You will agree with me that Polaris has dominated the pool cleaning market. While the brand is famous for suction side pool cleaners, (Polaris 280, 360, 380 and 3900 Sport) it also leaves a mark in the pool cleaners industry.
The brand has several models of robotic pool cleaners (Polaris 9350 vs. 9450 vs. 9550 vs. 9650iQ).
Even though you might have made the right decision to buy from Zodiac, settling on a single model might be a challenge.
In this review, we compared all the Polaris robotic pool cleaner on the market so if you are not sure of which model to buy, you came to the right place.
To start, we will have an overview of all the models before embarking on the main business of the day; comparing all the important features of these Polaris pool cleaners.
Polaris 9350 vs 9450 vs 9550 vs 9650iQ
Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Polaris 9350 Sport – a Basic Robotic Pool Cleaner
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It comes with Vortex vacuum technology making it powerful than the Polaris 8050 and 7240 that use Cyclonic vacuuming technology.
The Polaris 9350 has a pleated brush system and a 2WD system.
It can clean the pool floor and wall only.
With this cleaner, you get the best value for money as it comes with most standard Polaris robotic pool vacuum features including:
- Easy Lift
- a Premium Caddy
- ActivMotion technology
Polaris 9450 – Robotic In-Ground Swimming Pool Cleaner Vacuum
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The Polaris 9450 also comes with 4WD while the previous model has 2WD systems.
The cable is just the same as that in 9350, but this one has tangle reducing swivel technology.
These three are the biggest differences between Polaris 9350 vs. 9450.
If you are ready to sacrifice remote control, dirty canister indicator, waterline cleaning, and a few feet of cable for a few hundred bucks, this is a good option.
Polaris 9550 Sport Automatic Pool Cleaner
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It is also the first to have a dirty canister indicator.
The Polaris 9550 also comes with a motion-sensing remote that can be used near the pool.
The most significant addition, however, is the ability to clean up to the waterline, something the Polaris 9450 can’t do.
This robot vacuum offers the best value for money as it is cheaper and offers remote operation as well.
It is only that you have to be near the pool and it won’t connect to other devices.
Polaris 9650iQ Sport – Connect to Home Wi-Fi for Access
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But the price is justified as it comes with Wi-Fi for smart connectivity.
If you are a smart home enthusiast or you want remote control from your office or any other far place from your pool.
This is the real deal.
This is the biggest difference between Polaris 9550 vs. 9650iq otherwise every other thing remains intact.
If you are not interested in remote operation, it would be a clever idea to buy the Polaris 9550 as it is cheaper.
Polaris 9350 vs 9450 vs 9550 vs 9650iQ: Comparison Review
There are those important features that you would consider when buying a Polaris pool cleaner.
We have explored all of them in this segment explaining the features, and importance.
We have also highlighted the models that have each particular feature.
1. Cleaning orientation
Where do you want your Polaris to clean? Most robotic, as well as suction side cleaners, will do the pool floor and wall comfortably. However, a few will handle the waterline.
If your pool forms a stain on the sides, you need a pool cleaner that can clean the pool floor, walls as well as the waterline.
The battle here is between Polaris 9550 vs. 9650 as they both clean the waterline besides the floor and walls. They are also both suited for large pools up to 60ft.
The Polaris 9450 and 9350 can manage only the pool floor and walls. The cables are a little bit shorter making the duo ideal for mid-sized pools up to 50ft. in length.
importantHowever, if you want all-round cleaning, pick either the Polaris 9550 or 9650. Even though they are quite expensive, there’s a time when you will need a cleaner that can handle waterline.
2. Cleaning performance
This is the most important consideration when buying a Polaris pool cleaner because performance varies from one model to another.
When talking about cleaning performance, two things come to mind; brush system and vacuuming technology.
All the Polaris robotic pool vacuums use Vortex vacuuming technology except for the Polaris 8050 and 7240 that come with a cyclonic vacuuming technology.
