10 Best Vacuum Pool Cleaners 2026 in the United States

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wi-Fi Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner is a strong contender for those with in-ground pools up to 50 feet. It's a convenient option for pool owners who value ease of use and efficient cleaning. The robotic cleaner can be controlled via Wi-Fi, allowing you to schedule cleanings from anywhere, which adds a layer of convenience. Its ability to climb walls ensures a thorough clean, making it suitable for various pool shapes and surfaces.

The top-load filter basket is user-friendly, making maintenance relatively easy. The plug-and-play system simplifies the setup and operation, allowing the cleaner to provide a spotless pool in just 2 hours. The vacuum cleaner is also designed to be energy-efficient, helping to keep operational costs low. However, at 35.4 pounds, it may be somewhat heavy for some users to handle.

The cleaner is backed by over 40 years of Dolphin's expertise in pool cleaning, suggesting reliability and long-term usage. The product dimensions and weight may be a consideration for storage and handling, but these do not detract significantly from its utility. This vacuum cleaner is ideal for pool owners looking for a reliable, easy-to-use, and efficient cleaning solution.

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner is a versatile and efficient choice for maintaining both above-ground and in-ground pools up to 33 feet in length. Its wall-climbing ability ensures a thorough cleaning on various pool surfaces, although it does not clean the waterline. The active scrubbing brush effectively removes debris, making pool maintenance easier and reducing the need for manual effort.

User-friendly features such as the top-load filter basket and plug-and-play system enhance convenience, allowing for a hassle-free cleaning experience. The product is lightweight at 14.76 pounds and made of durable plastic, indicative of its sturdy construction. The Dolphin brand assures reliability with over 40 years in the industry, and the positive customer reviews further testify to its performance.

However, it must be noted that the warranty is limited, which could be a concern for long-term durability. Additionally, the cleaner's reliance on corded electric power means it needs to be connected to a power source during operation, which might limit mobility compared to battery-operated models. This cleaner is best suited for users looking for a high-efficiency, easy-to-use pool cleaning solution, particularly for medium-sized pools. Despite a few limitations, its robust performance and ease of use make it a strong contender in the category of vacuum-pool-cleaners.

The Polaris VRX iQ+ is a smart robotic pool cleaner designed to handle a variety of pool shapes and sizes thanks to its SMART Cycle Cleaning Mode, which adjusts cleaning time based on your pool’s specifics. It’s suitable for medium to large pools, with a long 70-foot cable that helps cover larger areas without tangling, so you won’t have to constantly manage the cord. The 4-wheel drive and Vortex Vacuum technology provide strong suction, capable of picking up various debris from the pool floor to the waterline, which is great if your pool collects both fine and larger debris.

You can control and schedule cleaning remotely through the iAquaLink app, making it easy and convenient to use without manual operation. The illuminated debris canister is large and transparent, so it’s simple to see when it’s time to empty it, which adds to the ease of maintenance. With seven cleaning modes, including a waterline-only option, it offers flexibility for different cleaning needs.

The cleaner weighs 44 pounds, which might make it a bit heavy to handle when removing it from the pool. Its aluminum build promises durability, but the limited warranty means you should keep an eye on long-term reliability. Energy-wise, it’s efficient for the power it offers, but being AC-powered means it must be plugged in during use, limiting mobility to the cable length. This robotic cleaner is a solid option for pool owners looking for a smart, hands-off cleaning experience with strong suction and good debris management, especially if you have a medium to large pool and want app control. However, if you prefer ultra-light or battery-powered models, or need extensive warranty coverage, you might want to consider alternatives.