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Cordless vs corded robotic pool cleaners
Cordless robots have taken over the Amazon AU bestseller lists. Corded robots still make sense for some pools.
By Domestic Robot · Updated 28 September 2026 · We may earn a commission from links on this page. Disclosure
Quick answer
Most home pools suit a cordless robot: no cord to tangle, easy to drop in, and batteries now run two to five hours. Choose corded for very large or complex pools, or if you'd rather never deal with a battery wearing out.
Side by side
| Cordless | Corded | |
|---|---|---|
| Runtime | Limited by battery, about 2–5 hours on our picks | Runs as long as it's powered |
| Setup | Drop it in; nothing to plug in by the pool | Power supply beside the pool, cord to manage |
| Tangling | None | Cords can twist; a swivel helps |
| Lifting out | Many park at the waterline | Pull it up by the cord |
| Long-term | Battery wears over years | No battery to replace |
| Charging | Hours between runs | None |
When cordless makes sense
- Typical suburban pools up to about 300 m², where one charge covers a full clean.
- You want to drop it in and walk away without setting up a power supply by the pool.
- Above-ground pools, where a cord over the wall is awkward.
Our picks: the WYBOT C2 Vision for most pools and the Beatbot Sora 10 for big ones.
When corded still wins
- Very large or complex pools that would drain a battery.
- Daily cleaning where waiting hours to recharge gets in the way.
- Long ownership, if you'd rather avoid a battery replacement down the track.
Maytronics Dolphin is the best-known corded brand in Australia and is sold through pool shops as well as Amazon AU.
Battery questions to ask
- How long is the battery covered under warranty?
- Can the battery be replaced, and by whom?
- Does it surface when the battery is low, or sink and wait to be fished out?
Common questions
Are cordless pool robots as good as corded?
For most home pools, yes. Cordless models now clean floors, walls and the waterline and run two to five hours. Corded robots still suit very large pools and owners who want unlimited runtime.
How long does a cordless pool robot battery last per charge?
Our picks run from 30 minutes (small above-ground robots) to 300 minutes (Beatbot Sora 10), according to Amazon AU listings checked 28 September 2026.
Can I leave a cordless robot in the pool?
Most makers recommend taking it out after each cycle and storing it out of the sun, which also protects the battery and seals.
Are corded pool robots safe?
They run on low-voltage power from a supply that sits beside the pool. Follow the maker's setup instructions and keep the power supply away from the water's edge.
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