Best Robotic Pool Cleaners in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update January 29, 2024
Many of us enjoy spending hot days in a swimming pool. Naturally, we want to keep them tidy, and the cleaning becomes a headache. ...Read more
PROS

The automatic self-diagnostics algorithm and the overload protection mechanism will simplify maintenance and ensure the robot works without hiccups. The adaptive seek control logic (ASCL) tech will optimise the robot's cleaning routine depending on the pools' geometry.

CONS
A single cycle might be not enough to clean the entire swimming pool surface from the dirt.
OUR VERDICT

The Hayward RC9990GR roves the pool's bottom, walls, even steps and its tile line. No extra hoses, hookups, or pumps are required with this robot. Its efficient cleaning patterns accommodate all pools, including those with gentle slopes, complex slopes, flat bottoms, and even diamond-shaped pools.

detailed parameters
USED FOR

Pool, walls, and floors

POOL TYPE / LENGTH

In-ground / up to 12 m

TYPE OF SURFACE

Gunite, Vinyl, Fibreglass, Pebble, Tile

CLEANING CYCLE SPAN
3 hours / single cycle 90 min / Quick Clean
CLEANING FEATURES
Brushes, Scrubs, Vacuums, Filters
SMART FUNCTIONS
Self-programmed, Scanner
USABILITY

Foam roller, Easy-clean cartridge filter system

WARRANTY

90 days (after registration)

PROS
The double brushing action will be able to scrub away bacteria and algae, leaving the pool not just spotless but also healthy. Meanwhile, the multi-layer filtration system will be capturing large debris as easily as ultra-fine dirt particles. The ergonomic design will let you remove the robot from the pool hassle-free.
CONS

The cable gets easily tangled. 

OUR VERDICT

The Dolphin Blue Maxi 40i is the most complete automatic pool-cleaning machine from the company yet. You can control the robot remotely. With its accurate navigation system and the CleverClean™ system scanning every inch systemically, the model does not leave a single tile unscrubbed.

detailed parameters
USED FOR

Floors, walls, and waterline

POOL TYPE / LENGTH

In-ground pool, above-ground pool (framed), up to 14 m

TYPE OF SURFACE

Vinyl, Rough ceramics, Smooth fibreglass, Coated concrete, Stainless steel

CLEANING CYCLE SPAN

1.5 / 2 / 2.5 hours cleaning cycle 

CLEANING FEATURES

Active double brushing: front + rear,  ultra-thin multi-layer filtration

SMART FUNCTIONS

Accurate Navigation System, APP MOVIL remote control

USABILITY

Ergonomic handle, Easy-clean filter

WARRANTY

2 years

PROS

You can choose a quick 90-minute cleaning cycle if the pool is not very dirty, or you can set it to work for a full 3-hour cycle so that everything is cleaned perfectly. At the same time, 2 cleaning speeds are available for your choice.

CONS

Doesn't actually climb up stairs.

OUR VERDICT

The Hayward RC9990CUB, operating on the basis of innovative microprocessor technology, is characterized by high performance, reliability and efficiency. With it, your pool will quickly shine with cleanliness. It has simple controls and is unpretentious in maintenance.

detailed parameters
USED FOR

Floors, walls, coves, and waterline

POOL TYPE / LENGTH

In-ground / up to 12 m

TYPE OF SURFACE

Gunite, Vinyl, Fibreglass, Pebble, Tile

CLEANING CYCLE SPAN

3 hours

CLEANING FEATURES

Scrubs, Vacuums, Filters (unique cartridge filter system)

SMART FUNCTIONS

Intelligent microprocessor-based technology, Patented Quick Clean technology, Two cleaning speeds

USABILITY

Efficient 24-volt motor, Ergonomic handle, No extra hoses, hookups, or pumps required

WARRANTY

1 year

PROS

The CleverClean™ system automatically scans the entire pool, making sure that each and every tile is scrubbed. The easy-access top-loading filtration basket captures and traps leaves, dirt, and debris, so you can clean the robot without wasting ample time removing different parts and so on.

CONS

The unit might not handle algae. 

OUR VERDICT

The Dolphin PoolStyle PLUS will accommodate everyday customers with average pools without presenting maintenance and operation challenges. Though not as feature-rich as its relative listed before, this model will leave the pool sparkling and consume even less energy than most budget robots.

detailed parameters
USED FOR

Floors and walls

POOL TYPE / LENGTH

In-ground pool, above-ground pool (framed), up to 10 m

TYPE OF SURFACE

Vinyl, Rough ceramics, Smooth fibreglass, Coated concrete, Stainless steel

CLEANING CYCLE SPAN

2 hours

CLEANING FEATURES

Brush turns 2x faster than robot movement speed for enhanced cleaning, Top-access filtration system 

SMART FUNCTIONS

Cleverclean scanning system, Automatic shut off at the end of cycle time, Motor protection mechanism in case of overload and out of water

USABILITY

Low-voltage 24v motor (transformer included), Patented tangle-free swivel cable 15 m length, Top opening with a removable easy-clean net filter

WARRANTY

2 years

PROS

The oversized handle will enable easy one-handed relocation. Besides floors and walls, the robot also cleans the float line. Armed with 2 large baskets, this model covers ~115 square metres without you emptying and cleaning the baskets.

