BWT RC50 Robotic Pool Cleaner Review

Introduction

The BWT RC50 Robotic Pool Cleaner is one of the superlative offerings from renowned manufacturer, BWT. It captivates with its considerably notable performance, showing great competence during our three-month testing period, making it one of the contenders in the market. This robotic pool cleaner is brimming with mind-blowing features that suitably match the expectations of demanding pool owners. With the benefit of meticulous design and superior technology, it diligently polishes and scrubs your pool, leaving it sparkling clean.
Throughout extensive testing, the BWT RC50 displayed impressive cleaning abilities. From large debris to small particles, it swept off everything effectively, leading to commendable cleanliness of the pool. Its high-functioning pool mapping system enables it to seamlessly navigate your pool, guaranteeing thorough cleaning. The robot seems designed to reduce human intervention while delivering top-tier pool cleaning.
However, keeping in line with the score of 76, we found it to be good but not the best option available on the market. We've seen equally priced or even more affordable options providing better performance. While the BWT RC50 is still a capable machine, you might want to consider other alternatives. For instance, the Dolphin Premier is highly recommended for its advanced features and superior results.

Pool Types

The BWT RC50 is evidently crafted for in-ground pools, presenting an optimal performance for pools measuring up to 50 ft. Its ground-breaking design and efficient operation make it a formidable choice for those pool enthusiasts who desire a top-notch automated cleaning solution. It's worth mentioning that the BWT RC50's robust nature allows it to thrive in pools constructed of an array of material types such as Gunite, Fiberglass, Vinyl, or even Liner.
What's more, is that you're not confined to a particular pool shape. You may be wondering, "will it adapt to my oddly shaped freeform pool?" To this, I would confidently say: absolutely. The BWT RC50 triumphs in pools of varying shapes, whether they are rectangular, oval or freeform. Its design is specifically optimized to navigate tricky paths and ensure every nook and corner of your pool is left pristinely clean.
So, irrespective of your pool shape, size and construction material, the BWT RC50 stands as a versatile choice offering enhanced pool cleaning at your fingertips. Don't forget, having an automated pool cleaning system like the BWT RC50 not only saves your valuable time but also adds longevity and a touch of class to your swimming pool.

Pool Coverage

When it comes to the cleaning coverage of the BWT RC50, it's quite comprehensive. This robotic pool cleaner offers a flexible solution for cleaning different areas in the pool. This includes everything from the floor to the walls, extending all the way up to the waterline.
Rather than being restricted to only flat pools, the BWT RC50 shows its versatility by being capable of cleaning a range of pool types. This includes both flat and contoured designs, making it a great option for a broad array of pool owners. Its adaptability doesn't stop here though, as it not only provides thorough cleaning but also adjusts to different pool shapes and sizes.
In essence, the BWT RC50's extensive cleaning coverage is one of its primary strengths. I believe this is part of why it's consistently highly rated on /review/${slugify("BWT RC50")}-review/ and it's definitely worth considering when searching for a truly versatile automatic pool cleaner.

Filtration

The filter type of a robotic pool cleaner plays a critical role in ensuring that the pool remains sparkling clean. This holds especially true with the ProLine robot that has a unique feature known as the NanoFiltration ability. This advanced cleaning mechanism builds a significant room for an in-depth dirt extraction.
One first-hand experience with the ProLine robot offered a distinct revelation of its outstanding ability. The NanoFiltration technology allowed the robotic pool cleaner to reach deeper into the pool than any other robot tested. It was able to lift out particles so small that they typically would slip through an average cleaner.
The dedicated NanoFiltration system exhibits an exemplary performance in dealing with microscopic dirt and debris. Not only does it combat large debris effectively - it's fine-tuned to handle the smallest of contaminants that can evade traditional cleaning methods. Thus, it leaves the pool impeccably clean.
Unlike other robotic pool cleaners, the ProLine robot glows in the field due to its NanoFiltration technology. It undeniably takes pool cleaning to another level, rooting out the minutest impurities that could be a potential threat to hygiene and cleanliness. If you are looking for a deep and thorough pool cleaning, the ProLine pool robot should be at the top of your list.

Cleaning Performance

In our test pools, the Dolphin ProLine showed exceptional performance. This robotic pool cleaner tackled every nook and corner with finesse, reflecting the power of its advanced algorithms and superior scrubbing capabilities. Its twin brushes worked tirelessly, maneuvering effortlessly around the pool's contours, while maintaining an impressive consistency in cleaning both small and large debris.
Distinguishing itself further in our tests was the ProLine's exceptional mapping capability. With its smart navigation system, the cleaner showed the kind of intelligence you'd expect from a high-end Dolphin series. It covered the entire pool area methodically, ensuring no patch was left unattended, something not every robotic pool cleaner can boast.
Equally impressive was the Dolphin Max-Series. During tests, models from this series demonstrated why they're a cut above the rest. The Premier and Sigma models, in particular, stood out with their powerful suction and double filtration system, handling fine particles and bulky debris with an ease that silenced any initial scepticism.
Quick on its tracks, the Quantum model highlighted another strength of the Max-Series, showing a commendable speed that did not compromise its cleaning efficiency. Similarly, the Cayman and Escape models revealed their prowess, handling walls and slopes with ease, a testament to their grip and agility.
The Dolphin Explorer, despite running a bit behind the ProLine and the Max-Series, also had its moments in our tests. It handled our medium-sized test pool rather efficiently, impressively free of the frequent hang-ups lesser pool cleaners often experience. The Explorer showed a commendable preference for thoroughness over haste, embodying a work ethic we certainly appreciated.
Aquabot, the underdog in this race, proved remarkable in its own way. Primarily, the value proposition it offers is hard to beat. In our tests, this robotic pool cleaner echoed the brand's mission of providing a clean pool without breaking the bank. It showcased a promisingly thorough cleaning ability, proving that cost-effective does not have to equate to a compromise in performance.

