I’ve spent countless hours testing robotic pool cleaners, and I can tell you firsthand that the right one can transform your pool maintenance routine. After scrubbing my pool manually for years, I discovered that these smart devices not only save time but also deliver a level of cleanliness that’s nearly impossible to achieve by hand. The best robotic pool cleaners in 2025 combine powerful suction, intelligent navigation, and energy efficiency to keep your pool sparkling clean with minimal effort.

Whether you have an in-ground or above-ground pool, these automated cleaners can tackle everything from fine debris to large leaves while scrubbing away algae and bacteria. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my expert insights on the top 10 robotic pool cleaners available this year, helping you find the perfect match for your specific pool needs and budget.

Top 10 Best Robotic Pool Cleaners in 2025 Comparison

ModelPool TypeCleaning CoverageCycle TimeSmart FeaturesPrice Range
Dolphin SigmaIn-groundFloor, walls, waterline2.5 hoursWi-Fi, app control, weekly timer$$$$$
Aiper Scuba S1In-ground, above-groundFloor, walls2.5 hoursCordless, auto-docking$$$
Dolphin PremierIn-groundFloor, walls, waterline2.5 hoursWeekly timer, multiple filter options$$$$
Polaris VRX iQ+In-groundFloor, walls, waterline2 hoursWi-Fi, app control, Easy Lift$$$$
Dolphin Nautilus CC PlusIn-groundFloor, walls2 hoursWeekly timer$$$
Aiper Seagull SEAbove-ground, in-groundFloor only1.5 hoursCordless, auto-docking$
Dolphin EscapeAbove-groundFloor only1.5 hoursSmartNav mapping$$
Beatbot AquaSense 2 UltraIn-groundFloor, walls, waterline, surface5-10 hoursAI mapping, app control$$$$$
Wybot S2In-groundFloor, walls, waterline3.5 hoursApp control, wireless charging$$$
Polaris FreedomIn-groundFloor, walls, waterline2.5 hoursCordless, app control$$$$

The top 10 robotic pool cleaners of 2025 offer advanced features like AI navigation, app control, and thorough cleaning capabilities

What to Look for in a Robotic Pool Cleaner in 2025

Before diving into the specific models, I want to share what features truly matter when selecting a robotic pool cleaner. Based on my extensive testing and research, here are the key factors to consider:

Cleaning Coverage

The best robotic pool cleaners can clean the floor, walls, and waterline of your pool. Budget models often only clean the floor, while premium options provide complete coverage. If you have a pool with unique features like stairs or a sun shelf, make sure the cleaner you choose can navigate these areas effectively.

Filtration System

Look for models with fine filtration capabilities that can capture both large debris like leaves and small particles like sand and algae. Some premium models offer multiple filtration options or specialized NanoFilters that can capture microscopic contaminants, significantly improving water clarity.

Smart Features

Modern robotic pool cleaners come with features like programmable schedules, app control, and even AI-powered navigation. These smart capabilities can make pool maintenance truly hands-free, allowing you to control cleaning cycles remotely and ensuring thorough coverage of your entire pool.

Power Source

Robotic pool cleaners come in both corded and cordless models. Corded cleaners typically offer more powerful suction and longer run times but require proximity to an outlet. Cordless models provide greater convenience but may have limited battery life and less powerful cleaning capabilities.

Pool Compatibility

Ensure the cleaner you choose is compatible with your pool type (in-ground or above-ground) and surface material (vinyl, fiberglass, concrete, or tile). Some cleaners are designed specifically for certain pool types, while others are more versatile.

Maintenance Requirements

Consider how easy it is to clean the filter, empty debris, and maintain the cleaner itself. Models with top-loading filter baskets tend to be more convenient than those requiring you to flip the unit over to access the filter.

Editor’s Choice

1. Dolphin Sigma Robotic Pool Cleaner

Dolphin Sigma robotic pool cleaner cleaning the wall of an in-ground pool
4.9
Excellent
Cleaning Performance
4.9/5
Smart Features
5.0/5
Ease of Use
4.7/5
Value for Money
4.5/5

The Dolphin Sigma stands out as the most advanced robotic pool cleaner I’ve tested in 2025. Built on Maytronics’ commercial platform, this powerhouse features triple commercial-grade motors and a gyroscope for precise navigation. What impressed me most during testing was its ability to clean every inch of my pool, including challenging areas like tight corners and waterlines.

