Best Robotic Pool Cleaners With Strong Suction In 2024
Choosing the right robotic pool cleaner can be a daunting task, especially with the myriad of options available on the market. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly model or one equipped with high-end smart features, it’s essential to understand each cleaner’s strengths and limitations. In this guide, we explore eight of the top robotic pool cleaners, highlighting their features, performance, and what sets them apart. Whether you have a small above-ground pool or a large in-ground oasis, this list will help you find the perfect cleaner for your needs.
8. Aiper Seagull SE Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Aiper Seagull SE Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner is an excellent option for those seeking a cost-effective solution without compromising on performance. Weighing in at just 7.6 pounds, this lightweight cleaner is easy to handle and doesn’t require much effort to place in the pool. One of its standout features is its cordless design, which eliminates the hassle of tangled cables, making it more convenient to use than many other models.Setting up the Seagull SE is straightforward; all it requires is the attachment of brushes, and it’s ready to go.
However, it’s crucial to fully charge the cleaner before its first use to ensure optimal performance. During our initial tests, we tried using the cleaner straight out of the box with the charge it came with, and the results were less than impressive. The cleaner seemed sluggish and lacked power. However, after fully charging it for subsequent tests, the Seagull SE performed significantly better, efficiently picking up most debris in our pool.
This robotic cleaner is particularly well-suited for pools with flat floors and no inclines. While it’s designed specifically for cleaning pool floors, not walls, it excelled in removing pollen and other fine debris from the water. Although it was effective at picking up leaves, it struggled with larger piles, which is something to consider if your pool tends to accumulate more substantial debris.
7. Aiper Scuba S1 Pro Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Aiper Scuba S1 Pro is an enhanced version of the Aiper Scuba S1, our top pick for the best overall robotic pool cleaner. Its larger size and extended capabilities make it an excellent choice for those with larger pools. While it shares many features with the original Scuba S1, the Pro model offers improved cleaning coverage, longer run time, and a larger debris basket, making it better suited for more extensive cleaning tasks.
Designed for pools up to 2,150 square feet, the Scuba S1 Pro impressed us right out of the box. It required no assembly and took just one hour to fully charge its battery for the first time. The cleaner also connected seamlessly to our Wi-Fi network and paired with the Aiper phone app, allowing us to monitor its charge level and control it remotely. Although it only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, it worked well with our Orbi mesh network, which operates on both 2.4 and 5 GHz bands.
When deployed in our large gunite pool, the Scuba S1 Pro slowly sank to the bottom, adjusted its orientation, and began its cleaning cycle. We started with a full cleaning cycle, which included scrubbing the pool walls before moving on to the floor. The cleaner was effective at removing fine sand that was not visible from above, along with bamboo leaves and other debris.
However, the Scuba S1 Pro did encounter some challenges. It got stuck on a built-in corner seat in the deep end and again on the wedding cake-style steps, but it eventually freed itself and continued cleaning without getting stuck in those areas during subsequent cycles. When the cleaning was complete, the cleaner conveniently stopped near a wall, allowing us to retrieve it easily using the included hook, which attached effortlessly to our existing pool pole.
6. Polaris VRX IQ Plus Smart Robotic Pool Cleaner
For those seeking the ultimate in pool-cleaning convenience, the Polaris VRX IQ Plus Smart Robotic Pool Cleaner is a top contender. This high-end model is Wi-Fi enabled, allowing you to control and schedule cleaning sessions directly from the iAquaLink app on your smartphone. Through the app, you can start or stop the cleaner, create customized cleaning schedules, and even receive notifications when the filter needs to be emptied.
Although we tested this cleaner in an above-ground pool, which limited our ability to assess its wall-, step-, and waterline-cleaning capabilities, we were nonetheless impressed by its performance on the pool floor. The Polaris VRX IQ Plus made short work of algae and leaves, demonstrating its powerful cleaning abilities. Additionally, the cleaner is equipped with an intelligent learning feature that maps your pool’s size and dimensions during its first automatic cleaning cycle, allowing it to optimize cleaning paths in future sessions.
