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You are here: Home / Best Robotic Pool Cleaner / Best Robotic Pool Cleaner | Reviews

Best Robotic Pool Cleaner | Reviews

Last Updated on February 11, 2018 By Chainsaw Journal

best-robotic-pool-cleaner-feature

Which is the best robotic pool cleaner for you? These are all excellent.

Looking for the best robotic pool cleaner? Well, this is the article for you. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best robotic pool cleaners available today. We’re confident that one of these impressive cleaners will be right for you and your pool (and your bank account).

We know these are expensive machines so it’s important to find out all of the facts first and compare the various robotic pool cleaners before making your final decision. We wrote this article to help you make a better buying decision.

Table of Contents view
Best Robotic Pool Cleaner?
How do Robotic Pool Cleaners Work?
Maytronics Dolphin 99996323 Nautilus
Overview | Dolphin Nautilus
Video | Maytronics Dolphin Features
Maytronics Dolphin 99996403-PC Nautilus Plus
Overview | Dolphin Nautilus Plus
Dolphin 99996356 Triton | Best Robotic Pool Cleaner
Overview | Dolphin 99996356 Triton
Dolphin Triton Plus | 2 Cleaning Cycles
Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830
Overview | Prowler 830
Video | Watch the Prowler 820 and the 830 in action:
Kreepy Krauly Prowler 820 | Pentair 360031
Polaris 9450 | Best Robotic Pool Cleaner
Overview | Polaris 9450
Polaris 9550 | Best Robotic Pool Cleaner
Video | See it in Action
Hayward Tigershark Qc Rc9990gr | Best Robotic Pool Cleaner
Overview | TigerShark QC RC9990GR
Hayward AquaNaut 400 | PHS41CST | 4-Wheel Drive
Learn More | Video Review
Hayward AquaNaut 200 | PHS21CST | 2-Wheel Drive
Video | Watch the AquaNaut 200 in Action
Poolvergnuegen, The PoolCleaner
What’s the Best Robotic Pool Cleaner?

Best Robotic Pool Cleaner?

Also, the term “best” is relative. The best robotic pool cleaner for you depends on many factors, such as the type of pool you own, the size of pool you want to clean and your budget. Don’t spend more than you can afford.

Wonderful Style & Engineering

polaris-9350-945-9550-robotic-pool-cleaners-feature

My favorite styling for pool cleaners: Polaris 9550 Sport & Polaris 9450 Sport.

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Before we get into all of the details for each specific model, I think it’s important to understand how robotic pool cleaners actually work. There are a variety of automatic pool cleaners on the market but a robotic pool cleaner is unique in its functioning.

The robotic pool cleaners we cover in this article are:

  1. Maytronics Dolphin 99996323 Nautilus
  2. Maytronics Dolphin 99996403-PC Nautilus Plus
  3. Dolphin 99996356 Triton | Triton Plus
  4. Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830 | Prowler 820
  5. Polaris 9450 | Polaris 9550
  6. Hayward Tigershark Qc Rc9990gr
  7. Hayward AquaNaut 400 | AquaNaut 200

Before Robotic Pool Cleaners we had nature do the cleaning for us…

Swimming has long been considered a mode of relaxation. People slowly graduated from swimming in ponds and lakes to swimming in their backyard. How? In a pool, of course! There have been many upsides to having pool in one’s backyard. It is convenient, it is fun and you have undisputed access to it. Pools are very different from lakes, ponds and beaches in one very important way. Nature has a way of keeping them clean. They may not remain as clean as your pool but they are clean nonetheless.

4-Wheel Drive is becoming more common.

Hayward AquaNaut 400 and 200

Hayward AquaNaut 400 and AquaNaut 200 — released in 2015.

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A pool which is not cared for and cleaned for more that two to three weeks soon starts to turn green. Now this really posed a problem. To combat this problem people began to find methods of cleaning their pools on a regular basis. That is how we started with the manual cleaning phase. The need for more efficient methods of cleaning a pool lead to the development of the ‘Automated pool cleaners’.