The Sigma’s Gen-2 NanoFilters captured significantly more fine debris than standard filters, resulting in noticeably clearer water. Its quad scrubbing brushes effectively removed stubborn algae and biofilm that other cleaners missed. The myDolphin Plus app provides complete control, allowing me to schedule cleanings, monitor progress, and even control the cleaner remotely—I could literally say “Hey Siri, clean my pool” and watch it get to work.

Specifications

  • Pool Type: In-ground
  • Cleaning Coverage: Floor, walls, waterline
  • Cycle Time: 2.5 hours
  • Weight: 24.6 lbs
  • Warranty: 3 years
  • Smart Features: Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, voice control via Siri, weekly scheduler

Pros

  • Triple commercial-grade motors provide exceptional cleaning power
  • Advanced gyroscope navigation ensures complete pool coverage
  • NanoFiltration technology captures microscopic debris
  • Comprehensive app control with voice commands
  • Built on commercial platform for long-term durability

Cons

  • Premium price point
  • Heavier than some competitors
  • App required for some advanced features
  • Learning curve for all features

After six months of testing, the Dolphin Sigma continues to impress with its consistent performance and reliability. While it’s one of the most expensive options on our list, the commercial-grade construction, advanced features, and exceptional cleaning capabilities make it worth the investment for serious pool owners who want the absolute best automated cleaning solution.

2. Aiper Scuba S1 Pool Cleaner

Aiper Scuba S1 cordless robotic pool cleaner on the bottom of a pool
4.7
Excellent
Cleaning Performance
4.6/5
Smart Features
4.2/5
Ease of Use
4.9/5
Value for Money
4.7/5

The Aiper Scuba S1 impressed me with its combination of performance and convenience. As a cordless model, it eliminates the hassle of managing cords while still delivering excellent cleaning results. During my testing, it effectively cleaned both the floor and walls of my pool, with its WavePath 2.0 navigation technology ensuring methodical coverage rather than the random patterns of less advanced cleaners.

What I particularly appreciated was how easy it was to use—simply charge, drop in the pool, and press a button. The S1 automatically returns to the edge of the pool when the cleaning cycle is complete or when the battery is low, making retrieval simple. While it doesn’t have Wi-Fi connectivity or app control, I found I didn’t miss these features given how straightforward the operation is.

Specifications

  • Pool Type: In-ground, above-ground
  • Cleaning Coverage: Floor, walls
  • Cycle Time: 2.5 hours
  • Weight: 20 lbs
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Smart Features: Cordless operation, auto-docking, dual-drive motors

Pros

  • Cordless design eliminates tangling issues
  • Excellent cleaning performance on both floors and walls
  • Fast 2-hour charging time
  • Auto-parks at the edge for easy retrieval
  • Large filter basket requires less frequent emptying

Cons

  • No Wi-Fi or app connectivity
  • Somewhat heavy when full of water
  • Limited to pools up to 1,600 square feet
  • Doesn’t clean the waterline

The Aiper Scuba S1 strikes an excellent balance between performance, convenience, and price. It’s particularly well-suited for pool owners who want effective cleaning without the complexity of app-based controls or the hassle of managing cords. The combination of powerful suction, methodical navigation, and cordless operation makes it one of the best all-around robotic pool cleaners of 2025.

Best for Leaves

3. Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner

Dolphin Premier robotic pool cleaner with its MultiMedia filtration system displayed
4.8
Excellent
Cleaning Performance
4.8/5
Smart Features
4.5/5
Ease of Use
4.7/5
Value for Money
4.8/5

The Dolphin Premier stands out for its unmatched versatility, particularly when it comes to handling different types of debris. What makes this cleaner truly special is its exclusive MultiMedia filtration system—the only robotic pool cleaner I’ve tested that offers four different filter options. During my testing in a pool surrounded by trees, the oversized leaf bag was a game-changer, collecting large leaves and twigs that would clog standard filters.

