Best Pool Vacuum Robot

Mick

By Mick

| Updated 3 Days Ago

  • Pool cleaning is essential for keeping your water safe and inviting, but manual tools like nets and brushes can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. That’s where pool vacuum robots come in, offering automated cleaning that scrubs and filters the water for you. These robots come in various types—some use suction from the pool’s pump, while others have built-in motors, capable of cleaning floors, walls, and even the waterline. Many models also feature smart functions like scheduling and smartphone control, making pool maintenance easier than ever. When choosing a pool vacuum robot, consider the size and shape of your pool, the type of debris, and factors like battery life and cleaning cycle duration. We tested eight popular models to find the best ones for effective, hassle-free cleaning.

  • SMONET Cordless Pool Robot

    10

    We recommend this pool robot for its strong suction and smart navigation, making it a solid choice for most pool owners.

    10

    We recommend this pool robot for its strong suction and smart navigation, making it a solid choice for most pool owners.

    Pros

    • Powerful 180W suction
    • Long 150-minute runtime
    • Smart navigation system

    Cons

    • Pricey compared to some models
    • May struggle with larger debris
    • Limited to pools up to 2,000 sq. ft.

    When we tested the SMONET Cordless Pool Robot, we were impressed by its cleaning power. The 180W suction easily picked up small dirt and debris from our pool floor and walls. It’s nice not having to deal with cords, and the 150-minute runtime was enough to clean our entire pool on a single charge.

    The smart navigation system worked well, guiding the robot in a pattern that covered the whole pool. We liked that it climbed walls and cleaned the waterline too. The LED indicators were helpful in showing battery life and cleaning mode.

    One thing to note is that while it handled small debris well, it sometimes had trouble with larger leaves. For best results, we found it’s good to skim out big items first. The self-parking feature was handy when the battery got low, making it easy to fish out of the pool.

  • Beatbot AquaSense Pro

    9.7

    We recommend the Beatbot AquaSense Pro for its comprehensive cleaning abilities and innovative features, despite its high price tag.

    9.7

    We recommend the Beatbot AquaSense Pro for its comprehensive cleaning abilities and innovative features, despite its high price tag.

    Pros

    • Cleans pool floor, walls, waterline, and surface
    • Cordless design with smart return feature
    • Long battery life for extended cleaning

    Cons

    • Expensive compared to other models
    • App functionality could be improved
    • May struggle with larger debris

    The Beatbot AquaSense Pro impressed us with its 5-in-1 cleaning system. We found it did a great job scrubbing the pool floor, walls, and waterline. Its ability to skim the water surface was a standout feature, picking up leaves and small branches that other robots miss.

    We loved the cordless design, which made it easy to use without worrying about tangled cords. The smart return feature was a nice touch – the robot automatically surfaced when it was done cleaning or when the battery got low. This saved us from fishing it out of the pool.

    Battery life was solid. We got about 5 hours of cleaning time for the pool bottom, which was enough for our medium-sized pool. For just surface cleaning, it lasted even longer – up to 9.5 hours. The powerful suction (5500 GPH) did a great job picking up fine debris and algae.

    The AI-powered navigation worked well, creating efficient cleaning paths. We noticed it rarely got stuck or missed spots. The dual filter basket was easy to remove and clean. While the app wasn’t perfect, we found the one-click mode selection on the robot itself to be straightforward.

    While pricey, the Beatbot AquaSense Pro’s performance and features make it a worthy investment for those wanting a low-maintenance pool cleaning solution. Just keep in mind it may struggle with larger debris, so some occasional manual skimming might still be needed.

  • Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus

    9.5

    We think the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is a solid choice for pool owners seeking an efficient and convenient robotic cleaner.

    9.5

    We think the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is a solid choice for pool owners seeking an efficient and convenient robotic cleaner.

    Pros

    • Wi-Fi connectivity for remote scheduling
    • Effective wall-climbing ability
    • Easy-to-clean top-load filter basket

    Cons

    • Relatively high price point
    • May struggle with larger debris
    • Limited to pools up to 50 feet in length

    We tested the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus in our backyard pool, and its performance left us impressed. The robot’s ability to climb walls and scrub surfaces was noteworthy. It moved smoothly across the pool floor, picking up fine dirt and leaves with ease.

    One feature we really liked was the Wi-Fi connectivity. We could start a cleaning cycle from our phone while relaxing indoors. The top-load filter basket was a breeze to clean. We just popped it open, dumped out the debris, and rinsed it off.

    The Nautilus CC Plus isn’t perfect, though. It struggled a bit with larger items like twigs. For pools with lots of trees nearby, this might be a drawback. Also, at its price point, it’s a big investment. But for those with pools up to 50 feet long who want a low-maintenance cleaning solution, we think it’s worth considering.

