Current official documentation plus credible independent hands-on or long-term testing that addresses real cleaning behavior.
Editorial standard
How we review pool robots
The standard is simple: every recommendation must be useful without the affiliate link. Evidence strength is visible, specifications are source-linked, and safety can overrule commercial potential.
01 — Non-negotiable
Publication gates
A model is not published as a buyable recommendation unless its official product page is current, its core specifications can be verified, unresolved specification conflicts are labeled, no applicable safety notice is open, and the direct manufacturer destination works.
✓Current productExact model and region confirmed.
✓EvidenceAt least one credible independent source for strong or good labels.
✓SafetyCPSC and manufacturer notices checked.
✓CommercialManufacturer programme and product eligibility verified before tracked links go live.
02 — Transparency
What the evidence labels mean
Useful independent testing exists, but may be older, limited to one pool or leave some model-year questions.
Official specifications are verified while the exact model's independent owner record continues to grow. These products are presented with clear fit checks.
03 — Fit before features
Decision framework
We do not publish a single universal score. A robot is evaluated against the job: pool size and geometry, surface compatibility, debris type, cleaning zones, filtration, realistic runtime, retrieval, maintenance, warranty and software reliability.
Manufacturer ratings are never presented as our rating. We do not copy customer reviews, invent test results or imply first-hand use where none occurred.
04 — Commercial firewall
Affiliate separation
Commission does not buy a rank, badge or positive verdict. Commercial links use a sponsored relationship label and follow a disclosure shown before the first link. Direct programmes open the manufacturer page; approved Amazon-based programmes are clearly labelled before they open a brand storefront.
Affiliate tracking is activated only after programme acceptance and a destination check. Where a programme does not provide a model-specific destination, we say so next to the link rather than implying that the exact listing is guaranteed. Read the full disclosure.
05 — Safety and evidence status
Current shortlist status
The current Aiper recommendation is the Scuba S1. The separate Aiper Elite Pro GS100 and Seagull Pro ZT6001 models are excluded because they are subject to CPSC recalls. Mammotion SPINO E1, Fanttik Aero X and Talosbo products can be added when comparable evidence and applicable commercial terms are confirmed.
CHASING Hydro 4 and iGarden M1-AI 90 carry Developing evidence labels while their exact-model owner records grow. Their current specifications and best-fit checks remain clearly identified, and product status is updated as additional evidence arrives.