The 7 Best Robotic Pool Cleaners of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Final Verdict

For a reliable, fast-acting robotic pool cleaner, we recommend the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Cleaner, due to its ease of use, lightweight design, and overall effectiveness. For a less expensive model, check out the Aiper Seagull SE Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner, a quiet and cordless cleaner that’ll more than do the job.

Our Testing Process

We tested 18 different robotic pool cleaners over several months, using the pools in real-world conditions (re: debris, pollen, leaves, and more). First, we prepared the pools for use, performing such tasks as performing a backwash, cleaning filters and pump baskets, and making sure chemical balances were correct. 

Once the pool was ready for use, we set up the robotic pool cleaner. We started by timing how long setting up the pool cleaner took, from unboxing it until all the pieces were assembled. For battery-powered robotic cleaners, we immediately charged them and timed how long that process took. For Wi-Fi-enabled pool cleaners, we downloaded the applicable app and registered the model.

We used each pool cleaner at least once a week, depending on pool usage, for 2-6 months. Before each cleaning, we took note of what type and how much debris was present in the pool. During the first cleaning, we observed the entire process, taking note of the cleaning path and areas that the robot was able (and unable) to get to. For every other cleaning, we both observed the robot and also left it unsupervised during stretches of the cleaning process.

After each cleaning, we recorded how long the process took and how clean the pool was afterward. We also performed any maintenance required, such as emptying the collection bag and cleaning the filter. Throughout the testing period, we considered the robotic pool cleaner’s ease of use, design, noise level, effectiveness at cleaning, and ease of maintenance. We also evaluated the cord length and whether it was prone to tangling, as well as whether the robot got stuck at any point.

How to Shop for Robotic Pool Cleaners Like a Pro

Pool Type

Most robotic pool cleaners can work well in both in-ground and above-ground pools, but some models are specifically designed for use in only one of those types. Smaller cleaners in particular are better for above-ground pools since they require less space, but be sure to carefully look over the cleaner you’re considering before buying it to see if it’ll work in your particular pool.

Cleaning Coverage

Many robotic pool cleaners can cover pools up to 50 feet, with some going as high as 60 or 75 feet. The amount of coverage a robot can manage has to do primarily with “the capacity of the debris container,” explains Whitman. The bigger the container, the more debris a cleaner will be able to collect and the greater area it’ll be able to cover. 

Additionally, you’ll want to consider the areas of the pool you want to be cleaned. Less expensive robotic pool cleaners, like the Aiper Seagull SE, only clean the pool’s floor and not the walls or waterline. If you want a robotic pool cleaner that cleans all three areas, you should expect to pay quite a bit more—in fact, only one cleaner on this list cleans floors, walls, and waterline and costs under $1,000: the Aiper Seagull Pro.

Cord Length

While some robotic pool cleaners are battery-powered and cordless, most models have long cables that need to be attached to a power source. Expect the cord to be anywhere from 30 to 75 feet, although you can always connect them to an extension cord if needed for greater length. 

Features

Robotic pool cleaners can sport many different features, all of which are worth considering. Some common features include:

• Advanced navigation technology such as sensors or mapping, can “help the cleaner navigate the pool more efficiently and ensure complete coverage,” says Whitman.
• Programmable cleaning cycles and modes that you can customize based on your pool’s needs and size. “The ability to set and customize cleaning cycles can help ensure efficient and thorough cleaning,” Whitman says. You’ll typically find this feature in models that are Wi-Fi-enabled and can be controlled by an app.
• High-level suction power and scrubbing ability, which allows the cleaner to “effectively remove dirt, debris, and algae from the pool surface and walls,” says Whitman.
• Energy-efficient motors that can “save on electricity costs and reduce environmental impact,” says Whitman.
• Remote controls or apps that let you conveniently control the robot from afar. Several of the models we recommend can be connected to an app, like the Dolphin Explorer E50, our Best Smart pick.

More Robotic Pool Cleaners to Consider

Dolphin Nautilus CC Robotic Pool Cleaner: This lightweight device cleans thoroughly and comes at a relatively low price point. Still, the cable isn’t particularly long and it only covers pools that are 33 feet in length—and there is no way to spot-clean trouble areas of the pool.

Hydrus Roker Plus Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner: A popular (and very budget-friendly) cordless option, this cleaner is lightweight and straightforward, requiring little attention or maintenance. However, it only cleans floors, and in our testing, it kept getting stuck by the ladder and confused by the slope.

Questions You Might Ask

Is a robotic pool cleaner worth it?

A robotic pool cleaner is worth the cost, according to Whitman. “One of the biggest advantages of a robotic pool cleaner is that it can save you a lot of time and effort compared to manually cleaning your pool,” he notes. “Instead of spending hours brushing and vacuuming the pool yourself, you can simply drop the cleaner into the water and let it do the work for you.”

Additionally, robotic pool cleaners tend to be energy-efficient (making them more cost-effective in the long term) and convenient, since you can often control them remotely and schedule their cleaning times. And of course, there’s their effectiveness: “Robotic pool cleaners are designed to thoroughly clean the bottom and walls of your pool, as well as remove debris and contaminants that might be missed by other types of cleaners,” says Whitman. “Overall,” he adds, “if you value your time and want to enjoy a clean and clear pool without spending a lot of effort, a robotic pool cleaner can be worth the investment.”

Can robotic pool cleaners clean larger debris?

It depends on the cleaner, says Whitman. “Most robotic pool cleaners are designed to pick up smaller debris like dirt, leaves, and insects. However, some models come with larger intake ports or debris bags that can handle bigger debris like twigs, pebbles, and small rocks,” he explains.

If you do have a lot of large debris in your pool, “look for a robotic pool cleaner that has a large debris bag or basket, and powerful suction or scrubbing capabilities,” Whitman says. “You may also want to consider a model with a clog-resistant design or a manual cleaning mode, which can help you remove larger debris that might get stuck in the cleaner's intake or brushes.”

If you have a lot of debris in your pool, we recommend the Dolphin Premier, which has a large debris bag, impressive suction, and dual scrubbing brushes for extra effectiveness. 

How much should you expect to pay for a robotic pool cleaner?

“The cost of a robotic pool cleaner can vary depending on the model, brand, and features,” says Whitman, but “generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $1,500 or more for a robotic pool cleaner.”

He adds that lower-priced models “typically have fewer features and may not be suitable for larger or more complex pools. They may also have shorter warranty periods or be less durable than higher-end models.”

Pricier models, meanwhile, may boast numerous special features and “be better suited for larger or more challenging pool configurations, and typically come with longer warranty periods,” he says.

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Rachel Simon, a writer for Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, The New York Times, and many other publications. To write this article, we tested 18 robotic pool cleaners over several months and evaluated them on ease of use, effectiveness, value, design, and more. For expert insight, we spoke to Phil Whitman of Proactive Pool Solutions in Raleigh, North Carolina.

What Is Real Simple Selects?

Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company.

Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects, from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.