10 Best Handheld Pool Cleaner 2025 in the United States

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wi-Fi excels as a pool cleaner designed for in-ground pools up to 50 feet long. Its AC power source means you don’t have to worry about battery life, and it delivers consistent suction power throughout its operation. The wall-climbing feature ensures thorough cleaning of both the pool floor and walls, regardless of the pool's shape or surface type.

The easy-to-access top-load filter basket simplifies debris removal and maintenance, enhancing your pool cleaning experience. However, it may not be the lightest option at 35.4 pounds, which could be a drawback for some users when handling the device out of water. Despite this, its plug-and-play efficiency and Wi-Fi connectivity make scheduling cleanings and operating the vacuum effortless.

The device also stands out with a legacy of over 40 years in the industry. It doesn’t require assembly, and the app-controlled feature adds a modern touch to pool maintenance. This cleaner is ideal for those looking for a reliable, automatic solution with minimal manual intervention.

The Dolphin Nautilus CC is a robotic pool vacuum designed to make pool cleaning easier and more thorough. It uses corded electric power, meaning there is no need to worry about battery life or charging, though an outlet needs to be nearby. Weighing around 15 pounds, it is light enough to handle easily when placing it in or removing it from your pool. Its top-load filter basket is simple to remove and clean, helping maintain clear water with minimal hassle.

A standout feature is the active scrubbing brush that climbs pool walls and cleans various surfaces gently but effectively. This allows it to reach spots many cleaners miss, although it does not clean the waterline area where grime often builds up. The plug-and-play setup is straightforward — just plug it in, place it in your pool, and it runs for about two hours to clean pools up to 33 feet long.

It performs well on different surfaces and offers solid suction power for debris removal, but being corded limits mobility compared to battery-powered handheld cleaners. Additionally, as a robotic vacuum rather than a manual handheld device, it may not suit those wanting full control during cleaning. Its solid build and the brand’s long history in pool care add reliability and durability. This product is ideal for pool owners who prefer set-it-and-forget-it cleaning with strong scrubbing action, especially for in-ground or above-ground pools within its size range, offering good value and ease of maintenance.

The Dolphin Proteus DX3 is a corded robotic pool vacuum designed for in-ground pools up to 33 feet long. Its strong selling point is the ability to climb pool walls and scrub surfaces actively, which means it cleans thoroughly without requiring much manual effort. The top-load filter basket is easy to access and maintain, helping keep your pool water clear by trapping debris efficiently.

Weighing around 15 pounds, it is portable enough to handle but not ultra-light, which is typical for robotic cleaners with solid build quality. The plug-and-play operation makes setup simple—just plug it in and let it run for about two hours to clean your pool. Since it’s corded, there is no need to worry about battery life or charging, but an accessible power outlet nearby is necessary.

Equipped with basic remote control for convenience, it does not include many attachments, focusing mainly on standard vacuuming and scrubbing. The cleaner is gentle on pool surfaces yet effective against dirt, making it a suitable option for pool owners seeking a mostly hands-off cleaning solution. If a cordless model or specialized cleaning tools are required, this unit may not be the best fit. Its price and features reflect Dolphin’s long-standing reputation for durability and performance in robotic pool cleaners.