When it comes to the brush system, there is a slight variation. The two new Polaris automatic cleaners come with a solid blade brush system that is more efficient in agitating dirt and scrubbing the tough stains. The solid blade brush is also durable.
The Polaris 9350 and 9450 have the old pleated brush which is still efficient but gets overwhelmed on tough algae and waterline stains.
verdictAs witnessed, Polaris solid blade brushes are the best, and that makes the 9550 and 9650iQ the winners here.
3. Canister management (Dirty Canister Indicator & Easy Clean Filter Canister)
Your pool cleaner will require frequent maintenance, especially during summer when it is in full swing use. The canister, in particular, will need to be emptied when full (preferably after cleaning sessions).
Only the Polaris 9550 and 9650iQ come with the Dirty Canister Indicator. At least this way, there is no guesswork or having to check the cleaner now and then only to find that it is all good. If you’d ask me, this is a critical feature.
In most of the Polaris 7240, 8050, 9350 and 9450 pool cleaner troubles, a full canister is mostly the culprit. Whether you find it not cleaning dirt, unable to climb walls or not staying firmly on the pool floor, check the canister first.
All the Polaris robotic cleaners come with an Easy Clean Filter Canister. This is a simple design that makes accessing the canister and emptying it a buzz without exposing you to the dirt. With a simple rinse, you are good to go; no worries of expensive replacement bags.
verdictAs far as the easy clean filter canister is concerned, it is a no-show. However, when you factor in the full bin indicator function, the winners are the Polaris 9550 and 9650iQ.
4. Navigation technology
Most robotic pool vacuums don’t move randomly like suction side pool cleaners. They have intelligent navigation systems which enable them to find their way around the pool and most importantly, for full pool coverage.
All four pool cleaners in our review have ActivMotion Sensor navigation technology. They can cover both small and large in-ground pools entirely without skipping some regions.
The exception is Polaris 8050 and 7240 which still move randomly, and that’s why there are complains of missed spots.
verdictAny Polaris model in the 9000 series is a worthy choice here. However, I would go for the latest model; either the 9550 or the 9650iQ as they come with the latest updated microprocessor and software. That means better data transfer and consequently, better coverage and ultimately, the best efficiency.
5. Drive system
Some robotic pool cleaners have tracks for locomotion while others have wheels.
Polaris 8050 and 7240 happen to be models with tracks while the rest of the cleaners have wheels. Tracks have better traction but require frequent replacement.
On the other hand, wheels have the offroad capability to climb all kinds of dirt on the pool floor. But then, it depends on the wheel system you have; either 2WD or 4WD.
The Polaris 9350 is the only model that comes with a 2WD system. It can climb dirt and traverse all kinds of pools without any problem. However, on walls and curved floors, it tends to get overwhelmed, and the cleaner noticeably takes longer to clean the entire pool.
As for the Polaris, 9450, 9550 and 9650, we have a 4WD system which makes the cleaners much faster. If you have a large pool, this should be a priority as you want a clean pool as soon as possible. They also traverse through the different pool floor types and climb the sides without any problem.
verdictMy best bet here is the Polaris 9550 or the 9650iQ depending on my budget and also if I need mobile app operation or not.
6. Programming
Just like most robotic appliances, Polaris robotic pool cleaners offer programmability.
If you want this kind of convenience, you have three options; Polaris 9450, 9550 or 9650iQ. These come with a 7-day programmable cleaning cycle. You can conveniently schedule the day and time you want it to clean, and that’s how you achieve a clean pool the entire summer.
The only difference I would say is in the actual setting; where do you program the pool cleaner. Here, the Polaris 9450 falls out of favor as it only has the head unit.
The battle is between Polaris 9650iQ vs. 9550 as they have a mobile app and IR remote respectively.
Polaris 9350 together with the 8050 and 7240 have to be operated manually. This is quite a hassle, but for the love of clean water, you have no option.
verdictIf you want the best pool cleaner here, pick Polaris 9650iQ as the app features give you more control over your cleaner. Scheduling cleaning sessions is easier and overall, the 9650 is more intelligent.
