Best Robotic Pool Cleaners Reviews for 2018 – Ultimate Guide

A sparkling clean pool is an amazing, inviting place to be during the summer. However, it doesn’t get to this state by accident. You need a pool cleaner to ensure that all the dirt is cleaned regularly. Sadly, it might seem like a difficult task to choose the best robotic pool cleaner on the market today, but when you read this buying guide and the top robotic pool cleaner reviews, it will be very easy.

How to Choose the Right Best Robotic Pool Cleaners

Before you hit the market, you need to know how to choose the right cleaner for your pool. Therefore, here are a few tips to help you get started.

• Pool type – This is the major factor that you should consider when buying your device. Do you have an above ground or in-ground pool? This will help you buy the ideal robotic unit for your in-ground or above ground pool.
• Comfortable technology – Are you willing to try a more advanced unit that might come with different settings and a remote control? Or do you want a simple robotic machine with 2 or 3 cleaning settings that will get the job done?
• Budget – How much do intend to spend? Are you ready to spend more on a stronger cleaner for better cleaning power? Or save a few dollars and enjoy the same outcome from a cheaper one? Don’t break the bank to get a robotic pool cleaner.
• Filtration – A robotic pool cleaner works independently of your swimming pool’s filtration system. This means that there are no gears or hoses to connect to your pool’s pump or skimmer.
• Pool size – Another thing you should know is your pool size or dimensions. Some robotic devices work better for bigger sized pools, while others work better for smaller ones. Once you figure out this info, you will be able to narrow down your search.
• Pool surface – This is a vital step to choosing the perfect cleaner for your swimming pool. Some robotic cleaners might damage or destroy certain surfaces (such as vinyl) while others will sweep, clean, and filter all surface types. It will depend on the cleaner.
• Features – The different features you may choose might also affect your budget and even the total cost of operating your cleaner. Obviously, you will clean your pool better if the robotic device has more specified features such as out of water sensor, beach entry, vortex vacuum tech, and quick clean technology.

Top 10 Best Robotic Pool Cleaners on the Market

2017 Dolphin Premier In-Ground Robotic Pool Cleaner

Buy from Amazon.com

2017 Dolphin Premier is the best Dolphin ever. With a superb design and an additional level of efficiency, this model has set the standards high for the next series. It features a state-of-the-art DC motor and a clever multi-media filtration unit to offer you amazing experience while lowering energy use up to 87 %.

The unit offers 4 media types to provide the user with a wide range of choice. For the first time in history, no matter which media you choose, you will not be making a compromise. Select the perfect media for your pool. It features micro-filter for cleaning algae and fine dirt and oversized debris bag for leaves.

In addition, the cleaner has a patented 360-degree anti-tangle swivel cord that ensures your device doesn’t get stuck when in operation. It also boasts of Smart-Nav software that provides highly optimized coverage of your pool for better cleaning.

Pros

• Carrying bag included
• Effective unit
• 3 years warranty

Cons

• Terrible instructions

Aquabot Breeze IQ Wall Climbing Auto In-Ground Robotic Brush Pool Cleaner

Buy from Amazon.com

This is a smart robotic unit that uses AquaSmart tech to more effectively clean most pools in just two hours. The smart tech installed in the head of the cleaner allows the robot to clean the pool walls, waterline, and floor in a more systematic fashion, without wasting time. The product has a long 60 feet cable with patented Aquabot swivel for a tangle-free experience.

Furthermore, the cleaner has EZ to clean top entrance baskets that may filter down to two microns nominal and comes with a 2-year limited warranty. What is even amazing is that the unit doesn’t have vacuum poles or hoses to mess with the cleaning process. It is a self-contained unit with an internal drive, filtration, and pump system.

Not all swimming pool cleaners are equal and without a doubt, this is one of the top rated units on the market today. It offers crystal clear water with minimal chemicals.

