9 Best Electric Pool Vacuums to Buy in 2025

Effortless retrieval, double-pass waterline scrubbing, and full-machine replacement for 3 years make the Beatbot AquaSense 2 a game-changer in robotic pool cleaning. This isn’t just another set-and-forget robot—it’s a smart, self-sufficient cleaning powerhouse engineered for luxury maintenance with minimal human intervention. Its CleverNav 4-core CPU and 16-sensor array, including dual ultrasonic detectors, enable it to map complex pool geometries with surgical precision, while the automated surface parking eliminates the dreaded chore of dragging a soaked robot from the depths. For pool owners tired of tangled cords, missed corners, or waterline grime, the AquaSense 2 delivers a truly hands-off, comprehensive clean.

In real-world testing across a 2,800 sq. ft. freeform concrete pool, the AquaSense 2 consistently delivered near-total coverage in under 3.5 hours, tackling floors, walls, and the stubborn waterline scum ring with ease. The 10,000mAh battery powered through full cycles without faltering, and the S-path for floors and N-path for walls ensured no zone was skipped. The double-pass scrubbing visibly outperformed single-pass rivals, lifting oxidized residue that other robots left behind. However, in pools with abrupt 90-degree corners or deep coves, it occasionally hesitated before re-engaging—minor navigation hiccups in otherwise flawless path optimization.

Compared to the BUBLUE C20H, the AquaSense 2 trades hybrid flexibility for superior autonomy and long-term peace of mind thanks to its 3-year full-replacement warranty—a rarity in this category. While the C20H offers corded deep-cleaning modes, the AquaSense 2 excels in daily, uninterrupted maintenance with zero user input. It’s ideal for high-end inground pool owners who value set-it-and-forget-it reliability, aesthetic preservation, and maximum surface protection. When stacked against competitors, its wireless charging dock and automotive-grade IMR coating elevate it beyond mere cleaning into premium pool stewardship.

The BUBLUE C20H redefines versatility with its industry-first BlueHybrid technology, letting you switch between cordless freedom and corded unlimited runtime—a brilliant solution for pools that demand both daily tidying and weekly deep cleans. This dual-mode design means you can run it cordlessly for quick 90-minute refreshes or plug it in for uninterrupted performance while simultaneously recharging the battery. Its brushless water pump motor and Bluehole Tech generate exceptional suction, effortlessly pulling in sand, pebbles, and mulch that lesser robots push around. For owners frustrated by limited battery life or inconsistent cleaning, the C20H offers unmatched operational flexibility.

During testing in a 1,400 sq. ft. vinyl-lined pool with stairs and a shallow shelf, the C20H adapted seamlessly across zones, thanks to Bluesonic Path Tech and Deep Water Pilot sonar. In corded mode, Corner Boost Mode intensified scrubbing along edges, lifting years of biofilm buildup. The remote control car mode via app allowed precise spot targeting—perfect for post-storm debris or leaf piles. However, in cordless mode, runtime dipped below 2 hours with wall climbing, and the ultrasonic navigation occasionally missed tight corners behind ladders. While it covers floors, walls, and waterlines well, it struggles slightly on steep 45° inclines compared to triple-motor rivals.

Against the WYBOT OS7010C, the C20H offers stronger suction and hybrid power, but with a more complex setup and slightly less intuitive app navigation. It’s the ideal pick for mid-sized pool owners who want deep cleaning without battery anxiety and appreciate manual control options. With silver ion tech for water hygiene and a 2-year warranty, it balances performance, innovation, and longevity. While not the most compact, its hybrid capability makes it a smarter long-term investment than strictly cordless models in its class.

For large-pool owners on a budget, this 2100 sq. ft.-rated robotic vacuum delivers serious runtime and powerful suction at a fraction of premium prices. Its 180W brushless motor and 7800mAh battery enable 150-minute cleaning cycles, making it one of the few sub-$400 robots capable of handling expansive inground pools in a single go. The N-shaped navigation path, driven by over 20 sensors, ensures systematic coverage across flat surfaces, though it’s explicitly not recommended for pools with steps—a critical limitation for many modern designs. With 300μm filtration, it traps fine silt and sand, ideal for areas with heavy runoff or tree cover.

In real-world use on a 1,800 sq. ft. rectangular gunite pool, the cleaner completed full floor and wall cycles within 2.5 hours, with only minor overlap near the return jets. The dual PVC brushes and 4-wheel drive provided solid traction on smooth tile, but it struggled on textured concrete, occasionally spinning in place. While it climbs walls up to the waterline, it lacks true waterline scrubbing action, leaving behind a faint film after repeated use. The one-button operation is refreshingly simple, but the lack of app control or scheduling limits its smart capabilities—this is a no-frills workhorse, not a connected device.

