Cleaning your pool yourself requires hours of work and involves sifting through debris such as bugs, leaves, and algae. While you can hire a professional pool cleaner, a robotic pool cleaner is often a more affordable option to stay on top of this task in the long run. Many robotic pool cleaners cost between $200 and $2,000, depending on their size, features, and Wi-Fi and mobile app connectivity. Our team evaluated the best robotic pool cleaners and narrowed down a list of the top five options.
Key Takeaways
- The Polaris VRX iQ+ Smart Robotic Pool Cleaner is our top pick for its innovative, app-controlled features and cleaning cycles, large cleaning area of up to 60 feet, and intelligent navigation around tricky obstacles.
- Robotic pool cleaners tend to cost $200–$2,000 on Amazon, depending on the features, technology, and filtering system.
- Pool size and surface cleaning options are the two most important factors to consider when shopping for a robotic cleaner, especially when deciding whether you want one that cleans the floors, walls, or pool surface only.
Top 5 Robotic Pool Cleaners
- Polaris VRX iQ+ Smart Robotic Pool Cleaner: Best Overall
- Dolphin Nautilus Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner: Best Scrubbing Power
- WYBOT Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner: Best Budget Model
- Dolphin Escape Robotic Pool Cleaner: Best Filtering
- Betta Automatic Robotic Pool Skimmer Cleaner: Best Pool Skimmer
Compare Top Robotic Pool Cleaners
The table below highlights our top picks for the best robotic pool cleaners.
| Product | Image | Surfaces Cleaned | Maximum Pool Length | Corded or Cordless |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Polaris VRX iQ+ Smart Robotic Pool CleanerCheck Price | | Floors and walls | 60 ft. | Corded |
Dolphin Nautilus Robotic Pool Vacuum CleanerCheck Price | | Floors and walls | 50 ft. | Corded |
WYBOT Cordless Robotic Pool CleanerCheck Price | | Floors | 67 ft. | Cordless |
Dolphin Escape Robotic Pool CleanerCheck Price |  | Floors and walls | 33 ft. | Cordless |
Betta Automatic Robotic Pool Skimmer CleanerCheck Price |  | Pool surface only (skimmer) | Not listed | Cordless |
Our Reviews of the Best Robotic Pool Cleaners
We prioritized robotic pool cleaners that offer a deep clean with user-friendly features and easy-to-empty debris baskets. We also prioritized finding a variety of price points suited to different homeowner budgets.
Best Overall
Polaris VRX iQ+ Smart Robotic Pool Cleaner
Good for: Homeowners interested in high-tech, effortless cleaning solutions for in-ground pools
This robotic pool cleaner features seven customizable cleaning cycles you can easily program from your phone, which is a perk if you like to “set it and forget it.” The Polaris iAquaLink app enables you to create your own pool cleaning schedule, select targeted spot cleaning options, and monitor your pool’s temperature, making this model a mostly hands-off experience.
Pros and Cons of Polaris VRX iQ+ Smart Robotic Pool Cleaner
- Features a proprietary easy-lift removal system that sends the pool cleaner to the surface with one touch
- Has an illuminated, transparent debris canister so you can easily see when to empty the cleaner
- Offers seven different cleaning cycles, including a waterline-only clean
- Weighs 44 pounds, which can make it cumbersome to move around
- Certain features may not work without a strong Wi-Fi connection
Key Features
- Surfaces Cleaned: Floors and walls
- Maximum Pool Length: 60 feet
- Type: Corded
What People Are Saying About The Polaris VRX iQ+ Smart Robotic Pool Cleaner
Customers on Amazon say the Polaris easily navigates their in-ground pools, cleaning the sides and walls, and sucking up all the debris it comes across. Many reviewers appreciate the compact debris basket and the notification that lets you know when it’s full. Some customers have mentioned experiencing an error code that often falls outside the manufacturer’s warranty, making the issue challenging to address without costly repairs.
Best Scrubbing Power
Dolphin Nautilus Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner
Good for: Homeowners with irregular-shaped pools or pools that accumulate a lot of debris
With deep waterline scrubbing, this powerful robotic vacuum cleaner can tackle your pool walls and eliminate buildup using its active scrub brush. This robotic cleaner features dual drive steering that guides it around pool corners and other irregular shapes, so you won’t have to worry about it getting stuck.