The cleaner’s four-wheel-drive system is designed to handle various pool surfaces, including walls, floors, waterlines, and steps. Thanks to its rear water-cleaning system, the Polaris VRX IQ Plus is also effective at blowing debris off stairs and out of tight corners, making it easier for the cleaner to suck up the debris during the cleaning cycle.
5. Dolphin Explorer E50 Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Dolphin Explorer E50 Robotic Pool Cleaner, a 2024 model, stands out as one of the most powerful and effective options on the market. Although its high price tag may be daunting, the performance it delivers makes it a worthwhile investment for those seeking thorough cleaning of their pool. We’ve tested this corded pool cleaner extensively over six months, and it has consistently removed all debris with ease, proving to be both reliable and user-friendly.
Unlike cordless models, the Dolphin Explorer E50 doesn’t require charging, which is advantageous for users with larger pools, as it can run continuously without interruption. However, the cord does limit its operation to pools up to 50 feet long. One of the key benefits of this cleaner is its compatibility with all pool liners, including gunite, fiberglass, and vinyl.
Operating the Dolphin Explorer E50 is straightforward. After plugging it in, you can connect it to the smartphone app, which offers a user-friendly interface for controlling the cleaner. The app allows you to choose from several cleaning modes, including options for floor-only, walls-only, or a combination of both. Additionally, there’s a quick-clean mode for times when a full deep clean isn’t necessary. One of our favorite features is the remote monitoring and cycle alerts, which notify you when the cleaner has completed a cycle and prompt it to float to the surface for easy retrieval.
This cleaner is highly effective at cleaning walls and waterlines, and it even managed to clean a set of stairs, although it did get stuck once on the stairs. Regardless of the size of the debris, the Dolphin Explorer E50 was able to pick up everything in its path. Its large filter basket further enhances its usability by eliminating the need to empty it mid-cycle. When it’s time to empty the basket, a button on the unit pops it up and opens it, making it easy to remove and dump out the contents.
4. Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme Wi-Fi Operated Pool Cleaner
For those with large pools or those who desire a pool cleaner with advanced features, the Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme Wi-Fi Operated Pool Cleaner is an excellent choice. Throughout several months of testing, we were consistently impressed by its thorough cleaning abilities. Unlike less expensive models, this robotic cleaner is equipped to clean not only the pool’s floor but also the walls and waterline, ensuring that every inch of the pool is free from dirt and algae. Its dual-filter system effectively captures various types of debris, keeping the water crystal clear.
This high-end pool cleaner is designed for in-ground pools up to 50 feet in length and offers cleaning cycles that range from one and a half to three and a half hours, depending on the selected mode. The Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme is equipped with three powerful scrubbing brushes that deliver a deep clean, while its smart navigation software scans the pool to create an efficient cleaning route.
One of the standout features of this cleaner is its tangle-free cable, which prevents the unit from getting stuck during operation. Additionally, the cleaner includes an automatic weekly timer and an LED indicator light that alerts you when the filter needs to be cleaned.
Although the Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme excels at climbing walls and cleaning the waterline, it struggles with steps that are narrower than the cleaner itself. However, it was able to clean a wider sun ledge without any issues. We also found the corresponding app to be particularly useful for tracking the cleaner’s progress and seeing its location in the pool. We tested the robot’s pre-programmed standard and enhanced cleaning modes and found that it was able to clean the pool to about 95 to 99 percent effectiveness. For any remaining debris, we used the remote steering function to direct the cleaner to specific spots that it had missed.
3. Polaris Freedom Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Polaris Freedom Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner is our top pick for smart pool-cleaning technology, offering best-in-class cleaning performance combined with practical smart features. The AquaLink app provides a seamless connection to the robot, allowing you to monitor essential information such as charging and cycle status. The app also sends push alerts when the Polaris Freedom has completed a cleaning cycle and is ready for retrieval from the pool.
