October 2021
Robotic Pool Cleaners: Aggregated Ranking Report
This report contains an aggregate consensus of Pool Cleaner rankings posted by key online experts, as of October 2021.
At a glance - October 2021 Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Pool Cleaner |
The Spruce
|
Cleanup Expert
|
Pool Research
|
River Pools
|
Robotic Pool Cleaners
|
Poolbots
|
PoolCleanerPlanet
|
Bob Vila
|
Spy
|
SteamCleanerMaster
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | $839 |
Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus
|
1
|
-
|
1
|
6
|
3
|
-
|
3
|
1
|
1
|
1
|
|
2
|
- | $1979 |
Dolphin Premier 2018
|
4
|
2
|
-
|
5
|
4
|
2
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
|
3
|
- | $1297 |
Dolphin Sigma
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
1
|
-
|
6
|
9
|
2
|
|
4
|
- | $1300 |
Polaris F9550
|
-
|
5
|
3
|
4
|
1
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
5
|
- | $829 |
Aquabot Breeze IQ
|
-
|
12
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
|
6
|
- | Check price |
Aquabot X4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
12
|
6
|
5
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
|
7
|
- | $499 |
Dolphin E10
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
|
8
|
- | $999 |
Hayward SharkVac XL
|
3
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
|
9
|
- | $899 |
Dolphin Triton PS
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
|
10
|
- | $697 |
Dolphin Escape
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
11
|
- | Check price |
OT QOMOTOP HJ1103J
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
|
12
|
- | $1099 |
Dolphin Triton PS Plus
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
13
|
- | Check price |
Dolphin Quantum Inground
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
14
|
- | Check price |
Polaris F9450
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
|
15
|
- | $717 |
Hayward SharkVac
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
16
|
- | Check price |
Pentair Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
16
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
17
|
- | $1579 |
Hayward TigerShark
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
11
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
18
|
- | Check price |
Aquabot Spirit Above
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
13
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
19
|
- | Check price |
Aquabot Junior Pool Rover
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
15
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
We ranked Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus #1 in October 2021 because:
- 8 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
- Out of those, 5 experts ranked Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus as #1.
The Spruce
Best Overall
|
Pros
Uses its own power supply
Quiet operation
Cleans floors and walls
Collects debris
|
Cons
No smart capabilities
|
Pool Research
Best Overall Robotic Pool Cleaner
|
Pros
Energy-efficient cleaner
Anti-swivel cable helps prevent tangles
Flexible scheduling times
|
Cons
Does not do stairs very well
Some manufacturing concerns
|
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Best Robotic Pool Cleaner for Inground Pools
|
Pros
 Powerful robotic cleaner for in-ground pools.
Anti-tangle swivel cable.
Fine and ultrafine filters.
Dual scrubbing brushes.
Weekly scheduler.
|
Cons
A bit heavy.
Not suitable for budget shoppers.
|
PoolCleanerPlanet
Best Value
|
Pros
Easy operation
Two-year warranty
Works on floor and walls
Great price
|
Cons
Sometimes needs multiple cycles
|
SteamCleanerMaster
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
It doesn’t do a good job cleaning some stair types.
|
We ranked Dolphin Premier 2018 #2 in October 2021 because:
- 7 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Dolphin Premier 2018 as #1.
The Spruce
Best for Leaves
|
Pros
Collects large debris
Light indicates when to replace filter
Cleans floors and walls
|
Cons
No Smart capabilities.
|
Cleanup Expert
Best Waterline Cleaner
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
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.
|
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Most Powerful Robotic Pool Cleaner for Residential Pools
|
Pros
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
|
Cons
Included instructions are not the best
This unit is heavy
|
PoolCleanerPlanet
Best Overall
|
Pros
Cleans walls and floor
Multiple cleaning functions
Smart Control
Tangle-free swivel
|
Cons
Expensive
|
SteamCleanerMaster
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
The cleaner is a bit heavy and may be challenging to remove from the bottom of your pool.
|
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 October 2021 ranking
The Spruce
Cleanup Expert
Pool Research
River Pools
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Poolbots
PoolCleanerPlanet
Bob Vila
Spy
SteamCleanerMaster
We ranked Dolphin Sigma #3 in October 2021 because:
- 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Dolphin Sigma as #1.