Pros and Cons of Dolphin Nautilus Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner
- Has a mobile app so you can set weekly timers, select cleaning cycles, and get alerts when the filter is full
- Features unique dual drive steering that navigates around obstacles and tight pool corners
- Has an easy-to-access reusable filter
- May feel heavier for some homeowners to lift at 24.6 pounds
- Powerful motor may suck up oversize debris
Key Features
- Surfaces Cleaned: Floors and walls
- Maximum Pool Length: 50 feet
- Type: Corded
What People Are Saying About The Dolphin Nautilus Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner
Customers on Amazon who like the Dolphin pool vacuum cleaner talk about its ability to navigate tricky corners and its strong suction abilities for dust and debris. Many reviewers seem pleased with this model’s ease of use and with the company’s level of customer service. However, unhappy reviewers note issues with this model getting stuck on pool steps and failing after two years of ownership.
Best Budget Model
WYBOT Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
Good for: Homeowners on a budget or looking for a user-friendly and lightweight model
This robotic cleaner impresses customers with its budget-friendly pricing and compact size, making it easy to store during the offseason. With a dual filter system and enhanced dual suction in its 2025 model, this robotic pool cleaner effectively picks up more leaves, debris, and sand while skillfully navigating around pool edges.
Pros and Cons of WYBOT Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
- Provides status updates with five different LED indicator colors to indicate charging, cleaning, or other maintenance needs
- Rapidly charges in only two-and-a-half hours
- Features a lightweight, compact, and cordless design
- Has a short working time of two hours
- Only suits flat-bottom pools without wrinkles and inground pools with less than 15-degree slopes
Key Features
- Surfaces Cleaned: Floors
- Maximum Pool Length: 67 feet
- Type: Cordless
What People Are Saying About The WYBOT Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
Amazon customers satisfied with this product say it’s easy to set up and use, surprisingly thorough with its cleaning, and maneuvers around pools easily without getting stuck. Those unhappy with the robot have shared issues with it breaking down—although this product has a limited amount of 1-star reviews overall.
Best Filtering
Dolphin Escape Robotic Pool Cleaner
Good for: Homeowners seeking a deep clean for pools that gather a lot of debris
Whether your pool is located near trees or you live in a storm-prone area, this model’s huge top-loading filters, high-speed scrubbing brushes, and dual motors give it the power to tackle dirty pools with a lot of debris. Dolphin’s smart navigation scanning software uses algorithms to determine the most efficient cleaning path for your pool, avoiding ladders and drains, ensuring your robot cleaner stays on track.
Pros and Cons of Dolphin Escape Robotic Pool Cleaner
- Features an oversized cartridge that can hold up to 60% more debris than most models
- Has a unique scrubbing brush that deep cleans tricky contaminants, debris, and algae
- Only weighs 14 pounds, making it easy to pick up and clean
- Use is limited to a maximum pool length of 33 feet
- May lose stability around ladders or skimmers
Key Features
- Surfaces Cleaned: Floors and walls
- Maximum Pool Length: 33 feet
- Type: Cordless
What People Are Saying About The Dolphin Escape Robotic Pool Cleaner
Customers who enjoy this product say it’s efficient, easy to use, and performs well in removing both large and small debris. However, unhappy Amazon reviewers highlight issues with customer service and the product’s longevity.
Best Pool Skimmer
Betta Automatic Robotic Pool Skimmer Cleaner
Good for: Homeowners in sunny areas who prefer efficiency and easy pool maintenance
This solar-powered smart pool skimmer continually removes debris, such as pet hair, leaves, dust, pollen, and insects, from your pool’s surface, while navigating corners and shapes with ease due to its Salt Chlorine Tolerant SCT Motors. It can clean both saltwater and freshwater and work overnight, ensuring your pool is always clean. However, it needs to remain in the pool for 5–6 hours a day in direct sunlight to stay charged.
