9 Best Robot Pool Cleaners

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is a robust choice for maintaining in-ground pools up to 50 feet in length. Its wall-scrubbing power and active scrubbing brush efficiently handle various pool surfaces, promising less manual effort and leaving your pool pristine. This cleaner uses smart navigation, allowing it to maneuver around obstacles and cover the pool comprehensively within a short cleaning cycle of about 2 hours.

One of its standout features is the top-load filter basket, which simplifies maintenance by allowing easy debris removal, keeping your pool's water clear. The plug-and-play system makes setup straightforward: just plug it in, drop it in the pool, and let it do its job, which is particularly appealing for users who prefer hassle-free operation.

Despite its benefits, the weight of 9.45 kilograms may make it slightly cumbersome when handling, though it does contribute to its stable performance while cleaning. Its build quality, using materials like Polypropylene or ABS, suggests durability, aligning with its legacy of over 40 years in the pool cleaning industry. However, some users might find the price point higher than basic models, though this is justified by its advanced features and energy efficiency.

In terms of energy efficiency, the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is designed to be cost-effective, which is a plus for long-term use. With a 2-year warranty, it offers peace of mind regarding its durability and performance. This robotic cleaner suits pool owners looking for a reliable and efficient cleaning solution that requires minimal manual intervention and provides consistent results. While it may not be the lightest, its features and performance justify the investment for users with average to large-sized pools.

The Hayward RC9990CUB TigerShark Robotic Pool Vacuum is designed for in-ground residential pools up to 20 x 40 feet and offers several appealing features that make pool maintenance easier. One of its standout features is the Quick Clean cycle, allowing the robot to clean the pool in just 90 minutes, which is a time-saver. For a thorough clean, it also provides a 3-hour cycle to tackle the floors, walls, coves, and waterline. This makes it a versatile option for various cleaning needs.

The TigerShark operates independently of the pool's filtration system, which helps reduce filter backwashes, saving time and potentially lowering maintenance costs. It uses a cartridge filter system that simplifies the cleaning process—just remove, rinse and reinstall, without additional hoses or pumps needed. This user-friendly design adds to its convenience.

Energy efficiency is a plus with this model, thanks to its 24-volt motor, which is designed to consume less energy. However, weighing in at 9.75 kg, it may not be the easiest to move around for all users, although it is quite compact for storage. Durability is supported by its steel construction, indicating a robust build quality that should withstand regular use. With a remote control method, it offers a modern touch, but this might require a bit of a learning curve for those unfamiliar with such technology.

While some users may find that the 90-minute quick cycle may not always be sufficient for very dirty pools, the requirement for assembly might be a slight inconvenience. This robotic pool cleaner is an excellent choice for homeowners looking for an efficient, easy-to-use solution, though it might not be the best fit for those seeking lightweight portability or completely hands-free operation.

The Zodiac CNX 50 iQ pool cleaner is a smart choice for pool owners with pools up to about 12 by 6 meters who want thorough cleaning with minimal hassle. It cleans not only the pool floor but also walls and the water line, which many simpler models skip. Thanks to its cyclonic suction and double filtration system, it handles dirt effectively and can hold up to 4 liters of debris. The cleaning cycles offer flexibility, with a quicker 1.5-hour floor-only mode and a more thorough 2.5-hour full cleaning. Navigation is precise thanks to built-in sensors like a gyroscope, ensuring good coverage without getting stuck. Its 18-meter anti-knot cable helps avoid tangles, which can be a major nuisance in other models.

Controlling the cleaner is convenient through the iAqualink app, letting you adjust settings and even lift the robot out of the pool with its built-in Lift System, which is great to reduce physical effort. The cleaner weighs 18 kg, which is on the heavier side but manageable with the provided trolley for portability. The build quality uses sturdy plastic and comes from a reputable brand with long experience in pool care.

The Zodiac CNX 50 iQ runs on electric power requiring a connection to a control unit rather than being fully wireless, which might limit placement options. Also, some users might find the price higher than basic cleaners, reflecting its advanced features. For those seeking a reliable, feature-rich robotic pool cleaner that covers all pool surfaces and offers smart controls, the Zodiac CNX 50 iQ is a solid pick.