CONS

The machine produces squeaking noises. 

OUR VERDICT

The WINNY Product QP might not be the most attractive machine but, with its impressive coverage and an affordable price tag, we can easily recommend this model to anyone who's fine with the robot looking a little shoddy but performing as diligently as the units that will cost you 50% more.

detailed parameters
USED FOR

Floors, walls, and float line

POOL TYPE / LENGTH

In-ground / maximum pool surface  115 m²

TYPE OF SURFACE

Vinyl, Ceramics, Fibreglass, Concrete, Stainless steel

CLEANING CYCLE SPAN

N/A

CLEANING FEATURES

Two brushes, Two large filter baskets

SMART FUNCTIONS

Intelligent program integrated into the control unit

USABILITY

Top handle

WARRANTY

Amazon's 30-day return policy

Trust the TigerShark

When average robotic pool cleaners fail, the Hayward RC9990GR rises to the occasion. This is a mean machine that easily handles the most contaminated pools.

Looking inside, the model features multiple contributors that separate this robot from less impressive automatic cleaners, but the biggest one is the adaptive seek control logic (ASCL) microprocessor. Optimising the cleaning routine based on the pool's size and shape, this machine ensures spotless results despite what the pool's geometry might look like. The second most attractive quality has to be the on-board pump, providing an intense vacuuming action and picking up the tiniest dirt particles and debris.

When you remove these two attributes from the equation, everything else falls into place but without contributing as much as the aforementioned features. To start with, the simple direct drive design adopts non-corrosive bearings, so the model's even the most fragile components will not start corroding with time. To continue, this machine handles all bottom and wall types, including flat bottoms, gentle slopes, diamond-shaped pools, complex slopes, you name them. You can choose between PVC and foam brushes, with the latter offering improved adhesion to pools made from ceramic and polyester, ensuring excellent cleaning results in subpar conditions, while the former are less efficient but have an increased lifespan.

Self-sufficiency and Performance

Pivoting towards cleaning programs, this machine lets you select between its very own 90-minute Quick Clean cycle and the company's standard 3-hour complete cleaning cycle that covers floors, walls, coves, and the waterline. Between these two, you can maintain the pool's appearance cleaning once every few days or have the robot go to town once a week or so, cleaning the whole thing.

We like the Quick Clean cycle but a single cycle might not be always enough to clean the entire swimming pool surface from the dirt, so we would recommend choosing the standard cleaning cycle from time to time even when the pool seems fine. What we would not recommend is worrying about maintenance since, with the robot's electronic self-diagnostics and overload protection, the machine should serve years without hiccups.

Long story short, the Hayward RC9990GR is the most hardworking automatic electric pool vacuum there is, at least from what we've seen yet, roving the bottom, walls, steps, and even the tile line without complaints.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £1,250.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B008UNUEH8

VIDEO

Let the Dolphin do the Work

Swim with sharks and you get bitten, swim with the Dolphin Blue Maxi 40i and know that you can enjoy the pool without worrying about dirt, debris, algae, or anything like that. No, this dolphin is as effective as it is efficient, cleaning pools without naming names.

One would even argue that this is the most complete automatic electric pool vacuum but, first things first, let's start with its lightweight and ergonomic design that, along with the fast clean-water release mechanism, lets you easily remove this dolphin from the pool. The one issue we have on the ergonomics front is that the cable gets easily tangled, something that doesn't interrupt the machine's operation but also something that you'll be occasionally fixing anyway. Still, the robot is more than independent, meaning that you can kick back, relax, and watch this dolphin do all the dirty work.

Stacked up against its predecessors though, the Blue Maxi 40i is a huge upgrade, owing to the CleverClean™ system that systemically scans the pool's every inch, leaving not one tile unscrubbed. But, as important as this technology is, it is the active double brushing action that defines this robot, separating the product from its less effective relatives. Easily scrubbing away even the most stubborn algae and bacteria buildups, the model lets you have kids and pets swimming in the pool without worrying about them contracting something nasty and/or dangerous. Likewise, the robot adopts the company's signature multi-layer filtration system that captures large debris as well as fine and ultra-fine dirt particles alike. Between these systems, the Blue Maxi 40i covers the bottom, walls, and even the flotation line with its side-sweep brushes.

