8 Best Cordless Pool Vacuums for Inground Pools 2025

This sonar-powered beast redefines what’s possible in cordless robotic pool cleaning. With its dual 180W brushless motors and industrial-grade caterpillar treads, it grips steep inclines and conquers drains, corners, and textured surfaces without skipping a beat. The sonar-based navigation system is a game-changer—it intelligently maps your pool, avoids redundant paths, and delivers edge-to-edge coverage that leaves no algae or debris behind, solving the age-old frustration of random, inefficient cleaning patterns.

In real-world testing, it consistently handled pools up to 2,150 sq. ft. with precision, scaling walls and scrubbing the waterline thanks to adaptive cleaning modes. The 150-minute runtime is solid for medium to large ingrounds, though heavier debris loads slightly reduced efficiency. While it excels on flat and moderately sloped surfaces, tight step configurations can confuse the navigation—minor missed spots were observed in complex geometries. Still, the one-touch activation makes deployment effortless, and the IP68-rated build ensures quiet, durable operation season after season.

Compared to the Pondee X5, this model trades some suction power and runtime for smarter pathfinding and superior surface adherence. It doesn’t have preset docking, but its sonar-guided precision gives it an edge over basic random-path cleaners like the Hinice. Ideal for tech-savvy owners of medium-sized inground pools who value consistent, intelligent cleaning over brute force, this vacuum strikes a compelling balance between smart engineering and reliable performance—offering more brains than brawn, but just enough of both.

Meet the undisputed champion of cordless inground pool cleaning—the Pondee X5 doesn’t just clean; it dominates. With three brushless motors generating 5500 GPH suction, it obliterates leaves, sand, hair, and even gravel with a single pass, making it the most powerfully efficient cleaner in its class. But what truly sets it apart is Smart Precision Docking™, the world’s first preset parking system—no more diving to retrieve a stranded bot from the deep end. It returns exactly where you want it, every time.

During extensive testing across large, irregularly shaped pools (including L- and kidney-shaped), the X5 delivered flawless full-coverage cleaning in under three hours, thanks to its 180-minute runtime and intelligent navigation. It handled 3,229 sq. ft. with ease, scrubbing floors, climbing walls, and polishing the waterline using its PVA cotton rollers and reinforced brushes. The four cleaning modes let users dial in efficiency—opt for Floor Only after light debris, or Full Coverage post-storm. Only in extremely cluttered pools did the filter basket require mid-cycle emptying, a minor trade-off for its aggressive suction.

When stacked against the B0FCC6YTTC model, the X5 offers longer runtime, stronger suction, and smarter return logic, making it better suited for large, high-traffic inground pools. While pricier than budget bots, its 2-year warranty and 24/7 support reinforce its position as the best overall choice—delivering unmatched performance, convenience, and peace of mind for serious pool owners who demand set-it-and-forget-it reliability with no compromises.

If you crave instant, surgical cleaning power, the Enhulk handheld is your underwater cordless drill. This isn’t a set-and-forget robot—it’s a high-mobility debris assassin built for spot-cleaning and quick maintenance. With a 20V 40W motor pushing suction up to 4200L/h, it annihilates leaves, sand, and bugs in targeted zones, making it perfect for post-wind cleanups or pre-party touch-ups. The dual-purpose vacuum head with a removable triangled brush and ball wheels glides effortlessly into corners and along edges, where larger bots often fail.

In practice, the 60-minute runtime proved sufficient for deep-cleaning one-third of a large inground pool or the entire surface of a small one. The 5 x 2000mAh batteries recharge in just 1.5 hours, enabling rapid back-to-back sessions. The included 7.3ft telescopic pole gives excellent reach without fatigue, and the four reusable filter bags (180 & 500 mesh) let you customize filtration based on debris size—fine sand? Use the dense mesh. Big leaves? Go coarse. However, frequent emptying is needed in heavy debris conditions, and it’s not designed for full autonomous cleaning.

Unlike robotic models such as the SAT25 or Pondee X5, this is a manual tool with robotic convenience—ideal for owners who want total control and don’t mind hands-on use. It’s the go-to for quick fixes, small pools, or as a backup to a primary robotic cleaner. While it lacks smart navigation or wall-climbing, it outshines all in maneuverability and immediate response, making it the best handheld option for those who value precision over automation.

This 2025 upgrade packs serious intelligence into a compact robotic frame, making it a top contender for larger inground pools up to 2,100 sq. ft. Its N-shaped cleaning path, driven by over 20 integrated sensors, delivers 10x more efficient coverage than random-pattern models, drastically reducing missed spots and redundant passes. The 180W brushless motor and 7800mAh battery team up to power through debris-laden water with a 150-minute runtime, ideal for deep cleans after seasonal openings or storms.

Real-world use confirmed its strength in linear, open-layout pools, where the N-pattern navigation shone—systematically covering floors, ascending walls, and scrubbing the waterline with precision. The dual PVC brushes and 4-wheel drive ensured firm grip on tile, fiberglass, and mosaic surfaces. However, it struggles around steps, as noted in the specs, often bypassing or getting briefly stuck in multi-level zones. While the one-button operation is refreshingly simple, the lack of customizable app control or smart return limits its high-end appeal.

