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10 Best Above Ground Automatic Pool Cleaners 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Dolphin (2025 Model) Nautilus Pool Up Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner, Floor and Walls Scrubber Brush, Ideal for Above/In-Ground Pools Up to 26 FT in Length

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,381
Type of Cleaner
Cleaning Coverage
Filter Type and Capacity

Most important from
17090 reviews

Type of Cleaner
I'm impressed! The Dolphin Nautilus climbs up and down pool walls, ensuring a spotless clean, and has converted me from a pool robot skeptic to a believer.
Cleaning Coverage
This Dolphin is a powerhouse! It effortlessly cleans pool walls and floors without missing a spot, even handling heavy debris loads with ease.
Filter Type and Capacity
The filters are a breeze to clean; just rinse out the debris and you're ready for another cycle.
Power Source
With Wi-Fi connectivity, you can control and schedule cleaning cycles through an app, adding convenience to its efficient cleaning process.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
The filters are a breeze to clean; just rinse out the debris and you're ready for another cycle.
Cleaning Speed
Even with minor manual intervention needed for corners and stairs, the Dolphin Nautilus significantly reduces cleaning time and effort.
Durability and Build Quality
Its cord design prevents tangling, and while it might get stuck on stairs occasionally, it handles the pool's bench area with ease.

The Dolphin Nautilus Pool Up Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner is designed for efficiency and convenience, particularly for small to medium-sized above-ground or in-ground pools up to 26 feet in length. Its standout feature is the smart pool cleaning capability, which allows it to effectively scrub both floors and walls using an active scrubbing brush, reducing the need for manual cleaning. This model includes a plug-and-play system that simplifies operation; just plug it in, drop it into your pool, and let it work its magic in approximately two hours.

The cleaner is powered by an AC source with a lithium-ion battery backup which contributes to its efficiency. However, the weight of 28.5 pounds may make it somewhat cumbersome to handle for some users. The build quality seems robust, with a 40-year legacy of Dolphin products known for durability, although it is constructed primarily from plastic.

Maintenance is fairly straightforward due to its easy-to-use design, but users should be aware that it involves some manual intervention when cleaning the filter and brushes. It is self-propelled and offers a limited warranty, which is a nice assurance of its longevity. The unit also ranks well in customer satisfaction with a 4.2 out of 5-star rating from over 17,000 reviews, indicating a generally positive user experience.

This model is best suited for pool owners who want a reliable, semi-automated cleaning solution that covers both floors and walls without requiring much manual input, and are willing to manage its weight and maintenance needs. It does not require assembly, which is another point of convenience for those looking for an easy setup.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,381
Type of Cleaner
Cleaning Coverage
Filter Type and Capacity

Most important from
17090 reviews

Type of Cleaner
I'm impressed! The Dolphin Nautilus climbs up and down pool walls, ensuring a spotless clean, and has converted me from a pool robot skeptic to a believer.
Cleaning Coverage
This Dolphin is a powerhouse! It effortlessly cleans pool walls and floors without missing a spot, even handling heavy debris loads with ease.
Filter Type and Capacity
The filters are a breeze to clean; just rinse out the debris and you're ready for another cycle.
Power Source
With Wi-Fi connectivity, you can control and schedule cleaning cycles through an app, adding convenience to its efficient cleaning process.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
The filters are a breeze to clean; just rinse out the debris and you're ready for another cycle.
Cleaning Speed
Even with minor manual intervention needed for corners and stairs, the Dolphin Nautilus significantly reduces cleaning time and effort.
Durability and Build Quality
Its cord design prevents tangling, and while it might get stuck on stairs occasionally, it handles the pool's bench area with ease.
#3

Dolphin (2025 Model) E10 Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner, Active Scrubber Brush, Top Load Filters Access, Ideal for Above-Ground Pools up to 30 FT in Length

Rating
9.8
Cleaning Coverage
Filter Type and Capacity
Ease of Use and Maintenance

Most important from
6500 reviews

Cleaning Coverage
Even with sloped edges, the Dolphin remains stable and effectively climbs the walls.
Filter Type and Capacity
The design of the filter basket is well thought out, making maintenance straightforward.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
The Dolphin E10 is incredibly simple to operate and makes pool cleaning effortless.
Durability and Build Quality
This cleaner is worth the investment as it delivers the cleanest pool ever.