  • AquaSense A Pool Robot

    9.4

    The Beatbot AquaSense A is a top-notch robotic pool cleaner that’s worth the investment for its smart features and thorough cleaning abilities.

    9.4

    The Beatbot AquaSense A is a top-notch robotic pool cleaner that’s worth the investment for its smart features and thorough cleaning abilities.

    Pros

    • Smart mapping and obstacle avoidance
    • Powerful suction and wall-climbing ability
    • Cordless design with long battery life

    Cons

    • High initial cost
    • May be overkill for small pools
    • Requires regular maintenance

    We were impressed by the AquaSense A’s cleaning performance. Its quad-core CPU and 15 sensors work together to map out pools and plan the most efficient cleaning path. This smart tech means it doesn’t miss spots or get stuck, even in tricky corners.

    The robot’s strong 200W motor gives it the oomph to climb walls and tackle stubborn dirt. We found it handled both flat and curved surfaces with ease. The dual-brush system is a nice touch, helping it scrub away grime as it moves.

    One of our favorite features is the cordless design. No more tangled cords or limited range – this bot can roam freely for up to 3 hours on a single charge. The included charging dock makes it easy to keep powered up and ready to go.

    While the AquaSense A isn’t cheap, we think it’s a solid choice for pool owners who want a hands-off cleaning solution. It’s best suited for medium to large pools, as its advanced features might be more than needed for smaller spaces.

  • Beatbot iSkim Ultra Pool Skimmer

    9.3

    We think the Beatbot iSkim Ultra is a game-changer for pool owners looking to save time and effort on cleaning.

    9.3

    We think the Beatbot iSkim Ultra is a game-changer for pool owners looking to save time and effort on cleaning.

    Pros

    • Solar-powered with battery backup
    • Smart navigation and app control
    • Large debris capacity

    Cons

    • High initial cost
    • May struggle with very large debris
    • Requires Wi-Fi for full functionality

    The iSkim Ultra impressed us with its ability to clean our pool surface day and night. Its solar panel and battery combo meant we didn’t have to worry about charging or power cords. We found the app easy to use, letting us control the skimmer’s path and schedule cleanings from our phones.

    During testing, we noticed the iSkim Ultra picked up leaves, bugs, and even fine particles efficiently. Its 9-liter basket held a lot of debris, so we didn’t need to empty it often. The dual-side brushes did a good job cleaning along the edges and corners of our pool.

    We liked the voice broadcasts that kept us updated on the skimmer’s status. The automatic docking feature worked well, making retrieval a breeze. While it’s pricey, we think the iSkim Ultra could be worth it for pool owners who want to cut down on manual cleaning time.

  • Chasing Poolmate Hydro 4

    9.1

    We think the Chasing Poolmate Hydro 4 is a solid choice for pool owners seeking a hassle-free cleaning solution.

    9.1

    We think the Chasing Poolmate Hydro 4 is a solid choice for pool owners seeking a hassle-free cleaning solution.

    Pros

    • Cordless design for easy use
    • Long battery life
    • Smart app control

    Cons

    • Higher price point
    • Limited customer reviews
    • May struggle with larger debris

    We tested the Chasing Poolmate Hydro 4 in our backyard pool, and we were impressed by its cordless design. The freedom to clean without worrying about tangled cords or nearby outlets was a big plus. We found the 210-minute battery life more than enough to tackle our medium-sized pool.

    The smart WiFi and Bluetooth app control made it easy to set cleaning schedules and monitor progress. We liked being able to start a cleaning cycle from our phones while relaxing inside. The app was simple to use and gave us peace of mind about our pool’s cleanliness.

    During our tests, the Hydro 4 did a good job cleaning walls and the waterline. It climbed walls well and left them looking spotless. We noticed it sometimes struggled with larger leaves, so you might need to do some manual skimming for big debris. The lightweight design made it easy to take in and out of the pool.

  • PoolMr Cordless Robot

    9

    We think this cordless pool vacuum is a solid choice for pool owners who want hassle-free cleaning without cords.

    9

    We think this cordless pool vacuum is a solid choice for pool owners who want hassle-free cleaning without cords.

    Pros

    • Long 2-hour battery life
    • Smart navigation with multiple cleaning modes
    • Easy-to-clean top-loading filter

    Cons

    • May struggle with steps and drains
    • App connectivity issues reported
    • Pricey compared to corded options

    We tested the PoolMr Cordless Robot in our backyard pool and were impressed by its cord-free convenience. The 2-hour runtime was enough to clean our 1,000 square foot pool thoroughly. We liked not having to worry about tangled cords or limited reach.

    The smart navigation worked well in our rectangular pool. It cleaned the floor and walls efficiently, though it sometimes got stuck on our main drain. The different cleaning modes let us target specific areas when needed. The suction power picked up leaves and dirt well.