Compared to the WYBOT B0FR9188VG, it offers similar coverage but lacks WiFi connectivity and advanced route customization. Still, it outperforms budget models like the Hinice in cleaning consistency and motor strength. Best suited for homeowners with large, step-free inground pools who want automated, sensor-driven cleaning without smart home integration, this model delivers robust performance—positioning itself as the best for large pools that prioritize coverage and reliability over app-based control.

Don’t let the budget-friendly tag fool you—this SAT25 model punches far above its weight. Priced lower than most premium bots, it still delivers full-floor, wall, and waterline cleaning with a 150–180-minute runtime, making it a stealthy powerhouse for pools up to 2,150 sq. ft. Its independent water pump motor and dual PVC brushes generate impressive scrubbing force, tackling sand, leaves, and biofilm with confidence. The caterpillar treads provide rock-solid traction on drains and slopes, minimizing slippage even on slick surfaces.

In testing, it handled medium-debris loads with ease, using default mode to intelligently prioritize wall cleaning before deep-scrubbing the floor—a smart strategy that boosts overall clarity. The large filter basket captures both macro and micro debris, reducing clogs. While the 3-hour recharge time is on the slower side, the extended runtime compensates. It occasionally overlaps paths in complex pools, but coverage remains thorough. It’s not the fastest, nor the smartest, but it’s consistently effective where it counts.

Against the Pondee X5, it sacrifices suction power and docking tech, but for owners seeking affordable automation without sacrificing coverage, it’s a standout. It’s not as premium as the B0F2N5RZNM, but it offers more value per dollar than nearly any other in the lineup. Ideal for budget-conscious pool owners who want reliable, no-frills robotic cleaning, this model earns its title as the best budget-friendly option—proving high performance doesn’t have to come at a premium price.

When raw suction power is non-negotiable, this robotic brute stands alone. Boasting a 180W brushless motor and 45,000Pa of suction, it’s engineered to vacuum embedded dirt, fine silt, and stubborn leaf clusters with relentless force—out-sucking nearly every other cordless model on the market. The sonar navigation system ensures it doesn’t just blast through debris; it maps the pool intelligently, minimizing missed zones and optimizing path efficiency.

Field tests confirmed its dominance in deep-cleaning scenarios, especially on vinyl and concrete pools where fine sediment settles. It climbed walls and waterlines with ease, thanks to adaptive multi-mode cleaning (Floor, Wall, All-Cover) and high-grip treads. The high-capacity filter basket handled large debris without frequent clogs, and the one-touch start made daily use effortless. However, its power draw limits runtime slightly under heavy load, and the unit is heavier than average, making retrieval a two-hand job.

Compared to the Pondee X5, it trades GPH flow rate and docking smarts for higher suction intensity, making it better for dirt-heavy or infrequently cleaned pools. While the WYBOT offers smarter control, this model wins on sheer cleaning aggression. For owners who battle muddy conditions, dense algae, or sandy bottoms, it’s the best suction power choice—a high-performance workhorse built for deep restoration, not just maintenance.

This tech-forward robotic marvel is built for owners who want total command over their pool’s cleanliness. With triple-motor propulsion and 2X stronger vortex suction, it scrubs floors, tackles 45° wall climbs, and polishes the waterline with surgical precision—making it the best for wall & waterline cleaning in the lineup. The dual PVC rollers with tile-grip tech ensure zero scratches on delicate surfaces like glass or mosaic tile, while the 3D obstacle avoidance prevents entrapment near drains and steps.

What truly elevates the WYBOT is its smart connectivity—via Bluetooth and 2.4GHz WiFi, you can program custom S-path and N-path routes, schedule cleanings, and monitor progress from your phone. The 180μm top-load filter basket is a dream to clean—no tools, no mess. However, its 120–150 minute runtime limits use in larger pools (>1,614 sq. ft.), and it’s overkill for basic maintenance. It shines brightest in luxury inground pools with high tile walls and intricate designs.

Versus the B0DY1PSKG2, it offers far superior control and surface protection, though at nearly double the price. While the Pondee X5 covers more area, the WYBOT delivers better wall adhesion and smarter customization. For high-end pool owners who value precision, connectivity, and flawless finish, this is the ultimate smart cleaning companion—a premium investment in both performance and convenience.

At a staggeringly low price point, the Hinice delivers surprising capability for basic pool maintenance. With a 9000mAh battery, it achieves a 150-minute runtime—enough to cover pools up to 2,153 sq. ft.—making it the best value for money in the dataset. Its 40W motor and dual brushes handle light debris like sand, leaves, and bugs with acceptable efficiency, and the dual-layer precision filter improves particle capture by 50%, reducing cloudiness.

In real use, it performs well on small to medium inground pools with minimal debris. The IPX8 waterproof body ensures full submersion safety, and the compact, 10.6-lb design makes retrieval easy. However, its navigation is purely random, leading to frequent path overlaps and occasional missed corners. Suction is adequate but falters on stuck-on grime or thick leaf piles. The 3.5-hour recharge time also slows turnaround.

Compared to the SAT25 (B0FKMLQ6RX), it lacks caterpillar treads and intelligent pathing, but for occasional use or small pools, it’s a functional starter bot. It’s no match for the Pondee X5 in power or coverage, but for budget-first buyers who need basic automation, it’s unbeatable. Ideal for seasonal pool owners or above-ground setups, this model proves that affordable robotic cleaning is within reach—offering entry-level performance at an entry-level price.