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The 7 best robotic pool cleaners 2024?

by Laura

Robotic pool cleaner Feature image
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Sparkling clean water in the pool is a real highlight on warm days. But anyone who owns a pool knows what a time-consuming job cleaning is. Spending hours brushing and fishing dirt, replacing filters… That can quickly spoil the fun. A robotic pool cleaner takes over all cleaning tasks relating to the pool water and works completely autonomously. All it needs is a charged battery.

Recognize quality:

BeyondSurfing has taken a closer look at over 100 of the most popular robotic pool cleaners at 2024 and presents the top models 2024.

Avoid buying mistakes:

In our buying guide, you can find out how to recognize good quality and how to identify defective products. This will help you make an informed purchasing decision that will make your summer a complete success.

The best robotic pool cleaners 2024?

In a hurry? Our robotic pool cleaner favorite:

Meranus robotic pool cleaner Power 4.0*
What characterizes the offer?

  • Large filter basket
  • Strong suction power
  • With brushes for the floor, walls and waterline
  • 16 m long cable
  • Transparent window on the filter basket

Robotic pool cleaner Checklist

  • Price: A robotic pool cleaner is not cheap. Every buyer must be aware of this. A robot costing less than 200 $ cannot be of high quality, as the parts used have to be technically sophisticated.
  • Size of the pool: There are robots for smaller pools and those designed for larger pools. The product must match your own pool.
  • Technical extras: A robotic pool cleaner can come with all kinds of extra equipment. For example, an extra-long cable, a transparent filter basket for viewing the fill level or side brushes that can clean the walls of the pool.
  • Operating mode: Some robots run on a rechargeable battery and others on mains power. A rechargeable battery makes sense if the nearest power source is very far away from the pool. However, this must always be sufficiently charged and is often more expensive.
  • Drive: For uneven floors (e.g. for above-ground pools with a tarpaulin that can wrinkle), it is worth using a robotic pool cleaner with all-wheel drive. This can also overcome unevenness.

Also interesting: The most popular instantaneous water heaters.

The 7 best robotic pool cleaners 2024

How do we rate? Our experts thoroughly research and evaluate each recommendation. We take into account the most important product features, adherence to quality standards, prices, customer reviews, our own experiences, and much more. Learn more about our process.

Best robotic pool cleaner with extra large filter basket

1. meranus robotic pool cleaner Power 4.0

Advantages

  • Large filter basket
  • Strong suction power
  • With brushes for the floor, walls and waterline
  • 16 m long cable
  • Transparent window on the filter basket

Disadvantages

  • Without battery
  • Not for pools over 50 m2

Conclusion

Anyone looking for a very modern model that incorporates all the latest technical innovations will find what they are looking for here. This powerful robotic pool cleaner from the manufacturer Meranus can clean the walls, pool floor and waterline. The PVC brushes are effective but gentle on the material.

The removable filter box is particularly large. This means it has to be changed less often. The connection cable is 16 meters long, making it easily accessible even for power sources that are a little further away.

The robotic pool cleaner can also suck up dirt from the side. This means that large areas can be cleaned more quickly.

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 65% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Around 35% are neutral about the product, while 0% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

Best robotic pool cleaner for Intex pools

2. Intex Auto Pool Cleaner

Special Offer

Advantages

  • Can also be used in salt water
  • Compatible with 38 mm hose connection
  • Operation easily adjustable even for beginners
  • Currently reduced in price
  • Fully automatic cleaning program
  • Connection suitable for all Intex pools

Disadvantages

  • Not compatible with other brands
  • Not suitable for every Intex pool

Conclusion

This Intex robot is an automatic cleaning hero. The connection is made easily via a 38 mm hose access. This is represented in the majority of Intex models.

A built-in sensor ensures that the robotic pool cleaner finds its way effortlessly through the pool. Piece by piece, the entire surface is cleaned and the pool shines in new splendor.

The model can also be used in a salt water pool. The material is so robust that salt cannot harm it. Handling is very simple and no problem even for beginners. The enclosed instructions further simplify the process.

If you do not have an Intex pool, or connections with +/- 38 mm, you will have to look for a different model.

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 79% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Customers recommend connecting the vacuum cleaner at night. It then works completely independently and leaves no corner of the pool untouched. Some children even stood on the device and let themselves be carried through the water – the robot didn’t mind. It is robust, powerful and reliable. The price-performance ratio is also impressive. The robotic vacuum cleaner saves a lot of work and keeps the pool clean in a convenient way.

