range of debris
Excellent cleaning performance
|
Included instructions are not the best
This unit is heavy
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Methodology: combine opinions of key experts
Identify Experts
We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend robotic pool cleaners.
Capture Rankings
For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of robotic pool cleaners, it must be updated in the last 9 months.
Aggregate Rankings
We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking
Experts chosen for November 2023 ranking
Bob Vila
Cleanup Expert
Pool Research
River Pools
SteamCleanerMaster
Gadget Review
reviewed.usatoday.com
Spy
The Spruce
Robotic Pool Cleaners
We ranked Polaris F9550 #3 in November 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Polaris F9550 as #1.
Pool Research
Best for Pools with Tight Corners
|
Excellent at sharp corners
Four-wheel drive system provides outstanding mobility
Tangle-free cable system works well
Waterline-only cleaning cycle
|
Heavier than most of the competition
More expensive than most other cleaners
|
Gadget Review
Honorable Mention
|
Best 4 wheel drive
Super affordable
Great for hard-to-reach spots
|
Struggles with heavier debris
Longer cleaning time
No swivel cord
|
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Best Robotic Pool Cleaner for Large Pools
|
Includes caddy
Excellent cleaning performance
Does not fall from sides or stairs
Works in all pool types regardless of shape or type of surface
Targeted cleaning options
The remote control works well
Weekly programmable timer
Full bin indicator
|
Pricey
A bit heavy (the automatic lift system eliminates most of the hassle, though)
|
We ranked Dolphin Escape #4 in November 2023 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Bob Vila
Best for Above-gound
|
Quick 1.5-hour cleaning cycle
Remote-start function
Can be used on all pool surface types, including gunite or plaster pools
|
Cannot climb pool walls
Electrical adapter is not waterproof
Somewhat difficult to remove from the pool if it stops mid-cycle in the center
|
Cleanup Expert
Most Versatile
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The hypergrip track works flawlessly with the digital mapping technology. The end result? Faster and more efficient cleaning.
What’s more, it uses 90% less power than older types of pool cleaning robots. Maytronics accomplished this monumental feat by using an innovative low voltage DC motor. The entire system only requires around 180 watts of power.
Think of how much money you’ll save!
|
Unfortunately, this unit only has a one-year warranty. If your pool dips or has areas lower than the rest of the floor, your little robot friend has a tendency to pop wheelies. When it does this, the filter basket can pop out. Then, all the debris your guy painstakingly collected will be unceremoniously dumped back into the pool.
The cord doesn’t seem to be quite long enough for most pools.
|
Gadget Review
Best Value
|
Best for above ground pools
Doesn’t need a pool pump to run
Tackles large debris with ease
|
Can’t clean pool walls
Doesn’t include a cleaning timer
No remote control
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The Spruce
Best for Above-Ground Pools
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Suitable for pools up to 30 feet
Plug-and-play operation
Compact and lightweight
Top-load filter easy to empty and rinse
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Can't climb walls
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Robotic Pool Cleaners
Best Above Ground Robotic Pool Cleaner
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Lightweight
Cleans leaves, sand and most other kinds of debris
Can climb walls (uncommon in above-ground cleaners)
Works in all types of above ground pools, including vinyl
Large filter cartridge
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No ultra-fine filter included (can buy separately)
No swivel cord
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We ranked Dolphin Sigma #5 in November 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Cleanup Expert
Most innovative
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Its gyroscopically-enabled navigation system lets the robot know, with pinpoint precision, where to go next. This ensures that every square inch of your pool is scrubbed sparkling clean. With the extraordinary control this gyroscope gives your mechanical assistant, he won’t wobble or topple over when attempting to scale a wall.
Besides being the planet’s first pool robot with a gyroscope, it’s also the first one with three motors.
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There appears to be a glitch in some units where the robot indicates it’s actively cleaning when it actually isn’t. If this malfunction happens, usually it’s when users activate the automatic mode. For some people, even the app sometimes displays this wildly inaccurate information.
The Sigma also doesn’t do well with drains and tends to get hung up on them.
|
SteamCleanerMaster
|
The filter is designed to be easy to clean.
You can pair the cleaner with your smartphone to schedule cleanings and keep track of the progress of a cleaning.
This model features a gyroscope mobility system for cleaning stairs and walls.
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If your pool frequently is filled with leaves and other large droppings, this cleaner may get clogged more frequently.
|
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Best Smartphone-Connected Robotic Pool Cleaner
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Can handle extra-large in-ground pools
Powerful cleaning performance
Convenient Bluetooth control via an app
Smart navigation reduces cleaning times and saves energy
Independent tracks provide better coverage in tight corners
|
Expensive
Bluetooth app does not always work
|
We ranked Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme #6 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme as #1.
