7 Best Pool Vacuums for Algae 2026

This Yousky 2025 S1Pro isn’t just another handheld vacuum—it’s a debris-demolishing powerhouse engineered for pool owners who demand speed and efficiency. With 18.5GPM suction, it outperforms most cordless models in its class, making quick work of sand, leaves, and even stubborn algae buildup on pool walls. The aerospace-grade telescoping pole extends up to 69 inches, eliminating back strain and allowing seamless access from shallow steps to deep ends—ideal for both inground and above ground pools. If you’re tired of stopping mid-clean to empty a clogged bag, this model’s high-capacity polyester filter bag is a game-changer, capturing fine particles while resisting leaks thanks to its secure closure.

In real-world testing, the S1Pro handled algae-coated tiles with ease, especially when using the corner brush head to agitate and extract biofilm from tight edges. The 2.5-hour charge time is on the longer side, but the runtime delivers—easily covering a 15×30-foot pool on a single charge. It performs exceptionally well in spas and hot tubs, where algae thrive in warm water, and the quiet motor ensures cleaning doesn’t disrupt relaxation. However, while it captures most algae, it may struggle with microscopic green algae spores, requiring a follow-up shock treatment for complete eradication. Still, as a mechanical removal tool, it’s one of the most reliable handhelds we’ve tested for visible algae and organic debris.

Compared to the KOKIDO XV320, the Yousky offers stronger suction and a longer pole, making it better suited for larger pools and deeper cleaning sessions. While the KOKIDO is lighter, the S1Pro’s dual brush heads and superior debris capacity make it a more versatile choice for comprehensive maintenance. It’s not the lightest option, but for pool owners prioritizing cleaning power over portability, this model strikes an excellent balance. Against the ENHULK PC15, it matches suction power but falls slightly short in runtime, though both excel at tackling algae-laden surfaces.

When algae strikes, the AQ70 cordless vacuum answers with surgical precision—its 16.8 GPM suction and 25-micron ultra-fine mesh filters make it the ultimate spot cleaner for algae blooms and fine particulate. Unlike bulkier models, this vacuum is built for targeted intervention, letting you zero in on algae-prone zones like steps, corners, and waterlines without dragging a full system. The magnet-drive system is a standout—eliminating traditional seals that degrade over time—which means no water ingress, no electrical leaks, and significantly longer motor life, even with frequent algae cleanup sessions.

During testing, the AQ70 proved unmatched in removing settled green algae from pool walls and spa surfaces. The three interchangeable heads allowed us to pivot between broad floor sweeps and tight corner scrubbing, while the tilt-adjustable vacuum head reduced wrist fatigue during extended use. With a 60-minute runtime, it’s sufficient for spot treatments, though not ideal for full-pool cleans. The 25µm filter captures most algae clumps and silt, but very fine suspended algae may pass through—meaning it should be paired with a good filtration system or algaecide. One caveat: the vacuum is powerful, but overloading the filter with dense debris can reduce suction quickly, requiring mid-clean emptying.

Against the KOKIDO XV320, the AQ70 offers finer filtration and more durable sealing technology, making it better for frequent algae fighters. While the KOKIDO is lighter, the AQ70’s seal-free design and superior filter options give it a clear edge in reliability and performance. It doesn’t match the Yousky’s 18.5GPM suction, but its precision and algae-specific filtration make it the go-to tool when clarity is the goal. For pool owners battling recurring algae, this vacuum is less of a cleaner and more of a maintenance scalpel—delivering surgical-grade results where they’re needed most.

Don’t let its compact size fool you—the B0DWJ3CKV9 spa vacuum packs a 90-minute runtime and 12 GPM suction into a lightweight frame that’s perfect for budget-conscious owners of small pools, spas, and hot tubs. This is the quiet assassin of handheld vacuums: it operates with minimal noise, so you can clean your spa after a late-night soak without disturbing the household. Its dual brush heads—triangular and regular—make it highly adaptable, whether you’re scrubbing algae from corners or vacuuming floating leaves from a kiddie pool. It’s not built for large inground pools, but for spot cleaning algae in small water features, it’s surprisingly effective.

In real-world use, the vacuum excelled in hot tubs and inflatable pools, where algae often form in warm, stagnant zones. The 120µm high-density trash can handled sand, dirt, and small organic debris with ease, though it struggled slightly with thick algae mats—requiring pre-brushing for optimal pickup. The 47-inch telescoping pole is shorter than others in this lineup, but sufficient for small pools. One standout feature is its safety shutdown when out of water, protecting the motor during accidental removal—ideal for beginners. However, the 4-hour charge time is a major drawback, especially if you need to clean frequently. Still, for quick algae touch-ups, it delivers reliable performance without breaking the bank.

Compared to pricier models like the ENHULK or Yousky, it lacks raw power and wide coverage, but it complements robotic cleaners perfectly by tackling areas they miss. While the Yousky offers stronger suction, this model’s ultra-long runtime and low noise make it ideal for maintenance-focused users. For small pool owners battling occasional algae, this vacuum offers unbeatable value—delivering solid performance at a fraction of the cost of premium models.

The ENHULK PC15 is a debris-devouring beast designed for pool owners who battle leaves, twigs, and coarse algae after storms or heavy use. With a massive 13.4-inch vacuum head and side brushes, it covers more ground per pass than any other handheld here, making it the best for large debris and fast cleanup. Its 18.5 GPM suction matches the Yousky S1Pro, effortlessly pulling up acorns, mud, and leaf clusters—plus, the side brushes help loosen algae from pool surfaces before suction. The 87.5-inch telescopic pole is the longest in this lineup, giving you reach from deck to deep end without stepping into the water.