Around 8% are neutral about the product, while 12% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

If the ground is not completely smooth, the wheels will occasionally get stuck. A smooth surface is important for smooth operation. One customer recommends removing the ladder from the pool to make it easier for the robot to clean every corner.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

Best high quality robotic pool cleaner with PVC brush

3. Dolphin E40i robotic pool cleaner

No product found.

Advantages

  • Compatible with many brands
  • Fully automatic pool cleaner
  • Easy handling
  • Compatible with various pumps

Disadvantages

  • Cannot be used without a pump

Conclusion

It is a high-quality robotic pool cleaner with a fair price-performance ratio.money. The robot can be combined with different pool manufacturers. It reliably cleans the floor, walls and waterline.

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 99% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Some have optimized the performance of the robot by using a different hose. The design is simple and appealing. The robot looks a bit like a futuristic underwater drone. Installation was very easy for most customers. It cleans thoroughly and reliably. The price is fair and customers are overwhelmingly enthusiastic.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

Best robotic pool cleaner with all-wheel drive

4. robotic pool cleaner with all-wheel drive

Advantages

  • Removes even heavy soiling
  • Fine-pored filter
  • Anti-shedding system
  • Modern design
  • All-wheel drive
  • Suction power with 200 L/H
  • Extensive scrubber

Disadvantages

  • High price
  • Only compatible with Intex models

Conclusion

If you are prepared to dig a little deeper into your pocket for your pool vacuum cleaner, you will get a lot of useful technical extras for your money. Intex offers an all-wheel drive that makes it almost impossible to get stuck. This robot also has particularly fast locomotion.

The suction power of this cleaner is exceptionally powerful at 200 liters/hour. It can be operated with all Intex pumps with a flow rate of 1,600-3,500 Gal/H. Another extra: the built-in scrubbers with dual function also remove stubborn and very fine-pored dirt.

The design is modern and very robust. The surface is roughened and appears almost like a metallic paint finish familiar from some cars. Visually, this robotic pool cleaner does not give away the fact that plastic was used for the cladding.

But be careful: The model is only compatible with certain Intex pumps. Make sure that your pump fits before you buy it.

Customer ratings

Best robotic pool cleaner with automatic dipping function

5. flowclear aquatronix robotic pool cleaner

Advantages

  • Futuristic design
  • For pools up to 45 m2
  • Stainless steel sieve
  • Compatible with many manufacturers
  • Operation without hose or cable
  • Patented design
  • Dive function
  • Water sensor
  • Simple filter cleaning

Disadvantages

  • High price
  • Only one design available

Conclusion

This pool cleaning robot from Bestway keeps the water clean easily, quietly and reliably. Unlike other models, it works completely without a cable or hose.

The dirt is collected in a filter sieve. This has a capacity of up to 4.5 liters of dirt. It therefore does not need to be emptied very often. The product is compatible with all models that have a smooth floor.

The fully charged battery lasts for approx. 90 minutes of cleaning. The price is justified in view of the high-quality technology.

Customers who want to spend less money prefer to opt for a cheaper product.

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 69% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Other manufacturers require long hoses, but this vacuum cleaner works completely without these annoying connections. Operation is simple and the instructions are clearly written. There is a 2-year guarantee on the product. Customers have had positive experiences with this set. The good ratings relate in particular to the suction power and the fast charging time of the battery. The wireless operation is also praised.

Around 11% are neutral about the product, while 20% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

The robot has difficulties on uneven floors. However, this is also expressly declared by the manufacturer. Some customers criticize the workmanship. They had to make use of the warranty and order a replacement product.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

Best robotic pool cleaner with extra long cable and timer

6. white Bestway Falcon robotic pool cleaner

Advantages

  • Fully automatic
  • Robust tires
  • Timer
  • Powerful brush
  • Incl. Water filter
  • 12 meter long cable

Disadvantages

  • Only one design
  • No wireless operation possible

Conclusion

Customers who can spend a little more money will find a high-tech robotic pool cleaner in this product. Even the finest grains of sand cannot escape its brushes.

The fully automatic robotic pool cleaner cleans the bottom of the pool in two ways: a powerful brush scrubs even stubborn dirt from the material, while the vacuum cleaner sucks up the loose dirt and filters the water in the process.

An integrated timer enables automatic cleaning at fixed scheduled times. This makes pool hygiene even more relaxed. Even the finest impurities are filtered out of the water.

The robot can be used in ponds, pools and on uneven ground. It can submerge to a depth of up to 2 meters and clean an area of up to 70 m2.

