Some individuals claim that a robotic pool cleaner surpasses a suction-side or pressure-side pool cleaner. In general, a pool robot offers a convenient solution to the challenging task of maintaining a clean swimming pool. Unlike other automatic pool cleaners, a pool robot doesn’t require a pool pump or a booster pump to operate. However, it’s worth noting that robotic pool cleaners are typically pricier compared to suction-side or pressure-side automatic pool cleaners. Nevertheless, if you’re interested, you can check out my guide on buying robotic pool cleaners to discover some of the top options available for purchase online.
Should you consider purchasing a pool robot?
There are several reasons why you should consider buying a pool robot. Firstly, suction-side pool automatic cleaners are the most affordable and easy to install. They are connected to the suction-side of the pool pump filtration system and are suitable for most pools. However, they may not be powerful enough for larger pools and require regular cleaning of the pool filter to function properly.
On the other hand, pressure-side automatic pool cleaners are more expensive to buy and install. They require an extra booster pump for water pressure, making them more powerful but also more costly to run and maintain. They have more moving parts and a separate debris bag that needs cleaning after each use.
In contrast, a robotic pool cleaner operates independently without the need for a pool pump or booster pump. It has its own power supply and is easy to install and operate. It has its own internal pump motor and debris bags or cartridge filters, which need to be emptied after each cleaning cycle.
Although robotic pool cleaners are the most expensive option, they are highly efficient at cleaning large pools. So, if you’re looking for a hassle-free and efficient way to keep your pool clean, a pool robot is definitely worth considering.
In this buying guide, I’ll try my best to talk about the most suitable robotic pool cleaners for different swimming pool scenarios. Let’s find out which one is the best fit for your needs!
Best Robotic Pool Cleaner For Above-Ground Pool
In my opinion, the Dolphin E10 could be the top choice for an above-ground pool cleaner. Specifically designed for above-ground swimming pools up to 30 feet long, it comes equipped with an active scrubbing brush and convenient top load filters for effortless maintenance. If you’re interested, you can find my detailed review of the Dolphin E10 by clicking here.
Alternatively, you might want to consider the Dolphin Escape. This robotic above-ground pool cleaner boasts a 40-foot floating cable and is capable of cleaning pool sizes up to 33 feet in length. It offers impressive features like an active scrubbing brush, dual motors, continuous rubber tracks, smart navigation, and a top-loading filter basket. To delve deeper into its capabilities, feel free to check out my Dolphin Escape review here.
Best Robotic Pool Cleaner For In-Ground Pool
I personally find the Dolphin Nautilus series robotic pool cleaners (I reviewed them here) to be the best choice for cleaning in-ground residential swimming pools.
Take the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus, for instance. It comes with top-loading filters, which is an improvement from the earlier models that had bottom-loading filters. This particular model is designed to clean both the floor and walls of in-ground swimming pools that are up to 50 feet long. Its cable is equipped with an anti-tangle swivel, ensuring that it doesn’t get tangled up while cleaning. Even though it doesn’t have a remote control or Wi-Fi capabilities, I still prefer it. After all, it’s an automatic robotic pool cleaner, so it should be able to clean the pool without me having to control it like a remote-controlled submarine.
In summary, the Nautilus CC Plus is a highly popular pool robot for in-ground swimming pools, and you can easily purchase it from online retailers. You may check current pricing for the Nautilus CC Plus on Amazon (paid link).
Best Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner For Above And In-Ground Pools
The AIPER Seagull SE offers a simple and convenient solution for keeping your pool clean. With no messy hoses or tangled cords, this cordless robotic pool cleaner makes pool cleaning quite easy. Just turn it on, place it in the water, and let it do the work automatically. The newly designed battery charges fully in just 2.5 hours, allowing for over 90 minutes of cleaning time.
