Inground pools require powerful and precise cleaning — and robotic pool cleaners are the best hands-free option. But with so many models available, how do you pick the right one?
This guide explains:
Key features that matter for inground pools
Cleaning needs based on pool size and shape
Recommended models by performance and price
Whether to pair with a robotic surface skimmer
What to Look for in an Inground Robotic Cleaner
✅ Wall & Waterline Cleaning
Inground pools often collect algae and grime on vertical surfaces. Choose a robot that climbs walls and scrubs the waterline.
✅ Smart Navigation
Larger pools need efficient pathing — look for gyroscope navigation or programmed routes to avoid missed spots.
✅ Long Runtime or Corded Power
Cordless is convenient, but large inground pools need 120–180 minutes of runtime or a corded model with uninterrupted power.
✅ Dual or High-Speed Scrubbing Brushes
The best models remove tough dirt and algae with dual-action or high-speed rollers.
Looking for a smaller setup? See our dedicated guide on How to Choose a Robotic Pool Cleaner for Above Ground Pools for models that fit soft-sided and framed pool types.
How Your Pool’s Design Impacts Cleaner Performance
Inground pools vary in shape, size, and surface finish — and the right robotic cleaner should match those variables. Here’s what to consider before you choose:
Wall & Waterline Handling
If your pool has steep walls or an irregular shape, a cleaner with robust wall-climbing and waterline scrubbing is essential. Tracked models generally outperform wheeled ones on verticals and curves.
Obstacle Navigation
Main drains, lights, or raised steps can cause issues for some cleaners. Tracked models maintain traction across obstacles, while wheeled models may lose grip or shift course unexpectedly.
Slope and Deep End Control
For pools with a deep end or slope transitions, traction matters. Tracked robots handle inclines and transitions smoothly, while wheeled models are best on uniformly shallow or flat-bottomed pools.
Debris Volume and Type
If your pool collects sand, fine silt, or heavy leaf loads, look for models with dual brushes and large filter baskets. Smart pathing also improves efficiency in larger pools.
Pool Size & Layout
Pools over 30 ft typically need a model with 120+ minute runtime or corded power. Irregular or freeform pools benefit from gyroscopic navigation to reduce missed spots.
Best Robotic Cleaners for Inground Pools
Cord-Free Convenience (Cordless Models)
🔋 Aiper Scuba S1 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Aiper Scuba S1 offers wall-to-wall cleaning for inground pools up to 1,600 sq. ft., with 150 minutes of cordless runtime per charge. Its strong suction and dynamic scrubbers handle dirt on the floor, walls, and waterline, while a large filter basket captures both fine and coarse debris. Smart navigation ensures efficient coverage without overlap, and caterpillar treads provide traction over steps, drains, and uneven surfaces. With four cleaning modes—including Auto, Eco, Floor-only, and Wall-only—you can tailor each session to your pool’s needs without app setup.
🛠️ Features: Cordless, 150-min runtime, smart pathing, wall + waterline cleaning, large filter basket, caterpillar treads, 4 cleaning modes.
🔋 Beatbot AquaSense 2 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Beatbot AquaSense 2 delivers advanced cleaning for above-ground and inground pools up to 3,230 sq. ft., with full floor, wall, and waterline coverage. Its double-pass waterline scrubbing provides a thorough finish, while smart navigation and four side guide wheels ensure complete edge-to-edge cleaning across all pool surfaces. A 10,000mAh battery powers up to 4 hours of cordless operation, and the sleek wireless dock recharges the unit in just 4 hours. Auto-surfacing with SmartDrain makes retrieval easy, either automatically at cycle end or on command via the app.
🛠️ Features: Cordless, 4-hour runtime, double-pass waterline scrubbing, auto surface parking, wireless dock, multi-surface compatible.
Powerful Plug-In Options (Corded Models)
🔌 Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wi-Fi Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wi-Fi is a plug-in robotic cleaner designed for inground pools up to 40 feet. It climbs walls effectively and scrubs away dirt and algae on most pool surfaces, using a top-load filter basket for easy debris removal. With built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, you can schedule cleanings and monitor the cleaner remotely from your smartphone. Its 2-hour cleaning cycle offers consistent results with minimal setup—just plug it in, drop it in, and let it go to work.
🛠️ Features: Corded, Wi-Fi control, wall-climbing, top-load filter, 2-hour cleaning cycle, plug-and-play setup.