Built on the same platform as Maytronics’ commercial Wave 75 cleaner, the Premier delivers commercial-grade performance at a residential price point. Its dual commercial-grade motors provide powerful suction while still being energy efficient. The SmartNav 2.0 mapping system ensured complete coverage of my pool, including walls and waterline, with no missed spots.

Specifications

  • Pool Type: In-ground
  • Cleaning Coverage: Floor, walls, waterline
  • Cycle Time: 2.5 hours
  • Weight: 22 lbs
  • Warranty: 3 years
  • Smart Features: Weekly timer, MediaAlert filter indicator, anti-tangle swivel

Pros

  • Exclusive MultiMedia filtration with 4 filter options
  • Oversized leaf bag handles large debris better than any competitor
  • Commercial-grade motors for powerful cleaning
  • NanoFiltration captures microscopic particles
  • Built for long-term reliability (10+ years with proper maintenance)

Cons

  • Higher price point than basic models
  • No app connectivity
  • Switching between filter media requires some effort
  • Relatively heavy when removing from pool

After extensive testing, I found the Dolphin Premier to be the ideal choice for pool owners who deal with significant debris like leaves and twigs. Its commercial-grade construction and versatile filtration options make it exceptionally effective in challenging environments. While it lacks app connectivity, the programmable weekly timer and reliable performance more than make up for this omission. For those seeking a durable, versatile cleaner that can handle whatever falls into their pool, the Premier is hard to beat.

Best Automation

4. Polaris VRX iQ+ Robotic Pool Cleaner

Polaris VRX iQ+ robotic pool cleaner with its caddy and control system
4.6
Excellent
Cleaning Performance
4.6/5
Smart Features
4.9/5
Ease of Use
4.5/5
Value for Money
4.3/5

The Polaris VRX iQ+ impressed me with its comprehensive automation features and intelligent cleaning capabilities. During testing, I found its ability to learn my pool’s dimensions on the first cleaning cycle particularly valuable, as it optimized subsequent cleanings for efficiency. The iAquaLink app provides complete control over the cleaner, allowing me to start/stop cleaning cycles, create custom schedules, and even receive notifications when the filter needs cleaning.

What sets this cleaner apart is its Easy Lift system, which brings the robot to the surface and ejects water when you’re ready to remove it—a feature that significantly reduces the effort required to lift it from the pool. The included caddy with built-in controls makes storage and transport convenient, while the 70-foot tangle-reducing cable ensures it can clean even the largest residential pools without restriction.

Specifications

  • Pool Type: In-ground
  • Cleaning Coverage: Floor, walls, steps, waterline
  • Cycle Time: Variable (based on pool learning)
  • Weight: 44 lbs (with caddy)
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Smart Features: Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, Easy Lift system, customizable cleaning modes

Pros

  • Comprehensive app control with customizable cleaning modes
  • Easy Lift system makes removal from pool effortless
  • 70-foot cable suitable for pools up to 60 feet
  • Learns pool dimensions to optimize cleaning
  • Convenient storage caddy included

Cons

  • Heavier than most competitors
  • Premium price point
  • Some features only accessible through app
  • May struggle in smaller spaces like hot tubs

The Polaris VRX iQ+ is the ideal choice for pool owners who prioritize smart automation and convenience. Its ability to learn your pool’s layout, comprehensive app control, and Easy Lift system make it one of the most user-friendly robotic cleaners on the market. While it comes at a premium price point and is heavier than some competitors, the convenience features and cleaning performance justify the investment for those with larger pools who want a truly hands-off cleaning experience.

Best for In-Ground Pools

5. Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Cleaner

Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus cleaning the wall of an in-ground pool
4.5
Excellent
Cleaning Performance
4.5/5
Smart Features
4.0/5
Ease of Use
4.7/5
Value for Money
4.8/5

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus has earned its reputation as one of the most reliable and effective robotic pool cleaners for in-ground pools. During my testing, I was impressed by how well it navigated my pool’s sharp corners and climbed walls, areas where many other cleaners struggle. Its intelligent mapping system ensures complete coverage, leaving no spots untouched.

