Polaris PCX 868 iQ
#3 in CordedFull review
A mid-priced app-controlled Polaris for in-ground pools up to 50 ft.
Walmart $1,149$1,149
The Polaris PCX 868 iQ is the better robotic pool cleaner overall, rated 3.8 to 3.6. The Polaris PCX 868 iQ leads on features. The Polaris PCX 868 iQ costs $102.95 less ($1,149 vs $1,251.95).
Hayward R130
#14 in CordedFull review
Hayward’s newer, lighter robot for in-ground or above-ground pools up to 50 ft, with a weekly timer.
ePoolSupply $1,251.95$1,251.95
Prices were last checked October 24, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Polaris PCX 868 iQ for features (4 of 4 vs 2 of 4; no app control, caddy).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every corded robotic pool cleaner; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Polaris PCX 868 iQ | Hayward R130 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.8/5 | 3.6/5 |
| Value 25% | 34 $1,149 | 30 $1,252 |
| Cleaning 25% | 85 Floor, walls and waterline | 85 Floor, walls and waterline |
| Navigation 15% | 50 navigation not published (neutral score used) | 50 Smart navigation |
| Warranty 15% | 50 2-year warranty | 50 2-year warranty |
| Pool size 10% | 100 pools up to 50 ft long (about 1,250 sq ft) | 100 pools up to 50 ft long (about 1,250 sq ft) |
| Features 10% | 100 4 of 4 | 50 2 of 4; no app control, caddy |
Specifications
| Polaris PCX 868 iQ | Hayward R130 | |
|---|---|---|
| Pool | ||
| Pool size (rated) | Up to 50 ft long | Up to 50 ft long |
| Pool types | In-ground | In-ground and above-ground |
| Surfaces | All in-ground surfaces | Any pool surface |
| Max depth | - | 16.4 ft |
| Cleaning | ||
| Cleans | Floor, walls and waterline | Floor, walls and waterline |
| Surface skimming | No | No |
| Filter | 4 L all-purpose canister, transparent lid | Extra-large top-load basket with fine and ultra-fine panels |
| Filter capacity | 4 L | - |
| Power | ||
| Power | Corded, 60 ft cable | Corded |
| Run time | Longest cycle 2 h 30 min | - |
| Swivel cable | Yes | Yes |
| Navigation & app | ||
| Navigation | - | Smart navigation |
| App | Yes | No |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi | - |
| Scheduling | Yes | Yes |
| Retrieval | Easy Lift from the app or control box | - |
| Caddy included | Yes | No |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 22 lb (10 kg) | 16.5 lb (7.5 kg) |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
| Released | 2024-05 | 2025-11 |