10 Best Handheld Pool Cleaner 2025 in the United States

The ENHULK T403 Handheld Rechargeable Pool Cleaner is a battery-powered pool vacuum designed for above-ground pools, in-ground pools, spas, and hot tubs. Its powerful suction can handle up to 18.5 gallons per minute, making it efficient in picking up debris such as leaves, twigs, and dirt. However, it is not suitable for algae removal. The vacuum offers versatility with two different brush heads and a telescopic pole that extends from 35.8 to 87.5 inches, helping you reach tricky areas like stairs and corners easily.

Weighing just 6.38 pounds, it is lightweight and easy to handle, with a simple operation that doesn't require tools for assembly. The rechargeable lithium battery provides up to 60 minutes of run time and fully recharges in 1.5 hours, ensuring minimal downtime between uses. One of its standout features is the cordless design, eliminating the hassle of dealing with cords and hoses.

On the downside, users may find its battery life still somewhat limited for cleaning larger pools in one session, and some might expect additional filter options to better handle fine particles like sand. Nonetheless, this pool cleaner is a reliable choice for those needing a convenient and effective solution for maintaining their pool's cleanliness.

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.