🔌 Polaris 9550 Sport Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Polaris 9550 Sport is a powerful 4WD robotic cleaner built for inground pools up to 60 feet. It offers five cleaning modes and climbs walls with ease, using Vortex Vacuum technology to deliver strong suction across the pool floor and walls. A motion-sensing handheld remote and 70 ft swivel cable give you full control, while the Easy Lift System and debris canister indicator simplify removal and maintenance. The extra-large 5L top-load basket holds more debris between cleanings, and a premium caddy is included for convenient storage.
🛠️ Features: Corded, 4WD, 5 modes, wall-climbing, 70 ft swivel cable, remote control, 5L debris basket, lift assist, storage caddy.
Add a Robotic Leaf Skimmer?
Even the best floor cleaners can’t pick up floating debris like leaves or insects. That’s where a robotic leaf skimmer helps.
Pairing one with your inground pool robot:
Keeps the surface clear all day
Reduces clogs in the main cleaner’s filter
Helps pools near trees or with lots of pollen
If you’re considering a surface skimmer too, check out our full breakdown: Robotic Leaf Skimmers: What They Do and Do You Really Need One?
Robotic Skimmers for Surface Debris Control
🌞 Betta SE Plus Solar Robotic Pool Skimmer
The Betta SE Plus uses twin Salt-Chlorine-Tolerant motors and an upgraded Aqua Dynamics hull to skim leaves, pollen, and pet hair for 30 hours or more per full charge. Dual charging options—fast solar recharge while it works and an AC-adapter backup—keep the unit running even through long cloudy spells. A shallow-water safeguard and included anti-stuck foam noodle help the skimmer avoid steps, skimmer ports, and other traps, while ultrasonic obstacle detection steers it clear of walls and ladders. Debris collects in a large top-handle 200 µm basket that empties without lifting the robot from the pool, and a cordless remote lets you switch modes on demand. UV-resistant materials and a one-year warranty add durability and peace of mind for season-long surface cleaning.
🛠️ Features: Solar + AC charging, 30 h runtime, SCT motors, 200 µm basket, shallow-water safeguard, ultrasonic obstacle detection, remote control.
📌 Note: Requires at least 3.5 in (9 cm) water depth; not suitable for infinity pools.
📱 Aiper Surfer S2 Robotic Solar Pool Skimmer
The Aiper Surfer S2 is a smart surface skimmer that runs on solar power and includes a backup charging option via DC adapter for cloudy days. Its 150μm mesh tray captures fine debris like leaves, pollen, and insects, while an adjustable compartment holds chlorine tablets to help maintain water clarity. The companion app allows you to schedule cleanings, receive alerts, and manually steer the unit when needed. Designed with obstacle avoidance, anti-stuck support, and edge-cleaning behavior, the Surfer S2 provides near-continuous surface coverage for most pool types. UV-resistant materials and a 24-month warranty round out this low-maintenance solution for reducing manual skimming.
🛠️ Features: Solar + DC charging, app control, 150μm mesh, chlorine dispenser, obstacle avoidance, edge cleaning, weather-resistant.
📌 Note: Not suitable for infinity pools.
Final Recommendation
If your inground pool collects dirt, algae, and leaves, a robotic cleaner with wall-climbing ability and smart pathing is a great investment. Corded models are ideal for larger pools with long cleaning cycles, while cordless options offer flexibility and quicker setup. For pools surrounded by trees or in windy climates, adding a robotic surface skimmer helps maintain a cleaner surface between deep cleans.
Learn whether pairing a Robotic Cleaner and Robotic Leaf Skimmer makes pool care easier year-round.
Compare Inground Robotic Pool Cleaner Models 🔍
Budget Robotic Cleaners for Flat, Small Inground Pools
These robotic pool cleaners are simple, floor-only models designed mainly for above-ground pools — but they can also work in flat, small inground pools. Since they don’t include active brushes and have smaller batteries, they’re best paired with a leaf skimmer and a handheld pool vacuum to manage debris and extend cleaning performance.
Advanced Inground Robotic Pool Cleaners for Floor, Wall & Waterline
These robotic pool cleaners are designed specifically for inground pools of all sizes — small, medium, and large. They don’t just handle the floor; they climb walls and scrub the waterline, tackling stubborn algae and oils. With active brushes for pebble, gunite, vinyl, or fiberglass surfaces, and advanced navigation systems for efficient coverage, they deliver thorough cleaning from top to bottom.
Want to Compare More Inground Robotic Pool Cleaner Models 🔍
Need the right robotic pool cleaner for your inground pool? Use our filters to narrow your options based on:
Smart navigation – gyroscopic, mapping, or random
Wall and waterline cleaning – yes/no capability
Corded vs cordless – power flexibility vs long cycles
Filter capacity – for large debris or sand/silt
Skimmer compatibility – add a surface cleaner for leaf-heavy yards