Robotic pool cleaners are a game-changer for hands-free pool maintenance — but not all models move the same way. One of the biggest differences between them is how they get around: wheels vs tracks.
This post will explain:
The mechanical differences between wheels and tracks
Where each type performs best
Pros and cons of each
How your pool’s shape, surface, and layout affect the right choice
This is an informational guide only — no product pitches, just the facts
How Robotic Pool Cleaners Move
There are two primary drive systems used in robotic pool cleaners:
Wheeled Drive Systems
Typically have 2 or 4 wheels made of rubber or PVC
Provide solid speed on flat pool surfaces
Tend to be lighter, easier to lift and store
Common in entry-level or floor-only robotic cleaners
Tracked Drive Systems
Use rubber tracks that wrap around gear wheels (like tank treads)
Offer better traction on walls, slopes, and irregular surfaces
Climb more effectively, including deep ends and steps
Found in mid-to-premium models
Performance Differences
Wall-Climbing and Waterline Cleaning
Tracked robots are superior for climbing and sticking to vertical surfaces
Wheeled robots may slip or stay floor-only
Pool Shape and Surface
- Tracks handle rounded or steep pool shapes better
Handling Bumps, Drains, and Obstacles
Tracked cleaners are better at maintaining grip over minor bumps, main drains, and raised seams — especially in liner pools
Wheeled cleaners may bounce or lose traction over these features, leading to missed spots or disrupted cleaning patterns
Wheels may perform fine on rectangular, flat-bottomed pools
Sloped Pool Performance
Tracked cleaners excel at navigating gradual slopes, deep ends, and curved transitions without losing grip
Their low center of gravity and continuous contact keep them stable across uneven inclines
Wheeled cleaners may hesitate or lose traction on sharp declines or slope changes
Best suited to flat or gently sloped pool floors
Debris Handling
Tracks are often paired with stronger suction and deeper scrubbing
Wheeled units may be better for light maintenance and fine debris
Speed and Efficiency
Wheeled cleaners can move quickly across floors
Tracked models clean more thoroughly over time but may be slower
Quick Comparison Table 📊
| Feature | Tracked Cleaners | Wheeled Cleaners |
|---|---|---|
| Wall climbing | ✅ Excellent | ⚠️ Moderate |
| Debris handling | ✅ Heavy + fine debris | ⚠️ Best for light debris |
| Maneuverability on slopes | ✅ Superior | ⚠️ May struggle |
| Speed | ⚠️ Slower | ✅ Faster on flat surfaces |
| Portability | ⚠️ Heavier | ✅ Lighter |
| Typical price | 💲💲–💲💲💲 | 💲–💲💲 |
So, Which One Is Better? 🧠
There’s No One-Size-Fits-All
Each type has its strengths. Think about:
Your pool’s depth and shape
Whether you want wall or just floor cleaning
The kind of debris you deal with
General Guidance
For inground pools with deep ends, slopes, or heavy debris, tracks win
For above ground or flat-bottomed pools with light debris, wheels may be enough
Compare More Models 🔍
Trying to decide between a tracked or wheeled robotic pool cleaner? Use our filters to sort by key features like:
Drive system – see which models are wheeled or tracked
Wall-climbing ability – compare traction types for vertical and sloped surfaces
Pool compatibility – match by above ground or inground setups
Debris handling – identify models better suited for heavy or fine debris