Cleanup Expert
Best Overall Functionality
|
At 1.5 hours, this machine has one of the fastest cleaning times of any pool robot on the planet. Unlike other models, it can scale the walls of your pool to get at the waterline. And, it’ll continue to relentlessly scour away until every stain, blemish, and discoloration that detracts from the visual allure of your pool is banished forever.
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The Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme doesn’t come with a caddy. You think you’d get one with a robotic cleaner that costs this much! You also don’t get a remote control. That’s probably okay, because with the MyDolphin app, you can do everything a controller does.
Like most other robots, it isn’t very good at climbing stairs.
|
The Spruce
Best Splurge
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Remote steering
Anti-tangle cable
Cleans walls and waterline
Three cleaning levels
|
Cannot clean steps
Misses some spots during automatic cleaning cycles
|
We ranked Dolphin E10 #7 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Dolphin E10 as #1.
Cleanup Expert
Best for Above Ground Pools
|
It has a huge filter basket, so it’ll catch lots of floating debris before it turns your pool into an eyesore. This Ultra Fine Filter Basket captures even tiny sand grains. There’s a simple push latch at the top of the unit to get at the filter.
The filter also has an easy-to-open hinged bottom. Just push the button, and the dirt falls right out.
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The warranty is only good for two years. After the first year, it only covers plastic parts. Also, you have to purchase the Ultra Fine Basket separately. Because the cord doesn’t have an anti-tangle swivel, it sometimes gets all twisted around the robot.
Edges are inconsistently cleaned because it seems as though the robot spends most of its time crisscrossing the middle.
|
We ranked Dolphin Triton PS #8 in November 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Cleanup Expert
Best Range of Mobility
|
At only 16.5 pounds, this is one of the lightest of all pool robots. It also has advanced scanning functionality. This means it can make sure every single inch of your pool surfaces are vigorously scrubbed clean of all contaminants.
Using the Triton PS will extend the life of your pool’s filtration system, because the robot does some of the dirty work it used to exclusively do.
|
The robot doesn’t seem to do a good job cleaning curvy areas. So, if you have a custom-shaped pool with lots of meandering contours or corners, you might want to think about getting something else.
The automatic weekly scheduling feature (like with some other models) doesn’t appear to make a whole lot of sense. That’s because the manufacturer advises that you should take the unit out of the pool when you’re not using it.
|
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Best Value Dolphin Robotic Pool Cleaner
|
Good value for money.
Cleans large pools up to 50ft.
Dual scrubbing brushes.
Comes with fine and ultra-fine filters.
Full pool coverage – floor, walls, and waterline.
|
No option to select cleaning cycles.
Struggles to clean curvy areas of the pool.
|
We ranked Aquabot Breeze IQ #9 in November 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Cleanup Expert
Best Filtration
|
Its impressively energetic dual scrubbers and powerful suction mean you’ll be able to use fewer potentially toxic pool chemicals. With the superior Aquabot swivel technology at your command, you’ll never have to worry about the unit getting tangled up in its own cord.
Its durable PVC scrubbing brushes are safe for all surfaces—even vinyl lined pools. It’s low wattage motors only cost about five cents an hour to run.
|
Sometimes the robot has difficulty climbing up to the waterline. The manufacturer suggests adjusting the handle (which helps the unit to float) when this happens. This should fix the problem.
The unit’s super-fine filters will help keep your pool water radiantly clean at all times. However, they need to be replaced more often than regular filters.
|
Pool Research
Best for Small Debris
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Capable of filtering things as small as bacteria
Large, high-capacity baskets
Fewer manufacturing defects than many competitors
Works on all standard pool materials
Great for above ground pools
|
Relatively heavy
No remote control options
Filters are fragile
|
SteamCleanerMaster
|
The filter baskets work together with the powerful pump to filter down to two microns.
You can use this product to clean pools with any surface type.
The 60-foot swivel cable allows the cleaner to clean your pool without worrying about a cord getting caught to tangled.
|
You cannot program this model to clean on a set schedule.
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We ranked Paxcess Cordless #10 in November 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Bob Vila
Best Bang for the Buck
|
Cordless functionality improves movement
Reduced risk of accidental electrocution with battery
Automatically docks poolside when the battery is low
Safe for all pool types
|
Takes 4 to 6 hours to charge
Only capable of climbing 15-degree slopes
Because of its long charging time, it’s best for smaller pools
|
Cleanup Expert
Most hassle-free unit
|
You’ll be ecstatic when you find out there are no cloth bags to clean with this exceptional machine. Instead, there’s a filter tray with a filtration precision of up to 180 µm. Simply pop the tray out, quickly rinse all the gunk out with a garden hose, and your mechanical cleaner will be ready for its next trip through your pool.
|
The Paxcess isn’t able to clean the walls — it only cleans pool floors. Because the brush is so thin, your bot might struggle to scrub stubborn algae. This device has a hard time traveling up sloping terrain, making it best for above-ground pools. The tether used to pull the unit out of the water tends to break easily, which can be annoying.
|
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Best Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
|
Cordless – no hoses or cords to set up.