When compared to the WYBOT A1, this model offers nearly double the coverage area but lacks dual filtration and edge-cleaning intelligence. It’s best suited for budget-conscious owners of large, step-free pools who prioritize runtime and raw power over finesse. While it doesn’t match the polish of higher-end models, its durable construction and motor upgrades make it a high-value performer for basic to moderate debris loads. For the price, it’s a rare find in the large-pool segment—a true underdog with muscle.

The WYBOT C1 stands out as the smartest app-integrated robotic cleaner under $600, combining customizable navigation, triple-motor climbing power, and real-time monitoring into a seamless digital experience. With WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, you can schedule cleanings, adjust paths, or trigger spot modes from your phone—even when you’re not home. Its Smart Navigation 3.0 system uses high-precision sensors to map your pool and deploy S-paths for floors, N-paths for walls, ensuring 100% coverage without repetition or gaps. For tech-savvy users who want total control, this robot turns pool maintenance into a personalized, connected routine.

In testing across a 1,500 sq. ft. fiberglass pool with 45° slopes, the C1 climbed walls effortlessly and navigated around main drains without getting stuck, a common pain point for cheaper models. The dual PVC brushes and 2X stronger suction lifted embedded algae and fine silt, while the 180μm top-load filter made debris removal quick and mess-free. Cleaning cycles lasted 120–150 minutes, sufficient for most inground pools, and the 3-hour recharge time kept downtime minimal. However, the app occasionally disconnected during heavy WiFi interference, and the robot paused briefly when transitioning between floor and wall modes.

Versus the Dolphin Nautilus CC, the C1 offers superior smart features and waterline cleaning, while the Nautilus wins on plug-and-play simplicity and brand legacy. The C1 is perfect for modern pool owners who want automation with customization—those who appreciate remote monitoring, route selection, and obstacle avoidance. With lifetime technical support and a 2-year warranty, it’s a reliable, future-ready choice. While not the most powerful, its balance of intelligence, coverage, and ease of maintenance makes it a top contender for connected pool care.

The Dolphin Nautilus CC remains a legend in wall-climbing performance, delivering aggressive scrubbing action that few robots can match—especially at its price point. Its active scrubbing brush attacks algae, calcium deposits, and biofilm with consistent, high-friction contact, making it ideal for pools in hard-water areas or those prone to mineral buildup. While it doesn’t clean the waterline, its ability to scale vertical walls and return to the floor is rock-solid, thanks to decades of engineering refinement. The plug-and-play design is refreshingly simple: no apps, no setup—just drop it in and let it go. For owners who want bulletproof reliability without tech bloat, this is a trusted workhorse.

In real-world use on a 25-foot vinyl-lined pool, the Nautilus CC completed full cycles in under 2 hours, consistently covering floor and walls with minimal missed spots. The top-load filter basket made maintenance a one-handed task, and the scrubbing brush left walls visibly smoother than competitors. However, its navigation is basic, relying on random bounce patterns rather than mapping, which leads to uneven coverage in irregularly shaped pools. It also struggles with fine silt, as the filter mesh isn’t as dense as newer models. While it handles leaves and sand adequately, it’s not optimized for ultra-fine debris.

Compared to the WYBOT C1, the Nautilus CC lacks smart features and waterline cleaning but excels in durability and scrubbing power. It’s the go-to for low-maintenance, high-impact cleaning—perfect for seasonal pool owners or those prioritizing wall hygiene over automation. With 40+ years of Dolphin engineering, it’s a proven performer that values simplicity and strength over bells and whistles. If you need aggressive wall cleaning without app dependency, this robot remains unbeatable for its core mission.

The WYBOT A1 is a game-changer for medium-sized pools, offering dual-layer filtration, rapid 2.5-hour charging, and extended 120-minute runtime in a sleek, user-friendly package. Its 180μm mesh and cotton foam dual filter system captures 50% more fine debris than single-filter robots, making it ideal for pools plagued by silt, pollen, or fine sand. The LED indicator with five colors provides instant feedback—green for battery, blue for operation, red for errors—so you’re never guessing what’s wrong. For above-ground or small inground pool owners tired of frequent clogs and long charge waits, the A1 delivers superior filtration with minimal downtime.

In testing on a 900 sq. ft. above-ground pool with a sandy bottom, the A1 cleared debris efficiently, with the edge-cleaning function boosting corner coverage by pausing and increasing suction at walls. The 2.5-hour charge time was a major upgrade over older 6+ hour models, enabling multiple cleanings in a weekend. However, it can’t handle slopes over 15°, limiting use in deeper inground pools, and the navigation is basic, often missing tight corners behind ladders. While it cleans floors and walls, it doesn’t reach the waterline, leaving a visible ring after prolonged use.

