A robotic pool cleaner can make cleaning your pool a breeze. For instance, a dirty pool is a serious health hazard. It can cause diseases like diarrhea and more. So, since cleaning swimming pools is unavoidable, a good robotic pool cleaner will make it easier. Today we will review the best robotic pool cleaners under $500.
Also, When buying a pool cleaner, you need to consider a couple of factors. And here, you will get everything you need to know before spending your hard-earned money on a robotic pool cleaner.
10 Best Robotic Pool Cleaners Under $500 Comparison Table
Here is a quick look at the features of all the robotic pool cleaners in our list. It will show you how they stack up against each other.
| Robotic Pool Cleaners | Runtime | Cordless | Self-Parking | Max Pool Depth | Route Planning |
| AIPER Seagull SE | 90 mins | Yes | Yes | 8.2 ft | No |
| PoolGuard Automatic (Cordless) | 120 mins | Yes | Yes | 19.7 ft | Yes |
| Ofuzzi Cyber (Cordless) | 120 mins | Yes | Yes | 6.56 ft | No |
| Doheny’s ProDrive AG | N/A | No | No | – | No |
| AIPER Orca 800 | N/A | No | No | 8.2 ft | Yes |
| Paxcess Automatic (Cordless) | 60 – 90 mins | Yes | No | 6.6 ft | No |
| Aqua Dash AG | N/A | No | No | – | No |
| Rock&Rocker Automatic | N/A | No | No | – | Yes |
| Aquabot SP100 | N/A | No | No | 10 ft | No |
| AIPER Seagull 1000 | 90 mins | Yes | Yes | 6.56 ft | No |
| Dolphin E10 | N/A | No | No | 6.5 ft | Yes |
10 Best Robotic Pool Cleaners Under $500 Review
With so many options out there, it can become difficult to choose a robotic pool cleaner. But, especially when shopping on a tight budget, you want to make the most of your money. Here are the 10 best pool cleaners under $500 to buy now.
1. AIPER Seagull SE (Cordless)
If you want a simple and easy-to-use robotic pool cleaner under the $500 mark, the AIPER Seagull SE is a fantastic choice. It is cordless, so you do not have to worry about rescuing it if it gets tangled.
Moreover, we also quite like the design. Also, it comes in two different colors; gray and white. The gray one is sleek with a top handle that has a carbon fiber look.
In addition, this robotic pool cleaner has more going for it other than the cordless design and cool looks. And its battery is long-lasting too. You get 90 solid minutes of cleaning performance when cleaning a decent-sized pool.
The dual-drive motors do a great job cleaning and gathering debris and dust. It uses two independent brushes to deep-clean your pool. There are some quality-of-life improvements as well, like the self-parking feature.
This feature helps the cleaner park itself when it finishes a cleaning cycle or when the battery is low. Overall, it is a solid robotic pool cleaner that you can buy for under $500 right now.
Highlighted Features
- Dual-drive motor
- Cleans pools automatically
- LED indicators that tell you their status
- Independent brushes for deep clean
Pros
- Easy to use
- No tangling
- It comes in a cool design
- It has decent color options
- Battery charge lasts a long time
Cons
- Charging time is 2.5 hours
2. PoolGuard Automatic (Cordless)
Next up, we have another cordless robotic pool cleaner. The PoolGuard automatic does not cost that much. However, it is not a cheap pool cleaner either. Typically, we recommend people not buy robotic pool cleaners that are dirt cheap, even when they are on a tight budget.
However, this robotic pool cleaner’s balanced mix of usable features makes it quite a good buy if you are on a tight budget. It has a convenient adjustable nozzle that easily removes debris and dirt.
Moreover, it has some smarts built into it. It can use auto-routing to build itself a plan and a cleaning route. There are built-in chips that calculate the most effective path for cleaning. It will even avoid going over a path where it has already been once. This improves efficiency.
This cleaner also does not get stuck all the time. Now if there is some weird or major obstacle on the way, it could struggle a bit. However, its automatic release feature does a good job of keeping it from getting stuck in drain covers and pool ladders.
One small gripe is that it only works for flat-bottom pools. Also, the charging time is shorter than the previous one. However, you might not get the same battery life.