The first automated pool cleaner was given to us by John Davidson in 1912. This revolutionized the way swimming pools were cleaned. The automated pool cleaners paved the way for the modern robotic pool cleaners. The first robotic pool cleaner came into existence in 1937. A man named Robert Myers was responsible for its invention. Today’s robotic pool cleaners have progressed in ways that you will find hard to imagine. Let us take a brief look at how the robotic pool cleaners work.

How do Robotic Pool Cleaners Work?

Some people find it hard to understand how these devices work. This is simply because people assume that any device with the prefix ‘Robot’ or ‘Robotic’ is an extremely complex device. Though in some aspects this maybe true, in other aspects it is quite the opposite. The key to understanding how Robotic pool cleaners work is in understanding the basic mechanism that these devices function on.

Video | See how different automatic pool cleaners work

The first thing that you need to understand is that robotic pool cleaners function completely independently from your pool’s filtration system. It does not even have to use your pool’s pump. What does that mean? It means that these cleaners do not put undue stress on your filtration system or your pump. This in turn means that your maintenance charges for these two systems reduces considerably.

So how does the Robotic pool cleaner work? A robotic pool cleaner has two motors. One motor is used to power its own filtration system. It pumps water into its own self contained filtration bag. The water that passes through this bag is filtered and then pumped back into the pool. This is how the device ensures that the water is crystal clean. In addition to this, you will realize that this procedures ensures that your pool water is filtered twice. Once by your pool’s filtration system and once by the robotic pool cleaner.

The second motor is used to power tractor like wheels. These wheels are often connected to brushes or blades which help in cleaning the pool floor. With that done, the suction picks up all the grime that the brushes sweep up. This then passes through the robotic filtration system.

These devices can be pre-programmed to clean your pool as per your instructions. They even come with a sensor that enables them to move about the pool without getting stuck.

Now that we know how the robotic pool cleaners function, let us glance at some of the latest devices that are out in the market.


Maytronics Dolphin 99996323 Nautilus

Dolphin-99996323-Dolphin-Nautilus-Robotic-Pool-Cleaner---angles

The many faces of the Dolphin Nautilus.

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Recommended for in-ground residential pools up to 50 feet in length.

Features:

  • Scrubs, vacuums and filters your entire pool in 3 hours.
  • Easy-to-clean cartridge filter. Includes spring clean up filter.
  • Swivel cable will greatly reduce tangling.
  • Cheap to operate: costs less than 15 cents to clean the pool.
  • Just plug it in and it’s ready to clean.
  • Automatically programs itself for optimal cleaning.

Overview | Dolphin Nautilus

The Dolphin group has made a number of very popular robotic pool cleaners. The Dolphin 99996323 Nautilus is a very good example of one. Why? Simply because this device has been on Amazon’s top seller list for quite a while now. There are many reasons why this devices has gained popularity.

The Dolphin 99996323 Nautilus is a lightweight device. This means that you can easily carry it from one location to the next. It makes it easy to store and to use.

This device has been designed to be used in pools that are not longer than 50 feet. Why is this important? It is important because if you install this device in a larger pool, it will not be able to clean your pool to perfection.

Another important point that you should make a note off, is the fact that the 99996323 Nautilus is designed for ground pools.

Dolphin Nautilus vs Dolphin Nautilus Plus (see next review)

The 99996323 Dolphin Nautilus has an added feature that many buyers find very attractive. It can maneuver into coves and corners. This device can even climb walls. This means that there is not a single place which the 99996323 will keep unclean.

Dolphin has advertised this device as a ‘plug and go’ model. What does this mean? It means that you set the device up so that it starts cleaning your pool. After that, you can go and continue with your other chores. The device will continue to operate till the pool is clean.

Video | Maytronics Dolphin Features

The device takes three hours to clean a 50 foot long pool. You can time your schedule around it and retrieve the device after three hours.

You can view the manual for the Dolphin Nautilus on the Maytronics website, or you can view or download the Nautilus Manual and Quick Start Guide below.

