December 2024

Robotic Pool Cleaners: MetaRanking

This page highlights the aggregate summary of robotic pool cleaners rankings posted by key online experts, as of December 2024.

Summary

On 7 Dec 2024, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 94 pool cleaner endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.

49 pool cleaners were endorsed in total, only 22 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)

As of 7 Dec 2024, Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed pool cleaner with 8 expert endorsements. 4 experts out of 8 recommended it as the '#1 pool cleaner' this month.

Brand breakdown
Show all brands

Price breakdown
As can be seen in the chart below, lowest high-ranking robotic pool cleaners start at $76.14 (Hydrus Roker Plus) and go up to $2199 (Beatbot Aquasense Pro). Median pool cleaner costs $649.95 (Aiper Scuba S1).
$76.14
$2199

At a glance - December Ranking

Scroll horizontally to browse this ranking table
Rank Change Price Pool Cleaner
Forbes
Real Simple
River Pools
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Bob Vila
The Spruce
Cleanup Expert
US News & World Report
reviewed.usatoday.com
Better Homes and Gardens
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.
7
1
6
3
1
-
-
1
1
5
2
- Check price
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.
-
7
5
4
-
-
2
3
2
3
3
- $200
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.
2
-
-
-
2
-
-
2
3
2
4
- $679
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.
-
6
-
7
5
-
13
4
-
4
5
+1 $1549
Dolphin Explorer E50
-
3
-
-
-
2
-
-
-
1
6
-1 $1299
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.
-
5
-
-
-
3
1
-
-
-
7
- $650
Aiper Scuba S1
-
9
-
-
-
1
-
-
-
8
8
+1 $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.
-
-
4
1
-
-
-
-
-
-
9
+2 $1640
Polaris VRX iQ+
-
-
-
-
3
5
-
-
-
7
10
+2 $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.
-
-
1
-
-
-
10
-
-
-
11
-3 Check price
Polaris 9650IQ
The Polaris 9650IQ robotic pool cleaner is a powerful and efficient solution for pool owners looking to maintain a clean and healthy pool environment with ease.
5
-
-
-
6
-
-
7
-
-
12
-2 $120
Wybot Osprey 200
-
2
-
-
-
-
-
-
4
-
14
- $88
Intex ZX300 Deluxe
4
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
5
-
15
- $2199
Beatbot Aquasense Pro
-
-
-
-
4
8
-
-
-
-
16
- $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.
-
-
-
8
-
-
4
-
-
-
17
- $1699
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.
-
-
-
5
-
-
7
-
-
-
18
+2 $1399
Polaris Freedom
-
4
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9
19
-1 $574
Polaris P70
-
-
-
-
7
-
-
6
-
-
20
-1 $1299
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.
-
-
-
6
-
-
8
-
-
-
21
- 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.
-
-
-
-
8
-
-
8
-
-
22
- Check price
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.
8
-
-
9
-
-
-
-
-
-
23
- Check price
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.
-
-
-
13
-
-
15
-
-
-

Pool Cleaner
#14 $88 Intex ZX300 Deluxe
#12 $119.99 Wybot Osprey 200
#3 $199.99 Aiper Seagull SE
#21 $413.91 Aiper Seagull Pro
#10 $499 Dolphin E10
#19 $574 Polaris P70
#7 $649.95 Aiper Scuba S1
#4 $679 Dolphin Escape
#16 $899.99 Dolphin Triton PS
#8 $1199 Polaris F9550
#6 $1299 Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme
#20 $1299 Dolphin Quantum
#18 $1399 Polaris Freedom
#5 $1549 Dolphin Explorer E50
#9 $1640 Polaris VRX iQ+
#17 $1699 Dolphin Sigma
#15 $2199 Beatbot Aquasense Pro

We ranked Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus #1 in December 2024 because:

  • 8 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
  • Out of those, 4 experts ranked Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 10 May 2023)
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.
Critic endorsements:
Forbes

Best Robotic Pool Cleaner For Large Pools

Go to ranking

Real Simple

Best Overall Robotic Pool Cleaner

It’s a highly effective, easy-to-use cleaner that works remarkably fast.

It doesn’t do waterline cleaning.

Go to ranking

River Pools

Best Overall Robotic Cleaner

Go to ranking

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.

Go to ranking

Bob Vila

Best overall

Capable of climbing walls for a more thorough cleaning
Large filtration system is suitable for sticks and leaves
Can be used on all pool-surface types, including gunite or plaster pools
Users can schedule cleaning weekly

Does not have smartphone capabilities
May become stuck on steps
Power supply is water-resistant but not waterproof

Go to ranking

US News & World Report

Best Overall

Flagship model by leading brand
Easy setup and operation
Effective cleaning suction
Programmable timer
Available with optional Wi-Fi connectivity

No waterline cleaning
Not cordless

Go to ranking

reviewed.usatoday.com

Best Smart Robotic Pool Cleaner

Great suction
Easy set-up and app control
Climbs walls easily
Filters are easy to clean

No settings on power base
Can get stuck on steps

Go to ranking

Better Homes and Gardens

Best for In-Ground Pools

Go to ranking

We ranked Dolphin Premier 2018 #2 in December 2024 because:

  • 7 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 17 May 2023)
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.
Critic endorsements:
Real Simple

Best Robotic Pool Cleaner for Debris

It’s a powerful yet gentle cleaner that moves around smoothly.