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 74% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Around 10% are neutral about the product, while 16% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

Best robotic pool cleaner with floor and wall vacuum combined

7. fully automatic pool cleaner, floor and wall vacuum cleaner in gray

Advantages

  • Cleans floors and walls
  • Drainable filter
  • Fully automatic
  • Simple operation
  • Highly absorbent

Disadvantages

  • High price
  • No battery

Conclusion

Anyone who values clean walls in the pool will be very satisfied with this robotic pool cleaner. This is because it cleans the bottom and sides of the pool very effectively. This ensures particularly hygienic conditions in your pool.

The design is modern and high quality. The silicone brushes are easy to clean should this ever be necessary. The built-in filter can be pulled out and emptied with a flick of the wrist.

The cable required for operation is connected to a control box, which is connected to a power source. This is rainproof and handy.

The price is in the upper segment. If you want to save money, you have to choose a different model.

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 83% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Some customers describe the product as a “luxury” robot. It works very efficiently and most buyers would recommend it without hesitation. The price-performance ratio is right. The manufacturer delivers quickly. A free fine filter is usually also supplied. The cleaning result is excellent.

Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 10% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

One customer had the problem that the filter was not working properly. The extracted dirt particles were simply swirled around in the water. This was probably due to an error in the model supplied. This was then successfully replaced.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

Evaluation: robotic pool cleaners reviewed

Evaluation Criteria: The most important features of pool robots in direct comparison. Find out what makes a good product in our tests in the guide.
NamePrice*Battery-powered?Salt water compatible?Fully automatic?All-wheel drive?Side brushes?
Intex Auto Pool Cleaner209 $NoYesYesNoNo
Cleaning robots without electricity109 $YesNoYesNoNo
Robotic pool cleaner with all-wheel drive209 $NoNoYesNoNo
Flowclear Aquatronix robotic pool cleaner249 $YesNoYesNoNo
Bestway Falcon robotic pool cleaner white242 $NoNoYesNoYes
Fully automatic pool cleaner498 $NoNoYesNoYes
Meranus robotic pool cleaner Power 4.0507 $NoNoYesYesYes
*Approximateprice incl. VAT included. Prices may change in the meantime.

Bestsellers: The most popular robotic pool cleaners

What do others buy? In our bestseller list, we present the TOP 11 most purchased offers. The selection is updated daily.

(**Last update 2024-12-09)

Buy a robotic pool cleaner:
How to make the right decision

Robotic pool cleaner guide picture

Since I’ve owned a robotic pool cleaner, our pool is much shinier and always ready for use. It wasn’t always easy to keep the water clean with children. They carry a lot of dirt into the tank when they jump in and out. But that is no longer a problem today. They even gave our robotic pool cleaner a name: Wall-E.

Anna Behler ★★★★★
Pool owner from Freiburg


What seemed futuristic a few years ago has long since become part of everyday life in many people’s gardens. A pool that is kept clean by a robot. The following guide provides an overview of the criteria that play a role in the purchasing decision. Common questions are asked and answered here.

What to consider when buying a robotic pool cleaner?

When looking for the best robotic pool cleaner, you should definitely pay attention to the following features and characteristics:

Pro tip: Check thoroughly whether the product you have selected is really compatible with your own pool.

What size and length?

Robotic pool cleaners that work without a battery have hoses or cables attached for operation. These must match the pool and the available connection. This means a hose with sufficient width and length and a cable that reaches the power source.

If the pool is far away from the mains and is particularly deep, a cordless and battery-operated vacuum cleaner is worthwhile. This is because manufacturers usually do not offer cables longer than 20 meters.

Which operating mode – do I need a fully automatic robot?

Robotic pool cleaners are used in different ways:

  1. Automatic vacuum robots with timer
  2. Manual vacuum robots with push-button operation

It is important to answer the following questions when buying:

  • Is my pool particularly deep?
  • Do I have little time to check the operation of my robotic pool cleaner?
  • Is the pool used regularly and is it susceptible to soiling?

If the answer to these questions is yes, the best choice is a fully automatic robot vacuum cleaner. This can easily be set using a timer and cleaning can also be carried out at night, for example.

  • Is my pool particularly angled?
  • Is the floor rather uneven and bumpy?
  • Does my pool have an unusual shape (round pool or similar)?

If the answer to these questions is yes, the best choice is a robotic pool cleaner that is started up manually. It is worth checking the cleaning process visually again and again.

The connections: Which ones fit my pool?

There are robotic pool cleaners that are installed on the built-in jets in the pool. Others are operated via the external pump. Handheld vacuum cleaners can also be connected to some pumps or simply operated via the garden hose.