Documents:

  • View or download the MANUAL for the Dolphin Nautilus.
  • View or download the Quick Start Guide

Specs (Dolphin Nautilus)

  • Cycle time: 3 hours
  • Cable length: 60 ft.
  • Filter: Fine porosity
  • Suction rate: 4,233 gal (USA) per hour
  • Unit weight: 18.75 lbs.

Maytronics Dolphin 99996403-PC Nautilus Plus

Dolphin-Nautilus-Plus-Robotic-Pool-Cleaner-angles

Will clean your pool in under 2.5 hours.

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Dolphin Features:

  • Scrubs, vacuums and filters all pool surfaces in just 2.5 hours.
  • Easy-to-clean cartridge filter with spring clean up filter included!
  • Patented swivel cable helps prevent tangling.
  • Incredibly efficient – costs less than 15 cents to clean the pool.
  • Plug-n-play! No pre-installation needed, no connections to pool system.
  • Self-programmed for optimal pool scanning.

View or download the MANUAL for the Dolphin Nautilus Plus.

Overview | Dolphin Nautilus Plus

The Dolphin 99996403 Nautilus plus is commonly referred to as the ‘Nautilus Plus’. This device shares a number of features with the 99996323 Nautilus. Let’s take a look at what this device has to offer.

The Nautilus plus has been designed to clean in-ground pools that are 50 feet long.

Like its counterpart, the Nautilus plus has the ability to climb walls and clean corners and coves. This means that it follows a very good cleaning module.

The Nautilus Plus comes with a plug and play system. This means that this model does not require constant supervision like some other models.

This device has an interesting feature. You do not need to program it. Place it in the water and it senses its surroundings. This means that the device is able to calibrate what it needs to do to keep your pool spotless.

The filtration system in the Nautilus plus is different. It has two types of filtration cartridges. One cartridge filters out the coarser (larger) particles, while the second cartridge filters out the smaller (finer) particles. What does mean for your pools cleanliness? It means that the fine particles that could escape from a single filter are captured by the second cartridge. This ensures that the quality of the pool water is maintained.

The cartridges are placed at the top of the device. This makes them easily accessible and easy to clean.

Another important factor that you should make note off is that the Nautilus plus comes with the Easy fix modular technology. It sounds complicated but it simply means that the parts of the Nautilus Plus are easily available in the market. It also means that the maintenance costs of this device are lower.

Dolphin-Nautilus-Plus-Robotic-Pool-Cleaner

The Dolphin Nautilus & the Plus model are extremely popular.

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Nautilus PLUS Specifications:

Cycle time: 2.5 hours
Cable length: 60 ft.
Filter: Fine porosity
Suction rate: 4,233 gal (USA) per hour
Unit weight: 18.75 lbs.


Dolphin 99996356 Triton | Best Robotic Pool Cleaner

Dolphin Triton robotic pool cleaner review.

Swivel cable won’t get tangled.

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Dolphin Features:

  • Scrubs, vacuums and filters all pool surfaces in just 3 hours.
  • Convenient cartridge filter system that’s easy to clean and includes a spring clean-up option!
  • Patented swivel cable helps prevent tangling
  • Includes caddy for portability and storage
  • Incredibly efficient – costs less than 15 cents to clean the pool.
  • Plug-n-play! No pre-installation needed, no connections to pool system.
  • Self-programmed for optimal pool scanning.
  • 24 month warranty – spare parts and labor.

Overview | Dolphin 99996356 Triton 

Moving on to the third Dolphin device that we are going to talk about, you will find that the Dolphin 99996356 Triton is just as popular as the previous two devices. The Triton has a few features which are similar to the two other devices but it also has a number of advancements which make it a very good buy. This device has been listed as one of Dolphin’s exclusive robotic pool cleaners.

One of the biggest differences that you will find between the Nautilus and the Triton is the portability. The Triton comes with a caddy. This means that it is easy to transport and store the Triton as compared to the different Nautilus devices.

Like the Nautilus devices that we have discussed, the Triton is also built to clean pools that reach up to 50 feet in length.

Dolphin Triton. Robotic pool cleaner.