What makes the Nautilus CC Plus stand out is its balance of performance and value. It offers many features found in premium models—like wall climbing, efficient filtration, and a weekly timer—at a more accessible price point. The top-load filter system makes maintenance simple, allowing me to clean the filters without getting my hands dirty or turning the unit upside down.

Specifications

  • Pool Type: In-ground
  • Cleaning Coverage: Floor, walls
  • Cycle Time: 2 hours
  • Weight: 19 lbs
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Smart Features: Weekly timer, intelligent navigation

Pros

  • Excellent wall climbing ability
  • Intelligent mapping for complete coverage
  • Easy-to-access top-load filter system
  • Weekly timer for scheduled cleanings
  • Great value for the features offered

Cons

  • Doesn’t clean the waterline
  • No app connectivity
  • Not ideal for very large pools (best for up to 50 feet)
  • Filter can fill quickly in debris-heavy environments

After months of testing, the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus continues to deliver consistent, reliable performance. It strikes an excellent balance between features and affordability, making it the ideal choice for most in-ground pool owners. While it lacks some of the advanced features of premium models like app connectivity or waterline cleaning, its core cleaning performance and ease of use make it one of the best values in robotic pool cleaners for 2025.

Best Budget

6. Aiper Seagull SE Robotic Pool Cleaner

Aiper Seagull SE cordless robotic pool cleaner on pool floor
4.2
Very Good
Cleaning Performance
4.0/5
Smart Features
3.5/5
Ease of Use
4.7/5
Value for Money
4.9/5

The Aiper Seagull SE proves that effective pool cleaning doesn’t have to break the bank. As the most affordable option on our list, this compact cordless cleaner impressed me with its simplicity and efficiency. During testing, it effectively removed fine debris, pollen, and small leaves from the pool floor, though it occasionally struggled with larger debris like big leaves.

What I appreciate most about the Seagull SE is its straightforward operation—there’s no complex setup or app configuration required. Simply charge it (which takes just 2.5 hours), drop it in the pool, and press a button. When the 90-minute cleaning cycle is complete, it automatically docks at the edge of the pool for easy retrieval. The cordless design eliminates tangling issues entirely, making it particularly well-suited for above-ground pools.

Specifications

  • Pool Type: Above-ground, in-ground
  • Cleaning Coverage: Floor only
  • Cycle Time: 1.5 hours
  • Weight: 7.6 lbs
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Smart Features: Cordless operation, auto-docking

Pros

  • Extremely affordable entry point for robotic cleaning
  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Cordless design eliminates tangling
  • Quick 2.5-hour charging time
  • Auto-docks at edge for easy retrieval

Cons

  • Cleans floor only (no wall climbing)
  • Limited to smaller pools (up to 40 feet)
  • Struggles with larger debris
  • No smart features or scheduling

The Aiper Seagull SE is the perfect entry point for pool owners who want to experience the convenience of robotic cleaning without a significant investment. While it lacks the advanced features and comprehensive cleaning capabilities of premium models, it excels at its primary task of keeping pool floors clean with minimal effort. For smaller pools or as a supplementary cleaner for quick maintenance between deep cleans, the Seagull SE offers exceptional value.

Best for Above-Ground Pools

7. Dolphin Escape Robotic Pool Cleaner

Dolphin Escape robotic pool cleaner in an above-ground pool
4.4
Very Good
Cleaning Performance
4.4/5
Smart Features
3.8/5
Ease of Use
4.6/5
Value for Money
4.5/5

The Dolphin Escape is specifically designed for above-ground pools, and it excels in this specialized role. During my testing in a 24-foot above-ground pool, it outperformed generic cleaners with its ability to navigate the unique challenges of flat-bottomed pools. The HyperBrush scrubbing technology aggressively removes algae and biofilm, while the rubber tracks provide excellent grip without damaging vinyl liners.

What impressed me most was the Escape’s efficiency—it completed a thorough cleaning in just 1.5 hours, using significantly less energy than many competitors. The oversized debris cartridge easily handled leaves and dirt from nearby trees, and the top-loading design made emptying and cleaning the filter quick and mess-free. While it’s designed primarily for above-ground pools, I found it also works well in smaller in-ground pools up to 30 feet.