It doesn’t come with a lot of special features, despite the high price tag.

Go to ranking

River Pools

Best For Cleaning Every Part Of Your Pool

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

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.

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.

Go to ranking

US News & World Report

Best High-End

Powerful cleaning of pool floors, walls, and waterline
Fine and ultrafine filters included
Suitable for all pool types
Easily handles larger debris such as leaves
Three-year warranty

Expensive
No smart connectivity

Go to ranking

reviewed.usatoday.com

Wall-climbing capabilities
Optional remote control
3 filtration options

Pretty expensive

Go to ranking

Better Homes and Gardens

Best Splurge

Go to ranking

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 December 2024 ranking

We ranked Aiper Seagull SE #3 in December 2024 because:

  • 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 21 Jul 2023)
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.
Critic endorsements:
Forbes

Best Value Robotic Pool Cleaner

Go to ranking

Bob Vila

Best Bang for the Buck

Cordless design prevents anything from becoming tangled in the cord
90-minute runtime is plenty to clean an above-ground or flat inground pool
Easy to clean and maintain
Lightweight compared to some of the larger robot vacuums

No debris basket to catch leaves, twigs, and other debris.
Not designed for pools with a slope

Go to ranking

US News & World Report

Best Budget

Ideal pool cleaner for those on a budget
Cordless operation
Lightweight and easy to manage

No wall cleaning
Limited programmability
Not ideal for larger pools

Go to ranking

reviewed.usatoday.com

Charges in about 2.5 hrs
Totally cordless

No wall climbing

Go to ranking

Better Homes and Gardens

Best Budget

Go to ranking

We ranked Dolphin Escape #4 in December 2024 because:

  • 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 19 May 2023)
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.
Critic endorsements:
Real Simple

Best Robotic Cleaner for Above-Ground Pools

It’s very compact and lightweight compared to other pool cleaners.

It can’t handle large-sized pools.

Go to ranking

Robotic Pool Cleaners

Best Above Ground Robotic Pool Cleaner

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

No ultra-fine filter included (can buy separately)
No swivel cord

Go to ranking

Bob Vila

Best for Above-gound

Quick 90-minute cleaning cycle lets pool users enjoy a clean pool faster
Comes with a convenient 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

Go to ranking

Cleanup Expert

Most Versatile

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.

Go to ranking

US News & World Report

Best For Above-Ground Pools

Highly effective for above-ground and smaller in-ground pools
Works on virtually all pool lining surfaces
Cleans well, even on uneven floors
Large filter basket

No weekly timer or app controls
Cannot clean walls

Go to ranking

Better Homes and Gardens

Best for Above Ground Pools

Go to ranking

We ranked Dolphin Explorer E50 #5 in December 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Dolphin Explorer E50 as #1.
Critic endorsements:
Real Simple

Best Smart Robotic Pool Cleaner

Its user-friendly interface and app make it super easy to control.

It’s the highest-priced cleaner on our list.

Go to ranking

The Spruce

Best for In-Ground Pools

Very easy to retrieve
Cycle alerts through app
Cleans stairs

Wish cord was a bit longer

Go to ranking

Better Homes and Gardens

Best Overall

Go to ranking

We ranked Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme #6 in December 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 19 May 2023)
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.
Critic endorsements:
Real Simple

Best Robotic Pool Cleaner for In-Ground Pools

It’s Wi-Fi-enabled, and the app is very easy to set up and use.

It sports a notably high price tag

Go to ranking

The Spruce

Best Features

Remote steering
Anti-tangle cable
Cleans walls and waterline
Three cleaning levels

Cannot clean steps
Misses some spots during automatic cleaning cycles

Go to ranking

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.

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.

Go to ranking

We ranked Aiper Scuba S1 #7 in December 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Aiper Scuba S1 as #1.
Critic endorsements:
Real Simple

Best Robotic Pool Cleaner for Walls

It comes out of the water to clean the surrounding tile.

It’s a heavyweight option.

Go to ranking

The Spruce

Best Overall

Excellent cleaning results
Easy to operate
Fast charging time
Parks at the end of the cycle

Slightly difficult to remove from the pool

Go to ranking

Better Homes and Gardens

Best for Walls

Go to ranking

We ranked Polaris F9550 #8 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Polaris F9550 as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 19 May 2023)
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.
Critic endorsements:
River Pools

Best For Larger Pools

Go to ranking

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)

Go to ranking

We ranked Polaris VRX iQ+ #9 in December 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
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

Go to ranking

The Spruce

Best Automation

Suitable for pools up to 60 feet
70-foot-long tangle-reducing cable
Easy Lift removal system
Caddy requires no tools to assemble

Heavy

Go to ranking

Better Homes and Gardens

Best with Caddy

Go to ranking

We ranked Dolphin E10 #10 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Dolphin E10 as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 19 May 2023)
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.
Critic endorsements:
River Pools

Best for above-ground pools

Go to ranking

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.

