10 Best Cheap Pool Cleaner 2026 in the United States

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.

The Aiper Scuba S1 is a cordless robotic pool cleaner designed for hassle-free cleaning of various pool shapes and sizes, making it suitable for medium to large pools thanks to its long 180-minute battery life. It features double filtration, using both a fine 3-micron and a standard 180-micron filter, which captures a wide range of debris from large leaves to tiny dirt particles, resulting in noticeably clearer water. The smart WavePath 2.0 navigation system enables efficient cleaning of the pool floor, walls, and waterline without missing spots, which is especially beneficial for pools with complex shapes.

Controlling the cleaner through a smartphone app adds convenience and allows users to receive updates that improve the device over time. The filters are replaceable and easy to handle, although the cleaner weighs about 24.5 pounds, which may be a bit heavy for some users when removing it from the pool. Its battery-powered operation eliminates tangled cords and is designed to be energy-efficient for longer cleaning sessions.

Priced as a budget-friendly option, the Aiper Scuba S1 offers features commonly found in more expensive models. Some users might find the app setup challenging if they are not comfortable with technology, but the 2-year warranty and positive customer ratings provide confidence in its durability and performance.