7. Remote control
Advanced pool cleaner can now be controlled remotely using physical IR remotes or even Smartphone apps. Here, the contest is between Polaris 9550 vs. 9650iQ which are two of the best robotic pool cleaners in the market right now.
The Polaris 9550 is the first model to feature any remote control protocol. Zodiac engineered a physical remote that can control the pool cleaner from a distance. You don’t have to walk over to the head unit. This remote also helps you direct the cleaner where there is dirt.
As for the Polaris 9650iQ, we have an entirely new approach that seeks to blend with a contemporary smart home. This cleaner comes with Wi-Fi connectivity that connects it to Smartphone apps and web interfaces. You can now monitor your pool cleaner right from your office on the iAquaLink Control mobile app. You can control the cleaner’s movement on an intuitive app interface with the joystick. The app also offers instant notifications during major events like when the cleaning session is complete or when the cleaner is out of coverage. Unfortunately, there are no pop-up notifications.
Polaris 9350, and 9450 as well as the 8050 and 7240 lack any remote control protocol. You have to rely on the head unit solely. While this might not be a bother to owners of small pools, it may be punitive for large pool owners to walk the distance in the scorching summer sun.
Of course, the old Polaris cleaners don’t stand a chance here. The battle is between Polaris 9650iQ vs. 9550.
verdictOur choice here is the Polaris 9650iQ because of the convenience of remote mobile app operation and monitoring. But we understand that a smart appliance may not be everyone’s cup of tea amid cases of connected devices being hacked. That said, the Polaris 9550 is still a great deal to some. Mind you, it has every other feature the Polaris 9650iQ boasts.
8. Easy Lift System
Robotic pool cleaners are bulky, especially when they have sucked up water.
All four Polaris pool cleaners come with the Easy Lift system.
The only difference comes with how the feature can be activated.
- In the Polaris 9350 and 9450, you can only use the button on the head unit.
- In the Polaris 9550 and Polaris 9650iQ, you can activate Easy Lift on the remote and the mobile app respectively, as well as the head unit.
- Note that the Polaris 8050 and 7240 don’t have Easy Lift.
verdictThe Polaris 9350, 9450, 9550 and 9650iQ are all great because they have an Easy Lift system. However, we feel the battle here is between Polaris 9550 vs. 9650iQ now that they have other Easy Lift control access apart from the head unit. It all goes down to your choice between a Wi-Fi pool cleaner (Polaris 9650iQ) or a remote-controlled robotic pool cleaner (Polaris 9550).
9. Cable length and tangling
Polaris pool cleaners come with different cables; both in terms of length and quality. It should be long enough to cover your entire pool and in the same token, long enough to reach your mains.
Besides cable length, tangling is also a concern, and the good thing is that the latest models have tangle-free cables.
So, how do Polaris robotic pool cleaner compare here?
The Polaris 9550 and 9650iQ come with a 70ft. Cable for the mains and a 60ft. Cable for the pool.
As for the Polaris 9350 and 9450, the cable length is shorter with 60ft. for power and 50ft. for the pool.
Here, the battle is between Polaris 9650iQ and 9550 vs. 9450 and 9350. I wouldn’t say that there is a better choice. As long as any length covers your pool, and you can still access the mains, you’re good to go. If I were to choose, however, I would go for a longer cord; you might consider a bigger pool.
As for cable tangling, we have Polaris robotic cleaners with tangle-reducing swivel while others are short of this feature.
The Polaris 9450, 9550 and 9650 will hardly tangle. Again, in the event of tangling, you can also easily entangle it.
As for the Polaris 9350, it frequently tangles especially when used in a large pool that takes all that 50 ft cord. We only recommend this model if you have a small pool otherwise, entangling it will be taking much of your precious time.
verdictHere, we feel the winners are Polaris 9450 and 9550. For the Polaris 9650, it ought to have come with a 360 swivel like the 2018 Dolphin Premier.