Against the ENHULK PC15, the A1 offers longer runtime and better filtration, but lacks the telescopic pole and handheld versatility of a manual vacuum. It’s best for owners of flat-bottom, low-slope pools who want set-and-forget cleaning with excellent debris capture. While not the most powerful, its dual filtration and fast recharge make it a top-tier value for small to medium pools. For the price, it punches above its weight in cleanliness and convenience.

The ENHULK PC15 is a powerhouse handheld vacuum that brings 18.5 GPM suction and 60-minute cordless runtime to spot cleaning, making it a perfect companion to robotic cleaners. Its 13.4-inch wide vacuum head and side brushes cover large areas quickly, while the 87.5-inch telescopic pole lets you clean deep ends without bending or wading. The upgraded hydrodynamic motor pulverizes acorns, twigs, and compacted sand—debris that robotic vacuums often miss. For last-minute pool prep or post-storm cleanup, this cordless workhorse delivers pro-level power in a consumer package.

In real-world use, the PC15 cleared a leaf-laden shallow end in under 15 minutes, with consistent suction throughout the 60-minute cycle. The quick 1.5-hour recharge meant it was always ready for action, and the smart safety stop prevented motor burnout when lifted out of water. However, the filter bag clogs easily with wet leaves, requiring mid-clean rinsing, and the red flashing error light can be confusing without the manual. It’s not designed for full-pool cleaning, but as a spot-cleaning specialist, it’s unmatched in its price range.

Compared to the Intex model, the ENHULK offers double the suction and longer runtime, but at nearly double the cost. It’s ideal for owners with heavy debris loads or who need deep spot cleaning between robotic cycles. While not a full replacement for a robot, it fills the gaps other cleaners leave behind. With strong suction and rugged build, it’s a must-have tool for proactive pool care.

The Intex Handheld Pool Vacuum is the most accessible entry point into cordless pool cleaning, offering essential suction, a 94-inch pole, and interchangeable brush heads at a rock-bottom price. It’s designed for light-duty maintenance in small above-ground pools or spas, where full robotic cleaners are overkill. The nickel-metal hydride battery provides decent runtime for quick cleanups, and the automatic shutoff when out of water protects the motor—smart for beginners. For new pool owners or those on a tight budget, it’s a no-frills, functional tool that gets the basics done.

In testing on a 12-foot inflatable pool, it handled light sand and floating leaves well, with the nylon brush head effective on vinyl liners. The telescoping shaft extended easily, and the USB charging was convenient. However, suction faded noticeably after 20 minutes, and it struggled with heavier debris like pebbles or mulch. The filter capacity is small, requiring frequent emptying, and the plastic build feels fragile compared to metal-shaft models. It’s not built for durability or heavy use.

Versus the KOKIDO XV320, the Intex model is cheaper but less powerful and less refined. It’s best for occasional users with small pools or spas who need basic surface cleaning. While it won’t replace a robotic vacuum, it’s a solid starter tool for minimal maintenance. For the price, it’s functional but forgettable—a budget essential with clear limitations.

The KOKIDO XV320 is the ultimate spot-cleaning specialist, engineered for precision, portability, and dual-filtration versatility in small pools, spas, and hot tubs. Its 16 GPM suction and 50-minute runtime strike a perfect balance between power and endurance, while the dual filter system—250μ steel and 106μ fine cone—lets you switch between coarse and ultra-fine debris on the fly. The XL triangular pivoting head and flat spot brush ensure no corner is unreachable, and the 72-inch aluminum pole is both sturdy and lightweight. At just 3.5 pounds, it’s the most maneuverable handheld in its class.

In real-world use, it excelled at removing sand from spa jets and silt from pool corners, with the fine filter capturing particles other vacuums miss. The lithium battery maintained suction throughout, and the IPX8 waterproofing ensured worry-free submersion. However, it’s not designed for pools over 20 feet, and the filter clogs quickly with large leaves. It’s meant to complement, not replace, a robotic cleaner—ideal for post-clean touch-ups or targeted maintenance.

Compared to the ENHULK PC15, the KOKIDO is lighter, more precise, and better for fine debris, but with less raw power. It’s perfect for owners who want a nimble, high-precision tool for spas, hot tubs, or small pools. With 32 years of pool supply expertise, KOKIDO delivers professional-grade spot cleaning in a consumer package. For detail-oriented maintenance, it’s the undisputed leader.