10 Best Affordable Pool Vacuum 2025 in the United States

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wi-Fi is a robotic pool vacuum designed for in-ground pools up to 50 feet, making it a solid choice for medium to larger-sized pools. Its standout feature is Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to schedule cleanings remotely—great if you want convenience and automation. The vacuum is equipped with a wall-climbing scrubber brush, so it cleans not just the pool floor but also walls and waterline areas, which helps keep your entire pool thoroughly clean regardless of shape or surface.

The top-load filter basket is easy to access and clean, simplifying debris removal and reducing maintenance effort. It runs on AC power and completes cleaning cycles in about 2 hours, which is reasonably efficient for this type of device. The vacuum is self-propelled, so it moves independently, and its energy use is considered efficient, helping to keep running costs down.

At roughly 34 pounds, it’s a bit heavy to handle when removing from the pool, and since it requires a power outlet, placement near the pool is needed. It covers many pool surfaces well but is limited to in-ground pools up to 50 feet, so it might not suit very large or above-ground pools. The device provides strong cleaning performance with user-friendly features at a price point that fits those looking for advanced robotic cleaning without stepping into the highest-end models.

The AIPER Cordless Automatic Cleaner, or Scuba SE, is designed primarily for above-ground flat pools up to about 860 square feet, making it a solid choice if your pool fits this size and shape. Its cordless robotic design means you don’t have to worry about tangled wires, offering good freedom of movement around your pool. With a 90-minute battery life, it can complete a full cleaning cycle on a single charge, which is convenient for regular maintenance without frequent interruptions. The self-parking feature is helpful because once it finishes cleaning, it returns to its starting point automatically, so you don’t have to fish it out of the pool. Thanks to an optimized hydrodynamic design, it cleans efficiently while using less power, contributing to energy savings. It also drains water quickly, making it easy to carry and store after use.

The vacuum is best suited for flat, above-ground pools and may not perform as well in larger or irregular-shaped pools. Maintenance seems straightforward since it’s lightweight and doesn’t require assembly, but it operates within a certain temperature range (50°F to 95°F), which could limit use in colder climates or winter months. The vacuum weighs about 8.8 pounds, which is manageable for most users. Backed by a 1-year warranty and decent customer support, it offers peace of mind for an affordable price point.

This pool vacuum is a convenient, energy-efficient option for owners of small to medium above-ground pools who want an easy-to-use, cordless cleaning tool without complex setup or maintenance.

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner is a versatile choice for those with above or in-ground pools up to 33 feet in length. One of its primary strengths is its wall-scrubbing capability, which ensures thorough cleaning of the pool's walls, though it does not clean the waterline. Its active scrubbing brush is effective at removing debris without damaging pool surfaces, which makes it easy to maintain a clean pool without much manual effort.

The top-load filter basket is user-friendly and simplifies debris removal, enhancing the pool cleaning experience. The plug-and-play efficiency of this vacuum means you can easily set it up by just plugging it in and dropping it into the pool, where it will clean within two hours. This simplicity makes it very user-friendly, especially for those who prefer a no-fuss, straightforward operation. With over 40 years of performance history, the Dolphin brand promises durability and cost savings over time.

At 14 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight, adding to its ease of use. However, it does have some limitations. For instance, this model does not clean the waterline, so you may need to do this manually or with another tool. Its corded electric power source means you need a nearby outlet, and it may not be as energy-efficient as some other models, depending on your usage patterns. Regular maintenance is required to keep the machine in good working order, such as cleaning the filter and checking for wear and tear. For those looking for an affordable, easy-to-use pool vacuum that can handle regular debris, the Dolphin Nautilus CC is a solid option, though it might not be suited for those who need waterline cleaning as well.