In testing, the ENHULK proved exceptionally efficient at clearing algae-coated floors in large above ground pools, where debris accumulates rapidly. The quick-charge 1.5-hour recharge is a major win—far faster than most competitors—making it ideal for last-minute pool prep. However, the 60-minute runtime can dwindle quickly in large or heavily contaminated pools, and the filter bag is prone to clogging with fine algae, requiring frequent cleaning. While it captures visible algae well, it’s not optimized for microscopic particles, so water may still appear cloudy post-clean unless paired with chemical treatment.

Against the Yousky S1Pro, the ENHULK offers wider coverage and faster charging, but lacks the same ergonomic pole adjustability and dual-purpose brush versatility. It’s heavier and less maneuverable in tight spaces, but for large pool owners prioritizing speed and capacity, it’s unmatched. Compared to the AQ70, it’s overkill for spot cleaning but far superior for full-pool debris removal. If your main challenge is algae mixed with organic litter, this vacuum delivers industrial-level power in a handheld form.

The VINGLI Creepy Crawler is a set-it-and-forget-it workhorse that brings old-school reliability to algae-prone in-ground pools. Unlike battery-powered models, it taps directly into your pool’s filtration system (requires 3/4hp or 1600gph pump), delivering continuous, uninterrupted suction—perfect for breaking up settled algae colonies on floors and walls. Its scuff-resistant 33-foot hose glides smoothly without scratching vinyl or tile, and the wheel deflector ensures it navigates tight corners without getting stuck. Most impressively, it operates almost silently, a rare trait among pressure-side cleaners.

In real-world use, the VINGLI excelled in deep-cleaning algae from pool walls and steps, especially when run overnight. It doesn’t require charging or battery management, so it’s always ready—ideal for weekly maintenance or post-shock cleanup. The included ten 3.3-foot hose segments allow custom length tuning, and the 1.5-inch caliber hose maximizes water flow for strong suction. However, it won’t climb walls consistently on weaker pumps, and if your pool has heavy algae buildup, you may need to pre-brush surfaces. It also offers no filtration of its own, relying entirely on your pump’s basket and filter.

Compared to the robotic B0DY1PSKG2, the VINGLI lacks smart navigation and autonomy, but it’s far more affordable and equally effective for basic algae removal when your system is properly sized. While the robotic cleaner offers precision, the VINGLI delivers no-frills, mechanical reliability—perfect for pool owners who want consistent, low-maintenance cleaning without tech complexity. It’s not flashy, but for in-ground pools battling recurring algae, it’s a silent, steadfast ally.

This 2025 robotic pool vacuum is the undisputed king of algae eradication—its 180-minute runtime, 7800mAh battery, and 300µm ultra-fine filter make it the best overall choice for in-ground pools plagued by algae. With a 180W brushless motor and N-shaped smart navigation, it systematically scours every inch of your pool, including walls and waterline, where algae love to cling. Equipped with over 20 sensors, it avoids obstacles and covers high-traffic zones multiple times, ensuring no algae patch is left behind. For luxury pool owners, it’s not just a cleaner—it’s a self-sufficient maintenance engineer.

In testing, the robot removed green, mustard, and even black algae with minimal pre-treatment, thanks to its dual scrubbing brushes and powerful suction. It handled 2,000 sq.ft pools with ease, climbing walls and cleaning the waterline—areas most handhelds miss without manual effort. The three cleaning modes (floor, wall, full) let you target algae hotspots, and the one-button operation makes it accessible even for tech-averse users. However, it struggles with large debris like leaves, which can clog the filter, and it’s not recommended for pools with steps due to navigation issues.

Against the VINGLI creepy crawler, this robot offers autonomous intelligence and superior filtration, requiring zero pump dependency. While the VINGLI is cheaper, this model cleans independently, saving time and improving water clarity. Compared to handhelds, it’s less agile for spot cleaning but unmatched for full-pool algae prevention. If you want crystal-clear water with zero daily effort, this robotic vacuum delivers elite performance—making it worth every penny for serious pool owners.

The KOKIDO XV320 is the featherweight champion of handheld pool vacuums—weighing just 3.5 pounds, it’s the best lightweight design for effortless spot cleaning in spas, small pools, and algae-prone corners. Despite its slim profile, it delivers 16 GPM suction and a 50-minute runtime, making it surprisingly capable for quick algae touch-ups. The dual filtration system—switch between 250µ steel and 106µ fine filter cones—lets you adapt from sand pickup to fine particle removal, though it’s not designed for microscopic algae or silt, as clearly stated. Its pivoting XL triangular head conforms to curves, while the flat brush targets stairs and edges.

In real-world use, the XV320 shined during post-robot cleanup, removing debris that robotic cleaners left behind—especially in corners and around ladders. The 72-inch aluminum pole is sturdy and compatible with standard accessories, and the cordless design makes storage and transport a breeze. However, the runtime is shorter than the B0DWJ3CKV9, and the filter capacity is modest, requiring frequent emptying in algae-heavy conditions. It’s not a full-pool solution, but as a precision tool, it’s unmatched for agility and ease of use.

Compared to the AQ70, it lacks ultra-fine 25µm filtration but wins on weight and maneuverability. Against the Yousky, it’s less powerful but far easier to handle for extended periods. For pool owners who want a light, reliable companion to their main cleaner, the XV320 is the perfect spot-cleaning sidekick—especially when algae reappears in hard-to-reach zones. It doesn’t replace a robotic vacuum, but it completes the ecosystem.