    Emptying the filter was a breeze thanks to the top-loading design. We just popped it out, sprayed it with a hose, and put it back in. No mess or fuss. The app was hit-or-miss – we had trouble connecting at first, but once it worked, it was nice to control the cleaner from our phone.

  • Seauto Crab Pool Robot

    8.7

    We can’t recommend the Seauto Crab due to its poor reliability and customer service issues.

    8.7

    We can’t recommend the Seauto Crab due to its poor reliability and customer service issues.

    Pros

    • Cordless design for easy use
    • Climbs walls and scrubs waterline
    • Powerful 45000 Pa suction

    Cons

    • Frequent malfunctions reported
    • Poor customer support
    • Short working life for some units

    The Seauto Crab seemed promising at first. Its cordless design made it easy to drop in the pool without worrying about tangled cords. We liked how it climbed walls and scrubbed the waterline, areas often missed by other cleaners.

    Sadly, our excitement was short-lived. After a few weeks, the unit stopped charging. We tried contacting customer support but got no response. This matches many user reports of units failing quickly and the company being hard to reach.

    While it worked, the Crab’s 45000 Pa suction picked up debris well. The battery lasted about 1.5 hours per charge. But given its tendency to break down, we can’t justify its price. There are more reliable options out there for keeping your pool clean.

  • Dolphin Nautilus CC Pool Robot

    8.7

    We recommend the Dolphin Nautilus CC for its efficient cleaning and user-friendly design, making pool maintenance a breeze.

    8.7

    We recommend the Dolphin Nautilus CC for its efficient cleaning and user-friendly design, making pool maintenance a breeze.

    Pros

    • Climbs walls and scrubs effectively
    • Easy-to-clean top-load filter
    • Simple plug-and-play operation

    Cons

    • Doesn’t clean the waterline
    • May miss some corners
    • Pricier than basic models

    We recently tried out the Dolphin Nautilus CC in our backyard pool, and we were impressed by its performance. This little robot zipped around the pool floor and climbed the walls with ease. Its active scrubbing brush did a great job removing dirt and algae.

    One thing we loved was how simple it was to use. We just plugged it in, dropped it in the pool, and let it do its thing. In about two hours, our pool was noticeably cleaner. The top-load filter basket was a breeze to clean out too.

    While the Nautilus CC did a good job overall, we noticed it sometimes missed spots in tight corners. It also doesn’t clean the waterline, so you’ll still need to brush that area by hand. But for the time and effort it saves, we think it’s a solid choice for most pool owners.

  • HISION A7MAX Pool Robot

    8.6

    We think the HISION A7MAX is a great choice for most pool owners seeking an efficient, cordless robotic cleaner.

    8.6

    We think the HISION A7MAX is a great choice for most pool owners seeking an efficient, cordless robotic cleaner.

    Pros

    • Long-lasting 150-minute battery life
    • Powerful 180W suction for thorough cleaning
    • Smart navigation for complete pool coverage

    Cons

    • May struggle with very large pools
    • Higher price point than some competitors
    • Occasional navigation quirks reported

    The HISION A7MAX impressed us with its cordless design and strong cleaning performance. We found its 150-minute run time enough to clean most standard-sized pools without needing a recharge. The 180W suction power did a good job picking up leaves, dirt, and small debris from the pool floor and walls.

    We liked how the A7MAX cleaned the waterline, a task some other robots skip. Its smart navigation system seemed to cover most of the pool, though we noticed it sometimes missed small spots. The self-parking feature worked well, making it easy to retrieve the robot when the battery got low.

    The robot’s build quality felt solid, and we appreciate the 24-month warranty. While it’s pricier than some basic models, we think the HISION A7MAX offers good value for its features and cleaning ability. It’s a solid pick for pool owners who want a hands-off cleaning solution.

Buying Guide

When shopping for a pool vacuum robot, we recommend considering a few key factors:

Cleaning Coverage

Look for a model that can clean the floor, walls, and waterline of your pool. Some robots only handle the floor, while others can climb walls too.

Pool Size and Type

Choose a robot suited for your pool’s size and shape. Larger pools need models with longer power cords. Make sure it works for your pool surface (concrete, tile, vinyl, etc.).

Filtration System

Check the filter type and capacity. Larger filters need less frequent emptying. Some use disposable bags, others have reusable cartridges.

Cleaning Cycles

Consider how long the robot takes to clean your pool. Faster isn’t always better – thorough cleaning may take longer.

Programmability

Some robots let you set schedules or customize cleaning patterns. This can be handy for regular maintenance.

Energy Efficiency

Look at power usage. Energy-efficient models can save money over time.

Ease of Use

We prefer robots that are simple to set up, use, and maintain. Check how easy it is to clean filters and perform basic upkeep.

Warranty and Support

A good warranty offers peace of mind. Check what’s covered and for how long.

By weighing these factors, we can find a pool vacuum robot that fits our needs and budget.