I like the fact that Maytronics gives you a caddy for moving your pool cleaner.

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Like the Nautilus Plus, the Triton also has the scanning technology. The scanning extends to the floor, the coves, corners and even the walls.

The swivel cable of the Triton ensures that the device does not get tangled in its own cable.

The Triton comes with a remote. This is another big difference when compared to the Nautilus devices. This means that you can modify the pool cleaning process according to your desires.

The Triton also comes with the plug and play facility.

Specifications (Triton):

  • Cycle time: 3 hours
  • Cable length: 60 ft.
  • Filter: Fine porosity
  • Suction rate: 4,233 gal (USA) per hour
  • Unit weight: 18.75 lbs.

Dolphin Triton Plus | 2 Cleaning Cycles

Has a remote control and 2 cleaning cycles

Dolphin-Triton-Plus-Automatic-Pool-Cleaner-

It’s expensive but it has a few more features that you may or may not need.

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Learn more about the Triton and the Triton Plus in our in-depth review article.

Features (Triton Plus):

  • Cycle time: 1 or 2.5 hours, depending on what you choose.
  • Cable Length : 60 feet.
  • Weight: 22 lbs.
  • Scrubs, vacuums and filters all pool surfaces.
  • For swimming pools up to 50 feet in length.
  • Capable of cleaning a variety of pool surfaces: vinyl, cement, granite, tile, pebble, fiberglass and more.
  • Top-access cartridge filter system. Easy to clean.
  • Reduced tangling with its unique swivel cable.
  • Includes caddy for portability and storage
  • Weekly timer cycles including clean every 24 hours, 48 hours, or 72 hours for 3 consecutive cycles.
  • Full cartridge indicator lets you know when the filter is full.
  • No pre-installation needed, no connections to pool system. Plug it in and watch it go!
  • Smart programming.
  • Includes remote control for guided steering and cycle selection.
  • Quick water release allows water to exit the cleaner in less than 6 seconds.
  • Modular technology makes it quick and easy for you to repair.
  • 24 month warranty : spare parts and labor.

Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830

Kreepy-Krauly-Prowler-830--Pentair-360032

Fantastic value. Reliable, efficient, well-made and packed with quality features.

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✓Completely independent of your pool circulation system.

Features:

  • Remote control functions allow you to override automatic cleaning modes to perform quick spot clean-ups
  • Built-in weekly timer allows for scheduled cleanings
  • Auto-reverse feature helps prevent hang-ups in corners and near steps for uninterrupted performance
  • Costs less than 20 cents per day to operate
  • Includes convenient caddy for easy handling and storage
  • Vacuums all types of debris and helps remove algae
  • Plug-in convenience requires no installation, booster pump or hoses
  • Full cartridge indicator lets you know when cleaner needs attending
  • Weight: 60 lbs.
  • Size: 23.5″ x 19″ x 19″
  • Weekly timer with full bag indicator (830 model only)
  • Cycle selector remote control (830 model only)

Overview | Prowler 830

Moving onto another company, the Pentair has one device which has been popular for quite a long while. The Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830 has one basic function — it cleans your pool automatically without you needing to lift a finger. Let’s glance at what Pentair has to offer with this wonderful robotic pool cleaner.

Video | Watch the Prowler 820 and the 830 in action:

The Pentair 360032 is based on automation. That is the first and foremost function of this cleaner. To achieve this Pentair has developed an intelligent brain that specializes in determining the most efficient route to take for optimum cleaning.

The device also comes equipped with a remote. The remote isn’t really necessary as the device calibrates based on its surroundings. It however can be used to control the robotic cleaner without having to get your feet wet. Let’s face it, we all love to control things with a remote control. It all started when we were kids and it’s one of those things that never seems to go away. Humans like to control gadgets.

Pentair 360032 Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830

Control the Prowler 830 anytime you want.

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In this case, the cleaner enables you use two automatic cleaning options; one for the pool bottom and another for both the bottom and sides of your pool. Another practical benefit of using the wireless remote is that you can also temporarily override its pre-programmed route to perform fast spot clean-ups, if it misses a spot.

