Wired or wireless pool cleaner: which one is right for you?
The pool robot has become an indispensable ally for enjoying a pool that is always clean, without spending hours on it. But faced with the growing range on offer, one question always comes up: is it better to choose a wired or wireless pool robot? While the two technologies have the same objective, their operation, ease of use and performance differ. In this article, we will compare these two types of robots in detail to help you determine which one is best suited to your use, the configuration of your pool and your maintenance habits.
The wired pool robot: powerful, but restrictive
The wired robot is still the most common today. Connected to an external power supply by a long cable, it operates at low voltage and generally offers constant power. Ideal for large swimming pools or prolonged cleaning, it can run cycles of several hours without any drop in performance. Brands such as Dolphin Maytronics, Zodiac and Hayward offer models capable of cleaning the bottom, walls and waterline with formidable precision. But this efficiency comes at a price: that of the cord. The cable can get tangled, hinder the robot's movements or cause problems when it comes to storage. It is often necessary to unwind, monitor and reposition the whole thing to avoid knots and twists. In use, this constant management becomes tiresome for many users, especially in complex or regularly frequented swimming pools.The wireless robot: freedom of movement and ease of use
Faced with the limitations of wired models, wireless models have revolutionised the user experience. Powered by a lithium-ion battery, they are completely autonomous and operate without cables or electrical connections. The user places it in the water, the robot starts automatically and carries out its cycle freely. The BEATBOT AquaSense 2 Ultra is a good example of this generation of intelligent robots: optimised navigation, powerful suction, high-capacity filter and comfortable autonomy to cover most pools. The comfort is incomparable: no wires to handle, no need for a power outlet, and an appliance that is easy to store away after each use. The only downside? The battery life remains limited to 60 to 120 minutes depending on the model, which may be just enough for very large swimming pools. However, with regular use, these robots offer smooth, fast maintenance and an unrivalled level of practicality. Cleaning performance: the gap is closing In the past, wired robots largely dominated in terms of suction power and coverage. But the latest wireless models, such as those offered by BEATBOT, Aiper and BWT, are gradually closing the gap. They feature rotating brushes, high-precision filters and gyroscopic sensors to optimise trajectories. Their cycles are now intelligent, and they provide complete coverage, including on vertical walls. Some even manage to clean the waterline effectively, as do high-end wired models. For a medium-sized pool (up to 10x5 m), performance is now equivalent, provided you choose a good quality model. For very large swimming pools or pools with complex geometries, a high-end wired robot still has a slight advantage in terms of cycle time and non-stop cleaning capacity. On this point, there is no contest. The cordless robot completely transforms the cleaning routine. No more need to pull out a 15-metre cable, roll it up neatly or make sure you don't step on it. The robot recharges on its base, docks in the water in 5 seconds, and takes care of the rest. It is also lighter and more compact, making it easier to transport and handle. For users who want quick, discreet and effortless maintenance, the wireless is a game changer. Some BEATBOT models, such as the AquaSense 2 Pro, can even be controlled via a mobile app, to start a cycle remotely, choose the duration or consult the cleaning history. With regular use, especially in summer, the difference in comfort quickly becomes obvious.Budget and profitability: a balancing act
In terms of price, wireless robots are often more expensive to buy, especially the top-of-the-range models with long-lasting batteries. A good wired model starts at around €500, while a high-performance wireless robot is more likely to cost around €800 to €1,200. However, this difference is quickly amortised if you take into account the comfort of use, the reduction in maintenance (no cable to replace), and the lifespan of current batteries (more than 3 years on average). On the other hand, wired robots are still of interest to users who are looking for a power/price ratio without worrying about the constraint of the cable. It is therefore a personal trade-off between initial budget, frequency of use and expectations in terms of practicality.Which type of robot for which type of pool?
The choice of robot depends heavily on the type of pool. For a small or medium-sized pool (up to 40 m²), the wireless model is clearly recommended: less bulky, more practical and with ample battery life. For a large pool (more than 10 m), with vertical walls, stairs or complex shapes, a powerful wired robot is still a safe bet... as long as you don't mind dealing with the cable. For those who want to automate all maintenance, including the surface, a floating skimmer robot such as the iSkim Ultra from BEATBOT is an excellent complementary solution. It captures floating debris before it sinks, reducing the workload of the main robot and filtration. The ideal? A combo of a wireless robot for the bottom + smart skimmer for the surface = complete maintenance and zero stress.The right robot is the one that adapts to you
Wired or wireless, each pool robot has its advantages. The wired robot is appealing because of its constant power and extended cycles. The wireless model radically transforms the user experience by removing all technical constraints. If you are looking for ease of use, quick maintenance and cutting-edge technology, models such as the BEATBOT AquaSense 2 Ultra have everything to win you over. But if your priority is robustness and power for a large pool, a well-chosen wired model will do the job perfectly. The most important thing is to choose a robot that is consistent with your real needs, your pool, and your desire to automate maintenance. Because at the end of the day, a well-adapted robot means a pool that is always clean... and more time to enjoy it.Published on 07/04/2025
