Cordless robotic pool cleaners are rapidly becoming the go-to solution for effortless pool maintenance. Among Polaris’ premium offerings, the Polaris Freedom Plus vs Polaris Freedom stand out as two high-performance, hassle-free options. While both models are designed for in-ground pools and support iAquaLink® smart control, the Freedom Plus brings several advanced upgrades. In this detailed comparison, we’ll evaluate them across six core areas to help you choose the better cordless cleaner for your pool.
Contents
Differences Between Polaris Freedom Plus vs Polaris Freedom
Below is a summary of the specifications:
Design Comparison
The Polaris Freedom Plus and Polaris Freedom are both designed for in-ground and above-ground pools up to 50 feet in length. However, Polaris more actively markets the Freedom Plus for larger and more complex pool designs, due to its slightly more advanced onboard systems and retrieval features.
Being cordless, neither model has a cable or requires an anti-tangle swivel. Both utilize Polaris’ magnetic Easy-Charge Station, eliminating the hassle of managing long cords. Charging is done outside the pool via a quick-connect dock, providing convenience and reducing clutter.
In terms of weight, the Freedom Plus comes in slightly lighter at around 18 lb, compared to the 20 lb Freedom. Both have ergonomic handles for easy removal, but the Freedom Plus includes a Tap-to-Lift™ feature that allows the robot to rise to the waterline on command, making it more user-friendly.
Winner: Polaris Freedom Plus
With its Tap-to-Lift feature, slightly lighter build, and better handling for large pools, the Freedom Plus wins the design category.
Cleaning Performance Comparison
Both models offer floor, wall, and waterline coverage using dual Double-Helix PVA brushes. These brushes provide excellent scrubbing power across all common pool surfaces and are powered by active brush motors for enhanced cleaning.
The Freedom Plus and Freedom both use a large 4-liter transparent debris canister, but the Plus supports dual-layer filtration with ultra-fine and fine debris separation. This gives it an edge in handling finer particles like sand, silt, and pollen, especially in dusty environments.
Each cleaner supports up to 2.5 hours of runtime and features SmartCycle™ technology, which adapts cleaning patterns based on pool size and debris levels. However, the Freedom Plus is better optimized with sensor mapping for improved coverage efficiency.
The suction rate is another key difference. The Freedom Plus reaches up to 3,000 GPH, while the standard Freedom operates closer to 2,800 GPH. While both are powerful, the higher rate ensures more efficient debris pickup in larger pools.
Winner: Polaris Freedom Plus
With better filtration, higher suction, and more advanced pathing, the Freedom Plus delivers superior cleaning performance overall.
Feature Comparison
The Freedom Plus stands out with its full suite of smart and user-centric features. In addition to iAquaLink® app compatibility, it includes a LiFi remote, allowing direct user commands from poolside. One of its biggest advantages is the Tap-to-Lift™ system, enabling users to summon the cleaner to the wall for easy retrieval—a huge convenience upgrade.
The original Freedom also supports the iAquaLink® app, allowing users to set cleaning modes and monitor battery life remotely. However, it lacks remote control and retrieval assist features.
Both models support automatic self-parking, and both come with IPX8 waterproofing, making them suitable for full submersion. They also share the same magnetic charging station, which recharges the lithium-ion battery in approximately 4–5 hours.
Winner: Polaris Freedom Plus
Thanks to the Tap-to-Lift™, LiFi remote, and advanced sensor integration, the Freedom Plus clearly takes the lead in features and smart control.
Quick Rundown Of Polaris Freedom Plus
Quick Rundown Of Polaris Freedom
Conclusion
Choose Polaris Freedom if you’re looking for a reliable, budget-friendly cordless cleaner that covers all pool surfaces and includes app-based control. It’s ideal for small to medium pools where basic automation and hands-off cleaning are sufficient.
Choose Polaris Freedom Plus if you prefer cutting-edge features, including remote control, tap-assisted retrieval, dual-filtration, and better suction power. It’s the better fit for larger or debris-prone pools, and users who want smart convenience.
Overall Winner: Polaris Freedom Plus
With its enhanced suction, smarter navigation, remote control capabilities, and easier retrieval, the Polaris Freedom Plus is the more advanced and versatile cordless pool cleaner for modern pool owners.