10 Best Cheap Pool Cleaner 2025 in the United States

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.

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.