Active vs Passive Brushes in Robotic Pool Cleaners for Inground Pools

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Brush type is a key factor in how robotic pool cleaners perform in inground pools. Unlike flat-floor above-ground units, inground models are more advanced — combining higher flow rates with active brushes and smart navigation to tackle larger areas and multiple surfaces.

  • Small inground pools: A mid-tier cleaner with dual active brushes and patterned navigation can manage the floor, walls, and waterline efficiently.

  • Medium inground pools: Require stronger suction, higher flow rates, and advanced navigation to prevent missed areas. Active brushes become essential for handling algae, oils, and stubborn dirt on plaster, pebble, or tile.

  • Large inground pools: Need premium cleaners with top flow rates, extra-long cables or high-capacity batteries, double active brushes, large debris baskets, and intelligent mapping to cover every surface reliably.

Passive brushes are rare at this level, but a few budget inground models may include them. While they can help with light cleaning, active brushes are the standard for achieving a thorough clean in pools with heavy debris or challenging surfaces.

Brush Type Comparison for Inground Robotic Pool Cleaners

Use the dropdown filters to compare cleaners by pool size, budget tier, power source and navigation technology. Each model comes with a product summary that highlights its key capabilities — including suction strength, cycle time and surface compatibility. These summaries make it easy to see what each cleaner does best before clicking through the product link to check the latest pricing.

How to Use the Dropdown Filters

When using the comparison table, refine your search with these dropdowns:

1. Budget Tier

  • Budget (< $200): Starter cleaners with no frills, simple floor or wall cleaning.

  • Mid-Tier ($200–$500): Cordless mobility, auto-parking, and more convenience features.

  • Premium ($500–$1,000): Smart mapping, waterline scrubbing, advanced cleaning efficiency.

  • Pro ($1,000+): Full-featured models with luxury extras and elite navigation systems.

2. Pool Size Class

  • Small (< 30 ft / 600 sq. ft.): Compact pools that need shorter cleaning cycles.

  • Medium (≤ 40 ft / 1,000 sq. ft.): Standard family-size pools where balanced runtime is key.

  • Large (> 40 ft): Bigger pools requiring extended runtime and stronger suction.

3. Power Source

  • Cordless: Battery-powered, no cables, easy handling and storage, but limited by runtime.

  • Corded: Unlimited runtime and consistent power, but requires cable management during use.

4. Navigation Type

  • Random: Moves unpredictably, best for smaller pools on a budget.

  • Patterned Path: Follows set routes for more efficient coverage and less missed spots.

  • Advanced Mapping: Uses sensors or smart systems for elite navigation, ensuring thorough, optimized cleaning.

Brush Type Comparison Table for Inground Robotic Pool Cleaners

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