Keeping your pool clean doesn’t have to be a hassle, especially with today’s robotic pool cleaners that handle the work for you. But with so many models available, it can be tough to know which ones actually perform well. To make your decision easier, we’ve researched the best robotic pool cleaners based on real customer reviews. These insights come from everyday pool owners who have put these machines to the test. Whether you’re dealing with leaves, fine debris, or just looking to save time, this guide will help you choose a cleaner that suits your pool and your budget.
1. Dolphin Nautilus CC Robotic Pool Cleaner
Helpful Review: The Dolphin was delivered today (ahead of schedule), and after reading the Quick Start directions, I put it to work immediately. There’s almost nothing to it. Connect the waterproof cord to the console, drop the unit into the water, plug the console cord into the wall socket, press the power button.
We have a rectangular fiberglass pool with salt water. It has a large sitting platform which is about 2 feet deep. The platform then drops off into the deeper (lap swimming) end of the pool. The pool is 6 feet at the deepest end. I dropped the Dolphin into the deep end then hit the start button.
This unit is advertised. It was definitely vacuuming up the debris. It picks up the pebbles, and it actually crawls up the pool wall to the point where at least a third of it breaches the surface, then drops back in. However, I have seen it crawl up the 4 foot wall of the platform, at which time it cleans the platform (briefly), until it blindly rolls off the platform edge, descending into the deeper water.
After two hours, the bottom was probably 98% clean. There were a couple of 90 degree corners that it just couldn’t quite pick up, so I’m currently running it for another hour. Perhaps I will stir up those two corners next time to give it an assist. Lastly, our pool has two steps to the deeper water. The unit appears unable to crawl up the stairs. Five starts because it is convenient, simple, and effective.
2. WYBOT C2 Robotic Pool Cleaner
Helpful Review: I’m very happy with this unit. I have a large diving pool 40,000 gallons I dropped this unit it and it cleaning for three hours walls and floor and got a fair amount of leaves up. I had recently had a storm blow through so I had a lot of leaves in my pool and this did a very nice job cleaning it. I would guess two more cycles and the pool will be sparkling. The unit has three hours of battery life when it does. It’s cleaning cycle before needing a recharge, pretty straightforward to get up and running just give it a full charge open up the basket compartment because first use because it ships with some of those moisture beads that you need to remove, other than that, you’re up and running and ready to go I would recommend I hope you found this review helpful. The app will let you program different pools and say your cleaning preferences for each.
3. Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner
Helpful Review: We put this thing to work immediately because honestly, with it being priced at the top of the market I wanted to start getting my money worth right away! In cases you’re wondering we have extended pool seasons in Texas today is 10/5 and it was 95 degrees! The thing that wowed me the most about this robot is its amazing wall climbing and wall clearing abilities! Say goodbye to that dirty water line that you usually have to scrub out with man power!! Another cool feature is that thing that looks a handle isn’t actually a handle (even though it’s great for that), it’s a stabilizer that makes this machine stick to your wall like glue giving it the force it needs to clean your walls thoroughly! So the big question is, “is it worth the money?”…. I’d say heck yea! This is an early review so we’ll have to see about durability but based off what I’ve seen in 3 days, I think I’ve bought my last pool robot!! I’ve never had one last more than 2 summers but this thing is built well and it seems like it’s going to last!!
4. AIPER Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
Helpful Review: I did a lot of research on different pool robots, and I found this to be the most practical for my type of pool. I have an inground concrete pool (28′ x 15′) with a gradual slope to the middle (4′ deep on each end, 5′ in the middle) and a pebble tec surface. We had a pool cleaner with paddles and all it did was leave wheel tracks in the dust and dealing with the hose was annoying. We live in AZ where it is super dusty and stuff flies into the pool from neighborhood trees. I really wanted a cleaner that had a brush on the bottom and great suction that would not get hung up on the floor drains (there are 2 drains that are probably 1″H and 7″ diameter) or flip over unexpectedly.
It does take 6 hours to charge but I can usually plan when I need it. I had read other reviews where some people charged it half the time and then ran it, I haven’t tried that. It runs for about 80 minutes on a full charge. I submerge it in the water while holding onto the rope, then turn it on, and lower it to the bottom. It takes off and does its job. I’ve used it weekly since March and no complaints. It picks up sand, pebbles, (we just had an acid wash done and didn’t realize how many loose pebbles were on the bottom till I ran it) leaves, tree needles, seeds, etc. As for picking up dust, it picks it up but it does get out.
Initially, I had some struggles with the right cleaning setting, but I have it to where it does a fantastic job. For my rectangle pool, using the setting of 0 on one end and 20 on the other, the robot was not covering all of the areas. Seems like the reason was because it could roll up the sides slightly and the water would get under it and sweep it in a different direction causing it to go over the same area for like 15 minutes. I changed the setting to what is used for oval pools (20 degrees left on one end and 20 degrees right on the other end) and now it covers all areas. So far, very happy with this and no complaints. I love this thing, worth the money for the convenience that it offers.