As a general rule, not every connection is long enough or fits every pump nozzle. The information in the manufacturer’s product details should therefore be strictly observed.

The drive: Which type of drive is suitable for which pool?

Robotic pool cleaners are usually operated with two types of drive:

  • Water nozzles
  • Wheel drive (front or all-wheel drive)

Water jets have the advantage that they are significantly more powerful than the conventional wheel drive. They also work reliably on uneven ground. However, if the wheel drive is an all-wheel drive, then it is just as powerful as the water jets. This is worthwhile for frame pools, for example, which can throw bumps.

Robotic pool cleaner tests by Consumer Reports and Öko Test?

To date, neither Consumer Reports nor Öko Test have published analyses on the quality and safety of robotic pool cleaners. Accordingly, no recommendations or robotic pool cleaner test winners are yet available from the platforms.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about robotic pool cleaners

How do robotic pool cleaners work?

A robotic pool cleaner is a type of robot vacuum cleaner, only for the bottom of a swimming pool. It scans the floor of the pool using sensors and brushes up the dirt in the process. This is then collected in a filter basket, which must be emptied regularly. Such a device is powered by electricity, a rechargeable battery or the power of a water pump.

Which pools are robotic pool cleaners suitable for?

There are robotic pool cleaner models for almost every pool. But extremely small pools can be cleaned much better manually. (e.g. hot tubs). In general, robotic pool cleaners have an easier time on smooth surfaces – i.e. tiled pools. However, there are special drives that allow the robot to travel over uneven ground.

Which robotic pool cleaner is the best?

So far, there is no test winner from Consumer Reports or other independent platforms. Not every model is equally suitable for every pool. For this reason, no general recommendation should be made for the best product. BeyondSurfings comparison shows the most popular products 2024.

Which is better a pool vacuum cleaner or robotic pool cleaner?

A pool vacuum cleaner is well suited for small pools such as a hot tub. A robotic pool cleaner is ideal for large or deep pools. Especially if they are susceptible to dirt. It is therefore a question of where it is used.

How often should I use a robotic pool cleaner?

Depending on how dirty the pool gets, it can be activated more or less frequently. The degree of soiling is determined by factors such as nearby trees and bushes, frequent use, children who leave the pool a lot and jump back in from the lawn, etc.

How long should I leave a robotic pool cleaner running?

How long a robot has to work depends on the size of the pool and the strength of the robot. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s operating instructions for your specific model.

What are well-known robotic pool cleaner brands and manufacturers?

The best-known and most popular robotic pool cleaner brands & manufacturers include:

  • Bestway
  • Vortex
  • Intex
  • Steinbach
  • Zodiac robotic pool cleaner
  • Dolphin Poolrunner

Here, customers can rely on experience, quality and customer service. But some younger manufacturers also offer high-quality products. BeyondSurfing has taken these into account in the product recommendations.

Which robotic pool cleaner for saltwater pools?

Special models must be used for salt water pools. Their material must be able to withstand the aggressive salt in the water. This model from Intex, for example, is suitable.

What do good robotic pool cleaners cost?

Buyers should expect to pay at least 200 $ for a robot. Prices of around 500 $ are common for higher-quality models.

Where can I buy robotic pool cleaners?

Specialist stores such as Obi and Hornbach occasionally have robotic pool cleaners on offer during the season. Otherwise, websites such as Maytronics and Amazon offer a large selection of models and accessories.

What to look out for when buying a robotic pool cleaner?

If you have a pool that is far away from a power source, you need a model that runs on battery power. If you have a pool pump, you can buy a model that is connected to it. If your pool has an uneven bottom, a jet or water jet drive is worthwhile. For more information before you buy, read BeyondSurfing’s guide.

How often should a robotic pool cleaner be cleaned?

It is important to check the filter basket regularly. There are some models with a fill level indicator. There are also manufacturers who offer a reminder app for emptying. The more dirt in the pool or the smaller the filter basket, the more frequent the cleaning.

What are customer experiences with robotic pool cleaners?

There are different experiences. Most customers are extremely satisfied with models that work well. This is because they make cleaning much easier and are extremely convenient to use. It only gets annoying when a product doesn’t work properly or customer service fails.

Editor's note: The opinions expressed here are those of the author alone. The content has not been endorsed, reviewed, approved, or in any way financially supported by any advertiser. We only include products we believe to be useful. How we work

*Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.

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Laura

Beach and snorkeling expert
Laura lives in Greece and couldn't imagine a day without the sea on her doorstep. When she's not writing for BeyondSurfing, she likes to spend her free time on the beach or in the water with snorkeling gear.

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