10 Best Handheld Pool Cleaner 2025 in the United States

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wi-Fi excels as a pool cleaner designed for in-ground pools up to 50 feet long. Its AC power source means you don’t have to worry about battery life, and it delivers consistent suction power throughout its operation. The wall-climbing feature ensures thorough cleaning of both the pool floor and walls, regardless of the pool's shape or surface type.

The easy-to-access top-load filter basket simplifies debris removal and maintenance, enhancing your pool cleaning experience. However, it may not be the lightest option at 35.4 pounds, which could be a drawback for some users when handling the device out of water. Despite this, its plug-and-play efficiency and Wi-Fi connectivity make scheduling cleanings and operating the vacuum effortless.

The device also stands out with a legacy of over 40 years in the industry. It doesn’t require assembly, and the app-controlled feature adds a modern touch to pool maintenance. This cleaner is ideal for those looking for a reliable, automatic solution with minimal manual intervention.

The Dolphin Nautilus CC is a robotic pool vacuum designed to make pool cleaning easier and more thorough. It uses corded electric power, meaning there is no need to worry about battery life or charging, though an outlet needs to be nearby. Weighing around 15 pounds, it is light enough to handle easily when placing it in or removing it from your pool. Its top-load filter basket is simple to remove and clean, helping maintain clear water with minimal hassle.

A standout feature is the active scrubbing brush that climbs pool walls and cleans various surfaces gently but effectively. This allows it to reach spots many cleaners miss, although it does not clean the waterline area where grime often builds up. The plug-and-play setup is straightforward — just plug it in, place it in your pool, and it runs for about two hours to clean pools up to 33 feet long.

It performs well on different surfaces and offers solid suction power for debris removal, but being corded limits mobility compared to battery-powered handheld cleaners. Additionally, as a robotic vacuum rather than a manual handheld device, it may not suit those wanting full control during cleaning. Its solid build and the brand’s long history in pool care add reliability and durability. This product is ideal for pool owners who prefer set-it-and-forget-it cleaning with strong scrubbing action, especially for in-ground or above-ground pools within its size range, offering good value and ease of maintenance.

The Kokido Rechargeable Handheld Pool Vacuum (2025 upgrade) is a solid choice for cleaning smaller above-ground pools, hot tubs, and spas up to 20 feet in size. Its cordless design powered by a lithium-ion battery offers the convenience of wireless use and about 60 minutes of runtime, which is enough for spot cleaning sessions. The vacuum provides decent suction with a flow rate of 10 gallons per minute, improved from previous models, making it effective at picking up common debris like leaves, sand, and dirt.

Weighing just over 3 pounds, it’s light and easy to handle, especially with the included 72-inch aluminum pole and two brush heads that help you reach tight corners and edges. The vacuum is also quiet in operation, producing about 60 decibels, which means it won't disturb your pool time. Its compact filter holds roughly 0.1 gallons of debris, suitable for frequent quick cleanups but may require emptying often during heavy-duty use.

Charging takes about 5 hours, which is reasonable for its battery life, but if you have larger pools or frequent cleaning needs, you might find the runtime limiting. The device features safety measures like automatic shutoff when out of water and is waterproof to IPX8 standards, adding durability and user peace of mind. The filter capacity is on the smaller side, so it's better suited for light debris rather than heavy buildup. Some users might find the need to manually assemble and maintain the vacuum a mild inconvenience. This Kokido handheld vacuum is a convenient, lightweight, and fairly powerful tool for spot cleaning smaller pools and spas, best for users who want a cordless, easy-to-use option without tackling large or very dirty pools.