5. PAXCESS Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
Helpful Review: I’ve gotta say, I’m really impressed with this little monster. I’ve had it for just over a week and used it several times to clean my 16′ x 32′ rectangular pool. The pool is 3′ deep at both ends and 5′ deep in the middle, so the slope falls well within the specified 15-degree limit. My wife named the little guy Herbie, because he looks like the Love Bug from the movie. My pool usually collects ash tree leaves, pine needles, and fine desert dust—and this robot picks it all up without a problem. I’ve always used pressure-side cleaners before, from Ray Vac to Polaris 360, and this robot cleans at least as well as those within its 90-minute cycle.
I do give it a little help by brushing the silt out of the pool corners beforehand. When it reaches the radius at the base of the walls, its suction gates can sit too high to pick up everything. That said, I can’t say for sure it wouldn’t eventually scatter and collect the dust on its own—I still need to try a full run without brushing. But as for the leaves and pine needles on the pool floor, they’re all gone within 90 minutes. As for limitations: it doesn’t climb walls beyond the radius at the base, won’t get onto steps or ledges, and doesn’t scrub surfaces.
It has a single, stationary brush that helps with debris collection but not actual scrubbing. It also doesn’t map the pool; its movement depends on the directional settings you choose for its two jets. It took some experimenting to get the settings right—at first, it was spending 90% of its time in just one half of the pool—but after about an hour of watching and adjusting, it now covers the whole area. It doesn’t stay in the pool or run on a timer. When you want it to clean, you drop it in, let it run, and then remove it after 90 minutes. It usually stops near the edge, where you can grab the string or handle—though sometimes I need to use a pole to reach it, which isn’t a big deal.
Then I just hose it off and place it back on the charger. It’s ready to go again in about four hours. At about half the price of a pressure-side cleaner and about a third the cost of a plug-in robotic cleaner, I think it performs at least as well as the former and probably nearly as well as the latter—assuming you don’t mind manually starting it each time. Cleaning it out is easy, too. Other reviewers have shown pictures of the screen and holding area, and both are the full size of the chassis, so there’s plenty of filter space and debris capacity.
Like with all rechargeable devices, I expect the battery to degrade eventually, and I’m hoping replacement batteries will be available (maybe they already are—I haven’t checked). Overall, for the price, and as long as you don’t mind brushing the walls and steps occasionally, this is a great little cleaner. I’m very satisfied with my purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is a robotic pool cleaner, and how does it work?
A robotic pool cleaner is an automatic device that uses electric power and internal motors to move around your pool and collect debris. It operates independently of your pool’s filtration system and uses built-in filters to trap dirt, leaves, and small particles.
Do I need a specific type of robotic cleaner for my pool shape or size?
Yes. Some robotic cleaners are better suited for larger pools or those with complex shapes. Be sure to check the product specifications for maximum pool length and features like navigation or mapping systems to ensure it can cover your entire pool efficiently.
Will it clean the pool walls and steps too?
Not all robotic pool cleaners can climb walls or clean steps. Basic models usually clean the floor only, while more advanced models can handle walls and even the waterline. If this is important to you, look for models with wall-climbing capabilities.
Can I leave the robotic cleaner in the pool all the time?
No. Most manufacturers recommend removing the cleaner from the pool after each cleaning cycle to extend its lifespan and avoid unnecessary wear on the motor and battery.
How often should I run my robotic pool cleaner?
It depends on how frequently your pool gets dirty. For most residential pools, running it two to three times a week during swimming season is sufficient. If your pool is surrounded by trees or gets heavy use, you might run it more often.
Does it need to be connected to my pool’s pump or filtration system?
No. Robotic pool cleaners operate independently. They have their own internal motor, filtration system, and power source (either plug-in or rechargeable battery).
Are robotic pool cleaners safe for all pool surfaces?
Most are safe for vinyl, fiberglass, gunite, and concrete surfaces, but always check the manufacturer’s recommendations. Some models are specifically designed for certain pool surfaces.
How do I clean and maintain my robotic pool cleaner?
After each use, remove the filter canister or bag, rinse it thoroughly with a hose, and let it dry before the next use. Regularly inspect the brushes and tracks for wear and remove any tangled debris.
Do robotic pool cleaners require professional installation?
No. They are designed to be plug-and-play. You simply turn them on, place them in the pool, and let them run. Some models may need a quick setup or calibration, but no professional installation is required.
Are battery-powered robotic cleaners as effective as corded models?
Battery-powered models offer more convenience and less clutter but may have shorter runtimes and less power than corded versions. However, many newer battery-powered models perform just as well for medium-sized residential pools.