Pros

• Great product
• User friendly
• Takes little time to the clean filter

Con

• Require lots of maintenance

Dolphin 99996323 Nautilus Robotic Pool Cleaner

Buy from Amazon.com

First, Dolphin Pool Cleaner is pretty light to carry around. It weighs only 33 pounds and thus easy to carry around. In addition, due to its light nature, the unit is easy to operate and offers better services. Furthermore, you may easily remove it, clean various parts, and reinstall it back within seconds.

The other amazing feature of this unit is that it’s quite efficient and reliable. It also comes with 2 types of filters which operate differently and are very easy to operate. You will realize that one filter is effective in removing fine particles while the other is suitable for removing large debris and leaves. Amazingly, its performance is astonishing, and you will rarely come across dirt after cleaning.

What is even amazing is that the robot has adopted an elongated power cord that works really well. In addition, the unit is quite stable and supports its entire cleaning chores with ease.

Pros

• Quiet operation
• Cheaper than most brands
• Works great

Con

• Lacks a handle

Dolphin 99996403-PC Nautilus Plus Robotic Pool Cleaner

Buy from Amazon.com

Installed with even more features as well as amazing cleaning power, the Dolphin 999964403 is a must have for small pools of up to 50 ft. in length. This latest pool cleaner boasts of CleverClean Tech, a software that thoroughly scans your pool to calculate the most reasonable path, regardless of the surface or shape of your pool, resulting in a shiny pool.

Nautilus Plus weekly timer enables the unit to automatically run its set 2-hour cycle at set intervals during the week. It also features extra-large top reach filter unit which is equipped with 2 full sets of filter magazines. This means that both small and large debris will be removed from your pool, leading to a cleaner swimming pool.

The other notable feature of this unit is the patented swivel cord. This cord allows your cleaner to rotate and spin a full 360-degree without any problem – no kinking or tangling.

Pros

• Works wonderfully
• Removes large particles
• Lightweight

Con

• Unreliable manufacturer customer support

Hayward RC9990GR Tiger Shark QC Auto Robotic Pool Cleaner

Buy from Amazon.com

With Hayward RC9990GR, you will save up to 94 percent on energy charges due to an energy-efficient TigerShark DC motor. This tech requires less energy compared to other pressure cleaners, making it the best value for the money. In addition, its effective cleaning pattern covers the entire swimming pool including the sides and bottom, all the way to the waterline.

It is very easy to operate and use this machine, all you need to do is take it out, deep it in your pool, and you leave it to do its job. It even features a convenient shut-off feature that automatically shut-down after three hours of cleaning.

Using its onboard computer, the unit determines the size of a swimming pool for a programmed energy saving cleaning prototype for a shinier pool all the times. This advanced unit scrubs and brushes while it vacuums reaching all corners of your swimming pool.

Pros

• Energy efficient
• Easy to clean the filter
• Cleans 99% of the pool

Con

• Flap doors remain open due to jammed sticks

Pentair 360032 Krauly Kreepy Prowler 830.0 In-ground Robotic Pool Cleaner

Buy from Amazon.com

The newly retouched creepy prowler 830 robotic cleaner for inground pools offers eco-friendly and superior cleaning to keep your pool spotlessly clean. Its latest design scrubs, filters, and vacuums cleaning your pool in just 2½ hours. It features a wireless remote for better control and enables you to schedule interval cleaning, even when you are not at home.

Furthermore, it features an auto-reverse feature which helps prevent it from hanging in corners and ladder and steps for continuous performance. The unit also boasts of an integrated filter that lowers run time of your pool’s filtration system, saving you energy costs and minimize wear and tear.

The unit also features convenient caddy for better handling as well as storage. It also vacuums all kind of dirt and helps to eliminate algae from your pool. Other notable features include plug-in convenience, no booster pump, no hoses, and require no installation.

Pros

• An awesome unit
• Has a remote control
• Very effective

Con

• Need emptying a lot

Maytronics Dolphin Triton 99996212 Plus Robotic Cleaner

Buy from Amazon.com

If you are searching for a high-quality pool unit that goes for under $1000, then you need to consider the Maytronics Dolphin Triton. The unit features a PowerStream tech that ensures better tile and wall cleaning like never before making it a great unit for walls. As the unit climbs up the wall, water is removed out in different directions forming a constant grip. This facilitated precise cleaning as it moves along the water line.

