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 2.8. The Polaris PCX 868 iQ leads on warranty and value. The Polaris PCX 868 iQ costs $340 less ($1,149 vs $1,489).
Hayward TigerShark QC
#37 in CordedFull review
The TigerShark with a quick 90-minute cycle, worth the small premium for most buyers.
Walmart $1,489$1,489
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 warranty (2-year warranty vs 1-year warranty) and value ($1,149 vs $1,489).
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 TigerShark QC |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.8/5 | 2.8/5 |
| Value 25% | 34 $1,149 | 23 $1,489 |
| Cleaning 25% | 85 Floor, walls and waterline | 85 Floor, walls and waterline |
| Navigation 15% | 50 navigation not published (neutral score used) | 35 Programmed pattern |
| Warranty 15% | 50 2-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
| Pool size 10% | 100 pools up to 50 ft long (about 1,250 sq ft) | 56 pools up to 800 sq ft |
| Features 10% | 100 4 of 4 | 0 0 of 2; no app control, caddy |
Specifications
| Polaris PCX 868 iQ | Hayward TigerShark QC | |
|---|---|---|
| Pool | ||
| Pool size (rated) | Up to 50 ft long | Up to 800 sq ft (74 m²), 40 ft long |
| Pool types | In-ground | In-ground |
| Surfaces | All in-ground surfaces | Gunite, vinyl, fiberglass, pebble |
| Cleaning | ||
| Cleans | Floor, walls and waterline | Floor, walls and waterline |
| Surface skimming | No | No |
| Filter | 4 L all-purpose canister, transparent lid | Cartridge filter |
| Filter capacity | 4 L | - |
| Power | ||
| Power | Corded, 60 ft cable | Corded, 55 ft cable |
| Run time | Longest cycle 2 h 30 min | Longest cycle 4 h |
| Swivel cable | Yes | - |
| Navigation & app | ||
| Navigation | - | Programmed pattern |
| App | Yes | No |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi | - |
| Scheduling | Yes | - |
| Retrieval | Easy Lift from the app or control box | - |
| Caddy included | Yes | No |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 22 lb (10 kg) | 21.5 lb (9.8 kg) |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year |
| Released | 2024-05 | 2023-12 |