Highlighted Features
- Auto-route planning
- Adjustable nozzle
- Self-parking capabilities
- Auto shut down
- Auto release
Pros
- Short charging time
- Durable build quality
- Short battery charging time
- Efficient cleaning capabilities
Cons
- Only works for flat-bottom pools
3. Ofuzzi Cyber (Cordless)
We have to give it to this one. It is one of the better-looking pool cleaners in this review roundup. You get the whole package with the Ofuzzi Cyber Cordless pool cleaner.
Looks are not the only thing it has going for it. It even has the smarts to back it up. Firstly, this robotic pool cleaner can self-park. The intelligent auto docking system allows it to dock at its station if the battery runs low or when it finishes cleaning.
The Ofuzzi Cyber also has powerful motors with effective brushes to pick up dirt and debris. It can even help you get rid of pet hair from your pool. Thanks to this cleaner, you can be sure that your pool will be squeaky clean.
The Ofuzzi Cyber cleaner is suitable for above-ground and in-ground pools with a flat bottom. Overall, it is a great cleaner for the price. However, it only comes in one color option – gray.
Highlighted Features
- Intelligent docking system
- IPX8 water resistant
- 120 minutes of runtime
Pros
- Safe and easy to use
- Great cleaning performance
- Stylish design
- Versatile
Cons
- Only comes in a single color
4. Doheny’s ProDrive AG
The cleaning prowess of Doheny’s ProDrive AG robotic pool cleaner is surprisingly good. It works great for above-ground pools and can work in deep pools, which is impressive. In addition, it works well with pools of different shapes.
It is not cordless, though. But we will not knock it too much for that since the cord is long. However, the cord is 43 ft, and we do not think it will be a problem.
The cleaning performance is great as well. Although this Doheny’s ProDrive AG is a more economical product, we are impressed by its dirt removal. It has two brushes that make quick work of stubborn debris.
In addition, the suction ports can filter up to 80 gallons of water per minute. That is mighty impressive for such a small pool cleaner. Usability is not bad, either.
The ProDrive AG uses filter bags that you can clean easily and is mostly hassle-free. With all that said, we are not particular fans of the design. It is not bad, but basic.
So far, the Seagull SE is the best-designed robotic pool cleaner yet. This ProDrive AG gets B- in the design department. However, the wheels on this cleaner are large. The designers’ little attention to detail helps the ProDrive AG maneuver in the pool relatively easily.
Highlighted Features
- Works up to 33 feet
- Filters up to 80 gallons of water
- Does not get stuck easily
- Easy maintenance
Pros
- Great performance
- Respectable cleaning prowess
- Extra-large wheels help with maneuverability
- Easy to clean
- Affordable price
Cons
- Design is not so satisfactory
5. AIPER Orca 800
AIPER makes another appearance in our roundup of the best robotic pool cleaners under $500. This time it is the AIPER Orca 800. Design-wise, the Orca 800 from the guys at AIPER looks similar to Doheny’s ProDrive AG. However, it pulls ahead in some areas. Firstly, it works for both above-ground and in-ground pools.
The powerful 150w motors and brushes can clean pools up to 8.2 ft. The hyper-scrubbing brush and its filtering system will give your pool a deep clean. It even has a high-flow rate of 79 GPM.
The filter stands out on this one. It captures all sorts of debris and dirt. In addition, the 33 ft cable is tangle-free. So you do not have to worry about it getting stuck on its cable.
AIPER’s Orca 800 is an efficient pool cleaner too. You can adjust its cleaning pattern and choose between 3 preset cleaning modes. There is a 1-hour cleaning setting, a 2-hour cleaning setting, and a 3-hour one too.
The design is not bad either. Also, we liked how it can easily navigate around when cleaning. This smart pool cleaner will get you a clean pool every time. Overall, AIPER did a fantastic job with this one.
There are two versions of the Orca 800. You have the regular Orca 800 and the Orca 800 Mate. Both are equally viable options.