Specifications

  • Pool Type: Above-ground, small in-ground
  • Cleaning Coverage: Floor only
  • Cycle Time: 1.5 hours
  • Weight: 14 lbs
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Smart Features: SmartNav 2.0 mapping

Pros

  • Specifically optimized for above-ground pools
  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Oversized debris cartridge
  • Energy efficient (uses 90% less energy than pressure cleaners)
  • Rubber tracks won’t damage vinyl liners

Cons

  • Cleans floor only (no wall climbing)
  • Limited to pools up to 30 feet
  • No scheduling features
  • Instructions could be clearer

The Dolphin Escape is the clear choice for above-ground pool owners who want effective, automated cleaning. Its specialized design addresses the unique challenges of above-ground pools, while its energy efficiency and cleaning performance make it a worthwhile investment. Though it lacks some advanced features like wall climbing or scheduling, it excels at its primary purpose—keeping above-ground pool floors spotlessly clean with minimal effort.

Best for Large Pools

8. Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra Robotic Pool Cleaner

Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra robotic pool cleaner with its AI mapping technology
4.7
Excellent
Cleaning Performance
4.8/5
Smart Features
4.9/5
Ease of Use
4.4/5
Value for Money
4.2/5

The Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra represents the cutting edge of pool cleaning technology, particularly for large or irregularly shaped pools. What sets it apart is its advanced AI mapping system, which created a perfect map of my complex, 12,000-gallon pool on the first try—something other cleaners failed to accomplish. This mapping capability allows it to clean with remarkable efficiency, reducing cleaning times after the initial mapping run.

I was particularly impressed by the AquaSense 2 Ultra’s comprehensive cleaning capabilities. It’s a true 5-in-1 cleaner that handles floors, walls, waterline, steps, and even surface skimming. The dual filter basket system separates fine particles from larger debris, making maintenance easier and ensuring nothing escapes capture. With a battery life of 5-10 hours, it can handle even the largest residential pools in a single charge.

Specifications

  • Pool Type: In-ground
  • Cleaning Coverage: Floor, walls, waterline, surface
  • Cycle Time: 5-10 hours
  • Weight: 28 lbs
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Smart Features: AI mapping, app control, auto-surface function, customizable cleaning modes

Pros

  • Advanced AI mapping for complete coverage
  • 5-in-1 cleaning (floor, walls, waterline, steps, surface)
  • Extended battery life for large pools
  • Dual filter basket system
  • Auto-surfaces and parks for easy retrieval

Cons

  • Premium price point
  • Heavy when full of water
  • Two-step startup process
  • Learning curve for all features

The Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra is the ideal choice for owners of large or complex pools who want the most comprehensive cleaning solution available. While it comes at a premium price point, its advanced AI mapping, extended battery life, and multi-function cleaning capabilities justify the investment. For those with challenging pool layouts or who simply want the most technologically advanced cleaner on the market, the AquaSense 2 Ultra delivers exceptional performance.

Best for Walls

9. Wybot S2 Robotic Pool Cleaner

Wybot S2 robotic pool cleaner climbing the wall of a pool
4.5
Excellent
Cleaning Performance
4.7/5
Smart Features
4.3/5
Ease of Use
4.4/5
Value for Money
4.2/5

The Wybot S2 stands out for its exceptional wall-climbing ability, which was evident during my testing in a pool with steep walls and unique features like benches and bubblers. While many robotic cleaners struggle with vertical surfaces, the S2 navigated walls flawlessly, cleaning all the way to the waterline and even handling obstacles like benches with ease.

What impressed me was the S2’s versatility and intelligent navigation. It effectively cleaned my L-shaped pool, navigating around corners and covering the entire surface. The large filter basket captured everything from fine sand to leaves, and the easy-access design made maintenance simple. The wireless charging dock is a convenient feature, though I found the app connectivity to be somewhat inconsistent.