Cleanup Expert
Most innovative
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
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.
|
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Best Smartphone-Connected Robotic Pool Cleaner
|
Pros
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
|
Cons
Expensive
Bluetooth app does not always work
|
SteamCleanerMaster
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
If your pool frequently is filled with leaves and other large droppings, this cleaner may get clogged more frequently.
|
We ranked Polaris F9550 #4 in October 2021 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Polaris F9550 as #1.
Cleanup Expert
Best for Custom-Shaped Pools
|
Pros
One of the features that helps it to navigate the winding curves of unconventional pool layouts is its four-wheel drive. This allows it to easily move around corners without having to back up.
This robot has powerful Vortex Vacuum technology at its command. This means that it has enough suction to pick up even large pieces of floating debris.
|
Cons
This robot gets tangled up in its own cord more often than its competitors. So, if you buy this unit, this might mean more trips out to the pool to free it from its own self-induced predicament.
The remote control has been known to be sluggish. You could find yourself at wit’s end because you repeatedly push a button just to complete a single action.
|
Pool Research
Best for Pools with Tight Corners
|
Pros
Excellent at sharp corners
Four-wheel drive system provides outstanding mobility
Compatible with multiple apps for manual control
Tangle-free cable system works well
|
Cons
Heavier than most of the competition
More expensive than most other cleaners
|
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Best Robotic Pool Cleaner for Large Pools
|
Pros
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
|
Cons
Pricey
A bit heavy (the automatic lift system eliminates most of the hassle, though)
|
We ranked Aquabot Breeze IQ #5 in October 2021 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
Cleanup Expert
Best Filtration
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
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
|
Pros
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
|
Cons
Relatively heavy
No remote control options
Filters are fragile
|
PoolCleanerPlanet
|
Pros
Cleans floors and walls
Long cable
Great filters
|
Cons
Poor durability
Cord tangles
|
SteamCleanerMaster
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
You cannot program this model to clean on a set schedule.
|
We ranked Aquabot X4 #6 in October 2021 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Best Value Robotic Pool Cleaner
|
Pros
Excellent cleaning performance
Works in above ground and in-ground pools
Programmable cycles and weekly timer
Swivel cable to prevent tangling
Great value for money
|
Cons
Struggles with some areas like the steps and waterline
Wheels do not provide the same level of traction of jet drive or treads
|
PoolCleanerPlanet
|
Pros
Very large cartridge
Automatic pool mapping
Four-wheel drive
|
Cons
May need warranty service
Struggles with 90-degree walls
|
We ranked Dolphin E10 #7 in October 2021 because:
- 3 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
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
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 Hayward SharkVac XL #8 in October 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
The Spruce
Best for Inground Pools
|
Pros
Cleans floors and walls
Long power cord
Easy access to filters
|
Cons
No Smart capabilities
|
Pool Research
Easiest to Clean
|
Pros
Medium-weight is easy to transport, especially with the cart
The filter is particularly easy to clean
Excellent for smaller pools
Thoroughly cleans pool floors in about 2 hours
Available in two sizes
|
Cons
Not good at cleaning walls unless you get the XL
No remote control options
|
SteamCleanerMaster
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
It may not get the floor and walls of your pool as clean as some of the other products on our list.
|
We ranked Dolphin Triton PS #9 in October 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
Cleanup Expert
Best Range of Mobility
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
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
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
No option to select cleaning cycles.
Struggles to clean curvy areas of the pool.
|
We ranked Dolphin Escape #10 in October 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
Cleanup Expert
Most Versatile
|
Pros
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!
|
Cons
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.
|
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Best Above Ground Robotic Pool Cleaner
|
Pros
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
|
Cons
No ultra-fine filter included (can buy separately)
No swivel cord
|
We ranked OT QOMOTOP HJ1103J #11 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
We ranked Dolphin Triton PS Plus #12 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
Pool Research
Best Controllable Robotic Pool Cleaner
|
Pros
Multiple speed settings are useful
One active brush provides additional cleaning support
Lightweight and easy to carry around
Excellent manual controls for spot cleaning
|
Cons
Some issues with stairs and corners
Regular manufacturing concerns
|
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Fastest-Cleaning Inground Robotic Pool Cleaner
|
Pros
Fast 1-hour cleaning cycle.
