Choosing the right pool cleaner can save you hours of work and hundreds of dollars a year. Two of the most popular types are robotic pool cleaners and suction-side pool cleaners — but they’re built very differently and suit very different pool needs.
In this detailed breakdown, we’ll compare them across:
How they work – The core difference in design and movement between robotic and suction cleaners.
Cleaning power – What type of debris each handles best and which areas of the pool they clean.
Installation & maintenance – How easy they are to set up, run, and clean after use.
Cost (upfront + long-term) – Budget ranges, energy usage, and maintenance over time.
Best use cases – When each cleaner excels depending on pool type, size, and debris level.
Let’s dive in. 💦
What Is a Robotic Pool Cleaner?
Robotic pool cleaners are fully independent machines that run on low-voltage electricity. They use built-in motors, filters, and smart navigation to clean your pool floor, walls, and even waterline — all without needing to connect to your pool’s pump system.
Key Benefits ✅
Self-contained filtration system
No strain on your pool’s pump or filter
Smart navigation = complete coverage
Handles fine debris, leaves, and algae
Easy to use — plug in, drop in, and press start
Limitations ❌
Higher upfront cost ($300–$1,300)
Needs electricity (corded or battery)
May require periodic filter cleaning
Top Robotic Pool Cleaner Picks on Amazon
Aiper Scuba X1 Pro Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Aiper Scuba X1 Pro delivers high-performance cleaning with smart mapping, intelligent suction adjustment, and waterline scrubbing—ideal for inground pools up to 2,150 sq. ft. Its dual 6,600 GPH motors adapt between Eco and Max modes based on real-time dirt detection, while OmniSense+ navigation uses 26 sensors for precise pathing and obstacle avoidance. FlexiPath technology enables full pool coverage with cross-pattern and Y-shaped wall cleaning, and WaveLine 2.0 keeps constant contact at the waterline. With multi-layer filtration down to 3μm and a sleek drop-on charging dock, the X1 Pro offers advanced features for hands-off, deep-cleaning performance.
🛠️ Features: Cordless, dual 6,600 GPH suction, smart mapping, auto suction adjustment, waterline scrubbing, 3μm dual-layer filtration, app + onboard controls, wireless dock.
Dolphin Nautilus CC Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Dolphin Nautilus CC is a plug-in robotic cleaner designed for above-ground and small inground pools up to 33 feet in length. It features an active scrubbing brush and wall-climbing ability to remove dirt and debris from most surfaces, though it does not clean the waterline. The top-load filter basket makes maintenance easy, while the 2-hour cleaning cycle ensures efficient coverage. With a simple plug-and-play setup, it’s a reliable option for pool owners looking for deep cleaning without complex controls.
🛠️ Features: Corded, wall-climbing, active scrubbing, top-load filter, 2-hour cleaning cycle, plug-and-play setup.
What Is a Suction-Side Pool Cleaner?
Suction-side pool cleaners connect to your pool’s skimmer or suction port, using the suction from your pool pump to power their movement. They vacuum dirt and debris directly into your pool’s filtration system.
Key Benefits ✅
Lower initial cost ($100–$400)
Simple installation — uses existing pump system
Great for small debris like sand or dust
Runs automatically when the pump is on
Limitations ❌
Uses your pool’s filter = more wear & backwashing
No built-in debris bag
May miss spots due to lack of smart navigation
Less effective with large leaves or uneven pool shapes
Top Suction-Side Pool Cleaner Picks on Amazon
Zodiac MX6 Suction-Side Pool Cleaner
The Zodiac MX6 is a compact suction-side cleaner built for inground and small above-ground pools. Its Cyclonic Turbine delivers strong vacuum power while climbing walls, and X-Drive Navigation ensures it thoroughly cleans floors, walls, and waterlines. Designed with energy efficiency in mind, the MX6 works well with 2-speed and variable-speed pumps. Its low-profile form and twist-lock hose make it easy to install and operate, especially in smaller or tighter pools.
🛠️ Features: Suction-side, X-Drive navigation, wall + waterline cleaning, low-flow design, compact size, 32′ twist-lock hose included.
Polaris MAXX Suction-Side Pool Cleaner
The Polaris MAXX is a premium suction-side cleaner designed for all inground pool surfaces, with smart multi-directional navigation and powerful climbing ability. Its active scrubbing brushes loosen stuck-on debris while HALO Technology helps capture everything from fine silt to long leaves without clogging. Built to run efficiently at lower flow rates, it includes a Regulator Valve to extend lifespan and reduce wear on your system. A strong choice for users who want wall-to-floor coverage without switching to a robotic system.
🛠️ Features: Suction-side, wall + floor cleaning, HALO debris tech, smart navigation, scrubbing brushes, energy-efficient hydraulic design.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table 📊
Still unsure whether a robotic model is right for your setup? Read our guide on Cordless vs Corded Robotic Pool Cleaners to compare two of the most popular robotic formats.
| Feature | Robotic Pool Cleaner | Suction-Side Pool Cleaner |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Electric (corded or battery) | Pool pump suction |
| Filtration | Built-in, reusable filters | Uses pool’s main filter |
| Navigation | Smart pathing, sensors | Random or pre-set movement |
| Debris Handling | Leaves, sand, algae | Fine debris only |
| Setup | Plug & play | Requires skimmer line hookup |
| Maintenance | Clean internal filter | Backwash pool filter regularly |
| Ideal Pool Type | All shapes and sizes | Small to mid-size pools |
| Upfront Cost | $$$ ($300–$1300) | $–$$ ($100–$400) |
| Ongoing Costs | Low (filter cleaning) | Medium (filter wear, energy usage) |
Cost Breakdown Over Time 💰
🛈 Please note: The cost ranges and comparisons below are general estimates based on typical product pricing and industry averages. Actual costs may vary depending on your specific model, usage, electricity rates, and pool size.
