10 Best Cheap Pool Cleaner 2025 in the United States

The Polaris Vac-Sweep 280 is a pressure-side pool cleaner designed for in-ground pools of various shapes and surfaces, including vinyl, fiberglass, gunite, pebble, and tile. It operates with the help of a separate booster pump, which powers dual venturi jets to create strong suction. This allows it to clean the pool efficiently in about 3 hours, which is relatively fast for its category. Its large 2.25-inch inlet is great at picking up bigger debris like leaves, acorns, and pebbles—types of debris that some other cleaners might miss. The included single-chamber debris bag makes it easy to collect and remove this debris, simplifying maintenance.

Since it relies on a booster pump, this can mean an extra energy cost compared to simpler suction-side cleaners, so keep that in mind if energy efficiency is a top priority. The 31-foot hose provides decent reach for most pool sizes but might require an adjustment or professional installation, which adds to the initial setup effort. This cleaner is lightweight at just over 6 pounds and doesn’t require assembly, making it user-friendly. However, needing a separate booster pump might add complexity and cost for some buyers.

If you have an average-sized in-ground pool and want a cleaner that handles large debris well without breaking the bank, the Polaris Vac-Sweep 280 is a solid choice with reliable performance. Energy use and installation needs could be considerations depending on your setup.

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wi-Fi Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner is a solid choice for in-ground pools up to 50 feet in length. It offers the convenience of scheduling cleanings remotely through its always-connected Wi-Fi feature, making it easy to maintain your pool even when you're not home. The wall-climbing scrubber brush ensures thorough cleaning on various pool surfaces and shapes, which is a significant advantage for those with uniquely shaped pools or different surface types.

The top-load filter basket simplifies debris removal and filter maintenance, which is ideal for users looking for minimal upkeep. Additionally, the plug-and-play system allows for straightforward operation, cleaning your pool in just 2 hours, which is relatively efficient in terms of cleaning cycle time. However, the product is relatively heavy at 35.4 pounds, which could make it challenging to handle for some users.

While it is energy efficient, it requires an AC power source, which might limit its placement flexibility. The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus offers a good balance of advanced features and ease of use for those willing to invest in a reliable pool cleaner, though it may not be the cheapest option available.

The Dolphin Nautilus CC is a battery-powered robotic pool cleaner designed for in-ground pools up to 33 feet long, making it suitable for medium-sized pools. It stands out with its ability to climb walls and scrub surfaces actively, which helps remove dirt and debris thoroughly without manual effort. The top-load filter basket is easy to clean, which simplifies maintenance and keeps your pool water clear. Its compact design and included caddy make moving and storing the unit convenient. The energy-efficient lithium-ion battery means it doesn’t require constant charging, saving on electricity costs.

As a budget-friendly option, its cleaning cycle might take longer compared to higher-end models, and it may not handle very large debris or extremely complex pool shapes as effectively. Weighing 40 pounds, it's somewhat heavy but still portable with the caddy. The Dolphin Nautilus CC is a solid choice if you want reliable, automated cleaning in a modestly sized pool without spending too much, though those with very large or heavily dirty pools might want to consider more powerful options.