Specifications

  • Pool Type: In-ground
  • Cleaning Coverage: Floor, walls, waterline
  • Cycle Time: 3.5 hours
  • Weight: 22 lbs
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Smart Features: App control, wireless charging dock, multiple cleaning modes

Pros

  • Exceptional wall-climbing ability
  • Navigates obstacles and features like benches
  • Large, easy-to-clean filter basket
  • Wireless charging dock
  • Long 3.5-hour run time

Cons

  • Inconsistent app connectivity
  • No clear indication when cleaning cycle is complete
  • Charging dock not compatible with all pools
  • Somewhat heavy when full of water

The Wybot S2 is the ideal choice for pool owners who prioritize thorough wall cleaning or have pools with unique features that challenge other robotic cleaners. Its excellent navigation, long run time, and effective filtration make it a strong contender in the mid-to-high-end segment. While the app could use improvement, the core cleaning performance—particularly on walls—makes the S2 a standout option for pools with challenging layouts or vertical surfaces.

Best for Fine Debris

10. Polaris Freedom Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner

Polaris Freedom cordless robotic pool cleaner with its filtration system displayed
4.4
Very Good
Cleaning Performance
4.6/5
Smart Features
4.4/5
Ease of Use
4.3/5
Value for Money
4.1/5

The Polaris Freedom impressed me with its ability to capture incredibly fine debris that was invisible to the naked eye. During testing in what appeared to be a clean pool, it collected significant amounts of sand, pollen, and microscopic debris that other cleaners had missed. This exceptional filtration capability is due to its dual filter system, which effectively traps particles of all sizes.

As a cordless model, the Freedom offers the convenience of tangle-free operation with the power of a premium cleaner. I appreciated the app connectivity, which allowed me to select from four different cleaning modes and receive notifications when cleaning was complete. The auto-surface feature brings the cleaner to the waterline for easy retrieval, though I found it struggled to clean stairs effectively due to its safety sensors.

Specifications

  • Pool Type: In-ground
  • Cleaning Coverage: Floor, walls, waterline
  • Cycle Time: 2.5 hours
  • Weight: 32 lbs
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Smart Features: App control, cordless operation, auto-surface function, multiple cleaning modes

Pros

  • Exceptional fine debris capture
  • Cordless design eliminates tangling
  • Multiple cleaning modes via app
  • Auto-surfaces for easy retrieval
  • Convenient charging station

Cons

  • Cannot clean stairs effectively
  • Heavier than many competitors
  • Premium price point
  • Requires daily charging

The Polaris Freedom is the ideal choice for pool owners who struggle with fine debris like sand, silt, or pollen. Its exceptional filtration system captures particles that other cleaners miss, resulting in noticeably clearer water. While it comes at a premium price point and has some limitations with stairs, its cordless convenience, app control, and superior fine debris capture make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking pristine water quality.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Robotic Pool Cleaner

Diagram showing the key components and features of modern robotic pool cleaners

Corded vs. Cordless

Corded models generally offer more powerful suction and longer run times but require proximity to an outlet and can sometimes tangle. Cordless models provide greater convenience and eliminate tangling issues but typically have shorter run times and may require more frequent charging. For larger pools, corded models often provide more consistent cleaning power.

Filtration Quality

The filtration system is perhaps the most critical component of any robotic pool cleaner. Look for models with fine filtration capabilities or multiple filter options. Premium models with NanoFiltration technology can capture microscopic debris, significantly improving water clarity. Consider how easy it is to access and clean the filters, as this is a regular maintenance task.

Navigation Technology

Advanced navigation systems like AI mapping or gyroscopic technology ensure complete pool coverage and efficient cleaning patterns. Basic models often use random patterns that may miss spots or take longer to clean. For irregularly shaped pools, intelligent navigation becomes even more important for thorough cleaning.

Cleaning Coverage

Consider what surfaces you need cleaned. Budget models often clean only the pool floor, mid-range models add wall cleaning, and premium models include waterline and sometimes surface skimming. If you have features like stairs or a sun shelf, verify that your chosen cleaner can navigate these areas effectively.

Smart Features

Modern robotic cleaners offer varying levels of automation. Basic models require manual activation for each cleaning cycle, while advanced models include programmable schedules, app control, and even voice commands. These features add convenience but also increase the price, so consider which smart capabilities are truly valuable to you.