Highlighted Features
- Capable filtration system
- Floor scrubbing gives pools a deep clean
- Tangle-free cord
- Compact and lightweight
Pros
- Easy to use
- Does not get stuck
- Powerful motors
- Superb filters
Cons
- Cannot clean walls
6. Paxcess Automatic (Cordless)
Paxcess Automatic Cordless robotic pool cleaner does nothing exceptionally well; it does not do anything wrong either. It is a capable pool cleaner with a decent feature set that does the job. And for its price, we think this is a decent buy.
It is cordless, first of all. Even though some corded cleaners claim tangle-free, you cannot beat cordless. A pool cleaner cannot get tangled with no cords, right?
Anyway, how does it perform? Very good for the most part. Also, the powerful motors, bottom scrubber, and suction ensure your pool is squeaky clean.
In addition, this Paxcess Automatic robotic pool cleaner is lightweight and well-built. So, you do not need to worry about durability with this one. And since it does not weigh much, moving it around is easy too.
We like the large battery too. It has a 5,000 mAh that can do a 1.5-hour cleaning cycle without sweat. Its filters are powerful, too, and also easy to clean. So, maintenance will not be a chore.
However, the long charge time is one caveat of having a large battery. It takes about 4 to 5 hours to charge fully.
This means that you must think ahead when you need to clean your pool. Make sure you have enough time to let your cleaner fully charge. Oh, and also, it cannot clean walls or stairs, which is a bummer.
Highlighted Features
- Very large battery
- Powerful motor
- Lightweight
- Durable build quality
Pros
- Affordable price
- Parks automatically
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Cannot clean stairs and walls
7. Aqua Dash AG
If you want a simple, hassle-free robotic pool cleaner with a long cable for cleaning above-ground pools, get the Aqua Dash AG. It is a no-nonsense pool cleaner that gets the job done.
It does not come with any gimmicky or smart features. But it nails the basics. It has decently powerful motors and brushes that clean your pool thoroughly.
Apart from that, the 4 large wheels and its Super Jetblast technology help it clean your pool fast. It does not sacrifice cleaning quality for speed, though. The Aqua Dash AG creates a powerful water stream that propels it forward, which gives you that efficient cleaning.
However, the Aqua Dash AG is not a cordless cleaner. So, you will still have to deal with cables. At least the cable is pretty long. It has a 40 ft cable and can clean deep swimming pools too.
The filter collects dirt and debris effectively, as it should. Overall, we have no complaints about this one. It just lacks fancy features like route planning. Although it has no cutting-edge features, it gets the job done and is a solid buy for someone looking for an affordable robotic pool cleaner.
Highlighted Features
- Jetblast propulsion
- Powerful motors
- Plug-and-play design
Pros
- Good cleaning performance
- Easy to maintain and clean
- Perfect for above-ground pools
- Long cord and lightweight design
Cons
- No fancy features
8. Rock&Rocker Automatic
The Rock&Rocker Automatic Pool cleaner comes just barely under $500. But unlike many cleaners on our list, this one can clean walls! Of course, that is not the only thing it has going for itself.
First up, we love how it looks. We will be the first to say it; design does not matter much regarding robotic pool cleaners. However, it is part of the experience of using a product.
Okay, so the design is good. What about the performance? It is more than good. The Rock&Rocker Automatic has 2 powerful motors and 4 PVA sponges that effectively clean your pool. And did we mention that it can clean the walls? Because that is a bonus in our books.
Using this robotic pool cleaner will save much time cleaning your pool. Moreover, thanks to its intelligent system, you can set it to auto-clean.
You can choose from three modes – 1-hour, 2-hour, and 3-hour cleaning sessions. All three of the cleaning settings require no supervision. Therefore, you can set it and do something else.
You will have a perfectly cleaned pool by the time you are done with other chores. If you have a busy schedule, this cleaner will make your life easier. And we are all for that.
Highlighted Features
- Extra large filters with easy top access
- Powerful 2pcs motors
- Swivel cord which allows tangle-free operation
- Cleans swimming pool of up to 50 ft
Pros
- Very easy to use
- Durable build quality
- Does not require any supervision
- Easy access filters
- Can clean swimming pool walls
Cons
- Cannot climb and clean stairs
9. Aquabot SP100
The Aquabot SP100 is the perfect robotic pool cleaner for those who have a small to medium-sized pool. It works for all kinds of surfaces. You can use it on tile, vinyl, and more.
