10 Best Above Ground Pool Vacuums 2025 in the United States

The Dolphin (2025 Model) Nautilus Pool Up is a robotic pool vacuum cleaner designed for both above-ground and in-ground pools up to 26 feet in length. Key strengths include its ease of use with a plug-and-play system, requiring no assembly, and its smart automation that ensures efficient cleaning of both floors and walls. The active scrubbing brush is particularly effective at removing debris, while still being gentle on pool surfaces.

Additionally, the vacuum’s reputation for durability and performance, backed by over 40 years of Dolphin’s experience in pool maintenance, is a significant plus. The vacuum is lightweight at 28.5 pounds, making it easier to handle, and it operates on an efficient lithium-ion battery system. Despite its efficiency and performance, some potential drawbacks include the relatively shorter hose length of 40 feet, which might limit its coverage in larger pools.

Also, the unit's weight might be a concern for some users and, although it is highly efficient, it may not fit everyone's budget. This Dolphin model is ideal for small to medium-sized pools and users looking for an easy-to-use, reliable, and efficient pool cleaning solution.

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner is designed to make pool maintenance easier for above-ground and in-ground pools up to 33 feet in length. One of its standout features is its wall-scrubbing capability, which ensures comprehensive cleaning of the pool surfaces, though it does not clean the waterline. The active scrubbing brush enhances its cleaning efficiency, tackling debris while being gentle on pool surfaces. Users will find the top-load filter basket especially convenient for removing collected debris, contributing to clear pool water with minimal effort.

The plug-and-play system allows for straightforward operation: simply plug it in, drop it into the pool, and let it clean in about two hours. This model is built with durability in mind, backed by Dolphin's 40-year legacy of reliable pool cleaning solutions. However, there are some drawbacks. It does not clean the waterline, which can be a minor inconvenience. While it climbs walls effectively, the absence of waterline cleaning means users may need to manually address that area.

The vacuum is corded, which might limit its range of movement slightly, and regular maintenance of the filter and plastic components is recommended to ensure longevity. The vacuum is relatively lightweight at 14 pounds, making it easy to handle and maneuver. Its ease of use, sturdy construction, and efficient cleaning performance make it a suitable choice for pool owners seeking hassle-free maintenance, though it may not cover every cleaning need entirely.

The POOL BLASTER CX-300 is a cordless robotic pool vacuum designed mainly for smaller in-ground and above-ground pools. One of its main strengths is the cordless design, which makes cleaning easier since you don’t have to worry about tangled cords or hoses. It runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, offering about 2.5 hours of cleaning time, enough to cover small to medium pools efficiently. The vacuum uses smart navigation technology to clean the entire pool, including floors and walls, which is a nice feature for thorough cleaning.

It’s lightweight at just over 17 pounds, making it easy to handle and store. The absence of a hose and filter bags means less mess and simpler maintenance, though it relies on internal filtration that may require regular cleaning. While its suction is good for debris typical in smaller pools, it might not be powerful enough for larger pools or heavy dirt buildup. Also, it’s best suited for pools with simple shapes, as complex layouts might challenge the navigation system.

Durability seems solid, backed by a one-year warranty and US-based customer support, which is helpful if you run into issues. If you want an easy-to-use, cordless cleaner that covers floors and walls and is great for routine maintenance of smaller pools, the CX-300 is a strong candidate. For very large or heavily soiled pools, a more powerful option might be necessary.