The Dolphin E10 Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner is designed specifically for above-ground pools up to 30 feet in length. One of its standout features is the active scrubbing brush that is efficient at removing debris and ensuring a clean pool surface without damaging it. This model also benefits from top-load filter access, making it straightforward to remove and clean the filter, which is user-friendly for regular maintenance. Its plug-and-play system further simplifies the process; just plug it in, place it in the pool, and it can clean the pool in approximately 1.5 hours.

The Smart Navigation Technology helps the cleaner to efficiently map the pool and navigate effectively, regardless of the pool’s shape or surface type. The Dolphin E10 is also noted for its lightweight design at 14.52 pounds, making it easy to handle and store. With a long legacy of reliability and performance, this model enjoys positive customer reviews.

However, it is worth noting that it requires a power source of 240 volts AC, which may not be compatible with all standard outlets. Additionally, while it is very efficient at cleaning, it may lack some advanced features found in higher-end models. The build quality and durability are commendable, and the cleaner's ease of use makes it suitable for most pool owners seeking a reliable and straightforward cleaning solution.

Rating
9.8
Cleaning Coverage
Filter Type and Capacity
Ease of Use and Maintenance

Most important from
6500 reviews

Cleaning Coverage
Even with sloped edges, the Dolphin remains stable and effectively climbs the walls.
Filter Type and Capacity
The design of the filter basket is well thought out, making maintenance straightforward.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
The Dolphin E10 is incredibly simple to operate and makes pool cleaning effortless.
Durability and Build Quality
This cleaner is worth the investment as it delivers the cleanest pool ever.

Buying Guide for the Best Above Ground Automatic Pool Cleaners

Choosing the right above-ground automatic pool cleaner can make maintaining your pool much easier and more efficient. These devices are designed to clean your pool with minimal effort on your part, but selecting the right one involves understanding several key specifications. By knowing what to look for, you can ensure that you pick a model that best suits your pool's needs and your personal preferences.
Type of CleanerAbove-ground automatic pool cleaners come in three main types: suction-side, pressure-side, and robotic. Suction-side cleaners attach to your pool's filtration system and use the suction power to move around and clean. Pressure-side cleaners use the pressure from your pool's pump to move and collect debris in a separate bag. Robotic cleaners are self-contained units that operate independently of your pool's filtration system. The type of cleaner you choose depends on your pool's setup and your preference for convenience and maintenance.
Cleaning CoverageCleaning coverage refers to the areas of the pool that the cleaner can reach and clean effectively. Some cleaners are designed to clean only the floor, while others can clean the walls and even the waterline. If your pool has a lot of debris or algae buildup on the walls, you might want a cleaner that can handle vertical surfaces. Consider the specific cleaning needs of your pool when evaluating this spec.
Filter Type and CapacityThe filter type and capacity determine how much debris the cleaner can collect before it needs to be emptied. Some cleaners have small filter bags or cartridges that need frequent emptying, while others have larger capacities that can handle more debris. If your pool tends to accumulate a lot of leaves, dirt, or other debris, a cleaner with a larger filter capacity will be more convenient and require less frequent maintenance.
Power SourceThe power source of an above-ground automatic pool cleaner can be either your pool's existing pump and filtration system or an independent power supply. Suction-side and pressure-side cleaners typically rely on your pool's pump, while robotic cleaners have their own power supply and often come with a power cord. If you prefer a cleaner that doesn't put additional strain on your pool's pump, a robotic cleaner might be the best choice.
Ease of Use and MaintenanceEase of use and maintenance are important factors to consider when choosing a pool cleaner. Some models are more user-friendly and require less effort to set up and maintain. Look for features like easy-to-clean filter bags, simple assembly, and intuitive controls. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, prioritize models that are known for their ease of use and low maintenance requirements.
Cleaning SpeedCleaning speed refers to how quickly the cleaner can cover and clean your pool. Faster cleaners can save you time, especially if you need to clean your pool frequently. However, faster isn't always better if it means sacrificing thoroughness. Consider how often you need to clean your pool and how much time you're willing to spend on the cleaning process when evaluating this spec.
Durability and Build QualityDurability and build quality are crucial for ensuring that your pool cleaner lasts for many seasons. Look for models made from high-quality materials that can withstand exposure to pool chemicals and UV rays. Reading reviews and checking for warranties can also give you an idea of the cleaner's longevity. If you want a reliable and long-lasting cleaner, prioritize models with a reputation for durability.

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