A robotic cleaner uses its own motor and filter basket, largely independent of the pool pump. A suction cleaner connects to the pool's circulation system and sends collected material toward the pool filter or an added leaf canister.
How they move water
A robotic cleaner uses its own motor and filter basket, largely independent of the pool pump. A suction cleaner connects to the pool's circulation system and sends collected material toward the pool filter or an added leaf canister.
Where robots win
Robots can provide active brushing, planned paths, fine filtration and targeted floor or wall modes without consuming the pool pump's suction. They are easy to remove between cycles but add a separate device to charge, rinse and store.
Where suction wins
Suction cleaners can be mechanically simple and remain connected for routine movement, depending on the system. Their results are tied to pump flow, hose setup and the pool filter, and they may add cleaning load to that equipment.
Make the decision
Choose a robot when independent filtration, scrubbing and scheduled discrete cycles matter most. Consider suction when your existing circulation system is well matched, simplicity matters and you accept hoses in the pool.
Your next step
Shortlist the models that fit your pool, then compare exact model-year specifications and current manufacturer terms before ordering.