10 Best Portable Pool Cleaners 2025 in the United States

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner is a reliable option for maintaining in-ground pools up to 33 feet in length. One of its key strengths is its wall-scrubbing ability, ensuring thorough cleaning of all pool surfaces, regardless of shape or material. The active scrubbing brush effectively removes debris, which means less manual effort for pool maintenance.

The convenient top-load filter basket makes it easy to clean and maintain, ensuring crystal-clear water with minimal fuss. The included Universal Caddy enhances portability and storage, making it effortless to move the cleaner around and keep the cable organized.

With over 40 years of expertise, Dolphin promises durability and efficient performance, complemented by smart navigation and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing control through an app. However, the weight of 40 pounds might be cumbersome for some users when handling it without the caddy. Additionally, being battery-powered offers the advantage of no need for constant charging, but users must remember to regularly maintain and charge the lithium-ion battery. This pool cleaner is ideal for users looking for a hassle-free, durable, and efficient cleaning experience for their in-ground pools.

The Dolphin Nautilus Pool Up Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner is designed for both above-ground and in-ground pools up to 26 feet in length. This model offers efficient cleaning with its wall-scrubbing capability, ensuring thorough cleaning of both the pool floor and walls. Its smart automation feature allows for easy one-touch operation, making it convenient for users who prefer a hassle-free cleaning experience. The plug-and-play system further simplifies the process; you just need to drop it in the pool and power it on.

This vacuum cleaner utilizes active scrubbing brushes that are gentle on pool surfaces but effective against debris, reducing the need for manual cleaning. The product’s design is robust, with a weight of 28.5 pounds, which suggests durable construction and the ability to handle substantial cleaning tasks. The Dolphin brand is known for its reliability and performance in pool cleaning, and this model is no exception. However, its weight might make it a bit cumbersome for some users when handling or storing.

Additionally, it is powered by an AC source, which means it requires access to a power outlet, limiting its portability compared to battery-operated models. The cleaner is well-suited for small pools and those looking for efficient and thorough cleaning with minimal manual effort. But for larger or more uniquely shaped pools, users might need to consider whether it can adequately cover their needs.

The Polaris 9650iQ Sport is a robotic pool cleaner designed for in-ground pools up to 60 feet long, making it suitable for medium to large residential pools. It stands out with smart features like WiFi connectivity and app control through the iAquaLink app, allowing you to start or stop cleaning remotely from your phone or even via Amazon Alexa. This makes managing pool cleaning convenient, especially if you want to run the cleaner while away from home.

The cleaner boasts strong suction and a 4-wheel drive system, which helps it climb over pool obstacles without getting stuck, ensuring thorough coverage. Its 70-foot swivel cable reduces tangling, and the 5-liter debris canister is larger than many competitors, meaning less frequent emptying during cleaning sessions. The filter canister is also easy to access, which simplifies maintenance.

Being battery-powered with a lithium-ion battery, it operates without the hassle of cords plugged into an outlet, giving you more flexibility in pool placement. However, battery life may limit cleaning time, especially for very large pools or heavy debris. The cleaner is relatively heavy at about 45 pounds, which might make handling and moving it a bit challenging for some users. The Polaris 9650iQ Sport is a solid choice if you want a smart, easy-to-use robotic cleaner for a medium to large in-ground pool, focusing on convenience and strong cleaning performance. Its advanced app controls and tangle-free cable provide strong usability benefits, but if you prefer a lighter unit or have connectivity concerns, you might want to consider alternatives.