A good filtration system is crucial for a pool cleaner. Fortunately, this cleaner has that covered. An ultrafine filtration system traps all dirt and debris when cleaning.
In addition, it can clean the entire pool. The Aquabot SP100 can clean walls, waterlines, coves, and floors. Its motors are powerful too. The designers at Aquabot did not skimp on the quality of the brushes either.
It comes with quality, high-corrugated PVA brushes. There is also another additional rotating brush. Coupled with the motor, you get a powerful pool-cleaning device – no dirt or debris stands a chance.
The filters are very effective since they are ultrafine. The innovative filtration system will give you peace of mind that once the thing starts, it will not leave any dirt behind. Plus, the filter is easy to clean too. Moreover, You can customize its routines with 1.5-hour cleaning cycles if you want more control.
Highlighted Features
- Ultrafine filtration
- Powerful motors
- High-corrugated PVA brushes
- Safe for use on all kinds of surfaces
Pros
- Customizable cleaning cycles
- Easy to maintain
- Simple and classy design
Cons
- Not many smart features
10. AIPER Seagull 1000
The AIPER Seagull 1000 is a complete package with a tasteful design with attractive features. It will give you a squeaky-clean pool in just 90 minutes. It has powerful dual motors and a large filter – 3.9L, specifically.
We loved how effortless it is to use. You can set it up and just let it clean your pool right in front of your eyes. Moreover, since it is cordless, you do not need to worry about it getting tangled.
It comes with cool features like self-parking and also a low battery detector. This cleaner will park itself without any intervention after it finishes cleaning or has a low battery.
These simple features make the overall user experience of a robotic pool cleaner much more enjoyable. While you certainly do not need smart features, having them makes cleaning your pool a breeze.
Lastly, we love the impressive range of this thing. This AIPER Seagull 1000 robotic pool cleaner has a 5,000 mAh battery that lasts very long. You can be sure it will clean your pool thoroughly before running out of charge.
Highlighted Features
- Simple and classy design
- 5,000 mAh battery
- Cordless operation
- Deep pool cleaning
Pros
- Smart features
- Easy to use
- Durable build quality
- Large cleaning range
Cons
- Cannot clean walls
Bonus Robotic Pool Cleaner
Dolphin E10
If you can stretch your budget over $500, then the Dolphin E10 is worth checking out. It is a great robotic cleaner from a reputable brand called Dolphin.
They make very durable, high-performance robotic pool cleaners with modern features that simplify life. And what is the point of a robotic pool cleaner if it does not make life easy?
The E10 from Dolphin works on all kinds of above-ground pools. You get a very efficient 24V DC motor that powers the whole show. Since it is power efficient, you will also save on energy costs. Moreover, its active scrubbing brush quickly removes dirt and grime from your pool.
Its filtration system is also top-notch, with a capacity to filter 4,000 gallons of water. With this kind of filtration and deep cleaning performance, you can bet your pool will be cleaner than ever. The best part is that you do not have to do the heavy lifting here – you do not.
Dolphin’s E10 is very light. But that does not mean it has poor build quality. Quite the contrary. We love the design and durability of this pool cleaner.
It even comes with advanced features like smart navigation. Smart navigation helps it choose the most efficient path for cleaning. The cleaning time is short too, only 1.5 hours.
Highlighted Features
- Efficient 24V DC motor
- HyperGrip rubber tracks
- Smart navigation
- Deep cleaning capabilities
Pros
- Very attractive design
- Smart features
- Easy to use and clean
- Impressive filtration system
Cons
- Costs a bit over $500
Robotic Pool Cleaner Under $500 Buying Guide
Before you make a purchase, knowing what to look for is always a good idea. Not all models will be the right one for you. For example, some work only within a certain depth. So, here are some important factors to keep in mind.
• Pool Type and Size
When shopping for a robotic pool cleaner on any budget, you must consider your pool type and size first. Robotic cleaners cannot clean all types of pools. They have size and depth limits. So, ensure the cleaner you buy can handle your pool’s size and depth.
• Cleaning Performance
This is the most important thing to consider. Your robotic pool cleaner might be the best-looking out there. However, if it does not clean well, it is a dud. Look for deep cleaning capabilities, powerful motors, and high-quality brushes.
