Learn what matters most—runtime, filters, navigation, pool compatibility and more—before you buy.
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 […]
Not every inground pool needs a high-end robotic cleaner with active brushes. For smaller inground pools with a flat floor, budget-friendly floor-only robots (typically designed for above-ground use) can provide effective support. These cleaners have lower flow rates and limited power, so they are best used in combination with a surface skimmer and a cordless
Flow rate plays a major role in how effective robotic pool cleaners are in inground pools. Unlike smaller above-ground units, inground models combine higher suction capacity (GPH) with active brushes, advanced navigation, and larger filters to keep pace with bigger pool volumes and diverse surfaces. Small inground pools: Mid-range units with moderate flow and dual
Robotic pool cleaners built for above-ground pools can sometimes be used in small, flat-floor inground pools. These are floor-only units with smaller pumps and reduced flow rates, designed for light-duty cleaning. They do not include active brushes and rely primarily on suction — which means algae, oils, and stubborn debris are harder to remove. Because
Robotic pool cleaners built for inground pools are more advanced than floor-only models. These cleaners handle full coverage — scrubbing the floor, climbing walls, and cleaning the waterline where oils, pollen, and grime often collect. Many use dual or triple active brushes to scrub across different pool surfaces (pebble, gunite, tile, vinyl, fiberglass), paired with
Not every inground pool requires a high-end robotic cleaner. If your pool has a flat floor and is smaller in size, you may be able to use budget-friendly robotic cleaners originally designed for above-ground pools. These models are floor-only, with no active brushes, and rely on lighter batteries and suction power. To get the best
Above-ground robotic pool cleaners that clean the floor, walls, and waterline are usually equipped with active brushes. These powered rollers spin independently to scrub surfaces, making them effective on tougher finishes like pebble or gunite, as well as for tackling algae, oils, or sticky debris. Some models still rely on passive brushes or suction alone,
Most floor-only robotic pool cleaners for above-ground pools are basic in design, relying on suction alone or passive brushes that move with water flow. Active brushes, which spin independently, are rarely included in this category. Whether you need active brushes depends on your pool care routine: Active brushes help if: you have high debris levels,
Flow rate is a critical factor in advanced robotic pool cleaners. Above-ground models that clean the floor, walls, and waterline typically require stronger flow rates to maintain suction and keep debris moving through the filter. This makes them better suited for larger pools and for challenging environments — like backyards where leaves, bugs, or flower
Flow rate is a key factor in how effective robotic pool cleaners are in above-ground pools. A stronger flow rate improves suction and debris capture, making a big difference in pools prone to leaves, bugs, flower petals, or windy backyards. These floor-only models are budget-friendly and built for flat above-ground pools, offering simple cleaning performance
