10 Best Rated Above Ground Pool Vacuums 2025 in the United States

The Dolphin Nautilus CC is a robotic pool vacuum designed to make cleaning above-ground or in-ground pools up to 33 feet long much easier. One of its standout features is its ability to climb and scrub pool walls, which helps get rid of dirt and grime thoroughly without manual effort. Its active scrubbing brush is gentle on pool surfaces but tough on debris, meaning it cleans effectively without causing damage. This cleaner uses a top-load filter basket, making it simple to remove collected debris and keep water clear—a convenient feature that reduces maintenance hassle.

You just plug it in, drop it in the pool, and it runs for about two hours to cover the entire pool floor and walls, though it does not clean the waterline, so some manual cleaning might still be needed there. The build quality is solid with durable plastic materials, and the vacuum weighs under 15 pounds, making it manageable to handle. However, since it’s corded electric, you need a power source nearby, which could limit mobility slightly.

This Dolphin model fits well for pool owners who want an automated, efficient way to maintain a clean pool with minimal effort, especially if they prioritize thorough wall cleaning and easy debris removal. If your priority is waterline cleaning or complete cordless convenience, you might want to consider alternatives.

The Polaris VRX iQ+ Smart Robotic Pool Cleaner is a high-end option for maintaining above-ground pools, offering several advanced features. This vacuum uses Vortex Vacuum technology providing strong suction power, which makes it effective in picking up debris from the pool floors up to the waterline. Its 70-foot cable with a tangle-reducing swivel ensures extensive cleaning coverage without getting stuck, which is beneficial for larger pools.

The cleaner includes a large, illuminated debris canister, making it easy to see when it needs to be emptied, adding to the convenience factor. The iAquaLink app control allows users to schedule cleanings, receive status updates, and access various cleaning modes remotely, enhancing ease of use. The 7 cleaning modes, including a waterline-only mode, offer customized cleaning options tailored to different needs.

Durability and build quality seem robust with an aluminum body, although it is quite heavy at 44 pounds, which might be a consideration for users who need to lift it frequently. Maintenance appears straightforward due to the accessible debris canister, but given its advanced features, it could require occasional technical troubleshooting. The Polaris VRX iQ+ is well-suited for those looking for a comprehensive and customizable pool cleaning solution, especially tech-savvy users who appreciate app control and smart features. However, those seeking a budget-friendly or lightweight option might find this model less appealing due to its higher price point and weight.

The Dolphin E10 Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner is designed specifically for above-ground pools up to 30 feet in length. One of its notable strengths is its active scrubbing brush, which effectively eliminates debris and reduces the need for manual cleaning. This makes it a convenient option for maintaining a clean pool. The top-load filter basket is another positive feature, as it simplifies the process of removing debris, making maintenance straightforward and user-friendly.

Additionally, the vacuum's plug-and-play system ensures that setting it up is hassle-free—just plug it in, drop it into the pool, and it cleans in approximately 1.5 hours. The Smart Navigation Technology helps the robot scan and clean efficiently, regardless of the pool's shape or surface type. The build quality appears to be solid, supported by Dolphin's reputation for durability and performance over the past 40 years.

However, it's important to consider that the vacuum weighs 14.52 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for some users when handling it out of the pool. Another point to note is that it requires 240 volts of power, which is typical but something to verify with your home's power setup. While the unit is not discontinued and continues to be a reliable choice, it is always good to compare it with other models to ensure it fits all your specific needs.