8 Best Pool Blaster Vacuums to Buy in 2025

This is no ordinary handheld vac—the POOL BLASTER Pulse XL 350 redefines what cordless pool cleaning can be. With a 60-minute lithium-ion runtime, an extra-large debris chamber, and a smart water-activated sensor, it delivers uninterrupted cleaning power that’s perfect for full-pool maintenance. The 10.5-inch vacuum head covers more surface area per pass, slashing cleaning time, while the cone-filtration system traps everything from silt to acorns without clogging—ideal for swimmers who hate mid-clean interruptions.

In real-world use, the Pulse XL 350 shines during weekly upkeep, easily gliding over flat surfaces and stairs alike. It handles fine sand, leaves, and even small twigs with minimal passes, and the automatic on/off sensor is a game-changer—no more accidentally burning out the motor when lifting it out of water. That said, it struggles with thick layers of sludge or algae buildup, where a more powerful motor would be better suited. At just over 4 lbs and compatible with any telescopic pole, it’s light enough for extended use without fatigue.

Compared to the Max series, the Pulse XL 350 trades raw suction for longer battery life and smarter design, making it a more refined choice for consistent maintenance rather than heavy-duty recovery. It’s the best overall pick for pool owners who value reliability, ease of use, and American engineering over brute force. While the Max CG offers stronger suction, the Pulse XL 350 delivers smarter, more efficient cleaning with fewer compromises.

When raw power meets commercial-grade performance, the POOL BLASTER Max CG stands head and shoulders above casual cleaners. Equipped with the P30 motor, this beast generates industrial-level suction that pulls in acorns, sand, and pebbles in one go—no second passes needed. The removable 12.75-inch head adapts to broad sweeps or tight corners, and the large debris chamber means fewer stops to empty, making it ideal for larger inground pools with heavy leaf fall.

Field testing reveals it dominates on flat concrete and vinyl surfaces, effortlessly vacuuming through settled silt and organic debris. The 1-hour lithium-ion battery holds strong even under constant load, though aggressive use on deep debris will drain it faster. It does struggle slightly on steep inclines or uneven coves, where its size makes maneuvering tricky. Still, the push-button start and lightweight build keep fatigue low, even during full-pool sessions.

Against the Pulse XL 350, the Max CG leans into sheer cleaning force, sacrificing some smart features for unrelenting power. It’s the go-to for serious pool owners with dense debris loads or commercial applications. While pricier and less refined than entry models, it outperforms in suction and coverage, making it worth the investment for those who need heavy-duty results.

The POOL BLASTER Max strikes a perfect balance between muscle and mobility, making it the sweet spot for mid-range buyers who want serious cleaning without overspending. Powered by the same P30 motor as the Max CG, it delivers strong, consistent suction that tackles leaves, sand, and dirt with confidence. Its 10.5-inch wide head and crevice nozzle let you switch between broad sweeps and precision cleaning in corners or around ladders.

Real-world testing shows it handles weekly debris loads with ease, clearing a standard 15×30 inground pool in under an hour. The 1-hour battery life is reliable, though dense silt may require filter checks mid-clean. It performs best on flat, hard surfaces but loses some efficiency on textured pool floors where debris clings. The push-button operation is simple, and the lightweight body pairs seamlessly with any pole—though neither is included.

Compared to the Pulse XL 350, it lacks the smart water sensor, meaning you must remember to turn it off manually. But for the price, it offers nearly identical power with a more aggressive cleaning profile. It’s ideal for homeowners with moderate leaf fall who want a durable, no-frills workhorse. While not as refined as the Pulse XL, it delivers more suction for less money.

If you’re looking for maximum value with zero setup hassle, the Pulse Cordless Pool Vacuum with Pole Set is a rare all-in-one win. It delivers 45 minutes of solid runtime, an XL debris chamber, and—critically—comes with a full 4-piece pole set, eliminating the need for extra purchases. The 7.5-inch vacuum head with soft bristles is gentle on vinyl liners and perfect for delicate above-ground pools.

In practice, it excels at spot cleaning and hot tub maintenance, picking up sand, silt, and small leaves with ease. The dual-cam quick-release chamber makes emptying fast and mess-free—no dumping debris by hand. However, the smaller head size means more passes for full-pool jobs, and the 4-hour recharge time can be a bottleneck for frequent use. Still, for small to mid-sized pools, it’s impressively efficient.