Robotic Pool Cleaners
Upfront cost: $500–$1300
Power usage: Low (approx. $0.10/hour)
Long-term: Minimal wear on pool system = saves $$$
Suction-Side Pool Cleaners
Upfront cost: $100–$400
Power usage: Medium (uses pump)
Long-term: Adds wear on pool pump & filter
💡 Tip: Robotic cleaners often pay for themselves in 2–3 seasons through energy savings and reduced pool system strain.
Which One Should You Choose?
Let’s break it down by pool type and cleaner type:
Robotic Pool Cleaner — Inground Pools
✅ You want the easiest, most thorough clean
✅ You have a large or uniquely shaped pool with walls and slopes
✅ You want a set-it-and-forget-it experience
✅ You value energy savings and filter independence
Example: Aiper Scuba S1
The Aiper Scuba S1 combines powerful suction, wall-climbing scrubbing, and upgraded WavePath Navigation 2.0 for precise, efficient cleaning of inground pools up to 1,600 sq. ft. Its caterpillar treads ensure stable movement across drains and slopes, while four cleaning modes (Auto, Eco, Floor, Wall) let you customize each session. With up to 150 minutes of runtime and no app setup required, it’s a plug-and-play cordless cleaner built for deep, full-surface pool cleaning.
🛠️ Features: Cordless, WavePath Navigation 2.0, wall + waterline cleaning, 150-min runtime, 4 modes,
Robotic Pool Cleaner — Above Ground Pools
✅ You want something compact and cordless
✅ Your pool is round, oval, or soft-sided
✅ You’d prefer lightweight handling
✅ You want a robot that doesn’t rely on the pool’s pump
Example: Aiper Scuba SE
The Scuba SE is a lightweight, cordless robotic pool cleaner designed for flat above ground pools up to 860 sq. ft. It delivers up to 90 minutes of automated cleaning on a single charge, with a self-parking function for easy retrieval and fast water purging for quick storage. Its energy-efficient hydrodynamic design ensures smooth movement and effective debris pickup without cables or fuss.
🛠️ Features: Cordless, 90-min runtime, auto-parking, quick-drain design, ideal for flat above ground pools.
Suction-Side Cleaner — Inground Pools
✅ You already have a booster or powerful pump
✅ You’re dealing with fine dust or consistent daily debris
✅ You want a low-maintenance, durable system
✅ You don’t need smart features or waterline scrubbing
Example: Zodiac G3 Suction-Side Cleaner
A reliable suction-side cleaner built for inground pools, the Zodiac G3 connects easily to your skimmer or suction line and gets to work in minutes. Its 36-fin disc delivers smooth adhesion across surfaces like tile, vinyl, fiberglass, and gunite — while the wheel deflector improves maneuverability around tight corners and pool features. Compatible with low-flow and variable-speed pumps, it’s a quiet, durable option for basic floor and wall cleaning.
🛠️ Features: Suction-side, inground compatible, 39′ hose, cleans vinyl/tile/gunite, low-speed pump friendly.
Suction-Side Cleaner — Above Ground Pools
✅ You want an affordable daily cleaning tool
✅ Your pool is smaller or framed with flat flooring
✅ You run your pump frequently anyway
✅ You don’t mind cleaning your filter more often
Hayward Wanda the Whale Suction-Side Cleaner
Perfectly suited for above-ground and on-ground pools, Wanda the Whale brings fun and functionality to automatic pool cleaning. Using Hayward’s SmartDrive® steering, it efficiently covers the entire pool floor with quiet, consistent movement. The built-in turbine system ensures balanced water flow, while the bumper ring gently redirects it away from walls and ladders to prevent hang-ups. Quick 10-minute tool-free setup via your pool skimmer makes this a beginner-friendly choice.
🛠️ Features: Suction-side, above-ground compatible, 32′ hose, SmartDrive steering, quiet operation, no booster needed.
Seasonal Considerations 🔄
Spring/Fall – Robotic is better for heavy leaf loads
Summer – Suction-side is OK for routine dust pickup
Winterizing – Remove and store both cleaner types properly
Maintenance Tips
Rinse robotic filters after every use
Backwash your pool filter weekly if using suction-side
Avoid running suction cleaners while swimmers are in the pool
Store robotic units indoors to protect electronics
Final Verdict
Robotic pool cleaners offer a premium, self-contained solution perfect for modern pool owners who value time and efficiency.
Suction-side cleaners are budget-friendly, reliable, and effective for light maintenance.
Both options can work well — it depends on how much automation, power, and long-term savings you want.
Want full-surface automation, including leaf removal? See whether Robotic Leaf Skimmers are worth pairing with your cleaner.
Explore More Robotic Pool Cleaners 🔍
Deciding between a robotic pool cleaner and a robotic surface skimmer? Use our comparison chart to filter based on:
Cleaning zone – floor, walls, or waterline vs floating surface debris
Power type – corded, battery, or solar-assisted
Navigation system – smart pathing vs continuous surface drift
Filter basket capacity – for heavy leaf loads or fine particles
Ideal pool setup – above ground, inground, or leaf-heavy locations
And much more..