Who is winner in this battle?
We are coming to the close of this robotic pool cleaner comparison review.
So, which is the best Polaris modelr?
Well, the battle here is between the Polaris 9550 vs. 9650iQ.
- These two have the best features as far as cleaning performance is concerned.
- The new brush system ensures that all pool stains are scrubbed and sucked by the cleaner.
- They both have a 4WD system that enables the climb pool sides aggressively and tackle any pool floor shape.
As far as cleaning performance is concerned, it is a draw between Polaris 9650iQ vs. 9550.
When it comes to convenience, it is a split decision because one has Wi-Fi for mobile app operation but is much pricier whereas, on the other side, you have the same raw cleaning performance and a physical remote controller.
verdictPersonally, I am a smart home enthusiast so I would prefer the Polaris 9650. But if I have a few other things to sort out with the extra few hundred bucks, the cheaper Polaris 9550 is also worth considering.
Polaris 8050 vs. 7240
In the market, you will also find two old Polaris robotic pool cleaners; Polaris 7240 and 8050.
If you have to choose between these two, here’s what you need to know.
They all come with Cyclonic vacuuming technology, easy clean canister filter, tracks instead of wheels and a pleated brush system. The two lack ActivMotion sensors, and the Easy Lift system.
But what’s the difference between Polaris 7240 vs. 8050?
Well, the Polaris 8050 is superior and comes with a Premium Caddy and a longer pool cable.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does a Polaris robotic pool cleaner work?
2. Do Polaris robotic pool cleaners require a booster pump?
3. My Polaris robotic cleaner is no longer climbing walls
4. My cleaner is not effective anymore
5. My pool cleaner cable tangles too often
6. Do Polaris robotic pool cleaners qualify for rebates?
7. Is Polaris 9450 suitable for above ground pools?
8. Polaris 9450 vs 9550: which pool cleaner is better?
But the main advantage of the cleaner is a remote control, which the 9450 device does not support. That`s why Polaris 9550 is a better model.
9. Why did my Polaris 9350 pool cleaner stop working?
In case of any more serious problems, look for information in the user`s manual or contact Polaris users` service.
10. How do I connect my Polaris 9650iq to WiFi?
Choose your timezone, country, and city, your pool shape, and your home router. Enter your WiFi password and you`ll see the illuminating LED lights on the control unit. The WiFi connection is completed. You can find a more detailed instruction in the user`s manual.
11. Which Polaris pool cleaners clean waterline?
Wrapping Up
There you have it folks; a detailed Polaris 9350 vs. 9450 vs. 9550 vs. 9650iQ comparison review.
If you couldn’t be able to tell the difference, we’re glad that you are now all set to make the right decision on which is your best Polaris robotic pool cleaner.
We hope that this review will be resourceful in helping you get the best value for your money.
Hi! I’m Markus Robertson, and water is my passion.
Five years ago, I graduated from the University of California-Los Angeles and was going to become a professional marine biologist. However, my fate had other plans for me, and due to family problems, I had to find a more stable and well-paid job. I had only one wish for my job to be connected with water.
During this period of my life, I worked as a sales manager at Olympic Pool & Spa Supplies. The job helped me learn everything about swimming pools and related pool equipment, as well as how to choose the best option and what to pay attention to.
Having worked there for three years, I decided to start my own blog about pools, where I can tell people about the best new pool equipment models and share my knowledge and experience.
A marine biologist by education, I became a pool blogger by trade. Now I’m glad I can help the guests of my store and the visitors of my blog know a lot of exciting things about pools, their types, best pumps and filters, necessary equipment maintenance, and so on.
I welcome all people who want to choose a proper basin and the stuff to my blog! Hope you’ll find this information interesting and useful!
Hello! Thank you for the review. I liked Polaris 9650IQ, but it’s so similar to the cheaper Polaris F9550, except for the app control. Is it really useful or just a smart toy option?