After three months of use, we found that the Polaris Freedom delivers consistent results, making it a reliable choice for maintaining a clean pool. One of the cleaner’s advantages is that it can be operated without the app once the initial setup is complete. Simply turn it on, place it in the pool, and let it get to work. The app does offer additional cleaning modes, such as waterline skimming and a smart cycle that increases efficiency, but the standard cycle alone is more than sufficient for most cleaning tasks.
Maintaining a Wi-Fi connection to the robot was not an issue during our tests, although weak network signals near the pool could potentially cause connectivity problems, as water can block Wi-Fi signals. The Polaris Freedom’s basic cleaning cycle takes about three hours, during which it effectively cleans both the walls and the floor. However, it did struggle with our pool’s steps, particularly the shallow top step, which the cleaner may not have recognized as part of the pool.
2. Wybot Osprey 200 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Wybot Osprey 200 is our top choice for a budget-friendly robotic pool cleaner, offering impressive performance in both in-ground and above-ground pools. It’s incredibly easy to use, which makes it an ideal option for those who prefer a straightforward and hassle-free pool-cleaning experience. Despite being designed for flat-bottomed pools, the Wybot Osprey 200 handled the slight incline in our pool without any issues, efficiently cleaning from a depth of 3 feet to 5 feet. We’ve used this cleaner every few weeks for three months, and it has consistently delivered excellent results.
Priced at approximately $400 less than the Aiper Scuba S1, our top overall pick, the Wybot Osprey 200 offers a significant cost saving. While it lacks the ability to clean walls and has a shorter battery life, it’s perfect for smaller pools and lighter cleaning tasks where a more expensive unit isn’t necessary. Additionally, this robot works well in above-ground pools, which the Aiper Scuba S1 does not.
During testing, the Wybot Osprey 200 was able to clean our 12 x 30-foot kidney-shaped pool in less than an hour, which is about the limit of its battery life. Although the battery life is shorter than some other models, it was more than adequate for our pool size. This cleaner’s lightweight design, at just 7.9 pounds, makes it easy to lift in and out of the pool, even when full of water. This is a significant advantage over heavier models like the Polaris Freedom, which can be challenging to remove from the pool after a cleaning cycle.
1. Aiper Scuba S1 Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Aiper Scuba S1 is our top choice for the best overall robotic pool cleaner, thanks to its exceptional performance and ease of use. Unlike many other cleaners that require complicated setup and operation procedures, the Scuba S1 is straightforward and highly effective at cleaning both pool floors and walls. Its large filter basket is another advantage, as it eliminates the need to interrupt cleaning cycles to empty it.
Over three months of testing, during which we used the Scuba S1 to clean our 10 x 40-foot pool twice a week, this cleaner consistently delivered excellent results. Whether dealing with silt and dirt from construction or performing routine maintenance, the Scuba S1 covered every part of the pool and left no visible debris behind. The first cleaning session, which dealt with a significant amount of dirt, took about two hours. Subsequent cleanings were faster, typically taking around 90 minutes.
While the Scuba S1 lacks smart features like Wi-Fi or smartphone connectivity, it doesn’t need them to perform its job effectively. It utilizes Aiper’s WavePath 2.0 smart navigation technology to clean pools up to 1,600 square feet methodically. This technology, which involves scrubbing in parallel lines rather than following a randomized path, is also used in the more expensive Aiper Scuba S1 Pro, our top pick for larger pools. Although the Scuba S1 can be a bit challenging to remove from the pool due to its weight—approximately 20 pounds dry—it is still lighter than the Scuba S1 Pro, which weighs 34.2 pounds.
Buying Guide for Robotic Pool Cleaners
When it comes to maintaining a pristine pool with minimal effort, robotic pool cleaners are a game-changer. With a wide variety of options available, choosing the right one for your pool can be challenging. This buying guide will help you navigate the essential factors to consider when selecting a robotic pool cleaner, ensuring that you make an informed decision.
Pool Size and Shape
The size and shape of your pool are critical factors when choosing a robotic pool cleaner. Some models are designed for smaller, flat-bottomed pools, while others are capable of handling large, irregularly shaped pools with varying depths. If you have a large or complex pool, look for a cleaner with advanced navigation technology and a longer battery life, such as the Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme or the Polaris VRX IQ Plus. For smaller or simpler pools, more budget-friendly options like the Wybot Osprey 200 might be sufficient.