This robotic pool cleaner is recommended for both above-ground pools and in-ground pools up to 33 feet in length, with flat bottoms and no slopes. Equipped with dual-drive motors, it efficiently collects dirt and debris. The two independent brushes ensure a deep and thorough cleaning.
Once the battery is low or the cleaning cycle is complete, the Seagull SE automatically stops at the pool’s edge, making it easy to retrieve using the included hook, without having to get your hands or feet wet. Shop now on Amazon (paid link).
Best Robotic Pool Cleaner For Leaves And Large Debris
Looking for a robotic pool cleaner that can handle large pieces of debris like tree leaves? Look no further than the Dolphin Premier! With its micro-filter cartridges for fine particles and filter bags for catching larger debris, it offers the best of both worlds when it comes to filtering.
Simply insert the large filter bags when you need to remove leaves or other big debris from your pool. Just keep in mind that even the Dolphin Premier can’t handle a palm tree frond that has fallen into the pool.
For more information about this amazing pool robot, feel free to check out my Dolphin Premier review!
Best Robotic Pool Cleaner With Wi-Fi And App
The Dolphin Sigma is a high-priced robotic pool cleaner designed for in-ground pools. It comes with Wi-Fi and smartphone app features, making it convenient to control and monitor. With its anti-tangle swivel cable, it ensures hassle-free cleaning.
This robotic pool cleaner is suitable for pools up to 50 feet in size. Equipped with scrubbing brushes and top-loading filter cartridges, it effectively eliminates dirt, algae, and bacteria. It even cleans the waterline of the pool.
If you want to learn more about the Dolphin Sigma, feel free to read my detailed Dolphin Sigma review.
Best Robotic Pool Cleaner With Remote Control
Consider the Polaris 9550 4WD Sport as an option, as it comes with a unique motion sensing remote control.
Instead of relying on directional buttons, you can simply use hand motions to guide the pool robot in any direction you desire.
If you want to learn more about its features and performance, feel free to read my detailed review of the Polaris 9550 Sport.
Best Robotic Pool Cleaner For Gunite Pool
What exactly is a gunite pool? Well, a gunite pool is a type of pool that is constructed using a mixture of cement mortar, which is then applied to a rebar framework using a pressure hose system. This application process results in a rough surface that needs to be plastered in order to achieve a smooth finish.
Now, when it comes to choosing the best pool robot for gunite pools, I must admit that I don’t have much personal experience with them. However, based on my limited knowledge, I would suggest considering the Dolphin Cayman as a potentially affordable option for a large in-ground gunite pool.
If you’re interested, you can read my review on the Dolphin Cayman for more information.
Best Robotic Pool Cleaner For Vinyl Pools
In my opinion, most pool robots are designed to clean vinyl pool surfaces. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check the product descriptions and reviews before making a purchase.
The most important thing to consider when choosing an automatic pool cleaner for vinyl liners is that it should not cause any damage. Look for a pool robot with non-marring wheels or rubber tank tracks to ensure the vinyl liner stays intact. Additionally, make sure the housing of the cleaner doesn’t have any rough edges or sharp points. Avoid using an automatic pool cleaner that is specifically designed for concrete pool surfaces, as these cleaners are meant for rougher surfaces. Always check the product description to see if the manufacturer recommends it for vinyl liners.
Now, if you’re looking for the best robotic pool cleaner for vinyl pools, I’ve come across the Hayward SharkVac. It is sometimes suggested as an affordable option for cleaning vinyl liners. However, keep in mind that you may need to replace the brushes with foam rollers. Also, please note that the Hayward SharkVac is not suitable for above-ground vinyl pools. It is specifically designed for in-ground pools.
If you’d like to read my review on the Hayward SharkVac, click here.
Conclusion
I’ve provided some suggestions for pool robots based on my own research and what people are saying online. I hope you’re able to find the perfect robotic pool cleaner that meets all the specific requirements of your swimming pool. Thank you for taking the time to read this guide on buying a robotic pool cleaner.