When it comes to keeping your pool pristine and inviting, choosing the right pool cleaner can make all the difference.
Today, we pit two heavyweights against each other: the Smonet CR6 Pro, a robotic pool cleaner known for its advanced features and ease of use, versus the Zodiac G3, a suction-side cleaner that offers simplicity and a set-it-and-forget-it appeal.
Both promise to keep your pool clean, but they go about it in different ways. In this detailed comparison, we’ll break down their unboxing and setup, pool cleaning abilities, weekly maintenance, and overall swimming experience to help you determine which cleaner is the champion for your pool.
1. Comparing Unboxing and Setup
The Smonet CR6 Pro cordless pool vacuum comes in a box with a dry weight of 27 lbs. Setup is simple: plug it in to charge, remove the protective plastic, read the manual to select the correct settings, and then place it in the pool. The Smonet CR6 Pro has powerful suction. It channels debris toward the opening, depositing larger items into a basket through a flapper door. Anything that slips through the mesh is picked up by the secondary filter. It's easy to learn how to turn it on.
For the Zodiac G3, assembly involves attaching the 36-fin disc, foot pad, and bumper. These parts fit tightly, which can be frustrating. Once assembled, connect the hose, place it in the pool, and turn on the pump. Installation takes about 30 minutes, with a few adjustments needed for optimal cleaning patterns.
In terms of setup, the Smonet CR6 Pro scores points for its simplicity and the ability to adjust cleaning patterns with the press of a button. The Zodiac G3, while lighter than the CR6 Pro, requires more effort to set up, which isn't enough to win the first round.
2. Comparing Pool Cleaning Ability
The Smonet CR6 Pro pool cleaning robot is a powerhouse. It climbs walls effortlessly and even attempts to clean steps, though it struggles with the top step. It offers three cleaning modes: floor-only, wall-only, and all-cover. It also features a waterline cleaning mode, which requires an upgrade via the app. In all-cover mode, the CR6 Pro can clean your pool in just over an hour. Its aggressive rollers, extra-large suction port, and 80 gallons-per-minute flow rate provide a thorough clean.
The Zodiac G3 operates up to 12 hours a day while the pump runs. It may not catch everything on the first pass but eventually does. It occasionally gets stuck but usually frees itself within a day or two.
The Smonet CR6 Pro wins again. While the Zodiac G3 keeps the pool clean, it misses the waterline and stairs and can get tangled. Its main advantage is the set-it-and-forget-it aspect, eliminating the need to remove it for charging.
3. Comparing Weekly Maintenance and Filter Cleaning
The Smonet CR6 Pro has a 3.5L built-in basket, similar in capacity to the Zodiac G3’s main pump basket. With the Zodiac G3, you must stop the pump and remove the lid to access the basket. The Smonet CR6 Pro allows for easier maintenance without stopping the pool, although you do need to remove the robot from the pool to clean the basket.
Generally, pool owners clean them every three months. Continued use of a robotic pool cleaner results in cleaner main pool filters.
4. Comparing Swimming Experience
The Smonet CR6 Pro excels in this area. Suction-side cleaners like the Zodiac G3 have hoses that can be inconvenient when swimming. The Zodiac G3 is also somewhat noisy.
Depending on the mode, the Smonet CR6 Pro can be in and out of the pool in about two hours. If you don't want it in the way, you can easily remove it.
For most pool owners, choosing the Smonet CR6 Pro means no hoses, no noise, and pure enjoyment.
5. Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Smonet CR6 Pro and the Zodiac G3 offer unique advantages for maintaining a clean swimming pool,
but the Smonet CR6 Pro stands out as the clear winner across multiple categories. Its simple setup, superior cleaning performance, easier maintenance, and more enjoyable swimming experience make it a top choice for pool owners who want efficiency and convenience.
While the Zodiac G3 has its merits, particularly in its set-it-and-forget-it design and lighter build, it ultimately falls short against the Smonet CR6 Pro’s cutting-edge features and overall effectiveness.
Choose the Smonet CR6 Pro for a hassle-free and thorough pool cleaning experience.
