Beatbot iSkim Ultra vs Aiper: comparison of surface skimmers

Smart technology and navigation

The iSkim Ultra from Beatbot immediately stands out for its ultra-smart navigation. It features real AI with more than 20 high-precision sensors (including multiple ultrasonic sensors and a 6-axis gyroscope) coupled with advanced algorithms. This allows it to scan the surface of the pool, anticipate obstacles and optimise its cleaning route. Its stable movement is comparable to that of an aquatic drone: even with waves or wind, it stays on course without drifting. As a result, the iSkim Ultra methodically covers every corner of the pool without getting stuck, thanks especially to its anti-collision sensors and smart navigation system. In contrast, the Aiper surface skimmer also offers efficient but simpler autonomous navigation. It uses ultrasonic sensors to detect walls and avoid obstacles, ensuring full coverage of the pool, whatever its shape. The iSkim Ultra dynamically adapts to the pool contours thanks to its on-board intelligence, while the Aiper, with its random movement, eventually covers rounded or irregular areas by chance. Its operation often follows a random or zigzag pattern, changing direction when encountering an edge. Unlike the optimised algorithm of the iSkim Ultra, the Aiper relies more on duration to eventually cover all areas, which may lead to repeated passes.

This is still an effective way to collect debris, although the coverage is slightly less optimised than with the iSkim Ultra. The Aiper model does include anti-blocking features, such as floats or bumpers to prevent the robot from getting stuck against steps or corners. Beatbot presents its iSkim Ultra as the world's first smart robotic pool cleaner, a claim supported by its navigation performance. In summary, when it comes to navigation smartness, Beatbot is one step ahead of Aiper.

Cleaning power and efficiency

The Beatbot iSkim Ultra outperforms its competitor in suction power and cleaning results. Its innovative 7-motor design delivers impressive suction and propulsion. It has two rotating side brushes that sweep the edges and corners to remove leaves and debris, while a large 26.5 cm front brush picks up larger particles in a single pass. Whether it's fine particles, insects or large leaves, the iSkim Ultra leaves nothing on the surface. It quickly covers the entire water surface and efficiently directs waste to its internal filter, which has an exceptional capacity of about 9 litres, so the robot can collect hundreds of leaves before needing to be emptied. The pool water comes out crystal clear afterwards, almost as if you had netted it yourself but without any effort.

The Aiper surface skimmer offers satisfactory suction power for routine maintenance. Its motor sucks up most common debris and stores it in a basket of about 5 litres. In pools that do not get very dirty, it performs almost as well as the iSkim Ultra. However, lacking active brushes, it may miss debris stuck along walls or in tight corners. Such debris will eventually be collected once dislodged, but the Aiper relies on water movement or time to achieve this. Moreover, if a lot of debris falls into the pool (for example, after a storm), its basket fills up more quickly, requiring emptying to maintain performance. The iSkim Ultra, with its significantly larger capacity, continues cleaning without interruption where the Aiper will need to pause. Overall, in terms of cleaning efficiency, the iSkim Ultra delivers a spotless pool faster, while the Aiper provides decent but slightly less thorough cleaning.

Autonomy and recharging modes

The iSkim Ultra by Beatbot is designed to operate continuously, day and night, thanks to its dual power system. It features a large 24W solar panel on its back that automatically recharges its 10,000mAh internal battery during the day. This solar energy allows it to operate until the end of the night, continuing its patrol even after sunset. Under normal conditions, the iSkim Ultra ensures 24-hour cleaning without human intervention. If the sun fails for several days, a wireless magnetic recharge option is available, allowing conventional recharging if needed. This backup ensures continuous operation in all seasons, even during prolonged cloudy periods. The Aiper skimmer also offers solid autonomy, though more limited; its integrated solar panel recharges a smaller battery, allowing operation for up to 10 to 12 hours in full cleaning mode, which is sufficient for daily maintenance during sunny days. However, once night falls or the battery depletes, it must stop and recharge. Additionally, the Aiper can be recharged via a mains connection using the provided cable. In summary, the Aiper performs effective daily cleaning during sunny periods but is not designed for continuous night-time operation, whereas the iSkim Ultra stands out for its unparalleled endurance thanks to its ingenious solar-plus-battery system.

Ease of use and features

Beyond technical performance, the iSkim Ultra is designed for a premium user experience. It is very easy to set up: simply place it on the water and press the start button, and it takes care of the rest. With advanced Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity, it can be controlled and monitored remotely via the Beatbot mobile app, which provides a comprehensive dashboard for remote start/programming, notifications regarding the robot's status, and even integrated voice alerts (for instance, when the bin is full or the battery is low). Automatic docking is another standout feature: at the end of its cycle or on command, the robot automatically parks at the poolside for easy retrieval. No more fishing the device out with a pole – the iSkim Ultra makes itself available with a click. The Aiper skimmer is also simple to use and accessible; it is wireless, starts working automatically upon activation, and is controllable via a dedicated Aiper app that offers manual steering. Although it lacks automatic docking, the Aiper’s compact design and anti-grounding floats facilitate easy handling and minimal intervention during cleaning. Overall, while the iSkim Ultra offers a more refined and assisted user experience, the Aiper provides a simple and efficient solution.

Care and maintenance

One advantage of the iSkim Ultra is its design aimed at minimising maintenance. Its XXL filter basket, with a capacity of 9 litres, can hold a large amount of debris, reducing how often it must be emptied. When full, a simple press ejects the basket for easy emptying. Cleaning the filter only takes seconds with a jet of water. The side brushes and front roller are removable so you can easily clear any entangled debris. Thanks to its anti-tangle design, such issues are rare. In terms of durability, Beatbot has chosen robust materials: the ASA plastic frame resists UV rays, chemicals, and minor impacts, so the robot can remain in the water for days without premature wear. Daily maintenance is limited to emptying the basket when necessary and occasionally rinsing the brushes and solar panel. Similarly, the Aiper skimmer requires minimal maintenance: its approximately 5-litre basket is easy to remove and empty, and its filter can simply be rinsed with clean water. However, it is advisable to empty it regularly—ideally after each day’s use—to ensure optimal performance. In short, both devices are designed to ease maintenance, with the iSkim Ultra having the advantage of a larger basket.

Price and value for money

It is no surprise that the iSkim Ultra by Beatbot is in the premium price category. For discerning pool owners with large pools and abundant debris, the iSkim Ultra is worth its price due to its unrivalled efficiency, advanced features, and robust design, which translate to less manual effort, consistently cleaner water, and increased longevity. In the long term, investing in high-end equipment can pay off by avoiding frequent maintenance services or early replacement of less durable devices. Additionally, the comfort offered by Beatbot (smart control, 24/7 autonomy) is unmatched—a significant advantage for those who value peace of mind.

Conversely, the Aiper skimmer may suffice if your pool does not accumulate excessive debris and you are willing to perform maintenance more frequently (emptying the basket more often, restarting the robot daily). This economical model provides a very respectable cleaning service, particularly suitable for medium-sized pools or tight budgets. Ultimately, the iSkim Ultra is the 'luxury' choice for maximum performance, while the Aiper is the 'smart' economical option to keep a pool clean without breaking the bank. In any case, these two devices free you from the chore of skimming and allow you to enjoy your pool with complete peace of mind.