Top 5 Handheld Pool Vacuums for Above-Ground Pools

Above ground pools require consistent maintenance to stay crystal clear - especially in summer. For quick, targeted cleaning, handheld vacuums are a go-to solution. We’ve ranked the top 5 models based on performance, price, battery life, filtration power, and user feedback. Lets take a look at which above ground pool vacuums made our top 5 list.

POOL BLASTER Max CG Cordless Pool Vacuum

• Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5 from 11,000+ reviews)

• Price Range: $$$

• Runtime: Up to 60 minutes

• Debris Handling: XL debris chamber; strong suction for leaves, sand, and algae

• Highlights:

  • Cordless, battery-powered with high-flow Water Tech motor

  • Ideal for deep cleaning large above-ground pools

  • Includes a reusable multi-layer filter bag

  • Mounts to standard telescopic poles

    
    

🔹 Why It's # 1: Exceptional cleaning power, long battery life, and large debris capacity make it ideal for thorough cleanups!

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Intex Handheld Rechargeable Vacuum for Above-Ground Pools

• Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5 from 13,500+ reviews)

• Price Range: $$

• Runtime: Up to 50 minutes

• Debris Handling: 2 interchangeable brush heads; basic filter screen

• Highlights:

  • Designed specifically for Intex Easy Set and Frame Pools

  • Includes a USB charging cable and telescoping pole

  • IPX8 waterproof switch

  • Shuts off automatically when removed from water

    
    

🔹 Why It’s Great: Reliable, affordable choice for small to mid-sized above-ground pools. Ideal for Intex pool owners.

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POOL BLASTER Catfish Ultra

• Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.1/5 from 14,500+ reviews)

• Price Range: $$

• Runtime: ~45 minutes

• Debris Handling: Larger mouth than base Catfish model; strong suction

• Highlights:

  • Cordless and compact

  • Easy push-button operation

  • Good for both spot cleaning and full floor coverage

  • Reusable filter bag for sand, dirt, and leaves

    
    

🔹 Why It Ranks High: Budget-friendly yet delivers better-than-expected suction and reliability.

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AIPER Handheld Rechargeable Pool Vacuum

• Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.1/5 from 1,500+ reviews)

• Price Range: $$

• Runtime: 60 minutes

• Debris Handling: Mesh filter + fine dirt filter

• Highlights:

  • Strong suction with double filter system

  • Detachable head for spot vs. wide-area cleaning

  • Rechargeable via USB; lightweight build

  • Fits most standard poles

    
    

🔹 Why It’s Popular: Versatile vacuum with good debris filtration—perfect for both leaves and fine sand.

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Kokido EV05CBX Telsa 5 Handheld Vacuum

• Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.1/5 from 1,000+ reviews)

• Price Range: $

• Runtime: ~30 minutes

• Debris Handling: Smaller debris canister

• Highlights:

  • Budget handheld model

  • Includes clip-on brush for walls/floors

  • Ideal for quick spot cleaning

  • USB rechargeable

    
    

🔹 Why It Made the List: Best for smaller pools and spas. Compact, lightweight, and easy to maneuver.

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Rather a robotic pool vacuum does the work for you? Check out our Top 5 Robotic Pool Vacuums to see which made the list!