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.

Go to ranking

We ranked Polaris 9650IQ #11 in December 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 18 Apr 2024)
The Polaris 9650IQ robotic pool cleaner is a powerful and efficient solution for pool owners looking to maintain a clean and healthy pool environment with ease.
Critic endorsements:
Forbes

Best Upgrade Robotic Pool Cleaner

Go to ranking

Bob Vila

Best for Ingound

Handles walls, stairs, and bench seats with ease
Wi-Fi and Amazon Alexa compatible
Comes with a caddy at no extra cost
Dirty-canister indicator lets users see when the vacuum needs to be emptied
4-wheel drive improves control and stability

Premium price tag compared to similar options
Caddy cover is not included (purchased separately)

Go to ranking

US News & World Report

Best Smart Features

Excellent suite of smart features and mobile app controls
Cleans all surfaces, including waterline
Oversize filter canister and 70-foot cord are ideal for large pools
Includes caddy for transport and storage
Surfaces itself for easy removal

It’s pricey
The total package is heavy

Go to ranking

We ranked Wybot Osprey 200 #12 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
Real Simple

Best Budget Robotic Pool Cleaner

The battery life is very long.

It only cleans floors, not walls or stairs.

Go to ranking

reviewed.usatoday.com

User-friendly
Easy to clean
Extra affordable

No wall climbing

Go to ranking

We ranked Intex ZX300 Deluxe #13 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
Forbes

Best Robotic Pool Cleaner For Above-Ground Pools

Go to ranking

reviewed.usatoday.com

Wall-climbing capabilities
Extra affordable

Limited compatibility

Go to ranking

We ranked Beatbot Aquasense Pro #14 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
Bob Vila

Best all-in one

Can skim the waterline to serve as a skimmer
Cord-free design
Recharges in under 5 hours
All-in-one design allows for a whole-pool clean using 1 unit

Requires recharging
If stopped mid cycle, the robot must be retrieved with the included hook

Go to ranking

The Spruce

Best for Large Pools

Easy setup and assembly
Effective scrubbing and skimming
Big filter basket is easy to clean
Floats to the surface for easy retrieval

Unclear when it’s done at first
Complicated startup process

Go to ranking

We ranked Dolphin Triton PS #15 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 19 May 2023)
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.
Critic endorsements:
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.

Go to ranking

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.

Go to ranking

We ranked Dolphin Sigma #16 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 17 May 2023)
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.
Critic endorsements:
Robotic Pool Cleaners

Best Smartphone-Connected Robotic Pool Cleaner

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

Go to ranking

Cleanup Expert

Most innovative

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.

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.

Go to ranking

We ranked Polaris Freedom #17 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
Real Simple

Best Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner

It has four cleaning modes and a waterline-only option.

It’s expensive, and the app sometimes glitches.

Go to ranking

Better Homes and Gardens

Best for Fine Debris

Go to ranking

We ranked Polaris P70 #18 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
Bob Vila

Best for Smaller pools

Lightweight compared to other models
Easy-to-clean top-loading debris basket
Simple to operate

Doesn’t climb walls
Doesn’t include caddy or cover
Debris basket can fill quickly

Go to ranking

US News & World Report

Best For Small Pools

A compact and efficient cleaner for simple pools
Operating and cleaning are simple
Powerful vacuum
Effective for cleaning all types of debris

No wall-climbing
No app functionality or schedule programming

Go to ranking

We ranked Dolphin Quantum #19 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 19 May 2023)
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.
Critic endorsements:
Robotic Pool Cleaners

Best Wall-Cleaning Robotic Pool Cleaner

Programmable weekly timer
Powerful, energy-efficient motors
Water jets provide best-in-class vertical wall cleaning
Huge filter cartridge means less frequent emptying

Pricey
Lacks swivel connector on the cord

Go to ranking

Cleanup Expert

Easiest robot to clean

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.

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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We ranked Aiper Seagull Pro #20 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 14 Jun 2023)
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.
Critic endorsements:
Bob Vila

Best Cordless

Includes a hook attachment for a pole for easy retrieval
Charges in less than 2 hours and runs for up to 180 minutes
Simple to operate with a user-friendly control dial

May lose power as the battery starts to die
Doesn’t include caddy or cover
A bit heavy when full of water (thanks to battery weight)

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US News & World Report

Best For Walls

Highly effective at cleaning pool walls and the waterline
User-friendly dial controls
Multiple cleaning modes
Cordless operation

Suction weakens as battery drains
Somewhat heavy due to internal battery

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We ranked Dolphin Triton PS Plus #21 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 19 May 2023)
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.
Critic endorsements:
Forbes

Best Smart Robotic Pool Cleaner

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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.

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We ranked Paxcess Cordless #22 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best robotic pool cleaners” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 19 May 2023)
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.
Critic endorsements:
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.

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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.

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