Pros and Cons of Betta Automatic Robotic Pool Skimmer Cleaner
- Features ultraviolet (UV)-resistant coating for protection against sun damage
- Effective in both saltwater and freshwater pools due to its Salt Chlorine Tolerant motors
- Has a removable large fine-mesh debris basket with a top handle for easy cleaning
- No battery backup options for overcast or cloudy days
- Some customer reviews say the cleaner has a short lifespan
Key Features
- Surfaces Cleaned: Pool surface
- Maximum Pool Length: Not listed
- Type: Cordless
What People Are Saying About The Betta Automatic Robotic Pool Skimmer Cleaner
Many Amazon reviewers praise the Betta for its ability to maneuver around irregular spots, its 24/7 cleaning ability, and easy-to-empty basket. Some customers have issues with the Betta’s lifespan, citing that it works well for only a few months to a year before it begins operating less reliably. Overall, 81% of reviewers give this cleaner 5 out of 5 stars, with many sharing that it is a dream for collecting leaves and debris, saving them extensive time on pool cleaning.
Robotic Pool Cleaner Buying Guide
Your pool cleaner works for as long as your pool is open for the season, saving you the hassle of maintenance cleaning. Here’s a look at the main factors to consider when shopping for a new pool cleaner or vacuum.
Common Robotic Pool Cleaner Features
A standard pool cleaner moves along a pool’s floor and walls using wheels or tracks that allow it to capture debris inside filters. Modern robotic pool cleaners also offer a wide variety of features for added convenience. Here’s more information about some of the top features to consider:
- Wi-Fi compatibility: Many newer and high-end robotic pool cleaners can sync with your home’s Wi-Fi, allowing you to control and monitor settings using a dedicated app. If your pool is located farther away from your back door, this can save you the trip to check on cleaning progress in person. Many brands also offer mobile apps so you can easily set cleaning cycles and weekly routines, as well as check if your robot cleaner needs to get emptied.
- Mapping: High-end robotic pool cleaners now use technology to map a pool’s layout to ensure no spot is missed. This is similar to the technology used in many robot vacuums for your home’s floors.
- Agility and longevity: Carefully read details about a robotic pool cleaner’s ability to handle stairs, corners, and other obstacles that could cause it to get stuck in the middle of a cleaning process. For battery-operated cleaners, it’s easy for the battery to run out before you notice the device hasn’t been moving, so also check estimated run times before purchasing.
- Quality brushes: Pay attention to the scrubbing brushes on a robotic pool cleaner. Powerful rotating brushes are essential for removing staining, algae, and pollen buildup from pool walls.
- Filter size and location: A larger filter enables pool cleaners and vacuums to collect more debris during each cleaning session. Some designs also feature easy-to-reach, top-loading filters that make the cleaner easier to empty and clean.
Terms To Know for Robotic Pool Cleaners
Here’s a quick overview of the basic terms you’ll need to know when shopping for and comparing robotic pool cleaners:
- Cleaning capabilities: This refers to a robotic pool cleaner’s ability to traverse and clean the floor and walls of a pool, including any steps and slopes. Most robotic pool cleaners that can clean pool walls can also clean the waterline.
- Maximum pool length: This figure indicates the largest pool size a cleaner is designed to effectively clean, ensuring proper coverage of the floor, walls, and sometimes the waterline. Using a cleaner designed for your pool’s specific size helps ensure efficiency and prevents strain on its motor and navigation systems.
- Debris canister: Most robotic pool cleaners come with a canister equipped with a filter that traps and holds debris picked up while cleaning your pool. You’ll need to empty the canister and rinse the filter on a regular basis to keep your cleaner functioning optimally. Shopping for cleaners with top-load filters can make this task easier.
- Cordless versus corded: A corded pool cleaner requires a consistent power source, but often offers stronger suction and is suited for bigger or dirtier pools. Cordless models have no cord but require charging, which is why they’re usually lightweight and easy to pick up and move. Consider your pool’s size and the amount of debris it accumulates when choosing between a corded and cordless model.
Maintenance and Safety Considerations for Robotic Pool Cleaners
Modern robotic pool cleaners are largely self-sufficient, but require some occasional maintenance to work optimally and safely. Always check for objects that can damage the robot before using it in your pool, such as swim goggles or toys. Also, if you buy a corded model, consider the safest place for the cord, as it can create a tripping hazard. Keep the cord neatly rolled and away from popular walking zones when the robot cleaner is in use. Your owner’s manual should have specific maintenance and safety tips for your specific model.