WiFi connectivity for remote app control.
Dual scrubbing brushes.
Comes with fine and ultra-fine filters.
Weekly scheduler.
|
Cons
Pricey.
|
We ranked Dolphin Quantum Inground #13 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Best Wall-Cleaning Robotic Pool Cleaner
|
Pros
Programmable weekly timer
Powerful, energy-efficient motors
Water jets provide best-in-class vertical wall cleaning
Huge filter cartridge means less frequent emptying
|
Cons
Pricey
Lacks swivel connector on the cord
|
We ranked Polaris F9450 #14 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
PoolCleanerPlanet
The Runner Up
|
Pros
Efficient cleaning
Scrubs walls and floors
Seven-day programmable cycle
Waterline-only mode
|
Cons
Not great for fine dirt
|
SteamCleanerMaster
|
Pros
It can clean the floor, walls, and tile line of your pool.
The filter has a large capacity, so it won’t need to be emptied as frequently.
You can program the cleaner and customize the cleaning cycle.
|
Cons
This model does not have a tangle-free cord.
|
We ranked Hayward SharkVac #15 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
Cleanup Expert
Best Budget Model
|
Pros
This hard-working bot will make quick work of even the dirtiest of pools. If your pool is surrounded by trees that dump a lot of leaves and other plant debris, buy this robot ASAP because it was made for jobs like this. It’s perfect for pool parties too. Simply run this underwater droid so you can schmooze with party guests instead of breaking your back cleaning your swimming hole.
|
Cons
There have been some reports that when you press the button, the cover doesn’t easily open so you can change the filter. There’s a trick to it—by pressing on the top of the lid slightly as you press the button, it will release. The cord often gets tangled up by the time the cycle is complete, which is more than a little frustrating.
|
PoolCleanerPlanet
|
Pros
Smart steering system
Easy filter cartridge access
Does well with stairs
|
Cons
Heavy
Poor on walls
|
We ranked Pentair Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830 #16 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
Pool Research
Best Energy-Efficient Robotic Pool Cleaner
|
Pros
Extremely affordable to run
Improves pool chemical distribution
Reasonably long extension cord
Two speed settings
|
Cons
Common issues with debris container and power supply
Too rough on some surfaces, especially textured ones
|
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Best Kreepy Krauly
|
Pros
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
|
Cons
Pricey
Very heavy
|
We ranked Hayward TigerShark #17 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Best Hayward Robotic Pool Cleaner
|
Pros
Convenient quick clean cycle
Cleans most areas of the pool very well
The filter cartridge is easy to remove and clean
|
Cons
It is a bit heavy
Struggles on walls and stairs at times
|
PoolCleanerPlanet
|
Pros
90-minute cleaning cycle
Easy cartridge cleaning
Easy operation
|
Cons
Expensive
Heavy
|
We ranked Aquabot Spirit Above #18 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
Robotic Pool Cleaners
For Leaves and Debris Only
|
Pros
Affordable.
Efficient and energy-saving propulsion system.
Swivel cable.
Convenient top-access filters.
Suitable for both above ground and in-ground pools.
|
Cons
No scrubbing brushes. You have to occasionally scrub the pool manually
Bags are messier and harder to clean compared to cartridges
|
We ranked Aquabot Junior Pool Rover #19 in October 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Robotic Pool Cleaners” rankings.
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Most Affordable for Above Ground Pools
|
Pros
Super-affordable
The ultra-fine filter picks up even the smallest of particles
Works on all kinds of pool surfaces
|
Cons
Occasional manual scrubbing required. This cleaner lacks brushes
Does not fully scale walls
No intelligent navigation
Wheel pins used to manually set direction (takes a few tries to set it right)
|