Like all robotic pool cleaners, the Pentair 360032 functions independently and does not depend on the pool circulation system.

Pentair Kreepy Krauly Prowler 820 and 830 caddy.

Both models come with a carrying caddy. It will make transporting it effortless.

The Pentair Prowler 820 does not have a remote (reviewed next).

It is designed to clean floors, walls and even steps. This means that all the corners and tile lines will be scrubbed and will remain free from debris.

You can even program the device for a whole week. That means that you can place the Pentair 360032 in your pool and it will continue to function based on your instructions. That way you do not have to worry about cleaning your pool for a whole week.

The device comes with an LED indicator which tells you when the filter bag is full. This means that you don’t have to keep checking to see if it needs to be cleaned.

Documents:

  • View or download the MANUAL for the Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830.
  • View or download the BROCHURE for the Kreepy Krauly Prowler 830.

Kreepy Krauly Prowler 820 | Pentair 360031

Kreepy-Krauly-Prowler-820--Pentair-360031

Recommended for pool sizes up to 20′ x 50-feet."Buy from Amazon" button

If you want to save a little money the Kreepy Krauly Prowler 820 is an excellent robotic pool cleaner to consider. Although this model doesn’t have the remote control (the 830 does), but it’s not a big deal. Overall, this is a great value and deserves your serious consideration as one of the best robotic pool cleaners for your hard-earned money.

Features:

  • Auto-reverse helps the Prowler 820 from getting stuck.
  • Inexpensive to operate: Less than 20 cents per day.
  • Includes caddy for effortless transportation and storage.
  • Vacuums a variety of debris and helps removes algae.
  • Plug-and-play. Requires NO installation, booster pump or hoses.
  • Full cartridge indicator will let you know when the cleaner needs your attention.
  • Weight: 60 lbs.
  • Size: 23.5″ x 19″ x 19″

The Kreepy Krauly 820 Prowler DOES NOT include:

  • Weekly timer with full bag indicator (830 model only)
  • Cycle selector remote control (830 model only)

Documents:

  • View or download the MANUAL for the Kreepy Krauly Prowler 820.
  • View or download the BROCHURE for the Kreepy Krauly Prowler 820.

Specs (Prowler 820):

  • Recommended pool size : Up to 20 x 50 feet (6.1 x 15.2 meters)
  • Volume of water filtered : 4,233 gal./hr. (16m 3/hr.)
  • Cable length : 60 feet (18.3 meters)
  • Filter porosity : Ultra-fine porosity
  • Electrical specification : IP 54, input 115 VAC/60 Hz
  • Voltage in water : Less than 24V DC

Learn more about the Prowler on the Pentair site. They have an amazing array of pool products. Pentair does more than just create some of the best robotic pool cleaners on the planet, other products include:  pool pumps, filters, heaters, cleaners, lights, automation systems and more.

Also, Pentair has an excellent online community where you can talk with other pool owners, share your opinions or learn from other pool owners. Visit Pool FYI to learn more.

Check the Pentair site to see if they have a Rebate for their robotic pool cleaners. Rebate offers are constantly changing so keep checking. Most major pool companies have a rebate page. Usually, you have to send them your purchasing information, like a copy of the receipt and the serial number, etc. Read the details for each manufacturer. They all have their own requirements.


Polaris 9450 | Best Robotic Pool Cleaner

polaris-9450-robotic-pool-cleaner

This pool cleaner is beautifully designed.

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Let me start by saying that out of all the designs, this is my favorite. I have a background in design so I can’t help but appreciate good design. The Polaris 9450 and the 9550 are on par for being the best robotic pool cleaner available. The aesthetics alone should win awards but luckily the engineering behind these models is also impressive.

Features:

  • Easy Lift System – With the touch of a button the 9450 surfaces to a desired location and waits for you to grab it, then automatically evacuates water for effortless removal from the pool.
  • Vortex Vacuum Technology — 25% more vacuum power and 4x more debris capacity than other cleaners.
  • Easy Clean Filter Canister — debris can easily be emptied with a simple shake and spray convenience.
  • 7-day programmable timer. You’re in control. Set it once, then let it do the work — indefinitely.
  • ActivMotion Sensor — automatically controls robot’s position at all times, allowing complete cleaning coverage without any hang-ups.
  • 4-Wheel Drive.
  • Top access filter canister.  4x the capacity of other robotic cleaners.

