Suction-side usually connects with long, bulky suction hoses to skimmer of pool. Some are top skimmers or bottom-only cleaners.

These are usually the least expensive and least powerful cleaners.

Usually used in above-ground pools, which ironically have weaker main
filters, with less suction.

When in use they siphon suction from main filter, requiring more main filer use and thus more maintenance.

Pressure Side Cleaners:

Pressure Side without Booster Pump pumps water back into pool under pressure using out lines of main filter system. More expensive than suction-side, but less expensive than pressure-side with booster pump.

Pressure Side with Booster Pump pumps water back into pool under pressure, through unit. Most pressure-side cleaners have external mesh-type bags.  Require constant inspection and maintenance.

Some cost as much as robotic cleaners.

Robotic or Independent are fully self-contained requiring no installation, without hoses, suction lines or booster pumps. (Technically not robotic, meaning having a computer guidance system, there are a number of independent cleaners of the mechanics.

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