• Cordless Vs. Wired
Cordless vs. wired is more of a preference. However, a cordless pool cleaner is less of a hassle. The two cost mostly the same. However, you need to deal with tangles with a wired pool cleaner.
On the other hand, cordless cleaners run on batteries. You will need to charge it regularly. But you will not have to deal with your pool cleaner getting tangled.
• Runtime
Runtime will depend on your cleaner’s power and battery size. Ideally, you want to get the one with the most runtime. Large batteries will help your cleaner run longer. Therefore, you will not have to charge it mid-clean.
• Ease of Use
Then we have ease of use. The point of a robotic pool cleaner is to make your life easy. Right? Choose one that is easy to maintain and can be cleaned easily. Look for detachable filters; they make maintenance a breeze.
• Durability
Durability is important. You do not want your robotic pool cleaner to kick the bucket only after a few months. All the cleaners in this roundup of the best robotic pool cleaners under $500 are from reputed brands. Their build quality is excellent. So you do not have anything to worry about.
• Features
Besides the basic cleaning features, additional smart features are the cherry on top. Things like low battery indicators, self-parking, and route planning are features that will improve your experience of using the pool cleaner.
• Brand and Price
Lastly, we have the brand and price. Although every pool cleaner on our list is under $500, some are closer to that cap than others. Depending on what you need, you can save a couple of bucks. However, always get one that meets your needs.
In addition, all the brands we included in this review are highly reputed. They have been in the business for a long time and produce high-quality, durable products. Choose anyone you like, and you will be set.
Are $500 Robotic Pool Cleaners Enough?
You will find robotic pool cleaners in different price ranges. Some high-end models can go over $1,000. However, if you just want something that can get the job done and do it well, you do not need to spend more than $500.
You certainly will not get fancy features like WIFI, but most robotic pool cleaners in the $500 price range will have good cleaning capabilities.
Reputed brands like the ones we mention in this review also make their products last. Therefore, you do not need to worry about durability and longevity. So, you will do just fine with a robotic pool cleaner around the $500 mark.
Do You Need a Robotic Pool Cleaner
If you have a pool, you will need to clean it. Period. There is no getting around that. A dirty pool is very harmful to health. It can cause RWIs, which stands for recreational water illness.
RWIs include diseases like rashes, respiratory infections, diarrhea, and more. A robotic pool cleaner will help you save time and the hassle of cleaning your pool.
You can use the time you save on other important things. Moreover, they are easy to maintain as well. And since you have many options in the market, you can pick a relatively inexpensive one and still get a fantastic user experience.
Benefits of a Robotic Pool Cleaner
Using a robotic pool cleaner for pool maintenance has many benefits compared to manual cleaning. Here are some advantages:
They Help You Save Money
Yes, you read that right. Robotic pool cleaners can help you save money. A pool cleaner might cost a bit upfront. But a quality one will give you much value for its price over time.
It helps you save on power, chemicals, and also water. These pool cleaners do not need the pump to work. So, you can keep the swimming pool pump at very low speeds. They also filter the water themselves and remove dirt and debris.
They Clean Efficiently
These hi-tech cleaners use computer systems to find the best route for cleaning – well, some models do. This means they can clean a pool faster and better than humans.
Moreover, they are also equipped with powerful motors and specialized brushes to help eliminate the stubborn dirt and grime plaguing your pool.
Disadvantages of Robotic Pool Cleaners
Although there are tons of benefits, there are also some downsides. However, these are minor gripes. More importantly, the value you get from a robotic pool cleaner over time greatly outweighs the negatives.
They Can Be Costly
Robotic pool cleaners are expensive. All the ones we mentioned here are under $500, which might be significant for some.
They Can Mess Up
Robotic pool cleaners are robots. And they can sometimes get stuck on their cords or pool drain. You will need to help it out in that case manually. It can be a little annoying, but it is a small nuisance.
Wrapping Up
These 10 are the best robotic pool cleaners under $500 right now. All of them have their strengths and weaknesses. Pick the one that suits your needs, and you will be all set.
Also, remember to keep our buying guide in mind when choosing. It will help you make the right decision based on your specific needs.