Overview | Polaris 9450

The Polaris brand has brought out a number of really nice robotic pool cleaners. Polaris has advertised that their products are lightweight and easy to use. The public has certainly agreed with them. That is just one of the reasons why their models are gaining in popularity.

The Polaris 9450 is extremely energy efficient. It saves up to 90 percent of the operating costs by reducing the amount of energy consumed.

polaris-9450-robotic-pool-cleaner-canister-hand

Designed for convenience and to save you time.

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It uses a different method of cleaning corners and stairs as compared to the Dolphin and Pentair devices. A stream of water is directed at the corner. This blows out the debris. These debris are then sucked up by a vacuum.

The suction device is over-sized and allows it to suck in all kinds of debris with ease.

Like the Dolphin and the Pentair, the Polaris 9450 is designed to climb walls and steps. This ensures that every nook and cranny of the pool is kept clean. The four wheel drive that this device uses aids it in the cleaning of walls and steps.

polaris-9450-robotic-pool-cleaner-control-panel

Program it once then let it do the work for you.

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The Polaris 9450 is designed to clean pools up to 50 feet in length. Unlike the other devices, the Polaris 9450 takes only an hour and a half to finish cleaning the entire pool. This makes extremely fast and efficient.

The Polaris 9450 uses a pleated brush to clean the tile line. This ensures that dirt does not accumulate.

The device comes with a transport caddy which makes it extremely portable. This comes in very handy when you want to store the device. The easy lift technology that it incorporates also adds to the ease at which this device can be handled. The easy lift system means that the Polaris 9450 rises to the surface with a touch of a button. This means that you don’t have to get wet to remove it.

It comes with an easy clean filter. All you have to do is remove the filter and shake it, after inverting it. The debris gets emptied out easily.

View or download documents for the Polaris 9450:

  • Manual
  • Brochure
  • Quick-Start Guide

For additional information on the Polaris 9450 and the 9550 I recommend reading our comprehensive review on these models. These can (and should) be regarded as two of the best robotic pool cleaners money can buy. They look fantastic and clean swimming pools exceptionally well.

And now, let’s talk about the big brother, the more advanced 9550. The better of the two, but also more expensive. I know, these things aren’t cheap. I guess the best way to look at it is consider all of the time you’ll be saving by owning a robotic pool cleaner. My time is priceless, hopefully you feel the same way. At the end of your life, you’ll wish you had all of those hours back that you wasted manually cleaning your pool.

Polaris 9450 vs 9550 (and, yes, the inferior 9350)

Polaris-9450-9550-9350-Specs_small

The Polaris 9550 is next on our list, and there are a few differences that elevate it beyond the 9450 (like the remote) but it’s up to you to determine what features you actually need. There’s also a 2-wheel drive model (Polaris 9350) but we don’t recommend that model. It pales in comparison to the 4-wheel drive models.


Polaris 9550 | Best Robotic Pool Cleaner

polaris-9550-robotic-pool-cleaner-underneath

This baby has a remote control.

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The Polaris 9550 has a number of features that the 9450 has. It however, has a few modifications which make this robotic pool cleaner extremely interesting.

Like the Polaris 9450, the Polaris 9550 has a four wheeled drive that allows it to climb walls and steps. This ensures that the device is able to access all corners of the pool.

It has a solid blade scrubbing brush which it uses to scrub the tile line.

Both the 9450 and the 9550 have a full caddy

polaris-9550-robotic-pool-cleaner-caddy

Everything about this pool cleaner screams “quality.” It’s the perfect package.

The device comes with a seven day programmable function. What does this mean? It means that you can program the device according to your needs and set a different program for each of the seven days. The Polaris 9550 will follow the instructions you set.