The Unit also features active brushing which means that its brushes spin 2 times the speed of an ordinary cleaner to dislodge even the toughest, stuck-to-the-wall dirt. This amazing unit also features power supply that has an updated Bluetooth ability to connect to your phone for better control.

Another great feature of this machine is the ergonomic body design that makes cleaning easier and lighter. It has a huge, hinged top cover that opens upward to show a large capacity filter bucket which is easy to remove and clean.

Pros

• Works pretty good
• Has a computer for guiding cleaning process
• Simple to run

Con

• Quite expensive

Polaris F9550 Sport In-Ground Robotic Pool Cleaner

Buy from Amazon.com

Polaris F9550 is an effective, inspirational four-wheel drive robotic pool cleaner. Its aquadynamic design combines inventive engineering, intelligence, and commanding style for a truly amazing cleaning of vinyl pools. The unit is fitted with Aqua-Trax tires for large pools cleaning and boasts of ActiveMotion Sensor Tech for unmatchable movement, even rough surfaces.

The unit features oscillating brushes that wash away stubborn stains and dirt and a Proprietary Vortex Vacuum Tech that enables the unit to pick up huge debris faster while marinating maximum suction. Dirt is easily eradicated from the top of the unit as it features a large capacity filter basket and a lid, eliminating the need for untidy bags.

In addition, the robot features forceful rear water force system that allows this unit to reach dirt under stairs and even tight spots while enhancing power to get the job done. What is even amazing is that the unit features a seven-day programmable timer, a motion sensing handheld remote, and pre-programmed cleaning patterns.

Pros

• Very effective
• Super quiet
• Cleans under stairs

Con

• Doesn’t last long

Dolphin Quantum In-Ground Robotic Pool Cleaner

Buy from Amazon.com

Dolphin in-ground pool cleaner takes its place as one of the best robotic cleaners for pebble tec. It features a groundbreaking Power Jet 3D mobility tech and boasts of a high level of efficiency that has never been seen before. This product is able to do more, consume less energy, and deliver more than before.

The product also features a highly effective, state-of-the-art DC motor that delivers an amazing user experience while minimizing power usage up to 87 percent. In a class of its own, the unit was designed from the ground up to be easier to operate and easier to own.

Pros

• Cool blue light
• Anti-tangle cord
• Consumes less power

Con

• Needs to be serviced by manufacturer

Aquabot AJET 122.0 Rover S2-50 Robotic Pool Cleaner

Buy from Amazon.com

Aquabot is for above ground pools and was designed to clean residential facilities to keep them sparkling clean. The unit micro-filter and vacuum debris, dirt, and other contaminations from your pool surface and cove. It also features an easy-to-stop access filter system with mesh or fine options and as well as fixed rotating brushes to help filter the tiniest of particles.

Other notable features include the industry leading aquabot pump, along 50 inches cable, an adjustable axle pin, and patented hydrobotic tech.

Pros

• Safe and reliable
• Save water, chemical, and energy
• Effective unit

Con

• Weak handle

What is a Robotic Pool Cleaner?

A robotic pool cleaner is a self-directed, low-voltage auto pool vacuum that cleans the walls, steps, and floor of your swimming pool. It runs on electricity, so you do not need to run your pool’s filter while it is cleaning. And it uses the power of suction (as opposed to water pressure) to clean up debris and dirt on the base of your pool.

To power this unit, a transformer is installed to a standard wall power source and a long (30-100 foot) power cord connects the transformer to the cleaner. The transformer drops the power to a much safer 24V DC from a dangerous 110/220V AC to power the unit in your pool.

How do a Robotic Pool Cleaner Work?

The robotic pool cleaner works through different principles.

Thinking through the Problem

A robotic pool cleaner is automated, which means that it does the cleaning on its own and only limited human intervention and control actions are needed. In your pool, dirt keeps getting collected on the pool surface and the water itself keeps getting dirty. This device scrubs your pool walls and surface without dirtying the water in your pool.