No tangling cords to deal with.
Long battery life.
Good cleaning performance.
Fair price.
|
Takes a long to recharge (4-6 hours).
Doesn’t clean walls.
No weekly scheduler.
Doesn’t filter fine debris.
|
We ranked OT QOMOTOP HJ1103J #11 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
We ranked Aiper Seagull SE #12 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
The Spruce
Best Value
|
Effective at removing silt and small debris
Easy to operate
Self-parks near pool wall
Compatible with both in- and above-ground pools
|
Can't handle large piles of leaves
Long charge time
|
We ranked Polaris VRX iQ+ #13 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Bob Vila
Upgrade pick
|
This unit handles walls, stairs, and bench seats with ease and features 4-wheel drive for improved control and stability
Wi-Fi and Amazon Alexa compatible with iAquaLink app for easy control and customization
Caddy included, which makes it easy to store and move the unit into storage
Dirty-canister indicator alerts users when the basket is full and ready to be emptied
|
High price compared to some other models on the market
Caddy cover is not included but can be purchased separately
|
The Spruce
Best Smart
|
Suitable for pools up to 60 feet
70-foot long tangle-reducing cable
Easy Lift removal system
Caddy requires no tools to assemble
|
Expensive
Heavy
|
We ranked Dolphin Triton PS Plus #14 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Pool Research
Best Controllable Robotic Pool Cleaner
|
Multiple speed settings are useful
One active brush provides additional cleaning support
Lightweight and easy to carry around
Excellent manual controls for spot cleaning
Two cleaning cycles: quick clean and standard
|
Some issues with stairs and corners
Buggy Wi-Fi and Bluetooth feature
Pricey
|
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Fastest-Cleaning Inground Robotic Pool Cleaner
|
Fast 1-hour cleaning cycle.
WiFi connectivity for remote app control.
Dual scrubbing brushes.
Comes with fine and ultra-fine filters.
Weekly scheduler.
|
Pricey.
|
We ranked Hayward SharkVac XL #15 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Pool Research
Easiest to Clean
|
Easy to transport, especially with the cart
Easy to clean filter
Excellent for smaller pools
Available in two sizes
|
Not good at cleaning walls unless you get the XL
No remote control options
Floating cord may get tangled
|
SteamCleanerMaster
|
This is an energy-efficient model.
The filter can be accessed from the top for easy cleaning.
This model is less expensive than the other robotic cleaners we reviewed.
|
It may not get the floor and walls of your pool as clean as some of the other products on our list.
|
We ranked Aiper Seagull Pro #16 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Bob Vila
Best Cordless
|
The robot comes with a hook attachment for a pole to easily retrieve the unit at the bottom of the pool
Battery charges in less than 2 hours and has a runtime of up to 180 minutes
Simple to operate with a user-friendly control dial on the front of the robot
|
May lose power as the battery starts to die
Doesn’t include caddy or cover
A bit heavy when full of water, which we attribute in part to the battery weight
|
The Spruce
Best for Leaves
|
Methodical cleaning pattern
Three cleaning settings
Simple design
|
Stairs seem to confuse cleaning pattern
Can be challenging to retrieve in a deep end
|
We ranked Dolphin Quantum #17 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Cleanup Expert
Easiest robot to clean
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Vortex water jets on the top and sides of this unit allows it to move laterally along pool floors, walls, and up to the waterline. SmartNav 2.0 scanning technology keeps it from going over the same spots multiple times.
The huge, top-loading filter cartridges easily snap apart and are easy to spray clean. A convenient carry handle and fast water release system makes it more ergonomic. 3-mode weekly scheduling conveniently automates cleaning.
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This is an expensive machine. For the price, there aren’t many extras. No caddy. No bluetooth. No remote control. You can purchase those separately, but they’re not cheap either.
Even though there’s supposed to be a swivel function, the power cord can easily tangle. Replacement filter screens are expensive. The jets can blow around debris at times rather than picking it up.
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Robotic Pool Cleaners
Best Wall-Cleaning Robotic Pool Cleaner
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Programmable weekly timer
Powerful, energy-efficient motors
Water jets provide best-in-class vertical wall cleaning
Huge filter cartridge means less frequent emptying
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Pricey
Lacks swivel connector on the cord
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We ranked Pentair Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830 #18 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Pool Research
Best Energy-Efficient Robotic Pool Cleaner
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Extremely affordable to run
Improves pool chemical distribution
Two speed settings
Ability to manually override automatic cleaning mode for spot cleaning
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Common issue with debris container
Too rough on some surfaces, especially textured ones
Heavy unit at 45 pounds
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Robotic Pool Cleaners
Best Kreepy Krauly
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Excellent cleaning performance
Easy mobility. Swivel cable, strongly gripping treads and auto-reverse ensure it never gets stuck
Includes remote control with a weekly timer
Free transport caddy included
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Pricey
Very heavy
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