I tried the TALOSBO Pleco S1 robot for my above ground pool of about 50 m2, and after using it for a few weeks, I want to share my experience, highlighting the pros and cons of this device.
Personal experience and pros:
The first thing that struck me about the TALOSBO Pleco S1 is its ease of use. Just turn it on, immerse it in water and press a button to start the automatic cleaning cycle: it couldn't be easier! The 2.5-hour fast charge is a big plus; in a short time the robot is ready for use, which is perfect for those who, like me, want to keep their pool clean without long waits. With an autonomy of 80 minutes, it can cover the bottom of my pool in a single session, effectively collecting dust, sand and small leaves thanks to the 180 ��m filter and the double motor, which guarantees good suction power.
The wireless design is another aspect that I really appreciate: not having to manage cables that twist or get stuck is a relief, especially in an above ground pool where space may be limited. In addition, the robot is compatible with different surfaces (PVC, vinyl, concrete) and pool shapes, making it versatile for my rectangular tub. A feature that surprised me positively is the automatic return to the edge when the battery drops below 15%: this makes retrieving the robot simple and effortless, even if the pool does not have particularly convenient access.
Cleaning the filter is child's play: the basket is easily removed and rinsed with a garden hose in a few minutes. This is an important aspect for me, because I didn't want a device that required complex maintenance. After each use, the pool water appears visibly clearer, and the robot is able to remove even the finest dirt, improving the swimming experience.
Cons:
Despite the many positives, there are some limitations. The TALOSBO Pleco S1 is designed primarily for bottom cleaning, so it doesn't climb walls or the water line. For my low-walled above ground pool, this wasn't a big problem, but if you have a tub with high walls or you want complete cleaning of even vertical surfaces, you may need to integrate with another device or manual cleaning. In addition, I noticed that on surfaces that are not perfectly flat, the robot may encounter some difficulties: in a corner of my pool, where there is a slight slope, it tends to freeze or go back, failing to completely cover that area. This limit has also been confirmed by some online reviews, where it is recommended to use it in flat bottom pools.
I think it happens because of the very small wheels.
Another aspect to consider is that the battery life of 80 minutes may not be sufficient for larger pools or for particularly intense cleaning cycles. Even if it is suitable for my pool, for pools close to the 80 m2 limit, a second cycle may be necessary. Finally, the robot does not have smart features such as app control or programming, which could be a disadvantage for those looking for a more technological device.
Conclusion:
The TALOSBO Pleco S1 is an excellent choice for those who have a medium-small above ground pool and are looking for a wireless robot, easy to use and with a good bottom cleaning capacity. Fast charging, adequate battery life and practical design make it a reliable ally for keeping water clean with minimum effort. However, it is not ideal for pools with uneven bottoms or for those who want a complete cleaning of walls and water line. If your goal is to simplify the maintenance of the pool floor without spending a fortune, this robot is a valid option, but carefully evaluate the characteristics of your pool before buying.
Final rating: 4/5 stars �� effective and practical for flat-bottomed above ground pools, but with some limitations for more complex configurations.