The Basic Concept

Your swimming pool water is kept clean by filter and pump system. The water is circulated via this system, unclean water is run through the system, dirt is sifted out, and clean water is then fed back into your pool. This is different from how a robotic cleaner cleans your pool. This unit scrubs the walls and floors without releasing the debris into the water, thus leading to better cleaning.

Power Supply

Initially, pool cleaners were attached to the filter and pump system and drew power from the same, but a robotic device has its own chargeable powering unit. Its chargeable unit needs to be kept above the pool and away from water so a perfect place near your pool should be prepared to place this unit to allow the cleaner to move throughout your pool.

Enhanced Functioning

In addition to cleaning the walls and floor, some of the robotic pool cleaners might also filter the water; the water keeps getting sucked in by these units and after being filtered, clean water is released to the pool. This reduces the cleaning work of the water circulation pump, and hence, superior cleanliness is released.

Mode of Operation

These robotic units traverse on the surface of your pool in a random manner and even traverse on the walls and collect the dirt from your pool’s wall.

What are the Benefits of Using Robotic Pool Cleaners?

When contemplating buying a robotic pool cleaner, it’s always a great thing to look at how the device will benefit you and your pocket in the future. To achieve this, all you should do is go back in time and see what labor intensive operation it used to be when cleaning a pool as opposed to using this device today.

In addition, a robotic cleaner has these benefits:

Easy Operation

To begin, you don’t need to do anything to get this unit started – you only deep it into your pool and switch it on. No hassling with connection pipes just straight damping in your pool and letting it free. This device is pre-programmed to cover all areas of your pool from the walls to the floor to each and every corner that goes with the design of your pool.

Suitable for Different Pools

A robotic cleaner may be used to clean different types of pools from above ground to in-ground pools and size isn’t a concern. This unit also has the ability to remove micro granules of dirt which is often left behind by other types of cleaners.

Improve Water Circulation

Some advanced devices have the ability to push the water as they clean which improves its circulation as they go. Through this, the chemical balance is restored which keeps the water healthy and cleaner so you don’t need to continue testing the pH of your pool. Algae re-growth is also prevented when the chemical level is balanced.

Brighter and Cleaner Pool

The other benefit of a robotic pool cleaner is that it makes your pool look brighter and cleaner and you will not need to clean the surface of your pool. As the unit moves around your facility, it will climb the walls to suck debris that is floating on the water surface as well.

Robotic vs. Manual, Pressure, and Suction Pool Cleaners

Manual Pool Cleaners

Manual pool or vacuum cleaners are often the first options. They are effective and very affordable. But they have a downside: they are time-consuming. They translate to you cleaning the pool. There is no self-cleaning, so you need to take care of everything, such as guiding the cleaner around your pool.

The cleaner features a vacuum head installed to a telepole. The entire contraption then joins to a skimmer box. The product is affordable and efficient – but you will need to put in some hand grease to clean your pool.

Pressure Pool Cleaners

These cleaners consist of a filter unit and hose. The hose is joined to the filter unit either via the side intake that is connected to the pump filter of via the skimmer. The cleaners are propelled by the pressure of the pool’s water being pumped into the pool.

The system’s hose sucks in dirt and debris, with large pieces being captured by the skimmer basket or the pump basket, while the filter collects finer debris. Pressure cleaners feature a tail that stirs up tiny debris from the surface or acts as an agitator, so that it may be vacuumed.

Suction Pool Cleaners

These units connect to your swimming pool filtration and skimmer system to collect debris from the bottom of your pool. They move around and circle your pool surface and walls in a similar manner to moving primary drain. These units are effective at picking up fine dirt that collects on the surface of your pool. Due to this, you don’t need to scrub the bottom of your pool regularly.

In addition, these units are cheaper than the robotic ones; however, they have a lot of limitation. One of these limitations is the reliance on your current pool filtration and pump system. Another is that you need to control the hose that joins the cleaner to the system.

In Conclusion

In this guide and review, I have tried to answer what is the best robotic pool cleaner for your swimming pool. I hope that the information above was helpful to you and will help you make your decision about which unit you will purchase to meet your needs.