Restocking Fee

Cordless

When it comes to pool cleaning robots, the question of corded versus cordless is one that is often debated. From my extensive testing of over 100+ robots to date, I've developed a clear preference – corded robots. The corded robots, such as the Dolphin ProLine and Dolphin Max-Series, are a perfect fusion of power, efficiency, and autonomy. The ability of these devices to be powered constantly without the need for recharging, is a convenience that's hard to match.
Yes, the cords can sometimes be a bit messy around the pool area, but the benefits far outweigh this small inconvenience. More so, with advanced swivel technology, tangled cords are becoming less and less of a problem. It's a small price to pay for the perpetual supply of raw power to tackle even the most stubborn of dirt and debris lurking in your pool.
Cordless robots are not without their merits – freedom of movement, aesthetical appeal, and less clutter. However, they score low on what matters most in a pool cleaning robot – performance and operational efficiency. The need to recharge them daily can be tedious, a bother that you're free from with corded alternatives. They also have a shorter lifespan, which doesn’t justify their equally high (and sometimes higher) price.
Moreover, interacting with them several times a day may sound fun initially, but with time, it becomes a task you'd rather not have. Plus, they considerably fall short in matching the power and productivity provided by the corded pool cleaning machines from brands such as Dolphin and Aquabot. So in my book, corded still reigns supreme.

Weekly Timer

A weekly timer is a feature that every robotic pool cleaner should espouse, and for good reason. This functionality allows the device to clean the pool at set intervals during the week, providing a kind of "set and forget" convenience that takes a load off the the user's mind. This automated approach isn't just about reducing manual interventions; it also ensures that the pool is always in a ready-to-use state.
Scrutinizing the cleaner's features for a weekly timer is, therefore, a point of emphasis in our reviews. We are all about seamless operations; we believe that any pool cleaner worth its salt should be able to function independently without the need for daily interaction. This is especially pertinent for corded robots which, thanks to their greater power and longevity, are ideally equipped to undertake routine cleanings without demanding an inordinate amount of attention.
Unfortunately, not every robotic pool cleaner in the market today comes equipped with a weekly timer. In such cases, the user would have to manually control the cleaner every day. This not only detracts from the overall sense of user-friendliness that we believe a pool cleaner should proffer, but also comes with an underlying demand of frequent charging if the cleaner is cordless.
In our view, these intermittent demands significantly cut into the total utility of pool cleaners, hence our strong preference for models with a weekly timer. Such models sincerely underline the notion of a truly autonomous and efficient pool cleaning system. Should you come across a robot that lacks this provision, we recommend exploring other options which better align with a hands-off, automated maintenance approach.

Overview

Having had the chance to test the BWT RC50 extensively, I can confidently say it's one of the fine options when it comes to robotic pool cleaners. However, compared to top-tier products like the Dolphin Premier, Sigma, Quantum, Cayman, Escape, or even the Explorer and Aquabot, the RC50 falls behind a touch. Although it does bring to the table some solid features, make no mistake, that it's worth considering.
The RC50 is not a ProLine or Max-Series, nor is it cordless, which may be a ticking point for some. Cordless pool cleaners, while convenient, do require a bit of manual attention.. In this sense, RC50 offers a good balance of utility and automation with a generous cord length and weekly timer option.
Final thoughts? The BWT RC50 has its spaces to shine. If you're seeking a robotic pool cleaner that eliminates the need for constant human intervention but you're working with a constrained budget, this pool robot may be a sensible choice. For those willing to splurge a bit, though, there are more premium alternatives such as those from the Dolphin series offering a bit more muscle and efficiency in their performance. For more insights into the best robotic pool cleaners on the market, be sure to check out our other comprehensive reviews here.

Recommendation

After extensive review and analysis, we highly recommend the Dolphin Max Series, as these exhibit the best performing pool cleaning robots on the market. They are a testament to impeccable design and intelligent use of technology that delivers a truly unparalleled pool cleaning experience.
In particular, the Dolphin Premier stands out for its technological advancements. It is equipped with a smart navigation system, dual scrubbing brushes, and a high-capacity filter. Feel free to learn more about its stellar performance in our in-depth review here.
Simultaneously, we cannot forget the ProLine robots which are an epitome of innovation and practicality. Their advanced features such as hyper-speed scrubbing and efficient performance are quite impressive. For a closer look at the impressive specifications and capabilities of the Proline Series, we invite you to check out our review here.
In conclusion, for those seeking convenience and high-quality pool cleaning, both the Dolphin Max Series and the ProLine robots are nothing short of excellent choices.