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Robotic vs. Suction Pool Cleaners: Which Is Best for Your Pool?

Aiper

19 Jun 2025 • 4 min read

Picking the right pool cleaner is paramount. It helps keep your pool clean and saves you some time. There are two major types of pool cleaners: suction vs robotic pool cleaners. Both can effectively clean your pool; however, they operate differently.

Aiper is recognized for producing smart robotic pool cleaners. These machines do most of the work for you. While both types of cleaners have their place, robotic pool cleaners often work more effectively. They clean more areas and are easier to use.

This blog will help you learn about both types so you can choose the right one for your pool.

Table of Contents

What Are Suction Pool Cleaners?

A suction pool cleaner hooks up to your pool’s pump and filter. The pump pulls water in, and the cleaner moves around to clean the pool. It sucks up tiny things like sand, dirt, and bugs into the pool filter.

Why do some people choose suction cleaners?

They cost less, usually between $100 and $800.
They are simple to set up.
They work well in small pools.

But there are also some problems:

They need your pool pump to run, which uses more energy.
They often miss walls and waterlines.
They can put extra stress on your pool filter.

If you have a small pool and want a basic option, suction cleaners can do the job. But they may not clean everything.

What Are Robotic Pool Cleaners?

Robotic pool cleaners are powered by electricity. They work on their own and do not connect to your pool’s pump.

They have their own motor and their own filter. These machines move around the pool by themselves and clean floors, walls, and waterlines.

Why people love robotic cleaners:

They clean the whole pool, even the walls
They do not use the pool pump, so they save energy.
Some models have innovative features like app control and timers. They have strong filters that trap even small dirt

A robotic pool cleaner sits by a pool where people are relaxing and enjoying drinks on a sunny day.

Things to keep in mind:

They cost more, usually between $400 and $2,000
You may need to clean the filter or charge the battery sometimes

Robotic cleaners are a smart choice if you want strong, easy, and thorough cleaning.

Key Differences Between Robotic and Suction Pool Cleaners

Here is a simple comparison to help you decide:

Feature	Suction Cleaner	Robotic Cleaner
Cost	$100 to $800	$400 to $2,000
Cleaning Area	Mostly floors	Floors, walls, and waterline
Energy Use	Uses a pool pump (more power)	Uses its own power (less energy)
Maintenance	Can wear out the filter	Has its filter, less strain on the pump
Ease of Use	Needs setup	Often automatic and app-controlled

Why Robotic Pool Cleaners Shine

Robotic cleaners are packed with helpful features. They clean better, save energy, and are easy to use. They work well in many situations:

Large Pools or Odd Shapes: Robotic cleaners can move in straight lines and cover more space
Lots of Dirt: Aiper models can clean leaves, sand, bugs, and even algae
Busy Schedules: You can set a timer or use an app to let the cleaner do the work
Saving on Energy: These cleaners do not need your pool pump, so they use less power

One good example is the Aiper Scuba X1 Pro Max, which features four motors and boasts a runtime of 150 minutes. It is specifically designed for large pools, providing strong cleaning performance with minimal effort.

Considerations for Choosing the Right Cleaner

Here are a few things to think about when picking a pool cleaner:

Pool Size and Shape: Robotic cleaners are better for bigger pools or pools with curves
Your Budget Suction cleaners are cheaper to buy but may cost more in energy
What’s in Your Pool: Robotic cleaners are better for big leaves, sand, and other tough debris
How Much Work You Want to Do: Suction cleaners need more help and wear out the pool filter. Robotic ones require less maintenance, but you still need to clean the filter occasionally.

If you have a small pool and just want something basic, a suction cleaner might be okay. But for a cleaner, faster, and easier option, robotics is usually the better pick.

Conclusion

Both suction and robotic cleaners can keep your pool clean. Suction cleaners are cheaper and simpler. But they do not clean everything, and can wear out your pool system.

Robotic cleaners cost more but work better, save energy, and are easier to use. They clean more parts of your pool and need less help from you.

Want a pool cleaner that saves you time and cleans better? Check out Aiper’s robotic pool cleaners and find the best one for your pool.

Feel free to leave a comment or share this with a friend who has a pool.