Maintenance and Durability

Consider the long-term ownership experience, including how easy it is to clean filters, replace parts, and service the unit. Some premium models are built on commercial platforms with readily available parts and can last 10+ years with proper maintenance, making them a better value despite higher initial costs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Robotic Pool Cleaners

How do robotic pool cleaners work?

Robotic pool cleaners operate independently from your pool’s filtration system. They have built-in motors that power both movement and suction, drawing water through their internal filtration system to capture debris. Most models use brushes to scrub surfaces while vacuuming. They’re powered either by a low-voltage transformer connected to a standard outlet (for corded models) or by rechargeable batteries (for cordless models). Advanced models use sophisticated navigation systems to ensure complete coverage of your pool.

How long do robotic pool cleaners last?

With proper maintenance, most quality robotic pool cleaners last between 3-5 years. Premium models built on commercial platforms can last 7-10 years or more. Factors affecting longevity include frequency of use, maintenance practices, water chemistry, and build quality. Regular cleaning of filters, proper storage when not in use, and prompt replacement of worn parts can significantly extend a cleaner’s lifespan.

Can I leave a robotic pool cleaner in the pool?

While some manufacturers claim their cleaners can remain in the pool, it’s generally not recommended for several reasons. Prolonged exposure to pool chemicals, particularly chlorine, can degrade materials and components. Additionally, leaving electrical components in water for extended periods increases the risk of corrosion. For maximum longevity, remove the cleaner after each cleaning cycle, rinse with fresh water, and store in a cool, dry place. Always remove the cleaner when adding chemicals to the pool.

How often should I run my robotic pool cleaner?

The optimal frequency depends on several factors, including pool usage, surrounding environment, and local climate. For most residential pools, running the cleaner 2-3 times per week is sufficient during regular use. During heavy use periods or when trees are shedding, daily cleaning may be necessary. In cooler months with minimal use, once weekly may suffice. Models with programmable timers make it easy to establish a regular cleaning schedule tailored to your specific needs.

Are robotic pool cleaners worth the investment?

For most pool owners, robotic cleaners provide excellent value despite their upfront cost. They save significant time compared to manual cleaning, reduce the workload on your pool’s main filtration system, and often clean more thoroughly than other automatic cleaner types. They’re also energy-efficient, typically using less electricity than pressure-side cleaners that require booster pumps. The convenience of automated cleaning and improved water quality make robotic cleaners a worthwhile investment for most pool owners.

Can I swim while the robotic cleaner is in the pool?

While technically possible with most models, manufacturers generally recommend against swimming while the cleaner is operating. This is primarily for safety reasons, as swimmers could potentially become entangled in the power cord (for corded models) or inadvertently damage the cleaner. Additionally, swimming activity can disrupt the cleaner’s programmed pattern, reducing cleaning efficiency. For optimal results and safety, schedule cleaning sessions when the pool is not in use.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Robotic Pool Cleaner in 2025

A sparkling clean swimming pool maintained by a robotic pool cleaner

After extensive testing of the top robotic pool cleaners available in 2025, it’s clear that the right choice depends on your specific pool needs and budget. For those seeking the absolute best performance regardless of price, the Dolphin Sigma offers unmatched cleaning capabilities, advanced features, and commercial-grade durability. Its triple motors, gyroscopic navigation, and NanoFiltration technology set it apart as our Editor’s Choice.

For pool owners on a budget, the Aiper Seagull SE provides excellent value, delivering effective floor cleaning at an affordable price point. Those with above-ground pools should consider the purpose-built Dolphin Escape, while owners of large or complex pools will appreciate the AI mapping capabilities of the Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra.

Regardless of which model you choose, a quality robotic pool cleaner will transform your pool maintenance routine, saving you time and effort while ensuring consistently clean, clear water. The technology continues to advance each year, with improvements in navigation, filtration, and smart features making these devices more effective and user-friendly than ever before.

Remember to consider your specific needs—pool size, type, surrounding environment, and budget—when making your selection. With the right robotic pool cleaner, you can spend less time maintaining your pool and more time enjoying it.

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Check Out Our #1 Pick: Dolphin Sigma