Hi, Mark! Excellent question, thanks a lot! WiFi connection and app control don’t directly influence performance, but they will greatly contribute to the ease and comfort of cleaner usage. Polaris 9650IQ works as efficient as Polaris F9550 with remote control. However, with the IQ device, you can set a schedule, start and control cleaning from any place in the world (at work, for example). Besides, only Polaris 9650IQ will notify you of necessary replacements and maintenance. If you don’t need these options, grab the F9550.
Hi! I know many Dolphins robot cleaners work both in inground and above ground pools. Polaris makes its cleaners of inground reservoirs, but can I get a Polaris Sport unit for my 30ft above ground prism frame pool?
Hello, Rick! This is an excellent question; thank you so much! Indeed, the manufacturer states Polaris F Sport robotic cleaners work in inground pools only. This is connected with their drive systems that need hard surfaces and smooth slopes to climb walls and waterline. Polaris Sport series cannot be applied in the inflatable and simple frame above ground pools. However, our overview through the real users’ comments shows that the simplest F9350 and F9450 models that process the bottom and walls will do with more rigid prism frame pools. The main clue here is the presence of rigid walls in your pool and convenient floor-wall seams.
Hi! Great review, thanks. Do you have to replace tires for these Polaris Sport series pool cleaners? If so, how often should you do it?
Hello, Edward! Thank you for your question! Over time, tires wear out, so it’s better to change them to support proper driving and climbing results. The frequency of replacement depends on the frequency of your cleaner use. On average, the tire lasts for 1-2 years. You can look for an extra set here.
I have a 50 ft rectangular inground pool but with a built-in spa zone (hydromassage jets and LED lights). May they disturb cleaning and stop Polaris F9550 or 9450 from going there? Thanks!
Hello, Fredy! Thank you very much for your question! Polaris Sport F9450 and F9550 pool cleaners have the best navigation technologies available in Polaris robotic cleaners. Thus, they will easily bypass most pool obstacles like stairs, built-in lights, spa jets, etc. Your special pool zones will not disturb the cleaning, and both models will perform their work as thoroughly as possible.
Do you need to change scrubbers on Polaris F Sport pool cleaners or they are solid enough to last for years? Thanks.
Hello, Philip! Thank you very much for your question! Scrubbers in Polaris Sport pool cleaners are durable enough to serve you for years. As far as we know, the manufacturer doesn’t require any replacements here.
Is Polaris 9650iQ app compatible with Xiaomi? How can I check it beforehand? Thank you for assistance)
Hi, Nancy! Thank you very much for your question. Yes, Polaris 9650iQ cleaner is compatible with all phone models. The Polaris app is available on all platforms including popular Appstore and Google Play.
Can I make a power cable longer?
Hi, Jo! Thank you very much for your question! Unfortunately, the manufacturer does not offer such an option of cable length change.
Hello Marcus,
As a new pool owner this is a great review. I would like to know your thoughts with comparing the Polaris 9650iQ vs the Dolphin Premier / Sigma. Thank you
Hi, Russell Burnett! Thank you very much for your kind words and question! We’re glad to inform you that our team prepared a thorough comparison review on the major Polaris and Dolphin smart pool cleaners including Dolphin Premier and Polaris 9650IQ. You can learn more about these two models and compare them in the Dolphin vs Polaris – Total Comparison of Best-Selling Brands review. And we can also recommend our Dolphin Premier vs. Sigma vs. Nautilus CC Plus vs. Triton PS Plus vs. Triton PS article if you’re interested in Dolphin Sigma model as well. Hope you’ll find this info useful.
Hi Markus! Can you please explain the difference between pleated and solid-blade brushes? What type is better for tiles? Thanks!
Hello Keri! Thank you for your interest in Polaris vacuums. Each system consists of 2 rubber brushes with different orientations of bristles located in lines. Bristles in solid-blade brush occupy the whole width of the brush in one line and are firmer, while on a pleated brush, there are five to six bristles on each line. Solid-blade brush systems are more effective for dirt scrubbing and removal on tiles; they also will last longer without changing the brushes.