Cleaning Capabilities
Robotic pool cleaners come with various cleaning capabilities, ranging from basic floor cleaning to comprehensive models that can scrub walls, steps, and even the waterline. If your pool requires thorough cleaning of walls and waterlines, consider models like the Dolphin Explorer E50 or the Polaris VRX IQ Plus. For pools that only need floor cleaning, options like the Aiper Seagull SE offer good performance at a lower price point.
Corded vs. Cordless
Cordless robotic pool cleaners offer the convenience of hassle-free operation without the risk of tangled cables, making them ideal for users who prioritize ease of use. However, corded models, such as the Dolphin Explorer E50, typically have unlimited runtime, making them better suited for larger pools that require extended cleaning sessions. When choosing between corded and cordless, consider the size of your pool and your preference for convenience versus continuous operation.
Filter Capacity and Maintenance
The size of the filter basket in a robotic pool cleaner determines how much debris it can hold before needing to be emptied. If your pool tends to accumulate a lot of debris, such as leaves or dirt, look for a cleaner with a large filter basket like the Aiper Scuba S1. Additionally, consider how easy it is to empty and clean the filter basket, as this can impact the overall user experience.
Smart Features and Connectivity
For tech-savvy users, robotic pool cleaners with smart features and Wi-Fi connectivity offer added convenience. Models like the Polaris VRX IQ Plus and Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme can be controlled via smartphone apps, allowing you to schedule cleanings, monitor the cleaner’s progress, and receive notifications when the filter needs attention. These features can be particularly useful for busy homeowners who want to manage their pool maintenance remotely.
Budget Considerations
Robotic pool cleaners are available at various price points, from budget-friendly models to high-end options with advanced features. It’s essential to set a budget and determine which features are most important to you. For example, if you’re looking for a cost-effective solution for a small pool, the Wybot Osprey 200 offers excellent value. On the other hand, if you’re willing to invest in a premium cleaner with all the bells and whistles, the Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme might be worth the splurge.
FAQs
How often should I use my robotic pool cleaner? It depends on how frequently you use your pool and the surrounding environment. For pools in areas with a lot of debris, such as leaves or pollen, running the cleaner 2-3 times a week may be necessary. If your pool is relatively clean and used infrequently, once a week might be sufficient.
Can robotic pool cleaners climb walls and clean steps? Some robotic pool cleaners are designed to climb walls and clean steps, but not all models have this capability. High-end models like the Dolphin Explorer E50 and Polaris VRX IQ Plus are equipped to handle walls and steps. If wall and step cleaning is essential, be sure to choose a model with these features.
How do I maintain my robotic pool cleaner? Regular maintenance of your robotic pool cleaner involves emptying and cleaning the filter basket after each use, checking the brushes for wear, and inspecting the cleaner for any debris that might be stuck. Additionally, ensure that the cleaner is stored in a cool, dry place when not in use, and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for periodic maintenance.
Is a corded or cordless robotic pool cleaner better? Corded robotic pool cleaners offer continuous operation without the need for recharging, making them ideal for large pools. However, they can be cumbersome to manage due to the cable. Cordless models, on the other hand, offer greater convenience and ease of use but have limited battery life. The choice between corded and cordless depends on your pool size and personal preference.
Can I leave my robotic pool cleaner in the pool when not in use? It’s generally not recommended to leave your robotic pool cleaner in the pool when not in use, as prolonged exposure to water and chemicals can cause wear and tear. It’s best to remove the cleaner from the pool after each use, empty the filter basket, and store it in a dry place to prolong its lifespan.
Conclusion
Investing in a robotic pool cleaner can save you time and effort, making pool maintenance more manageable and enjoyable. By considering factors such as pool size, cleaning capabilities, corded versus cordless options, and budget, you can choose a cleaner that fits your specific needs. Whether you opt for a high-end model with smart features or a more straightforward, budget-friendly option, a robotic pool cleaner is a valuable addition to any pool care routine.