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety
Many robotic pool cleaners use lithium-ion batteries, which contain heavy metals that can negatively affect humans and the environment. You should not disassemble the sealed battery compartment at any time. Always let a professional handle repairs or replacement of lithium battery units to avoid contact with harmful chemicals.
Regular Maintenance
Robotic pool cleaners require daily and regular maintenance to function optimally over time. Empty a robotic cleaner’s filtration bag or clean the filter cartridge after every use, preventing buildup over time, which can break your pool cleaner down and limit its capabilities. Many robots require rinsing with clean fresh water, but you’ll want to check the owner’s manual for the specific maintenance guidelines.
Other routine cleaning tasks include cleaning the impeller every few weeks, checking for tangled cables, and monitoring your pool cleaner for abnormal behavior, such as running into obstacles or shutting off before completing a cleaning cycle.
Storage
After purchasing your new pool cleaner, it’s important to follow manufacturer-specific instructions for storage and handling. Generally, homeowners should treat a robotic pool cleaner like any other type of electrical appliance or device. After draining and cleaning the robot based on the owner’s manual, store it in a cool, dry, and dark location where the temperature is consistent and regulated,
We also recommend a pool caddy that keeps a pool vacuum off the ground. A caddy also ensures safe transport of the cleaner to and from its storage spot. When storing a pool cleaner in the winter, we recommend keeping the device indoors with a caddy cover. Dry, protected spaces, such as your pool shed or basement, work well for offseason storage.
Keep the Cord from Tangling
Cord tangling can stop a robotic cleaner in its tracks. If you don’t want to deal with this nuisance, consider opting for a cordless model. However, corded pool cleaners offer more powerful, uninterrupted cleaning based on our product review, which makes them the better choice for homeowners in areas with a lot of debris.
If you go with a corded pool cleaner, here’s how to keep the cord from tangling:
- Straighten after each use: After removing your robotic cleaner from the pool following each session, take time to gently spread the cord across your deck, patio, or lawn to remove any coiling that has formed as a result of the device’s movement.
- Start cleaning in the pool’s center: By dropping the robot to enter the pool at the center, you’ll prevent pulling the cord in different directions and angles.
- Spread the cord: Spread the cable across the pool water and evenly distribute it, rather than dropping it in a lump at one end.
- Don’t release the full cord: Only submerge as much of the power cord as needed. You can leave the rest of the cord next to the pool in a way that allows the robotic arm to pull in additional length. However, make sure the cord is clear from walking paths to prevent tripping.
FAQs About Robotic Pool Cleaners
What is the best robot vacuum for a pool?
Our pick for the best robot vacuum for a pool is the Polaris VRX iQ+ Smart Robotic Pool Cleaner. We chose this model for its advanced navigation technology, active scrubbing brushes, seven cleaning cycle options, and high customer reviews. However, it’s important to consider what you want for your pool specifically. For example, a cordless model may better suit your family if you’re concerned about creating a tripping hazard.
How long do robotic pool cleaners typically last?
Most robotic pool cleaners last between four and seven years, depending on how well you care for it. Cleaning out the cleaner’s filter basket, removing it from the pool water occasionally, and preventing debris buildup can extend its life.
Is a pool robot vacuum worth it?
Yes, a pool robot vacuum is worth it because it can cut down on the time spent cleaning your pool yourself. Plus, you can program a robotic cleaner to clean your pool based on its specific layout. Owners of large pools or pools with tricky-to-access areas can especially benefit from the personalized programming that robotic vacuum cleaners offer compared to standard suction-side or pressure-side models.
Robot vacuums also have self-contained filtration systems, allowing them to operate independently of your pool’s filter and pump. This puts less stress on your pool’s filtration system while effectively cleaning your pool.
Our Methodology
To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
- Initial research: Our research process began by generating a list of robotic pool cleaners with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars on Amazon. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
- Expert insights: Through years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
- Final product selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older products with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued items. From there, we pared the list down by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and do-it-yourself (DIY) enthusiasts for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products for the home, from doorbell cameras and dining room decor to circular saws and snow blowers.
Once we conclude the research and testing phases, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