The Polaris 9550 has one distinct feature that sets it apart from the Polaris 9450. It has a new and intuitive remote. What makes the remote so different? The remote is able to sense the direction in which you move your hand. All you have to do is point to the desired location and the Polaris 9550 will do the rest!

Video | See it in Action

This is also the only Polaris model that comes with a dirty canister warning. The warning indicates that it is time to clean the canister.

Like the Polaris 9450, the Polaris 9550 also comes with an easy lift mechanism.

View or download documents for the Polaris 9550:

Note: These guides are the same as the Polaris 9450, just in case you downloaded them already.

  • Manual
  • Brochure
  • Quick-Start Guide

Hayward Tigershark Qc Rc9990gr | Best Robotic Pool Cleaner

Modern redesign of the Hayward TigerShark Plus. Looks Great!

Modern new redesign of the Hayward TigerShark Plus. Looks Great.

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Features:

  • Designed for pools up to 20 by 40-feet, Cord Length 55-feet
  • On-board pump vacuums dirt and debris from the bottom, walls, inclines and steps of your pool.
  • Easy to clean filter cartridge system. Remove and rinse with a garden hose.
  • I calculates the size of your pool and programs itself into the most time and energy-efficient cleaning pattern.

Overview | TigerShark QC RC9990GR

This is the last device on the list of Robotic pool cleaners that we are going to discuss today. Hayward’s most talked about product is the TigerShark QC RC9990GR. This is because of the way the device is calibrated to calculate the pools dimensions and cleaning requirements.

One of the most interesting features that the TigerShark offers is its ability to clean debris that measure up to 5 micron in size. What does this imply? It implies that the pool water will be filtered of particles that are so small, that you cannot see them with the naked eye!

Video | Watch the New TigerShark Model in Action

Another interesting feature is that the TigerShark comes with two different kinds of modes. The first mode is the automatic mode. In this mode the TigerShark will scan the pool and determine the most energy efficient way of cleaning it. The other mode is the quick clean mode. In this mode, the device will calibrate the quickest way of cleaning the pool. This all based on the data it collects while it scans the pool for its size and shape.

The TigerShark doesn’t just take length into consideration when it cleans pools. It is designed to clean pools that measure 20 feet x 40 feet.

The device has a three hour cleaning cycle. Once this cycle is finished, the device automatically shuts off. This is a great advantage for a forgetful mind. You don’t have to worry about forgetting to switch the TigerShark off.

Old Design | One of the Most Popular Robotic Pool Cleaners

Hayward TigerShark QC RC9990GR robotic pool cleaner

Close-up view of the scrubbing brush.

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The TigerShark Qc Rc9990gr uses filtration cartridges instead of filtration bags. This means that they are easy to clean. It also means that you don’t have to keep buying new filtration bags. This by default, reduces the operational cost of the device.

Video | Hayward TigerShark Unboxing

Documents for the Hayward TigerShark:

  • View or download the MANUAL
  • View or download the PARTS LIST
  • View or download the BROCHURE

Hayward RC99385 Premium Caddy is sold separately. I wish it came with the cleaner but unfortunately it does not. Either way, it’s a useful accessory. How will you move around the pool cleaner without it? Well, I guess you’ll have to pick it up and carry it. I recommend the purchase because it will enable you to easily move the TigerShark around and keep everything organized.

Hayward RC99385 Premium Caddy Cart Replacement.

Caddy sold separately.

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Read our In-depth TigerShark Review article if you want to learn more about what makes this one of the best robotic pool cleaners.

The TigerShark has been around for a few years and it’s proven itself to reliable and highly efficient based on customer feedback. Sometimes it’s better to go for a tried, true and tested technology. Is the Hayward TigerShark the best robotic pool cleaner? Well, it’s on the list for a reason. It deserves your consideration.


Hayward AquaNaut 400 | PHS41CST | 4-Wheel Drive

Hayward AquaNaut 400 robotic pool cleaner.

Takes advantage of variable speed pumps.

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AquaNaut 400 is a 4-wheel drive (yes, that’s correct) robotic pool cleaner engineered to clean larger pools, with deep ends up to 20’ x 40’.