An Accurate Navigation System

Controlling robotic pool cleaners in a remote fashion is always more convenient than the opposite approach. To that end, you can use the Movil app and program the robot without even touching it. The application will let you set a weekly schedule, choosing both the operations' day and time, or program one-time cleaning. Also, you'll be able to select between 1.5-, 2-, and 2.5-hour cleaning cycles, prioritising speed or thoroughness. That said, thanks to the accurate navigation system scanning the pool's geometry with precision, the coverage will always be above-average.

In short, the Dolphin Blue Maxi 40i offers advanced options, remote control, effective and efficient cleaning, and easy maintenance, making this model an easy choice to make.

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B07PGG5XKP

High Cleaning Performance

Robotic pool cleaners offer a lot of help in cleaning pools, but their actual real-world cleaning performance can often vary wildly. Different types of pools don't lend themselves to be cleaned easily by anything, and robotic pool cleaners, despite their ever-increasing effectiveness, can still often struggle with providing effective cleaning. The overall cleaning performance of the Hayward RC9990CUB TigerShark Robotic Pool Vacuum, though, is something else entirely. This robotic pool vacuum has been designed to work with a variety of underground pools, providing a thorough and effective cleaning in those that other robotic pool vacuums often struggle with.

To start with, setting up and controlling this robotic pool vacuum is about as easy as it can get. The cleaner doesn't require any additional hoses or pumps connected to it, nor does it need to connect to the pool's filtration system, as all of the cleaning tools are self-contained within the unit. Those who buy the optional caddy cart will also find it quite easy to transport and store the unit along with its power supply and cord. The unit is also quite efficient and reliable, able to run autonomously for a full cleaning cycle that requires little to no supervision.

Two Cleaning Modes

Speaking of the cleaning cycles, this unit offers you a choice to two different cleaning modes. The quick 90-minute cleaning cycle lets the unit run through a quick cleaning of your pool, which serves great as a regular setting for those who just want a regular cleaning done often. The unit also offers a full 3-hour cleaning cycle that will give your pool a deep and thorough cleaning, which is great for those who haven't cleaned their pool in a while and want to make sure that every last bit of dirt and gunk is removed.

The effectiveness of this unit's cleaning isn't to be underestimated. The vacuum utilizes a strong yet efficient 24-volt motor that is powerful, and the unit contains its own on-board pump and filtration system that offers strong vacuum suction and removal of any debris in the water. Maintenance of the unit is also easy, with the filter being quite easy to remove and clean, requiring nothing more than a spray-down with a hose in order to clean out all of the collected dirt and grime. Best of all, though, is the fact that the strong, durable components of this unit ensure reliable service for years to come, making this robotic pool vacuum an excellent choice for those looking for a quality unit.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £1,250.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B019C98AQK

Not a bad Dolphin Either

The Dolphin PoolStyle PLUS is not quite as impressive as the company's previous model listed here but, having said that, this robot is also not without its advantages. While the machine might not be as effective at removing algae as its relative, the system that accelerates the brush twofold and enables enhanced cleaning makes the robot, at times, even more effective than its more expensive contemporary.

Generally speaking, this system will remove all algae (barring an occasional stubborn buildup that will require two runs) and bacteria, leaving the pool sparkling. What's more, unlike its direct relative, this robot comes outfitted with a tangle-free swivel cable that will not require frequent untangling and, measuring 15 metres length-wise, will let you unleash the dolphin without relying upon multiple adapters.

Sure, this machine is a little more basic, something that becomes evident when you find out that you cannot program and manage this robot remotely and also that you cannot choose between multiple cleaning cycles. The second is not the biggest downside since most people seldom use more than the default one but having that option is always nice anyway.

The model is just as versatile though, cleaning pools made from smooth fibreglass, vinyl, coated concrete, rough ceramics, even stainless steel without hiccups. Furthermore, the company's CleverClean™ protocols have not gone anywhere, scanning the pools' geometry using advanced algorithms and ensuring optimal coverage and precise cleaning.

Easy-Acess Top-Loading Basket

Optimal coverage means cleaning floors and walls, something that this machine handles with ease. But most automatic cleaners within this price bracket can do that. What they cannot do, however, is boast an easy-access top-loading filtration system, with the basket atop the machine capturing and trapping leaves, dirt, and debris, so while the robot cleans the pool without facing considerable challenges, you'll be cleaning the robot with matching ease. Last but not least, the model automatically shuts off when the cleaning cycle ends and an overload protection mechanism will ensure that the machine lasts without you worrying about short-circuits and overloading the system.

All things considered, the Dolphin PoolStyle PLUS accommodates everyday pools and customers even more than its premium peers, ensuring excellent results without providing unnecessary features that most people do not use anyway.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £999.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B01FUKFHXE

Cleaning even the Float Line

The WINNY Product QP is the least expensive robot within this lineup, even with its looks revealing the model's more budget disposition right away. Needless to say, with its odd, cheap-looking orange-ish and blue paintwork, this machine does not have the sleek presence that the previous models can boast.