Against the Centennial, it offers better included accessories and a softer brush head, making it a smarter choice for above-ground or inflatable owners. While it lacks the runtime of premium models, it packs standout convenience into an affordable package. For new pool owners or those needing a secondary vac, it beats competitors by including everything you need.

The Centennial is the go-to for general-purpose cleaning—a no-nonsense, reliable performer that gets the job done without fluff. With a 45-minute lithium-ion battery and a versatile 10.5-inch head, it transitions smoothly from broad sweeps to angled cleaning in corners and steps. The removable head design exposes a precision nozzle for tight spaces, making it surprisingly agile for a full-size cleaner.

In real-world use, it handles daily dust, sand, and scattered leaves with consistent results. The dual-cam quick-release chamber is a standout—emptying is fast and clean, a small but meaningful upgrade over twist-off models. It performs well on both inground and above-ground pools, though it lacks the power to tackle thick organic sludge. The push-button start is intuitive, but like others in this tier, it offers no auto on/off.

Compared to the Pulse with Pole Set, it lacks included accessories but matches in core performance. It’s best for owners who already have a pole and want a dependable, mid-tier cleaner. While not the fastest or most powerful, it strikes a reliable balance for routine maintenance—a true generalist that never overpromises.

The Catfish Ultra (Gen 2) is engineered for the weekly warrior—the pool owner who cleans every weekend and demands consistency. With 15% more GPM suction than its predecessor and a 40% larger debris chamber, it clears more dirt per pass, reducing cleaning time and effort. The removable 10.5-inch head with built-in brushes is a standout for vinyl and soft-sided pools, protecting delicate surfaces while agitating stuck-on debris.

Field tests confirm it’s excellent for shallow areas and pool steps, thanks to a 12.25-inch minimum depth at 45 degrees—lower than most models. It handles sand, dirt, and leaves with ease, and the Xtreme Multilayer Filter Bag enhances deep cleaning. However, it’s not built for heavy leaf accumulation or end-of-season cleanups. The 45-minute battery is sufficient for most jobs, but aggressive use will drain it fast.

Against the Pulse XL 350, it offers less runtime but better shallow cleaning and surface protection. It’s ideal for above-ground pool owners or those with vinyl liners who prioritize gentle yet effective cleaning. While not the most powerful, it delivers targeted performance where it matters most.

When leaves dominate your pool, the Leaf Vac isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Unlike standard vacs, it’s built for high-volume leaf pickup, featuring an extra-large mesh bag that captures leaves, seeds, and twigs without clogging. Powered by 8 AA batteries, it runs up to 3 hours, letting you skim the surface or vacuum the bottom without interruption. And because it doesn’t recirculate water, it won’t disrupt your pool’s pH balance—a hidden benefit most overlook.

In real use, it’s unmatched for fall cleanup or tree-heavy backyards, pulling in floating leaves faster than any filter or net. The lightweight design makes it easy to sweep across the surface, and it works independently of your pump system. However, it’s not for fine silt or sand—the mesh bag lets small particles pass. It also lacks the suction power for embedded debris.

Compared to the Aqua Broom, it trades precision for volume, making it a specialist tool rather than an all-rounder. It’s best for seasonal leaf management, not daily maintenance. While limited in scope, it excels so well in its niche that it’s worth owning alongside a finer vacuum.

The Aqua Broom is punching above its weight—a budget powerhouse built for sand, silt, and fine debris in spas and small pools. With a 3-hour runtime on D-cell batteries, it outlasts even premium lithium models, making it perfect for deep-cleaning hot tubs or inflatable pools. Its patented Retention Valve is the real star—it locks debris in, preventing backflow after suction, a flaw in many low-cost vacs.

In testing, it excels at removing microscopic particles that cloud water, outperforming pricier models in particulate retention. It’s incredibly light—under 2 lbs—so it’s easy to maneuver in tight spaces. However, it struggles with leaves or twigs, and the filter bags are small, requiring frequent changes. The twist-on switch is simple but less convenient than push-button models.

Against the Leaf Vac, it’s the reverse specialist—built for fine dirt, not foliage. It’s ideal for spas, kiddie pools, or spot cleaning where silt settles. While not a full-pool solution, it delivers unmatched value for targeted deep cleaning. For under $50, it does one job exceptionally well.