Features Overview:

Cleans large debris without clogging

  • V-Flex variable vane turbine, eliminates clogs while maximizing power.
  • Perfect for use with variable-speed pool pumps.

Can navigates any surface

  • Impressive tire treads provide great climbing abilities and maneuverability.

Consistent suction

  • Patented adjustable roller skirt maintains optimal suction on uneven surfaces.

Complete pool coverage

  • Multiple pre-programmed steering sequences will cover your entire pool.

Learn More | Video Review

Optimal suction at virtually any flow

  • Three easy-to-change throats give you greater flexibility and improves suction performance. Perfectly suited to be used with variable-speed pool pumps, like the Pentair IntelliFlo 011018.

4-wheel drive capability

  • Robust 4-wheel drive mechanism enables it to maintain power and balance your pool deep end.

✓Documents:

  • View or download the MANUAL for the AquaNaut 400 (and 200).
  • View or download the BROCHURE for the AquaNaut 400 (and 200)

The AquaNaut 400 is the best robotic pool cleaner with 4-wheels.


Hayward AquaNaut 200 | PHS21CST | 2-Wheel Drive

Hayward AquaNaut 200 robotic pool cleaner.

Cheaper than the 300 but not as effective and maneuverable.

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AquaNaut 200 is a 2-wheel drive model designed for pools up to 16’ x 32’.

The features are the same as the AquaNaut 400, except for the 4 wheels, of course.

Video | Watch the AquaNaut 200 in Action

There’s much more information to share with these Hayward AquaNaut robotic pool cleaners which can be found in a recent article we’ve put together for you that goes over all of the nuts and bolts on these great cleaners. Read our review on the AquaNaut 400 & 200. These are relatively new models, engineered with Haywards latest pool cleaning systems and technology.

Poolvergnuegen, The PoolCleaner

Both of these AquaNaut models are identical to the Poolvergnuegen “The PoolCleaner” models. Hayward bought the company and rebranded these robotic pool cleaners. But, that doesn’t change the fact that these are excellent pool cleaners. Hayward was smart for buying Poolvergnuegen because the technology at the heart of both brands is impressive.

Personally, I love the styling of the AquaNaut models. They’re contemporary, slick and a big improvement from their original counterparts.

Poolvergnuegen Equivalent Designs:

  • The Poolcleaner 896584000020 4X
  • The Poolcleaner 896584000013 2X
The-pool-cleaner-4x-automatic-Poolvergnuegen-

Do you see the similarity? These are basic in looks. I love the AquaNaut’s style.

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Either way, read all the details in our comprehensive review article on the Poolvergnuegen version of these robotic pool cleaners. These pool cleaner are extremely well-made and popular with consumers. Just look at the reviews on Amazon. Both brands have the same reputation so the choice as to which one to buy is up to you. The AquaNaut models are newer.


What’s the Best Robotic Pool Cleaner?

All of these pool cleaners fit that category. The decision can only be made by you. How big is your pool? What’s your budget? What features do you want? These are the most important questions to answer.

This article on the best robotic cleaners helps us to understand one very important fact. Technology is advancing at a very rapid pace. Each advancement in technology makes our lives so much easier. The Robotic pool cleaners are being incorporated with newer and newer technologies each day. Each company has its own set of innovations. When you are selecting a robotic pool cleaner, it is wise to ponder for a while and think about what your pool really needs. Consider its dimensions, the climate and your affordability. Once you consider all these factors, you will find that choosing the best robotic pool cleaner is a piece of cake!

By now, I hope you know where to spend your money. I know there’s a lot of information contained in this article. It can be overwhelming. Perhaps you need to take a break and turn all of these options in your mind. I’m confident that the best robotic pool cleaner will be apparent to you very shortly — if it isn’t already. Trust you gut on this one. All of these pool cleaners are excellent in terms of quality and effectiveness. So, it really comes down to you pool size and how much money you want to spend.

Simple, right? I know, it never is. Nothing is straightforward when it comes to money.



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