Still, as much as we dislike its appearance, aesthetics is the least important subject when you're discussing robotic pool cleaners. What's much more important is coverage, and this fellow covers pool surfaces measuring as 115 square metres without issues. What's also more important is the machine being versatile, which is pretty much the case here. While the people behind the product do not outline that this one can clean pebble and tile pools (even though the robot can), everything from ceramic and concrete to stainless steel, fibreglass, and vinyl pools is fair game.

Even the more expensive models sometimes struggle cleaning the float line but this robot cleans them, floors, and walls with comparable ease. Sure, the machine will sometimes produce squeaking noises whilst doing so, but this is a given when you're discussing automatic cleaners below 1000 quid.

What's not a given when you are discussing these models though is the intelligent program integrated into the control unit that figures out the best route and spends less time covering the entire pool, so the robot will usually be done within 90 minutes (there are no pre-set cleaning cycles here so the time will vary depending on the pool's size and conditions).

Easy Relocation

Again, this robot is an efficient one, especially by budget models' standards, not just owing to the above-mentioned intelligent program that was integrated into the control unit but also to the two brushes covering more pool surface at a time. To add more, while most robotic pool cleaners come equipped with a filtration system incorporating one basket, this one features two, so you'll be emptying and cleaning the robot on a less frequent basis than usual.

The last stop before wrapping this one up is the chunky top handle. As we have already established, appearance-wise, this is not the best automatic pool vacuum there is, but we like the oversized handle that lets you easily carry this already compact machine as well as remove it from the pool.

To give you the gist, as long as you're fine with your robotic pool cleaner producing occasional noise and looking a little unattractive, the WINNY Product QP is about as good as its less affordable peers.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £536.64
Stock In stock
ASIN B07TT5MT29

What Is a Robottic Pool Cleaner?

Every owner of a swimming pool inevitably faces cleaning. Filters and chemicals can purify and clean water, yet the hard particles of dirt deposit on the pool floor and organic sediments settle on the walls below a waterline, so you have to remove them manually. Dust, dirt, grit, insects, leaves, etc. may fall into the pool, breaching the comfort and microclimate. The pool cleaning by hands is laborious and ineffective. The leading companies in robotics developed robotic pool cleaners that are real technological wonders. Robotic pool cleaners are state-of-the-art products that incorporate advanced technologies. These space-saving appliances will undertake the cleaning, working under the preset program.

Customers who highly value their time and hunt for high-end devices would surely appreciate having a robotic vacuum at home as well. Also, you may be interested in our selections of cordless vacuums, stick vacuums & electric brooms, and steam mops.

Best Robotic Pool Cleaners

What Features to Compare

Cleaning modes

Choosing a robotic pool cleaner should be done in accordance with the type of pool you have (in-ground, gunite, or inflatable) and its finish. Also, consider what cleaning modes are supported to make sure the device will handle the job at its best. In general, robotic cleaners can be divided into two major types:

  • Robotic pool cleaners for walls and floor;
  • Robotic pool cleaners for floor.

Operating these cleaners is as easy as it gets. Fitted with special rollers and caterpillars, they easily move across the surface of the pool with no supervision needed and can clean off limescale and ingrained dirt from the pool finish with ease. These rollers can be of several types: combo brushes for film and tile; PVC brushes for film and gunite pools; super brushes for tile, film, stainless steel and composites. In addition to the mentioned types, there are special turbo brushes located right in front or inside the suction tube to speed up cleaning, and there are those with scrapers capable of removing the toughest stains without causing damage to the coating.

Self-sufficiency and performance

Self-sufficiency and performance are the criteria of no small importance when it comes to choosing a robotic pool cleaner. These parameters show how effectively a cleaner works and how much time it requires to get the job done. This is influenced by software solutions, allowing a cleaner to run smartly and effectively. You should consider performance (gallons per hour) depending on the length and the depth of your pool, and the length of a power cord. The bigger the pool is, the higher performance and the longer the power cord is required.

Usability

Usability is the third important aspect to draw your attention to. Usability includes implementation of controls, for example, availability of remote control. The ease of cleaning a pool cleaner is significant as well. The special brushes and scrapers thoroughly clean the surface from bloom, dirt, algae, and microorganisms, and then the cleaner draws it together with water. Then, the dirt passes through a filter and deposits in a canister or a porous bag, and the purified water leaks outside. Therefore, the ease of cleaning is also important. The other functions and elements such as a transportation caddy, timer and programming, quick cleaning, anti-tangle systems and accessory sensors will undoubtedly come in handy when cleaning the pool.

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