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 Kokido Rechargeable Heavy Duty Pool Leaf Vacuum Cleaner is a strong choice if you need a cordless handheld device for cleaning larger leaves and debris from both inground and above-ground pools. Its commercial-grade suction power moves water at 62 gallons per minute, making debris removal fast and efficient, especially during pool opening or closing. The vacuum runs up to 75 minutes on a single charge, which is ample for most pool sizes, and the 5-hour charging time is reasonable.

It comes with two filter bags—a standard 250µ mesh for bigger debris and a finer 75µ mesh for sand and smaller particles—though it’s not designed to handle very tiny particles like algae or bits smaller than 7 inches. The large 1.72-gallon capacity means you won’t need to empty it frequently, which adds convenience. At nearly 7 pounds, it’s a bit on the heavier side, but the cordless design and ergonomic build help with maneuverability and ease of use. Safety features like waterproofing and automatic shut-off when out of water provide peace of mind.

It’s compatible with standard telescopic poles to extend reach, though these are not included. It excels at removing leaves, hair, and common pool debris but is less suited for pools with very fine sediment or very large debris. This vacuum is well-suited for pool owners who want a reliable, rechargeable, and powerful handheld cleaner primarily focused on standard leaves and moderate debris, with a good balance of filtration and battery life.